June 2023

Alternative Medicine

COURSES INCLUDE:

• Nutrition and Aging

• Detoxification and Healing

• Antioxidants

• Naturopathy

• Introduction to Chiropractic

• Principles of Acupuncture

• Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Ayurvedic Medicine

• Health Psychology

• Herbology and Botany

• Alternative Approaches to Disease

100% online or on-campus class schedules are available

Students take one class at a time for more focused learning

Financial aid is available for those who qualify

Awarminvitation to explore our latest issue, brimming with a wide variety of material that can support you on your wellness journey. Our aim is to leave you feeling inspired and empowered to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

In our feature article, What Every Man Wants - Sexual Vitality at Every Age, by Carrie Jackson, discover how advancements in medical understanding have made it easier for men to address issues related to sexual function. By adopting a proactive and holistic approach to their overall wellness, men can enjoy a robust sex drive and performance well into their later years. Dive into this enlightening article on page 16.

In the Wise Words department, Sandra Yeyati brings you an insightful article, Living Healthy to 100 and Beyond. She introduces Mark Hyman, a renowned leader in the field of functional medicine, who shares his expertise on healthy aging in his latest book, Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life. Learn more of Hyman's valuable insights on page 14.

Linda Sechrist explores the topic of metabolism in our Conscious Eating department article, Sustainable Eating: Converting Food to Energy - Learning How Metabolism Works, shedding light on the vital process by which the foods we consume are transformed into energy. Discover the powerful connection between diet and vitality, and find practical ways to optimize your metabolism on page 19.

In our Healthy Kids department, Julie Peterson presents an article focused on conscious fatherhood. Parenting for Dads - Building a Better Family emphasizes the importance of quality time spent together rather than material possessions or extravagant vacations. Gain insights into the transformative power of embracing the role of fatherhood on page 12.

Sheila Julson explores the realm of

sustainable investing in our Green Living department. Her article, Socially Conscious Investing - How to Choose Sustainable Stocks and Mutual Funds, delves into the growing trend of environmental, social, and corporate governance investing (ESG). Discover how your investments can make a positive impact while generating a return on investment. Explore this informative piece on page 24.

PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA EDITION

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

Publisher Susan Q Wood

Editor Cheryl Hynes

Design & Production Robin White

Contributing Writers National & Local Sales & Marketing Cheryl Hynes

Accounting NA PalmBeach

Distribution M&M Media Distribution

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings

3900 Galt Ocean Dr #1403 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308

NaturalAwakeningsFla@gmail.com 561-262-5584

MAILED SUBSCRIPTIONS

Carrie Jackson shares in our Healing Ways department, Keeping Eyes Sharp - A Holistic Approach to Vision Health. Recognizing the importance of our eyes as sensory organs, Jackson highlights the significance of regular eye exams and proactive maintenance for optimal vision health. Explore the wisdom within this article on page 22.

With each article and department, our goal is to provide you with valuable insights, empowering knowledge, and practical guidance for your wellness journey. Let the pages of this magazine inspire and guide you towards a life of vibrant health, joy, and fulfillment. Remember, wellness is a lifelong pursuit, and each step you take brings you closer to your goals.

Yearly subscriptions are available, $39 for 12 monthly issues.

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

National Editor Sandra Yeyati

Editor Brooke Goode

Copy Editor/Proofreader Melanie Rankin

Design & Production Gabrielle W-Perillo

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

© 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 561-626-5584 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.

Susan Q Wood Publisher

Natural Awakenings is printed on recyclable newsprint.

One of the deep secrets of life is that all that is really worth doing is what we do for others. ~Lewis Carroll

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.

advertising & submissions

HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, kindly contact us at 954-630-1610 or email us at NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com.

Due date for advertising: the 10th of the month.

ARTICLE AND BRIEF SUBMISSIONS

Submit articles, news, and briefs for consideration: NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com.

Content due date: the 10th.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

Login/Join & Order Online: NApalmbeach.com/calendar.

Calendar due date: the 10th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS

Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. has been serving local and national communities since 1994. To place your ad in multiple markets call 561-626-5584

For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com

16

Discover Your Future with Intuitive Clairvoyant Dr. Deborah Armenti

Dr.

Deborah Armenti, renowned intuitive clairvoyant, has been combining her expertise in metaphysics with her medical background to provide clients with their personal guidance for a more fulfilling future. Through her metaphysics, mediumship, and channeling abilities, she has helped many a client create the life they desire.

One such client, Daniela D., from Sandy Springs, Georgia, shares, "What I appreciate the most about Dr. Armenti is her ability to provide advice that is applicable to my work and my personal life. This is the main reason I keep coming back time after time, over the past 22-plus years!”

Emiko Y., from Atlanta, Georgia, shares, "When my daughter got accepted to a few colleges and could not decide which school to attend, Dr. Deb described the building and surrounding scenery as well as helping her choose the college of her dreams.”

Shares Tosha S., from Jupiter, Florida, “Dr. Armenti has been providing me with accurate advice by combining her channeling ability in Tarot and astrology.”

Don't settle for a mediocre life—unlock all potential and embrace the future! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Armenti, call 561-285-1479. See more, ad page 31.

Revolution Dating: Finding Love in Today's Climate — The Summer Dating Tsunami KellyLeary,

M.S., of Revolution Dating, emphasizes that it is possible to find love again, especially during the summer months. With the right approach and the right people, dating can be a fun and enjoyable experience. However, it does require vulnerability and putting one’s self out there. That's where Revolution Dating comes in, as a connected and trusted professional matchmaking service that can help find the perfect partner.

Staying up-to-date with dating terminologies is essential as it can help avoid problems that arise from online dating, including micro-cheating, ghosting, and catfishing. Revolution Dating believes in finding love offline and positioning their clients to meet authentic people through private introductions by educated matchmakers. They offer a smart and safe way to date in today's climate.

