Natural Nutmeg October 2023

• Design a life with more peace and joy

• Harness your innate power to heal yourself

• Minimize the pain and daily stress you now embrace as normal

• Create a new prosperity mindset

• Make your well-being a priority over pleasing others

• Develop healthier, more loving relationships

• Connect with Spirit, your higher self, and your life’s purpose

By Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

46

By Jake Williams, MA,

Purpose

14

40

By Ray Beyor

Relationships

22

By Charleen K. Miele, LPC

Hey, I’m Dr. Diane!

Fall is here, and it’s time for everything pumpkin, apples, cider, and spices!

In the last few years, I’ve really been able to embrace this time of year instead of dreading it, knowing that winter comes next. I really do love the still-warm days but cooler nights, county fairs, the changing leaves, and changing my wardrobe to boots and jeans. At least for a few weeks, until I can’t take the cold and escape to Florida!

This month, we have some great articles on how to boost your immune system naturally, managing stress and anxiety, and natural treatments for cancer. Considering stress is a major factor in getting sick and disease progression, there are some great tips and insights in this issue to help you heal your body and stay healthy this winter. Since I’ve been doing more meditating, I’ve found that one of the ways to stay healthy is to focus daily on what I’m grateful for—and with Thanksgiving around the corner, it couldn’t be a more appropriate time.

our consciousness, boosts our energy, and enhances our self-worth.”

Practicing gratitude is a fundamental component of the law of attraction and learning how to manifest and create your ideal life. The theory is that to bring what you want into your life, you have to be grateful for what you already have—and you have to give thanks for what you receive in the future. This enables a constant flow of positive energy into and out of your life. If you are not thankful for what you receive, it will block the flow and you will have a difficult time attracting what you want.

your

Whether you believe in the law of attraction or not, the act of practicing gratitude makes us better people. Take a minute to see how you feel after the next time you thank someone for something. Doesn’t it give you a nice, warm feeling? And check in with how you feel after you should have said thank you for something and didn’t. Not as nice a feeling, right?

of check in with how you feel after you should have said thank for

Think of all the opportunities you have to show gratitude every day:

• You can thank your spouse for getting up early with the kids so you can sleep in.

• You can thank your kids for cleaning up their room.

• You can show gratitude to your assistant for helping you run a successful business every day.

• You can thank the server who waits on you for dinner.

• You can show gratitude to the person who bags your groceries at the market.

Practicing the fine art of gratitude is not only among our most important positive emotions, but one that links directly to physical and mental well-being. There is a special kind of magic in gratitude, for it raises our consciousness, boosts our energy, and enhances our self-worth.

There is a special kind of magic in gratitude, for it raises

Wishing you health and happiness,

Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Publisher & Owner, ELM Publishing

“ There is a special kind of magic in gratitude, for it raises

—Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

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.

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Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Diane@naturalnutmeg.com

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Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg.

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Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut. Please call for a location near you. (860) 508-0894 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com.

© 2007—23 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved. Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, with permission. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your feedback.

Don’t Miss Our 2024 10BEST/ Essential Living Guide

• Alternative Treatments for Stress Management

• 10Best Winners—10 Tips for Healthy Lifestyles

2024 Is Around the Corner... Start planning next year’s marketing strategy TODAY!

Jan/Feb

The Balanced Hormones and Fat Loss Issue

Mar/Apr

The Longevity and Brain Health Issue

May/June

The Healing Lyme and Autoimmune Disease Issue

July/Aug/Sept

The Healing Your Body with Energy Medicine Issue

Oct/Nov

The Boosting Your Immune System Naturally Issue

December The

Living Guide

and Stress Reduction

Down to Earth: Reconnecting to Our Sacred Rhythms

When thousands of stars could be seen at night and the first rays of light on a solstice morning pierced through ancient stone, women shared an undeniable connection and interdependence with the sacred rhythms of nature. Our ancestors understood the significance of cycles, whether they were biological, celestial, or seasonal, and guided their lives accordingly. Each season was respected as an equally significant and necessary progression throughout the year. Because of this, I believe our ancestors had a deeper appreciation for their place and role in the woven tapestry of the cosmos. Now, we are supposedly more evolved and educated, yet many of us struggle to find purpose, fulfillment, and the energy to make meaningful changes in our lives. While we work diligently 24/7 toward meeting obligations and expectations, many of us reach burnout long before we ever reach the version of ourselves we are striving so hard to become. In our attempts to constantly reach for perfection, we have forgotten one essential point: We are creatures of the universe, and as such, it is important to honor and embrace the natural rhythms that propel everything into existence. Each season offers a blessing and a challenge that, when understood, can offer the wisdom and energy needed to help us manifest the life we desire. Perpetual flowering is unsustainable—a tree cannot produce apples all year long. A time of recovery, dormancy, and development is not only crucial, it is the gateway to an abundant, benevolent harvest. Likewise, we cannot expect ourselves to consistently overextend without inevitably reaching a state of burnout. Aligning with these natural rhythms is the key to self-empowerment and self-preservation and is the alchemy behind personal transformation.

Elizabeth Egan holds a Master’s degree in education, is a certified Reiki master and vocal sound healer, and is certified in Integrative Health and Healing. Her practice and workshops specialize in helping women align with the seasonal rhythms of nature and the energy systems of the body to bring about significant life change, health, and well-being. To learn more about Natural Insights for Women, contact Elizabeth at 860.331.6345, email elizabeth@naturalinsightsforwomen.com, or via Facebook at facebook.com/energycoachingforwomen. See ad on page 15 >

Nicky Will Eat It!

Nicky Zooks, age 9, came up with the idea to help boost restaurants in our town by ordering his favorite food item off the menu from every food establishment and informing people of how great the food was, hoping they would order out more to help these businesses financially.

On his YouTube channel, Nicky Will Eat It, Nicky has reviewed several food establishments and the owners are extremely thankful for what he has done. He has been written up in a few newspapers; he has also been on the news, radio, and television. He has received a number of awards, including a Proclamation on behalf of the restaurant owners and the people in our community, thanking him for all of his hard work. He alsoreceived a letter from the President of the United States.

Nicky was nervous in the beginning; he wasn’t sure his idea would work. But as time went on, he began to realize his idea was actually making a difference. He has touched so many lives, and werecently finished writing an inspiring children’s book documenting his journey called Will My Idea Work?

Because of this experience, Nicky would like to have a bigger platform to help restaurants in many other regions and eventually would like to become the best restaurant advocate this world has ever seen!

This is the true story of a young boy named Nicky Zooks, who at the age of nine came up with the idea to help restaurants at the start of the pandemic by posting video food reviews to his YouTube channel to help the restaurants in our town of Bethel, CT, bringing people together during a di cult time. Email nickyzooks2020@gmail.com and visit www.nickyzooks.com.

The Energy Medicine Solution Retreat

October 12–15, 2023: Awaken, Activate, and Trust Your Inner Wisdom

Are you ready to experience a transformational four-day, in-person and virtual event that will transform and ignite the authentic YOU?

You will leave this experiential retreat understanding how to manifest better health, greater wealth, and more loving relationships. This is your chance to join host Jacqueline Kane and eight other special guests to make 2023 the year you become a better version of yourself.

It’s time to break the patterns of self-limiting beliefs! The Energy Medicine Solution Retreat will help you explore the ancestral pain that has been passed down to you so you can clear the roots of your suffering. You deserve to experience freedom in all areas of life!

The Energy Medicine Solution Retreat is the answer you’ve been looking for if you want to:

•Design a life with more peace and joy

•Harness your innate power to heal yourself

•Minimize the pain and daily stress you now embrace as normal

•Create a new prosperity mindset

•Make your well-being a priority over pleasing others

•Develop healthier, more loving relationships

•Connect with Spirit, your higher self, and your life’s purpose

The Energy Medicine Retreat will be a joyful, celebratory, and life-changing weekend. Please join us as we help guide you to see yourself in a whole new way.

For more details about the retreat and our personalized Accelerator Program, visit bit.ly/EnergyRetreat2023.

See ad on Inside Front Cover >

Therapeutic Massage: Enhancing Well-Being in a Clinical Setting

In today’s fast-paced world, stress and physical ailments have become increasingly common. Therapeutic massage has emerged as a powerful tool to alleviate pain, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being. As a licensed massage therapist, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of therapeutic massage within a clinical setting, treating a wide range of pathologies.

Therapeutic massage is versatile and effective in addressing numerous pathologies, particularly musculoskeletal disorders such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and arthritis. Specialized techniques used in therapeutic massage can release tension, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility, providing relief and enhancing the quality of life for patients.

When comparing different massage techniques, Swedish massage primarily focuses on relaxation and tension reduction through long, flowing strokes and gentle kneading. Deep tissue massage, on the other hand, targets deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue with intense pressure to alleviate chronic pain and improve flexibility.

Therapeutic massage goes beyond these techniques by incorporating various modalities such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and stretching exercises. It customizes the treatment to address specific conditions and individual needs, aiming to relieve pain, restore balance, and address the root cause of discomfort.

In a clinical setting, therapeutic massage plays a vital role in promoting healing and overall well-being. Its ability to address a wide range of pathologies, from chronic pain to stress-related conditions, makes it an invaluable treatment option. By combining the best elements of Swedish and deep tissue massage, therapeutic massage offers a holistic approach tailored to individual needs. As a licensed massage therapist, I am honored to witness the positive transformations therapeutic massage brings to the lives of my clients, helping them achieve optimal health and vitality.

Cyndi Aure Rodriguez, LMT, Reiki Practitioner, Certified Sound Healer at Wholeness Acupuncture Center in Farmington, CT. Contact wholenessacupuncturecenter@ gmail.com and visit wholenessacupuncturecenter.com.

Empowering Women: The Role of Thermography in Breast Health Assessment

Inwomen’s health, vigilance and early detection are pivotal in ensuring well-being. Mammograms have long been the gold standard for breast cancer screening, but a lesser-known yet equally important tool is emerging – thermography. This safe, non-invasive imaging technique offers compelling reasons why every woman should consider it a valuable addition to her breast health regimen.

Thermography, also known as thermal imaging, utilizes infrared technology to detect variations in skin temperature. Unlike mammograms, which involve radiation exposure and breast compression, thermography poses no risk and is painless. This makes it an ideal option for women of all ages, especially those with dense breast tissue or who have concerns about radiation exposure.

One of the key advantages of thermography is its ability to detect physiological changes in breast tissue. It can identify early signs of inflammation, angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), and abnormal heat patterns that may indicate underlying issues. This proactive approach enables women to monitor their breast health continuously and detect potential problems at an early, more treatable stage.

Thermography is not a replacement for traditional breast imaging but rather a complementary tool. However, the use of thermography can provide additional information that can create a more comprehensive breast health assessment. Early detection saves lives, and thermography’s ability to detect changes in the breast years before other methods is a compelling reason for its consideration.

Empowering women with the knowledge and tools to take charge of their breast health is paramount. Thermography offers a safe, non-invasive, and proactive approach to breast health assessment, giving women an invaluable edge in early detection and prevention. It’s time for women to explore the benefits of thermography and make informed decisions about their breast health. After all, an informed choice today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.

April Beaman, RDH, CTT, medical thermographer, is certified by the Professional Academy of Clinical Thermology and a professional member of Breast Thermography International. She is the founder of CT Thermography, located in Farmington, with satellite o ces in Glastonbury, Hamden, Westport, CT, and Hadley, MA. Connect at 860.415.1150 or CTThermography.com. See ad on page 37 >

Connecticut Author’s Debut Book Reveals Insights into Trauma and Healing After Sexual Assault

With her debut publication, Hurt, Healing, and Hope: Thriving Beyond Sexual Assault, Connecticut author Melissa B. Lombardo reveals rare insights into healing from one survivor’s perspective, accompanied by thoughtprovoking stories inspired by other survivors.

Hurt, Healing, and Hope is a journey of many emotions and unrelenting obstacles, meant to be shared as a resource, reference, and performance piece, ultimately leading the way forward. The book includes original illustrations by Nicaraguan artist Eduardo Arias Cruz, a foreword written by the YWCA New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service, study guide questions, resources, a reference section, and space for a reader or performer to take notes and journal their own hurt, healing, and hope.

Lombardo’s mission is that from reading or listening to and connecting with one of the monologues, other survivors will be encouraged to take the path of healing and thriving for themselves—or to help another do so.

Books are on sale via Melissa’s website www.writehealthrive.com, and other online sites, including an online store featuring curated items made by survivors and healing allies: etsy.com/shop/WriteHealThrive. A portion of book sales and performance licensing benefit area rape crisis centers in Connecticut.

Melissa Lombardo is an author, business founder, and Crisis Advocate. She is a Glastonbury native who lived in Nicaragua for two decades and currently resides in West Hartford. Visit her website to learn more and follow her on social media: @melissablombardoauthor.

The Sacred Journey Healing Practices

Whether generated through sound via voice or instruments, color, stones, crystals, visualization, prayer, or intention, all healing happens energetically. When a request is made or a thought arises to offer healing energies to any person, animal, place, or group, energy is at work. Thoughts are a form of energy that the healer has received and now begins the practice of setting an intention to connect to the being, place, or group to offer channeled healing energies.

This is always done with respect to the free will of all, not dictating how healing will happen and not attaching to the outcome of the work. Whether the energy is sent remotely or through hands-on modalities, it is offered without condition, as a gift of love the recipients may use as they wish for their greatest good.

It is helpful to consider the role empathy plays in energy healing. In over 40 years of energy work, I have come to realize that empathy on its own isn’t such a useful tool. Empathy should be used in small doses, just enough for the healer to gather necessary information. Empathy in too large a dose has the potential to duplicate suffering rather than offer healing. Used appropriately, it reminds us that we are all connected—its ultimate gift.

At The Sacred Journey in Burlington, CT, I offer Shamanic Journeying and Energy Practices, Sound Healing, Crystal and Stone Healing, Past Life Regression, Soul Retrieval, Extraction, Spirit Detachment, Yoga, and Hypnotherapy. I also lead monthly study groups, children’s events, and Shamanism and Yoga Retreats in Costa Rica, Belize, Sedona, Santa Fe, and Taos.

True healing happens when the energy healer, through compassion, transforms the energy of awareness into selfless service. Compassionate, selfless service is the highest honor bestowed upon any energy healer. It is a pure, heart-centered practice.

CT’s Top Holistic Psychotherapy, LCSW, and Life Coach

Holistic psychotherapy uses traditional methods of psychotherapy along with nontraditional approaches to accomplish the deepest level of healing possible. The mind, body, and spirit are viewed as one unit, working in harmony and seeking integration and balance.

Life Coaches guide you to specific business and personal goals and transitions in many areas of your life. They help you grow by analyzing your current situation, identifying limiting beliefs and obstacles you face, and devising a custom plan of action to help you achieve your goals.

The Enlightenment Counseling Center

TheEnlightenment Counseling Center is a clinical group practice made of licensed psychotherapists that provide a holistic approach to improving and healing your mental health.

Mental and emotional wellness is our goal. It is our mission to help our patients heal—mind, body, and spirit. Each clinician on our team offers their own unique blend of magic by combining traditional psychotherapy with complementary and alternative medicine. To address your mental health needs, we provide clinical interventions such as EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, and IFS.

Our clinicians are certified yoga instructors, Reiki practitioners, mind–body and energy medicine trained and certified expressive arts therapists, and mindfulness-based stress reduction teachers. All these modalities support the calming and resetting of the central nervous system

We understand that our mental health is heavily affected by unprocessed emotional wounds and painful life experiences that have continued to impact our lives and decisions unconsciously. This leads to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many other mental disbalances.

As integrative psychotherapists, we focus on empowering our clients with not only clinical support and stabilization but, ideally, in supporting them in making lifestyle changes that nourish and sustain the healed versions of themselves. These lifestyle changes may center around nutrition, integration of affirmations and positive self-talk, working with the law of attraction and manifestation, increased body movement, meditation, yoga, and breathwork.

The ECC is here to help you clinically and by using complementary and alternative medicine to help you find inner peace, joy, and happiness. We are currently accepting new clients in our Hartford and West Hartford offices. Please call the referral line at 860.729.3284 and check out our website for more info: enlightenmentcenterct.com.

Ray Beyor, Life Coach

Atjust 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing nearly 200 pounds, I escaped an abusive work environment with an annual income barely reaching $35k. As I drove home, dread consumed me, knowing I was returning to an unsupportive, passionless marriage. My circumstances had plunged me into a deep depression, making me understand why people contemplate drastic measures. Change was imperative; I needed to find something that would reignite my zest for life.

Despite looming feelings of failure, I took a scary leap toward a new life to avoid a perilous path of depression and chronic pain. This pivotal decision transformed my life. Starting my own business during the hardest time in my life led to autonomy, financial success, and rediscovering my passions. Additionally, I began to feel amazing, be my healthy self, build a supportive community of friends, and find so many loving relationships once I came out as polyamorous.

