Foundations of Joy: A 5-Pillar Approach to Depression
Jared C. Pistoia, ND
A
Bridge Between Worlds
Agnes Daddona, MA, Psychic Medium Counselor
Thermography: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Breast Health and Beyond
April Beaman, RDH, CTT
•Reduce
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Our mission is to provide valuable insight, information, and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
PUBLISHER/OWNER
Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Diane@naturalnutmeg.com
DIR. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/OWNER
Christopher Urso Curso@naturalnutmeg.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lori Hubbard lori@naturalnutmeg.com
DESIGN DIRECTOR Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Colleen Lee colleen@naturalnutmeg.com
ADVISORY BOARD
Frank Aieta, ND
Adam Breiner, ND
Mark Breiner, DDS
Deanna M. Cherrone, MD
Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N.
DISTRIBUTION
Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg. FFC—Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC
In keeping with our concern for the environment, Essential Naples is proudly printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.
Are you a wellness entrepreneur ready to break through to new levels of success? Imagine achieving not only business growth but personal well-being, balance, and resilience that drives sustainable success. As a holistic high-performance coach, I specialize in guiding wellness-focused leaders like you to maximize both business potential and personal vitality.
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•business growth & success
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• fulfillment of your purpose
• increased fulfillment, happiness & health for yourself!
Take the first step toward an extraordinary 2025 by booking your complimentary consult: longviewvitality.com/contact
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Holistic High Performance Coach
christine@whatsyourlongview.com
Feature
Ican’t64 The Naturopathic Principle of Treating the Cause By Dr. Michael Kane, ND
52 Embrace a Food-First Approach During Menopause By Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM
56 Foundations of Joy: A 5-Pillar Approach to Depression By Dr. Jared C. Pistoia, ND 58 Thermography: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Breast Health and Beyond By April Beaman, RDH, CTT
60 NAFLD: The Silent Killer By Kristina Mozzicato, LMT, BCTMB
62 Rolfing®: Finding Balance and Harmony Within By Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR
54 A Bridge Between Worlds By Agnes Daddona, MA, Psychic Medium Counselor
believe we’re almost at the end of 2024— where does the time go? I feel we are on the edge of a huge shift in the holistic and spiritual movement. I am seeing practitioners’ businesses grow by leaps and bounds this year, and we can’t keep magazines on the stands! This 10BEST issue, in my opinion, is the best we’ve ever produced! I said this last year and the year before, but I’m eating my words once again because this year is even better. We have more first-time winners than ever before, and many of them have just started their holistic businesses. Many practitioners are telling me they are booked out for months as more and more people are looking for holistic alternatives. Anything is possible if you truly believe it can be!
We are honored to showcase our seventh annual 2024 10BEST winners and proud to be the ONLY reader-nominated awards exclusively for the holistic business community in Connecticut. Not only does this issue include pages dedicated to our award winners, we also have over one hundred practitioners and businesses listed in our Community Resources section. We hope you use this issue as a resource for all of 2025.
We had our second 10BEST Awards Gala on October 24, and it was a fantastic night! We had an amazing time celebrating all our award winners at Farmington Gardens, with Studio 54 costumes, champagne, delicious food, and a DJ and dancing. You can check out the fun pictures on page 4 and on our website.
We hope this issue inspires you to reach out to these amazing people and support them. Our Connecticut holistic practitioners are extremely dedicated to helping their local communities and all of our winners are overwhelmingly grateful to you—our reader—for helping to bring more awareness to all the amazing natural and eco-friendly choices we have in this great state.
Wishing you health and happiness,
Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Publisher & Owner, ELM Publishing
Let Love Win: Reclaim Your Inner Power
Electionweek brought a tidal wave of heightened emotions, felt deeply by just about everyone. People experienced this energetic surge in vastly different ways, revealing just how divided even the holistic community is. On one side, many embraced the great awakening, sensing a profound transformation underway, while others descended into victimhood and despair, gripped by fear for the future. Watching this unfold highlighted for me the deep shadow work that humanity is collectively being called to face right now. This shadow work is essential if we are to align with the new frequencies and step into a higher vibration, and I’m committed to holding space for those struggling with these heavier energies.
This is a turning point for humanity, one that challenges each person to choose whether to expand, learn, and grow or to remain in suffering, creating a personal reality defined by limitations and pain. In a world where fear has long been a tool to keep us anchored in the past, it is more important than ever to take control of our own lives and create transformation from within. Only when we change ourselves can we become the ripple effect we often talk about—a beacon of positivity and love that spreads through every interaction and every moment. Hate will never produce love. The more we allow ourselves to be pulled down into the fear-driven narratives perpetuated by social media, news outlets, and stories engineered to create division, the further we drift from our own sovereignty. The truth is that each of us is profoundly powerful, whether we realize it or not. I invite you to visit youtube.com/watch?v=yrSlZjo4ykk to explore this journey of reclaiming your inner power and rising above the noise, cultivating a life free from the limiting beliefs and fears that often cloud our path.
I’ve been given the gift of transformation, and I honor it every day. I approach life with grace, allowing each moment to teach me, to show me contrast, and to reveal the opportunities for growth within it. Sometimes, I respond from an old, conditioned mindset that still needs healing, and sometimes, it’s effortless—I simply say, “Thank you.” All experiences, when seen neutrally, await our response and serve as tools for our evolution.
Remember, we are all spiritual beings navigating a human experience. Every aspect of life unfolds exactly as it’s meant to, shaped by our individual thoughts, feelings, and actions. If your current reality doesn’t align with what you want, the answer lies within. Start creating change from the inside out. I can tell you from experience that the deeper you go within, the better you feel—and this shift has everything to do with your internal landscape, not the external circumstances around you.
Kelly McCarthy, owner of BeyondWordsNWisdom in Winsted, CT, is a SoulReader, Energy Guide, and Intuitive Graphic Artist. She unlocks stagnant energies, reflecting others’ true selves. Her ancestral wisdom and intuitive skills expand your awareness, opening your heart and mind to life’s possibilities, personally and professionally. Kelly o ers in-person and remote opportunities to work together. Visit www.beyondwordsnwisdom.com, email Kelly at kelly@beyondwordsnwisdom.com, or call/text 860.806.9684.
Art of Releasing— Online Grand Opening!
Get started with aFREE 20-minute introductory consultation or enjoyHALF OFFyour first individual session!
Are you feeling emotionally stuck or seeking new tools to hold space more effectively for your clients? Experience the transformative practice ofreleasing,online sessions available now.
Releasing is a gentle yet powerful method to let go of negative emotions, limiting beliefs, and mental patterns that hinder inner peace and success. It allows you to consciously release stress, fear, anxiety, and other unwanted emotions, creating emotional freedom and mental clarity. At its essence, releasing is based on understanding that emotions and thoughts are temporary and that we can consciously let them go when we are ready and willing.
The practice of releasing teaches you to:
•Recognize when you’re holding onto emotions, sensations, or thoughts.
•Accept without judgment.
•Let go of emotions, sensations, or thoughts so they no longer control your thinking and actions.
The process of releasing fosters a profound sense of calm, heightened focus, improved relationships, and enhanced overall well-being.
Kristin Mozeiko, DMA, m.AmSTAT is a certified Releasing coach and an experienced Alexander Technique teacher. In each session, she guides you through deep somatic practices to maintain a sense of mind-body unity throughout the process. Similar to the Alexander Technique, once you learn the basics of Releasing, you can begin applying it immediately in your life. Join her newsletter and stay connected! For inquiries or to book a session, contact ArtofReleasing@gmail.com and visit ArtofReleasing.com.
Dental Professionals: Are You Using Patients’ Health History and Exam to Improve Their Overall Health?
How many health histories have you collected, and what exams have you performed in your professional career? Every health history you obtain and every exam you perform contains unique cues to the current state of the systemic health of your patient.
But how many times do we look at that information merely to get to “doing” some dentistry? However, when we fully tune in to our patients’ health profiles in their health history and exams, we ascend from merely being a dental technologist to the realm of healer.
Let’s look at an example: Your patient, a 40-plus-year-old adult male, notes on his health history that he has been diagnosed with gastric reflux and high blood pressure for which he takes the prescription meds: omeprazole and lisinopril. Being a perceptive oral-systemic dentist, you ask your first question: “Have you ever been told you snore?” Your patient looks back at you, astonished, and responds, “Yes.” You then explain the relationship between gastric reflux, high blood pressure, and the potential cause of those conditions resulting from an obstructed airway. You confirm your explanation via your intraoral exam, which reveals a high vaulted palate, enlarged tonsils, flaccid distended uvula, significant occlusal and incisal wear with perimolysis lesions on the cusp tips of the lower molars, significant areas of gingival recession, and lateral tongue border scalloping. You are now poised to change your patient’s overall health and increase their “health span.”
Now, even though as dentists or hygienists we can only assess our patients’ condition by putting together the health history and exam clues, we may be able to help save this patient’s life by referring him to a sleep medicine physician and relieve him from dependence upon prescription medications.
Kevin H. Norige, DMD, is the founder and chief dentist at South Windsor Smiles, a private dental practice that focuses on oral health as part of the whole-body system. For 35 years, he has worked with patients to achieve healthy mouths and live healthier lives. Call 860.288.2111 or visit SouthWindsorSmiles.com. See ad on page 75 >
Listens, takes time, finds ou answers.
Disco ers the root cause of symptoms
Uses detailed testing, not guessing Provides safe, all-natural solutions.
Voted 10BEST Na uropathic Ph sicians
Holistic Therapies For Better Health
Rebalance your Mind, Body, and Spirit
Your destination for Conscious Living and Energy Resource Center Offering a wide array of physical, mindfulness, and spiritual holistic therapies, we have the perfect treatment for you. Join us for a personal or group session.
Valeria Da Silva, Master Esthetician and Owner, Naturezza Wax and Spa
I’mValeria Da Silva, Master Esthetician and owner of Naturezza Wax and Spa in Unionville, CT. At Naturezza Wax and Spa, we understand the importance of healthy and radiant skin. We provide top-notch organic skin care solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you are seeking a deep cleansing facial, a revitalizing peel, or a nourishing hydration treatment, we will ensure your skin is pampered and restored to its natural glow.
I developed my passion for esthetics at a very early age. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, I loved watching my grandmother focus on eating natural foods and using homegrown herbs for spice. Grama would often make her “magic” chicken and beef broths full of collagen, and I was always intrigued by how it could help people to look and feel better.
I have certifications from many top skin care companies. I am well-versed in treating all skin types and conditions and an expert in the most advanced skin-care techniques on the market today: microdermabrasion, hydrafacial, light therapy, full body waxing, brow shaping artistry, peels, anti-aging, acne, and hyperpigmentation treatment. I served as the Medical Aesthetician for esteemed plastic surgeon Dr. Paula Moynahan in Middlebury, CT. I have worked for European Wax Center as a lead waxer and trainer for 10 years in New Jersey, and I have also served as an Educator for the Esthetics Program at Paul Mitchell School in North Haven, CT.
I have over seventeen years of experience in the esthetics industry and regularly attend the annual International Skin Congress to stay current on the best treatments around the world.
At Naturezza Wax and Spa, we specialize in the art of waxing. Unwanted hair is a thing of the past as we utilize the finest techniques and highest quality waxes to deliver exceptional results. From silky smooth legs to perfectly shaped eyebrows, we strive to make your waxing experience as comfortable and effective as possible.
When treating clients, I consider the skin’s connection to the entire body. It’s important to understand that the skin is the largest organ in the body and needs care. I am passionate about my career and helping clients achieve their goals. My philosophy is that through proper daily care, you can achieve healthy, beautiful skin. I look forward to meeting you!
Many couples find the journey to conceive painfully difficult. What do you do when all you want is to hold a baby with your eyes and your partner’s smile, but all roads seem to be closed? You push on and keep trying, and trying, and trying, but it begins to feel hopeless.
I found myself in this exact scenario: confused, angry, and depressed, with little guidance from the mainstream medical world. When we were told our (because this is a team sport) only option was one of the most extreme procedures in reproductive medicine, we set out to prove them wrong. And we did.
After the way I was spoken to and was left feeling more defeated than reassured at the advanced reproductive therapy (ART) appointment, I knew I wanted to focus my practice on fertility. My struggle to conceive exposed a side of medicine I wish didn’t exist—it was unsettling and scary. This experience instilled in me a determination to offer compassion, unrelenting investigative work, and support to women and men unable to “easily” have a baby of their own.
Hence, the birthing of Fertility Oasis. For many, fixes like correcting nutrient deficiencies or stopping extensive NSAID use can be a miracle when told you have “unexplained infertility.” These are underlying causes of infertility and are rarely investigated or discussed in the ART world.
Hope is something we all need, and that’s what I strive to give my patients. I do my best to offer my patients not only someone who has their back but a doctor who will surmount the difficult task of finding the reason they are not able to have the baby of their dreams. I am absolutely overjoyed when patients message me that beautiful sentence: “I have a positive pregnancy test!”
And even more so when I get a baby picture sent to me.
Dr. Nicole Kerr, ND, LAc • Fertility Oasis 33 N Main St Suite D, Wallingford CT • 203.265.0459 • fertilityoasis.com
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200 The Sacred Journey
Theword “healing” gets thrown around a lot these days— Energy Healing, Sound Healing, Shamanic Healing, Color Healing, Remote Healing, Universal Healing, and too many others to name. Each has its own gifts and audience. Yet all healing modalities ask the same of the receiver—something I call the “secret sauce.” After trust and respect are established, regardless of modality and tools being used, it is this “secret sauce” that determines the outcome of the session. It’s such a simple formula! Open-hearted receptivity combined with a belief in unlimited possibility are all that are required for a positive outcome in any healing session. It’s essential that there can be no doubt nor limiting thoughts or expectations. Healing may manifest in unexpected ways and should be embraced with deep gratitude, in whatever way it may appear!
Receptivity and possibility—the “secret sauce” in healing.
I offer shamanic journeying and energy practices, sacred sound and crystal/ stone healing, hypnotherapy, past-life regression, cord-cutting, soul retrieval, extraction, spirit detachment, house clearings and blessings, CT Justice of the Peace services, and shamanically inspired yoga. I also lead monthly study groups, children’s events, and shamanism and wellness retreats in Costa Rica, Belize, Sedona, Santa Fe/Taos, Mt. Shasta, and other sacred sites throughout the U.S.
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200 • The Sacred Journey • Burlington, CT 860.675.9706 • jsgermaine@aol.com • thesacredjourney.biz
Asa naturopathic physicia, I provide innovative treatments for neurological conditions such as ADD, stroke, Lyme disease, and even long COVID. I have worked for over 20 years to become a leader in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and was the first private practitioner to offer HBOT in Connecticut. I have trained under industry experts, including Dr. Richard Neubauer, a renowned name in hyperbaric medicine, and Dr. Margaret Ayers, a neurofeedback pioneer.
I like to take a versatile approach with neurofield therapy and use a targeted method to help the brain “rewire” itself. This technique integrates transcranial magnetic and electrical stimulation with tailored neurofeedback protocols. In addition, I have advanced training in TBIs (traumatic brain injury), including a protocol that combines PRP (platelet-rich plasma) with hyperbaric oxygen for brain injuries and cognitive enhancement.
To detect pathologies and toxicities, I use advanced energetic diagnostic techniques and employ biomagnetism and frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM) to restore health naturally. In addition, we have introduced TruDose Regenerative Therapy to the Tri-State area, which unleashes your body’s natural healing abilities. TruDose has helped thousands of people suffering from everything from Autism to Lyme Disease and many other conditions. Be sure to check out our website wholebodymed.com to learn more about these amazing therapies, hear from our patients, and much more.
I strive to make my holistic approach to healing go beyond physical treatments as we address the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of illnesses, too. By tailoring unique pathways to health for each patient, I will assist you in creating a balanced lifestyle. It is my passion to help people attain their highest level of health.
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND Whole Body Health Center Fairfield, CT
203.371.8258
info@wholebodymed.com wholebodymed.com
Monica Benco, D-TCM, Mending Point Acupuncture & Wellness
Iama doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and owner of Mending Point Acupuncture & Wellness in the heart of Old Wethersfield. I am also a licensed acupuncturist and trained Chinese herbalist. I earned my doctorate at the University of Bridgeport in 2020.
In my practice, I specialize in fertility, prenatal, and postpartum health. My doctorate education in TCM has allowed me to gain additional experience in Chinese herbalism and integrative medicine, which most licensed acupuncturists do not receive. In addition, I have obtained diplomatic status from the NCCAOM, which is the governing body of TCM in the US. I am also on the faculty at the Acupuncture Institute at the University of Bridgeport, where I teach classes and supervise the student clinic. I regularly receive acupuncture and am always in awe of how powerful the medicine is.
I am passionate about what I do because I see such a huge gap between the needs of my patients and the care they receive from traditional medicine in this country. As a practitioner, what stands out to me most is when my patients say, “I feel like myself again.” Chinese Medicine is a beautiful system that recognizes each part of a person: mind, body, and spirit. I am proud to be able to reach my patients on these levels and help them regain their whole selves.
Monica Benco, D-TCM • Mending Point Acupuncture & Wellness 137 Main St, Old Wethersfield, CT • 860.466.0665 mendingpointacupuncture.com
Dr. Sean Altman, Whole-Body Health Center
As a Functional Medicine Doctor specializing in Orthopedic Medicine, I provide an integrated, patient-centered approach to treating a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders and chronic pain conditions. My practice addresses diagnoses such as TMJ disorder, cervical spine issues, migraines, joint instability, lumbar radiculopathy, arthritis, tendon injuries, and other chronic and acute musculoskeletal concerns.
I begin each patient’s treatment with a comprehensive assessment, often using Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging in the office to examine alignment issues across the jaw, spine, and other areas. Based on these findings, I craft a personalized plan incorporating manual therapy, corrective exercises, postural training, and advanced modalities like Frequency-Specific Microcurrent (FSM), which promotes cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances nervous system function. FSM, in particular, is instrumental in reducing pain, improving joint stability, and supporting structural healing. Through this integrated approach, I work to address the root causes of musculoskeletal conditions, helping patients achieve greater mobility, reduce pain, improve sleep quality, and achieve long-term functional improvements. Whether working with athletes, individuals recovering from injuries, or those managing chronic pain, my goal is to empower patients toward natural, sustainable healing and enhanced overall wellness.
I offer a free fifteen-minute telephone consultation to provide insight into your treatment with my integrated approach. Visit wholebodymed.com to schedule an appointment, or call 203.371.8258, ext. 2.
Dr. Sean Altman • Whole-Body Health Center • Fairfield, CT 203.371.8258 • info@wholebodymed.com • wholebodymed.com
Erika Dworkin, BCHN
(Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®)
In1970, my father, Michael Dworkin, PD, CCN, a Connecticut licensed clinical nutritionist with a doctorate in pharmacy, founded the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe, which became a highly respected clinical nutrition practice.
In my early twenties, he diagnosed me with severe candidiasis, a fungal systemic overgrowth that developed from stress and multiple rounds of antibiotics prescribed throughout my childhood for sinus infections. Although I appeared healthy, I suffered from many debilitating ailments. His therapeutic regimen of nutritional supplements and dietary modifications turned my life around.
In 2009, six years after my husband died, I felt called to return to Connecticut to run the Shoppe and help our world heal. This was even as I was experiencing my own premature midlife hurricane of crippling hot flashes, night sweats, slowed metabolism, weight gain, self-doubt, exhaustion, reduced libido, anxiety, depression, and cerebral challenges. After operating the Shoppe for twelve years, I closed it in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, I can see the map of my midlife path and realize I am incredibly fortunate to have emerged whole after many adversities, including job losses, unexpected career changes, and the deaths of my parents, two key employees, and two fur babies. My spiritual journey has brought me to my current world of self-realization and unlimited possibilities. After traveling these very bumpy roads, I am grateful for the vision to guide you, your family, and your pups on your wellness paths. Please connect with me anytime for an introductory wellness assessment, personalized, comprehensive nutrition and lifestyle consultations, emailed supplements, recommendations, or practitioner referrals. I look forward to supporting you on your wellness journey!
Text NNM 10BEST to 202.270.5612 for your FREE Mini Wellness Assessment. Just a few available each month!
Erika Dworkin, BCHN (Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®)
Dietary Supplements Specialist
Intuitive Wellness Guide
Wethersfield
O ce Hours by Request 860.603.3069
VitathenaWellness.com
Dr. Courtney Holmes, DNP, APRN Milford Med Spa | Holistic Healing Partners, LLC
As a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner, I have over 20 years of experience caring for folks 18 to 108 years of age of all genders, shapes, and sizes in medical aesthetics, geriatrics, primary care, wound care, and LGBTQ+ mental health. As owner and medical director of Milford Med Spa, I live out my passion for providing whole-person care that integrates a wide variety of modalities so you “look natural, feel beautiful,” inside and out. Services span from medical weight loss (prescription semaglutide, tripeptide, Contrave), bioidentical hormone therapy (testosterone, estrogen, progesterone), Botox and lip filler, to grief recovery method sessions, acupuncture, and genderaffirming nonsurgical aesthetic treatments to enhance masculine or feminine features.
Nothing makes me happier than sharing my lived experience and professional skillset to help others feel more comfortable in their own skin, body, mind, and spirit. I am fueled by personal reasons to elevate the lives of others beyond the struggles that I had to face to feel well and thrive. I have personally struggled with my weight for many years, am currently living the perimenopause journey (yay!), identify as pansexual, and have experienced the difficulty of finding a transgender-affirming healthcare provider for my loved ones. I have done the research and walked the walk myself and am very passionate and motivated to provide the highest quality, cutting edge, proven services for these health concerns for everyone! I believe that treatment plans work best when pulled from across all known bodies of knowledge and skill sets, from Western Medicine to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Instead of isolating to only traditional approaches, I pursue continuing education across a wide variety of non-traditional methods to bring the best options to our clients.
My private practice of ten nurses and a grief recovery specialist is also supportive of our community in ways that most other medical practices and holistic businesses are not. Over the past few years, we have intentionally supported local and national organizations that reflect the core values we strive to uphold in order to promote health across the population of our country, including New Haven Pride Center, Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, Planned Parenthood, The Reach Fund of CT, The Cure Starts Now, United Way, and the Boys and Girls Club of Milford, among others.
Courtney Holmes,
DNP, APRN, Medical Director, Injector, Nurse Practitioner Milford Med Spa | Holistic Healing Partners, LLC
99 Cherry Street, Suite F, Milford, CT
Phone: 203.701.6161
Fax: 203.909.6115
milfordmedspa.com holistichealingpartners.com
Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT, Whole Body Dentistry
Delivering high-quality dentistry is undoubtedly one of my goals; however, what I do goes far beyond that. I practice whole-body dentistry. This means I recognize that you cannot have a truly healthy mouth without a healthy body, and you cannot have true health without a healthy mouth. Every tooth and surrounding structure energetically relate to different organs, tissues, and vertebrae. Thus, having metals in the mouth, root canals, cavitations, or reactive materials may all cause health problems while—surprisingly—feeling no effect in the mouth. Conversely, a problem in an organ may manifest as pain or a problem in the mouth.
With the help of energetic testing, classical homeopathy, and excellent conservative nonmetal dentistry, most patients notice a substantial improvement in their oral and overall health. With decades of experience and as a pioneer in holistic dentistry, I would only recommend what I would do for my wife, children, and grandchildren. Whole-body dentistry is the way to go for a truly holistic approach!
Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT
Whole Body Dentistry • Fairfield, CT • 203.371.0300 • wholebodydentistry.com
Edge of the Woods, Connecticut’s Largest Vegetarian Market
Edge
of the Woods is a familyowned vegetarian marketplace that has been serving the community for over forty-five years. We specialize in locally sourced, hand-chosen produce, promoting healthy, sustainable eating. Our well-stocked grocery section includes both dairy and non-dairy options, fresh and frozen foods, and a variety of bulk nuts, grains, herbs, and ground coffee. Upstairs, the Vitamin & Supplement Shop offers high-quality products recommended by local doctors, along with self-care items, natural cosmetics, books, and gifts.
The deli and kitchen area features a Hot Bar, Juice Bar, and a diverse sandwich menu, highlighted by our famous Edge Burger and a vegan Reuben. The Hot Bar offers a rotating variety of dishes, including eggplant parmesan, roasted tofu, rice dishes, roasted vegetables, and more. In the refrigerated section, you’ll find chef-prepared meals like lasagna, eggless egg salad, housemade soups, and fresh salads, perfect for takeout.
Our bakery is a customer favorite, often praised for its “best ever” carrot cake. It also offers freshly baked breads, scones, pies, and pastries that rival any upscale bakery. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, or Kosher options, Edge of the Woods has you covered.
Edge of the Woods Market • 379 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT 203.787.1055 • Eotwm.com
James W. Osborne, MS, LPC, ProNatural Wellness Group, Holistic
Psychotherapy/ LCSW/Counseling
For my seventh year of being honored as a Natural Nutmeg 10Best award winner, I was asked what led me to choose the field of psychotherapy and counseling. Interestingly enough, though, I believe the field chose me. In my opinion, no one becomes a therapist because they are tightly wrapped—I believe it is more the Wounded Healer Syndrome. We are opened to the very essence of being human through facing our own trauma/drama/pain or scarring. We develop insight into the trials/tribulations/joys and beauty of life.
When I was a teenager, I experienced depression and alienation. By 12, I was reading Kafka and Dostoevsky, thinking they were optimists. I would explore the darkest places and memories I had, looking for God knows what. I attempted to make mathematical sense of my experience in the world, ignoring my emotions. Years later, that cosmic egg would crack when my daughter was born in 1970. My experiences in the Army from 1967 to 1971 radically changed my perceptions and challenged my worldview. When I returned to college in 1971, I majored in philosophy. My honor’s thesis was about the work of William James and Maurice Merleau-Ponty entitled “Pure Experience and the Living Body.”
Upon graduation, I was prepared to enter a doctoral program in philosophy at Georgetown University when life got in the way. I returned to college a few years later, entered a counseling program, and completed a two-year Gestalt Therapy program in 1978. My own work had been Jungian. Early on, I began blending my approach to therapy in terms of experiential and cognitive work.
I see therapy as applied philosophy. Over the years, I have studied many forms of therapy, such as rational emotive, existentialism, acceptance, and commitment therapy. My initial work and training were in inpatient psych and substance abuse. The skills I learned working with people suffering in those areas proved to be an excellent foundation for my work as a therapist. I have practiced and presented in the United States, Europe, and China.
I now see my job as assisting people to get clarity on what is important to them and what they value. I help them by holding up a mirror for them to see if what they say they value is how they live their lives. I assist clients by employing mindfulness and value clarification exercises to examine their behaviors. One of my mentors, Lee Silverstein, always said, “To know and not to do is not to know.” I firmly believe that the purpose of life is to live it, to be fully engaged, and to celebrate each moment with awareness and gratitude.
James W. Osborne, MS, LPC • ProNatural Wellness Group Berlin, CT • 860.829.0707
Welcome to Forsythia Skin Care Studio, nestled in the charming town of Woodbury, Connecticut!
Starting Forsythia has been my dream since forever. Happily, that dream sprouted into reality in October 2018. When people ask why I became an esthetician or launched my own studio, my answer is a no-brainer: I want everyone I meet to feel as fabulous as I see them!
In 2023, I struck gold and found two amazing women, Courtney and Madisyn. They’ve turned into the dynamic duo of Forsythia, not just as team members but as trusted confidants for our lovely clients. Together, we’re the ultimate trio, ready to treat, pamper, and support our clients and our community!
Life can be a whirlwind of stress, but your skin shouldn’t be part of that chaos—that’s where we come in! We promise a serene atmosphere filled with top-notch products, heaps of experience, and an unwavering passion.
Each day and every client makes us fall deeper in love with what we do. I like to think of my studio as an inviting home away from home, and nothing means more to me than sharing this space while helping you relax and achieve that healthy, radiant skin you crave and deserve!
To cater to your every skincare need, we have a wide selection of treatments! From our Luxury Facial for a ninetyminute escape to pure bliss to the internationally famous
HydraFacial for results that’ll make you go “WOW!”—and don’t miss our latest superstar, the Glo2Facial, featuring botanical enzymes, serums, ultrasound magic, and lymphatic massage for that glowing skin! We also glam up brows, offer lift lashes, and body waxing.
The future is looking as bright as our clients’ complexions here at Forsythia! My team and I are all about continuous learning because, in the ever-evolving skincare world, there’s always something new to discover! We’ve got a vision, a plan, and dreams galore…but you’ll have to join us on this journey to see what we have in store for our existing and new clients! Growth is a journey, and we strive to be your skincare and confidence destination.
Luxury, relaxation, and healthy skin are harmoniously offered in a cozy and inviting atmosphere at Forsythia. We offer facial services for all skin types, from antiaging to acne, in both adolescents and adults, as well as brow, lash, and waxing services. With three licensed estheticians and open six days a week, we are here for you and your skincare needs. Let us give you the gift of healthy skin while replacing your stress with ease.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing community. Without our extraordinary clients and community, we would not be where we are. Grateful is an understatement.
Vitalized Performance Group
Vitalized Performance Group is honored to be recognized as 10Best Holistic Center by Natural Nutmeg readers for four consecutive years!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to NaturalNutmeg’s subscribers for their continued trust and support. We are also extremely grateful to the other providers around CT who refer their clients/patients to us, who can truly benefit from our services. Your recognition inspires us to keep striving for excellence in holistic healthcare. Our unique treatments include:
• GAINSWave® Therapy: A non-invasive, drug-free treatment:
•For erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease, improving blood flow and sexual performance by regenerating new cell growth.
•Focused on women’s health, addressing issues like painful intercourse, urinary incontinence, and vaginal rejuvenation.
• AcuteWave® Therapy: Effective for pain relief, scar tissue healing, fascia loosening, and stiffness reduction through advanced wave technology. Soundwave/Shockwave can regenerate and improve nerve damage.
•Infra-Red Heat/Grounding: Utilizing the Biomat and Infra-Red Dome to promote relaxation, pain relief, improved sleep, detoxification, and overall vitality.
•Ionic Foot Bath: A cleansing system that enhances the body’s ability to cleanse through ion-rich water.
•Open Colon Hydrotherapy (LIBBE): A safe and effective method to cleanse the colon and promote digestive health and wellness.
•Health/Stress Coaching: Guidance to help you achieve lasting health and wellness. We also offer in-house financing!
Our motto: When there is a will, there is always a way!
Thank you for making Vitalized Performance Group a part of your or your clients’/patients’ wellness journey!
Vitalized Performance Group
212 New London Turnpike, Suite D
Glastonbury, CT
Call: 860.430.2342 • Text: 860.603.2618
vpgwaves.com
Dr. Aimee
Montanaro, DTCM, MS-TCM, Dipl. OM (NCCAOM)®, LAc,
Integrity Acupuncture
I’mDr. Aimee Montanaro, owner and operator of Integrity Acupuncture. We specialize in women’s health and how the integrative aspects of Eastern and Western medicine can empower patients to remain strong, vibrant, and healthy throughout each phase of life.
Licensed in Connecticut, I am a nationally boardcertified acupuncturist and herbalist with the designation of NCCAOM® Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, a mark of excellence in both acupuncture and Chinese herbology.
I have completed advanced training in women’s health and fertility, orthopedics and sports medicine, gastroenterology, endocrinology, geriatrics, and emotional well-being, including the treatment of stress, anxiety, and depression. I also offer the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, e-stim, red light therapy, movement therapy, breathwork, customized herbal formulas, and health coaching.
Integrity Acupuncture offers a luxurious, serene environment punctuated by high-end design aesthetics, calming music, and nontoxic aromatherapy to set you at ease from the moment you enter. To prioritize patient comfort, treatment rooms are private yet spacious, and each treatment table provides extra cushioning and options for heat and negative ion therapy. Our locations also offer flexible hours to accommodate requests for early morning, evening, and weekend appointment times.
Dr. Aimee Montanaro, DTCM, MS-TCM, Dipl. OM (NCCAOM)®, LAc Integrity Acupuncture • 250 Main St, Westport, CT 64 Huntington St, Shelton, CT • 203.429.4406 DrAimee@IntegrityAcuCT.com • IntegrityAcuCT.com
Dr. Laura Futterman, Stamford Center for Natural Health
Early in my career, I was diagnosed with Lyme and Epstein-Barr—and was treated successfully solely through naturopathic/natural medicine. I started seeing more and more patients who suffered from the same issues, some much more severe, who had seen numerous specialists with no relief. Many felt hopeless.
Because of these experiences early in my career, I realized the importance of addressing unresolved trauma to truly heal the whole person. Energy modalities such as homeopathy and flower/gem essences, as well as referring to like-minded energy healers and therapists, are a key part of healing.
I attended the National University of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, and did a one-year residency there before moving to Stamford in 2007 and becoming a Connecticut-licensed naturopath. I am a Chicago-area native and, as a child, suffered from chronic knee and neck pain. I discovered at a young age how diet affected my pain and inflammation.
I treat a variety of illnesses and conditions, including GI, endocrine, and autoimmune diseases. Before starting their health journeys with me, countless patients felt they had to accept that feeling poorly was their new normal. When they started on their healing path, many commented that they felt better than before they got sick. That is my goal for each and every patient!
Dr. Laura Futterman • Stamford Center for Natural Health Stamford, CT • 203.325.3535 • stamfordnaturalhealth.com
Dr. Pamela Cipriano, DNP, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, The Practice of Health and Wellness
Afterearning my doctoral degree, I pursued a postdoctoral certificate in functional medicine to deepen my understanding of disease origins and address root causes. Specializing in tick-borne and vector-borne diseases, as well as chronic inflammation, became my focus after my son was misdiagnosed for ten years before we discovered his condition was tick-borne. This experience drove me to join ILADS, the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society, where I trained under renowned Lyme expert Dr. Richard Horowitz. Through this knowledge, I was able to save my son’s life and have since helped hundreds suffering from this complex, often misunderstood disease.
To expand my expertise in chronic inflammation, I trained under Ruth Kriz, APRN, a specialist in chronic urinary tract infections, further broadening my skills in managing persistent infections and systemic inflammation. Today, my practice serves patients globally, offering a nuanced approach to addressing the underlying causes of disease and providing comprehensive, functional medical care to those with chronic and complex conditions.
Dr. Pamela Cipriano, DNP, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC
The Practice of Health and Wellness
130 South Main St, Ste. 1C • Thomaston, CT P: 860.880.2525 • F: 860.880.8253 dvadnais@ppmlinc.com thepracticeofhealthandwellness.com
Pure Spa Wellness, Chrystal Moore-Pilkington, Owner, and Brie Grosset
Located in the serene environment of Riverdale Farms Shopping inAvon, CT, Pure Spa Wellness provides an exceptional experience for those in search of holistic and specialized skincare treatments. Clients can enjoy a diverse array of services, including oncology-focused care, skin care for teens, and revitalizing therapies that incorporate the healing properties of CBD, cutting-edge stem cell technology, and soothing aromatherapy products. This sanctuary goes beyond standard beauty treatments, offering distinct services such as manual lymphatic drainage and Reiki energy healing, as well as certification programs for those eager to expand their understanding of Reiki.
Leading Pure Spa Wellness is owner/founder Chrystal Moore-Pilkington. With over three decades of expertise in aesthetics and two decades in social work, her dedication to emotional healing and self-care has cultivated this peaceful retreat. Her own transformative experiences inspired the creation of the nonprofit initiative Wholistic Wellness for Warriors Inc., which provides healing skin care and compassionate care to individuals facing cancer and survivors of trauma.
What truly sets Pure Spa Wellness apart is the approach embraced by visionarypartners Chrystal and Brie. Our focus on tailoring sessions to each client’s needs helps to alleviate stress, encourage emotional healing, and nurture genuine connections. Every visit is crafted to be a unique restorative journey.
We are especially proud of receiving the esteemed Natural Nutmeg’s 10BEST Award, a reflection of their unwavering commitment to excellence and the well-being of our clients through exceptional skincare and emotional support. Pure Spa Wellness is more than just a spa—it is a sanctuary for healing, rejuvenation, and personal transformation.
Chrystal Moore-Pilkington Pure Spa Wellness Avon, CT • 203.910.3970 purespawellnessCT.com
JANUARY / FEBRUARY
The Balanced Hormones & Fat Loss Issue
MARCH / APRIL
The Longevity and Brain Health Issue
MAY / JUNE
The Healing Lyme & Autoimmune Disease Issue
/ AUGUST / SEPTEMBER
/ NOVEMBER The Mental Health & Stress Reduction Issue
IV Hydration Lounge & Med Spa, Nicole Dinsmoor, Med
Spa Manager
Dr. Pamela Cipriano, DNP, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, Medical Director
In 2020, I launched the IV Hydration Lounge and Med Spa, which initially focused on IV vitamins, minerals, and vitamin shots for overall wellness. It rapidly expanded into a full-service med spa, where we enhance health through natural weight loss, including dietary counseling with Dr. Pamela Cipriano, DNP, APRN, alongside vitamin infusions, infrared sauna therapy, and weekly vitamin shots. For individuals facing stubborn weight challenges, we incorporate semaglutide to boost weight loss. Our program includes weekly check-ins for counseling, weigh-ins, and workout guidance, including weightlifting and hydration tips. Each patient follows a personalized anti-inflammatory diet crafted by Dr. Cipriano, which has helped reverse disease progression in many cases.
Through these holistic practices, Dr. Cipriano has successfully helped patients reduce or eliminate their cholesterol and high blood pressure medications, illustrating that learning proper eating and exercise habits often reduces the need for medications. While some medications remain essential, many simply mask symptoms without addressing root causes. In addition to health-focused services, IV Hydration Lounge and Med Spa offers aesthetic treatments, including neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport, dermal fillers, PRF fillers, PRF microneedling, facials, HydraFacials, halo therapy and more. This comprehensive approach supports not only weight loss and wellness but also rejuvenation, empowering clients to achieve both health and beauty naturally.
IV Hydration Lounge & Med Spa
Dr. Pamela Cipriano, DNP, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, Medical Director
Nicole Dinsmoor, Med Spa Manager 130 South Main St, Ste. 1D, Thomaston, CT P: 860.283.4249 F: 860.880.8253 ivhydrationlounge@gmail.com ivhydrationlounge.net
I’mJenny Alzate, a licensed Integrative Psychotherapist and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. I believe that mental and emotional health are the foundation of the quality of our lives and our well-being internally and externally.
Our thoughts create how we feel and how we are. Depression is a chronic condition that makes life feel hard, and heavy, and unlivable. Those with depression feel afraid of life, completely disconnected from their power. Do you know how to welcome in your feelings, or do you ignore, distract, and avoid? Being flooded with emotions creates anxiety and severely disrupts your central nervous system. My background in law of attraction, meditation, energy medicine, mind-body medicine, Reiki, emotional freedom technique, and somatic trauma resolution, coupled with 20 years of providing mental health services, ensures that I am providing you a holistic, eclectic, and varied toolbox to help and meet you wherever you are, offering treatment and support with:
• Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and stress management
• Living with chronic medical conditions
• Conscious parenting support for parents and coparents
• Intensive inner child trauma therapy for adults
• Conscious business consulting I also offer empowerment sessions, working with the law of attraction, mindfulness, chakras and other energy centers, acupressure and other energy medicine techniques, mind-body techniques, and somatic realigning. I bring many supports to help you balance your mind, body, and soul and finally heal your inner child.
Sacred Mountain Healing was born from years of connecting with people on their spiritual journeys. As a lightworker, I move between the spiritual and physical realms, radiating love and light. In each encounter, I bring empathy and authenticity, supporting clients in their evolution.
My journey into this work began with a need to realign my own life. Following significant life changes, I found solace in ancient wisdom, mindfulness, and yoga. At 60, I encountered profound losses and challenges that deepened my practice and compassion, immersing me in study and self-healing with a vision of sharing this knowledge. Ayurveda, or “the knowledge of life,” offers guidance on nutrition, herbal medicine, and holistic healing for balance and fulfillment.
I am certified as a New World Ayurveda Practitioner, Akashic Record Practitioner, Shamanic Reiki Healer, and Pilates Instructor. My passion is Integrated Energy Healing, a practice that combines Akashic Record Reading, Shamanic Reiki, Crystal Healing, and Chakra Balancing. The Akashic Records are the cornerstone of my offerings, bringing clarity and insights to illuminate your life’s path and purpose.
Dr. Jennifer Letitia, MD Optimal Health, Healing, & Longevity, LLC
10Best Functional Medicine/Integrative MD/Dentist
IamJennifer Letitia, MD, an integrative and functional medicine doctor in Fairfield County, CT. Having developed a reputation for helping some of the most complex patients, I take care of a range of health problems, ranging from Lyme and other vector-borne diseases, yeast and mold, Long COVID and post-vaccine conditions, cognitive decline, gut health and SIBO, autoimmune diseases, joint health, environmental toxins and heavy metals, chronic viral illnesses, hormonal and sexual health, fatigue and fibromyalgia, and more. I am also passionate about antiaging medicine and athletic optimization.
I was initially trained as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon and hand surgeon at some of the most prestigious institutions in the Northeast. As a surgeon, I established a busy private practice doing mostly trauma, reconstructive, and corrective surgery. However, after developing my own autoimmune disease, as well as a third bout with Lyme disease and mold biotoxin illness, I experienced the frustrations that many of my patients face of inadequate attention, testing, knowledge, and treatment that can exist in the conventional medical world. While acknowledging the benefits of traditional medicine, I realized the need for a medical approach that identified and addressed the root causes of disease rather than just treating symptomatically.
Given that I had a medical doctorate degree, I saw a tremendous opportunity and felt a responsibility to help others who were suffering from chronic ongoing health problems. I therefore redirected my medical focus to Functional and Integrative Medicine. With this approach, I provide personalized and comprehensive medical care that considers all aspects of illness and health, understanding the interrelatedness of the body, mind, and soul, as well as the impact of lifestyle factors, stress, toxins, diet, and infections.
As an integrative physician, I can offer my patients the most appropriate care, whether that includes holistic healthcare practices such as nutrients, supplements, and herbs or prescriptions such as antibiotics, peptides, and hormones. My comprehensive approach includes optimizing physiology, nutrition, emotional well-being, hormones, detoxification, gut health, adrenals, thyroid, immune function, and cognition.
Having established a wide range of expertise, I feel incredibly fortunate to have studied with renowned experts and institutions from around the world. My continuing efforts to engage and learn allow me to provide cutting-edge medicine.
I am accepting new patients at Optimal Health, Healing, and Longevity.
Abundant Health Massage Therapy & Wellness
Since 2009, I have provided my clients with customized, quality therapeutic massage sessions. In addition, I am trained in Cupping, MediCupping™, Facial Cupping Rejuvenation, and Hypnosis. I have been interested in holistic health and healing from an early age and have discovered that massage therapy is a very effective modality for treating stress, as well as pain. I wanted to offer my clients a drug-free alternative to relaxation and pain relief.
I am board-certified through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and enjoy furthering my knowledge and expertise by completing continuing education courses on a regular basis. In my experience, I have found that incorporating cupping into the massage session yields superior results. Cupping is a type of myofascial release in that suction that is created inside the cup separates the fascial layers and helps to release muscle knots. It’s a fantastic alternative for clients who need their muscle knots and tightness addressed but perhaps cannot tolerate the potential discomfort of deep tissue massage. Cupping is also excellent for reducing pain and inflammation, improving joint mobility, and increasing local circulation.
Another service I offer is facial cupping, a vacuum therapy technique that helps to firm the skin, diminish fine lines and wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, and ease sinus congestion and TMJ disorder. This treatment is non-invasive. Contrary to popular belief, facial cups do not leave any cupping marks on the face. I am also trained in the Body Contouring Cocoon, which addresses solid bloat and cellulite by reducing lymph congestion. This treatment utilizes Cupping, therapeuticgrade essential oils, and a body wrap. A new service I’m excited to offer is Gua Sha Facial Fusion, which is a revitalizing, antiaging treatment that consists of Gua Sha, Thai herbal poultice, and lymphatic brushing.
My sessions are customized for each client. I am a very good listener and communicator and will adjust the pressure according to the client’s preference/tolerance. I always encourage clients to speak up and let me know if they feel uncomfortable in any way. My clients can expect to feel the benefits and results of a quality therapeutic session.
I enjoy writing educational and interesting articles for the readers of Natural Nutmeg. The articles written by the many qualified local holistic health professionals are an excellent resource for our community. I consider it a compliment when new clients inform me that they decided to schedule a session with me based on their enjoyment of reading my articles and the information they gained from them.
Asa Holistic Nurse Practitioner and Integrative Nurse Coach, I consider myself a 20th-century Nightingale, dedicated to living my soul’s purpose and calling of being a nurse. With a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of the human spirit and a deep knowledge of natural complementary healing modalities, I blend the art and science of Integrative Nursing into a co-creative, intentional, human, caring experience and relationship with you! In covenant with you, a reciprocal healing-growth environment leads to guided exploration, discovery, remembering, expansion, and embodying wholebecoming with meaning and purpose. Welcome to Eclipse Holistic Living!
Eclipse Holistic Living in Glastonbury Center is a co-creative healing arts studio—a destination to envision your future self and actualize your fullest potential. Offering alternative and complementary modalities, Eclipse Holistic Living becomes that portal for all who enter to embody conscious awareness through intentional, holistic living, well-becoming on our authentic healinggrowth journey together.
Our clean, modern, spacious studio offers a blank slate and open canvas for you to share your energy and spirit! All are welcome! Practitioners, artists, and clients come together in community. Our custom-designed, 950-square-foot, second-floor build-out was thoughtfully executed with a natural color palette, raw materials, and hardwoods with the intention of bringing the outdoors inside. The gracious reception area receives all our guests with warmth and genuine hospitality. Providing opportunities for socializing, grounding, and transition into our classes, programs, and special events. Our private 10×12 treatment room offers peace, serenity, quiet, and comfortable furnishings. Our expansive studio suite 23×16 with large windows providing natural sunlight, pristine white bamboo hardwood floors, and a performing arts stage lends itself to multifunction/multipurpose holistic modalities.
We also welcome individuals, groups, local artists, providers, practitioners, performers, and light seekers to collaborate with, or I will travel and come to you! If you are interested in learning more or sharing your gifts, the door at Eclipse Holistic Living is always open. I offer an authentic, caring presence, compassion, and willingness to meet you wherever you are in the totality of your life, and I will honor your unique experiences and your personal story.
My Mission: Inspiring you to let go of what you cling to and embrace the mystery of the not yet known, opening your wholeness of heart-mind-body-soul to the abundant energy and opportunity the Universe has to offer. Appointments are scheduled or by FATE!