This Father's Day, Revolution Dating wishes all the fantastic men out there a happy one, and encourages everyone to tell their friends about their services. “Don't wait any longer to find your perfect match—Revolution Dating is here to help.” Experience Revolution Dating's expertise in finding a compatible partner.

For exclusive specials for the month of June and/or to book a priority appointment, call 561-630-9696. See more, ad page 30.

Herbs and Spices Promote Gut Health

A 2022 research study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that herbs and spices may be unsung heroes in the quest for gut health. The three-period, randomized, controlled-feeding study involved 54 obese or overweight adults aged 30 to 75 with at least one other risk factor for cardiovascular disease, such as elevated glucose or triglycerides. Participants consumed the same average American diet for four weeks, along with one of three daily doses of spices and herbs—0.5 grams, 3.3 grams or 6.6 grams—which included cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme. Fecal samples were collected at the start of the study and the end of each diet period.

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

Ruslan

Huzau/ShutterStock.com

Low Vitamin D Linked to Risk of Death

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine determined that vitamin D deficiency increases mortality risk. The findings were based on a survey of the vitamin D levels and genetic data of more than 300,000 people aged 37 to 73 that participated in the UK Biobank, a large-scale cohort study that began in 2006. Almost 19,000 deaths from all causes, as well as from specific causes such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory illnesses, were recorded through 2020. Researchers discovered that the risk of death decreased steeply with increasing concentrations of vitamin D, until reaching 50 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The odds of death from all causes were estimated to increase by 25 percent for participants with vitamin D levels of 25 nmol/L, compared to those with 50 nmol/L.

New Insights on Water Consumption Requirements

We have been conditioned to believe that eight glasses of water are required each day, but new research published in Science found that daily water needs vary based on numerous factors. Researchers studied 5,604 people aged 8 to 96 from 23 countries, measuring their water turnover—the amount of water lost and replaced each day. They found that for most healthy adults, drinking eight cups of water a day is unnecessary because water needs vary depending on age, sex, body size, physical activity level, athletic status, pregnancy, socioeconomic status and environmental characteristics such as latitude, altitude, air temperature and humidity. People that lived in less developed countries had higher water turnover than people from developed countries. While hydration should be prioritized, most people that pay attention to their bodies and drink when thirsty are likely drinking enough water.

Indian Food Images/ShutterStock.com

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Daily Intense Activity Prolongs Life

average age of 62 that wore movement tracking devices on their wrists.

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

Smartphones Make Poor Babysitters

Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) refers to short, sporadic bursts of exertion done as part of daily living, such as walking very fast while commuting to work or climbing stairs. The scientists found that compared to participants that engaged in no VILPA, those that did just one to two minutes of VILPA three to four times daily exhibited a 38 to 40 percent lower risk of death over the course of seven years. They also noted that just a few minutes of VILPA throughout the day reduced cardiovascular disease-related mortality by up to 49 percent. Similar results were obtained when they analyzed vigorous physical activity in roughly 62,000 participants that exercised regularly. VILPA in non-exercisers appears to elicit similar effects to vigorous physical activity in exercisers, suggesting that VILPA may be a suitable physical activity target, especially in people not able or willing to exercise on a regular basis.

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Parents are busy people, often juggling multiple commitments. Add a toddler meltdown to the mix, and it is easy to understand why parents may reach for a tablet, smartphone or other screen to calm and occupy the child. A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children pay a price for this strategy.

Researchers at the University of Michigan concluded that the frequent use of mobile devices to calm young children may displace their opportunities for learning emotion-regulation strategies over time. The cohort study involved a sample of English-speaking parents of typically developing children aged 3 to 5. The scientists gathered baseline data at the start of the study, as well as follow-up evidence after three months and six months.

The participating parents used a five-point scale to report how often they used mobile devices to calm upset children. At each follow-up, the child’s executive functioning and emotional reactivity were assessed. The study found that the frequent use of mobile devices for calming young children was associated with increased emotional dysregulation, especially in boys, and included rapid shifts between sadness and excitement, greater impulsivity and sudden mood changes.

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength. ~Theodore Roosevelt

Plastic Rocks Found on Remote Brazilian Island

Artificial Intelligence That Can See With the Mind’s Eye

A team of researchers from the National University of Singapore, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Stanford University are using artificial intelligence (AI) to decode human brain scans and determine what a person is picturing in their mind.

Brazilian researchers have discovered rocks formed from plastic debris in the permanently preserved area of Trindade Island, approximately 680 miles off the coast of Brazil. The island is a remote refuge for green turtles, which come by the thousands every year to lay their eggs. The only human inhabitants of the island are members of the Brazilian navy.

The team of researchers ran chemical tests on the rocks, called plasticglomerates, and determined that they were formed when fishing nets were dragged by the current and accumulated on the beach. It is believed that the nets melt when the temperature rises and they become embedded with the sedimentary granules and other debris on the beach.

Participants underwent brain scans using a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) machine while looking at more than 1,000 pictures, such as a red firetruck, a gray building and a giraffe eating leaves. This fMRI data was processed by an AI model for roughly 20 hours per patient, as it trained to associate certain brain patterns with the different images.

