Natural Awakenings Charlotte - December 2023 Issue by Shannon

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H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | H E A LT H Y P L A N E T

Deepak Chopra

on the Quantum Body

The Holiday Hostess Survival Guide How to Meet Everyone’s Dietary Needs

CHARLOTTE EDITION | them AWAKENINGCHARLOTTE.COM Be sure to let our advertisers know you found in

| DECEMBER 2023

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Scalar Health Enhancement Center Featuring the Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) (A non-profit project of the Free Spirit Humanitarian Church) Located in Kannapolis, NC

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The closest thing to Med-Bed technology currently available! 2

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Disclaimer: The materials and information provided here and on our site are for informational purposes only and are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of a health or other problem or as a substitute for consulting your chosen health professional. Users are advised to conduct their own due diligence.

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December 2023

HOLIDAY GIFTS for the Safety Inclined (OR Accident Prone)

FIRST AID KITS PET & SPORT: $16 ALL PURPOSE: $30

Scouts Fundraiser

Delivery to Charlotte Area Addresses

call/text 704-499-3327

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Are You Looking For A HEALTHY NATURAL Smile? We Care for More than Just Your Teeth…. • 3D Digital Dentistry • Biocompatible Implants • Healthy Start • Mercury Safe Removal • Myofunctional Therapy • Ozone Therapy • PRF - (Platelet Rich Fibrin) • Preventative Dentistry • Tongue & Lip Tie Release

Failing Amalgams (silver fillings) are removed using safe accredited protective protocols. All of our crowns, bridges, and veneers are made in-house with CAD/CAM computer milled technology.

IAOMT Accredited Mercury Safe Removal Biological/Holistic Family Dentistry in a Caring Relaxed Environment • 1000 Copperfield Blvd, Ste 160, Concord • 3111 Springbank Ln, Ste F1, Charlotte

Accepting New Patients! 704-782-0797

Dr. John Kempter

Kempter Dentistry As true Biological/Holistic Dentists, we combine modern technology & safe protection protocols with advanced knowledge of biological dentistry

Dr. Eric Kempter

www.KempterDentistry.com

The Healing Power of Oxygen Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a safe and non-invasive therapy that enhances the body’s natural healing process, stimulates stem cell production and strengthens the immune system

Effective Treatment for Both Insurance & Noninsurance Covered Conditions: • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) • Multiple Sclerosis (MS) • Lyme Disease • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Autism • Fibromyalgia • Ulcerative Colitis • Diabetic wounds • Inflammatory Bowel Disease • Radiation injury • Anti-Aging • Concussion • Stroke • Chrohn’s Disease • Sports Injury • Long COVID During your session you can: watch a movie, listen to music, sleep, meditate, or just plain relax Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

Get Started Today! Call to speak with our neurologist

(704) 471-4100

Nirvana Hyperbaric Institute • 146 Medical Park Rd, Suite 110 Mooresville, NC 28117• NirvanaHbo.com December 2023

Give the Gift of Health!

Contents 14 TAKING CHARGE OF THE FITNESS JOURNEY

How to Find Motivation in 2024

18 THE GRACE OF GIVING

We proudly support local suppliers! BUY LOCAL!

• One of the areas largest suppliers of wellness and health and beauty aid products

I-85

AND RECEIVING

Healing Through Generosity

• Staff is available for educational opportunities • Wide selection of gifts for the holiday season!

I-85

S NEW HOPE

ARMSTRONG PARK DR

ORGANIC MARKETPLACE

ROBINWOOD

on the Quantum Body and Achieving Peace

24 HOLIDAY PARTIES

HWY 74 EAST GARRISON

22 DEEPAK CHOPRA

1012 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054

704.864.0605 www.organicmarketplacenc.com

FOR EVERY DIET

How to Plan an Inclusive and Safe Feast

28 EXPLORING

INTERMITTENT FASTING

Tips and Benefits for Improved Health

30 STAY TUNED WITH GOOD VIBRATIONS

Sound Healing in the Charlotte Area

DEPARTMENTS 9 news briefs 22 wise words 9 kudos 24 conscious eating 11 global briefs 28 healing ways 12 health briefs 32 resource guide 13 local health briefs 35 gaston county 14 fit body natural guide 16 wipe out waste column 35 classifieds

DIRECTORY

Find local businesses with ease at AwakeningCharlotte.com/businesses 6

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Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

18 28

Advanced medicine made personal

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24/7 physician access | personalized wellness plans | preventative health care

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 704-499-3327 or email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com. Deadline for ads: the 9th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@ AwakeningCharlotte.com. Deadline for editorial: the 9th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events on AwakeningCharlotte.com. NATIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-206-2000. For franchising opportunities call 239-206-2000 or email Natural Awakenings@KnoWEwell.com. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

(980) 294-4937 | WellcomeMD.com 8035 Providence Road, Suite 315 150 Fairview Road, Suite 325 Charlotte, NC 28277 Mooresville, NC 28117 December 2023

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

CHARLOTTE EDITION PUBLISHER Shannon McKenzie DESIGN & PRODUCTION Patrick Floresca AD DESIGN Helene Leininger

letter from publisher

Hitting the Holiday Brakes

ow is about the time when I wonder how the year went by so quickly, and why the holidays always come at me like a freight train with no brakes. How, once again,

they’re here and I’m not prepared for them. EDITORIAL Jane Aylward Allison Gorman The difference this year is I don’t feel like getting stressed and Randy Kambic working through a daily to-do list that ends with fewer check Martin Miron

CONTACT US P.O. Box 456 Cornelius, NC 28031 Ph: 704-499-3327 • Fax: 866-632-9118 AwakeningCharlotte.com Publisher@AwakeningCharlotte.com Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com

marks and more to dos. Nope, I want to slow down and do less. I want to think about what’s truly important and focus on accomplishing those things and let a lot of other things go. Like this letter, for example—I’m OK with it being shorter than usual. This is a new feeling for me. It feels good, and I hope it lasts. Wishing you a happy and relaxing holiday free of an excessive to-do list,

SUBSCRIPTIONS Free subscriptions are available for our digital issue by emailing Publisher@AwakeningCharlotte.com

Shannon

NATIONAL TEAM

Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors Natural Awakenings throughout the area.

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor/Proofreader Melanie Rankin Layout 13 Moons Publishing National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

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HeartTreeCanva_kevron2001/GettyImages © 2023 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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.

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Thank you!

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Please consider support these major distributors shopping there and pick up the magazine each mo from one of the racks. Thank you!

