June 2023 Natural Awakenings Magazine Jacksonville - St. Augustine Florida

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HEALTHY LIVING | HEALTHY PLANET FREE MEN’S HEALTH Climate Savvy Investing Eating for Metabolic Health Sustainable Summer Barbecues John Repole, DC Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center JACKSONVILLE | ST. AUGUSTINE EDITION JUNE 2023

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2 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com CONTENTS Natural Awakenings Jacksonville / St. Augustine | June 2023 Issue DEPARTMENTS 4 EVENT BRIEFS | 6 HEALTH BRIEFS 7 GLOBAL BRIEFS | 8 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT 14 WISE WORDS | 16 PRACTITIONER SPOTLIGHT 18 CONSCIOUS EATING | 20 FIT BODY 22 HEALING WAYS | 24 HEALTHY KIDS 26 GREEN LIVING | 28 INSPIRATION 29 CALENDARS | 31 RESOURCE GUIDE
20 14 10 8 FARM-FRESH HERB PRODUCTS to Beat the Heat 10 WHAT EVERY MAN WANTS Sexual Vitality at Every Age 14 DR. MARK HYMAN on Living Healthy to 100 and Beyond 16 JOHN REPOLE, DC of Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center 18 CONVERTING FOOD TO ENERGY Learning How Metabolism Works 20 STRAIGHTEN UP AND FEEL RIGHT Tips for Good Posture and a Healthy Spine 22 KEEPING EYES SHARP A Holistic Approach to Vision Health 24 CONSCIOUS FATHERHOOD Building a Better Family 26 SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS INVESTING How to Choose Sustainable Stocks and Mutual Funds 28 BAREFOOT BLESSINGS Basking in the Soul of Summer

Publisher Rebecca Young

Publisher@NAJax.com

Writer Erin Floresca

Editor Sara Gurgen

Design & Production Josh Halay Suzzanne M. Siegel

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© 2023 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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A Fond Farewell

Hello and welcome to our June edition, dedicated to men’s health. I have a big announcement to share with you. After almost seven years of publishing for Natural Awakenings , I’ve decided it’s time to make a shift in my professional life. At the same time, a publishing team with deep roots in the Natural Awakenings family has expressed interest in publishing this Jacksonville-St. Augustine edition. We’re working together during June to facilitate a smooth transition for this magazine that we all love. John and Trina Voell launched their first Natural Awakenings magazine in Ann Arbor, Michigan, 17 years ago and have since grown into four Michigan territories. They’re excited to assimilate into the Florida market and will be a great addition to the community. From July forward, I will enjoy reading each edition, minus the excitement of putting the magazine together each month. The healthy living professionals I’ve met through publishing this magazine will continue to serve as my wellness team long into the future. I will always treasure my time as your publisher. With that, I welcome John and Trina Voell to the helm.

A Passion-Fueled Mission Brought Us Here

As our dear friend Rebecca moves onto her next chapter and bids you farewell, we’re here to say hello. We are John and Trina Voell—Natural Awakenings publishers with 17 years under our belts—now super excited to broaden our reach with Natural Awakenings in Jacksonville-St. Augustine! Seventeen years ago this month, in fact, we published our first issue of Natural Awakenings magazine, in June 2006 with the Greater Ann Arbor edition hitting stands for the first time. In 2019, we assumed ownership of the Detroit, Wayne County edition, followed by the launch of Traverse City in 2021 and most recently, our Greater Lansing edition in January of this year. The excitement and momentum behind all of this progress remains quite a ride!

Since the beginning, it’s been a passion-fueled mission with endless personal growth opportunities for both of us month after month. We’ve both learned so much and been blessed along the way by the connections we’ve made with many local experts gifted with insights on natural health, spirituality, and sustainability. As we celebrate our anniversary this month, close to our heart is John’s late father—Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. visionary, co-founder, and vice president John Voell, “J2”. Our deep love and appreciation endure, for his belief in this venture and in us. We feel his inspiring presence in our lives even to this day.

We’d especially like to thank you, beloved reader, for picking up Natural Awakenings each month and joining other kindred spirits in our collective journey of relishing an awakened life and creating the kind of world we know is possible. One of the splendors of Natural Awakenings’ readership is that you continue to lead our community toward reclaiming more natural, healthy, balanced and sustainable lifestyles. Each of us plays a valuable role as we encourage others to join in, and together we stand for positive change.

We look forward to being a part of this in northeast Florida. This is a dream come true for us to be walking the sandy beaches and experiencing warm winters without the ice and snow. It sounds amazing!

If time is a river, then we are certainly enjoying the flow as we celebrate bringing you this wonderful community resource. We truly appreciate being a part of an organization that shines light on new possibilities for important issues—elevating humanity, ourselves, and our dear Mother Earth.

Onward to the exhilarating journey!

3 June 2023 FROM THE PUBLISHER HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET
JACKSONVILLE/ST. AUGUSTINE EDITION
Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink. Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines
Rebecca Young with Trina and John Voell, Publishers

Upcoming Yoga Elements Retreats

Yoga Elements Retreats—a women-owned retreat company based in Flagler County with yoga, camping and adventure retreats reaching all of north and central Florida, plus annual international retreats—has announced their upcoming retreats: Welcome Summer, from June 2 through 4, in Palm Coast, Florida; Puerto Rico, from July 13 through 16, in Ciales, Puerto Rico; Farm to Heart, from November 3 through 5, in Fort White, Florida; and Resilience Reset: Training and Retreat, from October 20 through 22, December 1 through 3 and February 23 through 25, in Apopka, Florida.

“At Yoga Elements, it is our passion to help guests disconnect from the stresses of everyday life through the connection that can only be found in nature,” says co-owner Whitney Andrews. “Our guests arrive on Friday evenings and spend two star-filled nights in luxury teepees. During the days of your all-inclusive retreat, you can expect yoga, meditation, forest bathing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), hiking and more!”

Both Whitney and co-owner Maggie Merkiel are certified through the Yoga Alliance as RYT-200 instructors, and also certified by SUP Yoga Center as SUP yoga instructors. Whitney and Maggie have held space for more than 65 guests, who have each left feeling a little lighter and a little more grounded than when they first arrived.

“It’s our dharma to hold this space for you—space to let go, to heal, to create new friendships,” shares Maggie. “Some of our retreats even offer continuing education credits for yoga teachers and licensed medical health providers!”

For more information, call Whitney Andrews at 386-453-3077 or Maggie Merkiel at 386-262-9174 or visit YogaElementsRetreats.com. See ad on page 21.

Anniversary Party at Spiritual Uplifts’ New Location

Spiritual Uplifts Metaphysical Store is throwing an anniversary party at their new location—2039 Mound Street, in Orange Park—from 11:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. on June 24. The first 40 people will receive Tansy with Dust, and attendees will also receive a gift if they spend more than $40. There will be free classes and people can explore Spiritual Uplifts’ different spiritual divinations tables, such as crafts, games, spiritual education and more.

Other June events at Spiritual Uplifts include a Jewelry Show from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 10 and 11 and a Psychic Mediumship Class with owner Lynn Pritchard on June 17, from 2 to 5 p.m.

“Sparkle and shine with our rare crystal gem jewelry,” says Pritchard regarding the jewelry show. “The event room will be filled with sterling silver jewelry and gems worldwide. Gemstones, vintage-inspired, sterling silver, symbols and more will be there. Get our 20 percent-off discount for jewelry that is $20 or more.”

The Psychic Mediumship Class—perfect for beginners or those just trying to improve their skills—is part of a series of five classes, each designed to push participants further each time. Participants will learn to grow into their gifts and find their niche. The cost is $45 per class or $200 for the series.

Location: 2039 Mound St., in Orange Park. To learn more about these events, call 904-292-4555 or visit SpiritualUplifts.com See ad on page 5.

June CEC Classes at JHWC

Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center (JHWC) is hosting the following continuing education credit classes: Introductory Class to Acupressure, June 29 through 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.—12 credits; Reflexology Class, June 30, from 6 to 9 p.m.—six credits; and Ethical Wisdom Class, June 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.—two credits.

Introductory Class to Acupressure is designed to provide a broad overview of the scope and practice of Soul Lightening Acupressure. Attendees will learn simple techniques for balancing and harmonizing body, mind and spirit. Those attending the Reflexology Class will discover healing and relaxation through the feet and hands. Art of Holistic Massage instructor Alvina Quatrano will demonstrate the healing and transformational power of reflexology. Anyone can enjoy the popular Ethical Wisdom Class on human interaction. Quatrano will be sharing the power behind learning ancient wisdom of our ancestors. Learn how to maintain and uphold an ethical fundamental practice for any professional business in the field of healing arts.