Over a decade later, I am now a Life Coach, drawing upon my personal journey and diverse background as a yoga instructor, sculptor, dancer, entrepreneur, and recovering codependent child of alcoholics. My coaching approach acts as a catalyst, rekindling self-confidence and self-love within my clients. They express a newfound vitality, a refreshed connection to their unique qualities, and the courage to take bold steps in sharing these gifts with the world.

If my story resonates with you, please explore my Free Digital Training at raylifecoaching.com/free-resources. There, you’ll discover tools like “Don’t Shut Up, Just Stand Up: Confidence Toolkit for People Pleasers” and “Get Out of My Way, I Got My MOJO Back, Baby! Become a MOJO Magnet.” I also offer workshops and one-to-one coaching sessions for those committed to their journey of transformation.

The Enlightenment Counseling Center LLC

Mischa Hadaway, LCSW, CD (DONA) Gentle Mama Counseling

Thereare a few moments in your life that take your breath away. Moments that live in your memory, your heart, and your soul forever. Think back to your first kiss, senior prom, or graduation day. Purchasing your first home or your wedding day. Your child’s first steps, their first birthday, or the day of their birth.

Of these moments, how many of them did you have control over? How many of them were you ready for? How many are you still thinking about? How many of them would you do again if you could?

The experience of childbirth, we’re told, is supposed to be positive and full of joy, but for some, it’s the opposite. You prepared for the baby, read all the books, and bought the gear Now, baby is here… and you realize nothing is as you expected. You’re so tired, feeling isolated, lonely, scared, and worried. For many, there is no pregnancy “glow,” no “I love being pregnant,” no “I got pregnant on the very first try.” The unknown is anxiety-provoking.

You worry you’ll never feel like yourself again, and you don’t know what to do to feel better. Nothing you’ve tried is helping. Taking time for yourself wthout feeling guilt or shame seems impossible. You want to feel supported and confident that you’re a good mom and partner, even on what feels like your worst day. However, the weight of the never-ending to-do list and “mom brain” take hold, and self-care seems like a luxury you can’t afford.

That first step toward getting help may feel overwhelming. To get here, you need a safe and secure place to talk about how you’re feeling. That’s where I come in. I am a perinatal therapist, meaning I’m an expert in all things pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, working with clients who are planning a someday family, currently expecting, recently postpartum, or grieving a loss. This includes families who are managing their journey through fertility, birth trauma, and parenting with or without a partner.

I provide virtual, one-hour individual sessions. We will work together to normalize your situation, process the trauma, and devise a plan to address what feels unbearable. Consultations are free. I have a flexible schedule with evening and weekend appointments, and I accept most insurances.

Jenny Alzate, LPC, LLC, Integrative Psychotherapist

Jenny Alzate is a Hispanic

Integrative Psychotherapist, LPC, Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, and Reiki practitioner. She’s been working in the mental health field for 25 years, with a clinical focus is on women’s issues, mood and stress disorders, family therapy, and childhood trauma. Jenny uses an eclectic clinical approach to help heal and restore the mind, body, and spirit.

Jenny is trained in mindfulness-based stress reduction, mind–body medicine, Eden energy medicine, aromatherapy, emotional freedom technique, and trauma-focused yoga.

Jenny teaches her clients how to deactivate the physiological stress response and activate the relaxation response found within the body by using natural holistic medicine modalities. Jenny has been in private practice for 14 years and, in 2017, co-founded The Enlightenment Counseling Center. An integrative group practice and wellness center. She manages the ECC and her private practice, Jenny Alzate, LPC, LLC—Integrative Psychotherapist.

Jenny brings respect and admiration for her clients. She understands that facing ourselves and doing the work is both challenging and beautiful and believes everyone has a birthright to be well in this lifetime.

Jenny promotes well-being by helping clients transmute painful experiences into conscious life lessons and opportunities to find their true selves behind the stories. Jenny is a very intuitive healer and is not only the therapist but also a lifelong client, always learning and expanding herself.

She continues her personal healing and empowerment journey while helping many others on theirs.

Jenny Alzate, LPC, LLC Integrative Psychotherapist JennyAlzateLPC.com

Mischa Hadaway, LCSW, CD(DONA) • Gentle Mama Counseling West Hartford, CT • 860.215.4710 • gentlemamacounseling.com

Susana Padilla, Certified Hypnotherapist, Hypnosis Haven

Whenit comes to managing anxiety and stress, many people don’t think about Hypnotherapy as an option for a natural treatment to calm their ails. More often than not, it is only dismissed as a form of entertaining a crowd; but the clients of Hypnosis Haven can tell you that Susana Padilla, Certified Hypnotherapist, will tell you they have seen amazing results after just a few sessions.

Clients have come to see her for cases of extreme anxiety, varied addictions, sugar cravings, smoking cessation, weight management, recovering from the loss of a loved one, erectile dysfunction, IBS, stroke recovery, bladder control, unresolved emotions, grudges, nighttime eating, obsessive thoughts, fears, childhood trauma and so much more.

Life is complex, and many times the challenges are wrapped up in other emotions and ideas from imprints of the past. The subconscious mind is holding on to those ideas and with Hypnotherapy, we can clear those “stuck” feelings and move on into a better mental frame of life.

No matter what challenge the clients have, they are all given a personal treatment in the session and Susana works to resolve the matters at hand while making sure no “substitute symptoms” appear. Treatment is adapted to each individual and they all receive additional recordings to help reinforce the work done in session.

As one client who came in for bladder control and gaming addiction said, “She wants to help you solve your issues and does not want you to keep coming back”.

Visit Hypnosis-Haven.com

Susana Padilla, Certified Hypnotherapist, Hypnosis Haven • New Milford, CT Hypnosis-Haven.com

949.53.HAVEN (949.534.2836)

660ProspectAvenue

Hartford,CT06105

998FarmingtonAvenue,Suite207 WestHartford,CT06107

Treating your mental health needs with a holistic approach. Focusing on mind, body, & spirit.

Tomakeareferral:

ECCASSISTANCE2021@gmail.com

(860)729-3284

Bonnie L. Musumeci LPC

Nicole Archer LPC

Jenny Alzate LPC Omally Martinez LCSW

JaNae Schneider LPC Amy Romano LCSW

Leanne Des Rosiers LPC Elena Bourgoing LCSW

Amanda Shifreen LPL

Paula Coppola LMFT

Paulette Studley LMFT

Laura Bertrand LPC

Enitzaida Rodriguez LCSW Caytlin Cobb LCSW

< PAGE 9 “Spotlight: The Enlightenment Counseling Center”

5 Unexpected Ways to Boost Your Immune System

By Kristina Mozzicato, CH, LMT, BCTMB

“Many studies show that berberine can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It decreases sugar production in the liver, slows the breakdown of carbohydrates, and increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Our gut plays an important role in regulating our immune system.”

Most of us know what to do to keep our immune system strong. Get at least eight hours of quality sleep every night. Exercise regularly. Eat a healthy diet. Stay hydrated. Take vitamin C and vitamin D supplements. But there are also some surprising things we can do to boost our immune system.

1. Electrolytes

Everyone knows it’s important to drink enough water on a regular basis, but it’s also important to consume electrolytes. When we sweat, our bodies excrete electrolytes, which need to be replenished on a regular basis. Simply drinking large quantities of water is not sufficient.

Electrolytes help our bodies regulate nerve and muscle function, balance blood acidity and blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm, help rebuild damaged tissue, and maintain the balance between fluids inside and outside our cells. The key electrolytes are sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and chloride. Contrary to popular belief, most of us are actually deficient in sodium. A sodium deficiency can result in confusion, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and even coma. Studies have found that in a low-salt diet, your body will break down bone to maintain sodium levels in the blood.

So, how can we replace our electrolytes? Eating fruits and vegetables, drinking coconut water, and consuming salt (such as Pink Himalayan Salt or Redmond RealSalt). If you’re eating a low-carb diet, a great way is to add electrolyte powder to your water. Many electrolyte powders contain some carbohydrates and sugar, so if you are counting carbs, looking for a healthier, sugar-free alternative, such as LMNT or Redmond Relyte is best.

2. Glycine

Glycine is an essential amino acid that regulates immune function by building proteins for tissue and hormone maintenance. Research suggests that optimal glycine levels may help support heart and liver health, improve sleep, reduce diabetes risk, and reduce muscle loss. Glycine is considered to be an anti-inflammatory micronutrient whose effects

include its ability to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines. Glycine is one of the amino acids your body uses to make glutathione, which is considered the master antioxidant. Glutathione helps protect your cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which can cause many diseases. Because glutathione levels naturally decline with age, it’s important that we get enough glycine. Glycine has also been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce the harmful effects of alcohol on your liver by preventing inflammation.

3. Berberine

Berberine is a natural compound found in plants and has been used for years in traditional Chinese medicine. Many studies show that berberine can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It decreases sugar production in the liver, slows the breakdown of carbohydrates, and increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Our gut plays an important role in regulating our immune system.

Test tube and animal studies suggest that berberine can reduce the growth and spread of various types of cancer. Berberine can reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms, including certain types of bacteria and viruses. It can also reduce fat buildup in the liver, which can help protect against (and potentially reverse) NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). NAFLD is usually a result of a high-carbohydrate/high-sugar diet and can progress to cirrhosis if not detected early. High liver enzymes and an abdominal ultrasound can help diagnose NAFLD. An added bonus is that berberine has been shown to help weight loss.

4. NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

NAC can be produced from other amino acids by your body. It’s important in many functions, including replenishing glutathione. This benefits chronic respiratory conditions, fertility, and brain health. NAC helps with detoxification due to its anti-inflammatory nature. Doctors regularly give NAC to patients with an acetaminophen overdose to prevent or reduce kidney and liver damage.

—Kristina Mozzicato, CH, LMT, BCTMB

NAC can also relieve respiratory conditions. By thinning mucus in the bronchial tubes and boosting glutathione levels, NAC may help decrease the severity and frequency of coughing and respiratory attacks. Other benefits include stabilizing blood sugar (by decreasing inflammation in fat cells) and reducing heart disease risk.

5. Coffee

Coffee is considered to be abundant in antioxidants. Several studies suggest that coffee drinkers live longer and have a lower risk of premature death. The liver carries out hundreds of important bodily functions and is integral to the immune system. Fatty liver disease and hepatitis can result in cirrhosis (scar tissue in the liver). People who drink four or more cups of coffee daily have an 80% lower risk of cirrhosis. Coffee appears to protect against liver and colorectal cancer and contains several important nutrients, including riboflavin (Vitamin B2), pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), manganese, potassium, and niacin.

Besides caffeine, coffee contains ferulic acid, nicotinic acid, and cafestol. Ferulic acid is a type of polyphenol that protects the digestive system against toxins and pathogens from contaminated food or water. Nicotinic acid (vitamin B3/niacin) can suppress inflammation that causes several diseases, including lowering fat and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Cafestol has anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammation effects and agents that protect your liver. These antioxidants help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels and protect your liver and heart. Most coffee beans worldwide are heavily sprayed with pesticides, so it’s important to drink certified organic coffee or beans grown using organic practices.

Taking electrolytes, glycine, berberine, NAC, and drinking organic coffee are all beneficial in supporting your immune system. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before taking these, especially if you have a health condition or are taking medication.

Kristina Mozzicato is a Licensed Massage Therapist board-certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork by the NCBTMB. A 2009 graduate of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy, she is also certified in Cupping and ACE MediCupping™. The owner of Abundant Health Massage Therapy & Wellness in Farmington, CT, Kristina is also a Certified Consulting Hypnotist by the National Guild of Hypnotists. She has been named a Natural Nutmeg Magazine 10Best Massage Therapy Practitioner for 2020, 2021, and 2022. For more information and convenient online booking, please visit www.abundanthealthct.com.

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Blanketing the World in Prayer

by Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a sobering time for so many people who have been affected by this scary and deadly disease. I am one of those people. I will be seventeen years cancer-free this January.

Cancer changed my life and my outlook and absolutely rocked my world. And I lived to talk about it. I thrive in my world after much healing, reflection, and action. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes in true Scorpio style, I am grateful, honored, and humbled by my experience.

The Diagnosis

I will never forget hearing those words just days before New Year’s Eve in 2006 on a late Friday afternoon. I had indeed tested positive for cancer. My life at the time was in a very low place. My lover of four years had moved out just two months ago. He needed to find himself and had his own journey ahead of him. Our split devastated me; I felt as though half of me was missing. Then, I received the diagnosis that would further change my life and the world as I knew it.

My head was spinning. Thoughts came flooding in, but nothing went out. I was full of self-doubt, scared to death, and lower than low. Would I survive this? How could I tell my mom? Would I be able to work in my beloved Rolfing practice? Would I lose my home? Would insurance cover the treatments? If I survived, would I ever be the same? Would I be maimed and disfigured?

After the initial shock, I looked to different people for advice and support. My cousin in Florida gave me some direction from her husband, who was a semi-religious man. I’m not sure of the name of the process, but it involved asking my ancestors

for their help. Why not? I had nothing else planned and a long solo journey ahead of me.

Making Offerings

The next day, I drove to the cemetery in Hartford’s North End, where my dad and several of his siblings are buried. I got out of my car with my dog beside me and began to pray out loud to my family. I asked them to speak to God on my behalf because they were closer to God than I was. I told them I was not ready to leave this earth, that I still had work to do and a life ahead of me. Could they ask God to spare me? I would be so grateful. My dog, who never barked, started to howl at the top of his lungs. I was sobbing, he was howling— we were a strange and powerful sight. I thanked my ancestors and drove home with a tear-stained face and an exhausted pooch.

I had plans for the upcoming New Year’s Eve with two friends. One told me about Yemaya, the Goddess of the Oceans. Her origins were from Africa, but somehow, the Caribbean became the seat of Yemaya’s soul. My friend had studied about her, and we decided to have a ritual at the shore since it was a full moon on New Year’s Eve and that was the ideal time to make an offering.

We shopped for seven of everything as there are seven oceans on Earth. It was said that Yemaya had a special love for shiny things, such as money and jewelry. We went to the local dollar store, and each bought baskets that we later filled with countless trinkets, seven beaded necklaces, seven dimes and seven nickels, sweets, bubble bath, and seven tea candles. We set our baskets afloat at the high tide on that bright full moon evening and said our individual prayers. We asked Yemaya to accept our

“Could they ask God to spare me? I would be so grateful. My dog, who never barked, started to howl at the top of his lungs. I was sobbing, he was howling—we were a strange and powerful sight.”

—Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR

offerings and grant us our wishes. My basket went out the furthest before it sank into the water, and the candles sputtered out.

The proof of the acceptance of our offerings would be to visit the same beach the next day and see if any debris was washed up on the beach. No sign of baskets or their contents were found the next morning. Success!

The Power of Prayer

I had people praying for me in several prayer circles. I wore a pink shawl that had been made by women at a local church. They prayed as they knitted, I prayed as I wore it. I took prayers from everyone who wanted to give them. I had my Jewish ancestors, a Caribbean Goddess, some Buddhist friends, and Christian groups holding my health and well-being in their stead. I don’t know specifically who to thank, but all that prayer worked! I had over a year and a half of treatments, including an initial surgery, chemotherapy, radiation combined with a bunch of supplements, a couple more surgeries, and tons of prayers from countless people. I received a clean bill of health the following year and every year since.

As a result of surviving my cancer saga, I have a greater sense of who I am, how strong I am, and when to take it easy, and now I know that I need to ask for help. All those prayers from all of those people helped me. I could not have done this journey by myself.

I see life differently now. I enjoy simpler things—a great meal with friends, work I love, daily calls with my mom. Every morning while walking my dogs, I say my prayers, asking God for continued good health and safety and for the health and safety of my beautiful pet family, my mom, my extended family, my friends, my Rolfing® clients, my neighbors—everyone! I blanket the earth with goodwill and ask for blessings for all.

Try blessing your day and all those you love with a ritual prayer that feels comfortable to you. You may like it. Mother Earth, society as a whole, and our troubled times really need all the help we can give.

Sharon Sklar is in her 42nd year of private practice as a Certified Advanced Rolfer. She has been voted one of Natural Nutmeg’s 10BEST Bodyworkers for the last four years. 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 info or to schedule a consultation. www.SharonSklarRolfing.com

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< PAGE 6 “Down to Earth: Reconnecting to Our Sacred Rhythms” BY ELIZABETH EGAN

What “It Works” Really Means in Chiropractic Care

By Dr. Phillip Ruggiero, DC, LMT

“I know these patients aren’t lying about their post-adjustment benefits. If they’re telling their friends that “it really works,” I must accept that “works” is multifaceted and unique to the recipient of an adjustment. If they’re happy with their care and getting results that improve their quality of life, I’m doing my job at the highest level.”

