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Dear Valued Readers,
As we step into the promise of 2025, this January issue brings you a carefully curated collection of articles that speak to the heart of human potential and wellbeing.
In the article Revolutionizing Accessibility, we witness the dawn of a new era in assistive technology. From NeuroVision Pro’s groundbreaking “digital sight” to ThoughtSpeak’s innovative mind-to-voice communication system, these advances are reshaping lives and creating pathways to independence. What makes these developments particularly noteworthy is their potential to transform daily experiences into opportunities for connection and achievement. The marriage of cutting-edge technology with human-centered design demonstrates how far we’ve come in creating solutions that don’t just assist, but truly empower. Turn to page 24 to explore how these remarkable innovations are building a more inclusive world for all.
dietary choices can create profound shifts in your daily emotional landscape.
Perhaps most fitting for this season of renewal, the feature article Returning to Innocence Through Beginner’s Mindset introduces us to the transformative power of “shoshin”. This exploration of fresh perspectives and intentional living awaits you on page 16, offering practical ways to embrace new possibilities in the year ahead. The article delves deep into how this ancient wisdom can be applied to modern challenges—from career transitions to personal relationships—showing how maintaining curiosity and openness can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and profound personal growth.
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Understanding the deeply personal journey of fertility, our feature Advancing a Couple’s Fertility offers hope and practical guidance for couples navigating this path. Natural approaches to fertility enhancement, from nutrition optimization to lifestyle modifications, are thoughtfully presented by experts Nashat Latib and Aumatma Simmons. Find this enlightening discussion beginning on page 22. The connection between diet and emotional wellbeing takes center stage in Foods for Better Moods. The science behind nutrition’s impact on mental health unfolds on page 12, where you’ll discover how simple
As people embark on this new year together, remember that each page of this issue holds the potential to inspire positive change in your life. The transformative wisdom and profound narratives remind us that innovation, healing, and personal growth are not just possibilities—they are the core elements of pathways already unfolding before us.
Looking forward to 2025, imagine unprecedented opportunities for advancement in both technology and human consciousness. May this year bring you discoveries that enhance your life and connections that enrich your journey.
“Every moment is a fresh beginning.”
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MESSAGES FROM YOUR LOVED ONES
Spend the afternoon with Spiritual Medium Danielle Schwartz as she shares messages from your loved ones and m
Holistic Health & Healing Expo Offers A Day Of Wellness & Inspiration
GROW YOUR BUSINESS
The highly anticipated Holistic Health & Healing Expo will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on January 19, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, in Deerfield Beach. This transformative event promises an exciting day for wellness enthusiasts, holistic practitioners and sustainable living advocates, all coming together to explore functional health and conscious living.
With more than 60 vendors and over 25 engaging workshops, the expo provides countless opportunities to connect with experts in functional and integrative medicine, holistic dentistry, spine health and nutrition. Attendees can also experience services from naturopaths, spiritual coaches and practitioners offering card readings and reiki sessions.
Sustainable vendors will be on-site showcasing eco-friendly products and services designed to promote a healthier planet. Each workshop is thoughtfully crafted to educate and inspire, covering topics such as holistic approaches to nurturing the mind, body, soul and environment, as well as cutting-edge health innovations and spiritual practices.
The expo creates a vibrant space for personal and planetary wellness, fostering meaningful connections within a like-minded community.
Location: 100 Fairway Dr., Deerfield Beach. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit soflo.hhhexpo.com. See ad page 17.
We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize. —Thich Nhat Hanh
Age-Related Balance Issues Studied
In a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, 40 adults over 50 completed gait, grip strength, knee strength and balance tests. The gait test consisted of a self-paced walk back and forth on an eight-meter-long walkway. The strength tests were performed seated on a custom-made device that isolated the wrist and knee of the participant’s dominant side. For the balance tests, participants stood on both legs with their eyes open for 30 seconds, then on both legs with their eyes closed for 30 seconds. With eyes open, they also stood on their dominant leg for 30 seconds, then switched to their non-dominant leg for another 30 seconds.
The researchers found that the one-legged test on the non-dominant leg showed the highest rate of decline with age. A diminishment in the ability to complete this one-legged balance test, especially for those that cannot balance for five seconds, indicates a significant propensity for falls that hospitalize millions of seniors each year.
