BIG LOVE FROM SMALL

Big Love From Small Animals

The Joy of Furry Little Companions

by Julie Peterson

People think rabbits are quiet carrot-munchers, but they’re much more. Like many other small furry mammals, pet rabbits are expressive, intelligent and enjoy spending time with their humans.

Shana Cobin, a veterinary technician from Foster, Rhode Island, points out that just like dogs and cats, each rabbit is unique. Having had four house bunnies at different times, Cobin enjoyed getting to know each one. “They can be quite entertaining with their playful antics. My first rabbit, Koko, would come to me and lick my face,” says Cobin. “She also made a purring sound for me, which they actually make by grinding their teeth.”

Small and Sweet

For first-time pet owners, veterinarians often recommend pets smaller than dogs or cats. These can include a variety of rodents such as hamsters, gerbils, rats and mice, although guinea pigs usually top the list for their general durability, especially with children. Smaller pets can be the furry friend that a family may long for without posing the long-term commitment and higher care costs of a dog or cat.

For those that prefer a small furball that isn’t a rodent, a rabbit may be appropriate. “House bunnies are curious and very smart, which can be both terrific fun and problematic,” says Cobin, noting that “house-bun” curiosity, coupled with an intense need to chew, can wreak havoc on cords and other items within reach. “They always have to chew to keep their teeth filed down, but that’s why you give them appropriate things to chew.” Ferrets, members of the weasel family, are also intelligent, and like rabbits, can be trained to use a litter box.

Buyer Beware

Just because small animals seem simpler to care for, it should be noted that their

oleg kozlov/AdobeStock.com health depends on specific diets, bedding, housing, exercise and grooming. Rabbits, for example, have delicate digestive systems. “Feeding the right diet is extremely important,” advises Cobin. “A bunny’s primary diet should be hay, which helps grind down their teeth and is good for their digestion. Dark, leafy greens are also good.” As for carrots, Cobin says half of one is the most one rabbit should have in a day.

There is more to consider. “People need to think beyond the cute fluff ball,” says Jennifer Miller, a former volunteer with the Animal Humane Society in Minnesota. “Small animal cages need regular cleaning, and ferrets have a natural musky odor to begin with. People start out wanting the cuteness, then they get tired of the work and get tired of the smell. Surrendered animals can be difficult to rehome.” Before adopting a small animal, it’s wise to research the species’ specific care requirements and other information at HumaneSociety.org.

Annual veterinary checkups are something else to plan for, because many animals hide illness symptoms as a survival instinct. Having a small-animal veterinarian in place is important in case emergency care is required. “Zoological companion patients are unique and delicate. Their anatomy, physiology and

behavior is vastly different from dogs and cats, yet they require the same or more expertise and care,” says veterinarian Scharlet Kelly, medical director at the VCA Acacia Animal Hospital and Pet Resort, in Escondido, California.

Health Helpers

In 2019, the journal Aging & Mental Health published a survey that concluded pets benefit older adults by “providing companionship, giving a sense of purpose and meaning, reducing loneliness and increasing socialisation.”

According to Jeremy Barron, M.D., medical director of the Beacham Center for Geriatric Medicine at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, in Baltimore, “Owning a pet provides an amazing array of health benefits.” Indeed, numerous studies have shown that petting an animal can lower blood pressure and heart rate, soothe PTSD, decrease stress hormones and boost serotonin. Simply put, petting animals is not only good for people, it feels good, too. “Love can come in small packages,” says Liz Warner, a retired teacher in Richmond, Virginia, who adopted Laverne and Shirley, two Peruvian guinea pigs, to keep her company during the isolation of the pandemic. “I enjoy brushing their long coats and giving them their necessary haircuts. When I hold them, they kind of purr. It’s comforting.”

Cobin agrees that pets provide comfort and add joy to the home. “Bunnies do this thing called a binky. My most recent rabbit, Vivian Bucket, would just be hopping around and then she would dart, jump up and twist in the air. It’s what rabbits do when they are happy and playful, and it’s adorable.”

Julie Peterson writes about health and wellness from rural Wisconsin. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Shoes Off!

Keep Germs Outside

It may take some getting used to, and some friends may think it odd, but banning shoes in the house is a good idea. Research has shown that when we’re out and about, our shoes come into direct contact with a variety of microbes, including viruses and bacteria. If we walk around our homes in these same shoes without disinfecting them first, we can track in some of those germs and spread them throughout our living spaces.