—Dr. Phillip Ruggiero, DC, LMT

Ireceived my first chiropractic adjustment when I was 15 years old. It happened on a metal bleacher after a high school track meet. I had spoken with a teammate’s father and mentioned a tight feeling in my middle back after running the 110-meter hurdles. He said he was a chiropractor and had a potential way of providing relief, so I laid on my back on a bleacher bench and waited curiously for him to adjust me. With his open palm resting underneath my back, he assisted me in lying back over his hand and then applied a quick drop of his upper body over my arms crossed over my chest. I heard and felt a bunch of cracks inside of me and immediately felt relief.

I didn’t know at the time what a chiropractor was, but I did know he “cracked” my back, and I felt great. “Wow, that really worked,” I exclaimed with surprise. He told me I would benefit from seeing him again, so we scheduled a follow-up appointment. A week later, I rode my bike to his office, a detailed exam was performed, and he adjusted my neck, mid-back, and lower back. I remember feeling loose, void of muscle tension, and simply operating on a higher level. I had a greater range of motion in the gym, felt lighter while running track, and was less uncomfortable sitting in those rock-hard chairs at school. Throughout four years of high school sports, I would ride my bike to his office with various complaints of lower back pain, neck pain, or “pinched nerves” in my back. All these complaints decreased in severity after I saw my chiropractor.

Defining What “Works”

Now, two decades later, I’m fortunate enough to help others with similar complaints as that 15-year-old boy had after a track meet. Firsttime patients and returning patients often tell me my adjustments were effective and “worked.” Reports of improved sleep quality, heightened mood and mental focus, improved bowel activity, resolution of pain and TMJ dysfunction, improved distances in golf strokes, faster 5k times, and increased output in the gym were all credited to the “magic” I’ve been casting on my patients.

As a graduate of an evidence-based chiropractic school, I know what is factually accurate in what an adjustment can provide and have been skeptical about educating outside of those bounds. Backed by many studies, an adjustment has been proven to increase the range of motion segmentally and decrease overall pain. No mentions of golf, running, weightlifting, sleep quality, or bowel activity have been taught in school, so when I hear feedback such as this, I’m reminded that “it works” means different things to different people.

This has instigated an internal debate in which I ask myself what I do to my patients to achieve these outcomes. Am I too narrow-minded in my expected outcomes? I know these patients aren’t lying about their post-adjustment benefits. If they’re telling their friends that “it really works,” I must accept that “works” is multifaceted and unique to the recipient of an adjustment. If they’re happy with their care and getting results that improve their quality of life, I’m doing my job at the highest level and am happy to help.

Rehab Chiropractic Care

As a “rehab chiro,” a chiropractor specializing in rehabilitation, joint restriction, and pain are my arch nemeses. Joint restriction is a condition that limits the full range of motion and can cause pain and discomfort. This can ultimately be frustrating in sports performance and interfere with activities of daily living.

Applying a chiropractic adjustment is almost a surefire way to alleviate joint restriction. Depending on the severity and chronicity, multiple adjustments might be necessary to allow the joint to re-educate itself to its new increased range of motion. Another important part of chiropractic rehab care is assessing the soft tissues that connect to or cross that joint. With an improper functioning joint, you might find soft tissue shares the abuse of the restriction. It is important to address all outliers that could cause this decrease in joint function.

The goal during care is to slow down the chaos that is being caused by a troubled joint and help bring a patient into a state of parasympathetic drive, which is the “rest and digest” part of our nervous system. Being in a parasympathetic state allows the body to decrease cortisol levels, slow the heart rate, decrease the respiratory rate, and promote a more relaxing state of being.

Helping someone become free from pain and restriction could be what they need to be in a parasympathetic state longer, which is ideal. Allowing the body to carry on due diligence without sounding those cortisol alarms can help bring the “it works” perspective into your post-adjustment effects. Joint restrictions aren’t limited to the spine but include any joint within the body, such ribs, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles.

If you’re looking for freedom in your movements, a life with decreased pain, and many other positives an adjustment can bring you, you deserve to be adjusted and find out your definition of “it works.”

Centers

We

Why Dr StevenHinchey?

Both he and his staff Listen to YOU

• Non judgmental assessments

• Respect for you and your time

Are concerned about YOU

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• Minimally invasive procedures

• Implant tooth replacement

• Same day non-metal crowns

Inner

Holy Cow!

Constant low back means your sacral chakra is not in balance.

An imbalanced sacral chakra is the result of suppressed emotions, feelings and desires. It can also mean you may have had sexual trauma and resist intimacy.

Phil Ruggiero, owner of PR Chiropractic, focuses on the whole body in addition to the specific needs of the patient. Having over a decade of experience in massage therapy and strength and conditioning, he will use soft tissue techniques as well as exercise prescription to help you achieve your goals. He believes in assessing muscle tissue as well as joint function to optimize each visit leaving you feeling and performing your best! Visit prchiroct.com to learn more.

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- Lisa Roche

My 4 Weeks to A Happy Low Back program will get to the root cause of your pain.

Pain

Fire Cider: Unraveling the Ancient Elixir’s Healing Secrets in the Modern Age

By Brenda Sullivan, Herbalist

Rosemary Gladstar revamped the ancient Four Thieves recipe into a more palatable and modern version. She named it Fire Cider, with ingredients easily sourced. The tonic boosts the immune system during cold and flu seasons and is often used as the first defense in

Vinegar, a liquid utilized for the fermentation of various raw materials, carries a captivating history. It all began in ancient Babylon, where wine’s inadvertent discovery from forgotten grape juice led to vinegar, a potent food preservative. By 420 BC, Greek physician Hippocrates identified its medicinal applications, particularly for wound treatment.

In the 21st century, vinegar remains popular, particularly apple cider vinegar (ACV) for its healing properties. Personal anecdotal accounts abound. I’m sure you’ve heard the buzz about the healing benefits of the most popular vinegar—apple cider.

I first learned about apple cider vinegar 45 years ago when I found my grandmother in her kitchen swigging a tablespoon of vinegar for whatever health benefits she thought it offered. After downing her spoonful and recovering from the awful taste, she admitted she didn’t know the health benefits, but several of her church friends were doing it, and she didn’t want to be left out! I honestly thought she lost her mind.

Unfortunately, she was drinking distilled vinegar rather than organic, which is the kind she should have been drinking. Her results were nothing more than a bad taste in her mouth and a few side effects.

• Acid reflux

• A slight upset stomach

• Dental damage from the loss of enamel

But were the Church Ladies wrong to believe there were health benefits? As it turns out, they weren’t too far off if they had been drinking the right kind of vinegar…

Today, health claims around ACV range from weight loss to cancer treatment, heart health improvement, dandruff control, and boosting the immune system. However, these claims are not universally supported. Some research, including a small Japanese study, has suggested that vinegar could help with weight loss and improve insulin levels in type 2 diabetics. But a comprehensive scientific consensus is yet to be reached, with sources like Harvard Edu Health Blog and WebMD calling for more research. The consumption of vinegar-based beverages thus remains a personal choice, with users urged to exercise caution due to its potential adverse effects.

Taking a historical detour, vinegar-based recipes have been around for centuries, known by different names such as Four Thieves, Cyclone Cider, Oxymels, and Fire Cider. Of these, the Four Thieves recipe stands out, with roots in the 1740s during the Black Plague in France. The name originated from four grave robbers who avoided getting sick, reportedly due to an herb-infused vinegar concoction. They discovered this formula was a natural flea repellent, an important property given the plague was spread by infected fleas.

Fast forward to the late 1970s and ‘80s, herbalist Rosemary Gladstar revamped the ancient Four Thieves recipe into a more palatable and modern version. She named it Fire Cider, with ingredients easily sourced. The tonic boosts the immune system during cold and flu seasons and is often used as the first defense in reducing cold and flu symptoms.

“…[H]erbalist

reducing cold and flu symptoms.”

—Brenda J. Sullivan, Herbalist

Herbal Ingredient Actions

Rosemary has freely shared her base recipe. However, herbalists have adapted it over the years to suit their needs. Since I grow so many immune-boosting herbs in the garden, I’ve added to the base recipe to create my own version.

Rosemary’s Base Ingredients

•Ginger root

•Horseradish root

•Onions

•Garlic

•Jalapeno peppers

•Lemons and or oranges

•Several sprigs of fresh organic rosemary or 2 tbsp of dried rosemary leaves

•Turmeric roots

•Cayenne powder

•Apple cider vinegar

•Local raw honey

Additional Ingredients

•Rose hips (can use contents from tea bags or dried berries)

•Burdock root (fresh)

•Echinacea root and dried flowers

•Ghost pepper powder blend

•Cinnamon sticks

•Dried turkey tail or reishi mushrooms

•Thyme

Herbal Ingredient Actions

•Finely chop ingredients into a clean glass jar and fill to top with organic ACV.

•Cover and let sit for six weeks.

•Strain herbs, save liquid, and re-jar in clean mason jars.

•Directions: One shot glass of fire cider sweetened with honey to taste.

Brenda Sullivan is the proprietor of Thompson Street Farm and Farm to Bath and is an avid herbalist. Her garden, where she grows medicinal flowers and herbs for her bath and body products, is a source of endless joy and knowledge. Using herbs has given Brenda and her family an improved quality of life. Brenda loves sharing her herbal insights on her podcast and YouTube channel, Living and Lovin Herbs. Websites: https://www.farmtobath.com/ www.livingandlovinherbs.com.

Ingredient Herbal Action Systems Affected

GINGER AROMATIC • DIAPHORETIC STIMULANT CARMINATIVE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ANALGESIC DIGESTIVE CIRCULATORY STRUCTURAL HORSERADISHBITTER • EXPECTORANT COUNTERIRRITANT RESPIRATORY DIGESTIVE

ONION

GARLIC

JALAPENO PEPPERS

MINOR HERB CLASS FROM ALLIUM FAMILY NUTRITIVE ANTISEPTIC HYPOTENSIVE

AROMATIC ALTERATIVE STIMULANT DIAPHORETIC EXPECTORANT ANTISPASMODIC NERVINE CARMINATIVE VULNERARY

AROMATIC STIMULANT • ASTRINGENT DIAPHORETIC ANTISPASMODIC CIRCULATORY TONIC CARMINATIVE RUBEFACIENT HIGH IN VITAMIN C HIGH IN POTASSIUM*

CIRCULATORY • IMMUNE RESPIRATORY

CIRCULATORY IMMUNE RESPIRATORY DIGESTIVE

CIRCULATORY DIGESTIVE (*REMEMBER VINEGAR CAN DROP YOUR POTASSIUM LEVEL, SO THIS IS A GOOD WAY TO REPLACE IT)

LEMONS

MINOR HERB: RUTACEAE FAMILY NUTRITIVE HIGH IN VITAMIN C HIGH IN POTASSIUM*

ORANGES MINOR HERB: RUTACEAE FAMILY NUTRITIVE HIGH IN VITAMIN C HIGH IN POTASSIUM*

ROSEMARY CARMINATIVE ANTISPASMODIC ANTIDEPRESSANT RUBEFACIENT ANTIMICROBIAL EMMENAGOGUE

TURMERIC AROMATIC • ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ANTI-ARTHRITIC • ANTISEPTIC

CAYENNE POWDER AROMATIC STIMULANT • ASTRINGENT DIAPHORETIC ANTISPASMODIC CIRCULATORY TONIC CARMINATIVE • RUBEFACIENT

HONEY (RAW LOCAL) ANTIMICROBIAL ANTISEPTIC

CIRCULATORY • GENERAL TONIC FLAVOR IMMUNE

CIRCULATORY • GENERAL TONIC FLAVOR IMMUNE

CIRCULATORY DIGESTIVE IMMUNE

DIGESTIVE IMMUNE

CIRCULATORY DIGESTIVE

DIGESTIVE COATS A SCRATCHY THROAT NATURAL SWEETENER (MAKES HERBS MORE PALATABLE)

ROSE-HIPS ASTRINGENT ANTISEPTIC ANTISPASMODIC HIGH IN VITAMIN C IMMUNE STRUCTURAL

BURDOCK ROOT

ECHINACEA ROOT AND FLOWER

GHOST PEPPERS

CINNAMON STICKS

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THYME

MUCILAGINOUS ALTERNATIVE DIURETIC DIAPHORETIC (FRESH ONLY) URINARY TONIC DEMULCENT

CIRCULATORY • URINARY DIGESTIVE

BITTER IMMUNE STIMULANT ALTERNATIVE ANTIMICROBIAL VASODILATOR RESPIRATORY DIGESTIVE

AROMATIC STIMULANT • ASTRINGENT DIAPHORETIC ANTISPASMODIC CIRCULATORY TONIC CARMINATIVE • RUBEFACIENT

ANTIMICROBIAL ANTIOXIDANT ANTISEPTIC ANTISPASMODIC ANTIVIRAL ASTRINGENT CARMINATIVE DEMULCENT MILD EMMENAGOGUE

AROMATIC ANTIMICROBIAL CARMINATIVE STIMULATING RELAXING DIAPHORETIC ANTISPASMODIC EXPECTORANT EMMENAGOGUE VERMIFUGE

CIRCULATORY DIGESTIVE

STIMULANT RELIEVES COLD AND OTHER VIRUS CONDITIONS IMMUNE

DIGESTIVE STRUCTURAL CIRCULATORY

ANTIVIRAL IMMUNE

Manifesting Your Pain-Free Future

By Jacqueline M. Kane, RT, LMT, EFT

Ashumans, we are manifesting all the time. It’s true!

Our thoughts create our beliefs, and our beliefs create our reality. The physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual parts of you are always manifesting more. “If you live in pain, it’s time to look at your thoughts and beliefs.”

Everything you have in your life today is because you have manifested it into being. Your thoughts create your beliefs, and your beliefs create your reality. Your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual elements are always manifesting.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

When working with clients, they often tell me they are worried about how bad the pain will get. They are frustrated that nothing has worked. They’re angry at the doctor for not helping them.

When we are consumed with these emotions, we are actually manifesting more of that emotion. What we focus on grows. The mind is always looking to find ways to prove that your beliefs and thoughts are true. If you are worried all day about how bad your pain will get, your mind will create more things to worry and be frustated and angry about.

When caught up in these thought processes, no matter how much clients try to heal their pain and their bodies, they find they’re locked in the cycle of pain and frustration. Their mind begins to believe that these thoughts are true, and often, their life begins a downward spiral because that is the energy of their thoughts, which also affects their health.

Are We the Source of Our Pain?

Have you ever noticed when you wake up tired and in pain, your day continues into the abyss of pain and negativity, and nothing seems to go right? It’s like there is this dark cloud above you.

We can shift that downward spiral by acknowledging it’s happening. Self-awareness is the first step— we cannot change a pattern we’re not aware of.

Then, we can begin to ask questions. How long have I been worried? When did that pain first start? What was happening at the time it first started? Maybe it was a car accident you’ve had difficulty putting behind you. Or perhaps you’re still holding on to the resentment and anger of a breakup. What about that accident or breakup was hard for you to let go of?

I recommend to my clients that they have a journal where they can write out these answers, as journaling helps to get these emotions and thoughts out so the body can heal. When you release the emotions of that event, you will then start the healing process and begin to heal your physical pain.

That is when true healing begins.

With the new mindset, we can start to think other thoughts like:

• I trust that I can heal my body.

• I am opening myself up to listening to my body.

• I am ready to heal.

• I love my body.

For some, this can be a quick transition, while for others, it can take longer to shift into being pain-free. Whenever this shift happens, though, people notice everything in their life gets better. They are happier and have more energy. More opportunities show up for them. They’re in the right place to meet their soulmate. They get along better with their spouse and their children. They take more vacations. Money shows up in all kinds of places. Life becomes simpler and flows more easily.

Are you looking for a life filled with energy, excitement, connection, and abundance? If you’re ready to dive deeper, schedule your complimentary Real Pain Relief Strategy. Call today.

As a Master Energy Healer and Coach, Jacqueline uncovers and transforms the blocks causing your physical, emotional, and financial pain so you can live the life you were born to live. Jacqueline facilitates deep healing of trauma, low back pain, and chronic conditions tied to limiting mindsets impacting health and wealth. If you’re ready to reach your health and wealth goals today, visit www.jacquelinemkane.com.

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“The way to shift that downward spiral is to acknowledge that it is happening. Self-awareness is the first step because we cannot change a pattern that we are not aware of.”

—Jacqueline M. Kane, RT, LMT, EFT

Gum Disease and Cavity Disease: Medical Conditions Masquerading as Dental Conditions?

By Dr. Kevin Norige, DMD

Asan experienced dentist, I have yet to see a mouth come into my office all by itself. All the mouths I see and treat are intimately attached to and highly coordinated with a body that has blood vessels, nerves, bones, muscles, an immune system, and other connective tissues.

So, it is no surprise that research over the past 20 years or so in the field of dentistry and oral health has confirmed the causative relationship between bacterial-induced chronic inflammatory diseases of the mouth with chronic inflammatory diseases of the cardiovascular system and other whole-body systems. And that diseases of the rest of the body exacerbate oral cavity diseases.