Cost: $295 for acupressure class; $100 for reflexology class; $25 for ethical class. A manual is included in each of these classes and seating is limited for these prepaid events. Location: 9957 Moorings Dr., Ste. 403, Jacksonville. For more information or to prepay, call 904-268-6568 or email Amandajhwc@yahoo.com. For more information about JHWC, call the same number or visit DrRepole.com. See ad on page 17.

4 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com EVENT BRIEFS

Neil Diamond Legacy Concert

The Sweet Caroline Tour—a Neil Diamond concert celebration starring the number one Diamond performer in the world, Jay White—will make a stop at the Thrasher-Horne Center, in Orange Park, on August 13, starting at 6 p.m.

It is without question the most authentic Diamond concert experience on the planet. Conceived in response to Diamond’s retirement from the concert stage and the huge demand from audiences worldwide to enjoy the music of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icon in a live music setting, White and the dynamic Sweet Caroline Tour Band pay homage to Diamond by performing the hits and beloved gems you know and love with the same energy and artistry Diamond delivered over his incredible 50-year career.

Over three decades, White has performed more than 10,000 concerts around the world, reflecting the stage persona of an American music legend. Each expression of every Diamond song performed by White evokes the power and the passion of a live Diamond performance.

White is grateful that his years of dedication and devotion has convinced tens of thousands of Diamond fans that he is the closest thing to the real deal. And he’s also humbled to have been acknowledged and embraced by Diamond, Diamond’s family and his band for performing the Brooklyn-born singer/songwriter’s music live in concert in the most respectful, convincing way possible.

“Neil’s kindness and acceptance has always been greatly appreciated, and I’m honored to have appeared with him on his Stages box set DVD,” shares White. “Now, more than ever, I will continue to pay homage through each and every performance to the man who has meant so much to so many for so long—especially me.”

Cost: Ticket prices range from $29 to $69. Location: Thrasher-Horne Center, 283 College Dr., in Orange Park. For more information, including upcoming shows, or to purchase tickets, call 904-276-6815 or visit thcenter.org. See ad on page 7.

CKO Kickboxing Ponte Vedra Now Open

CKO Kickboxing Ponte Vedra opens June 1, and they are inviting those in the community to come burn calories in a family-oriented atmosphere and take advantage of their special offer: Attend the first three classes for free.

Attendees can burn up to 1,200 calories in a one-hour session, plus they will feel a sense of community and feel empowered. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of trainers with a wide variety of various health/physical backgrounds.

Location: 10440 U.S. Hwy. 1 N., Units 115-116, in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904-429-7280 or visit ckoKickboxing.com/ fl-st-augustine-ponte-vedra. See ad on page 21.

5 June 2023 Serving your health and travel goals today! TM D&DHealth Wellness & Travel Wellness Coach! Let us be your Find us on Social Media! Text or call anytime! 904.887.2229 Get on the path to Wellness & Longevity! Find out how you can Save! We are Proud of our Military! learn more or book a free consultation at: ddwellnessjax.com Wellness Retreats • Health & Fitness Joy • Spirituality • Home Environment Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Certified Wellness Travel Advisor Dalia Philbeck
2039 Mound St • Orange Park • FL 32073 New Location! 904.292.4555

Low Vitamin D Linked to Risk of Death

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine determined that vitamin D deficiency increases mortality risk. The findings were based on a survey of the vitamin D levels and genetic data of more than 300,000 people aged 37 to 73 that participated in the UK Biobank, a large-scale cohort study that began in 2006. Almost 19,000 deaths from all causes, as well as from specific causes such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory illnesses, were recorded through 2020.

Researchers discovered that the risk of death decreased steeply with increasing concentrations of vitamin D, until reaching 50 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The odds of death from all causes were estimated to increase by 25 percent for participants with vitamin D levels of 25 nmol/L, compared to those with 50 nmol/L.

Herbs and Spices Promote Gut Health

A 2022 research study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that herbs and spices may be unsung heroes in the quest for gut health. The three-period, randomized, controlled-feeding study involved 54 obese or overweight adults aged 30 to 75 with at least one other risk factor for cardiovascular disease, such as elevated glucose or triglycerides.

Participants consumed the same average American diet for four weeks, along with one of three daily doses of spices and herbs—0.5 grams, 3.3 grams or 6.6 grams—which included cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme. Fecal samples were collected at the start of the study and the end of each diet period.

Researchers determined that consuming 3.3 or 6.6 grams of herbs and spices per day increased levels of the Ruminococcaceae bacteria, a major player in the maintenance of gut health. The highest levels of this beneficial bacteria were observed among those that consumed the highest levels of herbs and spices. The scientists recommend further investigation to identify the metabolic implications of their findings.

Daily Intense Activity Prolongs Life

A new study in the journal Nature Medicine suggests that short bursts of intense movement are associated with a lower risk of premature death. The UK researchers analyzed data from about 25,000 non-exercisers with an average age of 62 that wore movement tracking devices on their wrists.

Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) refers to short, sporadic bursts of exertion done as part of daily living, such as walking very fast while commuting to work or climbing stairs. The scientists found that compared to participants that engaged in no VILPA, those that did just one to two minutes of VILPA three to four times daily exhibited a 38 to 40 percent lower risk of death over the course of seven years. They also noted that just a few minutes of VILPA throughout the day reduced cardiovascular disease-related mortality by up to 49 percent.

Similar results were obtained when they analyzed vigorous physical activity in roughly 62,000 participants that exercised regularly. VILPA in non-exercisers appears to elicit similar effects to vigorous physical activity in exercisers, suggesting that VILPA may be a suitable physical activity target, especially in people not able or willing to exercise on a regular basis.

6 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com HEALTH BRIEFS
Ruslan Huzau/ShutterStock.com Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com
Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Open Letter to Pause AI Experiments

lazaalaexa/ShutterStock.com

A group of leading technology executives, researchers, academics and others from around the world have signed an open letter prepared by the Future of Life Institute calling for a six-month pause on large, human-competitive artificial intelligence (AI) experiments. As of March 31, more than 1,800 CEOs and 1,500 professors had signed the letter.

“AI labs are locked in an out-of-control race to develop and deploy ever more powerful digital minds that no one—not even their creators—can understand, predict or reliably control,” the letter contends. The authors are concerned that “AI systems are now becoming human-competitive at general tasks.”

While AI systems grow more powerful, there is no natural law or barrier to technical progress. The letter’s authors and signers are asking all AI labs to pause the training of powerful AI systems so that safety protocols can be implemented to ensure the effects of these systems will be positive and the risks manageable. According to the letter, “If such a pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”

Individuals can view and sign the letter at Tinyurl.com/AImoratorium.

Artificial Intelligence That Can

With the Mind’s Eye

See

A team of researchers from the National University of Singapore, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Stanford University are using artificial intelligence (AI) to decode human brain scans and determine what a person is picturing in their mind. Participants underwent brain scans using a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) machine while looking at more than 1,000 pictures, such as a red firetruck, a gray building and a giraffe eating leaves. This fMRI data was processed by an AI model for roughly 20 hours per patient, as it trained to associate certain brain patterns with the different images.

To test the learning capabilities of the AI model, the subjects were then shown new images while undergoing fMRI. Upon reviewing the brain waves, the AI system generated a shorthand description of each person’s brain state and sketched its best-guess facsimile of the image the participant saw The AI-generated image matched the attributes (color, shape and other details) and semantic meaning of the original image approximately 84 percent of the time. Researchers believe that in a decade the technology could be used on anyone, anywhere.

7 June 2023 GLOBAL BRIEFS
photo courtesy of Wikipedia

Animals Soul too! Are

Farm-Fresh Herb Products to Beat the Heat

Monday | June 7th | 6:30-7:30 PM

Ponte Vedra Beach Library

www.eck-florida.org | (904) 725-7760

Clinical Traditions Herb Co.—a small herb farm and apothecary located in and serving Jacksonville—grows organic herbs and then crafts them into herbal teas, tonics and tinctures, including a Soothing Summertime Tea and a Move Easy Elixir, which are sure to help you chill out as the heat of summer approaches. These products— along with other healing offerings—are available online as well as at the mobile apothecary at the Jacksonville-based Riverside Arts Market on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Owner Kaki (Katherine) Bryan, a certified clinical herbalist, operates under the principle that nature knows what our bodies need. Kaki lives in alignment with the seasons, growing and harvesting herbs to energetically meet the physical and emotional needs each season presents.

The herbs that prosper in the intense summer sun are here to share their resilience to heat with us. These plants are featured in the Soothing Summertime Tea blend and the Move Easy Elixir (a concentrated herbal extract). The phytonutrients present in these blends help to clear heat and stagnation from the body to create balance, Kaki explains.