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news briefs

Wood Furniture Scorecard Rates Responsible Business Practices

ast month, The Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) and The National Wildlife Federation released the 2023 Wood Furniture Scorecard, a joint initiative that assesses North American furniture retailers on their woodsourcing policies. The sixth annual program encourages furniture retailers to implement responsible wood-sourcing practices through their complex supply chains. Top- and high-scoring retailers are requesting more documentation from their vendors including where the wood comes from, chemical inputs and social equity aspects regarding conditions of the manufacturing facility. These companies are searching for more certified or reclaimed wood vendors than those with lower scores. The program “was designed to move the proverbial needle in an industry that has been a major contributor to illegal wood sourcing and deforestation,” explains SFC Executive Director Scarlette Tapp, adding it’s “a tool that helps push the industry from the inside, as well as from the outside through consumer awareness. The furniture-buying public increasingly wants to know about the origins of their furniture.” The nonprofit Sustainable Furnishings Council, located in North Carolina, is the leading sustainability resource center for the home furnishings industry, focusing on suppliers, manufacturers and retailers of interior furnishings, and the designers that specify them. The mission of the National Wildlife Federation, America’s largest conservation organization with 52 state and territorial affiliates and 6-million-plus members and supporters nationwide, is to unite all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in our rapidly changing world. View the 2023 Wood Furniture Scorecard at FurnitureScorecard.nwf.org. Also visit SustainableFurnishings.org and NWF.org.

Susan Reynolds Makes Her 2024 Predictions at HeartLight Spiritual Center

strologer, intuitive, spiritual healer and teacher, Susan Reynolds, will offer her predictions for 2024 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on January 14 at the HeartLight Spiritual Center, in Charlotte. Along with presenting what she sees ahead for our nation, including in politics, economy and celebrities along with worldwide events, she will provide a brief overview of each astrological sign and what to expect for this year in our personal lives. Reynolds has brought her unique style of astrology reading— combining the mystical and practical, psychic skills and astrological knowledge—to many national and international clients for the Susan Reynolds last 40 years. In lectures, workshops and classes, she shares her joy of learning with her students, making spiritual subjects come alive. She has been featured on WCCB News, has had her own radio show and is a founding member and past president of The Council of Esoteric Professionals. The HeartLight Spiritual Center is a spirit-guided, heart-centered, Christ-conscious, loving community transforming the world by allowing the heart-light presence of God to shine through us as us. They honor everyone on their spiritual journey. Cost: $30. Location: 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. For more information or to purchase tickets, leave message at 704-599-1180, email Shine@HeartLightCharlotte.org or visit HeartLightCharlotte.org. Also visit ExploreAstrology.com. See CRG, page 35. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

kudos

hole Pet Veterinary Hospitals, owned by Nicole Sheehan, DVM, and Carrie Uehlein, DVM, won both the 2023 Normy Award as Best Veterinarian in Lake Norman, presented by the Lake Norman Media Group, along with the 2023 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave Award. With locations in Lake Norman, North Charlotte, South Charlotte and Wilmington, they provide comprehensive care to all of the Greater Charlotte area as well as the North Carolina beaches. Whole Pet Veterinary Hospitals are full-service integrative facilities that offer advanced medicine, surgery and dentistry for dogs, cats, and exotics patients, along with a full array of alternatives, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, detoxification, holistic nutrition, chiropractic, vitamin C therapy, ozone, laser, physical therapy and more. The addition of the South Charlotte office ensures that all of the Greater Charlotte area now has access to true holistic and integrative care for their pets. Pet owners can experience true award-winning care and service from empathetic, compassionate and skilled veterinary professionals.

Locations and more information: 445 S. Main St., Ste. 120, Davidson, 704765-1171, DavidsonVet.com; 3605 Mt Holly-Huntersville Rd, Charlotte, 704368-1100, WholePet-MountainIsland.com; 8316 Pineville-Matthews Road, Ste. 805, Charlotte, 704-919-0405, WholePet-SouthCharlotte.com; and 5333 Oleander Dr., Wilmington, 910444-0420, WholePet-Wilmington.com. See ad, page 2. December 2023

news briefs

Light House Spiritual Center Presents Intueri Online Program

Unity of Charlotte to Host Burning Bowl Ceremony

ev. Kendall Heath of Light House Spiritual Center is presenting “Intueri: Seeing With The Soul,” a 6-month certification program live on Zoom from 2 to 5 p.m. beginning on January 6, 2024, and continuing every other Saturday through June. It is an experiential group immersion for participants to thoroughly understand the landscape of intuitive awakening and reconnecting with intuition, the primary sense of the soul, so they can live in alignment with their deepest purpose, connectivity and highest good and trust in themselves to help others do the same. “This is the most immersive and practical certification program we have ever offered so that people can make a difference doing meaningful work in the fields of intuitive healing/helping,” says Heath, the founder and director of the Center, which has been serving the spiritual community in the Lake Norman/Charlotte areas for nearly seven years. In addition to being the Interfaith/Interspiritual Minister for the Sunday services at Light House Fellowship and a Spiritual Counselor who focuses on teaching and facilitating spiritual/psychospiritual dialogue and discovery, she has been a psychic medium for 25 years. She now sees clients regionally, nationally and internationally. For more information, to receive Zoom links for the interest sessions or to register, email info@LightHouseSpiritualCenter.com or visit tinyurl.com/INTUERI. Also see LightHouseSpiritualCenter.com. See ad, page 25.

Mama Bessie’s Place Hosts Doorbuster Events

ama Bessie’s Place, in Charlotte, will host doorbuster events from noon to 1 p.m. on each Saturday this month with savings on a wide selection of metaphysical, inspirational and spiritual awareness gifts and items honoring such holiday traditions as Hanukkah, Yule Winter Solstice, Christmas and Kwanza. Customers will obtain both 10 percent savings on their total order at the event plus a free gift with their purchases. Customers can select from a vast assortment of gemstones that can be used as part of their spiritual practices to gain peace and promote love and protection. Beautiful imagery of Egyptian, Celtic, Yoruba and Hindu gods and goddesses plus archangels are also offered to start or complete a spiritual altar and invite blessings into homes. Gemstone bracelets make for wonderful stocking stuffers. Ritual candles of many kinds, sizes and colors, and more than 150 separate smudge bundles, herbs and incense are available to prepare for the coming year. All merchandise is eligible for the discount including books and card decks.