Pollen and mold can also come into the house on shoes. Upping the gross factor, think about picking up fecal matter left by pets on lawns, driveways and sidewalks, as well as the human kind from public restroom floors.

Keeping the indoor sanctuary as clean as possible should be job number one, especially if one or more people in the house are allergy sufferers, immunocompromised individuals or small children that play on the floor and regularly stick things into their mouths.

Organisms survive longer in carpets, which are harder to clean and disinfect than hard floors, but the easiest solution is to leave shoes by the front door. Setting up a seat and shoe storage area at the entrance makes the transition much easier.

Designate one or two pairs as indoor shoes—they could be slippers or comfy loafers that never go outdoors. Socks or good-oldfashioned bare feet are also options. Some people swear by antimicrobial doormats, wiping their feet two or more times on the treated mat before crossing the threshold.

Periodically cleaning shoes is a good idea, too. The first step is to check the shoe manufacturer’s instructions. Some shoes, like canvas sneakers, can be placed in the washing machine and air dried. Most rubber or leather soles can be scrubbed with soapy water using an old toothbrush or a washcloth. Avoid detergents or cleaners with bleach unless the shoes are white. Thoroughly rinse off the soap to avoid making the shoes slippery.

Asking guests to remove their shoes before entering the abode may feel awkward. Be kind and gentle when making the request, explaining that it will help preserve the family’s health. And if they seem uncomfortable, be flexible. When hosting a gathering, it may be wise to give invitees advance warning of the no-shoe preference so that they can bring slippers or socks. A proactive host might even have fresh socks or house shoes available for guests.

To submit calendar listings, or for more information about submission requirements, please email Publisher@NAJax.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Twin Hearts Meditation – 6-7pm. Developed by Master Choa Kok Sui, this advanced meditation technique is aimed at achieving illumination of universal consciousness. This is a free service by instructor Falli Shah, to bring more positive awareness and harmony to the community. Bring a mask. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. 904-381-8686. Register: Seventh-Wonder.com/events.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Spiritual Enrichment Classes – 7pm. Visit the website for class information. All classes are conducted via Zoom. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-2871505. UnityInJax.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk

by videoconference – 6:30pm. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register 904-375-9517 or Jacksonville@TM.org for connection information by email or text.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Kundalini Yoga – 9-10am. With Ashley Ireland. Yoga of awareness awakens your full potential through stimulating Kundalini energy, dormant at the base of your spine, causing the energy to rise up through the energy centers, or chakras, of the body. Build physical vitality and increase consciousness. Suitable for all ages and stages. $15. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville. 904-381-8686. Register: SeventhWonder.com/events. Reiki I Class – 10am-5pm. With Brian Dean. Healing self and others. 6 CEUs for Florida massage therapists. Space is limited. Hosted by Caring Palms Healing Arts. $150 with $75 deposit required at registration. Register: 904-246-2206 or Brian@ caringpalms.com or CaringPalms.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Sound Healing and Chakra Balancing – 7-8pm. Sound healing sessions create deep relaxation by using vibrations that calm your mind and body and give you mental clarity. It has been shown to relieve anxiety and insomnia, lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce respiratory rates. Sound healing is also known to give you more energy and can relieve common ailments. $35/1.5hour session. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct Ste 300, Jacksonville. 904-992-9930 or Info@mbandbcenter.com. Spiritual Enrichment Classes – 7pm. Visit the website for class information. All classes are conducted via ZOOM. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-2871505. UnityInJax.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Livin’ Libido Loco: Hormone Health – 6:30pm. With Dr. Kristy Harvell. You might be surprised to find out that your hormonal health is related to your thyroid or your adrenals. Learn how to balance your hormones and your love life naturally. Health by Design, 2002 Southside Service Rd, Jacksonville. 904-363-3374 or HealthbyDesignFL.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk– 1pm. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. 530 Beachview Drive. Postell Market, Casino Bldg. Room 112. St. Simons Island, GA, Free. Register 904-375-9517 or Jacksonville@TM.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14

Unity Church for Creative Living Sunday Ser-

vice – 10:30am. Join on Facebook Live to travel the journey of spiritual unfoldment together. Or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com. Live Channeling Circle – 5pm. Also Feb 21 & 28. Join Rev. Judi Weaver to discuss what is transpiring in the Universe and how the energies are affecting each of you. She will then elevate her consciousness to provide trance Channel messages and guidance from Universal Light Beings for the betterment of mankind and your own personal development. Questions are encouraged. $25. Holistic House of Holly Hill, 1126 Riverside Dr. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Twin Hearts Meditation – 6-7pm. Developed by Master Choa Kok Sui, this advanced meditation technique is aimed at achieving illumination of universal consciousness. This is a free service by instructor Falli Shah, to bring more positive awareness and harmony to the community. Bring a mask. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. 904-381-8686. Register: Seventh-Wonder.com/events.

