December 2021 Jacksonville St. Augustine Natural Awakenings Magazine by Jacksonville St. Augustine Natural Awakenings Magazine

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

SUGAR-FREE

TREATS

for the festive season HOW TO REL AX INTO THE HOLIDAYS CELEBRATIONS WITH THE EARTH IN MIND AMP UP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

December 2021 | Jacksonville / St. Augustine | NAJax.com

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 12 CIRCLES OF HEALING

The Power of Gathering in Community

15 SEASON OF LIGHT Celebrating the Soul of Winter

16 AMP UP IMMUNITY Proven Boosters for Good Health

18 HOLIDAY ZEN

Stress-Free Fitness and Self-Care

20 THOMAS MOORE

on the Art of Soulful Listening

22 THE SWEET DANGER OF SUGAR

Ways to Enjoy Healthier Holiday Fare

26 GREENING THE HOLIDAYS

How to Celebrate Sustainably

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise in Natural Awakenings, please call 386-736-3838 or email Ads@NAJax.com. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Email calendar events to: Editor@NAJax.com. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets. Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets, call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com. NAJAX.COM 2

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

DEPARTMENTS 5 event briefs 6 health briefs 8 global briefs 11 eco tip 15 inspiration 16 healing ways 18 fit body 20 wise words 22 conscious

eating 26 green living 28 calendar 30 resource guide

letter from publisher

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

elcome to our final edition of 2021, focused on uplifting humanity. Our editorial team’s offerings will fill you with inspiration and creative ideas to enjoy this holiday season. Be sure to visit our website for the full array of content. In these days when so many of us are feeling separated and isolated from each other, approaches that bring people together in small groups offer valuable opportunities. These community gatherings known as wisdom circles, support groups, and prayer circles offer creative solutions to societal issues. Linda Sechrist beautifully presents this theme in our main feature, Uplifting Humanity. Maintaining a strong immune system is so important, especially during the cooler winter months when our natural intake of vitamin D from the sun is reduced. Ronica O’Hara explores immune boosting in Healthy Ways. In addition to getting enough sleep, exercise and plant-based foods, we can boost our immunity by adding specific supplements to our daily routine. Adaptogens such as astralagus and panax ginseng, mushrooms like reishi and turkey tail perform specific functions in the immune system that keep our body in balance and boost our resistance to illness. As powders, they can be easily added into drinks or foods, and they can also be taken as tinctures or pills. Sugary treats are embedded in our holiday traditions, yet they do little to actually make us feel merry and bright in the long run. The corrosive effects of a high sugar diet are at the root of many chronic conditions. Reading labels to avoid hidden sugars is one of the suggestions for reducing your overall sugar load in Conscious Eating. Substituting herbs and spices for sugar in homemade recipes is another option. Chromium picolinate as a supplement is known to reduce cravings. Check out the recipes for baklava cookie cups, baked apples, dark chocolate bark and honey lavender cookies. Explore the art of listening in Wise Words, as Thomas Moore, author, Jungian-based psychotherapist, musician and former monk discusses why too often we debate rather than converse. Only by finding peace in ourselves can we listen well. Moore is optimistic that we are slowly evolving into a more humane community of earth beings. Let this holiday season be an opportunity not just to make sustainable choices, but to take action that positively impacts the planet and inspires friends and family. Choose wrapping gifts with fabric instead of paper, avoid toxic glitter that adds to the microplastics problem, decorate with a potted living tree, and give gifts like hiking shoes, plants and donations to earth-friendly causes. Something inside our ancestral memory makes us crave connection and celebration as we recognize the year’s end. From our family to yours, may you have the merriest of Christmases, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

TinasDreamworld/DepositPhotos.com

We look forward to journeying into 2022 with you, our valued readers.

JACKSONVILLE / ST. AUGUSTINE EDITION

Publisher Rebecca Young Publisher@NAJax.com Writer Erin Floresca

Editor Sara Gurgen Calendar Editor Sara Peterson

Design & Production Melanie Rankin

Graphic Design Josh Halay

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Jacksonville / St. Augustine Office: 386-736-3838 Publisher@NAJax.com P.O. Box 731466 Ormond Beach, FL 32173

NATIONAL TEAM CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Layout & Design Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakenings.com © 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although so me par ts of this public ation may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Rebecca Young, Publisher

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

December 2021

Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. “The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.” Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast. September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.” “They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched. Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished. Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses. Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA24. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?” Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives. Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever. The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease. “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

Copper can stop a cold before it starts

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

event briefs

Unity White Stone Ceremony

nity Church for Creative Living, in St. Johns, invites everyone to join Rev. Yvonne McAndrew for their annual White Stone Ceremony on January 2 at 10:30 a.m.; it will be offered in person and streamed on Facebook and YouTube. “During this unique service, we invite the divine presence within to gift us with a new spiritual name that will serve as inspiration for the coming year,” says McAndrew. “This service is a favorite of many, as it connects head and heart thereby supporting the intentions you desire to set for the new year. Start the new year off by meeting like-minded truth seekers. I Rev. Yvonne McAndrew look forward to seeing you!” Location: 2777 Race Track Rd. For more information, call 904-2871505 or visit UnityInJax.com. See ad, page 15.

Coming Home for the Holidays at Unity

ev. Yvonne McAndrew, of Unity Church for Creative Living in St. Johns, invites readers to “come home” on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve to a spiritual community that is open, welcoming and infused with love as they offer their Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service on December 24 and their New Year’s Eve Burning Bowl Service on December 31. Both services begin at 7 p.m. and are offered in person and streamed on Facebook and YouTube. Shares McAndrew: “Familiar sights, sounds, smells and traditions that move us deep inside when we think of that old acquainted song, ‘There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays.’ Maybe it’s the joyous welcome, the hugs, the happy faces glad to see us. Perhaps it’s the smell of mom’s holiday turkey, stuffing or homemade pie. It could be reuniting with family members we have not seen in a while, and perchance it could be all of these things and more. No matter where we are this Christmas, may we rekindle the holiday spirit and celebrate all that we are so grateful for. Unity is a coming home for the soul. Join us this holiday season and feel the love.” Location: 2777 Race Track Rd. For more information, call 904-2871505 or visit UnityInJax.com. See ad, page 15.

Personalized treatments for eﬀective results Specializing in Acupuncture 15+ years Doctors refer their patients for Quality Acupuncture Certiied by Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Oﬀering Acupuncture, AcuPoint Injections, LED Therapy, Facial Rejuvenation, Massage and more

Gift Certiicates available!

904-373-8415 www.AWayOfLifeAcupuncture.com December 2021

health briefs

The deep visceral fat that surrounds internal organs is a major indicator of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, but it can be decreased in women by eating an avocado each day, report researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. For 12 weeks, 105 overweight or obese men and women were fed a meal that for only half of the participants included an avocado. The women that ate avocados experienced a reduction in visceral abdominal fat, as well as a reduced ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat closer to the skin, indicating a redistribution of fat away from the organs. Fat distribution in males did not change.

The fragrant Damask rose (Rosa damascene), a common ingredient in essential oils and perfumes, has been used for a millennia in the Middle East to treat chest pain, menstrual bleeding, heart weakness and digestive ailments. A new study by Iranian researchers has found that it also boosts liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The 37 participating patients that took 500 milligrams of rose petal extract daily for 12 weeks had significantly better serum ALT (liver enzyme) levels compared to the placebo group. The rose extract also reduced triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins and blood pressure, and it significantly improved metabolic syndrome markers.

Healthy older adults that ate about a half cup of walnuts every day for two years gained a modest reduction in lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad cholesterol”, reports a study of 636 people from San Diego’s Loma Linda University. Other risk factors for heart health—small LDL particles and intermediate-density lipoprotein—also decreased, signaling a lower chance of cardiovascular events. “Many people are worried about unwanted weight gain when they include nuts in their diet,” says study co-author Emilio Ros, M.D., Ph.D. “Our study found that the healthy fats in walnuts did not cause participants to gain weight.”

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

Avoid Antibiotics to Lower Colon Cancer Risk A clear link exists between taking antibiotics for six months and developing colorectal cancer in the next five to 10 years, report researchers from Umea University, in Sweden. By comparing the records of 40,000 Swedish cancer patients to 200,000 people without cancer, they found that taking antibiotics for at least six months increased the risk of cancer by 17 percent in the ascending colon, the first part to be reached by food after the small intestine. However, no increased risk was found for cancer in the descending colon. Those taking the most antibiotics had the greatest risk, but even a single course was associated with a small, but statistically significant risk increase. “While in many cases antibiotic therapy is necessary and saves lives, in the event of less serious ailments that can be expected to heal anyway, caution should be exercised,” says Umea University researcher Sophia Harlid, Ph.D. ana terevich/Pexels.com

Eat Walnuts to Reduce Bad Cholesterol and Heart Disease

wasanajai/AdobeStock.com

Try Damask Rose Extract to Boost Liver Function

ready made/Pexels.com

Eat an Avocado Daily to Redistribute Belly Fat

Try Garlic to Relieve Endometriosis Pain

karolina grabowski/Pexels.com

For women suffering from pelvic and back pain associated with endometriosis (uterus growth), garlic may help. In an Iranian study published in the journal Evidence-Based Alternative and Complementary Medicine, half of a group of 60 women with the disorder were given 400 milligrams of garlic in tablets daily, and the others received a placebo. Over a span of three months, researchers found that the women taking the garlic tablets had significantly less pelvic and back pain, as well as significant reductions in discomfort during menstruation and sexual intercourse.