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

Microplastics Released by Tea Bags

Most mesh tea bags are made of 20 to 30 percent plastic, which can release microplastics and nanoplastics, causing harmful effects for both human health and the environment. In a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, researchers found that one standard tea bag made with plastic released 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into a cup of tea. The particles in the tea matched the nylon and polyethylene terephthalate in the original tea bag.

jatupronAdobeStock.com

Safer alternatives include steeping loose teas with a stainless steel or silicone tea strainer, or purchasing tea from brands that offer plastic-free teabags. Organic teas may still have plastic in the tea bag, as the packaging is not overseen by organic-certifying organizations.

photo courtesy of Wikipedia

erome LABOUYRIEShutterStock.com

Greener Grilling

The aroma of tasty treats sizzling on an outdoor grill evokes memories of laughter among family and friends, picnic tables brimming with colorful foods and the joy of running barefoot in the grass. This year, consider adding a few eco-friendly upgrades to America’s favorite summer tradition

Fuel Source Matters

The biggest environmental impact from outdoor grilling comes from the fuel source. Here is a handy comparison of the options.

n Charcoal briquettes are little chunks of carbon made by baking wood byproducts, sawdust and other additives. Charcoal burns inefficiently and produces caustic smoke before and after the useful temperature for cooking. To reduce the carbon footprint, consider sustainably sourced bamboo or coconut shells to flame up the barbie.

n Gas grills burn fossil fuels like propane or natural gas. On the other hand, they produce fewer carbon emissions than charcoal, heat more quickly and can be turned off immediately.

n Electric grills may seem more eco-friendly for backyard cookouts, but most electricity is derived from fossil fuels. If the home runs on renewable energy, electric wins. Otherwise, gas grills have a smaller carbon footprint.

n Infrared is the latest in barbecue technology. These pricey outdoor grills can reach high temperatures quickly, use less fuel and cook foods evenly. Because they use electric or gas heating elements that radiate infrared waves to the food, they generally run for less time than other grills. One drawback is that their high temperatures can easily overcook or burn foods, especially ingredients that don’t need high temperatures, like fish, vegetables and other seafood.

Cleaning Is Paramount

Regardless of the fuel source, it is important to keep the grill free of grease and food particles to prevent more smoke. When the grill is still warm, clean the grates with a wire brush. If grates are already cool, scrub with baking soda and water.

Caramelized Fruits and Vegetables

Burgers and ribs may be synonymous with traditional cookouts, but the modern barbecue menu isn’t all about meat. Recipes abound for grilled veggies and fruits that lend a delicious smoky and caramelized flavor to these nutritious foods. Embrace the appeal of slightly charred corn on the cob, browned portobello mushrooms and grill-marked pineapple. If meat-free burgers won’t please the crowd, look for certified organic, grass-fed and locally raised meats.

Conscious Fatherhood

BUILDING A BETTER FAMILY

by Julie Peterson

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

Photo courtesy of Chris Smith

“All men desire to be loved, valued, needed and respected, and to know they are leaving a mark on this world. Many men look for this fulfillment in career and hobbies, but this can be found by embracing their role as fathers,” says Ned Schaut, the Hawaii-based author of The Adventure of Fatherhood. He notes that the way fathers choose to live and perform their parental roles can affect a family for generations. Learning what fatherhood entails isn’t easy for men that grew up without involved dads, which may leave them doubting that they have what it takes to lead their families. “There are endless resources to help us in our businesses or careers, but our society doesn’t get behind the message that strong families matter, that present, engaged fathers matter,” says Chris Smith, founder of Campfire Effect, a coaching business for entrepreneurs in Arizona. “In business, we apply principles around values, culture, leadership and growth, and then we go home and don’t apply these same principles.”

Define Values

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

Smith Family Brand Statements

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

n Smiths can talk about anything without judgment.

n Smiths are kindhearted.

n Smiths are creators.

n Smiths do hard things.

n Smiths are healthy and active.

n Smiths love and support one another.

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

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

A mission statement hangs on the wall at the home of Ben Greenfield, the Washington-based author of Boundless Parenting: Tools, Tactics and Habits of Great Parents. “It’s a collection of the family values, what the family stands for and holds dear, and what the parents want to pass on to their children,” he explains.

These kinds of value statements help promote positive energy in the home. “If the language spoken at home is limiting and negative, those words become energy that create more of that. We need to use language that is about confidence, kindheartedness and teamwork,” says Smith.

Balance Priorities

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

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

Greenfield stacks his priorities in this order: faith first, followed by his relationship with his spouse, family, health and business. His time is meticulously scheduled so that he can dedicate quality time to all of his priorities. He regularly

involves his kids in his spiritual practice and exercise routines to set an example and instill positive habits.

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

Discipline With Love

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

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

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

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

Dr. Mark Hyman

ON LIVING HEALTHY TO 100 AND BEYOND

by Sandra Yeyati

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

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

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

What are the hallmarks of aging?

In my book I wrote about 10 hallmarks of aging, which are all part of one ecosystem of problems. They’re not separate; they influence each other; and they’re dynamic. It’s things like

inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, zombie cells, shortened telomeres, microbiome changes and epigenetic changes, which are changes in how our genes are expressed. They’re all important, but the most important hallmark of aging is called deregulated nutrient sensing, which means how our body interacts with food and how that influences us for good or bad. Problems with nutrient sensing affect almost all the other hallmarks and make them worse.

How can we address deregulated nutrient sensing?

We have built-in longevity pathways and over 3,000 survival genes, and we can activate this innate healing intelligence at

Photo by Masha Maltsava

any time. A major way to influence four of these pathways is through food. I call them longevity switches, which we need to learn how to regulate to make our health span equal our lifespan.

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

The next one is mTOR [mammalian target of rapamycin], a pathway that makes new proteins and builds muscle, but gets overstimulated because of our constant eating and snacking and eating before bed. mTOR needs to be inhibited periodically by intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating to allow autophagy to happen, which is like a recycling and repair crew that comes in at night and cleans up all the damaged proteins.

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

What is the role of exercise in longevity?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What longevity strategies do you implement on a typical day?

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

Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.

Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.