Pranayama and Meditation – 10-11am. Pranayama is the conscious awareness of breath. Through guided breathing, you will increase the oxygen to your brain and all your internal organs which facilitates physical healing. Class limited to eight people. The class will be held outside if weather permits. Bring your own mat and accessories. $20. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. Register: 904-381-8686 or SeventhWonder.com/events.

Unity Church for Creative Living Sunday Ser-

vice – 10:30am. Join on Facebook Live to travel the journey of spiritual unfoldment together. Or subscribe to the YouTube Channel. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

The Energy Body: Exploring and Awakening

the Chakras – 3-4:15pm. Two-part workshop with Irene Schrank and Chris Calvelli. First session will focus on the lower three chakras; Muladhara (root), Svadistana (sacral), and Manipura (solar plexus), plus Anahata (heart) chakra. The second session we will concentrate on the Sahasrara (crown), Anja ( third eye) and the Vishudda (throat) then return to the heart chakra. $90/per person (both sessions included), Mind Body and Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300, Jacksonville. Info/register: 904-992-9930. Live Channeling Circle – 5pm. Also Feb 14, 21 & 28. Join Rev. Judi Weaver to discuss what is transpiring in the Universe and how the energies are affecting each of you. She will then elevate her consciousness to provide trance Channel messages and guidance from Universal Light Beings for the betterment of mankind and your own personal development. Questions are encouraged. $25. Holistic House of Holly Hill, 1126 Riverside Dr. Info: 386-503-4930 or Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com.

Spiritual Enrichment Classes – 7pm. Visit the website for class information. All classes are conducted via Zoom. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by

videoconference – 12noon. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register 904-375-9517 or Jacksonville@TM.org for connection information by email or text.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Sound Journey – 7-9pm. Begin by centering with a guided meditation then relax and enjoy the healing sound of instruments such as drums, chimes, tuning forks, and crystal singing bowls. Followed by a Drum Healing Journey. $50. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Court Ste 300, Jacksonville. RSVP: 904-992-9930. Info@mbandbcenter.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20

Kundalini Yoga – 9-10am. With Ashley Ireland. Yoga of awareness awakens your full potential through stimulating Kundalini energy, dormant at the base of your spine, causing the energy to rise up through the energy centers, or chakras, of the body. Build physical vitality and increase consciousness. Suitable for all ages and stages. $15. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville. 904-381-8686. Register: Seventh-Wonder.com/events. Meditation: The Creative Pathway – 10am-1pm. With Steve Smith, Delphi University, health and teacher facilitates this workshop, exploring three key areas to help you create a healthy and meaningful creative practice. $125. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300, Jacksonville. RSVP: 904-992-9930. Info@mbandbcenter.com. Mediumship and Messages – 9am. Rev. Judi Weaver, spiritual intuitive channel, will provide information and guidance about physical and spiritual development of Mediumship. She will then demonstrate by altering her state of consciousness into a higher vibration so that each participant can receive an inspirational guidance message from a Universal Light Being: God source, arch angel, master, spirit guide or a loved one. $25. Holistic House of Holly Hill, 1126 Riverside Dr. Info: 386-503-4930 or Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com.

Unity Church for Creative Living Sunday Ser-

vice – 10:30am. Join on Facebook Live to travel the journey of spiritual unfoldment together. Or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com. Animal Communication Workshop – 11am-1pm. Curious what your pet or animal friend is thinking? Do you talk to your animal friend and pause for a response? Does your animal friend look you in the eye with a tilted head and you wait for their mouth to open and words to fall out? $85. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300, Jacksonville. RSVP: 904-992-9930. Info@ mbandbcenter.com. Meet Your Spirit or Totem Animal Workshop – 2-4pm. Spirit Animal or Totem Animal is a phrase originally linked to Shamanism, in the belief that each and every being that resides on Mother Earth is inter-connected and inter-related, and therefore we are all one. $85. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300, Jacksonville. RSVP: 904-992-9930. Info@mbandbcenter.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Lightworkers and Awakening – 2pm. Via Zoom with Rev. Judi Weaver. The increase of energies and vibrational shifts are affecting everyone and there is a mass awakening happening to sensitive individuals. This is often described as a yearning to know; to understand; feeling physical changes; vivid dreaming; knowing things that you do not know how; seeing things beyond your physical