Upcoming

Events

www.jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com/upcoming-events POLAR EXPRESS HOLIDAY EVENT

Meet Santa, Shop & Watch the Polar Express

Saturday • December 11th 8:30 AM–12:30 PM

IMAX Theatre World Golf Village

1 World Golf Place St. Augustine • FL

BRIDE TO BE & WEDDING EXPO

Holly Jolly Holiday Shopping Event Thursday • December 18 • 10AM–5PM 500 Outlet Mall Blvd • St. Augustine • FL SHOP LOCAL & MEET SANTA HOLIDAY RAFFLE

Holistic Living & Healing Expo Saturday • February 19TH • 10AM–2PM World Golf Village Renaissance 500 S Legacy Trail • St. Augustine, FL

Drink More Water to Help Prevent Heart Disease

SUNDAY • JANUARY 16TH • 11AM–2PM PRESENTED BY HALL OF FAME WORLD GOLF VILLAGE

Experience the latest in natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, creative expression, personal growth, sustainable living, and so much more!

snapwire/Pexels.com

Staying well hydrated throughout life could reduce the risk of heart failure, according to a study presented at the European Society of Cardiology 2021 Congress. Researchers from the U.S. National Institutes of Health reported that people that drink sufficient water every day have a reduced risk of the thickening of the heart’s left ventricle. Their conclusion was based on the analysis of 26 years’ worth of serum sodium levels in 15,792 middle-age Americans. Higher serum sodium concentration in midlife was associated with heart failure and left ventricular hypertrophy 25 years later. Few people meet daily hydration recommendations (54 to 71 ounces for women and 67 to 101 ounces for men). According to the researchers, when people drink less fluid, the concentration of sodium in the blood increases, and the body attempts to conserve water by activating processes known to contribute to the development of heart failure. “The findings indicate that we need to pay attention to the amount of fluid we consume every day and take action if we find that we drink too little,” says study author Natalia Dmitrieva. December 2021

Holy Smoke!

global briefs Planting 500 Billion Trees

tom fisk/Pexels.com

The UK tech company Dendra claims their drone can plant two trees per second using artificial intelligence for guidance in an effort to re-green the Earth. Their ambitious goal is to plant 500 billion trees by 2060 with 400 teams of two drone operators and 10 drones per team. The plan would plant 10 billion trees per year 10 times more cheaply than planting by hand, especially in remote areas. First, the replanting areas are identified using a combination of satellite images and drone-collected data. Then, specialized drones carrying seedpods that contain a germinated seed and nutrients use pressurized air to fire the seeds into the ground once in proper position as determined by an algorithm. The seedpods penetrate the ground and start to grow when activated by precipitation. The World Wildlife Fund estimates the planet is losing 27 football fields of forest every minute due to deforestation. Dendra CEO Susan Graham says, “We need to use technology to scale up our restoration efforts, and the scale we’re talking about is tens of billions of trees every year. We’ll be able to see the ecosystems that we’ve restored from space.”

University of Rhode Island research published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters describes a new technique for measuring the presence of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in indoor air, which found them in kindergarten classrooms, offices, laboratories and a home. We have known about toxic “forever chemicals” in food and drinking water, and it seems they are also ubiquitous in the air. PFAS are a class of approximately 9,000 chemicals used to improve stain, water or heat resistance in products. The public health concern is that they don’t break down in the environment. PFAS accumulate in animals and humans and are linked to health impacts including cancer, birth defects and immune suppression. The scientists think PFAS enter the atmosphere when compounds break off of treated products like coats or carpets and attach to dust. “It’s an underestimated and potentially important source of exposure to PFAS,” says study co-author and Green Science Policy Institute Senior Scientist Tom Bruton. According to the Institute, schools and offices can protect students and employees by replacing carpeting, but that doesn’t prevent PFAS from entering via coats or shoes. Bruton writes, “As long as they continue to be used in products, we’ll all be eating, drinking and breathing PFAS. We need to turn off the tap and stop all unnecessary uses of PFAS as soon as possible.”

Shine On

Large-Scale Solar Power Cost Plummets

pixabey/Pexels.com

A report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) describes a significant decrease in the cost of renewable energy sources compared to 2020, with solar leading the pack by a wide margin. The 10year average adjusted costs of generation for a plant over its lifetime are 85 percent for utility-scale solar; 56 percent for onshore wind; 48 percent for offshore wind; and 68 percent for concentrated solar power. IRENA continues to see drops of between 7 percent and 16 percent in these categories this year. According to the same report, the 62 percent of new renewables added last year had lower costs than the cheapest fossil fuels. New renewables are increasingly competitive against existing fossil fuels. In the U.S., 61 percent of current coal capacity already has higher operating costs. Phasing out these coal plants would start saving money almost immediately. IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera states that because renewables cost more upfront than keeping old coal rolling, action is needed to make sure emerging economies are not left behind. “We are far beyond the tipping point of coal.” 8

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

graphic&IllustrAdobeStock.com

Forever Chemicals in Indoor Air

Green Future

Peaceful Settlement

Native Americans Win Historic Water Battle Shchipkova/AdobeStock.com

The Indigenous Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have reached an historic $1.9 billion water rights settlement with Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, resolving thousands of tribal claims to waterways in Montana. The largest of its kind, this agreement authorizes funding to modernize the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project, a 1,300-mile network of aging canals. It also provides funding for habitat restoration and transfers control of the National Bison Range to the tribes. The dispute stems from the 1855 Treaty of Hellgate, which created the 1.25-million-acre reservation. The agreement establishes a Flathead Reservation Water Management Board to govern water use within the reservation. Two members of the board will be chosen by the tribe, two will be chosen by the governor of Montana and a fifth will be chosen by the four appointed members. Tribal Chairwoman Shelly R. Fyant says, “Our elders continually remind us to protect our water, and this day marks the beginning of the water compact implementation that will protect the water for all generations to come.” Ryan Rusche, an attorney for the tribes, says, “The settlement provides water to fulfill the purpose of the reservation, which is a permanent homeland for the tribes, while at the same time protecting existing non-Indian uses of water on the reservation where there is a significant irrigation-based economy.”

Yoga Teacher Training As the first Registered Yoga School in Jacksonville since 2005, our students graduate with the knowledge to teach Yoga Basics, Mind Body and Power Vinyasa classes, covering every fitness level.

Holiday Special 1 year Unlimited only $949!

unlimited membership at your home studio, and only $10 drop-Ins at all other Yoga Dens.

2022 - 200TT

Jacksonville: 6 month weekend only - January 8th -June 12th Spring Immersion March 28th-April 16th Tallahassee: 6 month weekend only - January 22nd -June 19th

300 Hour TT

Living the 8 Limbs Dec. 11/12 2022 F ULL 300 HOUR TT PROGRAM

Begins January 15/16th with Yin Yoga Training

NEW MEMBER INTRO SPECIAL One Month Unlimited for $49!

FIRST CLASS F REE

Mandarin Fleming Island Southside • Avondale World Golf Village San Pablo Shoppes of Bayard Crossroads • Oakleaf Nocatee • Yellow Bluff

YOGA-DEN.COM

since 2002 Classes • Training • WellnessBoutique

December 2021

Exploring Scalar Energy

he two main energies in the universe are electromagnetic energy and scalar energy. One vast difference between the two is that electromagnetic energy degrades over time or distance. For instance, a radio wave only travels so far before the signal fades. Scalar energy, or scalar light, on the other hand, is a light wave that can travel from one side of the Earth to the other instantaneously with no loss of power. Neither time nor distance affects the power of a scalar wave; scalar waves are faster than the speed of light. When electromagnetic energy degrades, the term used is “entropy”, while the scientific term associated with scalar energy is “syntropy”, or negative entropy. When we lose some of our life force energy due to stress or illness, we experience entropy. Vibrant health would be considered syntropy—no loss of life force. So disease states are a state of “losing light”—a human form of entropy. Scalar light instruments harness scalar energy from the sun and the stars. This vital energy is abundant in our universe and is the thread that connects all things. The following are some of the many testimonials of clients that have benefitted from scalar light sessions:

soon as I get back to work (I was in such a bad place, I had to quit my job). I feel balanced and whole again. God bless!” – Joanne

“Thank you so much for this work! My sense of well-being has increased so naturally. I am grabbing more out of life.” – William

Receive a 15-day free trial. After the trial, Natural Awakenings readers will receive a 20 percent discount for any single month of scalar light sessions until Dec. 31, 2021. Visit ScalarLight.com and use discount code NATURAL.