So why is it that in the 21st century, diseases of the mouth are treated as secondary compared to diseases of the rest of the body, both from an economic and a clinical standpoint? The teeth are treated as expendable (“just yank the sucker”), like pieces of jewelry (“I want shiny white teeth”), or like pieces of wood (“drill and fill ‘em”). And about the gums, it is common to hear: “Gum bleeding is normal, isn’t it?” or “I forgot to brush my gums today,” or “Using this special toothpaste or mouthwash (you name the product) will prevent gum disease.”

We have handheld computers that can solve complex math problems in fractions of seconds and have access to research conclusions worldwide on a myriad of health-related problems, but we still get cavities and gum disease—the two most prevalent diseases affecting humankind. Why? Because we have disassociated the health and care of the mouth from the health and care of the rest of the body.

It’s about time we treat the mouth and its contents with the respect and care that the gateway to the rest of the body deserves. Take the time and make the effort to help your mouth deliver on its promise of health for a lifetime. Both you and your respected, trained professional dental care provider are responsible for ensuring years of worry-free, comfortable, and health-promoting function by your teeth and gums. Keep your smile healthy for a lifetime. Your body will be glad you did.

Kevin 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 over 35 years he has worked with patients to achieve a healthy mouth and live a healthier life. Call 860.288.2111 or www.SouthWindsorSmiles.com. See ad on page 31 >

“We have handheld computers that can solve complex math problems in fractions of seconds and have access to research conclusions worldwide on a myriad of healthrelated problems, but we still get cavities and gum disease—the two most prevalent diseases affecting humankind. Why? Because we have disassociated the health and care of the mouth from the health and care of the rest of the body.”

—Dr. Kevin Norige, DMD

Can Loneliness Impact Our Longevity?

By Charleen K. Miele, LPC

Iam an avid reader. I read everything about wellness: taking care of ourselves, doing all we can to improve our lives, and learning what things are the biggest threat to our health and wellness. The topic that is coming up in just about everything I read these days is loneliness.

We may think that loneliness is only an issue for those who live alone, have no local families, and have only a few or no friends; however, that is not the case. Loneliness is everywhere, and several specific factors have significantly contributed to this issue over the past several years. It’s an important issue and has even been called the “silent killer” in society. Some of the statistics Jeff Krasno mentions in Commune Podcast, episode 461, are as follows: 52% of adults surveyed reported feeling lonely much of the time; 47% reported feeling their relationships are not meaningful; 58% reported that “no one really knows them”; 57% (single or not) reported they eat all their meals alone.

The Effect of Loneliness on Our Health

We seem to understand that poor diet, lack of exercise, and bad habits such as smoking negatively affect our health. What we don’t seem to recognize is that loneliness is as significant a danger as the other things on that list. Research by the Roots of Loneliness Project shows that loneliness increases our risk of death at the same rate as smoking 15 cigarettes a day! Social isolation is a serious problem in our society; these past few years made that even worse.

Over the last several decades, things like gated communities, social media, email, and texting have decreased our actual connection with others. We

have also seen a huge decline in those belonging to any type of church community. Then, when the pandemic hit, decisions were made that caused more isolation, disconnection, and fear. Digital learning was ineffective in supporting child development and certainly didn’t help children learn social skills. Working from home seemed like a great idea initially, but soon, many realized they missed the connection with co-workers and often felt lonelier than they had previously. I recognize that many still enjoy the option to work from home, but it’s important to note the negative effects it has created for many workers.

In my work as a therapist, I hear from many clients how much they missed gathering with family, friends, church members, book clubs, and so on. They reported eating more (often unhealthy comfort food), drinking alcohol more frequently, moving less, and dreading interactions with others out of fear that others were “contagious” and, therefore, dangerous. Our medical societies and our government, including the FDA and CDC, used fear as a motivator, and it backfired quickly. Suicide rates were (and continue to be) on the rise, depression and anxiety are rampant, and the common denominator is often loneliness…typically in reaction to fear.

Connection Is Key

In her book Growing Young, Marta Zaraska notes the research that shows that connection with others is key to our longevity. There are too many examples to mention here, but one thing we know (and have known) for certain is that lonely people are much more susceptible to illness and even

“Loneliness appears to push up the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even urinary incontinence. And, of course, it can also shorten life rather dramatically by suicide.”

—Marta Zaraska

death, as loneliness weakens our immune system. Zaraska notes, “Loneliness appears to push up the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even urinary incontinence. And, of course, it can also shorten life rather dramatically by suicide.”

We are created with a need for connection with others. Evolutionarily, we are tribal people. Being separated from the tribe meant death. Working together was essential for survival; alone, we would die. We may now be able to supply ourselves with food and shelter, but even the best food and shelter can’t counter the effects of loneliness.

So, what’s the answer? Connection! Start small if you need to. If going into the office is an option, do it every once in a while. If you’re going for a walk, invite a neighbor or friend. Host or attend a game night, a book club, or a movie night. Volunteer—a double benefit, as we also know that helping others improves our health. Exercise with others (another activity with double benefits).

I will be offering a Women’s Wellness Group in the fall through The Sacred Self, LLC. Check my website for more details. Consider seeing a therapist if you are suffering from loneliness. The therapeutic relationship itself is the most significant aspect of successful therapy! Most importantly, please remember that you are not alone. There are always people who will listen, walk, laugh, and just be with you. Don’t stop trying to find them. If you need more ideas and help, reach out! I will do my best to assist you in the process.

Charleen K. Miele, LPC , is a Licensed Professional Counselor who started her journey as a teacher, church music director, and fitness instructor.

Charleen works with clients both in person and via telehealth and has recently added Trauma Informed Breathwork to her work. She offers her clients the opportunity to experience IFS and/or breathwork through in-person and online sessions and is currently offering group breathwork sessions online and will be hosting workshops and group sessions in person in the new year. Life coaching and spiritual life coaching, including breathwork and IFS work, are also available both as individual sessions and as packages of two, four, or six sessions. Charleen will soon be offering self-paced online courses as well as interactive groups that will meet for a series of weeks and will include lectures, discussions, journaling, and experiential somatic work through breathing and movement. Visit https://www.thesacredselfllc.com/.

Contact Charleen at thesacredselfllc@gmail.com or call 860.614.8382. Located at 171 Market Square #102, Newington, CT. See ad on page 37 >

Dr. Myriah Hinchey

Simple Lifestyle Changes You Can Make Today to Optimize Your Immune System

By Erika Dworkin, BCHN®

this group of special cells, tissues, and organs doesn’t act the way it should. If it kicks into action too often, you may get a condition like allergies, asthma, or eczema. Or if your immune system starts to attack your body instead of safeguarding it, you could have an autoimmune disorder.... At least 80 illnesses are caused by immune system problems. They can all cause inflammation.”

Do you suffer from ongoing or recurring health challenges? Do they include frequent bacterial or viral infections, chronic fatigue, food allergies/ sensitivities, severe digestive difficulties, chronic pain, or brain fog? These are some of the more common signs and symptoms of a compromised immune system. The good news is that multiple lifestyle changes can go a long way to addressing the symptoms and even curbing the progression of associated diseases.

Your Immune System

Your body’s immune system is a network that defends it against attacks from viruses (such as colds, flu, and COVID-19) and foreign invaders (pathogens like bacteria, parasites, and fungi). When functioning properly, your white blood cells, proteins, tissues, and organs (spleen, bone marrow, and thymus gland) guard against acute or chronic contagious infections and diseases resulting from those attacks. When your immune system is stimulated, it responds to antigens (the unique subparts of various pathogens) by producing either cells to attack them directly or special proteins (antibodies), which attach to the antigens to, in turn, attract cells that engulf and destroy them.

Your immune system can also malfunction by attacking healthy tissue by creating antibodies. An autoimmune disease (AID) can develop with attendant inflammation and cell destruction.

The broad autoimmune spectrum ranges from diseases with a clear autoimmune component to those suspected to be autoimmune. The more well-known diseases on this spectrum include type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis (MS), celiac disease, chronic Lyme disease, restless leg syndrome, Crohn’s disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and Parkinson’s disease (considered partly autoimmune). The incidence of these 140+ identified conditions appears to be increasing, yet their exact causes are largely unknown, and their diagnosis can take years. Researchers have determined that those with a single autoimmune condition are more likely to develop others than those without an AID.

Traditional Medicine: For Crisis, Not Long-Term Optimal Wellness

Has your doctor ever recommended multiple courses of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs that didn’t resolve your health problem? Traditional medicine certainly has a place in crisis management, but conventional physicians have limited drugs in their toolbox to address ailments. Those medications are primarily designed to address symptoms rather than optimize long-term wellness. Fortunately, a natural approach offers a broader selection of time-tested ways to prevent and support compromised immunity.

Some Lifestyle Factors That Can Protect You

All unhealthy lifestyle choices burden the immune system. If you suspect you have a weakened immune system, there some steps you can take today to help strengthen it. If you have been diagnosed with an AID or suspect you have a condition on the AID spectrum, it’s important to see a specialist for a diagnosis and avoid stimulating your immune system’s attack on your body.

Eat a Healthy Diet

While each person has different dietary needs, following certain basic nutritional guidelines can greatly increase the body’s ability to avoid and combat immune challenges. It is generally wise to avoid (or at least greatly minimize) inflammation-inducing saturated, hydrogenated, and trans fats (beef, pork, lamb, duck), gluten, dairy, GMOs, caffeine, alcohol, MSG, dyes, and chemical additives, and especially sugar/simple carbohydrates, all of which impair white blood cell function.

A healthy diet should generally include plenty of filtered water and primarily unprocessed, high-vibration, whole foods without labels and ingredients you can’t pronounce. Barring allergies/food sensitivities or a health condition that calls for a different approach, your diet should include high-omega3 wild fish, organic chicken/turkey/eggs, protein powder to supplement inadequate protein intake, limited amounts of whole organic grains, and as many colorful organic raw foods as possible.

“When your immune system is on point, it’s a lifesaver. But... sometimes,

—16 Symptoms of Immune System Problems

Manage Your Stress, Anxiety, and Depression

Chronic stress, which can cause and exacerbate anxiety and depression, is a leading cause of immune compromise. Researchers recognize two kinds of stress. It is well accepted that unmanageable physicochemical stress, from environmental factors like food/nutrition, toxins, metabolic disorders, infections, and inflammation, can cause disease states or even fatality.

It is also known that long-term chronic psychological stress leads to persistently high cortisol and corticosteroid levels, which in turn cause resistance to cortisol and impaired anti-inflammatory effects on the immune system. These effects can result in chronic infection, chronic inflammatory AIDs, and even cancers. According to Michael Murray, ND, the more significant the stressor, the greater the impact on immunity, and negative emotions suppress immune function while positive emotions enhance it.

Stress reduction techniques include belief and mindset management, raising your vibration (for example, through meditation and deep breathing, and focusing on gratitude, love, generosity, and positive thoughts), journaling, spending time in nature and with animals, yoga, and working with an energy healer or therapist.

Other Critical Lifestyle Steps

While much more can be said about the importance of healthy lifestyle choices to your immunity, limited space permits only a listing of some additional factors to address in your daily life:

1. Manage your weight, especially by staying active, to prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation.

2. Improve your sleep to enhance your white blood cells’ ability to destroy pathogen-infected cells.

3. Limit exposure to environmental toxins, including EMFs from electronic devices, radiation, and prescription drugs, to inhibit the production of cell-damaging free radicals.

4. Eliminate self-sabotaging habits

5. Consider taking some of the supplements mentioned below.

Take Immune-Enhancing Dietary Supplements

Food can do a lot, but for many, food alone can’t do enough. Space allows for a brief overview of just a few of the numerous natural remedies available to protect the immune system.

• Beta-Glucan: Beta-glucan is a carbohydrate that naturally occurs in the cell walls of yeast, medicinal mushrooms, and bacteria. Beta-glucan stimulates white blood cell and natural killer (NK) cell activity.

• Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): This herb, safe for children, is shown to have antiinflammatory, antiviral, antiflu, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

• Curcumin from Turmeric: Used for over 3000 years in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda), this spice extract combats inflammation and cellular oxidation, twin causes of most illnesses. Extensive trials have shown that it has therapeutic applications against inflammation, infection (including H. pylori bacteria), lifestyle-related diseases, and neurological disorders, with potential activity against diabetes, allergies, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.

• OPCs: According to renowned researcher Richard Passwater, PhD, oligomeric proanthocyanidins are a powerful bioflavonoid family of antioxidants that combat free radicals. Provided in abundance by standardized French maritime pine bark (pycnogenol), red wine, and grape seed extracts, they can boost immunity, ease allergy symptoms, and reduce inflammation, the effects of stress, and the risk of cancer and more than sixty other diseases.

• Oregano Oil Extract: This herb combats bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Products standardized for the highest levels of carvacrol, with high antioxidant activity, have proven most effective, particularly against Candida albicans (yeast), Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Salmonella

• Probiotics: Your digestive system contains 70–80% of all your body’s immune cells, so a strong immune system begins with healthy digestion. Antibiotics, prednisone, oral contraceptives, and cortisol-generating stress, among other factors, can cause flora imbalances in the digestive tract. Extensive research supports the efficacy of a wide variety of probiotic strains, and many have targeted functions. Each person requires a different combination and potency, depending on their health concern.

• Quercetin: This flavonoid (a plant-made chemical with antioxidant activity) is found in numerous plants (apples, berries, Brassica vegetables, onions/shallots, tea, certain kinds of honey, tomatoes, seeds, and nuts). Studies have proven it is anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and active against fat oxidation, platelet aggregation, and capillary permeability.

• Thymus Glandular Extract (usually bovine): The health of the thymus gland largely determines that of the immune system. It is active only through puberty, then begins to shrink slowly. By age 50, only 1/16 of the thymus gland remains to support health. Its production and release of the hormone thymosin stimulates white blood cell production. It also releases other hormones that regulate

other immune functions. Studies have shown that thymus extract functions as a thymus gland substitute, particularly against respiratory and other infections, asthma/hay fever, and food allergies (with an elimination diet).

• Vitamin C: This water-soluble antioxidant suppresses oxidative stress to protect proteins and fats from free radical damage. This process increases the life span of immune cells, reduces infection-related cell damage, and may also help to prevent the onset of infections. According to Dr. Linus Pauling, the foremost authority on vitamin C, it can decrease the risk of getting certain cancers by 75%.

• Vitamin D-3: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased autoimmunity and susceptibility to infection. According to the Institute of Medicine, serum levels greater than or equal to 50 nmol/L are sufficient for 97.5% of the population. Concentrations over 125 nmol/L are associated with potential adverse effects.

• Zinc: Zinc is essential for many cellular functions, including immune support. Zinc gluconate lozenges have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of the common cold, ideally when used at symptom onset.

While acute and chronic health conditions can certainly call for physician intervention, the lifestyle choices and natural remedies mentioned here are time-honored and well-studied approaches to enhancing and maintaining immunity.

If you’re concerned about your immune system, please reach out for guidance through vitathenawellness.com, or text EMPOWERME to 202.270.5612.

Submitted by Erika Dworkin, BCHN (Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®), Wellness Guide and former owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe in Manchester, CT (www.cthealthshop. com), which operated for 65 years. See this full article online at www.naturalnutmeg.com. To read more about this topic, contact to get a copy of her chapter in the 25 practitioners’ collaborative book, The Energy Medicine Solution: Mind-Blowing Results to Live Your Extraordinary Life. All statements in this article are practice- or scientific evidence-based, and references are available upon request. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, are for educational purposes only, and are not intended to take the place of a physician’s advice. Erika is available for nutrition consultations and to speak to groups, in person or via Telehealth or Zoom. She can be contacted by phone at 860.646.8178, or by email at edworkin@vitathena. com. Office Hours By Request. Visit www.vitathenawellness.com to contact Erika for a Complimentary 20-Minute Wellness Assessment.

See ad on page 29 >

“Traditional medicine certainly has a place in crisis management, but conventional physicians have limited drugs in their toolbox to address ailments. Those medications are primarily designed to address symptoms rather than optimize longterm wellness.

Fortunately, a natural approach offers a broader selection of time-tested ways to prevent and support compromised immunity.”

—Erika Dworkin, BCHN ®

Natural Tools to Help with Anxiety

Ifyou are like many others these days, you might sometimes feel anxious, overwhelmed, or as though you’re struggling to move forward with your goals. We have many triggers for these types of emotions in our overstimulated society. Our new world, filled with so much information in the news and social media bombarding us constantly, is one of the main causes. Combining this information overload with our near-constant use of technology—for both work and pleasure—never gives us a break.

The teens and young adults I see in my practice suffer the most from these debilitating issues. This can manifest in many ways, such as insomnia; an inability to connect with people; headaches; digestive, weight, and hormonal issues; and so on.

So, how can people manage these effects?

Healthy Routines

First, I like to start with healthy routines and habits.