~Albert Einstein

WHAT EVERY MAN WANTS SEXUAL VITALITY AT EVERY AGE

by Carrie Jackson

For men, sexual health is a key, but often overlooked, component of overall wellness. A man in optimal physical shape is able to fully enjoy and participate in sexual activity with an active libido and the ability to sustain an erection. Poor sexual health can lead to depression, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and other troublesome symptoms and conditions. Fortunately, male sexual function is better understood medically than ever before, and it is more common for men to talk with their doctors and other professionals about topics that seemed taboo not that long ago. New technology is making it easier to diagnose and treat common problems, and it is widely understood that physical, neurological, hormonal, interpersonal and mental factors all play into sexual wellness. By taking a proactive and holistic approach to their overall wellness, men can enjoy a robust sex drive and performance long into their later years.

Maintaining Libido and Energy

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

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

will make you more energetic, stronger, more passionate and present with your partners, and you’ll have more energy to be sexual and loving,” he says.

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

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

Optimizing Hormones

According to Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist in Sarasota, Florida, strong sexual health and desire is a window to overall health. He helps patients reach their sexual potential with a combination of science-based medicine and holistic practices. “The body is one connected system, and great sexual function is an indication that your body is optimized,” he advises.

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

“The body produces over 50 hormones, which all contribute to regulating biological processes,” he explains. “Low testosterone can lead to weight gain, anxiety, erectile dysfunction and other serious health issues, including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Men want to optimize their thyroid and DHT [dihydrotestosterone] levels, both of which can lower the sex drive when compromised.

Vitamin D helps regulate the gut, which controls the health of the entire body. Neurotransmitters, which help release feel-good endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine, are made in the gut and can affect depression, anxiety and other issues that lower libido.”

Gapin stresses that it is more important to think about “optimal” levels of hormones instead of “normal” ranges and encourages patients to move beyond the basic blood tests to assess their health.

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

Treating Prostate Cancer

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

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

“Traditionally, patients would have the prostate removed and undergo radiation. However, these procedures come with a list of disturbing side effects. A newer, FDA-approved treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive

procedure that eradicates prostate cancer,” Gapin notes. “HIFU is an outpatient procedure with excellent oncologic outcomes, minimal side effects and quick recovery times.”

Incorporating Lifestyle Solutions

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

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

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

Forbes cautions that while erectile dysfunction drugs work in the short-term, they can produce unwanted consequences. “Viagra

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

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

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

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com

Allistair F/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com

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

Converting Food to E nergy

LEARNING HOW METABOLISM WORKS

by Linda Sechrist

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

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

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

James Forleo, a doctor of chiropractic and author of Health Is Simple, Disease Is Complicated, recommends the elimination of certain foods that wreak havoc on our

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

metabolism: “The inflammatory agents in much of the food consumed in the Standard American Diet—high-glycemic refined carbohydrates, high-fructose corn syrup and other sugars, and hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats—are the biggest offenders of metabolic health.”

Correcting Liver Function

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

Fixing the liver is the central focus of Christianson’s 28-day metabolism reset. “To correct a fatty liver, you need adequate protein and adequate nutrients, but a low enough amount of total carbohydrates

CHICKEN CURRY

Yield: 1 serving

1 cup vegetables (mushrooms, leeks, onion or cauliflower), chopped

1 chicken breast, diced

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp mild or medium curry powder

1 tsp garam masala

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp ground ginger

1 garlic clove

Vegetable stock

If using cauliflower, parboil the florets and keep the water they were boiled in. Heat the spices in a dry pan until fragrant. Add garlic and vegetables and coat with spices. Add some oil and pour in some vegetable stock (or the cauliflower water) to deglaze the pan. Cook covered for a few minutes until spices and liquid are well combined and the vegetables are coated evenly. Add the diced chicken. Simmer until the chicken is cooked, stirring regularly. Add more vegetable stock or water for a thinner sauce. Serve with some toasted rye bread to soak up the juices.

Recipes and photos courtesy of Metabolic Balance

Pelvic Floor physio is the first line of defense for:

• Urinary Incontinence

• Postpartum Weakened Muscles

• Sexual Health (Men & Women)

• Erectile Dysfunction effectively stimulates pelvic floor muscles, comparable to 11,000 Kegels in one treatment.

3 Fully-clothed

3 Non-invasive

3 No downtime

3 FDA-approved

and healthy fats,” he says. “You also need adequate levels of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that we get from the food we eat. My metabolism reset guides you in eating less refined and processed foods, and more real, nutritious food; pairing carbohydrates with protein; exercising; managing stress levels; and avoiding sugar.”

Personalized Diet Plan and Nutritional Coaching

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

“Based on an individual’s personal medical history and blood levels, we determine what substances the body lacks to produce all the enzymes and hormones necessary for their bodily functions,” she explains. “The personal roadmap recommends the right combination of foods to keep the various bodily functions in balance. The foods aren’t based on their caloric content, but rather on their essential components such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and the relationship between carbohydrates, fats and proteins.”

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

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

Deborah A. DeMarta, MD

“With EMsella, I can jump, laugh, sneeze & run, without the fear of leaking.”

ARUGULA SALAD WITH MANGO DRESSING

YIELD: 1 SERVING

1½ cup arugula

¼ cup olives, pitted

1 Tbsp chopped shallots

1 mango

Balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

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

NEM LUI HUE (LEMONGRASS SKEWERS WITH PORK OR CHICKEN)

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1 lb ground pork

or chicken

1 Tbsp finely minced

garlic

1 Tbsp finely minced

shallot

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

12-15 stalks of lemongrass

Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients, except the lemongrass stalks, in a bowl and mix with hands or a fork. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight), allowing the flavors to develop.