“Thank you, for this was the healing I needed. I feel like the scalar light trial was sent to me from above. I will be using this again as

“The changes for me have been subtle. I sleep sound through the night. I have greater mental clarity. I've had diverticulitis in the past, which left me constipated. My daily elimination is normal and regular. This is a very big deal. My sinuses are clear. I've always thought I was pretty healthy, but I feel better than ever. I've signed up for 30 days. Scaler light is amazing!” – Lana “The Scalar Energy 15-day trial, which is on day 10, has convinced me to subscribe for a year. I feel better about my future; have felt lighter in my body and spirit; and definitely felt the detox, so I know it’s working! Thank you.” – Barbara “First of all thank you so much for the opportunity to try this free trial! The first two weeks, I felt very noticeable changes occurring in my body. I had a clear sense of well-being, more energy, tuned in with my self-care needs, and felt very positive. Also, my sleep became much deeper and longer, and I felt more refreshed in the morning. I was going for walks after dinner more and more. I can’t say enough positive things about this process. Thank you so much.”– Diane

– Advertorial – 10

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

eco tip

ECKANKAR

Sustainable Kitchen

The Path of Spiritual Freedom

Advice for Buying and Storing Food

netrun78/AdobeStock.com

As we awaken to the climate crisis, we are called to participate in its solutions. In addition to frequenting farmers’ markets, much can be done at the grocery store and in the kitchen. By adopting these easy practices incrementally, we’ll be living zero-waste lifestyles before we know it. AT THE GROCERY STORE Food waste is environmentally problematic, producing a significant amount of greenhouse gases. Before entering the grocery store, plan meals for the week and build a shopping list to prevent overbuying. Buy staples like nuts, beans, flours, grains, dried fruit and chocolate chips in bulk, carrying them home in reusable cotton sacks that can be purchased from artisans on Etsy.com. Some grocery stores offer paper bags in the bulk aisle; choose these over plastic and save them for subsequent uses. Many of us have stopped drinking bottled water to ditch single-use plastics. Consider expanding that effort by forgoing packaged products that can be made easily from scratch, including salad dressings, breads, hummus, nut milks, nut butters, jams, tortilla chips and granola. Some food companies employ eco-friendly packaging, setting an example for the rest of the industry. Read labels not just for ingredients, but for packaging practices, too. For example, look for shelf-stable dried goods packaged in recycled cardboard boxes printed with vegetable-based inks. While loose tea is the most sustainable choice, we can also opt for compostable tea bag brands that don’t use strings, staples or individual wrappers.

Go beyond the ordinary — Find the truth that lies within you and discover how you are creating your own reality every moment.

View our upcoming online events at

www.eck-florida.org

Jacksonville ECK Information: 904-725-7760

HEALING ENERGY ByTED

Reiki • Reconnective Healing The Emotion and Body Code Divine Healing • Amethyst BioMat • Healy

(904) 613-7608 Jacksonville, FL

www.healingenergybyted.com

IN THE KITCHEN One of the most elegant and traditional storage solutions is the Mason jar. It’s an inexpensive, reusable, versatile option, not just for canning and preserving foods, but also for storing bulk pantry items or refrigerated leftovers. While paper towels and napkins may be biodegradable, an Earth-friendlier choice is reusable washcloths and fabric napkins that are easily washed in the laundry. Avoid ones that come in plastic wrapping. Darker colors will hide stains better, but if they help save the planet, embrace the stains. Several options exist to avoid plastic wrap and disposable plastic containers, including reusable silicone freezer bags, beeswax wraps, glass spray bottles and stainless steel canisters. Keep and reuse grocery store jars. Soaking them to remove the labels is easy. A bristled, wooden dish brush is preferable to petroleum-based disposable sponges that come wrapped in plastic. They last longer, don’t produce as much bacteria and are capable scrubbers. Use bar soap to avoid plastic dishwashing liquid containers.

Natural Awakenings EMPOWER. EDUCATE. CONNECT. December 2021

The Power of Gathering in Community by Linda Sechrist

ad the intellectual achievements of human culture evolved during a revolution based on living systems in the natural world rather than one of rapid industrial growth and resource consumption, we might be experiencing interconnectedness instead of divisiveness during this time of social and ecological crisis. A nature-focused revolution embracing humans as an integral part of the Earth’s natural systems would have instilled a deeper understanding of the wonders of the human body as a living system imbued with inner intelligence, as well as the intelligence of the non-human living world. This perspective, held by Native Americans, would have helped to create sustainable human communities that flourish by connecting, collaborating, cooperating and communicating. With such approaches as wisdom circles, story circles, power of eight intention circles, support groups, prayer circles and dialogue circles exploring conflict solutions, Western minds are just beginning to comprehend how small-community experiences of fellowship and communion can assuage feelings of separation and isolation, and create inner experiences of wholeness and belonging.

Mentoring Each Other

Although not always sharing a common geographical location, 12

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

small communities formed around common interests and shared values enable emotional healing. The ManKind Project (MKP), which describes itself as a “men’s community for the 21st century,” has more than 1,000 peer-facilitated groups in 22 countries in which men mentor each other through their life passages. “In our MKP communities, there’s a sense of shared commitment and the shared values of accountability, authenticity, compassion, generosity, integrity, respect, leadership and multicultural awareness, along with a shared vision pointing us in the direction we want to go together,” says Boysen Hodgson, MKP-USA communications director. “While MKP’s mission statement informs our work, in New Warrior Adventure training, each man creates a personal mission statement. Mine is, ‘I transform culture by designing change, building bridges and co-creating space for connection.’” According to Hodgson, when a man shares how he hears his inner voice for the first time along with his story in another man’s story, he becomes aware of his interior capacities and cultivates internal and external listening skills. By sharing personal stories, men experience epiphanies that can result in connections and bonding. Douglas Bonar, a 35-year veteran of mental health counseling and owner of A Center for Wellness, in Pinellas Park, Florida, has been facilitating men’s groups for 22 years. Men and occasionally women that have been court-ordered to undergo counseling with

fizkes/AdobeStock.com

Circles of Healing

Bonar for 29 weeks after their incarceration learn the value of growing together in community. “I initiate the uninitiated who’ve never heard about the powerful impacts of respectful, attentive listening without judgement, giving/receiving feedback and support, and learning about successes and failures in the company of community,” says Bonar. “Actively engaging the minds, hearts and energy of people participating in community makes experiencing emotional healing possible. Feeling truly heard and deeply listened to and comprehending life from a multisensory human perception and a sense of oneness can lead to understanding that we are never alone, the universe is alive—conscious, intelligent and compassionate.” More about progress than perfection, Bonar’s unique Roots and Wings Way of Wholeness approach to healing in community tills the soil of an inner world and plants seeds via the introduction of guidelines for creating authentic power, spiritual growth, levels of consciousness, coherence, the realization of one’s true self as more than an enculturated personality, the Noetic experience of oneness, humans as energetic beings, emotions as energy in motion and a coherent energetic field that the HeartMath Institute notes creates synchronization, or entrainment, between the heart and mind, as well as a sense of unity.

Sharing Sacred Space

Jean Shinoda Bolen, a Jungian psychiatrist, activist and author of Moving Toward the Millionth Circle: Energizing the Global Women’s Movement, encourages everyone to follow a path with soul and take on a personal assignment that contributes to change, while relying on the support of circle communities of like-minded individuals. “Fundamental principles applicable to any group include creating sacred space, listening with compassion and for wisdom, speaking from the heart and personal experience, inviting silence and reflection when needed, taking responsibility for your experience and your impact on the circle, keeping the confidence of the circle and making decisions when needed by consensus,” says Bolen, whose active events include a prayer circle and another with women she has been together with since the 1980s. “The more frequently a circle meets to fully witness one another’s life stories, including all the changes and crises, a growing trust and heart connection occurs and a coherent energy field is created,” says Bolen. At the beginning of her circle gatherings, upon hearing the tone of a Tibetan bowl, she says, everyone immediately drops into coherence; a state of connectedness in which the whole is greater than the sum of the individual parts.

Cultivating Deep Listening

As the host of New Dimensions, a nationally syndicated radio program that addresses cultural shifts, Justine Willis Toms has deeply explored interconnectedness with some of the greatest minds on the planet, including the Dalai Lama and physicist David Bohm. Referring to her circle communities as “friends of the heart,” she enthuses, “When I am deeply listening to another or speaking authentically aloud in a circle of trust, I get to hear myself in a way that I don’t if I’m only listening to what is in my head.”

Recalling a tumultuous time in her life, Toms relates a profound healing experience that occurred in a circle community in which she and her husband had been participating since the 1980s. “This particular circle usually gathers for an entire weekend. On one, I arrived in deep distress—so much so that on Friday I began pouring out my fears, anxiety, blame and judgements. I raged through the night and didn’t stop until after breakfast on Saturday, when I felt complete, totally heard, emotionally healed and revived.” From a sense of peace and clarity, Toms knew that healing occurred because of the circle’s capacity for deep listening. “We know and trust the true genius that each of us is, and we know how to not be afraid for each other when life is in a rollercoaster cycle and we’re at the bottom, but don’t want to pull the brake because we’ll never have the momentum to go back up. This is the power of a circle of friends of the heart who love you,” says Toms, who shares a favorite African saying, “‘A friend is someone who knows your song and sings it to you when you have forgotten it. Those who love you are not fooled by the mistakes you’ve made or the dark images you hold about yourself. They remember your beauty when you feel ugly, your wholeness when you are broken, your innocence when you’re feeling guilty and your purpose when you are confused.’”