“The Soothing Summertime Tea is a tart and tangy herbal tea made for that ‘type A’ personality, or one with a strong pitta dosha, according to Ayurveda—aka a lot of internal heat and fire,” says Kaki. “Drinking tea increases hydration, needed on hot days, and it also provides several electrolytes that aid with hydration.” The ingredients are roselle, lemongrass, lemon balm, cranberry hibiscus and blue butterfly pea flowers. The ingredients are rich in antioxidants and are organically and regeneratively grown in Jacksonville.

“This fruity tea is a tropical delight, inspired by agua de Jamaica, but is a deep purple color when brewed in your cup,” notes Kaki. “It has tons of plant-healing powers, aka antioxidants, and is super hydrating. Traditionally, many of these herbs are used to help regulate blood pressure and reduce a fever. Roselle hibiscus is known for its calming and soothing effects on the body. During hot summer months, when temperatures can be uncomfortably high, consuming roselle hibiscus tea or incorporating it into refreshing beverages can help relax the body and reduce the feeling of heat-related stress and restlessness.”

The Move Easy Elixir is a strong blend of anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing herbs to help you “move easy”. “This potent remedy will help you chill out while also helping to heal bodily aches and pains,” observes Kaki. “Ingredients include turmeric and Solomon’s seal roots, accompanied by skull-

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cap and ginger extracted in cane alcohol and organic raw apple cider vinegar with a touch of black cherry juice.” The ingredients are organically grown, sustainably hand harvested and processed with love in Jacksonville.

The elixir comes in a 1- or 2-ounce bottle with a dropper top lid for ease of consumption. You can put the elixir straight in your mouth or dilute in a cup of water, tea or juice. “This blend is strong tasting and has strong effects, so it’s best to dilute and start with one dropper full and add more drops as needed and tolerated,” Kaki explains. “The effects of ‘Move Easy’ are mental and physical tension relief while also moistening and restoring joints and helping fascia tightness too—perfect for helping you enjoy the outside fun that the summer season offers.”

In addition to growing herbs and crafting them into wellness products, Kaki also offers holistic health consultations, workshops and other events. Shares Kaki: “If you have a nagging symptom or a feeling that something just isn’t right; if your life force isn’t satisfactory for the life you want to live and you would like to heal naturally using a holistic (multifaceted) approach, I offer clinical consultations to get to the root issues and provide strategies for you to pull up those strangling roots.”

For more information, email ClinicalTraditions@gmail.com or visit ClinicalTraditions. com. See ad on page 13.

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WHAT EVERY MAN WANTS SEXUAL VITALITY AT

AGE

10 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com
Allistair F/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com

For men, sexual health is a key, but often overlooked, component of overall wellness. A man in optimal physical shape is able to fully enjoy and participate in sexual activity with an active libido and the ability to sustain an erection. Poor sexual health can lead to depression, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and other troublesome symptoms and conditions.

Fortunately, male sexual function is better understood medically than ever before, and it is more common for men to talk with their doctors and other professionals about topics that seemed taboo not that long ago. New technology is making it easier to diagnose and treat common problems, and it is widely understood that physical, neurological, hormonal, interpersonal and mental factors all play into sexual wellness. By taking a proactive and holistic approach to their overall wellness, men can enjoy a robust sex drive and performance long into their later years.

MAINTAINING LIBIDO AND ENERGY

Eric Plasker, a licensed chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle, attests that sexual health does not have to decline with age, and men can proactively counter that myth with mindful lifestyle choices. “If you’re aging in a healthy manner, your libido does not have to decline. By taking part in activities you find fulfilling and nurturing your mind, body and spirit, your sexual energy can stay naturally high,” Plasker explains.

He recommends that people take an energy inventory to assess which activities and lifestyle choices are serving them. “Make a list of all the things you do that help you gain energy and those that drain your energy. This includes the food you eat, hobbies, habits, even people you spend time with. Then see how you can turn the drainers into gainers. For example, if driving in traffic makes you angry, put on relaxing music and do deep breathing exercises to shift yourself into a more positive state. These shifts will make you more energetic, stronger, more passionate and present with your partners, and you’ll have more energy to be sexual and loving,” he says.

Sexual health depends on a healthy nervous system, and maintaining a balanced flow of hormones and neurotransmitters is essential for proper neurological function. According to Plasker, disease, inactivity and inflammation—especially in the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints—can cause a communication breakdown.

“Blockages in the nervous system flow can cause disruption to the sexual organs and lead to a compromised libido,” he explains. “Chiropractic adjustments, combined with regular exercise, will help raise cortisol, reduce stress and open up these pathways in the body. I recommend that patients find an activity they enjoy, such as swimming or tennis, so it becomes an enjoyable part of their routine,” Plasker says.

OPTIMIZING HORMONES

According to Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist in Sarasota, Florida, strong sexual health and desire is a window to overall health. He helps patients reach their sexual potential with a

combination of science-based medicine and holistic practices. “The body is one connected system, and great sexual function is an indication that your body is optimized,” he advises.

While testosterone is widely known to affect sex drive, Gapin looks at the interplay of a variety of other hormones, too. Hormone optimization, testosterone therapy and peptide therapy, which utilizes the body’s own amino acids to increase hormone levels, are non-invasive outpatient tools that men can use to analyze and optimize their sex drive.

“The body produces over 50 hormones, which all contribute to regulating biological processes,” he explains. “Low testosterone can lead to weight gain, anxiety, erectile dysfunction and other serious health issues, including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Men want to optimize their thyroid and DHT [dihydrotestosterone] levels, both of which can lower the sex drive when compromised. Vitamin D helps regulate the gut, which controls the health of the entire body. Neurotransmitters, which help release feel-good endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine, are made in the gut and can affect depression, anxiety and other issues that lower libido.”

Gapin stresses that it is more important to think about “optimal” levels of hormones instead of “normal” ranges and encourages patients to move beyond the basic blood tests to assess their health. “Besides sex drive, testosterone also affects cardiovascular health, muscle and bone strength, fat mass, cognitive health and even longevity, so it’s important to be aware of your own levels,” he says. “Every man is different, and the range in which you feel and perform your best is what’s right for you. With medical advice constantly changing, it can be a challenge to keep track of all the recommended tests. DNA testing, epigenetic age assessments, advanced lipid panels, inflammation markers and thyroid testing can all give insight to how the body is functioning as a whole.”

11 June 2023
Allistair F/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com

TREATING PROSTATE CANCER

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It is, in fact, the most common cancer among American men. Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and in non-Hispanic Black men. About six cases in 10 are diagnosed in men that are 65 or older, and it is rare in men under 40.

Gapin asserts that preventative and proactive lifestyle choices can drastically reduce the risk. “New, non-invasive MRI treatments are making it easier to detect and diagnose cancer earlier by highlighting suspicious areas in the prostate and targeting them for biopsy,” he explains, adding that men diagnosed with prostate cancer have a number of treatment options.

“Traditionally, patients would have the prostate removed and undergo radiation. However, these procedures come with a list of disturbing side effects. A newer, FDA-approved treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive procedure that eradicates prostate cancer,” Gapin notes. “HIFU is an outpatient procedure with excellent oncologic outcomes, minimal side effects and quick recovery times.”

INCORPORATING LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS

As an osteopathic doctor and integrative medicine practitioner at the Masley Optimal Health Center, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Tarin Forbes looks at the root causes of disease and dysfunction. She, too, considers sexual health an integral component of overall wellness and gives patients the tools to achieve their desired sexual potential. “While every person is different, optimal sexual health usually means that men wake up with a morning erection, desire intercourse on a daily basis and can reach an erection without stimulation or genital contact,” she remarks.

Making mindful choices that prioritize nutrition will naturally improve sexual health. “Nourish yourself with a whole food, plant-based diet rich in nutrients, including

nitrate-rich foods and foods rich in vitamin C and folate, which boost nitric oxide, the main compound that increases blood flow,” Forbes says. “Beans, citrus fruits, beets, celery, cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens boost nitric oxide or its bioavailability to improve blood flow. While getting nutrition from food is ideal, supplements such as zinc, magnesium, vitamin D and boron can help regulate sex hormones. Avoid certain medications, including overthe-counter medicine such as NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs] like Advil, acid blockers and even mouthwash, which blocks nitric oxide.”

Forbes also recommends engaging in high-intensity exercises and weight resistance that help increase testosterone and blood flow to the penis. Reducing environmental toxins is another important step, she notes, as plastics, pesticides and other chemicals can rob men of their testosterone, which not only affects blood flow but also libido.