Peel the outer layer of the lemongrass stalks. Rinse in water and dry. Take one handful of the ground mixture and wrap it around the end of a lemongrass stalk, gently pressing and molding the meat around the stalk. Repeat with the remaining meat and place on a baking sheet. Grill skewers over coals or on a gas grill for about 6 to 10 minutes until cooked through. Make sure to rub the grill with a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to ensure the skewers don’t stick to the grate.

Keeping Eyes Sharp A

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO VISION HEALTH

by Carrie Jackson

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

Dr. Marc Grossman co-founded NaturalEyeCare.com to educate professionals and the public about complementary eye care, which can supplement traditional methods. As both a licensed optometrist and acupuncturist, he believes that the health of the eye depends on the well-being of a person’s entire body. “I treat the person behind the eye, not just the condition. When a patient comes in with glaucoma or a cataract, I look at their history and lifestyle choices to see what could be contributing to it,” he says.

Proper nutrition is crucial for proper eye function. Grossman recommends what he calls a “vision diet” based on the Mediterranean diet, which cuts down on sugar and prioritizes organic, low-alkaline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not feeling like yourself anymore? Gaining weight, no matter what you do? Tired, have brain fog, moody

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

If you need support in getting your life back, apply for a free clarity call to see if we are the right fit at https://you.feelgoodagaincourses.com/ foundations-program.

(formerly HowToLiveYounger.com) “I

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

Socially Conscious Investing

HOW TO CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE STOCKS AND MUTUAL FUNDS

by Sheila Julson

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

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

investment, they also seek to support corporations that spread kindness, protect (or do not pollute) the environment and support women, minorities and LGBTQ+ people.

strategies. He also encourages a visit to As You Sow (AsYouSow. org/invest-your-values) to help investors find the companies and mutual funds that align with their social and environmental principles, and to steer clear of those that don’t.

“Most people invest in companies through fund structures via retirement plans or online brokerages,” Young explains.

“Through As You Sow, they have search tools that help interested investors determine if they own funds that include companies in fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing or other industries one might not want to invest in.”

Young recommends that new investors start by determining which social and environmental issues matter most to them. From there, tools such as the free US SIF sustainable investing course (ussif.org/courses_individualinvestors) offer an overview of sustainable investing, as well as investment options and

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

Diedrich advises investors to use the same criteria that they would use with any fund, whether traditional or sustainable.

“Vote with your pocketbook,” the saying goes, prompting consumers to buy parkas from planet-friendly Patagonia or socks by Bombas, which donates a pair to homeless shelters for every pair purchased. When choosing stocks and mutual funds, a growing number of investors don’t just want to get a good return on their

Canva.com

“It’s important that you look at a sustainable fund in that same way, because it is an investment with your money,” she says. “Ultimately, it needs to be driven by clients’ personal choices, as well as their financial goals.”

Sustainable Investing Goes Mainstream

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

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

Aligned Asset Owners, meaning that they also support net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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

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

Tried every diet plan?

Not losing weight, no matter what you do?

Do you lose weight and gain it back the next year?

IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT!

Hormones, Adrenals, and Digestion play havoc with your metabolic system making it impossible to get the weight off.

I have the solution for losing up to 1 pound of fat a day. And, it works! 99% of the women in my Program lose 20 pounds in the first 6 weeks and keep it off!

If you are ready to get your body back, feel good in clothes again and increase your self-esteem, apply for a free call to see if we are a fit.

Ready to take steps to change this? Book a Drop20 in 6TM call with me at: https://marcellepick.com/drop20-in-6

Marcelle Pick, OB GYN, NP

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

Straighten Up and Feel Right

TIPS FOR GOOD POSTURE AND A HEALTHY SPINE

by Cristina Parker, PT, DPT

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

The Spine and Its Role in Posture

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

Muscle tightness or joint immobility can shift the spine out of its ideal positioning, causing postural dysfunction. A recent study published in the journal Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science estimates that 66 percent of the population is living with forward head posture (FHP), a cervical spine dysfunction that occurs when the head moves forward in front of the body. FHP can lead to headaches, migraines and jaw pain. Thoracic kyphosis, a rounded upper back, reportedly impacts 20 to 50 percent of the population and impairs numerous functions, including digestion and breathing. The lumbar spine is at particularly high risk for joint disease as both lumbar muscle strength and pelvic

Regenerative Organic Farming

mobility decrease in sedentary individuals. Low back and pelvic immobility are contributing factors for the estimated 103 million individuals worldwide that live with lumbar spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that may cause pain or numbness in the legs.

Three-Step Process to Take Control of Our Posture

STEP ONE: IDENTIFICATION

In her book Rethink Your Position, biomechanist Katy Bowman recommends that we pay attention to a few common signals the body sends out to alert us to an imbalanced weight distribution, including aches in the feet or low back and tension of the shoulders or neck. “Good alignment isn’t about any one fixed position, but a healthy range of positions,” she says. “By focusing less on memorizing postures and more on learning about load on parts of the body, you can optimize your positioning for many different activities.” Bowman recommends a quick and easy way to self-assess if a postural imbalance is present and, if so, to identify where the imbalance begins: “The body’s joints stack in a vertical line. You can use a plumb line to indicate where your parts are supposed to be. If you take a string with a weight at the end and drop it down from your shoulder, it should line up with the hip, knee and ankle on the way down.”

STEP TWO: CORRECTION

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

1. Neck retraction: Push the head forward away from the wall as

far as possible, then pull it back so the base of the skull contacts the wall. Keep the eyes parallel to the horizon, rather than looking up toward the sky.

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

3. Pelvic tilt: Arch the back so there is a small space between the wall and the lower spine, then tuck in the tail, flattening the spine against the wall and closing that space. This exercise helps initiate movement into the lower joints.