Connecting through Common Emotions

Physician Jennifer Phelps, owner of Phelps MD Integrative Medicine, in Redding, Connecticut, is a trained facilitator of small groups who has worked in communities traumatized by natural disasters and human-caused catastrophes in her role as a faculty member of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C. “Where individuals listen to the grief and loss of others, emotional healing can be quite profound. Sharing stories in community, we learn we’re not alone and isolated, but rather related and connected in our human emotions,” says Phelps, adding that in groups of fewer than six people cohesiveness dissipates, leaving only conversation and cross-talk. The process of human and community development unfolds from within each person, relationship and community. According to Cate Montana, of Kula, Hawaii, author of The E-Word: Ego, Enlightenment & Other Essentials, awakening to the illusion of separation, which can happen in community, sparks healing. “The persona of an individual as only a body and mind is the big sleep,” advises Montana, whose life work has been about waking people up to the truth of their essential spiritual nature and giving them tools for a more fulfilling life. Having experiences of fellowship and communion with likeminded people can make it possible to observe and understand how ego and mind function, and to become aware of crippling social programming which fragments, separates and divides us. Experiencing a sense of wholeness in such an environment allows for healing naturally on many levels. Linda Sechrist is Natural Awakenings’ senior staff writer. Connect at LindaSechrist.com. December 2021

Ideas for Starting and Maintaining a Circle by Justine Willis Toms When I tell someone that I’ve been meeting in a circle with the same people for more than three decades, they invariably ask, “How can I have that in my life?” They are eager to hear my stories, but feel overwhelmed about how to start a circle of their own. While those first steps feel like the biggest steps, they are really baby steps.

Best Practices for Circles These agreements have helped circles to function more successfully for all participants.

Three-step advice: 1. Make the commitment and write it down 2. Put out the call 3. Be consistent

n Consider it a sacred space

Step One: Set forth a clear intention.

n Encourage and welcome diverse

Years ago, I learned from Rev. Mary Manin Morrissey that everything is born twice: first in the imagination and then into the world. In the beginning, you will not know all the details, but you need to be clear in the overall intention of starting a circle and meeting regularly. Instead of saying, “Having a circle in my life is a good idea,” say, “It’s as good as done; I’m going to make it so no matter what.” Then write it down. This anchors it into the world of manifestation. Step Two: Put out the call. After making the inner commitment, you need to tune into other people that want to travel with you. It doesn’t take a lot of people to begin; one or two others will be fine. Talk to a friend about this idea. You may feel awkward at first, but be assured there is a field of energy holding you—humans we have been circling since the dawn of history. If people turn you down, do not be discouraged. Trust that the perfect people will begin to show up. It is my experience that if even two people meet using circle principles on a regular basis it acts as an attractor for others. Step Three: Meet on a consistent basis. Put your circle time in your calendar as an important event. Keep this commitment just as you would a medical or dental appointment. Show up and keep the appointment even if you are the only one. There will be times when you feel too tired to go. Go anyway. Afterwards, you’ll be truly delighted you went. Being sporadic in your meeting time will create a “leaky container”. Meeting consistently builds a powerful and vitalizing bond.

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

n One person speaks at a time n Speak and listen from the heart

points of view

n Listen with discernment instead

of judgment

n When in doubt or need, pause and

silently ask for guidance

n Share leadership and resources n Decide together how decisions

will be made

n Work toward consensus

when possible

n Offer experience instead of advice n Decide together what is to be held

in confidence

n Speak from your own experiences

and beliefs rather than speaking for others

n Open and close the circle by hear-

ing each voice (Check-ins and check-outs)

inspiration

Season of Light Celebrating the Soul of Winter by Marlaina Donato

kharchenkoirina/AdobeStock.com

nevitably, the wheel of the year turns with the nuances of the seasons hardly noticed in the blur of our busy days. “Next year,” we say, when we realize that we’ve run out of time to try that holiday recipe, connect with friends or revel in a winter sunset. Collecting small joys takes us out of survival mode and into wide-awake living. Pausing to sip from winter’s steaming cup of comfort can be the perfect way to begin a new chapter that prompts us to come back to the center. In the ancient world, fire festivals marked holy days celebrating the sun’s promise of return and supplied felicity in a time of hardship. Today, something inside our ancestral memories makes us crave celebration as we wrap the year’s end in shiny ribbon, ethereal lights and scented candles. Singing, chanting or caroling this time of year—“old-fashioned” pastimes—were ancient elements of winter’s revels that invited benevolent energy and chased away bad luck. While most of us no longer grace our neighbors with song, raising our voices to any capacity can be an offering, an invitation to hope and beauty. Singing multicultural songs with the kids, writing a spontaneous prayer or sharing seasonal or funny stories naturally boosts the immune system and helps to fight off the winter blues. Winter has its own jewel-toned beauty that rivals summer’s most dazzling hour if we pay attention: ruby fruits baked with brown sugar, rosy desert mornings and snowy sapphire twilights. Pointing out December constellations over a beach or lacing up our boots for a brisk walk helps us to unplug from the world’s problems. Sprinkling heart-healthy spices in our morning coffee opens a gloomy day on a lovely note. Winter can feel long, so go ahead and treat your senses; buy a few yards of red velvet to sleep on or pick up that novel you’ve been planning to read. Live and give a little more deeply. Feed the birds and feed your soul. Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer of ambient holiday music. Connect at WildflowerLady.com. Revels Around the World: n The celebration of Soyal by the Hopi people of northern Arizona centers on purification, dancing and inviting the favor of the Kachinas, or protective nature spirits. n The ancient Persian festival Yalda celebrates family time and the triumph of the sun, with people staying awake

to see the sunrise and eat foods such as pomegranates and nuts. n The Chinese festival of Dong Zhi, or the “arrival of winter”, is an ancient celebration of labor and the closing year. n The Ukrainian celebration of Malanka, or Orthodox New Year, is a type of Mardi Gras involving masks, costumes and singing from house to house. December 2021

healing ways

Amp Up Immunity Proven Boosters for Good Health

foxyliam/AdobeStock.com

by Ronica O’Hara

s we head into the holidays, a gift that many of us wish for is a strong immune system to protect us not only from serious illness, but also from wintry coughs and sniffles. Robust immunity rests on three pillars, research shows: getting at least seven hours of sleep a night to allow immune functions to reboot; daily exercise to stimulate the production of white blood cells that fight off harmful bacteria and viruses; and plant-based foods to supply the antioxidants and phytochemicals needed to reduce inflammation and keep cells humming happily. In addition, we can enhance immunity by adding specific adaptogens and mushroom powders into our daily routine. These study-proven substances perform specific functions in the immune system that boost our resistance to illness. As powders, they can be easily added into drinks or foods, and they can also be taken as tinctures or pills.

Modulating Immunity with Adaptogens

Used for millennia in China and India, adaptogens are plants 16

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

that keep the body in balance by helping it adapt to stress. They interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a complex system of glands, hormones and receptors that helps manage homeostasis, stress responses and energy metabolism. “Adaptogens are a great way to boost immunity, especially if you are constantly sick and run down due to feeling stressed,” says Heather Hanks, a Plymouth, Michigan, nutritionist with USA Rx. Adaptogens typically take two or three weeks to become effective; follow package directions for proper dosage. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), an herb called locoweed in the U.S., boosts immune function by increasing natural killer cell activity and enhancing the function of macrophages, the “immune sentinels” that reside in tissues. A recent review suggests that long-term use of astragalus might help prevent colds, and taking it for up to six weeks may relieve seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itching and sneezing. It has also been shown to improve recovery after illness, disease or prolonged stress and to help post-chemotherapy patients regain health.

Polish researchers found that rowing team athletes given 500 milligrams of astragalus root extract each day for six weeks had immune systems that recovered faster after strenuous exercise. Panax Ginseng, a perennial plant from East Asia, keeps the immune system in balance by regulating its components, including macrophages, dendritic cells and both T and B cells. It improves resistance to illness and microbial attacks, helps counter stress, controls inflammation, improves cognitive functions and has been found effective in the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, insulin resistance and hypertension. Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as holy basil, “enhances the immune response, protects the body against bacterial and viral infection and promotes clear and comfortable breathing,” says Ameya Duprey, a certified Ayurvedic practitioner in Nevada City, California. Studies show that it also helps prevent liver, kidney and brain injury by protecting against the genetic, immune and cellular damage caused by pesticides, pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.

The Marvel of Medicinal Mushrooms

Used medicinally since at least 3,000 BCE, certain mushrooms have been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, anti-diabetic, liver-protective and anticancer properties. They are usually not cooked, but rather taken as a powder that can be added to foods like smoothies, cereals and stir-fries. Reishi mushrooms increase the activity of killer cells and lower inflammation in white cells, warding off infections. “They are used by cancer patients, as they support a healthy immune system, have antioxidant properties and may prevent or treat infections,” says Linda Strause, Ph.D., an adjunct professor of human nutrition at University of California San Diego, whose husband with brain cancer was encouraged to take the mushrooms as a supplement.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†

LOVE THIS FIND TRUE

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensi) is harvested from the larvae of caterpillars in the high Himalayas. In a randomized, eight-week Korean study of 79 adults, supplementing with 1.7 grams of cordyceps extract daily led to a significant 38 percent increase in the activity of natural killer cells that protect against infection. It has been used traditionally to treat fatigue, sexual dysfunction, asthma, kidney problems, high blood pressure and weak hearts. Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) contains a compound called polysaccharide-K that stimulates the immune system. It also acts as a prebiotic, which promotes the health of the gut microbiome, a key player in immunity. A Harvard Medical School study of 22 healthy people found that taking 3,600 milligrams of polysaccharopeptide extracted from turkey tail mushrooms each day led to beneficial changes in gut bacteria and suppressed the growth of problematic E. coli and shigella bacteria. Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@ gmail.com.