Unity.org

nity of Charlotte will conduct a Burning Bowl ceremony, the yearend ritual that allows participants to release negativity from their lives, beginning at noon on December 31, at their shared facilities with Wesley United Methodist Church, in Charlotte. Co-ministers Reverend Jim Ernstsen and Reverend Lisa Herklotz will lead the event for the first time in their new collaborative location. After a guided meditation, participants will write down aspects of their lives they feel no longer serves them. These words will be burned using the flame of a candle, thereby releasing the negative items into the air as smoke. Many participants find this intimate ceremony personally meaningful in that it helps them clear the slate from the previous year and start the new year easily and cleanly. Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. It honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path. Location: 3715 Rea Rd. For more information, visit UnityOfCharlotte.org. See CRG, page 35.

learn about marketing opportunities at:

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Location: 3010 Monroe Rd., Ste. 104. For more information, call 704-632-9911 or email MamaBessiesPlace@yahoo.com. See ad, page 13. 10

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In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers identified the first nonhuman animal mother to use baby talk with their young. Bottlenose dolphin mothers use a higher pitch of their whistles when communicating with their calves. They also employ a signature whistle that functions like a name, and calves learn their names and those of their mother and members of their pod early on. Scientists from Florida’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program have been recording the whistles of adult female dolphins and their calves for decades. Analysis of the recordings of 19 pairs of mothers and calves found that dolphin mothers produced signature whistles with a significantly higher maximum frequency and wider frequency ranges when they were with their calves than not with them. It is thought that the baby talk enhances a calf’s attention, allowing for bonding with their mother and vocal learning. The research may provide insight into the evolution of vocal learning, a prerequisite for language.

Oldest Wooden Structure

California is the first state to ban the sale of four food additives linked to potential health issues even though they are permitted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The law will be enforced beginning in 2027. Already banned by the European Union and other countries, the four culprits are red T:10.625" dye No. 3, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil and Advertisement Advertisement propylparaben, which are used in some brandsAdvertisement of orange soda, icing, hamburger rolls, candies and processed foods. Red dye No. 3, which is derived from petroleum, makes medicines and foods bright red. The FDA already bans it from cosmetics because studies show that high doses cause cancer in lab animals. Potassium bromate, used to improve the texture of bakedT:10.625" goods, has also been linked to cancer in lab animals. Brominated vegetable oil in citrus Advertisement Advertisement drinks Advertisement has been tied to behavioral and reproductive issues in lab animals, among other issues. Propylparaben is a cosmetic and food preservative that is believed to be an endocrine disruptor. T:10.625"

It sickens us to say, “This can’t happen again.” T:20"

Again.

It sickens us to say, “This can’t happen again.” T:20"

Again.

It sickens us to say, “This can’t happen again.” T:20"

A study in the journal Nature reports the discovery of a wooden structure dating back 476,000 years near Kalambo Falls, in Zambia. The structure predates the evolution of Homo sapiens by more than 120,000 years. Archaeologists found two preserved interlocking logs joined side-to-side by an intentionally cut notch. Tool marks were found on both logs, along with a collection of wooden tools. The study authors believe that the logs may have been used to build a raised platform, walkway or foundation for a dwelling in an area subject to periodic flooding. The discovery challenges the view that Stone Age hominini were nomadic. To estimate the age of the logs and tools, the team used luminescence dating techniques that roughly calculate the last time minerals in the sand surrounding the items were exposed to sunlight.

California Bans Food Additives Justyna Troc/shutterstock.com

Baby-Talking Dolphins

Alberto Loyo/shutterstock.com

Unity.org

global briefs

Again.

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Red Light Therapy to Reduce Glucose Levels

health briefs

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Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Using Artificial Intelligence

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans and their families are living with Alzheimer’s disease. To determine if a person has the disease and rule out other possible causes of cognitive disfunction, doctors use several methods and tools, such as memory and problem-solving tests, biomarker tests and brain scans. Companies and scientists are engaged in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve diagnosis. Here are three examples. RetiSpec, a Toronto-based medical imaging company, claims to have developed an AI algorithm for its eye scanner that can detect signs of Alzheimer’s 20 years before symptoms develop, as well as Parkinson’s, vascular dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). California-based NeuroVision Imaging uses its AI-enhanced retinal imaging system to look for the buildup of certain proteins or blood vessels with a twisted shape, which are both associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Rui Chang, Ph.D., a researcher at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, built an AI model to identify genetic triggers linked to Alzheimer’s, which would otherwise potentially take a decade to identify. His model will be tested in a clinical trial led by PATH Biotech, an AI-powered medical solutions company founded by Chang. 12

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that 37.3 million Americans, or 11.3 percent of the population, have diabetes, which means the body does not produce enough insulin, causing too much blood glucose (sugar) to stay in the bloodstream. Over time, diabetes can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss and kidney disease. Researchers from the University of London conducted a study of the effects of red light therapy on blood sugar levels. In the study, 15 participants received 670 nanometers of red light onto approximately 800 square centimeters of their exposed back for 15 minutes. The 15-person control group had the same equipment placed on their back, but the light was not turned on. The result was a significant reduction in blood sugar levels in the group exposed to red light following a glucose intake by the participants. Over a two-hour period following the therapy, maximum glucose spiking was reduced by 5.1 percent. Red light exposure can be used to reduce blood glucose spikes following meals as a safe, non-invasive treatment for diabetes management at home.

Cold Medicine Found Not to Work

A U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel voted unanimously that oral phenylephrine was not effective in unblocking sinuses and clearing stuffy noses. The drug has been in use for nearly a century and is an ingredient in more than 200 over-the-counter decongestants. Drug stores have begun removing these products from the shelves. The decision by the FDA was the result of decades of research and an unwavering commitment by two University of Florida pharmacists to remove decongestants from the market that contained an ingredient that was no better than a placebo.

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local health brief

Mercury Does Not Belong in the Mouth

stanleyrx.com

ental amalgam safety has been debated for more than 150 years, especially regarding the mercury used in fillings. In September 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration released a statement acknowledging the risks posed to certain high-risk groups of people, saying, “These uncertainties in the most vulnerable patients are why today we are recommending people who may be at high risk for adverse health effects of mercury exposure use nonmercury alternatives to dental amalgam such as composite resins and glass ionomer cement fillings. Dental amalgam-related mercury vapor release may be highest during placement or removal of the filling.” Alternatives to amalgam include composite resin, ceramic, gold and other options. Most consumers choose direct composite fillings because the white coloring matches the tooth better and the cost is considered moderate. Another choice for dental patients concerned about which alternative to use as a filling material is to perform a dental biocompatibility test. A blood sample is evaluated by a laboratory for the presence of antibodies sensitive to the chemical ingredients used in dental products. The patient is then provided with a detailed list of which dental materials are safe for their use and which could result in a reaction. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) provides certification in the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART), which follows the IAOMT research-based protocol. Some of the standards include rubber dam isolation, a separate oxygen source for patients, high-volume suction and dental air vacuum. The doctor and assistant wear vapor masks. John Kempter is an accredited IAOMT dentist and the owner of Kempter Dentistry, located at 1000 Copperfield Blvd., Ste. 160, in Concord, and 3111 Springbank Ln., Ste. F1, in Charlotte. For appointments and more information, call 704-782-0797, email Info@KempterDentistry.com or visit KempterDentistry.com.