A good morning routine for me starts with an early 20-minute mindfulness meditation, but I usually suggest newcomers start with 10 minutes. This tool has helped me the most in centering me and stopping the spinning brain. Besides the morning, I often take a few minutes to focus on my breathing during the day and before bed to tap into the parasympathetic nervous system, which stimulates the rest and digest response. Then, I journal for 5 minutes on gratitude and what I’d like for my day.

Typically, I exercise first to get my energy and blood going, and each day, I add in something joyful that makes me happy, whether a walk with a friend, a cup of tea with a book, drawing for 20 minutes, or whatever else brings me joy.

When stress and anxiety show their ugly heads, it’s important to have good eating habits. Mindless eating can easily turn to binge eating, especially with foods that make us feel worse, like sugar and junk foods. They wreak havoc with our blood sugar, make our energy crash, and contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression. To combat this, I make a meal plan for the day, including snacks, so I don’t go off the plan. Having a plan helps to stay on track.

At the close of our day, it is helpful to avoid looking at phones or screens at least an hour or more before bed. We need the time to unwind the mind, perhaps through journaling or reading; using a diffuser with relaxing essential oils like lavender, ylang-ylang, or clary sage; and having a cup of calming herbal tea such as chamomile, passionflower, or hops all can help create soothing bedtime rituals.

Time on Devices

Many of us cannot get away from working on computers, so taking the time to stand up and take a break, a walk, a five-minute stretch, or meditation works wonders to relieve physical and mental stress. One of the most important tools for anxiety-prone individuals is to limit time on social media. Use a timer so time doesn’t get away from you.

Treatments and Therapies

As an acupuncturist, I have seen first-hand how this ancient system of medicine helps the body and mind unwind, relax, and tap into the parasympathetic response, calming stress hormones. In addition, I often use my Tibetan singing bowl on the patient’s chest or abdomen. This sends the most amazing healing vibrations throughout the body, loosening tight muscles and allowing the body to let go.

There are herbs and supplements that can help with anxiety as well. My favorite is ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb that, when taken daily, can truly help balance the mood and alleviate stress. A good B-complex has also been shown to help.

Qigong or tai chi are like meditations in motion. During these ancient exercises, we focus on being present in the body and on the breath. These powerful exercises have been used in Asia for thousands of years for physical and emotional health.

There are many things we can do to help break the anxiety spiral, starting with healthy routines, nutritious foods, regular exercise (even a walk will do), meditation, and allowing self-care to help heal ourselves. It’s important to find what works for you.

By Donna Bunte, MSOM, LAc

Health is a licensed acupuncturist, Chinese medical practitioner, integrative nutrition health coach,

Donna Bunte,

and meditation teacher. She has been helping people get healthy, have more energy, and feel good about themselves since 1995. Donna can be reached at her office at 203.698.0793, cell at 203.253.9885, or email health@ donnabunte.com. Visit www.donnabunte.com and find her on Facebook at facebook.com/donnabuntewholehealth and Instagram at instagram.com/donnabuntewholehealth/. See ad on page 41 >

“When stress and anxiety show their ugly heads, it is important to have good eating habits, too. Mindless eating can easily turn to binge eating, especially with foods that make us feel worse, like sugar and junk foods.”

—Donna Bunte, MSOM, LAc

MSOM, LAc , of Donna Bunte Whole

and qigong

By Agnes Daddona

7 Benefits of a Psychic Reading

Inrecent challenging years, the popularity of my readings has skyrocketed as more and more individuals turn to me as their spiritual advisor for guidance and insight. I offer a variety of types of readings.

• Psychic Reading focuses more on the past, now, and future.

• Angel Reading allows you to receive guidance from your Spirit Guides and Angels.

• Mediumship Reading will connect to your loved ones on the other side.

I incorporate my therapeutic background experience, life coaching skills, and healing abilities into each session. All this gives me a solid foundation to help virtually anyone who enters my world. I often combine all the types of different readings into what I call Intuitive Reading, where I can see all things as a whole, which works for a better future for you.

Those clients who have experienced the benefits firsthand attest to the transformative power of my readings. Whether seeking answers about your love life, career, or personal growth, my readings can offer you a unique and valuable perspective that often goes beyond conventional advice. There are numerous benefits of my Intuitive Readings, which shed light on how it can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, personal development, and positive transformation in your life.

Here’s how my Intuitive Readings can help you!

1. Gaining Clarity, Insight, and Making Better Decisions

One of the primary benefits of my intuitive readings is gaining clarity and insight into various aspects of your life. Many of my first-time clients feel lost and confused in life. My reading can give you a new perspective on life and help you move on, especially if you are looking for solutions to difficult situations and are unsure how to proceed. It allows you to see multiple sides of a problem and offers fresh solutions, insights, and views that can lead to additional clarity and assistance in taking the next step in a new direction.

2. Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles

Life is filled with obstacles and challenges that can leave us feeling stuck or directionless. A reading can serve as a powerful tool for overcoming these hurdles. By identifying underlying causes and patterns of behavior, a reading can help you break free from negative cycles and embrace positive change. Something you perceive as wrong or bad in your past might appear good when we unveil the bigger picture of your life. We might even discover that the event you thought was the worst thing that could have happened has been nothing but a life lesson that helped you move on. My guidance is essential in helping you see and release the hurdles that are blocking hope and goodness from entering your life.

3. Providing Validation and Confirmation

Certain circumstances or instances can rob you of your confidence and make you doubt yourself— personally or professionally. Perhaps you need validation to restore the lost confidence and feel good about yourself. In such situations, a reading with me can validate your actions and help you understand why things happen when they happen. If you struggle with certain feelings, I can provide a deeper insight and confirm what you might already know, suspect, or feel strongly about.

4. Self-Exploration and Personal Growth

An Intuitive Reading can be a catalyst for self-exploration and personal growth. By delving into your inner thoughts and emotions, a reading can help you unearth hidden desires, talents, or potential paths in life that you may not have discovered yet. It allows you to better understand yourself, including your strengths, weaknesses, and core values. With this knowledge, you are better equipped to align your actions with your true purpose, leading to personal fulfillment and growth.

“Life is fi lled with obstacles and challenges that can leave us feeling stuck or directionless. A reading can serve as a powerful tool for overcoming these hurdles. By identifying underlying causes and patterns of behavior, a reading can help you break free from negative cycles and embrace positive change.”

—Agnes Daddona

5. Relationship Insights

You can gain valuable insights into your relationships through a reading. By tapping into the energy between you and others, I provide guidance on how to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, create healthy connections, and even manifest soulmate relationships. Whether seeking advice on finding love, improving an existing relationship, or healing from a past one, a reading can shed light on the dynamics at play, helping you make more informed decisions and fostering healthier bonds.

6. Emotional Healing and Closure

To aid in your emotional healing and closure, I can connect with the spirit realm, offering messages from loved ones who have passed away that bring comfort, closure, and a sense of peace. By providing guidance and insights, a reading can help you process emotions, release emotional baggage, and find closure in unresolved situations, allowing you to move forward with a lighter heart and greater peace and acceptance.

7. Finding Your Life’s Purpose

The universe wouldn’t be the same if you weren’t born. We are all here to fulfill a purpose—but are you familiar with yours? A reading can lead you on your path to self-discovery. Once you know the real you and your life’s purpose is revealed to you, the life you lead from that point onward will be satisfying and fulfilling.This can be incredibly liberating and empowering and help you see the potential for success in your future.

Those who have experienced the benefits of a reading with me understand its power to provide guidance, insight, and clarity. An Intuitive Reading can assist you in overcoming challenges, fostering personal growth, improving relationships, and providing emotional healing and closure. Ultimately, the benefits of my readings offer a fresh perspective, unlock possibilities, and empower my clients to make better decisions on their life journey. I will connect you to your divine guidance and help you become a better version of yourself.

Agnes Daddona is one of the best Psychic/Mediums in New England. The gift of intuition runs 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. To book your Intuitive Reading, contact Agnes at www.AgnesDaddona.com, email atagnes@IntuitiveCounselingllc.com, or call 860.941.2667. See ad on page 25 >

Ask Dana! 8 Financial Planning Tips for Year-End

By Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P®

These strategies may potentially help you save on taxes and stay on track for your financial life goals:

1. 2023 income tax review.

Now is the time to assess your expected 2023 taxable income. Depending on your circumstances, consider tax planning strategies that can reduce taxable income now to reduce your tax liability or increase your taxable income now if you may be looking at higher taxes in the future. End of year is a great time to consider Roth conversions, max funding for pre-tax or Roth retirement plans, and profit sharing for business owners.

2. Investment gains/loss review.

If you are an investor with taxable, non-retirement accounts, now is the time for assessing realized capital gains and tax loss harvesting. Even though we are mindful of this for our client’s investment accounts all year, the fourth quarter of the year is the most wonderful time of the year…to harvest gains and losses! Use this time to see how you have done with your investments and determine if you want to sell to take any gains or losses in 2023.

3. Are you saving enough through your employer retirement plans?

Take a moment now to check your paystub details and see how much you have saved

this year. December 31 is the last day for elective contributions through your employer plans like 401(k)s or 403(b)s. For 2023, the maximum contributions are typically $22,500 if you are under 50, with a $7500 catch-up if you are over 50 (a total of $30,000).

4. Are you a small business owner without a retirement plan?

If the answer is yes, there may still be time to set up certain plan types. There are also new rules in the state of Connecticut that may require you to have a plan. Ask your personal advisor or tax professional what the best plan is for your business, and if you don’t have an advisor—give our team a shout, and we will be your guide!

5. Investment review time! Are you positioned for the current market conditions we are seeing today? With inflation, higher interest rates, international risks, political concerns, and more, there are many things to consider when positioning a portfolio for the future. Take this as a reminder to review your allocation and see if you are where you want to be, or simply review your accounts with a qualified advisor.

6. Feeling charitable?

For those who make larger contributions, consider the following for the most bang for the

“For those who make larger contributions, consider the following for the most bang for the buck: Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs (for those over 70.5), donating appreciated stock from taxable accounts, or clustering annual donations with donor-advised funds.”

—Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P®

buck: Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs (for those over 70.5), donating appreciated stock from taxable accounts, or clustering annual donations with donor-advised funds. This is often of interest to higher-income clients facing large tax bills.

7. How about your estate plan?

At TrinityPoint, we ask our clients, “What would you like to have happen with your money if something happened to you yesterday?” It is important to ensure beneficiary designations and estate documents are up-to-date and correct. Beneficiary payout rules have changed for inherited retirement accounts, and there may be possible higher tax rates down the road. It is advisable for higher net worth individuals to review their plans as soon as possible.

8. What makes you happiest?

As one of ourpartners, Michael Smiley, says in his year-end planning with clients, “What makes you happiest? Set a goal to do more of that—whatever it is—over the coming weeks, months, and year ahead!”

Please pause and take a moment to consider the important reminders above. You will find yourself feeling grateful you did.

And remember, seeking outside advice from professionals when you need it for tax, legal, or financial advice can make the overall process easier and less stressful for you. If you don’t know where to turn, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® is a Managing Partner with TrinityPoint Wealth, an independent SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm in Milford, CT, and Charlotte, NC. Dana advises high net-worth clients with complex needs and is sought after by individuals, families, business owners, and executives all over Connecticut and the United States. Acting as their personal CFO, Dana looks at a client’s entire financial life with a visionary lens, advising on investment portfolios, retirement planning, stock options, life transitions, exit planning for business owners, customized advanced cash-flow planning, and multi-generational wealth transfer strategies.

This material presented is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for personalized investment advice or as a recommendation or solicitation of any particular security, strategy, or investment product. TrinityPoint Wealth, nor its investment advisory representatives are permitted to provide legal or tax advice, and nothing contained in these materials should be taken as legal or tax advice. See ad on page 45 >

Naturopathic Oncology as Part of Your Cancer Care Protocol

By Dr. Korene Varano, ND, RN

Asa naturopathic physician specializing in oncology, I get asked all the time, “What is naturopathic oncology, and can I incorporate it into my current treatment plan?” Naturopathic oncology is an integrative approach to cancer care that uses the evidence-informed practice of the safe and effective use of natural and supportive therapies when combined with conventional treatments as outlined by the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians. There is much research literature that describes the efficacy of natural substances for cancer and how they can work independently, synergistically, or in conjunction with traditional medical treatments such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Our goal in Naturopathic Oncology Care at Roots Medical Center is to create a healthy environment both inside and outside the body while using natural therapeutics, including modern and traditional methods of treatment. Through diet and nutrition, exercise, vitamin and mineral supplementation, botanical medicine, homeopathy, targeted nutrients, and additional therapies, naturopathic medicine can support the body’s own healing abilities. We strive to empower individuals to make lifestyle changes necessary for optimal health, offering most of the therapies in-house and, when needed, providing a local referral for additional services.

Therapies in naturopathic oncology care include high-dose IV vitamin C or ascorbic acid, hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy, acupuncture, infrared or IR sauna, colon hydrotherapy, and more.

Intravenous Vitamin C

When vitamin C is given intravenously, much higher doses can be administered than when taken orally, making IV vitamin C more effective. Intravenous vitamin C has been extensively studied and published in cancer research journals as well as the National

Institute of Health (NIH) and the National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health for well over a decade.

IV vitamin C is shown to enhance chemosensitivity, reduce chemotherapy toxicity, and reduce inflammation and disease states in cancer patients. It has also been shown to improve quality of life for patients undergoing radiation therapy and chemotherapy; decrease chemotherapy-induced fatigue, nausea, insomnia, constipation, and depression; produce anti-tumor activity, and enhance reduction in tumor mass when used in combination with chemotherapy. Case reports also document several instances of tumor regression and long-term disease-free survival associated with the use of IV vitamin C.

In addition to being an effective adjunct to cancer therapy protocols, IV vitamin C has shown effectiveness in immune regulation, Parkinson’s disease, liver cirrhosis, and infectious processes, to name but a few. The following are research findings for IV vitamin C and other therapies used in naturopathic cancer care.

• “The combination of parenteral ascorbate with the conventional chemotherapeutic agents, carboplatin and paclitaxel synergistically inhibited ovarian cancer in mouse models and reduced chemotherapy-associated toxicity in patients with ovarian cancer.”

• “Ascorbic acid chemosensitizes colorectal cancer cells and synergistically inhibits tumor growth.”

• “It helps to prolong progression-free survival and overall survival of patients with late-stage triple-negative breast cancer.”

• “Complementary treatment of breast cancer patients with IV vitamin C was shown to be a well-tolerated optimization of standard tumor-destructive therapies, reducing quality of life-related side effects.”

“IR sauna is also effective in that cancer cells are killed in the level of heat the sauna reaches compared to normal healthy cells that are not damaged in the heat, and helps mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.”

—Dr. Korene Varano, ND, RN

•“Ascorbate treatment depleted ATP and induced autophagy in sensitive prostate cancer cells, resulting in cell death. Taken together with previous studies, high-dose ascorbate has the potential to be a novel treatment option to hormone-refractory prostate cancer.”

•“Pharmacological doses of ascorbic acid suppress tumor growth and metastases in hormone-refractory prostate cancer.”

There is ongoing clinical research to investigate the safe and effective use of IV vitamin C both in combination with chemotherapeutic agents and as a single-agent cancer therapy.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber

There is substantial research on the use of hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy (or HBOT, HBO2, or HBO) in combination with chemotherapy. Many complementary naturopathic treatment and supplement therapies are shown to have a synergistic effect or enhance the effects of chemotherapy and are safe to use while receiving cancer treatment. However, it is important to be closely monitored by a licensed naturopathic physician who can help determine compatibility with prescribed treatment protocols. The following are research findings regarding HBOT and cancer support.

• “There was a significant decrease in large colony size in the HBO2 group during all periods of observation. The results indicate that HBO2 is not prometastatic for breast cancer cells; rather, it restricts the growth of large tumor cell colonies.”

• “We conclude that the administration of HBO can provide many clinical benefits in the treatment of tumors, including management of highly malignant gliomas. Applied immediately before irradiation, it is safe and well tolerated by patients, causing rare and limited side effects. The results obtained with a combination of HBO/radiotherapy protocol proved to be especially favorable compared to radiation treatment alone. HBO can also increase the cytostatic effect of certain drugs, which may render standard chemotherapy more effective. The currently available data support the legitimacy of conducting further research on the use of HBO in the treatment of malignancies. “

•“HBOT has gained great clinical recognition over the decade. It has been demonstrated that HBOT has considerable effects on carcinoma, especially on decreasing complications and improving mortality.”

Infrared Sauna

The benefit of inducing a fever to facilitate health and healing has been well-known for centuries. Hyperthermia treatments such as

hydrotherapies, saunas, and fango have been studied extensively in the medical field. Specifically, infrared sauna, also known as IR sauna, is one of several forms of hyperthermic treatment shown in research to be effective in cancer care.