Forbes cautions that while erectile dysfunction drugs work in the short-term, they can produce unwanted consequences. “Viagra does work to help men achieve an erection by stimulating blood flow to the penis. However, it can cause troublesome side effects including headaches, vision problems and nasal congestion. Non-pharmaceutical alternatives can provide good results without undesirable repercussions. Low-intensity shock wave therapy, a non-invasive outpatient procedure, uses targeted sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis and can be done once or in a series of treatments. Platelet-rich plasma injections use the patient’s own plasma to stimulate new tissue growth in the penis, which can lead to larger and more frequent erections,” she explains.

Forbes says that by having an open dialogue with their medical professionals and exploring holistic treatments, men at any age can feel sexier and more energetic than ever. “Talk about your concerns with your doctor, who may offer referrals to other specialists until the issue is solved. A physical therapist can teach men to strengthen their pelvic floor with Kegels and other exercises. Sexual therapists help men work through mental and psychological issues, which can be as debilitating as physical ones. A psychologist can offer tools for managing depression and anxiety, both of which can contribute to sexual dysfunction, including low libido and performance anxiety,” she says, noting that if a man does not feel comfortable talking with their doctor, it may be time to find a new one.

Many factors contribute to sexual health, and every man’s needs and desires are different. By addressing physical, hormonal, neurological and mental wellness with a combination of conventional and holistic treatments, men can experience sexual performance and enjoyment at any age. “There’s more awareness than ever before about sexual health, and men don’t have to compromise this integral part of their overall wellness,” says Forbes.

12 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com
Allistair F/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com.
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Dr. Mark Hyman

ON LIVING HEALTHY TO 100 AND BEYOND

Mark Hyman is a practicing family physician and an internationally recognized leader, bestselling author, speaker, educator and advocate in the field of functional medicine. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, founder and senior advisor for the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine and board president for clinical affairs for The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is also the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign, dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy change, and hosts The Doctor’s Farmacy, a podcast with more than 150 million downloads. Hyman is a regular contributor to CBS This Morning, Today, Good Morning America, The View, Fox and CNN. His latest book, Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life, champions the latest science on healthy aging.

14 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com WISE WORDS
Photo by Masha Maltsava

How is the emerging science on longevity changing the way we view aging?

Many things we’ve come to accept as a normal part of getting older are not. Decrepitude, frailty, disease, diabetes, cancers, dementia—these are optional. We can’t change chronological aging, but we can slow and reverse biological aging by influencing the hallmarks of aging, which are these underlying processes that go awry as we get older.

What are the hallmarks of aging?

In my book I wrote about 10 hallmarks of aging, which are all part of one ecosystem of problems. They’re not separate; they influence each other; and they’re dynamic. It’s things like inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, zombie cells, shortened telomeres, microbiome changes and epigenetic changes, which are changes in how our genes are expressed. They’re all important, but the most important hallmark of aging is called deregulated nutrient sensing, which means how our body interacts with food and how that influences us for good or bad. Problems with nutrient sensing affect almost all the other hallmarks and make them worse.

How can we address deregulated nutrient sensing?

We have built-in longevity pathways and over 3,000 survival genes, and we can activate this innate healing intelligence at any time. A major way to influence four of these pathways is through food. I call them longevity switches, which we need to learn how to regulate to make our health span equal our lifespan.

The first one is activated by too much sugar and starch, which drives too much insulin signaling, causing diabetes, pre-diabetes, cancer, dementia, heart disease or obesity. When insulin is over-expressed, it causes weight gain, fat storage, inflammation and lots of other problems.

The next one is mTOR [mammalian target of rapamycin], a pathway that makes new proteins and builds muscle, but gets

overstimulated because of our constant eating and snacking and eating before bed. mTOR needs to be inhibited periodically by intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating to allow autophagy to happen, which is like a recycling and repair crew that comes in at night and cleans up all the damaged proteins.

The other two pathways, sirtuins and AMPK [adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase], sense a lack of nutrients and switch on survival pathways. If we’re constantly eating sugar and starch, then AMPK and sirtuins are overstimulated, and they’re not given a break to activate these pathways.

What is the role of exercise in longevity?

If it were a pill, exercise would basically fix everything. It’s probably the most potent intervention there is, other than calorie restriction or fasting, and it works on many of the longevity pathways. The most important type of exercise is resistance training as you get older, because you need to build muscle. Without muscle, you become frail and dysfunctional.

Exercise influences our DNA stability; lengthens telomeres; preserves the genome; affects the proteins; regulates mTOR, AMPK and sirtuins; preserves mitochondrial function; prevents zombie cells; helps with stem cells; reduces inflammation, cardiovascular risk and diabetes; and it’s also really important for becoming insulin sensitive.

What is hormesis and how can it help with healthy aging?

Hormesis is the idea that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. The concept is not new. We know that exercise, for example, is a stress on the body, but it actually makes you rebound stronger. When you lift weights or you run, it’s a stress, but you’re getting thinner and stronger. There are other forms of hormesis that activate longevity pathways. Hot sauna therapy reduces your risk of cardiovascular mortality by 50 percent. Cold immersion therapy has many benefits, like increasing dopamine, activating brown fat and regulating me-

tabolism. Fasting is a kind of hormesis, and longer fasts—for a day, three days, a week—are very powerful.

What role does finding community have in this quest for longevity?

The science is pretty clear that the body has innate systems that can be regulated by our thoughts. We now understand the mechanisms by which our social relationships and connections can influence our gene expression and everything from inflammation to insulin resistance to everything else, so building connection with others and building relationships and community is very important.

What longevity strategies do you implement on a typical day?

A lot of this is just habit development and routine. This morning I worked out with my resistance bands for half an hour, took a steam shower and an ice bath, then had a longevity shake with goat whey, creatine, urolithin A and adaptogenic mushrooms. Then I took a walking meeting for an hourand-a-half outside while I was on a call. Tonight, I plan to spend time with friends. I eat pretty simply most of the time. Last night, I had lamb chops, sweet potatoes, shiitake mushrooms, artichokes (which are a great prebiotic food) and some broccoli with lemon, garlic and olive oil. I take my supplements as well. So it’s very simple, very easy.

15 June 2023
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Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings

Jon Repole DC OF JACKSONVILLE

HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Jon Repole, DC, is the clinic director at Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center (JHWC) and the founder and lead instructor for the certificate program Wellness by Design, a six-month functional and holistic medicine coaching program. He has been in private practice since 2001 and holds a Functional Medicine Practitioner degree from Functional Medicine University; a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from New York Chiropractic; a Bachelor of Science degree from Siena College; a Holistic Health Practitioner and a Nutritional Consultant degree from the Global Institute for Alternative Medicine; and has received postgraduate training and advanced certifications in plant-based nutrition, endocrinology, antiaging, longevity, life coaching and neurology. He is also the author of the soon-to-be-released book I-llness to We-llness: A Revolutionary 11-Step Program to Conquer Disease, Create Everyday Miracles, and Reconnect to Your Higher Self.

When asked why he wrote the book, Dr. Jon said: “We are in the midst of a global disease crisis that is affecting us physically (premature deaths, diabetes, cancer, heart disease) as well as our psycho-emotional-spiritual well-being (depression, existential anxiety). Many of the physical and mental illnesses that now plague us are preventable and treatable. We can do better. We must do better. I-llness to We-llness represents a paradigm shift from I to We. We can no longer be blinded by another treatise on health and wellness that leaves the heart out of the equation, focuses on egocentric concerns (I) and does not consider life’s interdependence (We). For example, when we connect with others, choose organic foods and take a stance against factory farming, we are rewarded with the hormone oxytocin; our bodies and the environment are protected from antibiotics, pesticides and herbicides; and we eliminate needless animal abuse and suffering. It’ a win-win for everyone. My philosophy short and simple: Doing good is good for you.”

Dr. Jon’s belief is that we are all addicted to a past preconditioned and limited self, and that the role of the physician is to make the patient the hero of their own story. “Our ultimate goal is to actualize our potential on all dimensions—physical, emotional, mental, relational and spiritual,” notes Dr. Jon. “Health care is not just about the maintenance of symptoms, prevention and survival. It’s about living longer (longevity), experiencing a healthier quality of life (aging), fulfillment, thriving, growth and living a life in service and contribution. It’s not just about adding years to your life; it’s about adding life to our years.”

At JHWC, Dr. Jon says they combine the best of functional, integrative and holistic medicine alongside ancient wisdom practices

for the most comprehensive and individualized treatment approach available. They concentrate on lifestyle medicine first and layer advanced treatments second. A list of treatments include: diet modification; detoxification; supplementation; exercise guidance; mental health counseling; life coaching; advanced diagnostics; stress management; hypnosis; and advanced treatments, such as EWOT (exercise with oxygen therapy), red-far-infrared light, PEMF (pulsed-electromagnetic frequency), vibroacoustic therapy, RIFE (radiofrequency therapy), chelation, ozone and more.