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24

Heart Health – 6:30pm. With Dr. Kristy Harvell. Often we realize how fragile our heart is emotionally. But are you aware of how fragile it is physically? We will educate you on the secrets to heart health, and debunk the myths of fats and cholesterol. Health by Design, 2002 Southside Service Rd, Jacksonville. 904-363-3374. HealthbyDesignFL.com Spiritual Enrichment Classes – 7pm. Visit the website for class information. All classes are conducted via Zoom. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26

Divine Guidance and Healing Messages – Feb 26-27. 10am-4pm. Spiritual Trance Channel, and international professional Certified Crystal Light Healer Rev. Judi Weaver will provide divine guidance and healing messages. Therapeutic Solutions of Amelia, 905 S 8th St, Fernandina Bch. Schedule: 904-310-6951.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27

Reiki II Class – 10am-5pm. With Brian Dean. Healing self and others. 6 CEUS for Florida massage therapists. Space is limited. $150 with $75 deposit required. Hosted by Caring Palms Healing Arts. Register: 904-246-2206 or Brian@caringpalms.com. Info: CaringPalms.com. Full Moon Meditation and Sound Healing – 6:30pm. Begins with a centering guided meditation, then relax and enjoy the healing sound of instruments such as drums, chimes, tuning forks, and crystal singing bowls. Sound healing sessions create deep relaxation by using vibrations that calm your mind and body and give you mental clarity. $25. Mind Body & Beyond Center, 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300, Jacksonville. RSVP: 904-992-9930. Info@ mbandbcenter.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Unity Church for Creative Living Sunday Ser-

vice – 10:30am. Join on Facebook Live to travel the journey of spiritual unfoldment together. Or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com. Heart 4 Souls Spiritual Guidance – 2pm. A virtual monthly event on the 4th Sunday. Guests receive an overall group message from the heart, followed by a live channeling session where Universal Light Beings provide guidance and answer questions for spiritual wisdom and support you with the expansion of your soul. Universal Light Beings may be messages from the God Source, Great Spirit, Arch Angels, Masters, Spirit Guides, Lemurian’s, etc. Free on Facebook Live virtual gathering on Heart 4Souls. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev.Judi.Weaver@ gmail.com or SpiritualServices.online. Indian Cooking Class – 4-6pm. Join spa owner Falli Shah and her husband Sunny Shah for a vegan, Indian cooking class. This delicious event includes Pulao, Raita Sauce, Rotti, and Papadum, freshly prepared in front of you on an outdoor deck overlooking the garden. $45. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. Register: Seventh-Wonder.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 4

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by

videoconference – 6:30pm. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register 904-375-9517 or Jacksonville@TM.org for connection information by email or text.

SATURDAY, MARCH 6

Talking Stick Circle – 5pm. Join for a Native American gathering to share ancient teachings as channeled from our Elders. Follow the tradition of cleansing and synchronize our souls through the sacred practice of drumming. Bring your instruments, family, friends; children welcome. Handmade gift exchange (bring two). Andrew Jackson Davis Bld, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com. Beaches WellFest – 8:30am-2pm. 5K beach run, health resources and healthy lifestyle vendors. Johansen Park, Atlantic Bch.