IS H T E V O L FIND TRUE Try for FREE at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com December 2021

fit body

HOLIDAY ZEN

Stress-Free Fitness and Self-Care by Maya Whitman

espite our best efforts, holiday time can frazzle our nerves and snag us in an unhealthy loop of overindulgence. To combat holiday pressure, the Mayo Clinic suggests maintaining a regular exercise program and investing in me-time activities like meditation and deep breathing. Movement and simple self-care, even for a few minutes, can lower cortisol levels that often contribute to excessive food cravings. Walking, going for a run, lifting weights, or getting into the pool or onto the yoga mat can help us enjoy the season with less angst.

foto helin/AdobeStock.com

Cancelling Guilt, Staying Healthy

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

With simple strategies, enjoying the office party dessert table doesn’t have to get us off track. “One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself when reaching for a cookie is to be in full approval of eating it. Let your experience of eating it be clean, present and so free of resistance that you can really experience it,” says Maria Miller, a spiritual life coach in Oceanside, California. Stephanie Mansour, host of the weekly national PBS health and fitness show Step It Up with Steph, also opts for a no-stress approach, especially when it comes to working out. “When cortisol levels are through the roof, we crave fattening, salty or sweet foods. Studies have shown that people have a more positive body image just after five minutes of exercise,” says the Chicagobased wellness coach. “This mindset is huge when it comes to eating healthier and taming holiday cravings.” Bolstering neurotransmitters through good nutrition can take the edge off the to-do list or a gloomy winter day. “When

we fuel our bodies with a variety of whole foods, we are also supporting healthy brain function, which has a direct impact on our emotions,” says Teigan Draig, a life coach in Spencerville, Ohio. Draig suggests berries, citrus fruits, fresh fish, turkey, walnuts, almonds, avocados and eggs to boost serotonin and dopamine levels, “which improve mood and help to reduce the effects of stress and anxiety on the body.”

Prioritizing Self

Most of us are short on time, but committing to good health doesn’t require hours at the gym. “Many of my clients are looking for fast, simple workouts that they can squeeze in during the holidays,” says Mansour. “Set the timer for five minutes and get down on the floor to do ab exercises. Doing leg lifts, bicycle abs and crunches for five minutes is an excellent way to fire up the core.” She also suggests setting the morning alarm or going to sleep at night five minutes earlier to do some stretches in bed.

“If you’re cooking, you can do squats in the kitchen while a smoothie is blending or calf raises while stirring a pot on the stove.” For Miller, putting on some music and dancing in the living room is a sure way to get a boost. She is also a fan of guiltfree, unplugged intervals of shut-eye: “Five-to-25-minute power naps are a great way to rest and recharge with a very high return on your investment of time.” During the winter months, it can be easy to turn to screens for distraction and as a way to cope with the stress of the season. Miller reminds us to nourish our souls and get out in nature to “notice the way the weather impacts your body, the way it feels to draw in a breath and how you’re part of a constant exchange with life through each breath you take.”

Inhaling Peace

Conscious breathing makes the effects of workouts go further and halts the cascade of stress hormones. “Whatever fitness rou-

Winter Wisdom Tips From Stephanie Mansour: n If you know you’re going to be out for holiday cocktails and sweets, commit to eating an additional serving of greens, perhaps by putting extra greens in your lunch salad, eating sautéed spinach before you leave for the party or adding greens to your protein shake in the morning. n Set up a “self-care corner” in your home and stack it with motivational books, journals, candles and a cozy blanket. Designate this home sanctuary as a place you can go for peace, quiet and enjoyment without electronics. n My clients have enjoyed using meditation apps that focus on a topic. Insight Timer has meditations that focus on self-care, weight loss and sleep. I like the prayer app Hallow for people who are looking to improve their prayer life or do a meditation while praying.

tine you’re doing is fine, just always breathe through your nose. Mouth breathing triggers cortisol release,” says Ed Harrold, breathwork and performance coach in Draper, Utah, and author of Life with Breath. “When we slow the breath rate, we encourage a relaxation response. We can manage the release of cortisol by inhaling through the nose, slowly from the belly to the collarbone and exhaling slowly through the nose by gently drawing the belly back into the lower spine. This is called diaphragmatic breathing and is our proper breath, even during exercise.” For nature, winter is a time of repose from which we can take a cue and enjoy the moment. Draig muses, “Mindfulness requires us to be present in the here and now, rather than worrying about the to-do list or stressing over holiday finances.” Maya Whitman writes about natural health and living a more beautiful life. Connect at Ekstasis28@gmail.com.

WEB-EXCLUSIVE CONTENT at NAJax.com! This Month:

THE BEST BOOKS FOR KIDS

Gift Choices that Can Open Up Worlds

TOYLAND FOR POOCHES Choosing Safe Playthings a Dog Will Love

and More!

From Ed Harrold: n Practice diaphragmatic breathing while walking, then take it into whatever exercise routine you enjoy. If you feel the need to mouth-breathe, slow down and reestablish a steady rhythm of breath. n Use your breath as a tool to stay in the present moment; don’t place energy on outdated thought-forms. Be aware that you are exactly what the world needs right now, and the gifts you bring to the table are always big enough. December 2021

wise words

Thomas Moore on the

Art of Soulful Listening by Marlaina Donato

YOUR NEW HEALTH STORY STARTS HERE

Specialties include: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Parkinson’s Disease Dementia • Headache Disorders Neuropathies • Chronic Pain Fibromyalgia • Dizziness Stroke Prevention • Stress Depression • Fatigue • Memory Loss Tingling • Gut-Brain Issues

Megan Weigel, DNP, ARNP-c Advanced Practice Holistic Nurse MS Certified Nurse

Dr. Weigel is a Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years experience in neurology who brings a unique integrative and holistic approach to her patients and care.

Monday Mantras with Megan

Follow First Coast Integrative Medicine on FB & Instagram for more information!

14215 Spartina Court Jacksonville • FL

CALL TODAY! 904.543.3510

Online course begins

January 3rd • 2022

F l R S T C O A S T I N T E G R AT I V E M E D I C I N E . C O M 20

We need more therapeutic conversations in all areas of life, and my book is for the ordinary person, as well as the professional therapist. We could talk to each other with the intention of befriending and offering useful care. Medicine is in need of an injection of this therapeutic talking and listening to add soul and spirit to an otherwise materialistic approach to the human being.

What is soul therapy in modern times?

A holistic, heart-centered and evidence-based approach to care for people living with neurological conditions and symptoms.

Compassionate care to help you author a new health narrative and lead a happier, more fulfilling life.

What inspired you to write Soul Therapy?

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

The ancient Greeks wrote extensively about the soul. Their word was psyche, so it takes very little effort to see how psychotherapy is about caring for the soul. The ancients felt that the soul’s natural home is in the “underworld”, and soul therapy sees it the same way. We are not interested in causing behavior changes or finding explanations for current problems. These don’t go deep enough. They do not touch the underworld, or deep narratives and memories of a person. For example, if a person complains that he eats too much, then we might go deep and see if the underlying issue is a failure to nourish his life and person. We look for metaphors and layers of meaning. We don’t want change for the sake of change. We don’t necessarily expect a person to feel better or be better adjusted to life. We stay close to the symptom, like eating too much, and hope to see it fulfilled at a deeper level, truly nourishing your life.

What soul work is required of the helper to be able to address the needs of others?

The helper in soul therapy has to learn to observe carefully, and at a deep level, the narrative or story being lived out, often unconsciously, in a client. The arts, mythology, alchemy, dreams—these

photo by Simone Anne

homas Moore, New York Times bestselling author, Jungian-based psychotherapist, musician and former monk, has been an advocate for conscious living since authoring his first book, Care of the Soul: A Guide for Cultivating Depth and Sacredness in Everyday Life. Twenty-three books later, Moore breaks ground with his latest release, Soul Therapy: The Art and Craft of Caring Conversations, in which he invites therapists, psychiatrists, spiritual directors, ministers and caregivers to cultivate deeper connection based on soulful listening. His timeless wisdom inspires all of us to live from a state of spirituality and conscious wonder so that we might bridge the chasm between cultural, political and personal differences.

can all give hints about the deeper story being lived. The soul therapist does not give much advice, if any, and doesn’t try to figure a person out. He or she stays close to the symptoms to see what the pain and confusion are all about. A person gets to know better the desires and fears that motivate him, without judgment or agenda. You try to see where the soul might have been wounded or not cared for.

Why do you think there is a perceived increase in anxiety and depressive disorders?

Our underlying philosophy or way of seeing everything is based on quantified studies, brain and laboratory research and the need to explain and define everything. There is no room for mystery and its language, which is poetic and metaphorical. The soul suffers.

How can we truly listen to others and cultivate authentic presence?

Today we often debate rather than converse. We want to win arguments rather than gain deep insight. You listen well only when you find peace in yourself and give up the need to be always right.