When not treating patients or teaching, Dr. Jon enjoys musical composition, advocating for animal rights, researching, writing, studying A Course in Miracles and spending time with his fur babies at home in Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center is located at 9957 Moorings Dr., Ste. 403, in Jacksonville. For more information, call 904-268-6568 or visit DrRepole.com. See ad on this page.

16 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com
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Converting Food to Energy

LEARNING HOW METABOLISM WORKS

M etabolism is the process by which the foods and drinks we consume are converted into energy. We may not notice the cellular mechanisms that transform fat and glucose into the oomph in our step, but when they start to wane, we definitely know something is wrong. We may feel lethargic and weak, our brains may get foggy or we may start putting on weight around the belly, with blood pressure, blood glucose and triglyceride levels on the rise. In most cases, modifying our diet is the most powerful way to regain vitality and get those biomarkers back on track.

“Metabolic imbalance occurs when the body stores fat but can’t access it or burn it as efficiently,” says Alan Christianson, a naturopathic physician and author of The Metabolism Reset Diet: Repair Your Liver, Stop Storing Fat and Lose Weight Naturally. “In one year, our bodies manage about 1 million calories in and out. We never get exactly what we need on any day, so we must be able to store and release energy in a healthy fashion. However, people get better at storing and poorer at releasing. This is a big part of gradual weight gain and accompanying fatigue.”

Christianson describes good metabolic health as having steady energy levels and maintaining a good body weight. “When there’s too little energy available and the body can’t make energy that well, I see symptoms of metabolic imbalance as mental fatigue and poor memory, less muscular endurance, less recovery from exercise, weight gain and resistance to weight loss,” he explains. “If not addressed, metabolic imbalance can develop into obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.”

According to Christianson, certain lifestyle choices can throw our metabolism out of balance, including the overconsumption of carbohydrates, processed foods and caffeine; frequent snacking and late-night meals; and poor sleep routines. Too much stress creates a hormonal cascade that promotes storing fat instead of using it.

James Forleo, a doctor of chiropractic and author of Health Is Simple, Disease Is Complicated, recommends the elimination of certain foods that wreak havoc on our metabolism: “The inflammatory agents in much of the food consumed in the Standard American Diet—high-glycemic refined carbohydrates, high-fructose corn syrup and other sugars, and hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats—are the biggest offenders of metabolic health.”

18 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com CONSCIOUS EATING Ronman/AdobeStock.com

CORRECTING LIVER FUNCTION

“The key mechanism to correct and maintain metabolic health is helping the liver to function well. Once corrected, it is not difficult to maintain metabolic health if people eat reasonably healthy,” Christianson advises. “The liver is the main site for storing the body’s fuel. It does this in the forms of glycogen and triglycerides. When things go wrong, there’s too much of one relative to the other. We need some glycogen, which comes from carbohydrates, to burn triglycerides—kind of like how you need kindling to burn a log. The problem is triglyceride buildup in the liver.”

Fixing the liver is the central focus of Christianson’s 28-day metabolism reset. “To correct a fatty liver, you need adequate protein and adequate nutrients, but a low enough amount of total carbohydrates and healthy fats,” he says. “You also need adequate levels of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that we get from the food we eat. My metabolism reset guides you in eating less refined and processed foods, and more real, nutritious food; pairing carbohydrates with protein; exercising; managing stress levels; and avoiding sugar.”

PERSONALIZED DIET PLAN AND NUTRITIONAL COACHING

Metabolic Balance, a German-based company with certified nutrition coaches around the globe, helps people optimize their health with personalized diet plans and follow-up coaching sessions. “The program was created by Dr. Wolf Funfack, a specialist in internal and nutritional medicine, whose research revealed that every human body can produce all the hormones and enzymes it needs for healthy metabolism. We need to give it the necessary nutrients with the right food, which is precisely what Metabolic Balance does,” says Sylvia Egel, CEO and director of coaching and education

“Based on an individual’s personal medical history and blood levels, we determine what substances the body lacks to produce all the enzymes and hormones necessary for their bodily functions,” she

ARUGULA SALAD WITH MANGO DRESSING

YIELD: 1 SERVING

1½ cup arugula

¼ cup olives, pitted

1 Tbsp chopped shallots

1 mango

Balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Peel the mango, remove the flesh from the core and cut into small cubes. Purée the olives with balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Purée some of the mango cubes with the dressing and set aside the remainder. Add the shallots to the dressing. Wash, clean and dry the arugula. Mix in the dressing and sprinkle the remaining mango cubes on top. Pair this salad with any protein, such as a fish filet.

explains. “The personal roadmap recommends the right combination of foods to keep the various bodily functions in balance. The foods aren’t based on their caloric content, but rather on their essential components such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and the relationship between carbohydrates, fats and proteins.”

According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, participation in the Metabolic Balance program led to long-term health improvements due to a high degree of adherence by the participants. According to the researchers, “The emphasis of any dietary program should be set on both the aspect of nutrition as well as the aspect of motivation.”

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for 20 years.

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Straighten Up and Feel Right

TIPS FOR GOOD POSTURE AND A HEALTHY SPINE

Standing up straight is not just something our parents remind us to do, it also happens to be good for our health. Posture describes the position of the body in space, but the realities of how we stand and move in dayto-day life are much more complex. Healthy postures encourage proper alignment of body structures, while unhealthy postures can lead to a host of issues, including muscle and joint pain, balance impairment and decreased mobility. Awareness of the body’s proper static and dynamic position is essential to maintaining a healthy spine.

THE SPINE AND ITS ROLE IN POSTURE

The body’s main support system is the spine, which consists of three sections. The cervical spine supports the weight of the head and connects it to the shoulders, enabling us to turn our heads from side to side as well as up and down. The thoracic spine stabilizes the rib cage, which protects the vital organs. The lumbar spine consists of thicker, more robust vertebrae, as they are the main load bearers and enable us to rotate our bodies and bend forward and to the side.

Muscle tightness or joint immobility can shift the spine out of its ideal positioning, causing postural dysfunction. A recent study published in the journal Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science estimates that 66 percent of the population is living with forward head posture (FHP), a cervical spine dysfunction that occurs when the head moves forward in front of the body. FHP can lead to headaches , migraine s and jaw pain. Thoracic kyphosis, a rounded upper back, reportedly impacts 20 to 50 percent of the population and impairs numerous functions, including digestion and breathing. The lumbar spine is at particularly high risk for joint disease as both lumbar muscle strength and pelvic mobility decrease in sedentary individuals. Low back and pelvic immobility are contributing factors for the estimated 103 million individuals worldwide that live with lumbar spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that may cause pain or numbness in the legs.

20 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com FIT BODY
N F/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com

THREE-STEP PROCESS TO TAKE CONTROL OF OUR POSTURE

STEP ONE: IDENTIFICATION

In her book Rethink Your Position, biomechanist Katy Bowman recommends that we pay attention to a few common signals the body sends out to alert us to an imbalanced weight distribution, including aches in the feet or low back and tension of the shoulders or neck. “Good alignment isn’t about any one fixed position, but a healthy range of positions,” she says. “By focusing less on memorizing postures and more on learning about load on parts of the body, you can optimize your positioning for many different activities.”

Bowman recommends a quick and easy way to self-assess if a postural imbalance is present and, if so, to identify where the imbalance begins: “The body’s joints stack in a vertical line. You can use a plumb line to indicate where your parts are supposed to be. If you take a string with a weight at the end and drop it down from your shoulder, it should line up with the hip, knee and ankle on the way down.”

STEP TWO: CORRECTION

Dr. Krista Burns, co-author of The Posture Principles and founder of the American Posture Institute, recommends a two-minute exercise routine, performed while standing against a wall, that addresses each segment of the spine. Repeat each exercise five times.

1. Neck retraction: Push the head forward away from the wall as far as possible, then pull it back so the base of the skull contacts the wall. Keep the eyes parallel to the horizon, rather than looking up toward the sky.

2. Posture angel : Stand with the back against the wall, elbows bent and tucked in close to the waist. Keeping the back of the hands against the wall, reach up as far as possible then slowly lower back to starting position. This movement, which is like making a snow angel while standing, should be felt between the shoulder blades when performed correctly.

3. Pelvic tilt : Arch the back so there is a small space between the wall and the

lower spine, then tuck in the tail, flattening the spine against the wall and closing that space. This exercise helps initiate movement into the lower joints.

STEP THREE: MAINTENANCE

The key to maintaining a healthy posture is frequent movement, which can include an hourly stretch break or a bi-hourly rangeof-motion routine to move muscles and joints throughout the day. To make postural exercises a habit, physical therapist and integrative health coach Margie Bissinger recommends pairing an exercise routine

with something that is already done multiple times a day–for example, mealtime. “People are busy, so it is hard to always dedicate that mental space to awareness of their head or back position,” she states. “When they pair it with something they’re routinely doing, it becomes a habit, and that is when the mental load of the task starts to go away.”