SPECIALIZING IN Men's Hormone and Sexual Health Women's Hormone and Sexual Health Integrative and Holistic Medicine CBD Compounded Medications

STANLEY SPECIALTY PHARMACY 3120 LATROBE DR. SUITE 200 CHARLOTTE, NC 28211 P. 704.370.6612 F. 704.375.5888

HOURS OF OPERATION: Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm Saturday noon-4pm Sunday-Monday closed

Spiritual, Religious, Metaphysical, New Age Supplies, Gifts & Books, Candles, Incense, Smudge Sticks & Accessories, Gemstones & Crystals, Tarot & Oracle Cards, Pendulums, Herbs, Gemstone Jewelry, Talismans, Egyptian, Hindu, Catholic Statuary 3010 Monroe Road • Suite 104 Charlotte 704-632-9911 Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

December 2023

fit body

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Taking Charge of the Fitness Journey

HOW TO FIND MOTIVATION IN 2024 by Cristina Parker, DPT

AI-Miha Creativey/shutterstock.com

Winter Workouts

ne of the most common New Year’s resolutions involves improving health, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A great way to stay motivated and fulfilled in 2024 is to combine a personal goal for better health with the larger purpose of nourishing our planet and giving back to the community.

Equipment and Gear When planning a fitness routine, consider the sustainability and carbon footprint of the equipment and gear. “There are several greener initiatives you can take, such as utilizing power-generating exercise equipment or reducing paper and packaging waste through purchasing fewer items,” advises Jamie Temple, a healthcare customer-success executive. Many companies are utilizing recycled materials for fitness equipment, such as the 100-percent recycled cork yoga mats by 42 Birds or Iron Company’s line of green fitness equipment, including barbells, medicine balls and weight storage systems made of recycled materials. Purchase exercise clothes from brands that offer clothing made with fair trade and collection practices that include natural and recycled fabrics. Karen Thomas, a doctor of physical therapy and founder of Venture Out Wellness, in Virginia, observes, “Now more than ever in fashion, comfort is being merged with sustainable, high-performance fabrics that offer you a great opportunity to be kind to Planet Earth and your body simultaneously.” 14

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Getting exercise outdoors may require more thought during the winter months. According to the American Heart Association, colder weather constricts the blood vessels, which can decrease blood flow and oxygen. Monitoring symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain and dizziness is important during any exercise, but heightened for those exercising outdoors in the cold. Factors such as the weather, the temperature, lack of daylight and chaotic holiday schedules can interfere with the goal of creating a realistic, attainable outdoor workout. Hiking, walking and cycling can still be performed outside in dry conditions with the appropriate clothing, or indoors using an elliptical, treadmill or recumbent bike. Stressing the need for safety when exercising outdoors in the winter, Temple says,“Avoid icy roads and sidewalks; stretch or walk in place to warm up first; protect your eyes and ears; and always wear non-slip shoes.” Alternatively, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing and ice skating can be fun ways to take advantage of the winter and get moving while trying something new. Another consideration when exercising in weather extremes is staying hydrated. Cold weather studies at the University of New Hampshire show an increased risk for dehydration because people don’t feel as thirsty when the weather is cold. Thomas recommends going green while hydrating by eliminating single-use water bottles in favor of a reusable, BPA-free water bottle.

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TheRoundup.org, an organization dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, reports, “Every year, 50 billion single-use water bottles are sold in the U.S., the vast majority of which either end up in landfills or add to the 5.25 trillion items of plastic waste already in our oceans.” Virtual fitness classes offer a great way to stay active on a cold, snowy day by combining the cozy convenience of in-home exertion with the guidance of trained professionals. Online platforms, such as YouTube, stream affordable and free sessions in a wide variety of modalities, from low-intensity options like yoga to high-intensity interval training. Some large health insurance companies collaborate

with fitness providers to facilitate accessibility. One example is UnitedHealthcare, which offers Apple Fitness+ subscriptions to fully insured members.

Community Support Getting involved in community initiatives is a wonderful way to seek out support and motivation, connect with likeminded individuals and build a health-conscious community. Stay active during the winter while giving back. Many organizations host activities such as volunteering at the local food bank or home meal delivery programs. Thomas suggests establishing a fitness community to motivate each other and

to find ways to reduce the group’s carbon footprint. To cut emissions, walk together or use walking as a warmup and cool down to and from a workout, take mass transit or carpool—with bonus points if the group has access to a hybrid or electric vehicle. We don’t have to be among the 80 percent of Americans that fail to achieve their New Year’s resolution. Feel well and feel good about achieving better health in the new year. Cristina Parker, a researcher, health content writer, educator and clinician specializing in neurologic disorders, limb-loss rehabilitation and adaptive sports techniques, holds a doctorate in physical therapy.

Don’t JUST Recycle,

Recycle

right!

ONLY RECYCLE THESE SIX ITEMS

PLASTIC BOTTLES & JUGS

SMALL & CLEAN CARDBOARD

CARTONS

METAL CANS

PAPER

GLASS BOTTLES

No Plastic Bags

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December 2023

bi-monthly column

ASK A MECK COUNTY EXPERT

Mecklenburg County Solid Waste experts receive hundreds of residential waste disposal and recycling questions weekly. To educate and empower Natural Awakenings readers, their experts provide updates and answer some of the most frequently asked questions in a bi-monthly column.

It’s Cart Sticker Time!

Mecklenburg County is working with local jurisdictional partners to clarify what goes in recycling carts and rolling out informational stickers. The stickers clearly show what should go inside the recycling cart and contain a QR code that connects to WipeOutWaste.com for more information. Our goal is to give residents clear and easy guidance on acceptable recyclables for curbside pickup and to reduce curbside recyclable contamination. We need the help of Mecklenburg County residents to apply stickers to their carts. The Recycling Cart Stickers are available at the fee booths at each of the Full-Service Centers (17131 Lancaster Hwy, 8007 Pence Rd. and 140 Valleydale Rd. in Charlotte; 12300 N. Statesville Rd. in Huntersville) and are also available at the main office: 2145 Suttle Avenue in Charlotte. The stickers are easy to apply and will help remind county residents of the acceptable items to place in recycling carts.