Infrared heat is a form of energy that warms muscles and tissue directly without heating the air. The body produces infrared energy to keep us warm and repair body tissue. Infrared energy is radiated through the skin to dilate blood vessels and capillaries, increase oxygenated blood flow to muscles and joints, reduce muscle spasms and promote healing of injured and sore muscle fibers, improve lymphatic flow to reduce swelling and inflammation, stimulate cellular and enzyme activity, and increase immune system activity while increasing white blood cell count.

IR sauna is also effective in that cancer cells are killed in the level of heat the sauna reaches compared to normal healthy cells that are not damaged in the heat, and helps mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Acupuncture

Treatment with acupuncture has been extensively researched in over fifteen thousand studies. It has been shown to be beneficial in people dealing with not only cancer but also “in adult postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and in postoperative dental pain...other situations such as addiction, stroke rehabilitation, headache, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma,” according to a statement from The National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference. Further research shows that acupuncture reduces pain and improves the quality of life in people living with cancer.

There are different forms of beneficial acupuncture, including magnetic acupuncture, which uses a pulsating electromagnetic field to balance energy deficiencies; electroacupuncture, which does not use a magnetic field; and auricular acupuncture. Each form of acupuncture has been shown to reduce pain intensity and duration.

Colon Hydrotherapy

A colonic treatment is a gentle, temperature-controlled, continuous flow of warm water in and out of the colon as it detoxifies the major organs of elimination (the colon and lymphatic system) while restoring normal bowel function. Studies have found that autoimmune and cardiac diseases are often the result of low-grade infections in the gut without producing any symptoms in the person. The low-grade infection causes inflammation, which then attacks other parts of the body that may be weakened.

There are many schools of thought regarding the causes of cancer and what prompts the DNA replication of one cell to mutate or miscopy and replicate into a tumor. It has been theorized to be due to an infectious process, toxin build-up in the body systems, environmental exposure, genetic inheritance, and progression of minor mutated cell replications over time, among others. Therefore, daily elimination of waste and detoxification is important when there is cancer in the body.

Colon hydrotherapy allows for the increased absorption of vitamin A, enhances the immune system, removes toxins that may be released by the breakdown of cancer cells, and is very hydrating to the colon and, therefore, to the entire body.

Diet and Targeted Nutrients

We can’t consider naturopathic cancer support without discussing diet and nutrition. Food is medicine, and what we eat tells our body how to function. Therefore, we can eat foods that enhance cancer cell growth, or we can eat foods that help create an internal environment that is hostile to cancer cell growth. An individualized nutrition plan is crucial to any cancer protocol because killing cancer cells is not enough—we must inhibit cancer cells from growing, which is in part due to what we eat.

Every human being is unique, and there is not one diet that is necessarily right for everyone. There are general guidelines, however, that can be practiced to decrease generalized inflammation and enhance immune system function, such as avoiding simple and refined sugars, processed foods, and artificial additives. Eat healthy, lean meats that are not prepared with hormones, steroids, or antibiotics.

With the basis of food influencing how our body responds to cancer, consider the decades of research that has been and is being done at the National Institute of Health on targeted nutrients and cancer cells. Here are just a couple out of dozens of studied targeted nutrients and how they affect cancer cells.

Curcumin

Many people are aware of the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory role curcumin plays in cancer support. However, it has a much more intimate effect on certain cancer cell lines. Research findings include:

• “Our data provide the first evidence that the downregulation of Notch-1 by curcumin may be an effective approach for the treatment of osteosarcoma.”

• “Curcumin suppresses proliferation and induces apoptosis in human biliary cancer cells through modulation of multiple cells signaling pathways.”

“Many complementary naturopathic treatment and supplement therapies are shown to have a synergistic effect or enhance the effects of chemotherapy and are safe to use while receiving cancer treatment.

However, it is important to be closely monitored by a licensed naturopathic physician who can help determine compatibility with prescribed treatment protocols.”

—Dr. Korene Varano, ND, RN

•“Curcumin inhibits JNK pathway and plays a role in epigenetic regulation of prostate cancer cells by repressing H3K4me3.”

• “Emerging evidence suggested that the dietary agent curcumin exerted its anti-cancer activities via targeting cancer stem cells of various origins such as those of colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, brain cancer, and head and neck cancer…”

•“Our results showed that curcumin exhibited antitumor effects in breast cancer cells with an induction of apoptosis.”

Grape Seed Extract

There are many health benefits of grape seed extract, primarily targeting the circulatory system. It’s helpful in treating chronic venous insufficiency by increasing blood flow, edema, wound healing, cholesterol management, and cancer support. Here’s what the research says about grape seed extract:

• “High concentrations of GSE inhibited cell proliferation and apoptosis. Conversely, low GSE concentration decreased cell migration and invasion…. These results make GSE a powerful candidate for developing preventive agents against cancer metastasis.”

• “Grape seed proanthocyanidins induce apoptosis and inhibit metastasis of highly metastatic breast carcinoma cells.”

•“There is a high potential to use PE extracts clinically as an optional adjuvant therapeutic drug for therapeutic intervention strategies in cancer therapy or chemoprevention.”

•“Experimental studies have shown...antineoplastic effects...radiomodulatory, chemomodulatory, chemopreventive effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and immunomodulatory activities, properties that are efficacious in the treatment and prevention of cancer. “

Creating a healthy environment both inside and outside the body and supplementing the body with the tools it needs to target cancer cells is the foundation of Naturopathic Oncology Care at Roots Natural Medical Center.

Dr. Korene Varano is a board certified and licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Connecticut. She specializes in oncology and alternative cancer therapeutics. Her care focuses on building hope, strength, and courage with each patient and family member she encounters. For more information, please contact Dr. Varano at Roots Natural Medical Center, 106 Rt 66, Columbia, CT 06237, call 860.471.1434, or visit us on our website at www.rootsmedicalcenter.com.

See ad on page 47 >

Research shows that daily probiotic consumption reduces the incidence and duration of cold and flu-like symptoms in children.”

Immune Support for Your Little Ones!

By Dr. Nicole Aviles, ND

With the back-to-school season behind us and the winter season approaching, now is an opportune time to think about how best to prepare our children’s developing bodies for the challenges of being surrounded by their peers, school faculty, visiting family members, and their accompanying pesky pathogens! Generally, the immune systems of school-aged children are strong enough to combat the numerous pathogens they are constantly exposed to. The primary goal at this age, then, is to decrease the frequency of illnesses and accelerate healing so they feel better more quickly. So be sure to protect your little ones this season with the following safe, gentle tips for building and maintaining a robust immune system.

Nutrition

Zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D are essential for immunity. Getting adequate sunlight and eating a whole-food, balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables provides the body with the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed to maintain a healthy immune system.

• Zinc can be found in foods like oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, beans, and lentils.

• Vitamin C can be found in foods like citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, and broccoli.

• Vitamin D is best obtained from sunlight. Supplementation is an option, but levels should be tested first to be safe.

Hydration

The cells of the immune system rely on the circulatory system to reach infected tissues. Large amounts of water are lost each day to urination, defecation, breathing, and sweating. To prevent dehydration, water intake should exceed water loss. The general recommendation suggests that each person drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. However, individual hydration requirements vary. A better recommendation would be to take your weight in pounds., divide it by 2, and drink that amount of water in ounces each day.

Probiotics

A large portion of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract, so supporting gut health significantly impacts immunity. Research shows that daily probiotic consumption reduces the incidence and duration of cold and flu-like symptoms in children. Beneficial probiotic bacteria may be supplemented or can be found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, tempeh, and fermented vegetables (pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi).

Playing outdoors not only enhances vitamin D levels but also improves the diversity of the gut microbiome.

Botanical Medicines

• Echinacea purpurea: Research findings show that supplementing with Echinacea may not only help prevent respiratory tract infections but may also reduce the risk of complications, such as secondary bacterial infections and the need for antibiotics.

“A large portion of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract, so supporting gut health significantly impacts immunity.

—Dr. Nicole Aviles, ND

• Sambucus nigra: Also known as elderberry, Sambucus nigra is an antimicrobial herb that has been used for centuries to treat the common cold and influenza. When taken shortly after symptoms begin, elderberry may help to reduce the severity and duration of illness.

Sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for both success at school (improved focus and memory) and for maintaining a healthy immune system. Generally, school-aged children require 9–11 hours of sleep. Preschool-aged children require 10–13 hours of sleep, and teenagers require 8–10 each evening. Quality sleep can be achieved by practicing healthy habits such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, minimizing artificial light exposure at night, and sleeping in a cool, dark room.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy, or the use of water for healing, has been practiced for centuries as an effective, natural treatment for a number of health conditions. “Magic socks” is an example of such a treatment that may help stimulate the immune system. It involves the application of ice-cold socks before bedtime and enhances the circulation of the immune cells as the vital force is provoked to warm the socks by morning.

Directions:

1. Soak cotton socks in ice-cold water and wring out excess.

2. Place cold, wet socks on your feet and cover them with thick, wool socks.

3. Keep both layers on overnight. Your feet and socks should be completely dry by morning. Support your little ones’ immune systems this season by implementing daily healthy dietary and lifestyle habits and safely supplementing with nutrients and botanical medicines. As always, please consult with your child’s doctor or other qualified health professional before implementing any new supplements or dietary and lifestyle changes.

Dr. Aviles is a naturopathic doctor at Whole Health Natural Family Medicine in Hamden, CT, where she specializes in women’s health and pediatrics. She has a special interest in 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. Whole Health Natural Family Medicine, 203.288.8283, admin@wholehealthct.com See ad on page 13 >

Can Hypnotherapy Really Help with Anxiety?

By Marcel Touponse & Erin Touponse

Iamanxious by nature. Not a tragedy, but it deeply impacted my quality of life. Restless nights of little sleep would lead to foggy days of lowered efficiency and little joy, which, in turn, led to more restless nights of little sleep as I searched for answers in the random patterns of light and shadow on the ceiling.

This unfortunate process continued until I discovered the power of hypnotherapy. My compulsion to outthink life’s circumstances was replaced with a redirected subconscious mind, finding joy in the present moment. Stress is manageable, and anxiety is fleeting. Yes, stress and anxiety. They’re different but related, and as we delve into corrective methods, it’s important to understand the distinction.

Understanding Stress and Anxiety

Stress is a reaction to an external cause. Being pulled in several different directions throughout the course of a day will lead to stress. Balancing self, family, and work isn’t easy, and when time becomes a factor, it’s natural to experience stress over whether you’ll get it all done. Once the last task is complete and you’ve settled in for the evening, the daily stress is usually gone.

But what happens when the stress doesn’t leave right away? Your boss has asked you to join a

committee that extends your day by fifteen minutes, making it all but impossible to be on time for your child’s soccer practice. So, after your evening repose, you dig into this situation. Soccer is important to your child, and you can’t rely on anyone else for a ride. Do you ask your boss to reconsider placing you on that committee? Will that jeopardize your job? Is this even the right job?

You see where I’m going here. Your internal process has fed and watered your stress until it grew into anxiety.

So, what now? If there’s a simple remedy for anxiety, it’s mindfulness. Mindfulness is a state of mind achieved by focusing on our awareness of the present moment. Anxiety is our attempt to solve issues that may or may not happen in the future. You’re ignoring your present during this process. Hypnotherapy is one of the most effective methods for establishing a lasting, mindful approach to honoring the present moment and experiencing the joy therein.

Hypnotherapy to Tame Your Anxiety

Breathing, and focusing on your breathing, are key here, just as it is in meditation. All therapeutic hypnotic inductions are associated with breathing. Focusing on the rhythm and quality of each inhale and exhale is essential

“Once in a hypnotic state, suggestions are delivered that augment confidence, peace of mind, gratitude, and joy. Everyone’s different, and nuance is important, but the desired outcome is the same: developing an approach that works—objective analysis of their situation, sound planning, and trust in the plan.”

—Marcel Touponse

preparation for hypnotherapy. The most effective way to find the present moment is to focus on deep, restorative breaths.

Once in a hypnotic state, suggestions are delivered that augment confidence, peace of mind, gratitude, and joy. Everyone’s different, and nuance is important, but the desired outcome is the same: developing an approach that works—objective analysis of their situation, sound planning, and trust in the plan. With each action, there is clarity. When not acting, rest. All the while, the suggestions that have been carefully chosen and implemented have rewired the subconscious mind to support this mindful approach. New neural pathways have replaced the old. Responses to life’s circumstances have changed for the better. The pattern of anxiety is replaced with a mindful and joyous approach to the day, regardless of what may come.

Which leads me to my characterization of anxiety—it’s the world’s worst bet. You’re taking today’s most precious resource—your energy— and placing it on the roulette wheel of things yet to pass, most of which will never happen. Planning for every potential outcome on a daily basis does nothing more than feed our insecurities. When coping with a situation, ask yourself, “Is there something I can do about this right now?” If so, do it. If not, you’re most likely between steps. Rest. The more joy you experience in the present, the more prepared you’ll be for whatever comes— whether you’ve planned for it or not.

Marcel Touponse is a Hypnotherapist, Sound Healer, Life Coach, and Tarot Reader. He co-owns The Blackbird House in Old Wethersfield 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.

Erin Touponse is a Mystic Healing Reiki, is a Reiki Master/Teacher, Hypnotherapist, Pranic Healer, Tarot Scholar, and student of Shamanic studies. She is co-owner of The Blackbird House in Old Wethersfield and author of Soul’s Journey—A Practical Guide to Reading the Tarot. Her goal is to help you “awaken your inner healer.” Erin offers classes including Reiki, Tarot, and Master Healer Workshops. See ad on page 7 >

Healing Dis-Ease: The Power of Listening in Silence and Stillness

By Ray Beyor

Ivividly recall the day Deborah Bentley celebrated her 50th birthday, back when I was just 16. It was a warm summer day in her studio as a few other yoga students straggled in to take her class. We faced the windows overlooking a serene patio with a hot tub and a field where sheep grazed in the distance.

Only five years later, right after college, as I settled into my own apartment, the news of Deborah’s passing from cancer reached me—an illness she had kept hidden from me and many others. She had been my mentor since I was twelve until I left for college, and thereafter our communication was limited to letters. Memories of our shared experiences rushed back, like the time she disclosed her allergy to alcohol during a heartfelt conversation about our learned codependent and passive-aggressive behaviors, both of us being recovering children from alcoholic families.

The Healing Power of Meditation

The pain of losing her is still palpable, even though I had only scratched the surface of knowing her. Nevertheless, she played an instrumental role in shaping who I am today. It was Deborah who introduced me to the profound importance of meditation. At the tender age of sixteen, she taught me how to process and transform my emotions

through Rebirthing Breathwork (created by Leonard Orr), a healing practice with the power to unlock stored energy. If left unaddressed, this energy can wreak havoc on our minds and bodies. Studies have proven that meditation can positively impact the mind, and in turn, the body. The belief that we can achieve something and the commitment to make it happen can work wonders. Watch an animal break through a fence or a determined child get what they want—they do not let limiting beliefs stop them.

Use Your Yin Tools

But there’s a larger, often unspoken aspect to my mentor’s sickness that is prevalent in our world. Women often carry the emotional labor for others, expected to take care of everyone else but themselves. Deborah did not discover yoga and breathwork until her late 40s, after enduring an abusive, alcoholic husband and a dysfunctional family structure for most of her adult life. Those who bear the weight of emotional burdens are often the most vulnerable to dis-ease, and their experiences and pain can serve as lessons for our collective healing.

Those who survive a death scare may understand what I am talking about. It is those lessons you gain by contemplating how you became

“To prevent the repetition of these lessons, we must embrace our feminine energies (Yin) and turn inward, listening to the wisdom that already resides within us.”

—Ray Beyor

susceptible to sickness and your subsequent recovery that make you more aware of how special you are and what power you hold. To prevent the repetition of these lessons, we must embrace our feminine energies (Yin) and turn inward, listening to the wisdom that already resides within us. No longer can the days of “battling” or “fighting” our illness be the tools we use to heal. We must adopt true Yin tools—sitting with, giving attention to, creating space for, and actively listening to our inner selves.

Meditation (Breathwork, Prayer, and Sun Dances) has been part of our ancestral heritage and has stood the test of time for a reason. That is why I am providing Free Meditation Practice sessions on YouTube. (www.youtube.com/@RAYLifeCoaching)

I also find that once we, as women, stand up for the feminine principle and act from this inner knowing, we will provide a safe haven for all to tap into this energy and use it to heal ourselves and this world. That is why I have created “The Confidence Tool Kit,” which you can download for free at raylifecoaching.com/free-resources.

Furthermore, I conduct speaking engagements and workshops, both in-person and online, to empower women to embrace their unique nature, engage in consensual conversations, set personal boundaries, and build fulfilling lives with newfound independence. Check these offerings out by visiting raylifecoaching.com/workshops.