Cristina Parker holds a doctorate in physical therapy. She is a researcher, health content writer, educator and clinician specializing in neurologic disorders, limb-loss rehabilitation and adaptive sports techniques.

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Keeping Eyes Sharp A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO VISION HEALTH

As the windows to the world, our eyes are sensory organs that work overtime. They allow us to take in light, see what is before us and send information for the brain to process. While regular eye exams are important, preventative and proactive maintenance is key to achieving healthy vision.

Dr. Marc Grossman co-founded NaturalEyeCare.com to educate professionals and the public about complementary eye care, which can supplement traditional methods. As both a licensed optometrist and acupuncturist, he believes that the health of the eye depends on the well-being of a person’s entire body. “I treat the person behind the eye, not just the condition. When a patient comes in with glaucoma or a cataract, I look at their history and lifestyle choices to see what could be contributing to it,” he says. Proper nutrition is crucial for proper eye function. Grossman recommends what he calls a “vision diet” based on the Mediterranean diet, which cuts down on sugar and prioritizes organic, low-al-

kaline foods, leafy greens and fresh juices. “Carotenoids, found in red or yellow fruits and vegetables, are vital antioxidants for eye health. They include lutein, the yellow pigment in the macula that protects against certain eye diseases, and zeaxanthin, which helps avoid macular degeneration. These nutrients also absorb harmful blue light and are anti-inflammatory. The presence of free radicals and lack of antioxidants in the eyes is directly related to the incidence of many types of eye disease, including macular degeneration. Consuming antioxidants from food is ideal and can be enhanced with supplements such as CoQ10, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and curcumin,” Grossman explains.

“Regular aerobic activity combined with meditation or another mindfulness practice is ideal to maintain and even improve vision,” he says. “Thirty minutes of brisk walking or another activity you enjoy four days a week can reduce the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other common eye conditions. Qigong,

22 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com HEALING WAYS
auremarAdobeStock.com

mindful breathing and yoga help the whole body reset and are low-impact ways to improve circulation.”

Proactively retraining the brain can substantially reduce vision dysfunction. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a pioneer in neuro-optometry, helps adults and children unlock their highest potential by remediating visual developmental delays that impact reading and learning, honing visual skills to elevate sports performance and reorganizing the “visual brain” after head injuries.

“We need to look at eyesight and vision as separate entities. While eyesight is the ability to simply see things like letters on a chart, vision is how your brain derives meaning from the world around us and directs the appropriate action,” explains the Maryland-based optometrist.

Through individualized vision therapy, Appelbaum’s patients learn how to train their eyes, brain and body to work together more efficiently. “Most functional vision problems are actually brain problems, and vision therapy teaches you how to use your eyes to retrain your brain. Through a series of exercises, we enhance skills like focus, depth perception, 3D awareness, eye movement control and visualization,” he explains. The first step is a thorough evaluation, and then, if indicated, personalized treatment is prescribed with doctor-supervised sessions in the office that are reinforced with exercises at home.

Appelbaum also helps professional and amateur athletes more accurately connect to their sport through vision. “From an early age we’re told to ‘keep your eye on the ball,’ but not taught how to do that,” Appelbaum asserts. “Sports vision therapy trains athletes to optimize critical components in their visual processing and reaction. We work with baseball and basketball players, gym nasts, skiers, even fencers who learn to coordinate and visualize the optimal movement in relation to their environment, equipment and teammates. With repeated exercises and self-correction, athletes learn to enhance visual reaction time, depth perception, visuospatial knowledge and hand-eye coordination."

“As a direct result of excessive screen time, we’re seeing a dra matic increase of nearsightedness in young children, as well as headaches, fatigue, eyestrain and motion sensitivity,” Appelbaum says. “I encourage patients to follow the 20/20/20 rule and take a minimum of a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at some thing at least 20 feet away. This allows both the brain and eyes to disengage from the near visual stress and relax. In general, looking at larger screens that are further away will also lessen the strain.”

will not only preserve but can also enhance our ability to see. “People should discuss visual issues and symptoms with their doctor and seek out functional vision testing, as vision could be the limiting factor in a number of conditions,” Appelbaum advises. “With mindful visual training and healthy lifestyle choices, we can maximize our vision and our life’s potential.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to JacksonWrites.com.

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Conscious Fatherhood

BUILDING A BETTER FAMILY

Some dads believe they need to work long hours so that they can purchase better things and go on fancier vacations, but research shows that, outside of escaping poverty, money doesn’t buy happiness. Even for children, it’s not about stuff or destinations; it’s about time spent together. Fortunately, there are men teaching men to embrace the fatherhood role and take action in ways that matter most.

24 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com HEALTHY KIDS
Photo courtesy of Chris Smith

“All men desire to be loved, valued, needed and respected, and to know they are leaving a mark on this world. Many men look for this fulfillment in career and hobbies, but this can be found by embracing their role as fathers,” says Ned Schaut, the Hawaii-based author of The Adventure of Fatherhood. He notes that the way fathers choose to live and perform their parental roles can affect a family for generations.

Learning what fatherhood entails isn’t easy for men that grew up without involved dads, which may leave them doubting that they have what it takes to lead their families. “There are endless resources to help us in our businesses or careers, but our society doesn’t get behind the message that strong families matter, that present, engaged fathers matter,” says Chris Smith, founder of Campfire Effect, a coaching business for entrepreneurs in Arizona. “In business, we apply principles around values, culture, leadership and growth, and then we go home and don’t apply these same principles.”

DEFINE VALUES

The lack of fatherhood guidance led Smith to develop Family Brand, an eight-week program designed to strengthen familial bonds and create an intentional family culture. Part of the process involves parents and their kids understanding who they are and defining their values. The family joins together to come up with a series of statements to hang on the wall as a reminder of their identity and purpose.

Smith Family Brand Statements

n We believe you can be who you want to be.

n Smiths can talk about anything without judgment.

n Smiths are kindhearted.

n Smiths are creators.

n Smiths do hard things.

n Smiths are healthy and active.

n Smiths love and support one another.

Schaut offers a similar lesson plan called Family Core Values, which prompts fam-

ilies to decide where and how to spend their time and money, and to identify what they do and do not want. “It helps us make decisions or have conversations about who we are and how we want to treat others,” he says.

A mission statement hangs on the wall at the home of Ben Greenfield, the Washington-based author of Boundless Parenting: Tools, Tactics and Habits of Great Parents. “It’s a collection of the family values, what the family stands for and holds dear, and what the parents want to pass on to their children,” he explains. These kinds of value statements help promote positive energy in the home. “If the language spoken at home is limiting and negative, those words become energy that create more of that. We need to use language that is about confidence, kindheartedness and teamwork,” says Smith.

BALANCE PRIORITIES

According to Schaut, “There will not be an equal balance of time in all categories of life.” Fathers need to understand what matters most to them and then dedicate their time, money and energy in alignment with those priorities.

For Smith, his family comes first, and he makes sure that his business revolves around the home. “We always prioritize family, even if that comes at the price of career,” he says.

Greenfield stacks his priorities in this order: faith first, followed by his relationship with his spouse, family, health and business. His time is meticulously scheduled so that he can dedicate quality time to all of his priorities. He regularly involves his kids in his spiritual practice and exercise routines to set an example and instill positive habits.

Time dedicated to each child is a priority in strong families. Each of Greenfield’s kids has monthly one-on-one dates with Mom and with Dad, two-on-one quality time every Sunday and daily check-ins every morning and during family dinners. “We’ve noticed that our kids will open up and talk to us during a one-on-one,” Smith asserts.

DISCIPLINE WITH LOVE

Smith suggests reimagining the way dads approach discipline. “If you tell your kid, ‘What you did was bad,’ it’s hard for them to hear what you say next, because you are attacking them. If we talk about working or not working, you can say, ‘That really doesn’t work and here’s why.’ Kids are then more open to hearing and learning,” he explains.

Discipline needs to be thoughtfully appropriate for each child and each situation. “You have to know and be in tune with your kid,” says Schaut. “When you discipline them, it must come from love and you responding as a dad to the situation, not reacting.”

But talking will never overcome modeling. “What they see you doing is more important than the advice you give them,” says Greenfield. “At the end of the day, kids just want to be seen and loved and heard.”

Julie Peterson writes on health, wellness and environmental topics. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

25 June 2023

Socially Conscious Investing

HOW TO CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE STOCKS AND MUTUAL FUNDS

“Vote with your pocketbook,” the saying goes, prompting consumers to buy parkas from planet-friendly Patagonia or socks by Bombas, which donates a pair to homeless shelters for every pair purchased. When choosing stocks and mutual funds, a growing number of investors don’t just want to get a good return on their investment, they also seek to support corporations that spread kindness, protect (or do not pollute) the environment and support women, minorities and LGBTQ+ people.