Melissa Wooldridge Breton, APRN, FNP-BC, MSN, RN Eclipse Holistic Living, LLC • Glastonbury Center 30 Hebron Avenue, Building E, 2nd Floor, Glastonbury, CT 860.614.7588 (text preferred) Melissa@eclipseholisticliving.com • eclipseholisticliving.com IG:@eclipseholisticliving • FB: Eclipse Holistic Living
Kelly McCarthy, Beyond Words N Wisdom 10Best Energy Healers
Asa soul reader and energy guide, I have spent over a decade working with energy, attuning myself to the frequencies that shape our world with a clear understanding that life is not happening to us, or even for us, but as us, through us. Each unique energetic frequency, including my own, imprints and impacts every experience we encounter as well as every being on the planet, whether they are conscious of it or not.
My journey to awareness began after years of living unconsciously, both personally and professionally, when a pivotal moment shattered my reality and compelled me to remember the true essence of the being I was born as. Rather than conform to the beliefs and expectations of others, I turned inward, surrounding myself with mentors, like-minded souls, and a range of modalities that helped me reconnect to myself, my ancestors, and the powerful alignment with the laws of the Universe.
Embracing my gifts as a storyteller of souls, I reveal the hidden truths within, serving as a mirror that allows others to see themselves as I and the Universe already see them. I guide you on a journey of self-awareness, helping you remember your inner being while understanding your karmic fate as you empower yourself to shift and shape your true destiny. My ability to channel the wisdom of universal energy, ancestral guidance, and the animal kingdom opens hearts and minds, inviting you to expand your conscious awareness of what is truly possible in your life.
When we know better, we do better, and when we do better, we help create space for others to do the same. When we are in balance, areas of our lives are easier to balance.
It all starts from within, and I am here to support you on your journey to remembering that space within you.
Weat the Connecticut Center for Natural Health are considered the family practice of natural medicine. We offer a wide range of services, all provided by a team of professionals who are passionate about helping you achieve optimal health. Conveniently located in Middletown, our practice is easily accessible from various parts of the state.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Keli Samuelson, Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Keli Samuelson is dedicated to helping patients reach their best health by blending modern naturopathic practices with traditional healing methods. Her compassionate, individualized care is designed to meet each patient’s unique needs. Specializing in women’s health, hormone balancing, and digestive health, Dr. Samuelson focuses on treating the whole person, not just the disease. Through comprehensive consultations and advanced testing, she creates personalized wellness plans addressing thyroid dysfunction, adrenal fatigue, gut imbalances, high cholesterol, and more. With an emphasis on lifestyle changes, nutrition, and targeted supplements, Dr. Samuelson helps restore balance and vitality.
Dr. Michael Kane, Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Michael Kane integrates nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle counseling into treatments that respect the body’s innate ability to heal itself. He places a strong emphasis on gut health, understanding that a healthy digestive system is key to overall wellness, including mental health and inflammation reduction. Dr. Kane is trained in the Bredesen Recode Protocol, a forward-thinking approach to preventing and reversing cognitive decline linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Known for his deep listening and collaborative approach, Dr. Kane partners with patients to create individualized treatment plans that nurture the body, mind, and spirit.
Sean Macauley, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Mental health is a critical component of overall wellness. Sean Macauley provides expert counseling for individuals facing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and more. With a focus on mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Sean helps patients develop practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges and build emotional resilience. He understands that the mind and body are deeply interconnected and works alongside our medical team to ensure that each patient receives well-rounded care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.
Jen Dubicki, Licensed Acupuncturist
With decades of experience, Jen Dubicki brings a wealth of knowledge in Traditional Chinese Medicine to our team. Specializing in acupuncture, Jen provides gentle yet powerful treatments to restore energy flow, reduce pain, and promote healing from within. Her expertise covers a range of conditions, including chronic pain, fertility, digestive disorders, and stress management. Jen’s approach combines acupuncture, traditional Chinese herbal formulations, and dietary recommendations to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. By addressing energy imbalances, Jen helps patients find relief and enhance their overall quality of life.
Emily Selden, Licensed Esthetician
Your skin, the body’s largest organ, is a reflection of your overall health. We believe in treating the body as a whole and that skincare should always be a priority for self-care. Emily Selden, our licensed esthetician, offers holistic skincare treatments designed to enhance your skin’s natural beauty and works to help correct issues you may be facing, such as acne, sensitivities, and antiaging. With a focus on clean, high-quality products using the Rhonda Allison professional skincare line, Emily provides customized facials, peels, and at-home skincare regimens that will help you start or continue loving your skin.
Jaimie Lindberg, Certified Clinical Nutritionist
Jaimie Lindberg takes a “food-as-medicine” approach to nutrition, working closely with patients to design personalized dietary plans that promote long-term health and healing. With a focus on functional nutrition, Jaimie addresses the root causes of health concerns, whether from gut imbalances, hormonal issues, or chronic conditions. Her deep understanding of how nutrition impacts the body allows her to guide patients to making sustainable, nourishing changes to their diet. As a key member of our integrative team, Jaimie collaborates with our physicians and other specialists to ensure each patient receives holistic, well-rounded care.
Accessible, Holistic Care
At The Connecticut Center for Natural Health, we believe everyone should have access to quality, holistic healthcare. That’s why we participate with many insurance plans, making natural medicine affordable and accessible. Our team works together to provide customized care that addresses every aspect of your health. Take the first step toward vibrant health by scheduling a consultation with one of our experts today. Experience the difference natural, holistic care can make in your life by treating the whole you, with nature’s healing power.
Dr. Katy Firisin, ND, Coastal Natural Medicine
Hope. Naturopathic medicine provides tools that restore hope. The foundations of naturopathic medicine lie in the belief that the body has an innate wisdom that will move in the direction of healing if given the right conditions. When patients feel well, they have an opportunity to reach their highest potential.
After many years working in a conventional medical field, I could see that patients needed more. With the help of my amazing mentors, I was able to eliminate medications and restore my health. Reversing PCOS and hypothyroidism and restoring my quality of life with chronic Lyme and autoimmune disease was a miracle.
When healing encompasses not only the physical symptoms but also creates spiritual and emotional shifts, it is inspirational. When a patient tells me she decided to quit her job and start her own business, or someone overcomes severe anxiety and depression, gaining clarity to embrace gender transition—these are the things that make naturopathic medicine unique.
Coastal Naturopathic Medicine is a premiere naturopathic practice serving Fairfield County, the tri-state area, and patients from all over the world. My mission is rooted in fundamental naturopathic principles where each patient receives individualized care, emphasizing removing obstacles to healing, giving the body what it needs, and stimulating the body’s ability to heal itself. Continuing to find ways to reach more people, bring naturopathic medicine to the community, and expand the modalities I offer are all things I hope to accomplish in my practice.
I am so grateful to those in the community who have supported me, embraced my new practice, and voted for me for this award. Natural Nutmeg brings light and focus to real, accurate, and useful information to those looking for an alternative to conventional wisdom related to health and healing. I am honored to be a part of this publication and grateful for those who supported me in the 10BEST.
Dr. Katy Firisin, ND
Coastal Natural Medicine, LLC
Southport, CT 475.999.2032
coastalnaturalmedicine.com
Melissa Shute, LPC, BCH, Mind Power Psychotherapy and Hypnosis
As a National Guild of Hypnotists board-certified hypnotist and licensed professional counselor (LPC). I practice both modalities, looking at bodymind-spirit health, as they are all connected and important to a healthy body and mind.
In addition to being a board-certified hypnotist and licensed professional counselor, I am a master hypnotist in 5-Path® Hypnosis and a 7th Path Self-Hypnosis® teacher to the ultimate ninth degree—considered the one-percenters in the field of hypnosis. I also hold certifications in other areas, such as selfhypnosis instructor, stress reduction facilitator, laughter yoga teacher, LaHoChi practitioner, and an ordained minister.
You will often hear me say I have the best job because I get to use my knowledge in hypnosis, psychotherapy, and spirituality to help each individual client reach their goals. The typical process includes a complete intake, a customized treatment plan, and follow-through to success.
In addition, I am a contributing author for the 5-PATH® IAHP professional iournal and the NGH journal. These publications are based on mind and body hypnosis and psychotherapy and how to bring healing to self and others.
I work with clients of all ages with a variety of issues, such as those who need help with self-esteem, self-confidence, trauma issues, weight management, PNES, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and much more. I also offer groups and classes throughout the year.
Melissa Shute, LPC, BCH • Mind Power Psychotherapy and Hypnosis
I’mNina Veronesi, and I have been a colon hydrotherapist at The Colonic Institute since 2015. My journey as a therapist began with my mom, who had a tendency to prefer more natural approaches to healing than traditional medicine. When she invited me along to a colon therapy appointment, my interest in healing beyond medicine began to peak. Eventually, my own journey using colon therapy to treat my own digestive issues convinced me that this approach to healing had more to it that I needed to understand further.
Years later, I decided this just might be the field for me to explore, and I have been privileged to work time and again with many clients who were led into our office to try this approach to help them heal. Most clients we see find relief from irregularity, IBS, SIBO, bloating, irritability, brain fog, depression, low energy, and more. Some clients who are blessed enough to be healthy come as a preventative measure to detox the body.
Seeing clients who have hit a wall with their health and are suddenly finding hope to help heal has been a reward I am continually so grateful for. My hope is that more people can discover this method of healing. This power of detoxification is massive, and I want people to know there is hope out there for them. When you commit yourself to healing, we promise each of our clients that we will meet them where they are with a tender heart and loving hands.
Nina Veronesi • The Colonic Institute Avon, CT • 860.481.2702 • colonicct.com
7th Annual 10BEST WINNERS
Congratulations to our 10BEST Winners!
Welcome to the seventh annual Natural Nutmeg 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards issue— our celebration of all things holistic we love about Connecticut. These awards bring massive awareness throughout the state for holistic businesses and practitioners, and we have received amazing feedback from the winners and readers. Many new business owners in categories including natural product companies, spas, and integrative nursing said they had just discovered the magazine and didn’t realize their customers were avid readers and fans. We are proud to be the first and only readernominated awards exclusively for the holistic business community in Connecticut. Enjoy all the selections and let us know what you think about the winners and any businesses that are still best-kept secrets!
By Dr. Diane Hayden, Publisher of Natural Nutmeg Magazine
Energy Healers
Agnes Daddona, MA
Intuitive Counseling LLC
Avon, CT • 860.941.2667
agnes@intuitivecounselingLLC.com agnesdaddona.com
Agnes Daddona is one of the best psychic/medium and healers in New England. The gift of intuition has run in her family for generations. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people worldwide through readings, mediumship, counseling, healing, and teaching. Sessions are available in-office, by phone, or via Zoom.
Kevin Ferry, Ferry Law
New Britain, CT • 860.827.0880 kevin@ferrylaw.com ferrylaw.com
Ferry Law handles personal injury and truck accident cases. Kevin Ferry is also a tai chi instructor and Wim Hof method instructor. He looks at each of his clients holistically and offers yoga, meditation, and tai chi to all his clients.
Kelly McCarthy is a soul reader, energy guide, writer, and intuitive graphic artist. She helps expand awareness and connection, empowering you to embrace life’s possibilities and harness your unique energetic frequency. Kelly offers both in-person and remote sessions to support your journey toward a meaningful legacy.
Dr. Eilis Philpott, the owner of Soul Healing Journey and the Academy for Soul Healing has been a Master Healer and Teacher for 25 years. She offers soul level healing as well as training for those who wish to pursue their own journey in the healing arts.
Karen Elizabeth Rowan, LMT, CST
Simsbury, CT • 860.830.0877
karenerowan.com
Karen has studied with internationally celebrated doctors and healers from around the world. She specializes in advanced cranio-sacral therapy, Somato emotional release, Samvahan vibrational healing, spiritual life coaching, and feng shui. Karen is one of only two people in the U.S. who holds an advanced certification in India’s ancient art of Samvahan vibrational healing.
Hilary Rudenauer, owner of Resonance Healing Arts, is a Reiki master teacher with over a decade of experience. She offers a variety of healing sessions including Reiki, IET, and somatic Reiki, as well as Reiki trainings for mental health professionals and anyone else who feels called to the Reiki path.
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200
The Sacred Journey Burlington, CT • 860.675.9706 jsgermaine@aol.com thesacredjourney.biz
Joyce is highly trained in cross-cultural shamanism and energy healing modalities incorporating sound, color, journeying, ceremony, yoga, cord-cutting, and gemstone/ crystal therapies. Her 40 years of experience include advanced training in soul retrieval, spirit detachment, and extraction. Workshops, study groups, and international retreats are available. Sessions may be conducted in person, remotely, or via Zoom.
Erin Touponse is a Reiki master/teacher, hypnotherapist, pranic healer, tarot scholar, and student of shamanic studies. She is co-owner of The Blackbird House and author of Soul’s Journey—A Practical Guide to Reading Tarot . Her goal is to help you “awaken your inner healer.” Erin offers Reiki and tarot classes.
Heather Whitehouse
Sacred Mountain Healing
Burlington, CT • 203.605.2541
heather@heatherwhitehouse.com
Heatherwhitehouse.com
Akashic records, Ayurveda, Shamanic Reiki practitioner, bringing healing into your mind, body and spirit through each of these modalities.
Agnes Daddona, MA, Psychic Medium Counselor
10Best Energy Healers
More than just a psychic medium, I am a beacon of light, a guide, and a healer who empowers individuals to embrace their true potential. With over twenty years of experience, I have touched the lives of thousands across the globe, offering a unique blend of intuitive readings, mediumship, angelic channeling, counseling, and healing in both English and Polish.
Born in Poland with an innate ability to “see” beyond the veil, I inherited an intuitive wisdom from my mother. Prophetic dreams and a deep connection to the spiritual realm marked my childhood. This, coupled with a burning desire to help others, led me to pursue diverse studies, including law, sociology, psychology, theology, and philosophy, and over thirty certifications in healing arts. This rich tapestry of knowledge informs my holistic approach, addressing the physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of my clients’ being.
My work transcends traditional boundaries. I act as a conduit for angelic frequencies, connecting individuals with divine support and guidance. My clients, often seeking solace in times of crisis, find themselves enveloped in an environment of healing and transformation. I illuminate their path, helping them manifest joy-filled lives and embrace their authentic selves. I believe everyone possesses the innate power to create their dream life, and my mission is to awaken that power within everyone I work with.
My sessions are deeply personalized, focusing on the specific needs of each client. I delve into past lives, acknowledging wounds and self-doubt and unveiling hidden gifts and talents, empowering individuals to rewrite their life narratives. I have transformed many people’s lives to meet their dreams, and I continue to solve the most difficult issues when it seems no one else can help. I offer sessions in my holistic spa in Avon, CT, over the phone, or via Zoom.
I deeply believe we are each divine beings meant to live beautifully and happily. My unwavering dedication to this belief, coupled with my compassionate spirit and extraordinary abilities, make me a true catalyst for healing and transformation. Working with me is an invitation to experience the profound beauty and power of angelic presence. It is a journey of energy shifts, heightened awareness, and a deep connection to the light within. I am committed to finding creative ways to help you heal, gain guidance and clarity, and elevate your vibration so you can live the most magnificent version of your life.
Valeria is a Master Esthetician and the owner of Naturezza Wax and Spa. Valeria is an expert in the most advanced skin care techniques with over 17 years of experience. Valeria’s philosophy is that through proper daily care, you can achieve healthy and beautiful skin.
Luxury, relaxation, and healthy skin are harmoniously offered in a cozy and inviting atmosphere at Forsythia. Facial treatments for all skin types, from antiaging to acne (both adolescents and adults), as well as brow, lash, and waxing services. Are you looking for experienced, passionate, and detail-oriented estheticians? Here we are!
Our spa is Farmington Valley’s hidden treasure. At Illumina Skin Care Massage, we offer a variety of services to improve health, beauty, and relaxation. With an intimate atmosphere, our clients receive an excellent pampering experience that is catered to their individual needs so they can walk away feeling completely refreshed.
Imagine Float
Avon, CT • 860.255.7771
contactus@imaginefloat.com imaginefloat.com
Imagine Float is a peaceful escape from the chaos of your daily life with floatation therapy, cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and compression therapy. When used in synergy, they have endless physical and mental well-being benefits. Make a renewed commitment to achieving inner peace, a physical awakening, and reclaiming your best life!
Chrystal Moore-Pilkington Pure Spa Wellness
Avon, CT • 203.910.3970
purespamobile@yahoo.com
PureSpaWellnessCT.com
Pure Spa Wellness offers holistic and oncology skin care, Reiki, manual lymphatic drainage, and rejuvenating body treatments. As expert clinical estheticians, we create customized experiences to promote relaxation and well-being. Discover an intimate environment dedicated to enhancing your health and beauty. Visit us to embark on your journey to wellness.
Salt of the Earth Sanctuary
Woodbury, CT • 203.586.1172
soteswoodburyct@gmail.com naturalsalthealing.com
Salt of the Earth Sanctuary is your “healing” energy wellness destination. Utilizing Earth’s natural resources with modern science and highly skilled light workers, we offer treatments that revitalize the respiratory system, clear energetic blockages, and provide overall pain relief and immune support through heat and cell rejuvenation with frequencies and vibrations.
Alexis Murphy Skin from Within, Integrative Wellness & Beauty
Woodbury • 203.267.9201
alexis@alexismurphy.net alexismurphy.net
Skin from Within offers personalized facials, brows, lash services, and astrology readings in a peaceful, welcoming environment. Focused on healing and confidence, we provide relaxing treatments that leave clients feeling radiant. Experience rejuvenating skincare and cosmic insights tailored to enhance both your inner and outer glow.
The Spa at Litchfield Hills is a luxury beauty, health, and wellness destination located in the heart of Litchfield, CT with treatment offerings focused on holistic healing designed to leave you with a lasting feeling of transformation.
Michele Beaule, Owner & Operator, Imagine Float
10Best Esthetician/Holistic & Organic Spa
When I experienced my first float, I felt something truly magical. It was an unfamiliar peace—a profound relaxation that revealed how deeply I’d been holding it all together. I was juggling motherhood with four kids, managing life’s constant demands, and navigating my family’s challenges without a break in sight. But in that float cabin, I realized just how exhausted I was. For the first time, I felt my mind and body truly relax, and I knew this couldn’t be a one-time experience. I needed this kind of relief regularly— and I knew others did, too. That single experience changed everything. From that moment, Imagine Float began to take shape.
At Imagine Float, we are a wellness sanctuary designed to help you reconnect with yourself and find calm in a world that often pulls us in every direction. Imagine Float isn’t just about the latest technology or trends; it’s about using state-of-theart therapies to create meaningful change in your life. Our mission is to support you on a journey toward feeling your best—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Imagine Float is a community. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We’re here to build genuine, supportive relationships with every person who walks through our doors. We strive to be experts in our services—from float therapy and cryotherapy to infrared saunas and Ballancer® Pro—so that you can trust you’re receiving the best care and guidance. Whether it’s reducing pain, minimizing stress, or just finding a moment of peace, our tools are here to help you achieve your wellness goals.
Our center is designed as a calm, intimate space, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff will make you feel immediately at ease. We provide not only the latest in wellness services but also the education to empower you to listen to your body and understand its needs. Our intention is for each visit to be a step toward a healthier, happier self.
We invite you to experience Imagine Float—a place where your wellness journey matters and where you’ll leave each visit feeling heard, at peace, and one step closer to true well-being. Here, you will find a partnership in living better. Join us and see how powerful it can be when your well-being is genuinely prioritized, one session at a time.
April Beaman, founder and medical thermographer at CT Thermography, specializes in advanced thermal imaging. With a focus on early detection, she provides breast and full-body assessments, equipping clients with essential health insights to make informed decisions for a healthier future.
Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT, is a pioneer and premier authority in biological and holistic dentistry. He is a health visionary with over 40 years of experience helping patients find solutions to baffling, unresolved health problems—even those seemingly unrelated to dentistry. Patients come from all over for his expertise.
Dr. Deanna Cherrone, MD
Natural Health and Healing
West Hartford, CT • 860.677.4600 naturalhealthandhealing.net
Understanding what motivates a patient and the obstacles that impede progress enables me to recommend individualized strategies for success. Applying biochemistry to each patient and seeing the positive results is extremely gratifying. I believe functional medicine provides the necessary framework for how medicine is meant to be practiced.
Dr. Steven F. Hinchey, DMD
South Glastonbury • 860.633.6518 drhinch@agd.org • dochincheydmd.com
Thank you to our wonderful patients who trust our team to care for their improved oral health. A healthy, disease-free mouth will help your overall health. It is all connected— the mouth and the body. And we can help you get there.
Dr. Jennifer Letitia, MD
Optimal Health, Healing and Longevity
Stratford, CT • 860.980.0270
DrJen@JenniferLetitiaMD.com JenniferLetitiaMD.com
Functional integrative physician offering personalized precision medicine to comprehensively address health and longevity by determining the root causes of chronic illnesses and ailments, treating chronic infections, long COVID, mold, environmental toxicities, Lyme and vector-borne diseases, and more, while optimizing nutritional cognitive, hormonal, emotional, gut and other aspects of health.
Shalva Clinic is a full-service naturopathic clinic offering a wide range of services. Working from a different paradigm of health from many other physicians, we understand that optimal healthcare is more than just treating symptoms. As the first functional medicine providers, naturopathic doctors search for the root cause of illness.
Dr. May is one of the nation’s leading ceramic implant dentists, placing nearly 1000 zirconia implants, performing thousands of infected tooth extractions, removing failing metal implants, and reconstructing smiles with biological, metal-free dentistry. Passionately focused on improving overall health, Dr. May works with both patients and medical professionals on the East Coast and welcomes traveling patients across and outside of the U.S.
Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM
Food First MD
Windsor, CT • 203.441.1075
info@foodfirstmd.com foodfirstmd.com
At Food First MD, Dr. Christine merges traditional medicine with personalized nutrition. Emphasizing metabolic health, she helps patients harness food’s power, transform their lives from within, and foster long-lasting vitality and well-being. Contact her now to begin your journey to optimal health.
Dr. Kevin H. Norige, DMD
South Windsor Smiles
South Windsor, CT • 860.644.0113
860.288.2111 • info@southwindsorsmiles.com
SouthWindsorSmiles.com
Kevin H. Norige, DMD, FICD, is founder and chief dentist at South Windsor Smiles. He is co-chair of the CT Dental Association Professional Development Council and member of the American Dental Society and the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Dr. Norige was also inducted into the International College of Dentists in recognition of his service in Nicaragua, Honduras, Mexico, Montana, and Maine. For 35 years, he has worked with patients to achieve healthy mouths and live healthier lives.
My journey into thermography began not as a career choice, but as a personal quest for a radiation-free breast health screening. Little did I know this quest would define my why, my purpose, my passion. Discovering thermography was not a chance encounter, it kept crossing my path, as if the universe was trying to tell me something. The turning point came when two friends, both in their early thirties, were diagnosed with breast cancer within months of each other. It was then that I understood the significance of thermography and why it kept reemerging –a purpose far beyond my own needs. My mission became clear: I was determined to inform everyone about the invaluable benefits of thermography. My girlfriends and women alike are faced with the challenge of being overlooked for breast cancer screenings due to their age. It is for this reason I felt an unwavering purpose to make a difference, to ensure that every woman, regardless of her age has access to thermography to monitor their breast health.
Being a medical thermographer and the founder of CT thermography is a role I cherish deeply. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be able to provide thermography screening to all those seeking a safer, holistic approach to health assessments. Through my work, I strive to nurture a sense of empowerment, encouraging individuals to take charge of their health journey. Each day, I am reminded of the impact this technology can have on lives, offering individuals a chance to prioritize their health.