SUNDAY, MARCH 7

Live Channeling Circle – 5pm. Also Mar 14. Join Rev. Judi Weaver to discuss what is transpiring in the Universe and how the energies are affecting Live Channeling Circle – 5pm. Also Feb 28. Join Rev. Judi Weaver to discuss what is transpiring in the Universe and how the energies are affecting each of you. She will then elevate her consciousness to provide trance Channel messages and guidance from Universal Light Beings for the betterment of mankind and your own personal development. each of you. She will then elevate her consciousness to provide trance Channel messages and guidance from Universal Light Beings for the betterment of mankind and your own personal development. Questions are encouraged. $25. Holistic House of Holly Hill, 1126 Riverside Dr. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com. Questions are encouraged. $25. Holistic House of Holly Hill, 1126 Riverside Dr. Info: 386-503-4930. SATURDAY, MARCH 20 Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com. Operation New Uniform Health Workshop – Drum Circle – 6-8pm. With Julianne Battaglia Get your groove on and drum to the energy of the moon! Share in the joy of expressing yourself through music and dance. Receive instructions on different drumming styles to practice. There 11am-1pm. This event is for Military active duty, veterans and their families. Join for lunch and learn from Dr. Kristy the importance of advocating for your health. More than nine health vendors will talk about solutions and alternatives, plus prizes will be time for group jam at the end. Bring your and drawings. Health by Design, 2002 Southside own percussion instrument recommended; extra Service Rd, Jacksonville. 904-363-3374. Health instruments available share. $15. This event is ByDesignFL.com. in partnership with the Cosmic Church of Truth. Register: Seventh-Wonder.com/events/ PLANS CHANGE • CALL AHEAD

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Ads@NAJax.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE

A WAY OF LIFE ACUPUNCTURE

4337 Pablo Oaks Ct, Bldg 200, Jacksonville • 904-373-8415 AWayOfLifeAcupuncture.com Dr Christine Yastrzemski, NCCAOM, AP AP2255 Dr Sarah Thomas, DACM, AP AP4183 NCCAOM Board Certified Acupuncture Physician specializing in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. We offer the highest quality of care while customizing treatments that best suit your needs. See ad, page 6.

FOOT SPA

BE PAMPERED FOOT SPA

4130 Salisbury Rd #1020, Jacksonville Tuesdays in St. Augustine By appt: 904-768-0022 bepamperedfoot.com Foot detox, therapeutic pedicure, deep foot massage, Medi-pedicure, great for seniors, nail whitening and toenail restoration. Kathy Griggs, Certified Master Pedicurist FV0572994.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

JACKSONVILLE HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

Dr Jon Repole, DC, CFMP 9957 Moorings Dr, Ste 403 Jacksonville (Mandarin) 904-268-6568 • DrRepole.com Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner. Find the cause of your health challenge. Our office will create a doctor supervised custom-tailored health program that will include the following: meal planning, supplemental prescriptions, detoxification guidance, food/lifestyle coaching, exercise prescriptions, accountability, on-line patient portal, and more. We utilize the most advanced diagnostics testing available to aid both our diagnoses and treatment. See ad, page 18. GROCERY

NATIVE SUN

1585 3rd St North, Jacksonville Beach 904-853-5497 NativeSunJax.com

Jax Beach’s community organic grocer, local food and essential items. Order online for curbside p/u.

HEALING CENTER

MIND BODY & BEYOND CENTER

14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300 Jacksonville • 904-992-9930 MindBodyAndBeyondCenter.com Comprehensive. Integrative. Transformative. Strategies for developing awareness and understanding. Harmonize the mind and the body and spirit will follow. Find greater intuitive and creative ability, have a fuller expression of love, enhance your sense of self-worth and bring spiritual qualities into your life. #MM35640 See ad, page 23.

HERBS LAURENCE LAYNE, LMT, HERBALIST

Healing Waters Clinic & Herb Shop 26 Clark St, St. Augustine 904-826-1965 • HealingWatersClinic.com MA0010746 MM005595 A holistic center specializing in pain relief and chronic health issues. Certified in neuromuscular and deep tissue bodywork, myofascial therapy, craniosacral balancing, east-west herbalism. Offering attunement energy healing since 1978. See ad, page 29.

HOLISTIC WELLNESS SPA SEVENTH WONDER HOLISTIC SPA

4236 St John’s Ave, Jacksonville 904-381-8686 • Seventh-Wonder.com A true sanctuary away from the stresses of the world since 2002. Offering: Ayurveda consultation and services, natural alternatives to facelift, massages, facials, eyebrow threading/tinting, reiki, pranic healing, ear coning, sauna, and a Himalayan salt room.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FIRST COAST INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Megan Weigel, DNP 14215 Spartina Ct, Jacksonville 904-543-3510 FirstCoastIntegrativeMedicine.com A holistic, heart-centered and evidence-based approach to care for people living with neurological conditions and symptoms. Dr Weigel has nearly 20 years experience in neurology and neurological care. See ad, page 6.