Women are the guardians and custodians of this listening and holding energy. If you identify or were brought up as a woman, please consider joining my Meetup group, “Northeast CT LGBTQ Women’s Empowerment Meetup Group.” This community offers support, gatherings, and much more, all run and attended by women. Visit meetup.com/ northeast-ct-lgbtq-womens-empowerment-meetup-group/events/ to learn more.

Ray Beyor, owner of RAY Life Coaching, provides her clients with resources and practices that clarify their values, set steps toward their purpose, and master confidence while facing fears with patience, compassion, and accountability. Ray’s training in attachment theory, codependency, yoga, meditation, polyamory, consent work, dance, and astrology is used to guide her clients into their authentic and abundant selves. To schedule a free call or learn more, please visit www.reneebeyor.com. See ad on page 13 >

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Do We Have the Power to Change Our Reality Through Thought?

By Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

Almost twenty years ago, before I launched my first magazine, I walked away from a job I truly loved. It seems that so often, a crisis like this is what ends up sending you down a path to finding your true soul purpose. That is exactly what happened to me, and to this day, I am so grateful for that experience because it sent me down a path to discovering and creating a spiritual practice.

Spirit Having a Human Experience

The most profound insight came when I met the director of an Energy Medicine school shortly after I launched Natural Nutmeg. She said to me in a whisper, “You see, Diane, at this school, we believe that we are all spirits having a human experience.”

What?! I still remember sitting there staring at her, with my jaw open, as I wrapped my head around what she said. I’d never heard anything like that before. But there was a part of me that statement resonated with so clearly and profoundly, I knew it to be true to the very core of my being. We ARE spirits having a human experience, and we do, indeed, have the power to change our reality through thought. The proof is right in front of our eyes—if we’re awake enough to see it.

You may remember from my March publisher letter that I was attending the Dr. Joe Dispenza Week-Long Advanced Retreat in April. I’ve always been a big believer in the ability to heal your body with your thoughts—but after attending this retreat, there is not a shred of doubt in my mind. Not only did I see people get out of wheelchairs and walk with my own eyes, but there was extensive research on the healing effects of meditation and energy medicine presented by Dr. Hemal Patel, MD, PhD, from UC San Diego.

They showed us study after study examining meditators at these retreats whose blood plasma shut down cancer cell metabolism, where tumors were eliminated on follow-up scans, where autoimmune markers for MS and ALS disappeared, where cells had literally been changed in a seven-day period, and where diseases ceased to exist—even in people who had a particular disease for most of

their life! The power of our mind to heal our body is a power I believe we all innately have, but sadly has been forgotten. And quite honestly, most of us were never taught how to access and apply this ability.

Directing the Energy

The first experience I had with directing energy from thought was when I was 14 years old. And no—I didn’t have any idea what I was doing, but I remember it clearly. There was a boy at school who I had a huge crush on, but I’d never even spoken to him. A school dance was coming up, and I was just dying to go with him. Every night for what seemed like weeks, I would lay in bed visualizing him calling me on the phone and asking me to the dance. I would imagine us slow dancing and his arms around me with my head on his chest. I think I even made up a scent of what his cologne would smell like. I was creating an image in my mind that was so close to reality that my brain didn’t know the difference.

A week before the dance, our house phone rang. My mom answers it and then yells up to me, “Diane, it’s for you.” I picked up the phone and who do you think it was? Yep—the boy I’d been dreaming about, and he was calling to ask me to the dance. Do you think that was a coincidence?

Fast forward thirty years, and I started learning about how I literally made my dream a reality. Directing energy requires tapping into and connecting with the quantum field or what we can call consciousness. The definition of the quantum field, according to Dr. Joe Dispenza, “is an invisible field of energy and information—or you could say a field of intelligence or consciousness—that exists beyond space and time. Nothing physical or material exists there. It’s beyond anything you can perceive with your senses.”

These quantum fields really do exist throughout space, and experiments show not only that they do exist but the magnitude of their effects as well. To connect with this field of intelligence, you must raise your energy to a level equal to it. This requires staying in the present moment and feeling elevated levels of joy and love.

“We ARE spirits having a human experience, and we do, indeed, have the power to change our reality through thought. The proof is right in front of our eyes-if we’re awake enough to see it.”

—Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

Albert Einstein summarized this nicely, “Everything is energy, and that’s all there is to it. Match the frequency of the reality you want, and you cannot help but get into that reality. It can be no other way. This is not philosophy, this is physics.”

Maintaining an Elevated Emotion

How we create what we want is dependent on how well we can maintain an elevated level of emotion to tap into and stay on the same vibratory level as our creation. The problem is that as we go through our day, we experience challenges, problems, and negative interactions with others, and we slowly lose our elevated state. We become unconscious, so to speak, and go back to operating at a lower vibration or energy level. If this happens day after day, month after month, year after year, our body becomes conditioned or addicted to these negative emotions and thoughts. Over the years, the body begins to create programming that keeps us stuck in these negative emotions through unhealthy relationships, unfulfilling jobs, and even chronic disease. The scary thing is that we don’t even realize this is happening!

So, how do we do this if most of the time we don’t even realize we’re “unconscious”? How do we use our thoughts to direct energy and create something out of nothing? How do we hold on to an elevated level of emotion day to day? It’s an ongoing process that I work on every day.

One of the tools I am slowly mastering is not being attached to how or when something you want appears in your life, of being so joyful and connected that I don’t even care if I have this “thing” I’m after—it doesn’t define me, it’s not my identity. I believe this is how people can create spontaneous healing from cancer or other terminal illnesses. When you’re in such a state of joy, even while having this illness—that’s when the disease will leave your body. Essentially, my understanding is that you can tap into disease OR you can tap into health. Your cells can change in an instant. When you are in this state of joy, you become a different person. The old identity had the disease; the new identity is healthy.

Extraordinary Things Have Happened

What I can tell you about my experience with these types of daily meditations is that in addition to the increase in patience I’ve had, extraordinary things have been happening in my life since I started just six months ago. In my meditations, I’ve been focusing on growing and diversifying our writers and advertisers, and over the last month, I’ve brought on 13 new practitioners. Those are unheard-of results in all the years I’ve been publishing. We increased our page count for the first time in 10 years. Unbelievable synchronicities and amazing people have

come into my life to offer support and collaboration. We’ve been getting so many emails from readers saying the last few issues of the magazines have such incredible energy and have been amazing. I’ve also had extraordinary changes in my personal life as well that I’ll go into in a future article.

The Tools I Use

I’ve learned I need to get up from my meditation a different person than when I sat down. And I don’t get up until I feel differently. That’s the only way I can hold an elevated level of emotion throughout the day. As Einstein said, you must match the frequency of the reality you want. Abundance and vitality have a certain frequency, but I think the easiest thing to do is just feel love. If I can tap into love and pure joy in my meditations, if I can forget my programmed thoughts, then I can begin to think differently when I go about my day. I wake up each day and ask myself:

•Who do I want to be?

•What thoughts do I need to have?

•What emotions and feelings do I need to feel? When you start to think differently, your brain starts forming new neural networks, and over time, it becomes easier to stay “conscious.” You have more energy to create. I can attest to this because it’s happened to me over the last six months. Start to believe in your future more than your past. What thoughts do you want to put your intention and energy behind? If you’re able to maintain that state of being for your entire day, something unexpected and unusual should happen. It may seem like a coincidence, but really it’s the Universe speaking to you.

We all have far more control over our energy than we realize. We can choose every moment of every day how we will respond to certain situations when something “bad” happens to us, and whether that response will be positive or negative. Being more aware of choosing a negative response is the first step in becoming better at managing our energy. Then, learning to shorten the amount of time we stay in that negative emotion is key to getting back to a more positive feeling or elevated emotion. The ultimate measure of our lives is not how long we live, but rather how we are able to manage our energy in the time we are each given.

Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD, is an entrepreneur, mindset warrior, perspective shifter, and unshakable optimist. She founded Natural Nutmeg with nothing more than passion, a laptop, and a dream, and has created a socially conscious print and digital platform that has touched thousands of people in the last 17 years. Contact her at diane@naturalnutmeg.com.

“One of the tools I am slowly mastering is not being attached to how or when something you want appears in your life, of being so joyful and connected that I don’t even care if I have this “thing” I’m after— it doesn’t define me, it’s not my identity.”

—Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

The Power That Made the Body Heals the Body

By Lori Hubbard, MA

Auntie,

look. I’m gonna sit in front of these computers with my mom. If you could give me 1/100 of any pain relief, I’ll believe it…but this seems really far-fetched to me.”

This is what Kathleen Stalter’s nephew, Steve, said to her before visiting her Energy Enhancement System center, Sanaré Wellness. Steve was not a believer in the system at all, but he was in a lot of pain; he needed rotator cuff surgery, he had a problem with his knee, and because he did physical work with his hands, he always had plenty of other aches and pains. He skeptically gave the system a try.

Steve called his aunt at eight o’clock in the morning, admitting he was in shock—every bit of his pain was gone.

What Is the Energy Enhancement System?

The Energy Enhancement System (EE System) generates multiple bioactive, regenerative energy fields, including scalar waves and biophotons, that assist your body’s ability to repair and heal itself. Biophotons are light particles generated and emitted by a biological system. As cells become charged with this energy, they release toxins. Research shows that exposure to scalar fields can promote the repair of DNA. This incredible technology gives our bodies the ultimate support for improving circulation, oxygenation, and increasing cellular energy. At optimum energy levels (higher frequencies), the body can begin rejuvenating and recalibrating itself back to homeostasis.

What Are Scalar Waves, and What Do They Do?

The discovery of scalar waves is attributed to James Clerk Maxwell, a 19th-century Scottish scientist responsible for the theory of electromagnetic radiation. Many years later, Nikola Tesla demonstrated the existence of scalar energy, expounding

upon Maxwell’s discovery and referring to this energy as universal waves, or standing energy. He demonstrated scalar energy and harnessed it without using any wires or cables. Due to his work, Tesla is called the “father of electromagnetics” or scalar or radiant energy. He believed that if harnessed correctly, this energy can offer endless possibilities. Later, Einstein also acknowledged the existence of this energy, which then led to the discovery and development of quantum physics.

The revolutionary Energy Enhancement System technology was developed by Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, Ph.D, DNM, DCSJI. The system uses computers that generate bio-active energy fields called scalar waves, which promote wellness for cell rejuvenation, improved immune function, pain relief, body detoxification, elevated mood and consciousness, and balancing of the brain hemispheres for increased energy levels. Ultimately, it aids in facilitating an optimal healing environment that can assist the body to begin healing itself.

Scalar energy is formed when two identical frequencies come from opposite directions together and collide, creating a static energy field. Unlike sound or light waves, scalar waves carry out transmissions of energy without decaying over distance or time. Scalar energy is highly effective because human cells have a crystalline structure that holds energy. When a human cell is operating at maximum potential, it holds an energy charge between 70–90 millivolts. The potential for disease occurs when millivolts drop below this ideal range. When you sit in an EE session, scalar waves move through the cell, exciting and recharging it. A recharged cell will release toxins into the bloodstream that can then be released through detoxification. Research shows that exposure to scalar fields can help repair damaged DNA and assist in neutralizing harmful, human-made electromagnetic frequencies.

“The day after my session, I woke up from the best sleep I’ve had in years. I felt like I had slept for 24 hours, and I had boundless energy.

Knee pain that had been bothering me for months was entirely gone!”

—Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

What Does “The Power That Made the Body Heals the Body” Mean?

Health starts within your cells. A high electrical charge in your cells leads you to experience health, while a low electrical charge leads you to experience disease. One of the main intentions of the EE System is to charge the cells based on the principle that we interact with the energetic resonance of our environment. When spend enough time in an environment charged at 70–90 millivolts, your cells will begin to assimilate and sync to their optimal charge levels, allowing the body to heal itself.

Healthy cells are able to heal themselves and make new cells to replace those that have been permanently damaged or destroyed. Even when a large number of cells are destroyed, healthy surrounding cells replicate to make new cells, quickly replacing those that were destroyed. Through optimal energy enhancement and changes to our lifestyles, our bodies can heal and correct imbalances.

Behind Sanaré Wellness

Kathleen and Mark Stalter opened their healing center after experiencing EE System healing for themselves, giving them greater mobility, relieving their pain, and even improving Kathleen’s vision. Kathy states, “...from PTSD, depression, anxiety, autism...to cancer, bursitis, Lyme disease… If it’s a disease, the system can help.”

She tells an inspiring story of one client in particular who was brought into her center by her children. She had neuropathy, and they had to hold her up to walk her into the chair because she couldn’t feel the bottom of her feet. After the client spent six hours in the chair, Kathleen could see the group laughing and crying and walked over to see if everything was OK. The son said that for the first time in years, his mother could feel the bottom of her feet. They were tickling her feet, laughing and crying with joy.

Kathleen believes this technology’s ability to heal and give people their happiness—and their quality of life—back so quickly is a gratifying and beautiful experience, and she loves sharing it with her clients.

Sessions can be scheduled according to your needs. For clients experiencing chronic conditions, we recommend working toward a goal of at least 20 hours. The closer together the sessions are, the more optimal your results will be. Sanaré Wellness recommends a day of rest between sessions.

The effects of scalar energy are cumulative and are greatly influenced by your lifestyle. You’ll get the best results when you completely relax during your session to give your body the best opportunity to respond to the energy. We highly recommend supporting your EE sessions with diet and lifestyle changes through our holistic coaching program.

Sanaré Wellness is owned by Kathleen and Mark Stalter. Contact kathy@sanare.life and visit sanare. life to learn more. See ad on Back Cover >

Navigating ADHD: A Scientific Approach with Neurofeedback Therapy

By Jake Williams, MA, LPC

In a world that’s constantly buzzing with stimuli, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. While it’s often associated with symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, the science behind ADHD runs much deeper.

Let’s delve into the neuroscience of ADHD, exploring the brain’s role in this condition and how neurofeedback therapy offers promising support for individuals with ADHD.

Understanding the ADHD Brain: A Neuroscientific Perspective

ADHD is not simply lack of willpower or discipline. Rather, it has its roots in the brain’s intricate neural networks. To fully comprehend this condition, we must consider the following:

1. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Research suggests that individuals with ADHD often have imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemical messengers are vital in regulating attention, motivation, and impulse control.

2. Prefrontal Cortex Dysfunction: The prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, planning, and working memory, tends to function differently in those with ADHD. This can lead to difficulties in organizing tasks and maintaining focus.

3. Brain Connectivity: Studies using neuroimaging techniques have shown differences in the connectivity between various brain regions in individuals with ADHD. These differences may contribute to challenges in attention regulation.

4. Genetics and Environment: While genetics can increase the risk of developing ADHD, environmental factors also play a role. Factors like

prenatal exposure to toxins, premature birth, and childhood trauma can contribute to the development and severity of ADHD symptoms.

Neurofeedback Therapy: Rewiring the ADHD Brain

Neurofeedback therapy, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a non-invasive, promising approach to addressing the challenges associated with ADHD. Here’s how it works:

1. Brainwave Monitoring: Neurofeedback begins with monitoring the individual’s time data on brain activity.

2. Targeted Training: Based on the EEG data, sessions aim to train the individual’s brain to produce specific brainwave patterns associated with improved focus, attention, and self-regulation. These patterns are encouraged through positive feedback mechanisms.

3. Self-Regulation: Over time, individuals learn to recognize and control their brainwave activity. This self-regulation can lead to improved attention, reduced impulsivity and better executive function.

4. Personalized Approach: Neurofeedback therapy is highly individualized. The training protocols are tailored to the unique needs and brain patterns of each person with ADHD.

The Promising Results of Neurofeedback Therapy for ADHD

Numerous studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that neurofeedback therapy can yield positive outcomes for individuals with ADHD. Some potential benefits include:

1. Improved Attention: Many individuals experience increased attention span and improved focus, which can significantly impact daily tasks and academic performance.

“Neurofeedback therapy offers a promising avenue for support, helping individuals harness their brain’s potential for improved focus, self-regulation, and a more fulfilling life.”

—Jake Williams, MA, LPC

2. Reduced Impulsivity: Neurofeedback may help individuals better control their impulses and make more considered decisions.

3. Enhanced Self-Regulation: Learning to regulate our brainwave patterns can lead to better emotional regulation and reduced reactivity.

4. Medication Complement: Neurofeedback can be used alongside other ADHD treatments, such as medication, or as an alternative for those seeking drug-free options.

Seeking Help and Support

ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with its roots deeply embedded in brain function and connectivity. Understanding the science behind ADHD allows us to appreciate the significance of therapies like neurofeedback, which aim to address its neurological underpinnings.

If you or a loved one is living with ADHD, it’s crucial to recognize that hope and help are available. Neurofeedback therapy offers a promising avenue for support, helping individuals harness their brain’s potential for improved focus, self-regulation, and a more fulfilling life.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to qualified professionals who specialize in neurofeedback therapy. This non-invasive and highly individualized approach has shown promising results, offering a path towards a calmer and more focused life. Just as we acknowledge the importance of recognizing toxic relationships and negative behaviors in our mental health journey, it’s equally vital to acknowledge the presence of ADHD and take proactive steps to address its effects.