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Some of our WipeOutWaste Ambassadors have already been through some county neighborhoods to apply stickers. If you would like to assist in this program by adding stickers to your HOA neighborhood or street, please contact SolidWaste@MeckNC.gov. We could really use your help to make recycling more sustainable in Mecklenburg County. Remember, curbside recycling is limited due to the sorting systems at the Material Recycling Facility (MRF). The six standard items are: Plastic Bottles and Jugs (with necks), Cardboard, Paper, Metal Cans, Juice Cartons, and Glass Jars and Bottles. Always remember to “Recycle Right.” If you have program questions about recycling, waste diversion or anything else related to waste, please visit WipeOutWaste.com. To submit a waste disposal and recycling question, email SolidWaste@MeckNC.gov. Jeff Smithberger, Director of Solid Waste, answers the top seven residential recycling questions at https://tinyurl.com/MeckRecyleRightFAQs.

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December 2023

THE GRACE OF GIVING AND RECEIVING HEALING THROUGH GENEROSITY

n today’s fast-paced world, where self-interest often takes precedence, the capacity for generosity can make a huge impact. Giving and supporting others fosters a more openhearted society, paving the way for greater connection and unity. A study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being shows that gratitude can increase self-esteem and long-term well-being, leading to greater fulfillment in myriad areas of life. In this season of giving (and throughout the year), gratitude can help shift perspectives on everyday circumstances and remind us of what really matters. Stories of people supporting one another through their generosity can move and inspire us to make every day a little brighter.

Facilitating Health Care Gratitude is often felt the most by those that have been helped through a loss or trauma. When her young adult son was 18

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afflicted with devastating ulcerative colitis, Phyllis Johnson remembers feeling desperate and frustrated by traditional medicine practitioners unable to help. “Watching a loved one suffer is the most helpless and isolating feeling,” she recalls. Her son finally found relief after introducing complementary and integrative therapies, and Johnson set out to help others that were not so fortunate. “If I didn’t have the cash, I don’t know what we would have done,” Johnson remarks, acknowledging her privilege. In 2013, she founded eFundYourHealth. org, a South Carolina-based nonprofit, to encourage and support community giving when conventional health care and health insurance are inadequate. “We pull from a team of passionate experts in the integrative and alternative health community who want to change the world,” she explains. Patients apply for grants for the care they need that is not covered by insurance. They

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are required to raise a minimum of $500 on their own, and eFundYourHealth.org connects with donors to meet the rest. According to Johnson, this model of people helping each other benefits everyone, including donors, patients and healthcare providers. “The patients are able to receive the often essential care they need and deserve to heal, and the donors and practitioners are making a vital difference in someone else’s life. The sense of gratitude connects everyone and heightens the healing process,” she says. Johnson identifies with the desperation of family members that would do anything to help their loved ones and says that serving others is the only option for her. “When someone you care about is suffering, not being able to make them better is excruciating. Once you’ve been through a traumatic experience, it builds a fire within you. Turning that into empowerment becomes part of your calling, and you are driven to ensure that others don’t have to go through the same thing,” she asserts.

Feeding the Hungry Generosity is often shared by the very people that have been on the receiving end. For Frieda Holly, experiencing homelessness changed her perspective and ignited a desire to help others. More than three decades ago, the Chicago resident was forced to move her family out of their apartment when her youngest son tested positive for lead poisoning. Unable to find housing on such short notice, Holly lived for six months with her children in a nearby shelter and was transformed by the experience. “It was not what I expected,” she remembers. “They treated us with extreme kindness, and I had never felt so loved and taken care of, especially in such a down moment.

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Ruth Westreich/thewestreichfoundation.org

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by Carrie Jackson

Ruth Westreich/thewestreichfoundation.org

When we moved out, I wanted to share that feeling and generosity with others.” Holly began collecting food from nearby pantries and making soup for the community out of her new home. What started as providing a meal to a few people quickly grew into a bustling soup kitchen. Today, Frieda’s Place has been a cornerstone in the community for 35 years. “A soup kitchen is different from a pantry, because a warm meal touches people’s heart and soul. I put a little love into every meal and make my guests feel special,” she muses. Some of her guests are regulars, others come by once or twice, and everyone is welcome at her table. While Holly runs the kitchen on her own, she is never alone. “Volunteers from the community stop by all the time to help out. Every day that we’re open, people drop off clothing, toiletries and other essential items,” she says. Much of the food is donated from nonprofits, such as the Chicago Greater Food Depository, and businesses, such as Trader Joe’s, and Holly makes do with whatever she’s given. “Most days, I wake up not knowing what

I’m serving that day, but it always works out, and my guests are always grateful for a hot meal,” says Holly. “People come to Frieda’s Place for more than just the food; they are craving emotional attention and connection. If I can give them more love or even just listen, it’s a spark in their day that may have ripple effects.”

Leveraging Art for Positive Outcome Ruth Westreich never thought she would become a philanthropist. The California

native grew up in poverty as a young caregiver for her ill mother. When a generous employer from a teenage job funded her college tuition, she was inspired to pay it forward. Westreich set out to help anyone she could by sharing her time, attention and financial resources. A passion for the arts set the groundwork for The Westreich Foundation, primarily funded by her affluent husband, who saw how impactful her work could be with the right support. Now in its 20th year, the organization funds programs and individuals at the intersection of art and healing, focusing on the welfare and education of youth, restorative farming and organic agriculture, scientific research and independent investigative journalism. “Art, science and intergenerational dialogue are inextricably linked, and harnessing them helps move beyond the societal and political entanglements that interfere with overall health,” Westreich explains. “We fund a lot of early adopters with big ideas that need investigating. We are especially interested in highlighting the dangers

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that need to be exposed in things like PFAS [per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances] and other chemicals that are harmful to the overall health of the planet.” The Westreich Foundation helped fund the nonprofits, scientific research and journalists that eventually uncovered the dangers of Monsanto’s weedkiller RoundUp. A painter herself, Westreich is deeply moved by the power of the arts in healing, and the foundation combines thought-provoking art, activism and philanthropy to engage and unite people. “By supporting and elevating these passionate groups, we are encouraged that their work will result in an exponential impact that can be scaled for dramatic changes in human and planetary health,” she asserts. “Gratitude emanates between our donors and our recipients. They are incredibly grateful for the support, and I am equally grateful to be able to give. More than the money, it’s the relationships that make us all feel the richest. I believe in the law of attraction and know in my heart that the more you give, the more you get back.”