Now in our sixth year, CT Thermography has grown alongside the rising awareness and demand for thermography. Beyond our primary office in Farmington, we’ve expanded to multiple satellite locations across Connecticut and Massachusetts, made possible through partnerships with dedicated physicians. These collaborations allow us to integrate thermography into broader healthcare practices, creating a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.
Together, we’re offering more than a screening service— we are supporting a journey toward informed, proactive health
Looking to the future, my commitment remains unwavering: to educate, to empower, and to continue championing this vital work.
Health Food Store & Gluten-Free/ Organic Product Company
Divine Treasures Manchester, CT
Immortal Opulence Glastonbury, CT
New Morning Market Woodbury, CT
Uzma Zakir RPh
bloomHigher
Stamford, CT • 203.751.1369
uzma@bloom-higher.com bloom-higher.com
Uzma Zakir, RPh, founder of bloomHigher consulting, is passionate about sharing her expertise on the healing benefits of cannabinoids. By combining current research, her experience in treating patients since 2015, and her pharmacy background, she has developed a unique approach for patient care and lectures extensively on best practices and cannabinoid science. Contact Uzma today to see if cannabis is the missing piece in your health and wellness journey.
BOOSTIE™ is an intentionally selected combination of organic sprouted nuts, seeds, and cacao nibs (some versions include electrolytes.) The vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, plant protein, and fiber have many benefits: heart health, cholesterol, brain function, blood sugar, immunity, and weight management. And BOOSTIE™ has more nutrients than any other one ounce of food!
Edge of the Woods
New Haven, CT • 203.787.1055
eotwmdeliveries@gmail.com • eotwm.com
Edge of the Woods, CT’s largest vegetarian market, has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Featuring fresh produce from local farms, groceries with dairy and non-dairy choices, a variety of bulk nuts/grains/herbs, a large vitamin and supplement department, a hot bar, a juice bar, sandwiches, prepared foods, and a full bakery.
Essential Health
Natural Foods Market
Hartford, CT • 860.269.3228
Kat@essentialhealthct.com
essentialhealthmarket.com
A unique food store with the cleanest and healthiest groceries, located in the heart of CT right off of I-84. Pasture-raised meats, eggs and raw milk are available year-round. Strict guidelines for pantry staples include no seed oils, low sugar, low carb. Let us help you lead a healthy lifestyle.
Brenda Sullivan Farm to Bath South Glastonbury, CT • 860.266.5682 info@farmtobath.com farmtobath.com
Brenda J. Sullivan, herbalist, is the owner of Farm to Bath. Her garden, where she grows medicinal flowers and herbs for her bath and body products such as goat milk soap, balms, body sprays, butters and face serums. Brenda loves to share her love of the outdoors through her products.
Liquid Nirvana juice bar, established in 2014, offers whole fruit smoothies, protein shakes, acai bowls, wellness shots, and juices, all made from organic, clean, locally sourced products with no added sugar. And not only are our products local, but we also support our community in other ways—by holding fundraisers, collecting items for those in need, and supporting school events. A healthy, happy community is our Nirvana.
Vitathena Wellness
Online Professional Apothecary Wethersfield, CT • 860.603.3069 edworkin@vitathena.com vitathenawellness.com
20,000+ natural items (10% off autoship, FREE shipping over $50), nutraMetrix nutraceuticals, DoTERRA essential oils, other exclusive brands.Emailed recommendations, wellness assessments, and personalized lifestyle consultations. Contact Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition™. Formerly Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe.
Holistic Center/School
Erin Touponse
The Blackbird House Wethersfield, CT • 860.416.3177 theblackbirdhousect@gmail.com theblackbirdhouse.com
The Blackbird House is a holistic center and gift shop located in Old Wethersfield. We offer a variety of services, including Reiki and pranic healing, hypnotherapy, tarot readings, and sound healing. We also offer monthly Reiki and tarot classes, as well as intuitive development groups, guided meditation sound healing—and more!
Nina Veronesi
The Colonic Institute Avon, CT • 860.481.2702 colonicsct46@gmail.com colonicct.com
The Colonic Institute offers closedsystem colonics by I-ACT-trained colon therapists. Additional services include bioelectric lymphatic drainage, ionic detox footbaths, ear coning, Reiki, and hypnotherapy.
Eclipse Holistic Living is a cocreative healing arts studio in Glastonbury. A destination to envision your future self and actualize your fullest potential. Offering alternative and complementary modalities, Eclipse becomes the portal for all who enter in to embody conscious awareness through intentional holistic living—well-becoming on our healing-growth journey together.
Resonance Healing Arts offers a range of one-on-one and group services including Reiki, Reiki training, massage, yoga, sound healing, somatic trauma healing, spiritual workshops, corporate wellness offerings, and professional development trainings. Resonance is a space in which all people can show up as they are, experience belonging, and access healing.
Kathy Stalter | Sanaré Wellness
Southington, CT • 860.600.0106
admin@sanare.life • sanare.life
Sanaré Wellness use two advanced technologies: the 24 Unit Energy Enhancement System and the BioCharger. The EESystem enhances cellular health using Scalar/ biophotonic energy, while the BioCharger produces pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF), electrodynamic energy (voltage), frequencies, harmonics, and photonic light. Together, they harness natural energies promoting optimal cellular function and rejuvenation.
Courtney Welch-Greig
Somewhere Over the Spectrum Berlin, CT • 860.420.3800 info@somewhereoverct.com somewhereoverct.com
Somewhere Over the Spectrum is a holistic neurodivergent affirming autism center located in Berlin, CT, that provides naturalistic and intensive therapeutic programming for children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Our child-led programs include our early childhood program, and intensive in-home and community programs.
Megan Marco
Stonington Natural Health Center
Stonington, CT • 860.536.3880
info@snhc.com • snhc.com
Dr. Megan Marco has advanced training in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, the balance method, neuro-acupuncture, facelifts, herbs, pain relief, and fertility to give you the highest quality and effectiveness of care. Dr. Marco is looking forward to helping you with your health goals. Check out her videos and call today!
Dr. Myriah Hinchey, ND, FMAPS TAO Center for Vitality, Longevity & Optimal Health
Hebron, CT • 860.228.1287 taovitality.com
Tao Center for Vitality, Longevity, and Optimal Health opened in 2010 as a multidisciplinary wellness center, offering yoga, pilates, acupuncture, health coaching, nutrition, psychotherapy, massage, and more. Due to Dr. Hinchey’s research and success in understanding Lyme disease and its co-infections, Tao Center has become the foremost center for treating and healing Lyme disease.
VPG Waves offers LIBBE open colonics, noninvasive/painless GAINS/Acute Wave: Acoustic waves can improve blood flow and enhance sexual health, pain relief, and tissue/nerve regeneration. Copper ionic foot baths, Bio-Mat/Infra Dome for heat and grounding therapies. It takes a village—my thanks to CT providers for your referrals!
Bridge Healing Arts Center
Farmington, CT
10BEST WINNERS
Holistic Pediatrician
Dr. Molly DeMers, ND
Thrive Center for Health Glastonbury, CT • 860.200.8268 admin@thrivecenterforhealth.com thrivecenterforhealth.com
Dr. DeMers specializes in naturopathic primary care and consultative services for both children and adults. She utilizes a model of patient-centered care to help her patients achieve and sustain wellness through the lifespan.
Sarah Fontaine
It Is Well Integrative Partners
Middletown/CT • 860.270.0506 O ce@Itiswellintegrative.com Itiswellintegrative.com
Sarah Fontaine, APRN, specializes in family primary care from a functional medicine/integrative approach. She co-founded It Is Well Integrative Partners in Middletown with Austin McCaslin, APRN, where they combine family, faith, functional, and traditional medicine practices. They see all ages and accept most major insurances.
Dr. O’Hara is a board-certified Pediatrician & leader in training clinicians. She has written a comprehensive guidebook, Demystifying PANS / PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Desktop Reference on Basal Ganglia Encephalitis, available on Amazon and recentlypublished research on FRAAs and PANS/PANDAS. For information on her membership and mentoring programs, visit drohara.com.
Lara O’Neil APRN, CPNP
Thrive Center for Health Glastonbury, CT • 860.200.8268 thrivecenterforhealth.com
Lara O’Neil is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked with children and their families for over thirty years. She has completed additional certification in integrative health and healing, cranial-sacral therapy, and Reiki. She values and embodies the importance of mind-body-spirit and holistic health and healing.
Dr. Jaquel Patterson, ND
Fairfield Family Health Fairfield, CT • 203.254.9957 info@fairfieldfamilyhealth.com fairfieldfamilyhealth.com
Dr. Jaquel Patterson is a nationally recognized naturopathic physician, Amazon bestselling author, and keynote speaker. She runs a large multidisciplinary integrative medical practice, Fairfield Family Health. Her areas of focus are Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections, integrative psychiatry, environmental medicine, autoimmune conditions, and childhood developmental disorders.
Dr. Jared Skowron is an international leader in the biomedical, natural treatment of autism. Amazon best-selling author of the children’s health guide, 100 Natural Remedies for Your Child, Dr. Skowron has 20 years of experience helping children with autism recover. Voted Best Holistic Pediatrician five years in a row!
Dr. Julie Sweeney is a boardcertified pediatrician and integrative medicine specialist. At SproutWell, she offers personalized consults to elevate your child’s current care. Her whole-child approach includes the best of conventional medicine along with botanical therapies, dietary supplements and mind-body therapies. Learn more about consults and membership at sproutwellpediatrics.com.
Dr. Korene Varano, ND Roots Natural Medical Center Columbia, CT • 860.471.1434 106 Route 66 East info@rootsmedicalcenter.com
Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing the foundational root causes of complex chronic diseases. Roots is designed to properly identify, diagnose, and treat patients with unexplained chronic illness. Our services are individualized and patient-focused, as medicine should be.
RootsNatural Medical Center was founded with the intention of helping patients navigate and solve chronic disease in Eastern Connecticut. The clinic provides access to quality care, individualized assessments, specialized laboratory testing, and comprehensive therapeutics with the intention of resolving chronic disease. Dr. Zachary Moran states, “We are a clinic that wants to disrupt the current healthcare model of disease management. Every patient we see, we have the intention of identifying the root cause of their symptoms, providing an individualized treatment plan with a resolution, and discharging the patient with an education on how to maintain their health.”
Roots prioritizes the patient. According to Dr. Moran, “Our services are patient-focused, as health care should be. We pride ourselves on transparency, providing the patient the best treatment options and collaboration to direct their care.”
The doctors at Roots spend hours with each patient to ensure comprehensive care and provide adequate education so the patient can understand why their symptoms started, how to effectively resolve them, and how to prevent future reoccurrence.
“We prioritize education so patients can be informed on how to maintain optimal health,” Dr. Varano says. Roots has access to and utilizes some of the best diagnostics and therapies in the country to offer the most effective results. “We spend hours each week collaborating to advance our diagnostics and therapies to ensure our patients are given the best options for their care,”says Dr. Moran.
Dr. Zachary Moran is a board-certified and licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND). He grew up in Columbia, Connecticut, and has a passion for health and wellness, starting in athletics and fitness, then health optimization, and now reversing chronic disease. He specializes in chronic infectious diseases, gastrointestinal conditions, autoimmune diseases, and environmental toxicity.
Dr. Korene Varano is a board-certified and licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and Registered Nurse (RN). She specializes in oncology and alternative cancer therapeutics. She uses empirical research to guide the treatments in her integrative and personalized approaches to healing. Her care focuses on building hope, strength, and courage with each patient and family member she encounters.
Tanya Roberts is the office manager of Roots and everything in between. She is a very caring and compassionate member of the team who provides patients with encouragement and resources to improve their treatment outcomes at Roots.
Holistic Psychotherapy/ LCSW/Counseling
Jenny Alzate
Jenny Alzate, LPC, LLC
West Hartford, CT • 860.720.6138 jenny.alzate@gmail.com. jennyalzatelpc.com
Jenny Alzate is an hispanic integrative psychotherapist. She is also a certified mental health integrative medicine provider. Her clinical focus is on women’s issues, mood and stress disorders, family therapy, and childhood trauma. Jenny utilizes an eclectic clinical approach to help heal and restore the mind, body, and spirit.
Jennifer Brady is an LCSW with over ten years of experience specializing in treating anxiety disorders. She offers holistic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help clients heal from trauma and overcome anxiety by addressing both the mind and body. In-person and telehealth appointments are available.
Dr. Lori Calabrese, MD
Innovative Psychiatry
South Windsor, CT • 860.648.9755 info@loricalabresemd.com loricalabresemd.com
Metabolic psychiatry is where we use our deep psychiatric expertise, metabolic mastery, and approach to nutritional ketosis to transform your brain energy, lift depression, put bipolar into remission, tamp down anxiety, and produce clear thinking. Let Touchpoints 180TM restore your mitochondrial health to get you back to your best self.
Enlightenment Counseling Center
West Hartford, CT • 860.729.6138 enlightenmentcenterllc@gmail.com enlightenmentcenterct.com
We are a holistic/integrative counseling center with locations in Hartford and West Hartford. We focus on working with depression, anxiety, stress management, substance abuse, and PTSD. Our treatment is tailored to each child, adolescent, and individual we’re working with. Integrative psychotherapy medicine empowers the client.
Mischa Hadaway, LCSW, PMH-C CD(DONA)
Gentle Mama Counseling West Hartford, CT • 860.866.3941 info@gentlemamacounseling.com gentlemamacounseling.com
I am a perinatal therapist, working with moms up to and through the journey of motherhood to reconnect them with who they were before kids, who they are with kids, and how to figure all the other -ish along the way. Focusing on trauma, grief/loss, pregnancy/ postpartum not what you expected, managing disappointment, and work-life balance.
Dr. Vamsi Koneru, PhD
Koneru Psychotherapy, LLC West Hartford, CT • 305.321.5384 vkkoneru@gmail.com konerupsychotherapy.com
Dr. Koneru is a clinical psychologist who specializes in providing compassionate and collaborative psychotherapy based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral and dialectical-behavioral therapy. He appreciates working with adolescents and adults and believes in supporting individuals to feel accepted, develop effective life skills and move towards a greater sense of wellness.
James Osborne
ProNatural Wellness Group
Berlin, CT • 860.384.4971
jwosborne.ms.lpc@gmail.com pronaturalwellness.com
James is a licensed professional counselor with over forty years of experience as a psychotherapist, clinical director/supervisor, trainer, and consultant trained in Gestalt therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and EMDR. He works with individual adults treating trauma, loss/grief, and co-occurring disorders. He is also a Vietnam-era veteran.
Melissa Shute
Mind Power Psychotherapy and Hypnosis
Bloomfield, CT • 860.797.5306
mind_powerph@yahoo.com
MelissaShute.com
Melissa is a licensed professional counselor who helps people determine their story while clearing blockages along the way. She uses various techniques to meet her clients’ needs and empowers each client into independence. She believes in a mind–body–spirit approach, as each is important to the whole person.
June (Jake) Williams, MA, LP
CT NeuroTherapy
Rocky Hill, CT • 860.208.6964
june@ctneurohealth.com ctneurohealth.com
June began her career working with those experiencing intense suicidal ideation and self harm. Over her career, she has expanded her practice to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Neurofeedback/Neuromodulation therapy to address nervous system dysregulation, trauma and learning disabilities. As a queer trans person, she is also skilled in providing gender, sexuality, and kink affirming therapy.
Mindful Transformations
West Hartford, CT
Mischa Hadaway, Gentle Mama Counseling
10Best Holistic Psychotherapy/LCSW/Counseling
My name is Mischa, and I have nearly 20 years of experience in mental health counseling. As a perinatal therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals and families through the complex emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum life. I support women (and sometimes partners) through all stages of motherhood—from hopeful moms-to-be to postpartum and angel moms—addressing things like anxiety, depression, and trauma while empowering them to embrace their full identity beyond motherhood.
The experience of childbirth/motherhood is “supposed to be” positive and full of joy, but for some, it is the opposite. You did all the things right, but the outcome is not what you expected. Most of the time, you are so tired, feeling isolated, lonely, scared, and worried. For many, there is no glow, and the unknown feels anxiety-provoking. You worry you will never feel like or be yourself again, and you’re not sure what to do to help yourself feel better. This is where I come in.
I am deeply passionate about perinatal mental health because I understand how profoundly life-altering these experiences can be. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges of managing the expectations and realities of parenthood and the immense emotional shifts that occur when a family is growing. My practice focuses on those planning a family, currently expecting, newly postpartum, or grieving a loss or some form of trauma. I offer virtual and in-person, individualized sessions with flexible scheduling to ensure clients can access the care they need.
My holistic approach to mental health care sets me apart from other mental health professionals, which acknowledges the emotional, physical, and psychological changes that come with motherhood, addressing the entire perinatal journey. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel seen, heard, and understood.
My journey into this specialty was driven by a personal calling to support people during one of the most vulnerable and transformative periods of their lives. One of my favorite memories as a therapist happened when I was working with a new mother, pregnant with her rainbow baby. She described feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and disconnected from the joyful experience she had imagined. Over time, we processed her emotions, normalized her experience, and worked on building confidence while flexing her grace muscle. I vividly remember the day she told me she finally felt empowered as a mother. Witnessing that transformation was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do, and it continues to inspire my work with every client I meet.
I am here to help every mom embrace her journey into parenthood, both the highs and the challenges. If I can help just one mom feel less guilt, shame, or fear and more confident, that’s one more positive experience in her motherhood journey.
Holistic Weight Loss Center
Artemis Morris
Artemis Wellness Center Milford, CT • 203.783.9802 info@artemiswellnesscenter.com artemiswellnesscenter.com
Confused about how to eat for optimal health? We provide professional, personalized care to help you thrive and empower you with the healing power of food, the best nutritional supplements, holistic therapies, and lifestyle resources to live optimally and in harmony with nature. Join us for our seasonal Mediterranean Detox.
Natalie Colicci, ND, MS, CNS, CHt, MIFHI
The Center for Naturopathic Medicine and Functional Nutrition Trumbull, CT • 203.371.1021 o ce@drnataliecolicci.com drnataliecolicci.com
Dr. Colicci is a licensed naturopathic physician and clinical nutritionist. Her practice provides fully integrative holistic care. The wellness programs are designed to help you lose weight safely and effectively and maintain your weight loss long-term. Plans are customized for each patient to accommodate specific medical conditions and physical limitations.
Jane is trained in integrative and functional nutrition, using a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health.
Pamela Cipriano, DNP, APRN
IV Hydration Lounge & Med Spa
130 South Main St Thomaston, CT • 860.283.4249 ivhydrationlounge@gmail.com
Our Holistic Med Spa offers personalized weight loss solutions with IV vitamins, vitamin injections, PRF & radiofrequency microneedling for skin rejuvenation and skin tightening, and PRF biofillers for natural volume restoration. We blend advanced treatments with holistic care to support your health, wellness, and beauty on your weight loss journey.
We are dedicated to a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on integrating Eastern and Western medicine with integrative and naturopathic principles. Whether you seek relief from pain, help with stress management, fertility support, or simply want to enhance your overall wellness, we tailor personalized treatment plans to meet your needs.
Mary Gilbertson is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and clinical nutritionist with certifications in Functional & Lifestyle Medicine. We utilize the latest weight loss therapies, including individualized coaching, motivational skills, InBody metabolic monitoring, exercise prescriptions, supplement plans, & peptide therapy where needed. Experience superior results with us at Mary Gilbertson Wellness!
Food First MD is a grassroots metabolic medicine practice that empowers people to regain control of their health with the most underutilized medicine, food. This delicious, refreshing approach balances hormones and transforms how cells create energy, allowing the body to heal from the inside out. Visit foodfirstMD.com for more information.
Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PHARMD, MSAC Vis Wellness Center
Rocky Hill, CT • 234.222.8362 hello@drnicoleklughers.com drnicoleklughers.com
Dr. Nicole Klughers offers all-natural solutions to help individuals lose weight, restore optimal health, and reclaim a life of energy, balance, and confidence. Formerly a pharmacist, Dr. Nicole serves as your “health detective” by listening attentively and utilizing detailed testing to address the root cause of weight gain.
Joann Dunsing Hypnosis Milford, CT
Amanda Swan, APRN Glastonbury, CT
Dr. Christine Najjar, MD,
MS, MHP,
ABOM, Founder &
CEO
of Food First MD, LLC
10Best Functional Medicine/ Integrative MD/DDS, Holistic Weight Loss Center, & Nutrition/RD
Istarted
dieting in middle school by doing what everyone said:
“Eat less and exercise more.” I learned about counting calories and tracking points. I played sports or exercised at the gym daily after school. Fast forward to the year I finished my medical and nutrition degrees. I worked closely with obesity medicine specialists and bariatric surgeons, counseling patients on weight loss using the most up-to-date strategies, yet my waistline continued to expand.
By the start of residency, I experienced a new symptom: HANGRY. Late lunches led to brain fog, lack of focus, irritability, and anxiety. I was constantly cold, always hungry, and developed eczema. Despite mindful eating, meal prep, and tracking foods, I was sicker and heavier than ever. I felt broken. If I couldn’t help myself, how could I help anyone else? I kept learning, and eventually, something clicked. I realized it’s not just about physics and energy balance but about biochemistry and metabolism. Food triggers hormones, and hormones control body functions.
Within months of this epiphany, I went from a size 16 to a size 8. I was no longer hungry or cold but satisfied and comfortable. I could effortlessly remember things, and my focus sharpened. I felt in control of my anxiety and impulses, and best of all, I rediscovered self-confidence in all areas of life.
I am still baffled that despite routine doctor visits throughout my life, and even after becoming a doctor myself, I was unaware that I had struggled with a metabolic disorder since childhood. No pediatrician, internist, or specialist ever asked what I was eating or explained, “Your food is causing harmful elevations of a hormone.” I received little to no training in collecting dietary recalls, and it was rare to hear physicians inquire about their patients’ diets. When providers did offer nutrition advice, it was often based on outdated information. Most people unknowingly suffer because our current standards aren’t equipped to prevent, detect, or treat metabolic dysfunction—even though 88% of Americans show signs of these issues.
I started Food First MD to help you avoid years of frustration, ineffective treatments, and debilitating ailments. You have the power to change your health, starting with your next meal. It’s not too late, and you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Food First MD— I will listen, help you understand how food is affecting your body, and guide you toward real, lasting change. Fix your food, and you just might fix your life.
Hypnotherapy
Dr. Deborah Gilmour Farmington, CT
Hypnosis Haven New Milford, CT
Mind Matters West Hartford & Guilford, CT
Beverley Blass
Beverley Blass Integrative Health
West Hartford, CT • 860.206.1129
beverleyblass@gmail.com
beverleyblass.com
Dr. Tom Zinser’s work with Soul-Centered Healing through hypnosis is a deep, experiential, therapeutic experience. This work is facilitated by Beverley, trained by Dr. Zinser, as an exploration of the subconscious mind, allowing healing and transformation to happen where memories and emotions are held. Beverley’s work with you is virtual.
Joann Dunsing
Joann Dunsing Hypnosis
Milford, CT • 203.907.7710
joanndunsing@gmail.com
JoannDunsing.com
Joann is a certified hypnotist practicing for over 15 years. She helps clients to better mind their mind, through NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) known as Tapping, and the natural relaxed state of Hypnosis getting to the roots of your difficulties.