Disadvantages of Food Pouches for Children
Sales of children’s food pouches with plastic spouts have increased by 900 percent since 2010 and now outsell jarred baby food purees. They are convenient, cost-effective and easy for kids to use without assistance. Traditionally, parents have spoon-fed pureed food from a jar for the first few months of a baby’s life. The pouches contain a single ingredient or a mix of vegetables, grains, yogurt and meat.
A 2019 study in Nutrition Today found that the food pouches they examined contained significantly more added sugar and fruit juice concentrate than jarred and other packaged toddler foods. Healthcare professionals have raised concerns that overreliance on the pouches could interfere with nutrition; long-term food preferences; dental hygiene, because the soft food sticks to teeth before being washed away; and speech and language development, as children miss the opportunity to manipulate their tongue and jaw when swallowing lumpy, textured foods. Children reliant on the smooth, sweet taste delivered by the pouches may also develop aversions to natural fruits and vegetables.
Homeopathic Treatment for COVID-19
A clinical audit conducted by Health Services Research sought to assess the effectiveness of homeopathic interventions administered in 2020 for 305 outpatients with COVID-19 symptoms. Homeopathy is the treatment of health conditions by minute doses of natural substances. As there is no standard homeopathic remedy, the treatments covered by the audit were individualized for each patient.
Published in Integrative Medicine Reports, the audit reported that 70 percent of the patients experienced a full recovery, while 14.4 percent showed no improvement. Most cases (74.4 percent) were resolved within 21 days and 29.2 percent were resolved in less than five days. The authors of the audit also noted that homeopathy was easy to administer and there were no adverse reactions.
Magnesium To Prevent Kidney Stones
In a study involving 76 adults published in the Natural Medicine Journal, researchers evaluated the effectiveness of magnesium supplements to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. The subjects were divided into three groups; two of the groups took 120 milligrams of either magnesium oxide or magnesium citrate three times a day for eight weeks, while a control group took a placebo. A urine analysis was performed on each participant at the start of the study and after eight weeks.
The researchers found that magnesium citrate significantly reduced 24-hour urine oxalate levels and calcium oxalate supersaturation—two indicators of kidney stone risk. A reduction in the urinary excretion of calcium is believed to reduce the chances of developing kidney stones.
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Nadzeya Haroshka from Getty Images
Elephants Mitigate Climate Change
African forest elephants, a smaller cousin of the savanna elephants that inhabit the dense rain forests of central Africa, are natural climatechange mitigators. They shape their forest habitats by dispersing seeds from large, carbon-storing trees through their dung. Some of the seeds of trees responsible for the greatest carbon sequestration do not germinate until they are digested by the elephants.
As they forage for food, African forest elephants trample the dense underbrush, which promotes the growth of taller, denser carbon-capturing trees. Because the litter left from foraging is not easily decomposed, more carbon is accumulated in the soil. A 2019 report in Nature Geoscience estimates that one forest elephant can increase net carbon capture capacity by almost 250 acres, the equivalent of one year’s worth of emissions from more than 2,000 cars. African forest elephants are critically endangered as a result of illegal poaching and habitat loss.
Innovations in Photonics
In the field of photonics—the science of light generation, manipulation and detection—two companies are working on innovative technologies that hold promise for future uses. Ambient Photonics, in California, was inspired by photosynthesis to develop a solar cell that can generate power from low-level ambient light rather than direct sunlight. These indoor solar cells use a special dye to absorb light and create energy, making them more versatile and efficient than traditional solar panels. Because they are thin, flexible and can be applied to most surfaces, they could potentially replace batteries.
Swiss-based Slux has developed a faster, safer and more versatile way to communicate and send data using streetlights. It is essentially a high-speed internet connection that travels via the same light used in parking lots or around buildings. This new technology could have many other applications in wide-ranging fields, from ocean research to air travel.
Smart Traffic Signals
Idling in a car waiting for the pre-timed traffic light to turn green can be frustrating, time consuming and a cause of air pollution. A 2023 simulation published in Applied System Innovation found that deploying smart traffic lights at a single key intersection in a small Portuguese city reduced CO2 emissions by 32 to 40 percent and wait times by 53 to 95 percent.