Wellness, Wholeness and Holiness in Charlotte Now is the time to request wellness care in our schools, churches and legislature. The passion of Nurse Marlin, Primary Health Care of Charlotte PA, is to prevent disease and its complications that arise from a lack of affordable care. With 57 years of experience in neonatal, pediatrics and adult intensive care units, she Nurse Marlin understands that the unserved, underserved and uninsured use ICUs when their unmonitored conditions become highly escalated. To fill the need for affordable care, she opened a community nursing center in Charlotte 36 years ago and continues to serve all that seek wellness for themselves and their families. This Parent/Child Clinical Nurse Specialist and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner involves the whole family, church and community in assessing, planning, implementing, evaluating and following up on the client care she brings to the world in Jesus’ name. She also hosts the weekly cable TV show on channel 21 Wellness, Wholeness, Holiness and a weekly radio program on WDRB. She gives free checks of blood pressure, weight, cholesterol and blood sugar on the third Friday of each month from 3 to 6 p.m. Physicals for college, camp, sports, marriage and other needs cost $60; TB tests, cholesterol, blood sugar checks and urine analysis, $40.

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Spreading Holistic Hope and Gratitude When Suzan Walter co-founded the American Holistic Health Association (AHHA), her knowledge and understanding of holistic health was limited. The businesswoman and parent of two children had no intention of entering the health world, but her life changed course when a close friend was diagnosed with cancer and given two weeks to live. “During my grief, I read Bernie Siegel’s book Love, Medicine & Miracles and learned about terminally ill patients who took control of their illnesses and extended their lives beyond medical predictions,” she recalls, adding that her friend with cancer came to believe that he would recover. He accepted treatment and lived another two months. According to Walter, when he stopped believing, the treatments stopped working, and he died. Seeing firsthand the power that positivity could have in healing, Walter committed to learning more about holistic wellness and eventually founded AHHA, a free, online clearinghouse of resources and articles to support active self-care and healthy lifestyle changes. “We encourage the powerful, whole-person approach to health care that integrates physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. We are connecting and empowering holistic warriors with the resources to help them heal and a community to help support them,” Walter explains. “I am humbled and blessed that by being willing to serve, these opportunities to leave the world a little better have emerged. My friend was asked at the end of his life if there was any meaning he could take away from his suffering, to which he responded, ‘It allowed me to let others in and receive their love.’ Gratitude enabled him to find a gift, even under the most dire circumstances, and that is a beautiful lesson.” In this hectic season, slowing down and helping others can make a world of difference. By nurturing a culture of giving, we can help create a grateful, united community that reflects the values we want to instill.

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December 2023

wise words

Deepak Chopra

ON THE QUANTUM BODY AND ACHIEVING PEACE by Kimberly Whittle

eepak Chopra, M.D., is a pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine and one of the most inspiring philosophers of our time. He is the founder of The Chopra Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to research on well-being and humanitarianism, and Chopra Global, a health company at the intersection of science and spirituality. Chopra also is a clinical professor of family medicine and public health at the University of California San Diego and serves as a senior scientist with Gallup, Inc. He has authored more than 90 books translated into more than 43 languages, including numerous bestsellers. Chopra collaborated with Jack Tuszynski, Ph.D., a physicist, and Brian Fertig, M.D., an endocrinologist, on his latest book, Quantum Body: The New Science of Living a Longer, Healthier, More Vital Life.

What inspired you to write this book? It is a celebration of the most surprising turn in my life. When I was practicing medicine at an exhaustive, hectic pace more than 30 years ago, I started meditating and had a life-changing breakthrough vision of a human body shimmering as a visual image—the quantum mechanical body. I became a writer, and my book, Quantum Healing, gave me my first boost. But at the time, the topic of meditation was considered fringe. Thirty-seven years later, the fringe has moved to the center, and new studies are overturning long-held mainstream medical beliefs. Hence, the time seemed right to take a second bite of the apple. 22

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How can we modulate our epigenetic activity and restore homeostasis to reduce stress and inflammation? Mind and body are inseparably one. By increasing our awareness of bodily processes through interoception, we can self-regulate our body. We can do this through meditation, practicing vagal breathing and vagal activation, doing yoga and through movement. The greatest gift of self-awareness is to live with love, truth, beauty and bliss as your goal. Ultimate well-being requires no less.

What do you mean by the quantum body? Our physical body is an activity in consciousness. You experience your body through the five senses. Physical reality is experienced in the field of awareness that is outside of our body, and the field of awareness inside our body is called the interoceptive awareness. Meditation helps us transcend our physical and mental body and takes us to the source of all experience, including the experience of mind and body. Pure consciousness is the source of mind-body and the universe. The causal body is the source of every experience we have; it is your soul and the same thing as your quantum body. Quantum body exists to bring about all the healing needed at every level.

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Why is the quantum model for well-being important, and how do you plan to reach a critical mass of participants? Today, everyone is taking sides and is in conflict because they don’t agree with the perspective of others. As long as you engage in recycling trauma, the trauma leads to inflammation and disease in the body and in mental disorders. We have an inflamed world and will never solve this problem by any one side becoming the victor, because the intergenerational trauma will last for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. This is the history of humanity since we were hunters and gatherers. Now the same tribal mindset spells extinction. We are sleepwalking to extinction unless we wake up. There is no hope for climate change, social and economic justice, racism, prejudice, health or joy. We need to cool down the world’s inflammation by starting with

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ourselves and creating an ecosystem where we can bring peace to our own families, social environment, ecosystem of relationships and communities; then we can reach a critical mass. A lot of people do agree that consciousness is a field and that we can aspire to a more peaceful, just, sustainable, healthier and joyful world. The Chopra Foundation has launched two programs. The Certification in the Soul of Leadership is about how you become a spiritual leader, which I have taught at Kellogg [School of Management at Northwestern University] and Columbia [University] and given talks about at Harvard [University]. We received a grant to offer it free of charge. The other certification, Becoming a Peace as the Way Facilitator, is only $9.99. If you can’t afford it, we give it for free. If you focus on these two things and get the critical mass of people out there, the change we want to see in the world will happen. That you exist should be a perpetual surprise, and you should be full of gratitude for existence itself. That is the most holy and sacred experience that we can have. What I am grateful for is that I exist.