STEP THREE: MAINTENANCE

The key to maintaining a healthy posture is frequent movement, which can include an hourly stretch break or a bi-hourly range-of-motion routine to move muscles and joints throughout the day. To make postural exercises a habit, physical therapist and integrative health coach Margie Bissinger recommends pairing an exercise routine with something that is already done multiple times a day–for example, mealtime. “People are busy, so it is hard to always dedicate that mental space to awareness of their head or back position,” she states. “When they pair it with something they’re routinely doing, it becomes a habit, and that is when the mental load of the task starts to go away.”

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

calendar of events

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

Qi Gong — 10:30-11:15am. It promotes an overall sense of well-being, vitality, and inner calm through slow-flowing movements, breathing, and meditation — balancing life energy. $15. Herbs & Owls, 725 N. Highway A1A, D-103, Jupiter. 561-768-9005. HerbsAndOwls.com/classes.

TUESDAY, JUNE 6, 13 & 20

Guided Meditation —10-11:30am. Relax your mind and body. Class lead by Gina Kearney and includes guided imagery, vibrational flower essences, and sound therapy. $55. Herbs & Owls, 725 N. Highway A1A, D-103, Jupiter. 561-768-9005. HerbsAndOwls.com/classes.

mark your calendar JOURNEY INTO SPIRIT RETREAT

Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

July 20 to 25, 2023

Take a life-changing journey of self-knowledge with the Transformational Studies Institute

Rejuvenate your spiritual practices in beautiful forests with powerful group processes, breathwork, hiking, meditation, yoga, drumming and more!

Includes 5 nights at the peaceful Elohee Retreat Center with meals prepared by local chefs. Facilitated by renowned retreat leaders, Sari Terrusa, LMHC & Native American educator, Alfreda Beartrack, PhD. Register: TSIJupiter.com or 561-744-9123

ongoing events

tuesday

Holistic Wellness Circle for Families and Adults in Nature –6–8pm. Free. Participate in stillness and mindful movement in nature. Cocoplum Nature School, 342 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 828-423-3408. Childcare provided on site. SoilAndSoul.org.

Facebook Live Shop from Home –6:30-8:30pm. Enjoy some community, comic relief, and retail therapy all in one! Margaret Ann, Cait, and Katrina show a wide selection of unique products from their shelves. on.fb. me/1I2Tql5. Free. TheCrystalGarden. com/product/facebook-live-shop-fromhome

thursday

Virtual Health Talk with Naturopath

Ahuva Gamliel (Dr. G.) — 9-9:30am. Free. We will cover different health topics every third Thursday monthly, followed by Q&A. ZOOM ID: 838 039 7818 Passcode: M3WM0n. tinyurl.com/DrGamliel

saturday

Create Powerful Crystal Grids –9-11am. $40 deposit for Crystal Grid materials. Manifest your intentions. Selection/arrangement of crystals guided by Rena Joy. Soothe Your Soul, 835 Donald Ross Rd, Juno Beach. Limited registrations 561-650-2226. facebook. com/sootheyoursouljunobeach.

classifieds

Kindly use our online form to order. NApalmbeach.com/pages/ classifieds.

EMPLOYMENT

SEEKING MATURE INDIVIDUAL –part time retail position, Soothe Your Soul Juno, Email resume CustomerService@ SootheYourSoul.com.

FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE IN ESTABLISHED MIND/BODY CENTER – Jupiter. Large shareable space, wi-fi, waiting area. 561-744-9123.

HUGE TREATMENT ROOM FOR LEASE – in Boynton Beach holistic salon/ spa. 561-270-3803

PETS

MINI/MICRO LABRADOODLE – nonshedding, soft coat, hypoallergenic. Both parents on premises. Call Wendee 561876-5957.

RESPONSES....

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD HERE – With Natural Awakenings Magazine , get real results, distributing monthly throughout Palm Beach County. Call 561-626-5584.

ACUPUNCTURE

GARDENS WHOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Bill Rice, DC, LAc, DCBCN

4360 Northlake Blvd., 2nd Floor Palm Beach Gardens, 33410

561-439-6644

Healthy-Answers.com

Experience Feeling Great!

Dr. Rice – a wholistic physician serving patients since 1977 using Acupuncture, Kinesiology, Gentle Chiropractic care and Nutritional Counseling. We Listen • We Care

• We Get Results.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

THE HEALING CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

16244 S. Military Trail, Suite 120 Delray Beach FL 33484

561-498-1414

DoctorEsther49@gmail.com

Elishea.com

Dr. Esther Elisha, AP is a Hadassah Medical School graduate MD practicing alternative medicine.

• Acupuncture

• Homeopathy

• Holistic Therapy • Tailored Wellness Programs

• Pain Management

• General Health Enhancement

We accept all major insurance companies. Call to see if yours covers acupuncture!

ANIMAL CHIROPRACTIC

JAMROCK CHIROPRACTIC

Elizabeth Munroe, DC

978-791-3339, West Palm Beach JamrockChiropractic@gmail.com

Trust your intuition and prevent problems for your pets with a nervous system check at Jamrock Chiropractic. Also offering Reiki sessions. Call for an appointment.

ASSISTED LIVING

COURTYARD GARDENS OF JUPITER

1790 Indian Creek Drive West, Jupiter 561-743-5966

Marketing@CourtyardGardens.com

CourtyardGardens.com

Courtyard Gardens Of Jupiter offers Assisted Living, Memory Care, Adult Day Care, & Respite for your loved ones. Peace of mind for you and a Piece of Adventure for your loved ones.

BEAUTY & HEALTH

ONENESS PERFUME

OnenessPerfume.com

Oneness ~ Let the beauty of this essence and its message inspire peaceful co-existence; may it encircle all nations and all peoples with the loving gift of gratitude to encourage co-creation and renewal of our sacred planetary home –knowing in spirit – We Are All One. See ad page 2.