Yovanna More
Mind’s Eye Hypnosis
Simsbury, CT • 860.995.5815
Help@Minds-Eye-Hypnosis.com
Minds-Eye-Hypnosis.com
Break through the barriers holding you back and start living a happier, more fulfilling life. Hypnosis helps you overcome subconscious patterns, empowering you to break free and make fundamental changes. Unlock your potential and let your mind work with you for lasting transformation. Check our Google 5-star client reviews online.
Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH
Middletown, CT • 860.704.9054
mprousseau@sbcglobal.net micheleprousseau.com
Live your dreams! Restore your passion, confidence, and motivation; transform habits; achieve goals. Wake up each day to a life you are eager to live! Online sessions.
Melissa Shute Mind Power Psychotherapy and Hypnosis
Melissa Shute is an NGH boardcertified hypnotist and licensed professional counselor. She is professionally trained in and practices 5 and 7 PATH® hypnosis with most clients. Melissa believes in mind–body health. Every client who comes to her receives a customized plan and skills to use for a lifetime.
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200
The Sacred Journey Burlington, CT • 860.675.9706 jsgermaine@aol.com thesacredjourney.biz
Joyce is a certified hypnotherapist in private practice for over 30 years. She offers individualized private and group hypnotherapy sessions for adults and ageappropriate sessions for children. Every in-person or Zoom session includes client self-hypnosis instruction for continued self-empowerment and well-being.
Marcel Touponse is a hypnotherapist, sound healer, life coach, and tarot reader. He co-owns The Blackbird House and operates Blackbird Hypnosis. Marcel’s goal is to assist you in “becoming aligned with your mind.” He offers regular workshops on self-hypnosis and is available for small- and large-group tarot readings.
Integrative APRN/Nursing
Pamela Cipriano, DNP, APRN
The Practice of Health and Wellness
Thomaston, CT • 860.880.2525
130 South Main Street pcipriano@ppmlinc.com
Dr. Cipriano is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner specializing in integrative medicine, with expertise in treating Lyme disease and chronic illnesses. She offers personalized care plans, combining advanced medical diagnostics, natural therapies, and holistic approaches to support healing and optimize health. She focuses on disease prevention and patient-centered wellness strategies.
We are dedicated to a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on integrating Eastern and Western medicine with integrative and naturopathic principles. Whether you seek relief from pain, help with stress management, fertility support, or simply want to enhance your overall wellness, we tailor personalized treatment plans to meet your needs.
Mary Gilbertson is a boardcertified, Family Nurse Practitioner and clinical nutritionist with certifications in Functional & Lifestyle Medicine. At Mary Gilbertson Wellness we partner with each patient to provide comprehensive holistic care for the body, mind & spirit. We bring new and innovative therapies to help patients go from surviving to thriving!offered.
Perimenopause and medical aesthetics specialist, treating all shapes, sizes, and genders at Milford Med Spa with our amazing clinical team of nurses and a grief recovery specialist. We want you to “Look Natural, Feel Beautiful” inside and out on your Reverse Aging journey with us. $50 off First Service!
Christina is a graduate of the Yale University School of Nursing with a Master of Science in Nursing. She is also a certified functional medicine practitioner through Functional Medicine University. She fuses her conventional training with a holistic and functional approach to medicine by administering intravenous and subcutaneous vitamin infusions.
Megan Tantillo, DNP, leads Holistic Health Code, a functional medicine practice dedicated to root-cause healing. Specializing in digestive health, autoimmune conditions, and metabolic wellness, Megan and her team offer personalized healthcare that integrates advanced testing and holistic interventions. Through mentorship and patient empowerment, hhc+ supports healing, long-term health and vitality.
Maura Aaberg, CNM Glastonbury, CT
Shyma Andrews, APRN Fairfield, CT
Amanda Swan, APRN Glastonbury, CT
Cindy Wechsler, APRN Westport, CT
Life/Business/ Finance/Health Coach
Kathy Beach, MS, NBC-HWC Integrative Health Management, LLC Collinsville, CT
Leighanne Champion, CLC New Canaan, CT
Beverley Blass
Beverley Blass Integrative Health
West Hartford, CT • 860.206.1129
beverleyblass@gmail.com beverleyblass.com
Body-centered psychotherapy works deeply by connecting mind, body, and spirit, allowing individuals to process emotions stored in physical tensions and posture. This approach integrates awareness of bodily sensations with mental patterns, facilitating the release of repressed emotions and trauma. This allows healing and transformation to happen. Beverley works virtually.
Susan Cote
Everyday Harvest, LLC
Mansfield, CT • 860.942.0197
info@everydayharvest.com everydayharvest.com
Susan is a certified Life Coach through The Co-Active Training Institute. She helps clients get over the hurdles that are holding them back from stepping out of their comfort zone and into their empowered lives. She incorporates Wisdom of the Earth essential oils into her practice.
Dana R. Mascalo is an independent fiduciary advisor who works with high-net-worth clients, including individuals, families, and executives. Dana looks at a client’s entire financial life with a visionary lens, advising on investments, retirement and estate planning, stock options, life transitions, customized advanced cash-flow planning, and multigenerational wealth transfer strategies.
Dr. Aimee Montanaro, LAc
Integrity Acupuncture
Shelton & Westport, CT • 203.429.4406
draimee@integrityacuct.com integrityacuct.com
Dr. Montanaro empowers each client to take an active role in their healing process by implementing diet and lifestyle recommendations rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Various cooking methods, foods, and herbs are discussed in relationship to the client’s constitution, their chief complaint, and overall health goals.
Dr. Noto is an educator and a certified holistic life coach. She provides coaching to individuals facing challenges in their personal and professional lives. Her focus includes teacher and educational leader wellness, support service professionals, graduate student wellness, and individuals with disabilities and their families.
Jacqueline C. Ross, LLC
Litchfield, CT • 617.455.9679
jackie@coachjackieross.com
Coach Jackie is an ICF-certified PCC Career Development and Mental Fitness Coach, helping women professionals reach career heights without letting burnout take the lead.
Marcel Touponse
Blackbird Hypnosis
Wethersfield, CT • 860.416.3177
blackbirdhypnosis@gmail.com blackbirdhypnosis.com
Marcel Touponse is a hypnotherapist, sound healer, life coach, and tarot reader. He co-owns The Blackbird House and operates Blackbird Hypnosis. Marcel’s goal is to assist you in “becoming aligned with your mind.” He offers regular workshops on self-hypnosis and is available for small- and largegroup tarot readings.
Dana Mascalo
As a Managing Partner, Dana brings her passion for creative, holistic financial life planning to TrinityPoint Wealth. Truly committed to having a meaningful impact both in clients’ lives and at the firm, she carefully combines extensive industry knowledge and wealth management expertise with a unique planning approach—striving to make a positive difference one inspired vision at a time.
Dana advises high net worth clients with complex needs and is sought after by individuals, families, business owners and executives near and far. Acting as their personal CFO, Dana looks at a client’s entire financial life with a visionary lens, advising on investment portfolios, retirement planning, life transitions, exit planning for business owners, customized advanced cash-flow planning and multi-generational wealth transfer strategies. Dana believes that if clients are open to greater possibilities and are willing to realign their focus with an ignited personal vision, the highest level of fulfillment can be well within their grasp.
Owner Tara Cornish is an IIR Certified Reflexologist and Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher since 2005. She also specializes in Reflexology Lymph Drainage. These therapies are non-invasive and safe for everyone! Tara has seen amazing benefits, using these holistic approaches to help heal, relax, renew, and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.
Damato Chiropractic Center, led by Dr. Nick Damato, Dr. Bobby Abate, and Dr. Kayleigh Heath, specializes in chiropractic care for all ages, including prenatal adjustments and sports injuries. The team provides personalized treatments to enhance mobility, relieve pain, and promote overall wellness for our patients and their families.
At The Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury, our primary mission is to educate patients on living a healthy, pain-free lifestyle. Dr. DeFrancesco and his team take a holistic chiropractic approach, coupled with proper nutrition, exercise and a positive attitude to guide patients to a new level of health and wellness.
Kristina Mozzicato is board-certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork by the NCBTMB and has been practicing massage since 2009. She provides professional, therapeutic, customized sessions. In addition to massage, Kristina offers cupping, Medicupping, facial cupping rejuvenation, Thai Herbal Facial Poultice, and Gua Sha Facial Fusion.
Joyce Chung Quiros
New Beginnings Chiropractic
Bloomfield, CT • 860.206.8935
nbccares@gmail.com nbccares.com
Dr. Joyce Quiros, with over two decades of experience, is dedicated to family health and wellness. As a proud member of the International Chiropractic Association and is Webster Certified for pregnancy care, she emphasizes holistic, natural approaches, guiding you and your family toward optimal health through personalized and innovative treatments.
Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR
Sharon Sklar Rolfing®,
The Art and Science of Body Change West Hartford, CT • 860.561.4337
SharonSklarRolfing@gmail.com
SharonSklarRolfing.com
Rolfing® is a dynamic ten-session bodywork series that eases pain, improves flexibility, and restructures your body when you feel “out of whack.” Both a hands-on and educational approach, this work re-establishes natural order and balance after life’s injuries, stresses, or accidents. Feel free, move well, get Rolfed! Since 1981.
Dr. Jason Sousa
PROHealth Chiropractic Center South Windsor, CT • 860.432.7432
PROHealthCT@gmail.com
PROHealthCT.com
Dr. Sousa has travelled throughout the world educating thousands of people with the purpose of a healthier world. It’s his passion to provide first-class chiropractic care with professionalism, clinical expertise and compassion. He is pediatric certified through the ICPA. He is currently the Vice President of the CCC.
Drs. Jessica and John Tagliarini
Tagliarini Chiropractic West Hartford, CT • 860.236.2225
tagchiro@gmail.com tagchiro.com
Since 2006, Tagliarini Chiropractic has been at the forefront of Chiropractic care in the Greater Hartford area with a reputation for excellence in family wellness. By providing quality care customized to the individual’s needs, their patients are able to achieve optimal health and quality of life.
Naturopathic Physician— Fairfield County
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258 ext. 2 info@wholebodymed.com • wholebodymed.com
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, practices energy medicine and traditional naturopathic medicine and offers cutting-edge treatments for healing the injured brain. His innovative approaches to Lyme Disease have helped patients throughout New England recover from this challenging disease. Conditions treated include Lyme disease, immune disorders, allergies, pain, neurologic conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
Following the laws of nature, Dr. Sousa Cardoso helps patients live more naturally while providing real solutions to real health concerns. She utilizes homeopathy, botanical medicine, and hydrotherapy to support the body’s natural healing process. Simultaneously, she implements diet and lifestyle changes with the ultimate goal of restoring patients’ health.
Dr. Natalie Colicci, ND, MS, CNS, CHt, MIFHI
The Center for Naturopathic Medicine & Functional Nutrition Trumbull, CT • 203.371.1021 o ce@drnataliecolicci.com drnataliecolicci.com
Dr. Colicci is a licensed naturopathic physician and clinical nutritionist. Her practice is fully integrative, and she provides holistic care through her combined decades of clinical experience. Through integrative medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, and chiropractic, she designs individualized programs to meet each patient’s needs. Conditions she treats include autoimmune disease and metabolic and endocrine disorders.
Dr. Veena Dzik, ND, FIAMA, is a Naturopathic Physician and certified medical acupuncturist who prides herself in providing individualized care and attention to her patients. Using functional medicine, Dr. Dzik specializes in treating conditions including MTHFR, environmental toxicities, GI conditions, mood disorders, allergies, fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and tick-borne illnesses.
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Firisin combines advanced diagnostics, food intolerances, nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, botanical medicine, and mind–body techniques to individually assess and treat patients. She believes gut healing is the gateway to optimal health.
Dr. Laura Futterman, ND
Stamford Center for Natural Health Stamford, CT • 203.325.3535 scnh.info@gmail.com stamfordnaturalhealth.com
Dr. Laura Futterman focuses on healing mind, body, and spirit through energy medicine and nutritional and herbal remedies. Her focus is primarily on chronic illness, Lyme, GI, endocrine, and mold illness. Her goal is to treat and identify the underlying cause to heal the whole person.
Dr. Kenney, an experienced Naturopathic Physician, uses effective naturally based therapies to help patients optimize their health. An expert in holistic medicine, Dr. Kenney treats inflammation, women’s health issues, and cancer-related side effects like fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety.
Dr. Jaquel Patterson, ND
Fairfield Family Health Fairfield, CT • 203.254.9957 info@fairfieldfamilyhealth.com fairfieldfamilyhealth.com
Dr. Jaquel Patterson is a nationally recognized naturopathic physician, Amazon bestselling author, and keynote speaker. She runs a large multi-disciplinary integrative medical practice, Fairfield Family Health. Her areas of focus are Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections, integrative psychiatry, environmental medicine, autoimmune conditions, and childhood developmental disorders.
Dr. Robert Brody, ND Newtown, CT
Dr. Nina Manipon, ND Stamford, CT
Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Frank Aieta, ND
West Hartford
Naturopathic Medicine, INC
West Hartford, CT • 860.232.9662 draieta@aol.com • draieta.com
Dr. Aieta is a Naturopathic Physician with over 20 years of experience helping patients uncover and treat acute and chronic illness by supporting the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. He works to identify the underlying causes of illness and develops personalized treatment plans to address them.
Dr. Nicole Aviles is a licensed naturopathic physician based in Hamden, CT. She has a special interest in women’s health and pediatrics, including the management of gynecologic, hormonal/endocrine, and mental health conditions, acute and chronic pediatric care, as well as chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high cholesterol.
At the Connecticut Center for Natural Health, we provide a number of health support services, including naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, natural skin care, and mental health counseling. We participate in most health insurance plans.
Dr. Myriah Hinchey, ND, FMAPS TAO Center for Vitality, Longevity & Optimal Health Hebron, CT • 860.228.1287 taovitality.com
Dr. Myriah Hinchey is a Connecticut-licensed naturopathic physician and Fellow of the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS), with a specialization in the treatment of tick-borne diseases. With over 17 years of experience, Dr. Hinchey has treated thousands of patients grappling with chronic tick-borne diseases, encountering diverse presentations and challenges associated with these conditions.
Dr. Kerr is passionate about finding the cause of fertility struggles. She loves teaching patients how to live a fertilityfriendly lifestyle and supporting them with natural remedies. Dr. Kerr addresses male and female infertility factors and offers comprehensive fertility care.
Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PHARMD, MSAC Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill, CT • 234.222.8362 hello@drnicoleklughers.com drnicoleklughers.com
Dr. Nicole Klughers offers all-natural solutions to restore optimal health and help individuals reclaim a life of energy, balance, and joy. Formerly a pharmacist, Dr. Nicole serves as your “health detective” by listening attentively and utilizing detailed testing to identify and address the root cause of any health concern.
Dr. Dana Lapointe, ND, LMT, Esth. Sustainable Health & Wellness Canton, CT, & Virtual • 860.217.1171 AskDrDana@protonmail.com DrDanaLapointe.com
Lifestyle medicine with a personalized, holistic approach. Dr Dana helps revitalize your physical and mental wellness, restore your gut-brain connection, and regain lifestyle balance in chronic conditions: gut, diabetes, obesity, pain, fatigue, autoimmune, and skin. Cutting-edge mitochondrial screening and functional lab testing. Highly effective weight loss, blood sugar, and optimal aging programs.
Dr. Zachary Moran, ND Roots Natural Medical Center Columbia, CT • 860.471.1434 info@rootsmedicalcenter.com rootsmedicalcenter.com
Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing the foundational root causes of complex chronic diseases. Roots is designed to properly identify, diagnose, and treat patients with unexplained chronic illness. Our services are individualized and patient-focused, as medicine should be.
Dr. Lyndsey Maher, ND, MSAc and Dr. Alyssa DeSena, ND Soleil Acupuncture and Naturopathic Medicine Hamden, CT • 203.871.3262 admin@soleilholistic.com soleilholistic.com
We are dedicated to a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on integrating Eastern and Western medicine with integrative and naturopathic principles. Whether you seek relief from pain, help with stress management, fertility support, or simply want to enhance your overall wellness, we tailor personalized treatment plans to meet your needs.
Dr. Sarah Schindler, ND Ellington, CT
Dr. Dana Lapointe ND, LMT, Esth, CHt, CMWC
“The Lifestyle Doc”
10Best Naturopathic Physician
Ireceived my Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine in 2009 and have been practicing in Connecticut since 2010. With a creative and intuitive approach to healthcare, I add my fifteen years as a naturopathic physician to over twenty years as an esthetician, licensed massage therapist, and aromatherapeutic herbalist. Further study in clinical hypnotherapy, auriculoacupuncture and electroacupuncture, and a certificate in mental wellness coaching allows me to incorporate wholistic lifestyle counseling into every naturopathic medical visit and skincare or bodywork session.
I have a penchant for helping chronic sufferers finally uncover and address the underlying causes of their unique health challenges, using functional diagnostic testing and foundational lifestyle medicine. My experience has shown that for true healing to occur, the “medicine” is not something the doctor gives or does to the patient, but instead constitutes a cooperative, collaborative process. I believe in making a concerted effort toward healing with the patient, meeting them where they are, and never attempting to do more for a patient than they are ready to do for themselves.
My ideal patient has begun to see the shortcomings of the conventional approach and understands that taking a pill, while repeating the same detrimental lifestyle choices, will never create true health—that it will in fact often lead to a mental and physical “downward spiral.”
I want my patients to approach their wellness journey with curiosity and an openness to making healthy adjustments and laying a firm wellness foundation, leading to an inevitable “upward ascension” toward greater vitality.
I work to restore optimum function by reducing inflammation naturally and holistically. I have witnessed the real possibility of slowing the aging process and reversing chronic conditions, including gut and digestive issues, autoimmune and chronic skin conditions, endocrine and metabolic dysregulation, chronic inflammatory, pain, fatigue, and viral syndromes, and post-injury/ post-surgical musculoskeletal conditions.
I’m widely known for my highly effective, sustainable, lifestyle-based weight-loss, detox, and vital aging programs. I run a diabetes wellness group, a low-cost “ask-a-naturopath” monthly membership, and a premium year-long seasonal detoxification program. I have recently founded Health Empowerment Access League (HEAL), a nonprofit aimed at providing holistic health education and increasing access to natural-care options for those in need.
Michael R. McManus, CNC Forge Ahead, LLC Ridgefield, CT
Gina Barbetta, MS, RD IFNCP
Nourish by Gina, LLC
Middletown, CT • 203.206.3873
nourishbyginallc@gmail.com
nourishbygina.com
Gina is a registered dietitian with 25+ years of experience in pediatric and adult nutrition. Board-certified in integrative and functional nutrition, she specializes in gut health, digestive disorders, PCOS, cardiometabolic disease, and intuitive eating, emphasizing a holistic approach to health, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management.
Kathy is a national board-certified health coach specializing in cancer wellness coaching and cardiovascular wellness coaching. She can help you develop a personalized lifestyle and nutrition plan to reduce your risk and reach your wellness goals. E-mail me for my free Cancer Risk Reduction Evaluation to get started.
Donna Bunte, MSOM, L.AC, CTACC
Donna Bunte Whole Health
Stamford, CT • 203.698.0793
health@donnabunte.com donnabunte.com
For thirty years, I have passionately helped my clients achieve whole health by uncovering the root cause of imbalances and health issues. Using Chinese medicine, nutrition, herbs, acupuncture, qigong, mindbody techniques, and life/health coaching, I choose the best path with each individual according to their unique needs and goals.
Erika Dworkin, BCHN®
Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition
Supplements Specialist • Wellness Guide
Wethersfield, CT • 860.603.3069
vitathenawellness.com
Go from survive to thrive with Erika’s holistic nutrition and healthy lifestyle guidance. Her personalized introductory wellness assessments and consultations are available in-person and via Telehealth. She also offers a convenient online professional apothecary.
Jane Grant, RD, CD-N
Grant’s Nutrition & Wellness
Berlin, CT • 860.357.2282
grantj@grantsnutrition.com grantsnutrition.com
Jane is trained in integrative and functional nutrition, using a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health.
Dr. Beata Harasim PT, DPT, FAAOMPT
Radiant Health and Wellness
Farmington, CT • 860.266.7745
Beata@HolisticDrBeata.com
HolisticDrBeata.com
Empowering health through a holistic, integrative root cause approach, Dr. Beata specializes in gut health, nutrition, nervous system regulation, and emotional energetics. Expert care covers weight loss, digestive, autoimmune, and skin conditions, food allergies, anxiety, fertility, pregnancy, baby care, and more. Free masterclasses, group programs, and consultations—details on the website.
We are dedicated to a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on integrating Eastern and Western medicine with integrative and naturopathic principles. Whether you seek relief from pain, help with stress management, fertility support, or simply want to enhance your overall wellness, we tailor personalized treatment plans to meet your needs.
Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM
Food First MD
Windsor • 203.441.1075
info@foodfirstmd.com • foodfirstmd.com
At Food First MD, Dr. Christine crafts individualized nutrition plans transforming digestive health, energy levels, and hormonal balance. She addresses the biochemical impact of food, fostering vibrant, sustainable well-being. Each strategy is designed to fit seamlessly into patients’ lifestyles, promoting lasting change. Get in touch and start your transformation today.
Physical Therapy/ Personal Training
Dr. Sean Altman, DPT
Whole-Body Medicine, LLC
Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258
info@wholebodymed.com wholebodymed.com
Dr. Altman uncovers the root cause of a patient’s symptoms and designs a complete treatment plan. He uses advanced techniques and cutting-edge modalities for a faster and more permanent recovery. Sean has helped thousands of patients avoid unnecessary surgeries and escape decades of chronic pain using these methods.
Brian Cusano
Against the Grain Fitness, LLC Portland, CT • 860.478.0283 atgfitness1@gmail.com againstthegrainfitness.com
At Against the Grain Fitness, we are your neighborhood gym. A place of camaraderie and fun. We know you by name and genuinely care about your health and fitness. It is our pleasure to work with members from middle school age to adults 80+ years old.
Francesca Durant
Durant Physical Therapy
Glastonbury • 860.430.2344
2928 Main Street
francesca@duranttherapy.com
For nineteen years, we’ve served individuals from rehab to wellness with an individualized plan for your specific needs. In a relaxed environment, we believe in a manual approach to address functional limitations that cause injury. We believe there is a continuum with therapeutic exercise to attain your personal goals.
Kim Zengerle BS, CPT
Ignite Fitness Personal Training and Nutrition Coaching West Hartford and Avon, CT • 860.479.1833
Kim@IgniteFitnessCt.com IgniteFitnessCt.com
Ignite Fitness West Hartford and Avon are premier personal training and nutrition coaching facilities offering a complete fitness and wellness experience. Services include Private, Semi-Private, Virtual, and Nutrition Coaching, through a holistic approach addressing sleep, stress management, support system, and lifestyle in an environment that is individualized and socially motivating.
Dr. Monica Benco is an acupuncturist and TCM herbalist located in the heart of Old Wethersfield. Her specialties include mental health care, fertility support, prenatal care, and postpartum care. When she is not treating patients, she is busy teaching acupuncture classes at the University of Bridgeport.
Many Rivers makes acupuncture affordable. Our pay-what-you-can sliding scale is $25–$45 for community treatments and $60–$80 for private treatments. Our caring, experienced acupuncturists specialize in pain and musculoskeletal problems, internal disorders such as digestive and respiratory issues, and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Dr. Lyndsey Maher is a graduate of the University of Bridgeport’s School of Naturopathic Medicine and Acupuncture Institute. She sees various concerns in her acupuncture practice, from musculoskeletal disorders to antiaging and fertility. Helping women grow their families is as life-changing for her as it is for them.