26 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com GREEN LIVING
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This year, the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ) reported that environmental, social and corporate governance investing “represents more than $8 trillion in assets under management in the U.S. alone, and people expect the worldwide number to surpass $50 trillion by the end of 2025.”

These types of mutual funds can yield returns akin to conventional funds, says Michael Young, director of education and outreach for the U.S. Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment (US SIF), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit. Some industries, such as oil and gas, may be more eco-challenged than others, but companies can and should make best efforts relevant to their industries, he says, suggesting that investors review a company’s corporate social responsibility report, which provides insight into their environmental and social practices.

Young recommends that new investors start by determining which social and environmental issues matter most to them. From there, tools such as the free US SIF sustainable investing course (ussif.org/courses_individualinvestors) offer an overview of sustainable investing, as well as investment options and strategies. He also encourages a visit to As You Sow (AsYouSow.org/invest-your-values) to help investors find the companies and mutual funds that align with their social and environmental principles, and to steer clear of those that don’t.

“Most people invest in companies through fund structures via retirement plans or online brokerages,” Young explains. “Through As You Sow, they have search tools that help interested investors

determine if they own funds that include companies in fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing or other industries one might not want to invest in.”

Robin Diedrich, the director of sustainable investing for Edward Jones, asserts that their division arose over the past few years as a result of client demand. The analysts in her division evaluate whether the stated sustainability and financial objectives of a fund are actually being met, using vetting tools like Morningstar (Morningstar.com/topics/sustainable-investing). “Morningstar has become much more rigid in their methodology. They’re trying to make sure that what’s being labeled as sustainable is truly that,” she says.

Diedrich advises investors to use the same criteria that they would use with any fund, whether traditional or sustainable. “It’s important that you look at a sustainable fund in that same way, because it is an investment with your money,” she says. “Ultimately, it needs to be driven by clients’ personal choices, as well as their financial goals.”

SUSTAINABLE INVESTING GOES MAINSTREAM

Green Century Funds (GreenCentury.com) is a mutual funds company that engages corporations on behalf of its shareholders to seek specific outcomes. Young says Green Century Funds’ efforts worked with companies like Starbucks, Conagra Foods and Hormel Foods to eliminate deforestation from their supply chains. “There are ways to leverage your dollar to make an impact, because as an individual, you likely couldn’t convince a large corporation to do that,” Young notes.

Ceres, a nonprofit headquartered in Boston, works with investors, companies and capital market influencers to drive action on sustainability issues. It is the co-founder of numerous sustainability enterprises, including Net Zero Asset Managers, a global initiative through which large institutional investors have committed to support net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the economy by 2050 and interim emissions reductions by 2030. Similarly, many pension funds are signatories to the Paris Aligned Asset Owners, meaning that they also support net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Because of the sheer volume of their trades, institutional investors and pension fund managers have a great deal of clout and are able to influence corporate leaders to take environmental stewardship seriously. Their commitment to net zero greenhouse gas emissions means that corporations are pressed hard by these investors to eliminate emissions by the stated deadlines.

“As the climate crisis has worsened over the years with extreme weather disasters causing multi-billion-dollar losses, disrupting supply chains and affecting corporate business operations, investors have increasingly recognized climate change as a financial risk. Most institutional investors now analyze climate-related financial risks and opportunities and incorporate those risks and related sustainability risks into their decision making,” says Kirsten Snow Spalding, vice president of the Ceres Investor Network.

27 June 2023
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Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Barefoot Blessings BASKING IN THE SOUL OF SUMMER

Summer is a splashy reward after winter wears out its welcome. Spring barely has time to shake blossoms from her hair before we plunge headfirst into summer plans: vacations, barbecues and home improvement. As birds and humans go about their inspired tasks, bees and butterflies dive into their own nectarous agenda. There is no arguing that we all wake up feeling a little bit younger as the days burn longer.

Pulling weeds from the garden, deadheading the zinnias, digging our toes into wet sand and picking up sustenance at the local farmers market bring us back to our primal rhythm. We are more inclined to throw our cares to the wind and lean out of life’s open car window on the way to nowhere in particular. We do not need a plane ticket to exotic shores to find our bliss, only curiosity to explore our own backyards and fall in love with our familiar, well-worn lives.

Timed perfectly, each blossom on the wayside and in the fields has its own hour and medicine. Wildflower wisdom teaches us that we, too, can flourish on seemingly impossible terrain despite fierce opposition from those that do not recognize our value. The blessing of birdsong reminds us that our own survival game can be equally as beautiful when we embody our unique soul-note. Getting up a little earlier can lower our risk of depression and give us a front-row seat to the dew-covered world.

June beckons us to light an outdoor fire on the solstice and watch fireflies fall in love in light codes. At full power, the sun represents the sacred masculine and nature’s resurrection. We are invited to dance with the Green Man, Europe’s ancient symbol of rebirth peering from dappled forests and over church doorways. We are invited to schedule some actual repose into our vacations, even if we just take a holiday at home with a good book under a breezy tree. We are invited to live.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

28 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com INSPIRATION
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JACKSONVILLE’S

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Email Publisher@NAJax.com for guidelines and to submit entries. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

Welcome Summer Retreat — 4pm Friday – 11am Sunday. Reconnect with yourself and nature on this all-inclusive, 3-day women’s camping, yoga, adventure and relaxation retreat. Preregistration required. $900. Palm Coast, Florida. 386-262-9174. YogaElementsRetreats@gmail.com YogaElementsRetreats.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Healing Event — 1-3pm. Meet our practitioners and experience different healing techniques. Cost $15. Love offering goes to St. Jude’s hospital. Spiritual Uplifts 2039 Mound St. Orange Park. 904-292-4555. Spiritualuplifts.com

ONLINE: Ghosts and Things That Go Bump in the Night: an Explanation — 3-5:30pm. $41. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge. www.IFSK.org 407-247-7823.

Kundalini Yoga — 8-9:00am. Also on June 17. Join Ryan Boulware in an ancient yogic technology, referred to as the yoga of awareness. Balance your chakras and find the source of inner strength, peace and balance. $15 Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686 or Seventh-wonder.com/events.

TUESDAY, JUNE 6 & 20

Twin Hearts Meditation – 6-7pm. Falli Shah facilitates this meditation that activates heart and crown chakra, achieving illumination and expression of gratitude. Free, Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 423 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686.

MONDAY, JUNE 7

Animals Are Soul Too – Discover Why6:30-7:30pm. Ponte Vedra Beach Library, 101 Library Blvd. Presented by ECKANKAR Jacksonville. www.eck-florida.org 904725-7760. Meetup.com/EckankarinJacksonville

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Transcendental Meditation Free Introductory Talk by Video Conference — 12noon. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register at Jacksonville@ TM.org or 904-375-9517 and we’ll send the connection link by email or text.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JUNE 10-11

Jewelry Show — 10:30am-6pm. Sparkle and shine with our rare crystal gem jewelry. Event room will be filled with sterling silver jewelry and gems. Gemstones, vintage-Inspired, sterling silver, symbols and more will be 20% off on Items $20 or more. Spiritual Uplifts 2039 Mound St. Orange Park. 904-292-4555. SpiritualUplifts.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

IN-PERSON IN ORANGE PARK: Using Your Psychic Mediumship Skills in Your Everyday Life — 2:00-4:30 PM. Cost:$41. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge, 407-247-7823. www.ifsk.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

Sound Intentions and Manifesting6:30-8pm. Week 1 of 3 part series. Create a custom Intention with power of sound.

Dr. Lorraine Maita, the Hormone Harmonizer and Detoxifier, can help you have boundless energy, stable moods, a lean body, sharp, clear mind and balance your hormones so you can feel like yourself again and even better.

If you need support in getting your life back, apply for a free clarity call to see if we are the right fit at https://you.feelgoodagaincourses.com/ foundations-program. The Feel Good Again Institute (formerly HowToLiveYounger.com)

Testosterone Therapy TRT | Medical Weight Loss | Sexual Health Anti-aging & Regenerative Therapies | Peptide Therapy Do you want to have more ENERGY, lose WEIGHT, have better SEX and live LONGER? Call today for your initial consult! 941.444.1441 gapininstitute.com Located in Sarasota, Florida Serve Nationwide
Not feeling like yourself anymore? Gaining weight, no matter what you do? Tired, have brain fog, moody or “hormonal?”
“I want YOU to Feel Good Again”

Entraining with your consciousness, journaling, Inner guidance. Plant seeds of Intention In this sound experience. Bring mat, blanket and pillow. $35 per session. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686. Seventh-Wonder.com/events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

ONLINE: “Ghosts and things that go bump in the night: an explanation” — 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM. Cost:$41 International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge, 407-247-7823. www.ifsk.org

Psychic Mediiumship Class – 2-5pm. Taught by Lynn. Whether new or wanting to advance your skills, this class will help you grow into your gifts and find your niche. Series of 5, designed to push you further. $45 each class or $200 for series. Call 904292-4555. 2039 Mound St. in Orange Park. SpiritualUplifts.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 18

Vegan Cooking Class - 5-7:00pm. Join spa owner Falli Shah and her husband sunny Shah for a vegan, Indian cooking class that Includes the meal prepared in front of you. Held outdoors weather permitting. $45 Seventh-Wonder Spa 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686.