Remember, seeking help is a powerful act of self-care and self-compassion. It’s an acknowledgment that your well-being and the well-being of your loved ones are worth the investment of time and effort. With the proper support and guidance, neurofeedback therapy can transform your journey toward a brighter and more balanced future.

If you are ready to take the next step in managing ADHD for yourself or a loved one, contact a qualified neurofeedback therapist to schedule a consultation. In acknowledging the condition and seeking help, you are taking a crucial step toward understanding, acceptance, and, ultimately, a more fulfilling and calmer life.

We’re here to help. Your well-being is our priority.

Jake Williams, MA, LPC is an experienced therapist, neurofeedback provider, and cat lover. He has dedicated his life to helping people resolve traumatic experiences and overcome challenges created by focus or anxiety. See ad on page 25 >

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Local

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture of Greater Hartford Stan Baker, LAC West Hartford, CT 860.836.1068 acupuncturestanbaker.com

BIOMAGNETIC PAIR THERAPY

The BioSole, LLC

1176 Farmington Ave., Berlin, CT 06037 lisa@thebiosole.com • 860.840.7878 www.thebiosole.com

Biomagnetism uses the body’s natural process of healing to restore pH balance and achieve homeostasis. We believe illnesses and chronic conditions are often rooted in trauma and unaddressed emotional experiences.

Conditions treated include: Epstein-Barr Virus •

Lyme Disease • Respiratory Viruses • Chronic

Fatigue • Gastrointestinal • Strep Strains •

Fungus/Mold • Joint/Chronic Pain • Eczema/Skin

Conditions • Autoimmune Disorders • Neurological Disorders • Emotional Conflicts/Trauma •

Endocrine/Hormonal Imbalances • Sleep/Anxiety

BREATHWORK

The Sacred Self, LLC

Charleen K. Miele, LPC • Newington, CT 860.614.8382 • thesacredselfllc@gmail.com thesacredselfllc.com

Licensed Professional Counselor (IFS level 2 trained); Trauma Informed Breathwork Facilitator; Life, Spiritual Life, and Wellness Coach. Somatically release stored trauma and foster healing as you discover your sacred self within.

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

Beverley Blass Integrative

Health

Hartford Family Institute • BeverleyBlass.com

17 S. Highland St., West Hartford, CT 860.206.1129 • BeverleyBlass@gmail.com

Beverley Blass is an integrative intuitive healer, offering bodycentered psychotherapy, soulcentered hypnotherapy, and colon hydrotherapy. She focuses on her client’s “whole body” experience— spiritual, physical, mental, emotional health, and healing—working with you to create an all-encompassing tapestry of transformation. In-person and online sessions.

Experts In and Around Connecticut

Vitalized Performance Group

Glastonbury, CT • 860.800.6775

VPGwaves.com

VPG Waves offers an open system colonic on the LIBBE device, GAINS/Femi/AcuteWave treatments for head/face pain to toe pain, scar tissue, incontinence, and sexual wellness issues. We have ionic foot baths and biomat/infrared heat, cupping, naturopaths and acupuncture. Combining modalities for thorough healing is key!

ENERGY HEALING

Jacqueline M. Kane

Low Back Pain Specialist and Master Energy Healer

111 Main St., Collinsville, CT • 860.307.0232 jacqueline@jacquelinemkane.com jacquelinemkane.com

Jacqueline facilitates deep healing of trauma, low back pain, and chronic conditions tied to limiting mindsets impacting health and wealth. Clients’ proven results are reclaimed energy, moving freely and powerfully, and manifesting their goals aligned with soul purpose. If you’re ready to reach your health and wealth goals, visit jacquelinemkane.com.

Sanaré Wellness, LLC

92 N. Summit St., Southington, CT 06489 kathy@sanare.life • 860.600.0106 www.Sanare.Life

The future of Energy Medicine is here! This 24-unit Energy Enhancement System creates multiple bioactive, regenerative energy fields, including scalar waves and biophotons, that can assist your body’s ability to repair and heal itself from disease. The body can become capable of rejuvenating and recalibrating itself back to homeostasis.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Dana Mascalo, CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner, TrinityPoint Wealth Milford, CT • 203.693.8521 Fax: 203.693.8524 dana@trinitypointwealth.com

HOLISTIC CENTER

The Blackbird House

146 Main St., Old Wethersfield, CT theblackbirdhousect@gmail.com TheBlackbirdHouse.com • 860.416.3177

HOLISTIC COUNSELING

James Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC ProNatural Physicians Group, LLC Berlin, CT • 860.829.0707

pronaturalphysicians.com

James Osborne is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and a Fellow in the American Psychotherapy Association with over 40 years of clinical experience.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT Fairfield, CT • 203.371.0300

WholeBodyDentistry.com

A recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry, Dr. Breiner treats patients for a myriad of dental concerns including sleep breathing disorders, TMD, mercury toxicity, and hidden infections from cavitations and root canals. “If you have unexplained symptoms that won’t go away, the answer could be in your mouth.”

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.

HOMEOPATHY

Abby Beale, CCH RSHom(NA) HomeopathyHealings@gmail.com HomeopathyHealings.com • 413.426.1024

Want to get to the root cause of your chronic symptoms? Homeopathy can relieve the symptoms of depression, anxiety, women’s issues, headaches, digestive troubles, child behavior problems, and so much more. Appointments possible over Zoom and Skype.

HYPNOTHERAPY

Beverley Blass Integrative Health

Hartford Family Institute • BeverleyBlass.com 17 S. Highland St., West Hartford, CT 06119 860.206.1129 • BeverleyBlass@gmail.com

The Blackbird House is a Healing Center and Gift Shop located on Main Street in Old Wethersfield. We offer Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Pranic Healing, Massage Therapy, Tarot/Intuitive Readings and more. Our monthly schedule of events include Reiki and Tarot classes, Self Hypnosis, Sound Healing, and Intuitive Development Meetings. Visit us online to learn more.

The Blackbird House

Beverley Blass is an integrative intuitive healer, offering body-centered psychotherapy, soul-centered hypnotherapy, and colon hydrotherapy. She focuses on her client’s “whole body” experience—spiritual, physical, mental, emotional health, and healing—working with you to create an all-encompassing tapestry of transformation. In-person and online sessions.

Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH Middletown, CT • 860.704.9054 mprousseau@sbcglobal.net micheleprousseau.com

INTEGRATED MEDICINE

Tamara Sachs, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC

15 Bennitt St., New Milford CT 860.354.3304 • tsachsmd.com

Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by uncovering and correcting the underlying root causes of your health concerns while respecting the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She comprehensively and thoughtfully creates personalized plans explaining why and how each area of your healing will be addressed.

INTERIOR DESIGN

CMT Design Group

Carolyn Tierney • Simsbury, CT • carolyntierney.com

929.390.1742 • info@carolyntierney.com

CMT Design Group integrates beautiful design and interior style with health and wellness principles that matter to your family’s well-being. With over 20 years of experience focused on residential interior design and healthy, holistic living, our depth of industry knowledge enables us to create functional and stunning modern spaces where your family can thrive.

LIFE COACHING

Beverley Blass Integrative Health

Hartford Family Institute

17 S. Highland St., West Hartford, CT • 860.206.1129 BeverleyBlass@gmail.com • BeverleyBlass.com

Beverley Blass is an integrative intuitive healer, offering body-centered psychotherapy, soul-centered hypnotherapy, and colon hydrotherapy. She focuses on her client’s “whole body” experience—spiritual, physical, mental, emotional health, and healing—working with you to create an all-encompassing tapestry of transformation. In-person and online sessions.

MASSAGE THERAPY

Abundant Health Massage Therapy & Wellness

Farmington, CT • 860.778.0315

abundanthealthct.com

Kristina Mozzicato is Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork by the NCBTMB and has been practicing massage for the past 12 years. She provides professional, therapeutic, customized sessions. In addition to massage, she offers cupping, medicupping, body contouring, Himalayan salt stone massage, and Reiki sessions. Convenient online booking.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Dr. Adam Breiner, ND

Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258

• WholeBodyMed.com

Focusing on brain health and Lyme disease, Dr. Adam Breiner offers cutting-edge therapies that include hyperbaric oxygen, neurocognitive therapies, including sophisticated brain-imaging equipment to evaluate brain injuries and brainwave patterns associated with metabolic imbalances, infections, and allergies. Conditions treated include concussions, TBI, stroke, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.

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The Bio-Tracker checks the following....

Adrenal Glands

Thyroid Glands

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Lymph System

Gallbladder Urinary Bladder

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Ess. Fatty Acids

Reproductive System Carbohydrate Metabolism

Naturopathic & Acupuncture Health Center

Dr. Marie Mammone, Dr. Renee Mammone, NDs, John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 860.529.1200 • www.NAHcenter.com

Roots Natural Medical Center

106 Route 66 East • Columbia, CT 06237 860.471.1434 • info@rootsmedicalcenter.com rootsmedicalcenter.com

Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing foundational root causes to complex chronic disease. The goal of the clinic is to properly identify, diagnose and treat patients with unexplained chronic illnesses. Our services are individualized, and patient focused, as medicine should be.

Soleil Acupuncture and Naturopathic Wellness

2661 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT 203.871.3262 • admin@soleilholistic.com soleilholistic.com

Soleil is a holistic clinic specializing in integrative and functional medicine. We are pleased to offer IV and IM nutrient therapy, craniosacral therapy, and general and facial acupuncture, with our roots in naturopathic medicine. We are passionate about using our tools to get our patients feeling their best!

Vis Wellness Center, LLC

Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc Rocky Hill, CT & Virtual Visits (234) 2-ACU-DOC hello@drnicoleklughers.com DrNicoleKlughers.com

West Hartford

Naturopathic Medicine

Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT 860.232.9662 • www.DRAIETA.com

NEUROFEEDBACK

Jake Williams, MA, LPC Rocky Hill, CT • 860.208.6964 CT Neurohealth.com

Jake is an experienced therapist, neurofeedback provider, and cat lover. He has dedicated his life to helping people resolve traumatic experiences and overcome challenges created by focus or anxiety.

NUTRITION

Erika Dworkin, BCHN®

Certified in Holistic Nutrition

Vitathena Wellness

South Glastonbury, CT • 860.646.8178 edworkin@vitathena.com • vitathena.com

Through education, Erika empowers her customers to make the decisions that best enable them to maximize their well-being and longevity. She offers private nutrition consultations and speaks regularly about various health topics.

Grant’s Nutrition & Wellness

Jane Grant, RD CD-N Berlin, CT • 860.357.2282 grantj@grantsnutrition.com grantsnutrition.com

Jane is trained in integrative and functional nutrition utilizing 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.

ORGANIC PRODUCT CO.

Farm to Bath

South Glastonbury, CT, and Virtual 860.266.5682 • info@farmtobath.com farmtobath.com

Brenda Sullivan, herbalist and maker of herbal products, uses lavender, one of her primary crops, to make natural soaps, soothing salves, aromatic oils and more. She loves knowing the medicinal benefits of herbs, because it ensures her recipes are made with only the best ingredients.

PSYCHIC/MEDIUM

Intuitive Counseling Holistic Spa

Agnes Daddona • 860.941.2667 Avon, CT • AgnesDaddona.com Agnes@intuitivecounselingllc.com

Agnes Daddona is one of the best Psychic/Mediums in New England. She is also a Counselor, Healer, and Spiritual Teacher. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people across the world in both English and Polish. Her Holistic Spa in Avon, CT, is a one-stop shop and offers high vibrational healing for the mind, body, and soul.

REFLEXOLOGY

Holistic Hands

Tara Cornish, Specializing in Reflexology, Reiki, Aromatouch & Human Energy Scans Torrington, Bantam, & Farmington, CT 860.921.8307 • HolisticHandsCT.com

Tara Cornish is an IIR Certified Reflexologist and Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher since 2005. She also offers reflexology lymph drainage and energyfield measurement. These therapies are non-invasive & safe. Tara has seen amazing benefits using holistic approaches to help heal, relax, renew, and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.

REIKI

Be One with the Flow

Washington, New Preston, Litchfield

awm440@hotmail.com

• 802.780.7977 www.beoneflow.com

Ann Moureau is a Traditional Usui Reiki Master, offering Reiki classes, hands-on and distant treatment. Ann feels the flow of energy in her yoga, Ai Chi (in the water), and forest bathing classes. Ann has been on her holistic path for thirty-three years and loves to share her practices.

ROLFING®

Rolfing®—The Art and Science of Body Change

Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, Cert. Adv. Rolfer West Hartford • 860.561.4337 sharonsklarrolfing.com

Rolfing®—The Art and Science of Body Change. A dynamic 10-session bodywork series that eases pain, improves movement, and restructures your body when you feel “out of whack.” A hands-on and educational approach that establishes order and balance after life’s injuries, stresses, and accidents. Since 1981.

SPAS/WELLNESS CENTERS

Imagine Float

290 West Main St., Avon 860.255.7771 • imaginefloat.com

THERMOGRAPHY

April Beaman, RDH, CTT

CT Thermography

Farmington and Glastonbury, CT 860.415.1150 • ctthermography.com

CT thermography specializes in medical thermal imaging. Breast thermography is a compression and radiation-free screening tool that’s used to monitor breast health to detect physiological changes that may be early warning signs of a disease process. As a Certified Thermographic Technician, I help empower women to take a proactive approach following their thermography screening for optimal breast health.

YOGA STUDIO

Sacred Rivers Yoga

East Hartford, CT • 860.657.9545

sacredriversyoga.com

Paula Scopino, E-RYT 500-Hour, C-IAYT, CT Licensed LMT, YACEP, is the owner/director of Sacred Rivers Yoga and Allied Health Therapies and “Sacred Rivers Yoga for Every Body,” a Yoga Alliance 200- and 500-hour registered school, as well as a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga herapy.)

Wednesdays, October 11, November 8, and December 13

Psychic/Spiritual Development, 6:30–8:30pm, $25 ($20 for those over 65 and veterans) The Psychic/Spiritual Development Monthly Study Groupmeets in person as well as via Zoom! New members welcome! There is a strong connection between spiritual growth and psychic development. Every session starts with a positive, light-filling exercise and includes topics such as palmistry, oracle cards, pendulums, remote viewing, and spirit guides. Reclaim your natural gifts, assist others, and live your life more joyfully!

Second Wednesday of every month unless otherwise noted.

Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200. Join our email list and find detailed descriptions at thesacredjourney.biz

The Sacred Journey, 29 Davis Road, Burlington, CT 06013. Pre-registration required to save your in-person spot: 860.675.9706

Wednesdays, October 18, November 15, and December 20

Shamanism, 6:30–8:30pm, $25 ($20 for those over 65 and veterans) The Shamanism Monthly Study Group meets in person as well as via Zoom! New members are welcome; no experience needed. You will develop an understanding of cross-cultural shamanism, the importance of ceremony, and become adept at journeying into non-ordinary reality. You will work with animal allies and spirit helpers, ancestors, and elemental energies. All dedicated and compassionate people who wish to initiate positive change in the world are invited. Third Wednesday of every month, unless otherwise noted.

Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200. Join our email list and find detailed descriptions at thesacredjourney.biz

The Sacred Journey, 29 Davis Road, Burlington, CT 06013. Pre-registration required to save your in-person spot: 860.675.9706

Oct 12–15, 2023

The Energy Medicine Solution $897 and up

During this Energy Medicine Solution Retreat, we will uncover your unconscious limiting story that is keeping you stuck in these areas: health, wealth, relationships, and the ability to create your soul-aligned life. You will experience energetic clearing processes so that you can leave feeling excited to create the life that you desire on your terms. Double Tree Hilton Hotel, Bristol, CT. Sign Up at bit.ly/EnergyRetreat2023

Saturday, November 11

The Archangel Experience, 1–3pm, $111

Join us for a multi-dimensional quantum healing experience with Archangels Michael and Uriel, using channeled music and gemstones in a powerful Scalar Wave field. Facilitated by Bradford Tilden. Everybody receives two specially charged gemstones to work with and keep; one for each Archangel. VIP guests will have the full gemstone layouts placed on them. Visit CrystalMusicHealing.com for more information about Bradford. Visit sanare.life for information on Scalar Energy Healing. Sanare Wellness 92 North Summit St. Southington. Kathy@sanare.life 860-600-0106. Please Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ the-archangel-experience-tickets-715383640727?a =oddtdtcreator

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Do you have an event (virtual or live) that you want Natural Nutmeg readers to know about? Reach out to us at calendar@naturalnutmeg. com for information on listing your event and sponsorships. Event listings are in print and online. We also accept classified listings.

ADAM BREINER, ND DAVID JOHNSTON, DO DAVID BRADY, ND, CCN

ELENA SOKOLOVA, ND JOHN D'ANGELO, MS, RPT SEAN ALTMAN, PT, DPT, CPT