Dr. Megan Marco has advanced training in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine, herbs, pain relief, and fertility to give you the highest quality and effectiveness of care. She loves helping you with your health goals. Dr. Marco is looking forward to helping you. Check out her videos and call today!
Matthew Maneggia
Connecticut Family Acupuncture
Glastonbury & South Windsor, CT • 860.633.6022 frontdesk@CTfamilyacupuncture.com CTfamilyacupuncture.com
Over 17 years serving central CT. Specializing in: chronic pain; headaches; digestive, autoimmune and other inflammatory conditions; women’s health and fertility; anxiety and stress-related disorders. Most insurances accepted. Work with our exceptional team of highly-trained, experienced and compassionate acupuncturists and feel the difference.
Dr. Aimee Montanaro
Integrity Acupuncture
Shelton and Westport, CT • 203.429.4406 draimee@integrityacuct.com integrityacuct.com
Dr. Aimee Montanaro is an acupuncturist and herbalist in Shelton and Westport, CT. She specializes in Traditional Chinese Medicine, addressing both acute and chronic issues while restoring the body’s functional and structural integrity. Dr. Montanaro’s approach is grounded in evidence-based research, and her needle technique is gentle yet effective.
Dr. Jennifer Pierre, ND, MPH is a leading expert in women’s health and a pioneer in integrative medicine. A naturopathic physician and public health professional with extensive training in acupuncture, botanical medicine and nutrition, which is reflected in her comprehensive treatment of chronic conditions including allergies, reproductive and digestive disorders.
Traver Garrity Acupuncture
Tolland, CT • 860.995.0317
acupuncture@travergarrity.com travergarrity.com
Traver specializes in acupuncture, cupping, and tui to treat chronic pain, orthopedic injuries, stress, and much more. Her practice stands out for the one-on-one attention each patient receives during their individually tailored treatments.
Dr. Jill Kleiber
West Hartford and Avon, CT • 860.503.3676 hello@WHAcupuncture.com WHAcupuncture.com
Our award-winning practice of board certified, licensed acupuncturists have performed evidence based acupuncture treatments for pain, anxiety and fertility since 2009. Our treatment approach includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping and all aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). We accept insurance. Open 6-days a week in West Hartford and Avon.
Wholeness Acupuncture Center promotes holistic healing based on the principle of the body as a system. Utilizing the powerful benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we serve to heal and restore the wholeness and harmony of the mind, the body, and the spirit.
West Hartford Acupuncture & Avon Acupuncture
10Best Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture
West Hartford Acupuncture and its sister location, Avon Acupuncture, have brought Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to the community for 15+ years. We provide relaxing treatments from highly educated, board-certified, licensed acupuncturists that may include cupping, electro-acupuncture, trigger point therapy, tuina massage, infrared heat, or herbal medicine to effectively treat a myriad of complaints. We accept as many insurances as possible, including HUSKY, Anthem, Aetna, United, Cigna, and VA. We are strongly committed to helping people from all backgrounds with: pain management, fertility, stress, and more.
Owner, Dr. Jill Kleiber says that “in college I suffered from Lyme disease and Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis). At the time, I was prescribed a month of steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers. I was losing optimism when I met an acupuncturist who treated me. My symptoms began disappearing within 24 hours! That event inspired me to study acupuncture.”
The providers at our company work extensivelywith fertility. There is joy in helping couples achieve their dreams in life through their families. Conversely, it is very satisfying to help people with pain and anxiety because the effects of those treatments are often immediately evident, like when a patient arrives with a walker and then forgets to take it home. A while back, I was at the playground with my kids, when I noticed a woman looking at me funny. “You helped me get pregnant,” she said. “Well, it worked!” Her daughter then toddledover and threw a shoe at her. There is no better feeling on earth than discovering your work has positively impacted someone’s life. These interactions keep me on this path. I aspire to grow our team of talented acupuncturists and administrators so that we can bring accessible, insurance-covered TCM treatments to other areas -then patients won’t have to drive an hour to see us.
Yoga/Pilates/Barre Studio
Hartford Sweat Hartford, CT
Caroline Kinsolving Virtual
Sacred Rivers Yoga Virtual Sanctuary Power Yoga Torrington, CT
Barre 44 is a boutique fitness studio offering Barre, Bounce (Rebounding), Strength and Pilates classes. The diversification of our studio offerings provides clients with ever-changing workouts to help each client achieve or exceed their fitness goals in a supportive and safe environment. Barre44 celebrates 10 years in Avon!
Kristin has been sharing her love of yoga and connecting with others for over twenty years, both on the mat and in the world. She leads yoga wellness and cultural retreats several times a year internationally and locally in CT specialty classes, 100-hour immersions, and 200-hour yoga teacher trainings.
Leslie Gordon, E-RYT-500, offers Zoom yoga classes to people nationally and internationally. Her style is non-vinyasa, gentle, and accessible to all. She has 20+ years of experience as a yoga teacher and welcomes you to join her on Zoom!
Certified yoga instructor offering specialized classes for pregnancy through the first three years of parenthood. Experience breathwork, pain management, and relief from discomforts, along with labor preparation. Post-birth, return for intentional healing sessions where you and your babies or toddlers can embrace yoga together in a supportive environment.
Barbara Ruzansky West Hartford Yoga West Hartford, CT • 860.953.9642 info@westhartfordyoga.com westhartfordyoga.com
West Hartford Yoga (WHY) is a locally owned studio welcoming all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. We offer power, gentle, hot, yin, restorative, and kids classes, diverse workshops, intro series, massage, and both 200-hour and 300-hour yoga teacher trainings. We are grateful for the support of our community!
10Best Yoga/Pilates/Barre Studio 10Best Energy Healer
Whatbegan decades ago as a way to cope with the stresses that come along with a young family has blossomed into the greatest gift of my life. After years of teaching yoga in studios, the pandemic forced a pivot, and I began teaching on Zoom. Of course, I thought it would be temporary, but I still hold most of my classes online. What surprised me was that many people enthusiastically embraced the Zoom classes and were happy to stay there permanently. Travel and weather were no longer an issue, and yoga moved to the privacy and comfort of home, dressing any way we liked, listening to our own music, and even having our beloved pets next to us (usually hogging our mats)! People were able to join from all over the country regardless of where they lived.
Zoom yoga has been a gift to me, and I invite you to join me! I send Zoom Links every Friday in a newsletter along with announcements of special classes and workshops I offer. Several times a year, I teach an in-person class at the Chi Healing Center in Canton. I welcome beginners and all fitness levels to my classes. I have a very practical approach, and my classes are gentle and mindful. If you’d like to receive my emails and links, please contact me at lesliewintergordon@gmail.com.
Duringmy decades-long career as a trial lawyer, I realized the amount of human suffering that attorneys, doctors, therapists, and others face can be overwhelming. The build-up of this toxic load took a huge toll on me, and I began my search for more holistic ways of coping. For over a decade, I have studied tai chi and yoga. In 2018, I became a Wim Hof Method Instructor as I realized the power of breathwork and cold exposure. For over four years now, I have offered yoga, breath work, and tai chi for my clients and have created a serene place, both inside and outside the office, to help provide them with coping skills. Organic herb, flower, and vegetable gardens that Leslie cares for, along with two Little Free Libraries, bring joy to the New Britain community and to my staff and clients. Oh, and the guy in the middle is our Dog Star Rescue dog named Ghost (dogstarrescue. org). He helps, too.
Embrace a Food-First Approach During Menopause
“During menopause, ovarian sex hormone production stops, requiring the adrenals to be the primary source. A diet low in cholesterol, combined with increased salt and stress hormone needs, can leave your adrenals struggling to produce adequate sex hormones, potentially exacerbating menopausal symptoms.”
–Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM
By Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM
Menopause can bring a wave of changes and symptoms, including hot flashes and central weight gain, as well as more subtle issues like bone density loss, fatigue, and forgetfulness. These symptoms are often attributed to hormonal imbalances, but with the right approach to nutrition, you can prepare your body for these changes.
In our practice, we encounter many women who have diligently followed conventional health advice—eating low-fat, low-salt diets, focusing on lean proteins, taking vitamins, and exercising regularly. Despite these efforts, they still face the frustrating effects of menopause.
Traditional health advice often overlooks a crucial factor: the role of adrenal glands and the specific nutrients required for optimal hormone production. Understanding the complexity of our body’s internal systems unveils the power of a food-first approach.
Understanding Hormonal Production
The adrenal glands are paramount in maintaining hormonal equilibriums. The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones, including:
• Aldosterone: Helps regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium and potassium levels.
• Cortisol: Plays a vital role in stress response, metabolism, and immune response.
• Sex Hormones: Including DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, crucial for overall vitality.
Cholesterol is the indispensable building block for all steroid hormone synthesis. Your body can produce cholesterol; however, synthesizing cholesterol is an energy-intensive process, particularly for the adrenal glands, which need an abundant supply to meet hormone production demands, especially during life transitions such as menopause.
How Modern Advice Taxes the Adrenals
Standard advice often promotes avoiding cholesterol and medically lowering its levels, which can impair your adrenal glands by depriving them of the essential substance needed to produce crucial steroid hormones. This forces the adrenals to produce cholesterol, a task they are not designed to prioritize. The process becomes even more demanding when salt intake is reduced, as the adrenals are then compelled to generate more aldosterone. High-stress environments further amplify this issue by requiring increased cortisol production, thus escalating the demand for cholesterol. During menopause, ovarian sex hormone production stops, requiring the adrenals to be the primary source. A diet low in cholesterol, combined with increased salt and stress hormone needs, can leave your adrenals struggling to produce adequate sex hormones, potentially exacerbating menopausal symptoms. A food-first approach includes ample cholesterol-rich foods to provide the raw materials necessary for efficient hormone production.
Top Cholesterol-Rich Foods for Hormonal Health
Before considering external hormone replacements, it is crucial to ensure your diet supports adrenal health with high-cholesterol foods. Consume foods that contain cholesterol bioidentical to the very cholesterol your cells need and use. These molecules are abundant and exclusively found in animal-based sources—not from plants, which contain sterols that do not match the intricate biochemistry within your cells.
If you build your meals with complete protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and eggs, you are consuming the correct form of cholesterol.
Upgrading to higher-fat, animal-based meals floods your system with the very building block your body needs, allowing the adrenals to produce on demand the steroid hormones your body demands:
• Eggs (especially yolks): Egg yolks are a powerhouse of essential nutrients and cholesterol. Incorporate extra yolks into sauces and dips to boost your dietary intake.
• Fatty Beef and Beef Tallow: Fatty cuts of beef and beef tallow are excellent sources of cholesterol. Adding beef tallow to meals enhances flavor and supports hormone synthesis.
• Organ Meats: The heart, kidney, and liver are rich in cholesterol and vital nutrients. Suet, the fat around the kidney, is particularly beneficial. Cooking these in butter, ghee, or beef tallow maximizes their nutrient potential.
• Full-Fat Dairy: Traditional fats such as butter and ghee, rich in cholesterol and fat-soluble vitamins, are ideal for cooking.
• Fatty Fish: Fish such as sardines and salmon are budget-friendly and packed with cholesterol, supporting overall health and adrenal function.
• Shellfish: Oysters, mussels, shrimp, crab, and clams offer a wealth of cholesterol and essential micronutrients.
A Comprehensive Approach to Hormonal Health
At Food First MD, we advocate for a holistic and personalized approach to health. We understand that believing in your body’s innate ability to self-regulate can make a profound difference. Providing your body with the right nutrients supports the synthesis of hormones and other biochemical products essential for navigating life’s transitions. We are committed to guiding you through these changes with expertise and care. Remember, the right dietary choices can mitigate menopausal symptoms and help you maintain balance and vitality. We help empowering women to harness the power of food to ease hormonal transitions naturally. Trust in the power of food and take charge of your hormonal health now. Visit foodfirstmd. com to learn more and schedule a consultation.
Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM, is a board-certified Internal and Obesity Medicine physician with a master’s in human nutrition and a bachelor’s in biochemistry. As the founder and CEO of Food First MD, she creates prescription-strength nutrition plans that target an array of chronic conditions, offering food-first solutions to food-first problems. Dr. Christine is driving the grassroots metabolic health movement, integrating food as medicine and transforming standards in healthcare.
The Colonic Institute is committed to helping spread awareness to the community about the importance of a healthy colon and living a more vibrant, positive and balanced lifestyle. We work in conjunction with Holistic Healers, Naturopathic Doctors, MD’s, and Chiropractors to help our clients achieve optimum health. Book an
Call 860.481.2702 to discover how the Institute can bring you into better mind and body wellness
4 6 West Avon Road, Avon CT 860.481.2702 @thecolonicinstitute colonicct.com
Sanaré Wellness Center offers Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) & BioCharger sessions to help you to achieve peak performance by recharging your body’s energy field, boosting cellular function, mental clarity, physical healing, and overall energy. Charge Your Life. Change Your Life.
is so much light on this planet, but many people are in survival mode right now. We have to lift ourselves up and ascend to our true potential. We are in a period of rebirthing and pushing through heavy layers of our personal journeys. Not many people can be the connector between the high and the low. I am like no other. I will show you the path.”
—Agnes Daddona, MA, Psychic Medium Counselor
Daddona is more than just a psychic medium; she is a beacon of light, a guide, and a healer who empowers individuals to embrace their true potential and live a life of joy and purpose. With over twenty years of experience and a unique blend of intuitive gifts, academic training, and spiritual dedication, Agnes has touched the lives of thousands around the globe, offering a pathway to connect with angelic realms, heal deep-seated wounds, and manifest a brighter future.
Agnes’s journey began in Poland, where she was raised by an intuitive mother and discovered her own profound connection to the spiritual realm at a young age. Prophetic dreams and an innate ability to perceive beyond the veil of ordinary reality marked her early years. This inherent gift, nurtured over time, has blossomed into a powerful ability to connect with angels, spirit guides, and loved ones who have crossed over.
Agnes acts as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds. She facilitates communication with those who have passed, offering comfort, closure, and profound insights to those left behind. Her readings are not only about predicting the future but also providing guidance, healing, and a deeper understanding of life’s journey.
A Holistic Healer: Nurturing the Mind, Body, and Spirit
Agnes’s approach is comprehensive, encompassing the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of an individual. She recognizes that true well-being arises from addressing the root causes of suffering, not just the symptoms. Drawing upon her extensive training in various healing modalities and her intuitive insights, she creates a personalized approach for each client.
Agnes’s healing work extends beyond traditional methods. She channels angelic frequencies, facilitating a profound energetic shift that promotes healing and transformation. Her clients often report feeling lighter, more aligned, and empowered to create positive change in their lives.
A Teacher of Empowerment: Guiding the Path to Self-Discovery
Agnes is not just a healer; she is a teacher who empowers individuals to take control of their destinies. She believes everyone has the innate ability to connect with their inner wisdom, access divine guidance, and manifest their dreams. Through her workshops, courses, meditations, and individual sessions, she provides the tools and knowledge necessary for personal and spiritual growth.
Agnes’s teachings emphasize the importance of raising one’s vibration, connecting with angelic support, and transforming negative patterns into positive ones. She guides individuals to recognize their own inner light and embrace their true potential as creators of their own reality.
A Life Dedicated to Service: The Journey of Agnes Daddona
Agnes’s path to becoming a psychic medium and healer was paved with personal experiences and academic pursuits. She earned a law degree and a master’s degree in sociology, specializing in human behavior, then furthered her studies in the U.S. before being called by angels to dedicate her life to spiritual work.
This unique combination of academic knowledge and spiritual calling allows Agnes to approach her work with a deep understanding of human nature and the intricate connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Her commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her pursuit of over thirty certificates in various healing arts, ensuring that she offers her clients the most effective and innovative approaches to healing and transformation.
The Agnes Daddona Experience: More Than Just a Reading
Working with Agnes is transformative. Clients are welcomed into a space of high vibrational energy, where they can feel safe to explore their deepest concerns, connect with their divine support, and receive profound healing. Agnes’s compassionate,
intuitive approach creates a nurturing environment for growth and self-discovery.
Her services extend beyond traditional readings and healing sessions. She also offers personalized readings, healing sessions, and workshops designed to meet individual needs.
The Agnes Daddona Experience: A Personal Account
One client shares her transformative experience with Agnes:
“I was a little intimidated to connect with a psychic for the first time, but my friend assured me that Agnes was an angel. From the moment I entered her spa, I felt at home. Agnes greeted me warmly and put me at ease. During the reading, she revealed details about my past lives and connected me with my deceased mother, which brought me to tears of joy. We talked about my life challenges, and she helped me see them from a new perspective. I felt a weight lift from my heart. The angel card reading confirmed everything we discussed, and I left feeling lighter and more empowered.”
This account highlights the profound impact Agnes has on her clients’ lives. She creates a nurturing environment for growth and self-discovery, offering guidance and support to navigate life’s journey with grace and empowerment.
A Message of Hope and Empowerment
Agnes’s work is a testament to the transformative power of human potential and spiritual connection. She reminds us that we are not alone on this journey, we are surrounded by divine support, and we have the power to create a life filled with joy, purpose, and love. Through her gifts as a psychic medium, healer, and teacher, Agnes illuminates the path toward self-discovery, healing, and realizing of our true potential.
Agnes Daddona’s message is clear: Embrace the light, connect with your inner wisdom, and step into the magnificent life that awaits you.
Agnes Daddona is one of the best Psychic/Mediums and healers in New England. The gift of intuition has run in her family for generations. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people worldwide through Psychic Readings, Mediumship, Channeling Angels, Counseling, Healing, and Teaching in English and Polish. Agnes has transformed many people’s lives to meet their dreams. She continues to solve the most difficult issues when it seems no one else can help. Agnes offers sessions in her spa in Avon, CT, over the phone or via Zoom. To book your Intuitive Reading, contact Agnes at www.AgnesDaddona.com, email agnes@IntuitiveCounselingLLC.com, or call 860.941.2667. See ad on page 59 >
Discover Lasting Wellness
Foundations of Joy: A 5-Pillar Approach to Depression
By Dr. Jared C. Pistoia, ND
“Physical activity… goes beyond just endorphins; it also increases other important brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and endocannabinoids. Each of these chemicals plays a role in regulating mood, focus, pain, inflammation, and sleep. The good news is that movement doesn’t need to be intense. Gentle exercises like yoga or tai chi…can offer similar mental health benefits as vigorous activity.”
—Jared C. Pistoia, ND
Depression is a growing health concern, and chances are that you or someone you know has experienced it. In fact, according to the National Institue of Mental Health, approximately 21 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2021—about 8% of the adult population. And depression rates have continued to rise in recent years. In 2023, a Gallup poll found that 17.8% of Americans were currently experiencing or being treated for depression.
This condition impacts everyone differently, with symptoms ranging from mild sadness to deep, debilitating lows. While medication can be helpful for managing severe symptoms, lasting change often comes from intentional lifestyle adjustments that target underlying causes. This is where the five-pillar approach comes in. Socialization, movement, nutrition, spirituality, and purpose are five key lifestyle components that play a significant role in the treatment and prevention of depression.
The 5-Pillar Approach
1 Socialization
Socialization is essential for mental health. Connection with others fosters a sense of belonging and emotional support, helping you feel less isolated and more connected to your community. Depression symptoms, however, can make it tempting to stay home and avoid social contact. When you’re feeling low, it’s crucial to take small steps toward engaging with others—even if it’s just getting out for a quick coffee or attending a
group activity like an art class. Simple, creative group activities can offer both social interaction and a mental boost.
2 Movement
Regular physical activity is one of the healthiest habits you can practice, especially for your mental health. You may be familiar with endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones released during exercise that boost mood and reduce stress. Physical activity, however, goes beyond just endorphins; it also increases other important brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and endocannabinoids. Each of these chemicals plays a role in regulating mood, focus, pain, inflammation, and sleep. The good news is that movement doesn’t need to be intense. Gentle exercises like yoga or tai chi, when done consistently, can offer similar mental health benefits as vigorous activity.
3 Nutrition
Diet is essential for more than just physical health—it’s crucial for mental health, too. Brain chemicals that influence positive feelings are made from nutrients in food. When your diet lacks essential nutrients, your body may struggle to produce enough of these mood-regulating chemicals. Certain foods can also contribute to brain inflammation, which is linked to depression and anxiety. Managing inflammation through diet often involves incorporating healthy fats that nourish the brain. The Mediterranean diet, rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods, is a great choice.
4 Spirituality
Spirituality has been central to human life for millennia. A belief in something greater than yourself can provide comfort, perspective, and a sense of purpose. For many, spirituality has traditionally been accessible through religious practices; however, today, spiritual engagement often takes more individual forms, such as meditation or yoga. These practices foster a sense of connectedness, not only to a higher power but also to others and the world around you. Regular spiritual practice can be grounding, helping you feel more centered and protected from the weight of depression.
5 Purpose
When you lack a sense of purpose, it can be challenging to find motivation each day. A clear purpose provides direction, energy, and a framework for finding meaning in life. Whether your purpose is rooted in supporting loved ones, making a difference in your community, or pursuing personal growth, having something meaningful to live for is vital for mental health. Purpose isn’t tied to a single path or stage of life—it can evolve over time. One way to cultivate purpose is to pursue activities that excite you and align with your values, sparking joy and a sense of fulfillment.
Putting It All Together
Each of these lifestyle habits may sound simple, but taking steps to integrate them can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re struggling. That’s why I designed Foundations of Joy, a fiveweek workshop crafted to help you build each of these pillars in an approachable way. Each week is dedicated to one of the pillars and includes an interactive activity led by a facilitator and enjoyed alongside others in a supportive group setting. In Foundations of Joy, you’ll gain practical insights about why each of these pillars is essential and how to incorporate them into your life for long-term mental wellness.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a brighter, more balanced life, visit our website to enroll and learn more about Foundations of Joy. Together, we’ll create the habits that bring more resilience, joy, and connection to your life.
Dr. Jared Pistoia, ND, is a Connecticutlicensed naturopathic doctor and clinical herbalist who specializes in mental health. He practices at Soleil Acupuncture and Naturopathic Wellness in Hamden, CT. Connect with him at 203.871.3262 or www.soleilholistic.com See ad on page 71 >
Thermography: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Breast Health and Beyond
By April Beaman, RDH, CTT
“Unlike
mammograms or ultrasounds, thermography involves no radiation, contact, or compression, making it a comfortable and safe option for women of all ages. The process is also noninvasive, which means it is gentle on the body, and its safety profi le allows for frequent use without risk.”
—April Beaman, RDH, CTT
Breast health awareness is critical to women’s health, and regular screening is essential for early detection and management of potential issues. While mammography is a widely known tool for breast cancer screening, thermography offers a noninvasive, radiation-free option that is gaining attention for its unique benefits.
Understanding Thermography and Breast Health
Thermography, or digital infrared thermal imaging, uses a specialized camera to detect and measure heat patterns and blood flow on the skin’s surface. This technique captures the body’s infrared energy emissions, which can indicate underlying inflammation, abnormal blood flow, and other early indicators of health issues. Unlike mammograms or ultrasounds, thermography involves no radiation, contact, or compression, making it a comfortable, safe option for women of all ages. The process is also noninvasive, so it is gentle on the body, and its safety profile allows for frequent use without risk. Thermography is valuable for assessing breast health because of its ability to identify physiological changes associated with inflammation and abnormal cell activity, making it a powerful tool for women interested in proactive breast health:
1. Early Detection of Abnormalities: The heat patterns that thermography detects can reveal changes associated with inflammation, unusual blood vessel growth, or other abnormalities that often accompany cell irregularities, even in their earliest stages.