THURSDAY, JUNE 15

Sound Healing by Kellie Norrgard - 6:307:30pm. Gentle yet powerful vibrations of Tibetan Singing Bowls, quiet your mind and release stress, restoring normal frequency. Dress comfortably and bring mat, blanket and pillow. $25. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686 or Seventh-wonder.com/events.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20

Transcendental Meditation Free Introductory Talk by Video Conference – 6:30pm. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register at Jacksonville@ TM.org or 904-375-9517 and we’ll send the connection link by email or text.

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

Sound Intentions and Manifesting — 6:308pm. Week 2 of 3-part series. Reflecting on shifts and progress, turning deeper layers of subconscious. Profound, multi-instrument sound bath. Bring mat, blanket and pillow. $35 per session. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686. Seventh-Wonder.com/events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

Anniversary Party — 11:30-6pm. Join Spiritual Uplifts Metaphysical Store at their new location, 2039 Mound St. Orange Park. First 40 receive Tansy with Dust, also a gift with $40 purchase. Free classes, explore divination tables, crafts, games, education and more. Schedules online SpiritualUplifts.com. 904-292-4555.

THURSDAY, JUNE 29

Sound Intentions and Manifesting — 6:308pm. Week 3 of 3-part series. Fine tuning clarity with ease. Surrendering to your manisfestation. Integrating sound bath. Bring mat, blanket and pillow. $35 per session. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686. Seventh-Wonder.com/events.

Introductory to Acupressure Class — 9am-4pm. 12 CEU Credits. This Introductory workshop Is designed to provide a broad overview of the scope and practice of Soul Lightening Acupressure. Learn simple techniques for balancing and harmonizing body, mind, and spirit. In this two-day workshop, you will exchange bodywork practices for self-care or take-home skills to implement immediately in your practice. $295, manual included, Seating is limited for this prepaid event. Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center, 9957 Moorings Dr., Suite 403, Jacksonville. 904-268-6568. Info/location: 904 994-4802 or AmandaJHWC@yahoo.com

Ethical Wisdom Class - 6pm-8pm. 2 CEU Credits. Art of Holistic Massage Instructor Alvina Quatrano will be sharing the power behind learning ancient wisdom of our ancestors. Learn how to maintain and uphold an ethical fundamental practice, for any professional business in the field of healing arts. $25, manual included. Seating is limited for this pre-paid event. Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center, 9957 Moorings Dr., Suite 403, Jacksonville. 904-268-6568. Info/location: 904-994-4802 or AmandaJHWC@yahoo.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

MARK YOUR CALENDAR ONGOING WEDNESDAY

Sound Bath Healing – 6pm. Move stressful, heavy and sluggish energy off our bodies with the use of vibrations and tones. $33 per session. Touch Massage & Reiki, 6000A Sawgrass Village Circle, Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-349-7045.

SATURDAY

Sound Bath Healing – 10am. Move stressful, heavy and sluggish energy off our bodies with the use of vibrations and tones. $33 per session. Touch Massage & Reiki, 6000A Sawgrass Village Circle, Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-349-7045.

ings Dr., Suite 403, Jacksonville. 904268-6568. Info/location: 904 994-4802 or AmandaJHWC@yahoo.com

THURSDAY, JULY 6

Transcendental Meditation Free Introductory Talk by Video Conference — 12noon. All the info you need to make an informed decision about learning this effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register at Jacksonville@ TM.org or 904-375-9517 and we’ll send the connection link by email or text.

THURSDAY, JULY 13

Puerto Rico Retreat — 3pm Thursday-11am Sunday. Awaken your adventurous spirit on this 4-day cave, and beach exploration, yoga retreat in Puerto Rico’s central mountain range. Pre-registration required. Starting at $1,200. Ciales, Puerto Rico. 386-262-9174. YogaElementsRetreats @gmail.com YogaElementsRetreats.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20

Providing emotional and spiritual support for those at the end of life, and their families. Advance directives, vigils and much more.

Reflexology Class — 6-9pm, 6 CEU Credits. Discover healing and relaxation through the feet and hands. Art of Holistic Massage Instructor Alvina Quatrano will demonstrate the healing and transformational power of reflexology. Enjoy many opportunities to exchange bodywork practices for self-care or take-home skills to implement immediately in your practice. $100, manual included, Seating is limited for this pre-paid event. Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center, 9957 Moor-

Resilience Reset: Training and Retreat — 4pm–11am Sunday. Receive 10 CEU for registered yoga teachers and licensed mental health therapist while connecting with nature and others on this 3-day, all inclusive retreat weekend featuring your choice of luxury style camping or deluxe cabin lodging. Pre-registration required. Starting at $1,200. Kings Landing, Apopka. 386-262-9174. Yogaelementsretreats@gmail.com YogaElementsRetreats.com.

FRIDAY, NOV. 3

Farm to Heart Retreat — 3 day women’s camping, yoga, adventure and relaxation retreat, preregistration required. $900. Fort White, Florida. 386-262-9174. Y ogaElementsRetreats@gmail.com YogaElementsRetreats.com.

30 Jacksonville / St. Augustine NAJax.com
(904) 351-8216 Call: BeachesEndOfLifeDoula.com
Tammy Hostetler

JACKSONVILLE’S COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@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 Acu-puncture

Physician specializing in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. We offer the highest quality of care while customizing treatments that best suit your needs.

CBD

HYDROPONIC UNIQUE GOODS

862 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville 904-829-4847 • JaxHugs.com

Now carrying Delta products! Hemp is all relaxation without intoxication; research shows numerous health benefits. Garden and hydroponic supplies: Leading brands of soil, nutrients, grow-tents and LED lights. See ad on page 9.

Energy Healing

HEALING ENERGY BY TED

7500 Plantation Club Dr, Jacksonville 904-613-7608 • HealingEnergyByted.com

Certified in Reconnective Healing, The Emotion Code, The Body Code, Reiki Master. Powerful healings, with great compassion and care. Clean chakras, aura, entity removal, in-person and remote sessions for humans and animals. See ad on page 15.

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, online patient portal and more. We utilize the most advanced diagnostics testing available to aid both our diagnoses and treatment. See ad on page 17.

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.

Herbs

LAURENCE LAYNE, LMT, HERBALIST

Healing Waters Clinic & Herb Shop

26 Clark St, St. Augustine

904-826-1965 8 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 on page 25.

Massage

CARING PALMS HEALING ARTS

Brian Dean, LMT MA36835 MM41272

315 10th Ave South, Jacksonville Beach 904-246-2206 • CaringPalms.com

Professional energy work and myofascial release massage. Reiki, meditation, white light, mediumship, massage, meditation and Reiki classes. Continuing education for FL LMTs. See ad on page 8.

Meditation

TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION© CENTERS

Karen & Herb Bandy, Allan Byxbe, Certified Teachers

Jacksonville@TM.org • 904-375-9517

Regine de Toledo, Certified Teacher StAugustine@TM.org • 904-826-3838

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 on page 17.

Thermography

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY

June Drennon, CCT 2008 • JuneDrennon@ FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711

FloridaMedicalThermography.com

Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.

31 June 2023 31 June 2023
Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.
~Albert Einstein
JUNE: MEN’S HEALTH SERIES Increase Metabolism in 28 Days Keeping Your Eyes Strong as you Age Overcoming the Men’s Health Crisis The 100 Year Lifestyle Alan Christianson, NMD Eric Plasker, DC Bryce Appelbaum, O.D., FCOVD Tracy Gapin, MD, FACS Key Habits to Create Tough Kids and a Lasting Legacy How to Show up as a Leader in Your Home Performing When and How You Want Peak Performance Posture Ben Greenfield Krista Burns, DC Tarin Forbes, DO, ABFM, ABAARM, FAARFM, ABOIM Christopher Smith CHANGE YOUR LIFE AS YOU AGE! Join the most influential and renowned experts in men’s health and personal development! Create tangible next steps and masterfully apply new life skills TODAY! Scan the QR code to JOIN US LIVE ONLI NE Every Tuesday in June at 8pm EDT

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