CANNABIS — MEDICAL MARIJUANA

DELIA WEISS MD & WELLNESS

Delia Weiss

500 Gulfstream Blvd., Suite 202 Delray Beach, FL 33483

561-243–8783

Info@DeliaWeissMD.com

DeliaWeissMD.com

Holistic Medical Cannabis consultation, rapid certification, guidance, treatment for many conditions including: Sleep; Pain; Stress; Cancer therapy sideeffects; Medicine side-effects. $155.00. Call or Text 561-243-8783; or Email: Info@DeliaWeissMD.com

CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN

INNER HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC, LLC

Dr. Kristina Jensen, DC, Reiki Master

1000 Linton Blvd., Suite A7

Delray Beach, FL 33444

561-272-0388

InnerHealthChiropractic@hotmail.com

IHCChiro.com

Serving South Palm Beach County since 1992. We are committed to providing our patients with healthcare that is effective and affordable in a friendly and family oriented environment.

CHRONIC PAIN SPECIALIST

DONATELLI WELLNESS CENTER

James Donatelli, Pain Specialist

200 Hypoluxo Rd, Suite 104

Hypoluxo, FL 33462

561-221-7123

DonatelliWellness.com

Real Solutions for Persistent Chronic Pain from Accidents, Sports Injuries, Sciatica, Scoliosis, Disk Herniations and/or Emotional Trauma. Drug-Free Program. Free Phone Consultation. MA69175. See ad pages 17 and 18.

COACH

MARCIE ANDERSON MASTERY

Marcie Anderson, PhD

415-418-4358, West Palm Beach

MarcieAndersonMastery.com

Achieve your Higher Calling. Blending East/West practices & modalities through coaching, personalized meditation practices, yoga, and pure, ancient vedic spiritual knowledge. By Appointment.

COMPRESSION SOCKS

GO COMPRESSION

Info@GoCompressionLab.com

GoCompressionLab.com

All-day wear, breathable compression socks made of durable fabric, mesh design, seamless woven construction. Leg protection and support. Promotes blood circulation and muscle recovery.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. Order online: NApalmbeach.com/pages/directory

natural awakenings directory

CONSCIOUS TREE TRIMMING

WOODY’S CREW TREE AND LANDSCAPE

561-325-8917

WoodysTreeCrew@gmail.com

WoodysTreeCrew.com

Experienced, Licensed and Insured. ISA Certified Arborist Techniques Used. Trees Big or Small We Do Them All! See ad page 8.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

EILEEN YOCHEVED HANDE, BS, MA, LMT

Back in Balance

7035 Beracasa Way, Ste 104 Boca Raton, FL 33433

561-715-6185

BodyMassageAndBeyond.com

Upledger Certified CranioSacral Therapy for All Ages and Alternative Pain Management/ Advanced Manual Therapies. I have developed innovative approaches to Pain Relief through the integration of these Advanced Healing Therapies for the treatment of: Trauma/Anxiety, Stress, Migraines, TMJ, Car Accident Injuries, Sciatica, Neck/Back Pain, etc. Since 1993.

MA14975, MM10999

DATING

REVOLUTION DATING

Kelly Leary, M.S. Clinical Psychology

5090 PGA Blvd #208, Palm Beach Gardens

561-630-XOXO (9696)

772-932-HERE (4373)

RevolutionDating.com

Attention: Single, divorced, and widowed readers! This awardwinning matchmaking firm has 31 years of experience bringing quality singles together. Their clientele ranges from young professionals to seniors from South Florida through the Treasure Coast. If you would like to find love offline — call today to book your private consultation.

DENTAL HEALTH

GO NATURAL DENTISTRY

Yolanda Cintron, DMD

2021 E Commercial Blvd., Ste. 208 Fort Lauderdale FL 33308

855-381-6001

954-945-7355 (new patients)

GoNaturalDentistry.com

All phases of dentistry for optimum health, holistic, biocompatible dentistry.

• Sedation dentistry • Removing of toxic metals • Replacing them with bio-compatible materials

• Laser dentistry for painless surgeries & extractions • Zirconia/ ceramic implants • Natural bone augmentation / Plasma Rich Growth Factor • Oral DNA Testing • Add gums to receding gums.

ENERGY HEALING

LOVE AND HEALING ENERGY

2196 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach

561-270-1850

LoveAndHealingEnergy.com

Fibromyalgia, Back Pain, Arthritis, Depression quelled with our 24Unit Energy Enhancement System (EESystem), Scalar & BioPhotonic frequencies. Nonmedical. Non-invasive. First session $40, mention Natural Awakenings.

THE ENERGY ROOM

200 W Palmetto Park Rd, Suite 204

Boca Raton, FL 33432

561-210-0502

TheEnergyRoom.org

The Energy Enhancement System combines Body, Mind, Spirit, and Science to help you achieve peak performance and reach higher states of health, consciousness, and self-actualization.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

MERNA MATILSKY, M.D.

Boca Center for Healthy Living

2900 N. Military Trail, Suite 245

Boca Raton, FL 33431

561-994-2007

BocaMed.com

Facebook.com/bocaimaginewellness

Services Provided by Dr. Matilsky include Integrative Medicine, Age Management Medicine, BioIdentical Hormone Therapy, Healthy Lifestyle Management, and Weight Loss Programs. Call for details on attending a free seminar on the Solution to Imbalanced Hormones.

TRUE SOURCE HEALING

Paula Centofanti, PA-C

954-779-4498

Paula@TrueSourceHealing.org

TrueSourceHealing.org

Tried Everything? Still can’t lose weight, suffer from rapid aging, joint pain, digestives issues? Schedule your free discovery call and Finally Heal! Virtual/ telehealth visits.