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December 2023

conscious eating

Holiday Parties for Every Diet

HOW TO PLAN AN INCLUSIVE AND SAFE FEAST

nclusivity and respect are at the heart of a memorable and enjoyable experience around the holiday table. “Nothing can spoil a wonderful holiday faster than when your family or friends are unable to enjoy your delicious food,” says Julie Matthews, a certified nutrition consultant and founder of Nourishing Hope. From allergies to religious restrictions and ethical choices, understanding and accommodating guests’ diverse dietary needs is the foundation of a successful gathering. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, more than 17 percent of the adult population is on a special diet on any given day. Food Allergy Research and Education reports that 85 million Americans have life-threatening food allergies and intolerances. Plant-based diets are also on the rise, with 5 to 6 percent of Americans identifying as vegetarians.

Preparation and Communication With a little creativity and careful planning, the holiday table can offer a diverse and delicious spread that everyone will enjoy. “Communication is an important first step when it comes to accommodating your guests’ dietary needs,” advises Yvonne Maffei, chef and creator of MyHalalKitchen.com. “Speak to them in advance to gain insight into their needs, giving yourself enough time to plan your menu and shop for any unique ingredients you might need.” “To make sure that guests with specific dietary constraints don’t feel isolated or singled 24

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out at the table, try to replicate the same dishes for everyone. It’s also helpful for each dish to be labeled so guests don’t have to ask, particularly if it’s a large gathering or buffet style,” says Maffei. “Prepare as much as possible ahead of time, if not all of it,” says Matthews. “It makes the environment feel more inviting, and you are able to focus on your guests. If other people are bringing dishes, ask them for the recipe ahead of time so that you can inform your guests.”

Food Allergies Party hosts need to pay special attention to food allergies, intolerances and sensitivities, which can cause uncomfortable or even life-threatening reactions, including bloating, diarrhea, skin reactions, swelling, breathing difficulties and anaphylactic shock. To prevent cross-contamination and provide peace of mind for guests, designate allergy-friendly cooking utensils, cutting boards and dishes. Here are a few substitutions for the most common offenders. DAIRY: For those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, serve plant-based milks made with almonds, soy or oats. Replace butter with coconut oil, olive oil or plantbased butters. EGGS: Substitute with applesauce, mashed bananas or commercial egg replacers, especially in baking. Tofu is a good alternative for scrambled eggs. PEANUTS: Eliminate the potential for crossover allergies by avoiding other nuts that are processed in the same facilities as peanuts. Sunflower seed butter, tahini and almond butter are tasty and healthy alternatives in recipes.

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Stanislav Sablin from Getty Images/Canva Pro

Foxys Forest Manufacture/shutterstock.com

by Madiha Saeed, M.D.

TREE NUTS: Use sunflower, pumpkin and flax seeds instead of tree nuts. Coconut or dried fruits can add texture and flavor. Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, nutritious alternative. SEAFOOD: Lean meats, legumes, tofu, seitan, jackfruit and mushrooms can be used as alternatives to fish and shellfish in recipes. Vegan fish substitutes are also available.

Stanislav Sablin from Getty Images/Canva Pro

GLUTEN: Use flours made with almonds, coconut, rice or buckwheat. Quinoa works well in salads or as a main dish. Cross-contamination is a concern; choose products that are labeled gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour to thicken gravies. SOY: Coconut aminos or tamari can substitute for soy sauce. For recipes that call for tofu, seitan or jackfruit may be used. SESAME: Sunflower or pumpkin seeds and almond butter can replace sesame seeds or tahini in recipes. MUSTARD: Turmeric mixed with a little vinegar can be a suitable alternative in many recipes.

Restrictive Diets Whether for health, weight loss, ethical or religious reasons, guests may be following a specific diet that omits ingredients. To respect and support their needs, here are a few recommended substitutions. VEGAN: Offer recipes made with tofu, lentils and beans as protein sources, and nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute. Replace dairy with plant-based milks. VEGETARIAN: Celebrate the wonders of the plant kingdom with hearty vegetable roasts and scrumptious vegan desserts. PALEO: For this diet that focuses on whole foods, substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour, and refined sugar with honey or pure maple syrup. KETOGENIC: Common low-carb, highfat alternatives include non-starchy vegetables, such as cauliflower, and sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. Low-FODMAP: This diet for people with irritable bowel syndrome eliminates numerous irritants. Garlic-infused oil can be an alternative to fresh garlic, and lactosefree dairy or almond milk can replace regular milk.

DATE COOKIES YIELD: 25 COOKIES 3 cups almond flour ½ cup nut butter of choice ½ cup honey 3 eggs 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1½ cups baking dates, pitted and chopped Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except the dates until smooth. Line a cookie sheet with unbleached parchment paper. Scoop about a tablespoon of batter and roll into a round ball. In the middle of the ball, press ½ teaspoon of dates into the center, rolling again to surround the dates with cookie dough. Place on a cookie sheet, flattening slightly. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove and let cool before serving.

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Recipe reprinted with permission of Madiha Saeed, M.D. HALAL: Omit alcohol and pork products. Use meat and poultry that is processed according to Islamic law. Replace alcohol-based flavor extracts with real vanilla beans. KOSHER: Follow the dietary laws of kashrut based on the Torah and the oral tradition. Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.

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Kendall Heath,

Interfaith/Interspiritual Minister

on the Importance of Spiritual People Staying Engaged with World Suffering

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December 2023

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Graytown from Getty Images/Canva Pro

STIR-FRIED OKRA YIELD: 4 SERVINGS 16-oz package of frozen, cut okra ¼ cup olive oil 1½ medium tomatoes, chopped 1 medium onion, sliced ¼ tsp finely diced fresh ginger 1 tsp chopped garlic clove 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp turmeric powder ½ tsp paprika powder ¼ tsp cumin powder

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CHICKEN YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

Preheat oven to 400° F. Bake okra until lightly brown on unbleached parchment paper that has been sprayed with a bit of oil. Remove from heat and set aside.

¼ cup olive oil 1 tsp grated or finely diced fresh garlic 1 tsp grated or finely diced fresh ginger 2 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 tsp turmeric powder ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp cumin powder 1 small tomato, diced

In a medium, ceramic skillet sauté sliced onions in the oil until they start to become transparent. Add tomatoes and spices and mix. Incorporate the baked okra to the tomato-onion mixture and cook for 25 minutes on low heat.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic and cook for one minute. Add the remaining ingredients except the tomatoes and cook for five to six minutes until the chicken is done. Add the tomatoes and cover, simmering until the liquid evaporates.

Recipe reprinted with permission of Madiha Saeed, M.D.