(904) 829-4847 (HUGS) www.jaxhugs.com

Feeling the Healing Power of Hemp Holistic and Alternative Pain Management

CBD helps with Pain, Depression, Anxiety, Muscle Tension & More

One of Northeast Florida’s Largest Selection of Qualitv CBD Products for People and Pets Sublingual • Topical • Tinctures • Vape • Oil Dry Flower • Broad Spectrum • Full Spectrum and Isolate Products

Get the health benefits without the psychoactive effects with CBD

Now Carrying DELTA 8® Edibles, Vape Cartridges, and Flower Call about our Cannabis Grow Class so you can begin growing when laws change.

8622 Baymeadows Rd • Jacksonville (Behind McDonalds off Philips Hwy)

Access the Record of Your Soul’s Journey

AKASHIC RECORD CONSULTATIONS By Stephany “Stevie” Levine ARCI Trained Certified Consultant/Teacher Over 8 years of experience

Create Better Relationships

Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildFlowerLady.com.

Solve Challenges

For Appointments: Phone/In Person-Contact Me At: stephanylevine@ymail.com

904-545-2447

www.stevielevine.com

For additional information – www.akashicrecordconsultantsinternational.org

What gives you hope for humanity?

In spite of all our problems today, I am an optimist. Humanity is very slowly evolving into a more humane community of Earth beings. We have a long way to go. I see our young people today, many of them impatient to create a different kind of global culture, one that has the courage and vision to deal with our ecological crisis and create a peaceful political planet. They are not plagued with cynicism or despair. We can’t give up our idealism and surrender to pessimism. The world has always had deep troubles. The challenge should bring out all our creativity and passion for life.

Find Your Life Mission

Call and tell us your needs and get the help you deserve.

Get Your

MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD

FASTand EASY MARIJUANA HELPS WITH OVER

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Jacksonville

10695 Beach Blvd. (904) 299-5300

CALL AND TELL US YOUR NEEDS AND GET THE

HELP YOU DESERVE Orange Park

920 Blanding Blvd. #4 (904) 420-0044

PRE-CERTIFY BY

PHONE FROM

HOME

St. Augustine

2085 A1A S, Ste. 203 (904) 299-7373 December 2021

conscious eating

The Sweet Danger of Sugar ways to enjoy healthier holiday fare by Christy Ratliff

azurita/AdobeStock.com

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

hocolate Santas, decorated cookies and other sweet confections are ingrained in our holiday traditions, yet sugary food does little to actually make us feel merry and bright in the long run. A high-sugar diet increases the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, inflammation, weight gain and weight-related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It can also contribute to tooth decay and acne. “Most high-sugar foods are ‘treats’ and are not intended to be high in nutrition or consumed instead of healthier foods,” says Shelley Maniscalco, registered dietitian and CEO of the consulting firm Nutrition on Demand, in Arlington, Virginia. “When we have too many foods that are what we call calorie-dense versus nutrient-dense, we run the risk of displacing healthier foods, and, therefore, under-consuming key nutrients.” This can impact mental health and impair the body’s ability to manage stress. “When we eat nutritious foods, and our gut is healthy, we obtain necessary nutrients to create neurotransmitters, which are key to optimal mental health,” explains Maggie Roney, a licensed counselor and certified functional medicine provider in Wylie, Texas. “There’s mood-stabilizing serotonin, which is a precursor for melatonin, needed for sleep; dopamine, involved in pleasure, focus and motivation; and GABA, which provides a calming effect that can help with stress and anxiety. All of these require amino acids, zinc, iron, vitamin D, magnesium, copper and B vitamins.” In moderation, sugar is not necessarily detrimental to our health and well-being, but differentiating between naturally occurring sugar and added sugar is key to finding a middle ground. “New changes in the food label allow consumers to more easily identify sources of sugar in foods,” Maniscalco says. “Many healthy foods naturally contain sugars, such as fructose in fruits and lactose in dairy products. These natural sugars don’t need to be avoided. When checking the label, look for amounts of added sugars and choose the options that have less.” Foods and beverages with added sugars are now required to list the number of grams and percent daily value for added sugars on the nutrition facts label. For example, a container of yogurt with fruit on the bottom might list total sugars at 15 grams (g), including 7 g of added sugar, which means 8 g of naturally occurring sugars.

Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them. –Ricardo Díaz In a society long obsessed with counting calories, we may assume we’re making smart choices with low-fat, non-fat, reduced calorie or light versions of grocery items. But, the amount of added sugar is actually higher in low calorie versions of a wide variety of foods because sugar is used to compensate for the loss of flavor from fat. “Sugar tastes good and balances out other flavors, so many foods that we wouldn’t consider sweet have added sugars,” says Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., bariatric program manager and senior research investigator at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Common products include pasta sauce, cereal and salad dressing. Reading food labels looking specifically for added sugars is key to finding these foods.” “Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them,” adds Ricardo Díaz, chef and registered dietitian nutritionist at the

New York-based nonprofit Wellness in the Schools, which works to improve nutrition in school lunches. “Many savory or salty foods tend to have added sugars, such as tortilla chips, popcorn, jerky and frozen prepared foods. Check your labels and compare between products on the supermarket shelves to find the healthiest pick for you and your loved ones.” “Often, we think of eating in ‘all or nothing’ terms. When we cut out foods we enjoy, it often backfires and we end up overeating them in the end when our willpower runs out,” Maniscaclo says. “I would really encourage mindfulness in eating so that individuals can enjoy treats in moderation and feel satisfied by them so that there’s less need to over consume. Also, being physically active year-round is a great habit to get into and can create more space in the diet for treats.” As we implement these small but significant low-sugar strategies, we’ll be rewarded with better physical and emotional health all year long. That’s something to celebrate. Christy Ratliff is a professional health and wellness writer based in Central Florida.

Tips to Eat Less Sugar

brent hofacker/AdobeStock.com

Shelley Maniscalco, MPH, RD: Eat fruit. Most are naturally sweet and provide healthy nutrients without a lot of calories. As an added bonus, the fiber and water content in fruit helps with feeling satiated. Add spices and fresh herbs. Studies show that adding them enhances flavor, and it also lowers the use of such unhealthy nutrients as added sugars, sodium and saturated fats. Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., RD: Choose plain yogurt, as it contains no added sugar. Top it with fresh fruit, cinnamon or nuts. Choose yogurt that contains live and active cultures, as these promote gut health and boost immunity.

maxim khytra/AdobeStock.com

Nearly a quarter of added sugars consumed come from sugar-sweetened beverages such as sodas and fruit drinks, even more than from desserts and sweets. A simple way of reducing added sugar is reducing intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. Three approaches are: setting a frequency goal (limit to x times per week); setting a portion goal (limit to x ounces per day); or setting a substitution goal (replace sugarsweetened beverages with sugar-free options). Jennifer Martin-Biggers, Ph.D., RDN: To reduce sugar intake, as with any other new habit or behavior change, it’s important to set manageable goals and set new ones as you go. Another way to support dietary changes is through supplementation. The mineral chromium, in particular in the form of chromium picolinate, has been shown in clinical studies to reduce food cravings. ronstik/AdobeStock.com

marilyn barbone/AdobeStock.com

Chef and dietitian nutritionist Ricardo Díaz: Swap out fruit juice cocktails and fruit juice concentrates for whole fruits and 100 percent fruit juice. Fruit beverages rely on added sugar to provide much of their sweetness. Choose whole grains over enriched grains. Include a variety of whole grains in your diet, such as oats, brown rice or whole-wheat pastas and breads. To maximize fiber intake, pick products labeled “100% Whole Grains” over labels stating “Whole Grains” or “Multigrain”. Make your own baked goods. Besides controlling the amount of sugar in your treats, baking at home is a great way to get your youngest family members involved in cooking.

Film Suggestion: Watch That Sugar Film, a 2014 Australian documentary/drama directed by Damon Gameau at WatchDocumentaries.com/ that-sugar-film. According to New York Times film critic Daniel M. Gold, “The food-doc shelf is crowded with good-for-you movies, including Fed Up, Fast Food Nation, Food Inc. and, yes, Super Size Me. That Sugar Film is a worthy addition, entertaining while informing.” December 2021

Low- or No-Sugar Holiday Treats Baklava Cookie Cups 2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour 1 tsp orange zest ½ tsp ground cardamom ¼ tsp salt 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature ¾ cup honey 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

photo provided by allrecipes.com

filling and syrup:

½ cup pistachios, chopped ½ cup honey 3 Tbsp water 2 tsp orange juice 4 green cardamom pods, crushed 1 cinnamon stick

Heat oven to 350° F and grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, orange zest, cardamom and salt. In the bowl of a standing mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and honey for about 1-2 minutes. (The mix will look a little curdled at this point and that’s fine; scrape down the sides.) Beat in the eggs, then the vanilla. Mix in the flour in

two parts. Using a cookie scoop, scoop the dough into the prepared muffin tin and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven; let sit for about 3-4 minutes before using a dowel to carefully press down in the center of each cookie to make a well. Let the cookies cool for about 15 minutes in the tin before removing to a cooling rack to cool completely. In a small saucepan over medium heat, prepare the syrup by combining the honey, water, orange juice, cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer and remove from the heat. Drizzle a small amount in the bottom of each cookie cup and then fill with the chopped pistachios. Drizzle more syrup on top of the filled cookie cups. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week. Courtesy of the National Honey Board. For more information, visit Honey.com.