2. Noninvasive and Painless: The thermography process is painless and does not require compression of the breast. Since thermography is noncontact, women can undergo the test without physical discomfort. This makes it especially appealing for younger women or those with small, large, or sensitive breasts, allowing for comfortable, regular monitoring.
3. Safe for Regular Monitoring: Thermography does not involve radiation, so women can monitor their breast health as often as they choose. This can be particularly beneficial for women with a family history of breast cancer or those at high risk, as they can monitor changes in breast tissue regularly without the risks associated with repeated radiation exposure.
Thermography as a Complementary Tool
While thermography offers unique insights into breast health, it can also complement other imaging techniques, providing women with a more comprehensive understanding of their health. Here’s how thermography can enhance other breast screening methods:
1. Mammography and Ultrasound: Mammography can detect structural changes in breast tissue, and ultrasounds provide detail on suspicious areas. While these methods only detect physical structures, thermography notices temperature changes that indicate these early shifts in cellular activity. Together, these methods offer a comprehensive picture of breast health.
2. An Early Warning System: When thermography identifies areas of concern that aren’t visible on a mammogram or ultrasound, it can prompt additional investigations or closer monitoring. For example, if thermography reveals a heat pattern suggesting abnormal cell activity, a doctor may recommend follow-up imaging sooner than initially planned. This can lead to earlier intervention and improved outcomes if any issues are detected.
3. Ideal for Dense Breast Tissue: Dense tissue can obscure small tumors, making them harder to detect with mammography. Breast density does not impact thermography, so it can be particularly beneficial as an adjunct tool to help ensure better surveillance.
Thermography Beyond Breast Health
Thermography is not limited to breast health; it can also screen the entire body, offering valuable insights into various health conditions:
1. Identifying Systemic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is often an underlying factor in health issues, such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune conditions. Thermography can detect inflammation throughout the body, allowing individuals to proactively address potential health issues.
2. Monitoring Hormonal Health: Hormonal imbalances can impact a woman’s health, including breast health, menstrual cycle, and overall well-being. Thermography can reveal patterns tied to hormonal fluctuations, such as estrogen dominance, which is associated with an increased risk of certain breast cancers.
3. Assessing Vascular Health: Thermography can detect abnormal blood flow, which may be an early warning sign for vascular issues like deep vein thrombosis, blood clots, or cardiovascular problems. Early identification can help prevent more serious complications down the line.
Empowering Women with Knowledge
Thermography empowers women to take control of their health through regular, noninvasive monitoring. It offers a safe, painless, approach to breast health and whole-body wellness, providing invaluable information and encouraging a proactive approach to health, allowing women to monitor and address potential issues before they become more serious. Thermography is a powerful complement to traditional imaging techniques, providing a full-spectrum view of breast health.
Taking the Next Step
At CT Thermography, our team is ready to walk you through the process, answer any questions, and interpret your results. Thermography works best when used alongside your regular checkups, creating a well-rounded approach that gives you a deeper understanding of your body and peace of mind. Connect with us at CT Thermography to take a proactive step in your health journey.
April Beaman, RDH, CTT, is a certified medical thermographer with the Professional Academy of Clinical Thermology and a professional member of Breast Thermography International. Beaman has worked in the wellness industry for over 15 years and provides medical thermal imaging for both women and men. She is the founder of CT Thermography, located in Farmington, with satellite offices throughout CT and MA. Connect at 860.415.1150 or CTThermography.com See ad on page 61 >
NAFLD: The Silent Killer
“It’s a fact that many processed foods…contain cheap, harmful vegetable seed oils, such as canola, soybean, safflower, cottonseed, and grapeseed. These inflammatory oils are not only detrimental to our arteries and cardiovascular health but are also toxic to our liver. Most fastfood joints, as well as some highend restaurants, use canola oil for cooking and frying—because it is cost-effective.”
—Kristina Mozzicato, LMT, BCTMB
By Kristina Mozzicato, LMT, BCTMB
Whenwe think about liver disease, what usually comes to mind is cirrhosis due to several years of excessive alcohol consumption. However, liver damage is very common even while abstaining from alcohol. In fact, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very real yet little-known epidemic in the United States. It is estimated that approximately 25%–30% of Americans are not aware that they have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
What
Is NAFLD?
NAFLD is referred to as the “silent killer” since it usually does not exhibit symptoms, and if it progresses to an advanced stage, it may be too late to save your liver, and a transplant may become necessary. Even young children following an unhealthy diet and who are sedentary are becoming increasingly diagnosed with NAFLD.
With NAFLD, there is fat present in the liver, with little to no inflammation or scarring. If it progresses, the condition becomes nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). With NASH, liver inflammation and scarring are more prevalent and if not treated, it can lead to cirrhosis (extensive scarring). At this advanced stage there is a risk of complications, including liver failure and liver cancer. Although the liver has the unique ability to regenerate, when it reaches the cirrhosis stage, it is usually too late to reverse the scarring, and a transplant is often the only option. Patients with NAFLD and NASH are also at greater risk for cardiovascular disease.
NAFLD is much more common than alcoholic fatty liver disease. Most patients do not experience symptoms, except perhaps fatigue. Poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle are common causes. It’s a fact that many processed foods, including cookies, crackers, cereal, and salad dressing, contain cheap, harmful vegetable seed oils, such as canola, soybean, safflower, cottonseed, and grapeseed. These inflammatory oils are not only detrimental to our arteries and cardiovascular health but are also toxic to our liver. Most fast-food joints, as well as some high-end restaurants, use canola oil for cooking and frying—because it is cost-effective.
Nix the Sugar
Contrary to popular belief, healthy saturated fats such as animal fat (tallow and lard), eggs, and butter do not contribute to NAFLD. Excessive sugar consumption is also to blame—whether it’s snacks made with table sugar or fructose consumption by eating too many fruits on a regular basis. Also, high fructose corn syrup, which is present in many snacks, candies, and sodas, contributes to the problem. A diet high in starchy carbohydrates is also to blame. This is due to starches being converted to sugar by the body. When there are too many carbohydrates and sugars, the pancreas must release more insulin, and then these sugars are stored in the mid-section and the liver as fat. This is essentially insulin resistance, which can also manifest as obesity, diabetes, and high triglycerides.
Managing the Health of Your Liver
Most primary care physicians will order a complete blood panel as part of your annual physical exam. Elevated levels of triglycerides and blood liver enzymes (ALT and AST) are indicative of NAFLD. An abdominal ultrasound will be able to further diagnose which stage of liver disease is present (NAFLD, NASH, or cirrhosis).
The good news is that in many cases, NAFLD and even NASH can be reversible. With an annual blood test (and abdominal ultrasound, if necessary), your physician will be able to make a diagnosis. It is recommended to limit or eliminate alcohol consumption while healing your liver. Make sure you’re getting adequate, quality sleep, as well as effectively managing stress.
Losing only 10% of your weight can also make a huge difference in the health of your liver. Intermittent fasting (fasting for at least 16 hours and eating one or two meals within a six- to eighthour window) can not only aid in weight loss/fat loss but is effective in helping clear out cell waste and repair your body’s cells (including liver cells).
A diet low in sugar and carbohydrates will greatly aid in liver detoxification and help to remove the fat around the liver. Following a ketogenic diet (high protein, moderate fat, under 25 grams of carbs per day) can be very helpful. This can include consuming low-sugar fruits, such as berries. To go one step further, you can implement a carnivore diet, which is essentially an intake of 0–5 grams of carbohydrates daily and zero sugar. This means avoiding all starches and fruits. The carnivore diet will assist with faster fat loss/weight loss while giving your liver a break from sugars. Taking the herb milk thistle and consuming two to three cups daily of organic coffee has been shown to reverse NAFLD in many cases, as well as to protect against cirrhosis of the liver.
It’s
Never Too Late to Start
As with most health issues, taking care of your liver health begins with proper diet, movement, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and getting enough rest. And remember: you don’t have to change every thing all at once. Even small steps forward are still steps in the right direction.
Kristina Mozzicato is a board-certified, licensed massage therapist and owns Abundant Health Massage Therapy & Wellness in Farmington, CT. She has been a 10Best Bodywork Winner in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 in Natural Nutmeg magazine’s Readers’ Poll. See ad on page 57 >
Rolfing®: Finding Balance and Harmony Within
“When will each of us take ourselves seriously and stop ignoring what our bodies are trying to tell us? If you are bloated and nauseous after eating a certain food, stop eating it. If you have a headache when you are stressed, stop and do something to relieve the stress.”
—Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR
By Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR
People come to me to experience Rolfing for many reasons. Some feel they are out of whack, some have old injuries that are resurfacing as chronic conditions, some want to age more gracefully, and yet others just hear about it and want to feel better without any specific goal in mind. What all these people have in common is that they are taking their health and well-being into their own hands.
Many people believe we develop in utero for nine months, are born, grow for eighteen years, and then start the slow decline. We accept deteriorating discs, back pain, mouth decay, hearing loss, bad posture, or forgetfulness as a function of age and something that just happens to us as we grow older. I don’t see it that way.
I see the gift of life as something to be nurtured, cared for, and taken as a lifelong responsibility. Our job in this life is to be the best version of ourselves. Dr. Ida Rolf, the founder of the Rolfing® Method of Structural Integration, saw the importance of structural stability as a fundamental stepping stone in human maturation.
Nurturing the Gift of Life
A child who has externally rotated legs may develop throughout their life with what looks like a duck walk. Those feet cannot properly ground that child; they may be prone to ankle twists. They might not move through the joints in the correct way and have issues with calcification, locked joints, instability, and pain as that child matures into adulthood and beyond. Going further, those feet might not provide the support that is needed to develop emotional stability as well. You cannot separate the body and the mind.
There is an order in nature and an innate order in our bodies. A client’s son was not walking yet; he would pull himself up and attempt to stand but would fall because he was on the balls of his feet. He did not have the experience of his heels contacting the ground. I worked on him for a few minutes as he stood holding himself up with his arms reaching up to a shelf. He was annoyed with my touch and interference, kicked out at me a few times, and then lowered his heel to the floor. He turned, looking shocked, and then smiled and giggled. We then did the same with the other foot. The next day, his mom told me he had started to walk. We just needed to wake up a response his body did not yet have.
That’s how I see my work as a Rolfer. We are waking up those parts that have either not functioned well from the beginning or have felt the injuries, traumas, and accidents of life. I work with my clients to create stability and normalcy in our bodies.
Our bodies are the vessels with which we navigate our lives. We look to create balance from top to bottom, side to side, and front to back. I encourage my clients to nourish themselves with healthy food, plenty of water, exercise, rest, and, most importantly, an awareness of who we are in the world and how we can be the best for ourselves.
Our Reliance on Medications Is Hindering Us, Not Helping Us
I recently had to pick up a prescription for a minor infection. I am not a drug taker, so my trip to the drugstore was a wake-up call. As I stood at the pick-up line, I gasped at three enormous walls full of baskets of medications ready to be picked up. I had never seen anything like that. The next
day, I heard a newscast about which medicine to take if you wake up with a headache. Or which med to take for indigestion or as a sleep aid. Again, I was shocked. We are a nation of medication takers, popping a pill for what ails us. In my own world, if I wake up with a headache, I look to find out if I slept wrong, if I was grinding or clenching my teeth, or if there was something else brewing in my system. I wouldn’t automatically take a pill.
Years ago, someone told me that he was on a statin drug so he could eat that bacon cheeseburger—the medication would handle it. I have clients who have lived on anti-inflammatories to take the edge off their pain, but they now have stomach issues from long-term drug overuse. Where does it stop?
We Need to Listen to Our Bodies!
We must stop ignoring what our bodies are trying to tell us. If you are bloated and nauseous after eating a certain food, stop eating it. If you have a headache when stressed, do something to relieve the stress. Even my dogs get restless if they do not have enough exercise. It is in their DNA to run, so I keep them—and myself—active. We can all be open enough to see the problem and find a solution that doesn’t involve medications that simply mask the issues. In pain? Find out why. Don’t settle for temporary relief when there is a lifetime ahead of you to be fully lived. Take time to know your body, listen to the signals, and get back to basics. Rolfing, as I see it, is designed to bring us back to neutral. We can shift those negative charges that interfere with our natural rhythms. We all want to lead happy, productive, and healthy lives, so we must take personal responsibility to ensure we function as we were meant to well into older age. Explore your issues, find your balance, and set yourself on a path of discovery to secure your wellness. Your long, healthy life depends on you being awake and in harmony.
Sharon Sklar is in her 44th year of private practice as a Certified Advanced Rolfer. She has been voted one of Natural Nutmeg’s 10BEST Bodyworkers for the last six years and is very grateful for the support. Sharon works with direct manipulation of the soft tissue of the body and movement re-education over a ten-session series to help her clients feel freer, get more balanced, and reduce chronic pain. Great for athletes, children, and adults recovering from the stress, injuries, or traumas of life. Inquiries are encouraged! State licensed. Call 860.561.4337 for more information or to schedule a consultation. www.SharonSklarRolfing.com . See ad on page 7 >
“Naturopathic medicine…holds that symptoms are clues pointing toward deeper, unresolved issues. By uncovering and addressing these root causes, naturopathic medicine aims to resolve health concerns at their source and minimize the need for ongoing treatments.”
—Dr. Michael Kane, ND
By Dr. Michael Kane, ND
Naturopathic medicine is built upon several guiding principles, one of which is “treating the cause.” This principle emphasizes addressing the root causes of illness rather than just alleviating symptoms. By identifying underlying factors that contribute to chronic health conditions, naturopathic practitioners can promote long-lasting wellness. To illustrate this principle, let us look at two common conditions: eczema and high blood pressure (hypertension).
Understanding the Principle of Treating the Cause
At The Connecticut Center for Natural Health, we seek to uncover what lies beneath symptoms, whether physiological, psychological, lifestylerelated, or environmental. In conventional medicine, the primary goal is often to relieve symptoms to improve quality of life. While this is crucial, solely focusing on symptoms can mask underlying issues. Naturopathic medicine, on the other hand, holds that symptoms are clues pointing toward deeper, unresolved issues. By uncovering and addressing these root causes, naturopathic medicine aims to resolve health concerns at their source and minimize the need for ongoing treatments.
• Eczema—Addressing Inflammation and Gut Health: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It is often treated symptomatically with moisturizers, steroids, and antihistamines to manage the itch and discomfort. However, when eczema is viewed through a naturopathic lens, the underlying causes, such as inflammation, immune dysregulation, and gut health, are explored more deeply.
• Inflammation and Immune System
Imbalance: Inflammation as a root contributor to eczema. Chronic inflammation can arise from various sources, including dietary triggers, stress, and environmental factors. Identifying specific food intolerances or allergies, such as to dairy or gluten, and removing these from the diet can significantly reduce the inflammatory response. Additionally, stress has been shown to exacerbate inflammation, so stress-reduction techniques, including mindfulness or acupuncture, can support eczema treatment.
• Gut Health and Microbiome Imbalance: There is a strong correlation between gut health and skin health. An imbalance in gut bacteria, also known as dysbiosis, has been linked to eczema. Our approach involves restoring gut health. For example, foods high in fiber—such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—are essential to support a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can help calm systemic inflammation and improve eczema symptoms. For more severe dysbiosis, we may suggest antimicrobial herbs to rebalance gut flora.
• Supporting the Skin Barrier Naturally: Eczema sufferers often have a compromised skin barrier. Natural topical treatments like coconut oil or aloe vera, which have antiinflammatory and antimicrobial properties, can offer relief without the side effects of conventional steroid creams. These natural remedies not only soothe the skin but also provide essential nutrients to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Naturopathic treatment also encourages hydration through diet and adequate water intake to support skin moisture from within.
• Finding and Addressing Root Causes of High Blood Pressure:: Hypertension is a prevalent yet complex condition with multiple possible causes, including stress, poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. While conventional treatment often involves antihypertensive medications, a naturopathic approach seeks to identify and address lifestyle and physiological factors contributing to elevated blood pressure.
• Stress Management and Blood Pressure: Chronic stress is a significant contributor to high blood pressure. Stress activates the body’s sympathetic nervous system, increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels, which elevates blood pressure. Identifying stressors and incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, are foundational naturopathic strategies. Additionally, adaptogenic herbs can reduce the impact of stress on the cardiovascular system.
• Dietary Adjustments and Nutritional Deficiencies: Diet plays a critical role in managing high blood pressure. A naturopathic approach may recommend a wholefoods-based diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Increasing potassium intake through foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, and avocados can help balance sodium levels, as potassium naturally counters sodium’s effects on blood pressure.
Dr. Mark A. Breiner, Featured in the Netflix Documentary "Root Cause" and Best Selling Author of "Whole-Body Dentistry"
Optimize Your Smile and Your Health!
Comprehensive traditional and holistic approaches to oral health care. We understand the "mouth-body connection." Come to the source: Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.
Experience the innovative BioCharger® NG at Imagine Float, your ally in revitalizing your spirit and illuminating your life. Tap into the restorative powers of voltage, PEMF, light, and frequencies and harmonics, all in one session.
290 West Main Street, Avon, CT 860.255.7771 • ImagineFloat.com Call 860.255.7771 to Schedule a session! Visit us at:
The Sacred Journey Center for Spiritual Studies
• Sessions/Workshops for Adults & Children, Study Groups
• International Retreats & Cruises: Shamanic, Yoga, Psychic & Custom
• CT Justice of the Peace, Host/Producer "The Sacred Journey" TV Show In-Person, Phone, Zoom, Skype
www.TheSacredJourney.biz jsgermaine@aol.com (860) 675-9706 29 Davis Road, Burlington, CT 06013
Nutritional deficiencies, such as magnesium, can also contribute to hypertension. Magnesium helps relax blood vessels, so supplementing with magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds—or with a magnesium supplement under a practitioner’s guidance—may help reduce blood pressure.
• Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health: Exercise is another effective way to manage high blood pressure, as it strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps manage weight. Moderate, regular exercise such as walking, swimming, or biking can support cardiovascular health, potentially decreasing the need for medication in the long term.
Integrating Naturopathic Treatment in Practice
A naturopathic approach to treating the cause emphasizes individualized treatment plans, as each person’s triggers for eczema or hypertension may vary. Comprehensive lab testing may also play a role, particularly in identifying food sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, or nutrient deficiencies that contribute to these conditions. Naturopathic practitioners focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, ensuring that recommendations can be maintained over the long term for optimal health outcomes. For example, if a patient with eczema has an underlying food sensitivity and an imbalanced gut microbiome, eliminating trigger foods and using probiotics can help resolve the condition from within. Similarly, a patient with high blood pressure may benefit from a tailored exercise routine, stress management techniques, and dietary adjustments rather than solely relying on antihypertensive medication.
The Benefits of Treating the Cause
By addressing the underlying factors, naturopathic medicine can lead to lasting improvements. Patients often experience not only a reduction in symptoms but an enhanced sense of well-being, improved energy levels, and reduced reliance on medications. Symptom management may offer temporary relief, but treating the cause empowers patients to take charge of their health and fosters resilience against future health challenges.
Dr. Michael Kane is a Naturopathic Physician at the Connecticut Center for Natural Health in Middletown. A graduate of Bastyr University in Washington State, Michael continually learns from his patients and takes the art of listening very seriously. Connecticut Center For Natural Health is located at 210 S. Main St. Visit
page 73 >
or call 860.347.8600.
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES Local Experts In and Around Connecticut
ACUPUNCTURE
Stan Baker Acupuncture
Stan Baker, LAC 35 Nod Rd, Avon, CT 860.836.1068 acupuncturestanbaker.com
Dr. Monica Benco is an acupuncturist and TCM herbalist located in the heart of Old Wethersfield. Her specialties include mental health care, fertility support, prenatal care, and postpartum care. When she is not treating patients, she is busy teaching acupuncture classes at the University of Bridgeport.
Dr. Aimee Montanaro
Integrity Acupuncture
Shelton and Westport, CT • 203.429.4406 draimee@integrityacuct.com integrityacuct.com
Dr. Aimee Montanaro is an acupuncturist and herbalist in Shelton and Westport, CT. She specializes in Traditional Chinese Medicine, addressing both acute and chronic issues while restoring the body’s functional and structural integrity. Dr. Montanaro’s approach is grounded in evidence-based research, and her needle technique is gentle yet effective.
West Hartford/Avon Acupuncture
West Hartford and Avon, CT • 860.503.3676 hello@WHAcupuncture.com WHAcupuncture.com
Our award-winning practice of board certified, licensed acupuncturists have performed evidence based acupuncture treatments for pain, anxiety and fertility since 2009. Our treatment approach includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping and all aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). We accept insurance. Open 6-days a week in West Hartford and Avon.
CBD STORE
Nature’s Gi s
304 W Main St., Avon, CT • 860.995.4444 naturesgi s-usa.com/
Nature’s Gifts is an independently owned, family run CBD Store in Avon, CT. Stress, sleep, and pain solutions available. Our knowledgeable staff will happily guide you through our offerings to find the perfect CBD product for your needs. Don’t pay too much for your CBD—stop in, say hello, and let us help you feel like you again.
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
Source Colon Hydrotherapy
Elizabeth Regal Columbia, CT • 860.634.7523 sourcecolonhydrotherapy@gmail.com rootsmedicalcenter.com
Colon hydrotherapy promotes hydration of the colon and loosening of waste matter, assisting elimination by natural peristalsis of the colon. Roots Natural Medical Center is offering colon hydrotherapy on our FDA-approved closed system device. Contact Elizabeth Regal, I-ACT certified colon hydrotherapist for an appointment.
Agnes Daddona is one of the best psychic/medium and healers in New England. The gift of intuition has run in her family for generations. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people worldwide through readings, mediumship, counseling, healing, and teaching. Sessions are available in-office, by phone, or via Zoom.
Kevin Ferry | Ferry Law New Britain, CT • 860.827.0880 kevin@ferrylaw.com • ferrylaw.com
Ferry Law handles personal injury and truck accident cases. Kevin Ferry is also a tai chi instructor and Wim Hof method instructor. He looks at each of his clients holistically and offers yoga, meditation, and tai chi to all his clients.
Kelly McCarthy
Beyond Words N Wisdom Winsted, CT • 860.806.9684 kelly@beyondwordsnwisdom.com
Kelly McCarthy is a soul reader, energy guide, writer, and intuitive graphic artist. She helps expand awareness and connection, empowering you to embrace life’s possibilities and harness your unique energetic frequency. Kelly offers both in-person and remote sessions to support your journey toward a meaningful legacy.
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200
The Sacred Journey Burlington, CT • 860.675.9706 jsgermaine@aol.com thesacredjourney.biz
Joyce is highly trained in crosscultural shamanism and energy healing modalities incorporating sound, color, journeying, ceremony, yoga, cord-cutting, and gemstone/ crystal therapies. Her 40 years of experience include advanced training in soul retrieval, spirit detachment, and extraction. Workshops, study groups, and international retreats are available. Sessions may be conducted in person, remotely, or via Zoom.
Akashic Records, Ayurveda, and shamanic Reiki practitioner, bringing healing into your mind, body and spirit through each of these modalities.
ESTHETICIAN/HOLISTIC & ORGANIC SPA
Kate Sobotka
Forsythia Skin Care Studio Woodbury, CT • 860.365.1500 forsythiaskincarestudio@hmail.com linktr.ee/forsythiaskincarestudio
Luxury, relaxation, and healthy skin are harmoniously offered in a cozy and inviting atmosphere at Forsythia. Facial treatments for all skin types, from antiaging to acne (both adolescents and adults), as well as brow, lash, and waxing services. Are you looking for experienced, passionate, and detail-oriented estheticians? Here we are!