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December 2023

healing ways

EXPLORING INTERMITTENT FASTING TIPS AND BENEFITS FOR IMPROVED HEALTH by Steven Masley, M.D., FAHA, FACN, CNS

n ALTERNATE-DAY FASTING

involves alternating between days of normal caloric intake and days of severe calorie restriction.

n 5:2 DIET entails consuming a normal

diet for five days and restricting calorie intake to 500 to 600 calories on two non-consecutive days.

n THE WARRIOR DIET involves fasting

for 20 hours followed by a four-hour eating window, typically in the evening.

fizkes/shutterstock.com

Selecting a Regimen

asting has long played a role in major religions, but we did not begin to understand it from a scientific standpoint until Yoshinori Ohsumi, a Japanese cell biologist, discovered how cells recycle and renew themselves during fasting, for which he was awarded a Nobel Prize in 2016. Since then, multiple clinical trials have proven the health benefits of intermittent fasting (IF).

How Intermittent Fasting Works IF influences the body’s blood sugar control, energy production, gut bacteria 28

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load and hormone levels. When abstaining from food for a period of time, the body begins to rely on fat stores for cellular fuel. This shift in energy metabolism also allows for enhanced autophagy, a process that removes damaged cellular components and promotes cellular renewal and repair.

Regimen Types

n TIME-RESTRICTED FEEDING (TRF) involves limiting the daily eating window to a specific period, typically eight to 10 hours, followed by a fasting period of 14 to 16 hours. This regimen can be followed daily or limited to a few days per week.

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All forms of IF have similar health benefits. Each approach has its own merits, and it is crucial to choose the one that aligns with personal goals, lifestyle, fasting tolerance and overall well-being. Before adopting an IF routine, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. The easiest approach for many people is TRF, where eating stops at 9 p.m., breakfast is limited to coffee or tea without sugar or milk and eating resumes at noon. TRF has been shown to have similar benefits if followed every day or even just three days per week. Fasting for a minimum of 12 hours provides some benefits, but a fasting period of 15 hours or more often yields greater benefits. The best fasting hours depend on an individual’s work schedule and goals. Some individuals may find it more convenient to begin their fast in the evening and skip breakfast, while others prefer to omit dinner and have an early lunch, thus extending their overnight fast. The most critical factor is finding a pattern that can be maintained consistently.

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Benefits of Intermittent Fasting Intermittent fasting has been associated with numerous health benefits, including enhanced cognitive performance, weight loss, reduced cardiovascular risk factors and better blood sugar control. A study published in Cell Metabolism suggests that IF might correct circadian rhythm disruptions, which are believed to play a role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers found that IF improves memory and reduces the accumulation of fibrous amyloid proteins in the brain. Other studies have also found that IF enhances memory, attention, brain processing speed and cognitive function. Multiple randomized clinical trials have shown that intermittent fasting is effective for modest weight loss, varying from five to 15 pounds, as well as reductions in waist circumference, body mass index and cardiometabolic risk factors. IF is a safe dietary option to improve several markers of cardiometabolic health. A meta-analysis of 130 randomized clinical trials of subjects following all forms of IF showed improvements in insulin sensitivity, plus improvements in weight, cholesterol profiles, fasting blood sugar levels and blood pressure control. These findings suggest that IF is effective in helping to prevent heart disease. An article in the Journal of Restorative Medicine highlighted the potential benefits of IF in preventing and treating cancer, although more research is needed. The authors noted that IF can promote recycling of cells, enhance DNA repair in normal cells, improve cell regeneration in tissues and protect against the toxic effects of chemotherapy.

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MICHAEL BUBLÉ "Like so many families, I have been deeply affected by Alzheimer's, so I was thrilled to become a part of this film when I realized that there's hope, and it's not just a death sentence." - Michael Bublé

Fasting has long played a role in major religions, but we did not begin to understand it from a scientific standpoint until Yoshinori Ohsumi, a Japanese cell biologist, discovered how cells recycle and renew themselves during fasting, for which he was awarded a Nobel Prize in 2016. Since then, multiple clinical trials have proven the health benefits of intermittent fasting (IF).

Safety and Other Considerations Intermittent fasting is generally considered safe for most healthy individuals. However, young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with epilepsy, a history of eating disorders and those taking medications that can lower blood sugar levels should exercise caution or avoid fasting altogether. While intermittent fasting can offer numerous benefits, some individuals may experience increased hunger and food cravings, poor sleep quality, an excessive drop in blood sugar levels in individuals prone to hypoglycemia and adverse effects on hormonal balance, especially for women that are menstruating. Steven Masley is a physician, nutritionist, trained chef, clinical professor at the University of South Florida and creator of health programs for public television. He is the author of The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up. Learn more at DrMasley.com. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

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December 2023

Stay Tuned with Good Vibrations by Barbara Griggs

he language of energy is vibration. Since we, and all of creation, may have been “sung” into existence, Solfeggio tuning forks, using sound and vibration, can help us remember our original Song of Perfection. Sound and frequency permeate all of existence. By inviting balance, release, clarity and other benefits back into our physical, emotional and mental states of being, we are on our way to becoming all we were meant to be. Solfeggio tuning forks create rich, beautifully resonant tones that are felt vibrationally above and in the body, even though there is minimal physical contact. Chakras become balanced; energy returns; old beliefs and ancient debris can be surrendered, removing those thoughts no longer valid or useful. Blockages can be identified and released (see SomaEnergetics.com). Researchers are finding many correlations between our ancient teachings and rituals with scientific secrets of sound that could help heal humanity from the inside-out (see Gaia: Sound of Creation Series). Science now validates that it is possible to improve physical and emotional issues through vibrational tuning fork techniques. “When our bodies are properly tuned, we have a sense of well-being and perfect self-expression.” (see JohnBeaulieu.com) At an appointment, the sound and vibration of the Solfeggio tuning forks are explained to the client; you will see, hear and feel the forks, and all questions will be answered. The client will lay face-down on a softly covered massage table with gentle music and perhaps candles or a light fragrance in the room. The client is grounded by the Om Tuner (at 136.1 Hz, it is the vibration of the Earth as it goes around the sun). The energy of the chakras is determined by use of a pendulum, and the client will be informed of any issues observed. The Energy Vitality Technique (SomaEnergetics) is begun (totally non-contact) and the client only relaxes, allowing the sounds and vibrations to surround them. At a certain point, the client is asked to turn over, lying face up, and the Energy Vitality Technique is completed; again, the client is grounded by the Om Tuner. They are gently helped to a sitting position, and suggestions are given concerning possible feelings resulting from the technique. Barbara Griggs is a certified vibrational sound master teacher and owner of Spirit and Sound, in Charlotte. For more information, call 248-321-6098 or visit SpiritandSound.net. See CRG, page 34. 30

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