MASSAGE

A WAY OF LIFE ACUPUNCTURE

4337 Pablo Oaks Ct, Bldg 200, Jacksonville • 904-373-8415 AWayOfLifeAcupuncture.com Licensed professional massage therapists provide Swedish, deep tissue, therapeutic, hot stone and other therapies. Massage can play a huge part in your overall health. MM37388. See ad, page 6.

CARING PALMS MASSAGE AND REIKI

Brian Dean, LMT MM40693, MA36835 476 Osceola Ave, Jacksonville Beach 904-246-2206 • CaringPalms.com Professional massage and energy work. Many styles of massage, Reiki, meditation, mediumship, massage & Reiki classes. Continuing education for Florida LMTs. See ad, page 29.

MEDITATION TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION CENTERS

• Karen & Herb Bandy, Certified Teachers 904-375-9517 • Jacksonville@TM.org • Regine de Toledo & Richard Pinto, Certified Teachers 904-826-3838 • StAugustine@TM.org The TM technique is an effortless, non-religious, evidence-based practice for eliminating stress, increasing well-being and expanding consciousness. Certified Teachers give individual instruction and ongoing support. See ad, page 17.

CERTIFIED MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTORS

10695 Beach Blvd • 904-299-5300 920 Blanding Blvd, Ste 4 • 904-420-0044 2085 A1A S, St Augustine • 904-299-7373 CMMDR.com

Patients with a qualifying medical condition can become a Florida medical marijuana patient in two easy steps and gain access to Florida Medical Marijuana Dispensary discounts, deals and special savings. License number OS8874. See ad, page 28.

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING

MIND BODY & BEYOND CENTER

Melissa Fenton, PhD, LMHC 14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300 Jacksonville • 904-992-9930 MindBodyAndBeyondCenter.com Dr. Fenton, licensed psychotherapist, offers traditional individual and family therapy to adults. Individual and couples, EMDR/EFT, mindfulness, meditation, loss/trauma, stress management, women’s health, sexuality. Tele-health sessions available. See ad, page 23.

METAPHYSICAL STORE

SPIRITUAL UPLIFTS

2186 Park Ave, Ste 102, Orange Park 904-292-4555 SpiritualUplifts.com

Metaphysical services, including life coaching, spiritual readings, energy work, crystal healings, biomat, aura photography, chakra and astrology reports and more. World-renowned speakers and demonstrations to further your spiritual journey. See ad, page 17.

NUTRITION/KINESIOLOGY HEALTH BY DESIGN

Dr Kristy A Harvell 2002 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville 904-363-3374 • HealthByDesignFL.com Nutrition Response Testing™ gets to the underlying cause of your condition by testing for food sensitivities, heavy metals, and chemical toxins. A Clinical Nutrition Program will be designed for your individual needs. See ad, page 32. Heart 4 Souls Inc, Ormond Beach Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com 386-503-4930 • Heart4Souls.com Channeled spirit messages, crystal light healer, divine personal guidance, shamanic practitioner, spiritual counseling, guided meditations, home/property blessings, vision quest journeys. For individuals or groups—in person, virtual/on-line, phone or

energy distance.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS

UNITY CHURCH FOR CREATIVE LIVING IN ST JOHNS

2777 Race Track Rd, St Johns 904-287-1505 • UnityInJax.com Unity offers positive, practical teachings that support spiritual evolution and abundant living. They take an extremely positive approach to life, emphasizing our Oneness in God and the goodness in people and all life. Join to travel the journey of spiritual unfoldment together. See ad, page 5. Mandarin | Fleming Island | Southside | Avondale | World Golf Village | San Pablo | Bayard | Crossroads | Oakleaf Yoga-Den.com

Founded in 2002, all Yoga Den teachers are graduates of YogaDen’s nationally accredited 200hour TT Program. Members may use their key tags at all locations with Passport Membership. Hundreds of weekly classes. Our philosophy is No Judgement, and all levels will feel welcome. See ad, page 8.

MIND BODY & BEYOND CENTER

14215 Spartina Ct, Ste 300 Jacksonville • 904-992-9930 MindBodyandBeyondCenter.com Private or semi-private, tailored to your needs. Chair, Restorative, Yin n Yoga Nidra, Breathwork, Meditation, Sound Healing, Chakra Opening, Breathwork and or a combination. Call to schedule your individual or small group class. See ad, page 23.

Coming Next Month

MARCH Plant Medicine for Mental Health

Plus: Organic Farming