Imagine Float is a peaceful escape from the chaos of your daily life with floatation therapy, cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and compression therapy. When used in synergy, they have endless physical and mental well being benefits. Make a renewed commitment to achieving inner peace, a physical awakening, and reclaiming your best life!
Valeria is a master esthetician and owner of Naturezza Wax and Spa. She is an expert in the most advanced skin care techniques with over 17 years of experience. Valeria’s philosophy is that through proper daily care, you can achieve healthy, beautiful skin.
Chrystal Moore-Pilkington
Pure Spa Wellness
Avon, CT • 203.910.3970
purespamobile@yahoo.com
PureSpaWellnessCT.com
Pure Spa Wellness offers holistic and oncology skin care, Reiki, manual lymphatic drainage, and rejuvenating body treatments. As expert clinical estheticians, we create customized experiences to promote relaxation and well-being. Discover an intimate environment dedicated to enhancing your health and beauty. Visit us to embark on your journey to wellness.
The Spa at Litchfield Hills Litchfield, CT • 860.567.8575 frontdesk@litchfield-spa.com litchfield-spa.com
The Spa at Litchfield Hills is a luxury beauty, health, and wellness destination located in the heart of Litchfield, CT with treatment offerings focused on holistic healing designed to leave you with a lasting feeling of transformation.
April Beaman, founder and medical thermographer at CT Thermography, specializes in advanced thermal imaging. With a focus on early detection, she provides breast and full-body assessments, equipping clients with essential health insights to make informed decisions for a healthier future.
Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT, is a pioneer and premier authority in biological and holistic dentistry. He is a health visionary with over 40 years of experience helping patients find solutions to baffling, unresolved health problems—even those seemingly unrelated to dentistry. Patients come from all over for his expertise.
ADAM BREINER, ND DAVID JOHNSTON, DO DAVID BRADY, ND, CCN
ELENA SOKOLOVA, ND JOHN D'ANGELO, MS, RPT SEAN ALTMAN, PT, DPT, CPT
Dr. Steven F. Hinchey, DMD
South Glastonbury • 860.633.6518
drhinch@agd.org • dochincheydmd.com
Thank you to our wonderful patients who trust our team to care for their improved oral health. A healthy, disease-free mouth will help your overall health. It is all connected—the mouth and the body. And we can help you get there.
Dr. Jennifer Letitia, MD
Optimal Health, Healing and Longevity
Stratford, CT • 860.980.0270
DrJen@JenniferLetitiaMD.com JenniferLetitiaMD.com
Functional integrative physician offering personalized precision medicine to comprehensively address health and longevity by determining the root causes of chronic illnesses and ailments, treating chronic infections, long COVID, mold, environmental toxicities, Lyme and vector-borne diseases, and more, while optimizing nutritional cognitive, hormonal, emotional, gut and other aspects of health.
Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM | Food First MD Windsor, CT • 203.441.1075 info@foodfirstmd.com • foodfirstmd.com
At Food First MD, Dr. Christine merges traditional medicine with personalized nutrition. Emphasizing metabolic health, she helps patients harness food’s power, transform their lives from within, and foster long-lasting vitality and well-being. Contact her now to begin your journey to optimal health.
Dr. Kevin H. Norige, DMD
South Windsor Smiles
South Windsor, CT • 860.644.0113 860.288.2111 • info@southwindsorsmiles.com
SouthWindsorSmiles.com
Kevin H. Norige, DMD, FICD, is founder and chief dentist at South Windsor Smiles. He is co-chair of the CT Dental Association Professional Development Council and member of the American Dental Society and the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Dr. Norige was also inducted into the International College of Dentists in recognition of his service in Nicaragua, Honduras, Mexico, Montana, and Maine. For 35 years, he has worked with patients to achieve healthy mouths and live healthier lives.
HEALTH FOOD STORE & GLUTEN-FREE/ORGANIC PRODUCT COMPANY
Uzma Zakir, RPh, founder of bloomHigher consulting, is passionate about sharing her expertise on the healing benefits of cannabinoids. By combining current
research, her experience in treating patients since 2015, and her pharmacy background, she has developed a unique approach for patient care and lectures extensively on best practices and cannabinoid science. Contact Uzma today to see if cannabis is the missing piece in your health and wellness journey.
BOOSTIE™ is an intentionally selected combination of organic sprouted nuts, seeds, and cacao nibs (some versions include electrolytes.) The vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, plant protein, and fiber have many benefits: heart health, cholesterol, brain function, blood sugar, immunity, and weight management. And BOOSTIE™ has more nutrients than any other one ounce of food!
Edge of the Woods Market
New Haven, CT • 203.787.1055
eotwmdeliveries@gmail.com • eotwm.com
Edge of the Woods, CT’s largest vegetarian market, has been a family-owned business for over 45 years. Featuring fresh produce from local farms, groceries with dairy and non-dairy choices, a variety of bulk nuts/grains/ herbs, a large vitamin and supplement department, a hot bar, a juice bar, sandwiches, prepared foods, and a full bakery.
Brenda Sullivan | Farm to Bath
South Glastonbury, CT • 860.266.5682 info@farmtobath.com farmtobath.com
Brenda J. Sullivan, herbalist, is the owner of Farm to Bath. Her garden, where she grows medicinal flowers and herbs for her bath and body products such as goat milk soap, balms, body sprays, butters and face serums. Brenda loves to share her love of the outdoors through her products.
Vitathena Wellness
A Store Without Walls
Glastonbury, CT • 860.646.8178
edworkin@vitathena.com vitathenawellness.com
20,000+ natural items (10% off autoship, FREE shipping over $50), nutraMetrix nutraceuticals, DoTERRA essential oils, other exclusive brands. Emailed recommendations, wellness assessments, and personalized lifestyle consultations. Contact Erika Dworkin, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®. Formerly Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe.
HOLISTIC CENTER/SCHOOL
Nina Veronesi | The Colonic Institute
Avon, CT • 860.481.2702
colonicsct46@gmail.com • colonicct.com
The Colonic Institute offers closed-system colonics by I-ACTtrained colon therapists. Additional services include bioelectric lymphatic drainage, ionic detox footbaths, ear coning, Reiki, and hypnotherapy.
Eclipse Holistic Living is a cocreative healing arts studio in Glastonbury. A destination to envision your future self and actualize your fullest potential. Offering alternative and complementary modalities, Eclipse becomes the portal for all who enter in to embody conscious awareness through intentional holistic living—well-becoming on our healing-growth journey together.
Gigi Adduci
Vitalized Performance Group
Glastonbury, CT • 860.430.2342
vpgwaves@gmail.com vpgwaves.com
VPG Waves offers LIBBE open colonics, noninvasive/painless GAINS/Acute Wave: Acoustic waves can improve blood flow and enhance sexual health, pain relief, and tissue/nerve regeneration. Copper ionic foot baths, Bio-Mat/Infra Dome for heat and grounding therapies. It takes a village—my thanks to CT providers for your referrals!
HOLISTIC CLEANSING & REGENERATIVE PRACTICE
Gigi Adduci
Vitalized Performance Group
Glastonbury, CT • 860.430.2342
212 New London Turnpike, Ste. D vpgwaves@gmail.com
VPG Waves offers LIBBE open colonics, noninvasive/painless GAINS/Acute Wave: Acoustic waves can improve blood flow and enhance sexual health, pain relief, and tissue/nerve regeneration. Copper ionic foot baths, Bio-Mat/Infra Dome for heat and grounding therapies. It takes a village—my thanks to CT providers for your referrals!
HOLISTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY/LCSW/ COUNSELING
Jenny Alzate, LPC, LLC West Hartford, CT • 860.720.6138
jenny.alzate@gmail.com jennyalzatelpc.com
Jenny Alzate is an hispanic integrative psychotherapist. She is also a certified mental health integrative medicine provider. Her clinical focus is on women’s issues, mood and stress disorders, family therapy, and childhood trauma. Jenny utilizes an eclectic clinical approach to help heal and restore the mind, body, and spirit.
Jennifer Brady is an LCSW with over ten years of experience specializing in treating anxiety disorders. She offers holistic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help clients heal from trauma and overcome anxiety by addressing both the mind and body. In-person and telehealth appointments are available.
Dr. Lori Calabrese, MD
Innovative Psychiatry
South Windsor, CT • 860.648.9755 info@loricalabresemd.com loricalabresemd.com
Metabolic psychiatry is where we use our deep psychiatric expertise, metabolic mastery, and approach to nutritional ketosis to transform your brain energy, lift depression, put bipolar into remission, tamp down anxiety, and produce clear thinking. Let Touchpoints 180™ restore your mitochondrial health to get you back to your best self.
Mischa Hadaway, LCSW, PMH-C CD(DONA)
Gentle Mama Counseling
West Hartford, CT • 860.866.3941 info@gentlemamacounseling.com gentlemamacounseling.com
I am a perinatal therapist, working with moms up to and through the journey of motherhood to reconnect them with who they were before kids, who they are with kids, and how to figure all the other -ish along the way. Focusing on trauma, grief/loss, pregnancy/ postpartum not what you expected, managing disappointment, and work-life balance.
Dr. Vamsi Koneru, PhD
Koneru Psychotherapy, LLC
West Hartford, CT • 305.321.5384 vkkoneru@gmail.com konerupsychotherapy.com
Dr. Koneru is a clinical psychologist who specializes in providing compassionate and collaborative psychotherapy based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral and dialectical-behavioral therapy. He appreciates working with adolescents and adults and believes in supporting individuals to feel accepted, develop effective life skills and move towards a greater sense of wellness.
James Osborne, LPC
ProNatural Wellness Group Berlin, CT • 860.384.4971 jwosborne.ms.lpc@gmail.com pronaturalwellness.com
James is a licensed professional counselor with over forty years of experience as a psychotherapist, clinical director/supervisor, trainer, and consultant trained in Gestalt therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and EMDR. He works with individual adults treating trauma, loss/grief, and co-occurring disorders. He is also a Vietnam-era veteran.
Melissa is a licensed professional counselor who helps people determine their story while clearing blockages along the way. She uses various techniques to meet her clients’ needs and empowers each client into independence. She believes in a mind–body–spirit approach, as each is important to the whole person.
HOLISTIC WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
Dr. Christine Najjar, MD, MS, MHP, ABOM | Food First MD Windsor, CT • 203.441.1075 info@foodfirstmd.com • foodfirstmd.com
Food First MD is a grassroots metabolic medicine practice that empowers people to regain control of their health with the most underutilized medicine, food. This delicious, refreshing approach balances hormones and transforms how cells create energy, allowing the body to heal from the inside out. Visit foodfirstMD.com for more information.
Pamela Cipriano, DNP, APRN IV Hydration Lounge & Med Spa 130 South Main St Thomaston, CT • 860.283.4249 ivhydrationlounge@gmail.com
Our Holistic Med Spa offers personalized weight loss solutions with IV vitamins, vitamin injections, PRF & radiofrequency microneedling for skin rejuvenation and skin tightening, and PRF biofillers for natural volume restoration. We blend advanced treatments with holistic care to support your health, wellness, and beauty on your weight loss journey.
Jane is trained in integrative and functional nutrition, using a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health.
Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PHARMD, MSAC Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill, CT • 234.222.8362 hello@drnicoleklughers.com drnicoleklughers.com
Dr. Nicole Klughers offers all-natural solutions to help individuals lose weight, restore optimal health, and reclaim a life of energy, balance, and confidence. Formerly a pharmacist, Dr. Nicole serves as your “health detective” by listening attentively and using detailed testing to address the root causes of weight gain.
HYPNOTHERAPY
Beverley Blass
Beverley Blass Integrative Health
West Hartford, CT • 860.206.1129 beverleyblass@gmail.com beverleyblass.com
Dr. Tom Zinser’s work with SoulCentered Healing through hypnosis is a deep, experiential, therapeutic experience. This work is facilitated by Beverley, trained by Dr. Zinser, as an exploration of the subconscious mind, allowing healing and transformation to happen where memories and emotions are held. Beverley’s work with you is virtual.
Live your dreams! Restore your passion, confidence, and motivation; transform habits; achieve goals. Wake up each day to a life you are eager to live! Online sessions.
Melissa Shute is an NGH boardcertified hypnotist and licensed professional counselor. She is professionally trained in and practices 5 and 7 PATH® hypnosis with most clients. Melissa believes in mind–body health. Every client who comes to her receives a customized plan and skills to use for a lifetime.
Joyce St. Germaine, M.Ed., CHt., RYT-200
The Sacred Journey Burlington, CT • 860.675.9706 jsgermaine@aol.com • thesacredjourney.biz
Joyce is a certified hypnotherapist in private practice for over 30 years. She offers individualized private and group hypnotherapy sessions for adults and age-appropriate sessions for children. Every in-person or Zoom session includes client self-hypnosis instruction for continued self-empowerment and well-being.
INTEGRATIVE APRN/ NURSING
Pamela Cipriano, DNP, APRN The Practice of Health and Wellness
Thomaston, CT • 860.880.2525
130 South Main Street pcipriano@ppmlinc.com
Dr. Cipriano is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner specializing in integrative medicine, with expertise in treating Lyme disease and chronic illnesses. She offers personalized care plans, combining advanced medical diagnostics, natural therapies, and holistic approaches to support healing and optimize health. She focuses on disease prevention and patient-centered wellness strategies.
Perimenopause and medical aesthetics specialist, treating all shapes, sizes, and genders at Milford Med Spa with our amazing clinical team of nurses and a grief recovery specialist. We want you to “look natural, feel beautiful” inside and out on your reverse aging journey with us. $50 off first service!
LIFE/BUSINESS/FINANCE/ HEALTH COACH
Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner
Dana R. Mascalo is an independent fiduciary advisor who works with high-net-worth clients, including individuals, families, and executives. Dana looks at a client’s entire financial life with a visionary lens, advising on investments, retirement and estate planning, stock options, life transitions, customized advanced cash-flow planning, and multigenerational wealth transfer strategies.
Dr. Aimee Montanaro Integrity Acupuncture
Shelton & Westport, CT • 203.429.4406
draimee@integrityacuct.com integrityacuct.com
Dr. Montanaro empowers each client to take an active role in their healing process by implementing diet and lifestyle recommendations rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Various cooking methods, foods, and herbs are discussed in relationship to the client’s constitution, their chief complaint, and overall health goals.
MARKETING/PR
Tind-All Creative Marketing
New Hartford, CT • 860.916.4561 deirdre@tind-allcreativemarketing.com tind-allcreativemarketing.com
A women-owned, full-service digital marketing agency, Tind-All Creative Marketing provides innovative and effective marketing solutions for your business. When you choose to work with our agency, a portion of your dollars go right back into the local community, to nonprofits that need it most. Our services include SEO, PPC, website design, branding, marketing strategy, social media, blogging, and much more.
Kristina Mozzicato is boardcertified in therapeutic massage and bodywork by the NCBTMB and has been practicing massage since 2009. She provides professional, therapeutic, customized sessions. In addition to massage, Kristina offers cupping, Medicupping, facial cupping rejuvenation, Thai Herbal Facial Poultice, and Gua Sha Facial Fusion.
Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR
Sharon Sklar Rolfing®,
The Art and Science of Body Change West Hartford, CT • 860.561.4337
SharonSklarRolfing@gmail.com
SharonSklarRolfing.com
Rolfing® is a dynamic ten-session bodywork series that eases pain, improves flexibility, and restructures your body when you feel “out of whack.” Both a hands-on and educational approach, this work re-establishes natural order and balance after life’s injuries, stresses, or accidents. Feel free, move well, get Rolfed! Since 1981.
Dr. Aieta is a Naturopathic Physician with over 20 years of experience helping patients uncover and treat acute and chronic illness by supporting the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. He works to identify the underlying causes of illness and develops personalized treatment plans to address them.
At the Connecticut Center for Natural Health, we provide a number of health support services, including naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, natural skin care, and mental health counseling. We participate in most health insurance plans.
Reformed is a naturopathic medical center specializing in integrative medicine and acupuncture. Dr. Engelhardt focuses on women’s health, hormonal balance, fertility, and gastrointestinal disorders. She is dedicated to uncovering the root causes of symptoms and providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Dr. Kerr is passionate about finding the cause of fertility struggles. She loves teaching patients how to live a fertility-friendly lifestyle and supporting them with natural remedies. Dr. Kerr addresses male and female infertility factors and offers comprehensive fertility care.
Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PHARMD, MSAC Vis Wellness Center Rocky Hill, CT • 234.222.8362 hello@drnicoleklughers.com drnicoleklughers.com
Dr. Nicole Klughers offers all-natural solutions to restore optimal health and help individuals reclaim a life of energy, balance, and joy. Formerly a pharmacist, Dr. Nicole serves as your “health detective” by listening attentively and utilizing detailed testing to identify and address the root cause of any health concern.
Riverstone Naturopathic Health
63 West Street, Suite B1 Litchfield, CT • 860.361.9494
Christina Amicone, ND, is a naturopathic physician seeing patients at Riverstone Naturopathic Health in Litchfield, CT. Her focus is on oncology/ cancer (including supportive therapies during conventional cancer treatments), naturopathic detoxification, gastrointestinal health (including IBS, IBD, and SIBO), women’s health (hormone imbalances, menstrual problems, and menopause), autoimmune diseases, and food sensitivities.
Dr. Dana Lapointe, ND, LMT, Esth.
Sustainable Health & Wellness
Canton, CT, & Virtual • 860.217.1171
AskDrDana@protonmail.com DrDanaLapointe.com
Lifestyle medicine with a personalized, holistic approach. Dr Dana helps revitalize your physical and mental wellness, restore your gut-brain connection, and regain lifestyle balance in chronic conditions: gut, diabetes, obesity, pain, fatigue, autoimmune, and skin. Cutting-edge mitochondrial screening and functional lab testing. Highly effective weight loss, blood sugar, and optimal aging programs.
We are dedicated to a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on integrating Eastern and Western medicine with integrative and naturopathic principles. Whether you seek relief from pain, help with stress management, fertility support, or simply want to enhance your overall wellness, we tailor personalized treatment plans to meet your needs.
Dr. Zachary Moran
Roots Natural Medical Center Columbia, CT • 860.471.1434
Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing the foundational root causes of complex chronic diseases. Roots is designed to properly identify, diagnose, and treat patients with unexplained chronic illness. Our services are individualized and patient-focused, as medicine should be.
Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, practices energy medicine and traditional naturopathic medicine and offers cutting-edge treatments for healing the injured brain. His innovative approaches to Lyme disease have helped patients throughout New England recover from this challenging disease. Conditions treated include Lyme disease, immune disorders, allergies, pain, neurologic conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
Dr. Stephanie Sousa Cardoso, ND
Naturopathic Healing LLC
Ridgefield, CT • 203.431.1688
info@drstephaniesousa.com drstephaniesousa.com
Following the laws of nature, Dr. Sousa Cardoso helps patients live more naturally while providing real solutions to real health concerns. She utilizes homeopathy, botanical medicine, and hydrotherapy to support the body’s natural healing process. Simultaneously, she implements diet and lifestyle changes with the ultimate goal of restoring patients’ health.
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Firisin combines advanced diagnostics, food intolerances, nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, botanical medicine, and mind–body techniques to individually assess and treat patients. She believes gut healing is the gateway to optimal health.
Dr. Laura Futterman, ND
Stamford Center for Natural Health Stamford, CT • 203.325.3535
scnh.info@gmail.com stamfordnaturalhealth.com
Dr. Laura Futterman focuses on healing mind, body, and spirit through energy medicine and nutritional and herbal remedies. Her focus is primarily on chronic illness, Lyme, GI, endocrine, and mold illness. Her goal is to treat and identify the underlying cause to heal the whole person.
NUTRITION/ REGISTERED DIETITIAN
Donna Bunte MSOM, L.AC, CTACC
Donna Bunte Whole Health
Stamford, CT • 203.698.0793
health@donnabunte.com donnabunte.com
For thirty years, I have passionately helped my clients achieve whole health by uncovering the root cause of imbalances and health issues. Using Chinese medicine, nutrition, herbs, acupuncture, qigong, mind-body techniques, and life/health coaching, I choose the best path with each individual according to their unique needs and goals.
Erika Dworkin, BCHN®
Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition
Supplements Specialist • Wellness Guide
Wethersfield, CT • 860.603.3069
vitathenawellness.com vitathenawellness.com
Go from survive to thrive with Erika’s holistic nutrition and healthy lifestyle guidance. Her personalized introductory wellness assessments and consultations are available in-person and via Telehealth. She also offers a convenient online professional apothecary.
At Food First MD, Dr. Christine crafts individualized nutrition plans transforming digestive health, energy levels, and hormonal balance. She addresses the biochemical impact of food, fostering vibrant, sustainable well-being. Each strategy is designed to fit seamlessly into patients’ lifestyles, promoting lasting change. Get in touch and start your transformation today.
PHYSICAL THERAPY/ PERSONAL TRAINING
Dr. Sean Altman, DPT Whole-Body Medicine, LLC Fairfied, CT • 203.371.8258 info@wholebodymed.com wholebodymed.com
Dr. Altman uncovers the root cause of a patient’s symptoms and designs a complete treatment plan. He uses advanced techniques and cutting-edge modalities for a faster and more permanent recovery. Sean has helped thousands of patients avoid unnecessary surgeries and escape decades of chronic pain using these methods.
April Beaman, founder and medical thermographer at CT Thermography, specializes in advanced thermal imaging. With a focus on early detection, she provides breast and full-body assessments, equipping clients with essential health insights to make informed decisions for a healthier future.
YOGA/PILATES/BARRE STUDIO
Leslie Gordon Yoga Mystic, CT • 860.970.4944 lesliewintergordon@gmail.com lesliegordonyoga.com
Leslie Gordon, E-RYT-500, offers Zoom yoga classes to people nationally and internationally. Her style is non-vinyasa, gentle, and accessible to all. She has 20+ years of experience as a yoga teacher and welcomes you to join her on Zoom!
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10BEST Naturopathic Physician & Holistic Weight Loss Center
• Listens, takes time, fi nds your answers.
• Discovers the root cause of symptoms.
• Uses detailed testing, not guessing.
• Provides safe, all-natural solutions.
Dr. Klughers is a licensed naturopathic physician, former pharmacist, and wellness educator. As a pharmacist, Dr. Klughers observed the limitations of conventional medicine in its ability to offer long-term, sustainable solutions for chronic health concerns. Oftentimes, patients could only take a medication for so long before another health condition, complication or side effect developed.
As a naturopathic physician, Dr. Klughers is often called a health detective, as her approach involves listening attentively to clues and utilizing detailed testing to investigate and find the culprit. Solving the case, she offers all-natural solutions to restore optimal health. If you’re like most of her patients, you are seeking an alternative or complement to conventional medicine. You want to get to the root cause of your health issues rather than take medications for the rest of your life. You prefer to live a life of wellness.
Her practice at Vis Wellness Center has helped many people just like you by treating their symptoms on a deep, core level that produces lasting healing and transformation. She understands that wellness is so much more than the absence of disease. Your health is the most precious asset you have. There’s nothing more important than getting proactive about your health, investing in your well-being, and choosing a lifestyle that allows your body to be a symbol of longevity and vitality.
Dr. Klughers provides care to individuals of all ages and all levels of wellness and helps people with health issues such as: fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight gain, thyroid disorders, digestive issues, autoimmune disorders, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, infertility, menopause, migraines, chronic stress, hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