HERB MEDICINE

HERBS & OWLS

Gina Kearney, RH (AHG), Clinical Herbalist 725 N Hwy A1A, D-10, Jupiter, FL 33477

561-768-9005

HerbsAndOwls.com

Offering Private Herbal Consults, Flower Essence Therapy and Herbal & Shamanism classes. Visit our Herb Shop with 200+ herbs, barks, flowers & roots plus, tinctures, oils, crystals & more! See ad page 13.

HOLISTIC HAIR SALON

GLISTEN ORGANIC SALON

14545 S. Military Trail

Phenix Salon Suites, Suite 102 Delray Beach, FL 33484

561-767-0371

GlistenOrganic@gmail.com

GlistenSalon.com

“Where nature and beauty meet.” A hidden jewel in the heart of Central Delray. Come and relax in the serene, private environment while receiving the finest in organic and conventional services and products. Let our experience and professionalism guide you to Delray’s First and Best Organic Salon. Celebrating 12 years! See ad page 15.

HAIR HOLISTIC ECO-FRIENDLY STUDIO

Ibana Villasenor

141 NW 20th St., Ste. B7

Boca Raton FL 33431

561-372-5354

HairHolistic@gmail.com

HairHolistic.com

Hair services & products with a truly holistic approach like scalphair detox, and jet rejuvenation. Hair coloring with Henna or ecofriendly dyes, and formaldehydefree keratine.

HOLISTIC VETERINARIAN

HEALING HEART

Nancy A. Keller, DVM, CVH, CVA, CVC

222 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33435

561-740-1313

561-740-0819, fax

INTUITIVE HEALER

JANE GRAY FORD

561-827-3319

JaneGrayFord.com

SOUND THERAPY

CENTER FOR CONSCIOUS THINKING & CONSCIOUS LIVING

Mi Sun Donahue

Integration of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Medicine. Holistic Veterinary Care for our animal friends. See ads on page 17 & 18. By appointment only.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

DEBORAH A. DEMARTA, MD, FACS, FAARFM

Institute of Health & Wellness

218 SW Atlanta Ave, Stuart, FL 34994

772-539-9556

InstituteHealthWellness.com

Anti-Aging, Functional and Regenerative Medicine. Colorectal Surgery and Functional GI, hormone replacement, food allergy and nutritional testing, IV vitamin therapy, heavy metals testing, medical aesthetics, THERMIva vaginal rejuvenation, ThermiSmooth skin tightening, HALO skin resurfacing, BBL BroadBand Light skin therapy, laser hair removal, botox and fillers, skin care, weight loss. See ad page 20.

INTUITIVE CONSULTANT

DR. DEBORAH ARMENTI

561-285-1479, Fort Lauderdale AMysticalAge@yahoo.com

AMysticalAge.com

Clairvoyant/Psychic/Medium/ Medical Astrologer

Guidance that helps you with when, what, and why of past and present experiences. Be empowered to a higher level of mind. Expertise includes guidance on paving the way for a more fulfilling future, in relationships, family, finance, spiritual/ health, path fulfillment and life purpose.

It’s all about energy! Blockages occur in the physical body through karma, genetics, or experiences. Ford uses Hypnosis and an Intuitive understanding of energy frequencies to help heal her clients.

MIND BODY SPIRIT WELLNESS

HEALING MOMENTS HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER

“A Mind, Body,Spirit Oasis”

Tracy McDonough MSW LMT

3200 N Federal Hwy #107, Boca Raton 561-931-2187

Spa@HealingMomentsFL.com

HealingMomentsFL.com

We offer Holisitc Life, Health and Mindset Coaching, Vibroacoustic Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage and Post Surgery Treatment, Energy & Chakra Healing, Meditation, BEMER Therapy, Bio-Well Biofield Scans, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, Kangen Water, and other healing products and services. Calm your nervous system, reduce stress, manage pain, and detox. MM36169, MA27196

PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

DELIA WEISS MD & WELLNESS

500 Gulfstream Blvd., Suite 202 Delray Beach, FL 33483 561-243–8783

Info@DeliaWeissMD.com

DeliaWeissMD.com

Internal Medicine, Primary Care, and Holistic Health for adults. Acute/chronic illness treated. Blood vessel health. Nutrition, Weight, Anti-aging, Dementia prevention, Nutrient supplement consultation.

We take a proactive health and wellness approach. Telemedicine and private medical text messaging. Home visits for Medicare homebound. We accept insurances, Medicare, and direct pay.

781-367-5421, Lake Park

MiSunsYoga@gmail.com

MiSuns.com

Sound Therapy — removes blockages to heal. Special instruments create frequencies focused on healing, boosting the immune system, and more. Additional services: Yoga, Energy Healing.

SPIRITUAL BOOKSTORE

THE CRYSTAL GARDEN

2610 N Federal Hwy., Boynton Beach, FL 561-369-2836

TheCrystalGarden.com

A unique gift store, book store, and spiritual center with more than 50 events a month. Check the calendar and website for listings. See ad page 8.

TANTRA

LOURDES STARSHOWER

561-843-1261

LourdesTantra@gmail.com

TantraHealerFlorida.com

Lourdes Starshower is an Advanced Certified Tantra Educator and Founder of the Ecstatic Dakini Tantra Practitioner Certification Program. Sacred Sexuality Coach, Relationship Coach, Clairvoyant Energy Healer, Ordained Minister, Hypnotherapist and EMDR Therapist. Video program, “Tantra Practices for Divine Ecstasy.” Private PBG office or Zoom meetings. A free phone consultation available.

Krista Burns, DC Tarin Forbes, DO, ABFM, ABAARM, FAARFM, ABOIM