Baked Apples

Preheat oven to 375° F. Wash apples. Using an apple corer, remove cores and leave ½ inch of the bottom of each apple. (If using a paring knife, just cut the center core out fully.) Make the hole ¾-inch wide, and remove the seeds using a spoon. Place the cored apples in an 8-inch-by 8-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle lemon juice over apples to prevent browning. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, chopped nuts and raisins or another dried fruit. Stuff each apple with the filling mixture. Top with a dot of butter (about ½ to ¾ tsp per apple). Add boiling water to baking pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes until tender, but not mushy. Remove baked apples from the 24

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

oven, and baste apples several times with the juice from the pan. (Apples can be baked in a muffin tin. Place muffin liners into the muffin tins, and place cored apples inside.) Chef ’s Note: Personalize the baked apples with seasonal fillings and spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom or pumpkin pie spice. For a twist, try a savory, fresh herb like rosemary or thyme. Courtesy of Wellness in the Schools. For more information, visit WellnessInThe Schools.org. roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

4 large Granny Smith baking apples Juice of one lemon (about ¼ cup) 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup chopped pecans or another nut of choice ¼ cup raisins or another dried fruit of choice 1 tsp butter ¾ cup boiling water

A Dietician’s Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark This dark chocolate bark recipe is holidaythemed with red, white and green toppings. Other topping options include almonds, dried fruit, sunflower, pumpkin or hemp seeds or granola.

Pour melted chocolate onto the prepared baking tray. Spread to ⅛-inch thickness. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle with dried cranberries, chopped pistachios and shredded coconut. To set, place tray in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes or in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. Break the bark into pieces and serve. Store extra pieces at room temperature in an airtight container.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Create a double boiler by placing a saucepan filled with a few inches of water and topped with a glass bowl over medium heat. Bring the water to a boil. Add two thirds of the chocolate and let melt, stirring until smooth. Take off the heat and stir in the remaining chocolate.

Courtesy of Jessica Bippen, MS, RD. For more information, visit HUMNutrition.com/blog. kolesnikovserg/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

6 oz dark chocolate ¼ cup raw pistachios ¼ cup dried cranberries 2 Tbsp shredded coconut

Honey Lavender Cookies This recipe was developed after lavender was accidentally weeded from the garden. These cookies are made with honey and whole-wheat flour.

Health & Wellness Issue

24 cookies

½ cup butter, softened ½ cup honey 1 egg 1 Tbsp lavender flowers 2 cups whole-wheat flour

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Beat butter in a bowl with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat honey, egg and lavender into the creamed butter until incorporated.

Stir flour, ½ cup at a time, into butter mixture until blended. Drop spoonful of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven until cookies are browned on the bottom, about 15 minutes. Courtesy of Sue B. For more information, visit AllRecipes.com.

roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

yield: about

coming in january

December 2021

green living

Greening the Holidays How to Celebrate Sustainably

tanyajoy/AdobeStock.com

by Sandra Yeyati

ith every record-setting storm and catastrophic fire, more people are realizing that we are embroiled in a climate crisis. Consider this holiday season as an opportunity not just to make sustainable choices, but also to take strategic action that positively impacts the planet and inspires friends and family to join the environmental cause. Whether that means modifications to the holiday dinner, eco-friendly decorating tactics or responsible gifting, every environmental choice can be a teaching moment or conversation starter. Together, we can make a difference.

Eco-Friendly Holiday Dinner

Growing fruits and vegetables is generally kinder to the Earth than the industrialized production of meat, which pollutes the environment and mistreats animals. Hosting a vegetarian holiday feast with locally sourced, organic produce is a great way to support regenerative farming systems, slash transportation emissions and introduce guests to new culinary traditions. If meat is a must, opt for sustainably wild-caught salmon or shrimp and pastured, organic turkey or chicken over beef, as cow production leads to significant methane emissions. To conserve energy, use the oven or stove sparingly, opting instead for recipes that employ crockpots, air fryers, pressure cookers, outdoor barbecues or the microwave. For both health and environmental reasons, gently encourage smaller meat portions and fill 26

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

the plate with scrumptious side dishes. After the party, leftovers can be sent home with guests, turned into next-day lunches and soups or frozen for later use. Compost scraps to keep them out of the landfill.

Responsible Gift Wrapping

Eliminating wrapping paper, bows, ribbons and greeting cards from the holiday equation is a great zero-waste lifestyle choice. Gifts can just as easily be wrapped in fabric, scarves and cloth napkins, or presented inside a reusable shopping bag. Another alternative is to use wrapping materials and greeting cards that are biodegradable, from recycled origins or certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (fsc. org) to ensure they did not contribute to deforestation. Avoid papers with glitter, foil

and other decorations that may contain nonbiodegradable, petroleum-based elements. Glitter is usually made from plastic, contributing to the microplastics problem. When recycling, remove tape, bows and ribbons.

butterflies and other pollinators—greenthumb gifts like herb planters, wildflower seed packets, garden tools, utility gloves and vegetable-growing instruction books.

Earth-Friendly Holiday Decorations

These reusable gifts make it easy and fun for recipients to be kind to the planet year-round by reducing our devastating dependence on single-use, nonbiodegradable plastic that pollutes the environment and harms aquatic wildlife.

The most eco-friendly Christmas decoration is a potted, living tree that can be decorated and exhibited indoors during the holidays and planted in the garden afterwards. A mini-rosemary tree is also a fragrant tabletop alternative. Opt for LED string lights, which use a fraction of the energy that traditional lights require. With the help of online instructional videos, families can come together to craft decorations out of biodegradable, recycled and consumable materials, including tree ornaments made of reclaimed wood or soda can tabs; garlands of popcorn, dried fruit slices or cinnamon sticks; wreaths and centerpieces studded with pine cones, herb branches and flowers from the garden; and candles made with essential oils and soy wax. The home will smell festive, fresh and healthful.

Thoughtful, LifeAffirming Gifts

Environmentally responsible holiday shopping takes many forms. Some people pledge to buy nothing during Christmas and instead donate their holiday budgets to families in need. Others set out to buy gifts they know the recipient wants or needs to avoid waste. They shop at local, small businesses and choose durable, repurposed, easily repairable and upcycled items. Thoughtful gifts that affirm a commitment to the planet are electric bicycles and comfortable hiking shoes to encourage slow transportation and healing walks in nature; solar-powered devices and chargers in support of renewable energy; consumable items and foods that won’t clutter the home or landfill; services and experiences that don’t need to be gift wrapped; and donations to environmental charities that are meaningful to the recipient. Consider gifts that encourage loved ones to grow their own fruits, vegetables and herbs; plant shade trees in their backyards; and nurture flowering plants that support bees,

Reusable Gifts that Ditch the Plastic

n Straws made of stainless steel, organic bamboo, silicone, biodegradable paper or glass n Water bottles and insulated containers made of stainless steel or glass n Food bags, wraps and bowl covers made of beeswax, silicone, cotton or canvas n Stainless steel plates and bamboo utensils for sustainable picnicking n Zero-waste shampoo, conditioner and body wash bars Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

YOUR ONE TRUSTED GLOBAL ONLINE DESTINATION FOR

Regenerative Whole Health™ Benefits 24/7 ACCESS KnoWEwell is a One-Of-A-Kind Platform that centralizes today’s trusted global knowledge, resources and community to Prevent and Address the Root Causes of Chronic Diseases.

Find best-matched Vetted Practitioners. Learn from Top Educators and Experts. Access Evidence-Based Resources. Make Meaningful Connections in Community Topic Groups. Explore Funding Help for Outof-Pocket Costs of Practitioner

Services.

Invest in Your Optimal Health & Well-Being.

Visit KnoWEwell.com Today and receive 50% Off your first year.

Practitioners Apply: NAPUB0221P | Individuals Apply: NAPUB0221

December 2021

calendar of events

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Healthy Holiday Dinner – 5-7pm. Restorative Health Instructor Amanda Johns, will demonstrate how easy it is to create simple plant-based meals for the holidays. This pre-paid class will include helpful food preparation tips, a booklet, and a delicious four-course holiday menu: Ginger Bread Cookies, Lemon Cranberry Cookies, Spinach Artichoke Salad, and Creamy Potatoes Un-Bacon Soup. $55. Seating is limited. Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center, 9957 Moorings Dr, Ste 403, Jacksonville. 904-268-6568. Info/location: 904 994-4802 or AmandaJHWC@yahoo.com.

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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Be the Light of Peace through the Holiday Season – 6:30-7:30pm. Also Dec 8 & 15. Enjoy freedom from the burdens you have been carrying, be inspired by self-care options, explore the yoga of gift-giving and receiving, and vision for the best year to come. Online Zoom link will be sent upon registering. 941-544-7756. Register: DeLuna@ DeLunaCoaching.com. DeLunaCoaching.com.

Twin Hearts Meditation – 6-7pm. The phases of the meditation are physical exercise, invoking divine blessings, relaxation/cleansing and energizing, selfintrospection, and inner reflection, activating heart chakra and crown chakra, achieving illumination, releasing excess energy, and expression of gratitude. Free. 4236 St. Johns Ave. 904-381-8686 or SeventhWonder.com/events/.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by Videoconference – Noon. All the information you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register/info: 904-3759517 or Jacksonville@TM.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4

Food Labeling 101 – 6-7pm. There is so much advice out there on what is and what is not considered healthy food. During this lecture, discover the food manufacturing companies’ deceptive secrets, allowing unhealthy food to appear healthy. In addition, the antidote, the secrets to reading food labels. Free. Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center, 9957 Moorings Dr, Ste 403, Jacksonville. Register/info: 904 268-6568.

Reiki Level I and II – Dec 4-5. 10am-6pm, Sat; 10am-4pm, Sun. The two-day course will include the history of Dr. Mikao Usui, attunements and an understanding of energy healing. $200. 4236 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville. 904-381-8686 or SeventhWonder.com/events/.

Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by Videoconference – 6:30pm. All the information you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register/info: 904-3759517 or Jacksonville@TM.org.

This CHRISTMAS

I PLEDGE

Shop SMALL Eat LOCAL

•

Spend LOCAL

Enjoy LOCAL

and support the local businesses that support me & my community

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

Pranayama and Meditation – 10-11am. 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. Held outside if weather permits. Bring your own mat and accessories. $15. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. Register: 904-3818686 or Seventh-Wonder.com/events. Yoga Nidra – 11:15am-12:15pm. Guided meditation. Nidra is a Sanskrit term for sleep. In yoga it is a meditation practice that induces a state of deep, but conscious relaxation. The goal is to achieve a state of samadhi (intense concentration), enlightenment, or bliss. Held outside if weather permits. Bring your own mat and accessories. $15. Seventh Wonder Holistic Spa, 4236 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville. Register: 904-381-8686 or SeventhWonder.com/events.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16 Special Holiday Remembrance Class – 1-3:30pm or 7-9:30pm. In person. Call for location/details. $35. International Foundation for Spiritual Knowledge: ifsk.org or 407-247-7823. Spirit’s Calling Zoom Chat – 6:30pm. Spirit is loudly calling: sending messages, inspiring you for more with physical urges, a longing, energy surges or a high-pitched buzz. Join Rev. Judi Weaver for this new monthly gathering of like-minded souls as we unite to support our own community and understanding of what is happening to you and around you. Learn how to tap into these beautiful energies for personal guidance and growth. $25. Register: SpiritualServices.online. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev. Judi.Weaver@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by Videoconference – 1pm. All the information you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Postell Market, Casino Bldg, 530 Beachview Dr (by Neptune Park), Rm 112, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. Register/info: 904-375-9517 or Jacksonville@TM.org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 Vegan Cooking Class – 4-6pm. Join spa owner Falli Shah and her husband Sunny Shah for a vegan, Indian cooking class. This delicious event includes the meal that is freshly prepared in front of you. The class will be held on a lovely outdoor deck overlooking the garden. $45. 4236 St. Johns, Ave. 904-381-8686 or Seventh-Wonder.com/events/.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21

ongoing events

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service – 7pm. All are welcome to join in-person, on Facebook Live or YouTube Channel. Find the peace, calm and oneness you desire as we celebrate the light of Christ on Christmas Eve with the Unity Candle Lighting Service. Love offering. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 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 Heart4Souls. Info: 386-503-4930. Rev.Judi.Weaver@ gmail.com or SpiritualServices.online.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Burning Bowl Service – 7pm. Join in-person, on Facebook Live or YouTube Channel for a time of release and renewal. All are welcome. Love offering. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

plan ahead SUNDAY, JANUARY 2 White Stone Ceremony – 10:30am. All are welcome. Join in-person, on Facebook Live or YouTube Channel to celebrate a New Year, a new you, and a new spiritual name that will support you on your ‘dreams come true’ journey. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 6 Transcendental Meditation Introductory Talk by Videoconference – 6:30pm. All the information you need to make an informed decision about learning this highly effective technique for reducing stress and improving health. Free. Register/info: 904-3759517 or Jacksonville@TM.org.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 23 Unity Basics – Noon. What is Unity? What do we believe? How long has Unity been around? Join Rev. Yvonne McAndrew as we discover Unity. All are welcome. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St. Johns. 904-287-1505 UnityInJax.com.

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

wednesday Wednesday Pier Farmers Market – 8am12:30pm. Oceanfront shopping at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park. Approximately 60-80 vendors can be found at the market selling locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, arts, crafts and more. Free. 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Bch. 904-315-0952. Spiritual Enrichment Classes – 7pm. Visit the website for class information. Unity Church for Creative Living, 2777 Race Track Rd, St Johns. 904-287-1505. UnityInJax.com. Music by the Sea – Thru Sept 1. 7-8:50pm. This annual summer music and food celebration features local bands and performers paired with local food trucks to entertain visitors. A different band will be featured each week, along with a food truck to offer fresh, tasty, food. Guests are welcome to bring coolers and picnic baskets. Chairs and bug spray are encouraged. Free. St. Augustine Beach Pier, 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Bch. 904-347-8007.

thursday Farmers Market – 5-8pm. Vendors offer locally grown produce as well as homemade and handmade products. Yamo Italian and Captain Scallywag's food truck are onsite offering local cuisine as well as two other food trucks, which rotate each week. Local musicians provide entertainment throughout the evening. Free. The Artisan Market Coconut Barrel, 3175 US 1 South, St. Augustine.

Concerts in the Plaza – 7-9pm. Bring a chair or blanket to relax on the plaza lawn and enjoy summer evenings filled with music in the heart of historic St. Augustine. Picnic dinners are allowed, but alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the Plaza. Gazebo of St. Augustine's historic Plaza de la Constitución (between Cathedral and King Streets) Downtown St. Augustine. 904- 825-1004.

friday First Friday Garden Walk – 10am. Join a Ranger the first Friday of every month for a garden walk. No registration required. Walk included with park entry fee of $5 per vehicle. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. Info: WashingtonOaks.org.

saturday The St. Augustine Ampitheatre Farmers Market – 8:30am-12:30pm. Shop more than 100 tents loaded with local produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade arts and crafts and more. Admission into the market is free. 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine. 904-315-9252.

Make your community a little GREENER … Support our advertisers

For every $100 spent in locally owned business, $68 returns to the community source: the350project.net

December 2021

community resource guide FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

ACUPUNCTURE

JACKSONVILLE HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

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

Dr Jon Repole, DC, CFMP 9957 Moorings Dr, Ste 403 Jacksonville (Mandarin) 904-268-6568 • DrRepole.com

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 5.

CBD HYDROPONIC UNIQUE GOODS

8622 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville 904-829-4847 • JaxHugs.com 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, page 21.

ENERGY HEALING

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 14.

GROCERY NATIVE SUN

1585 3rd St North, Jacksonville Beach 904-853-5497 NativeSunJax.com J a x B e a c h ’s community organic grocer, local food and essential items. Order online for curbside p/u.

HERBS

HEALING ENERGY BY TED

Ted Kostek 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.

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 9.

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.

Jacksonville / St. Augustine

NAJax.com

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 20.

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 5.

CARING PALMS HEALING ARTS

Brian Dean, LMT MA36835 MM41272 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 10.

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 5.

MONTHLY PLANNER MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD 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 Get your medical marijuana card and pre-certify by phone. Medical marijuana treats more than 250 medical conditions such as: chronic pain, PTSD, cancer, seizures, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, MS, HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s, IBS, glaucoma, fibromyalgia, lupus and more. See ad, page 21.

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 7.

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.

SPIRITUAL CENTERS UNITY CHURCH FOR CREATIVE LIVING IN ST JOHNS 2777 Race Track Rd, St Johns 904-287-1505 • UnityInJax.com

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.

health & wellness

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 15.

SPIRITUAL COACH DELUNA – GIFTS FROM THE BELOVED 941-544-7756 DeLunaCoaching.com Serving North Florida & Virtual

Spiritual mentoring, Reiki, sacred sound with harp, flutes, Tibetan bowls. 1:1, groups and custom downloads. Certified Dream Builder Coach, Universal Life Minister, certified music practitioner. New course “The Illuminated Journey” starting soon.

FEBRUARY

heart-centered living

STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION LAUREE MORETTO

Soft Tissue Specialist 321-271-1678 Flagler & Daytona Bch LaureeMoretto.com 90% of pain is linked to structural misalignment. Your pain is really just a symptom. My work addresses the cause to give you lasting relief. Get your life back now. MA20965.

MARCH

food & nutrition

YOGA

PSYCHIC CHANNEL REV JUDI WEAVER

JANUARY

YOGA DEN

learn about marketing opportunities at:

386-736-3838

December 2021

Merry Christmas Give the gift of health! Call (904) 363-3374 to make your appointment.

Gift card applicable to health services only at Health by Design Florida and not redeemable for cash.

Raffle entry for every $50 purchase!

Check out our

Healthy Holiday Recipe Swaps! www.healthbydesignfl.com/recipes

Avoid the Guesswork, the Wait and See and the Trial and Error. Get to the Root Cause with Individualized Care. There is Hope, Your Body Heals!

904-363-3374 See our website for upcoming Events:

HealthByDesignFL.com FREE educational events held every month. healthbydesignfl.com/our-events

December 2021 Jacksonville St. Augustine Natural Awakenings Magazine

Articles inside

CirCles of Healing

tHe Best Books for kiDs

HoliDaY Zen