Smart traffic lights use a combination of sensors, including vehicle detectors, cameras, and light detection and ranging equipment (LiDAR) to collect traffic data, enabling artificial intelligence algorithms to make real-time adjustments that maximize traffic flow. The investment in these technologies is up to local governments. For example, in late 2023, the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments announced that they would upgrade 45 traffic signals in high-traffic areas in Butler County, Ohio.
Dire State of Earth’s Ice and Snow
In advance of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties (COP29) that took place in Azerbaijan last November, more than 60 leading scientists from the International Cryosphere Climate Initiative issued a report on the state of the planet’s snow and ice. The experts agreed that the frozen parts of Earth are in serious trouble.
Among the findings: Venezuela has lost its final glacier; the Greenland Ice Sheet is losing an average of 30 million tons of ice per hour; ice loss from the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica may be unstoppable; two-thirds of the glaciers in the European Alps will disappear by 2050; and 10 million people in Iceland, Alaska and Asia are at risk of flooding from melting glaciers. The scientists behind the report urged governments and citizens worldwide to phase out fossil fuels and finance climate action.
New Uses for Old T-Shirts
Many people have T-shirts that are faded, worn, torn, out of style or don’t fit anymore. Before throwing them out, consider giving them a new life as a useful item for personal or home use.
Scrunchie: Cut a 21-by-3.5-inch strip of fabric and fold it in half, lengthwise and inside-out. Sew the long edges together to make a tube. Turn the tube right-side-out. Thread an 8.75-by-one-quarter-inch piece of elastic through the tube and tie the ends of the elastic. Sew the ends of the tube together after folding in the edges to create an even seam.
Tote Bag: Start by cutting off the sleeves and neckline so the shirt resembles a tank top. This will be the top of the bag. Turn the shirt inside-out and mark a horizontal line across the shirt for the bottom
of the bag, leaving at least 2 inches below that line. Using scissors, cut threequarter-inch-wide vertical strips from the bottom of the shirt to the line drawn, cutting the front and back of the shirt at the same time. Take the first pair of fringe pieces (a front piece and its back piece) and tie them into a knot. Continue across until all of the pairs are tied. To further close any gaps, grab the top strand of the first tied set and tie it in a knot with the bottom strand of the set next to it. Repeat until all the strands are tied. Finally, flip the bag right-side-out again to hide the fringe. Alternately, to keep the fringe as a visible part of the bag, turn the shirt rightside-out before tying any pieces.
Dog Tug Toy: Using scissors, cut a shirt into thin strips, stretch the strips to reduce elasticity and then braid them together tightly.
Tie a knot at each end and play a game of tug-of-war with the dog.
Memory Quilt: Cut each shirt as close to the neckline as possible, in a consistent size with the graphics in the center. Organize and lay out the squares. Stitch or sew the T-shirts in columns, then sew the columns together. Add batting and backing. The other side of the T-shirts can be used as the backing fabric, if assembled the same way as the front.
Braided Basket: The first step is to create braided yarn. Cut the T-shirt into long strips about two inches wide, and stretch the fabric to increase length and reduce elasticity. Braid three strips together. To add new material, overlap the end of the new fabric strips with the end of the existing strips and sew or glue them together with fabric adhesive before continuing to braid. The second step is to arrange the braid in a circular or oval pattern to the desired size and use heavy-duty thread to sew the braid to make the bottom of the basket. Using another braid, sew it to the outside of the bottom of the basket and then upwards to make the sides. Add a doublebraided handle and sew it to the top of the basket.
Cleaning Cloths: For shirts too worn to upcycle, cut them into squares and use them as cleaning cloths. When they are dirty, throw them in the washing machine and reuse.
Allison Cherry from Getty
Landfill Revolution: From Ski Slopes To Solar Farms
by Dawn Carr
Landfills have for a long time now been seen with negativity, but thanks to innovative ideas being implemented across the globe, these sites are turning into useful social assets. Below are some inspiring examples of how trash mounds are being repurposed for recreation, renewable energy and more.
Skiing On Trash: CopenHill In Denmark. CopenHill, in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a waste-to-energy plant that also has an artificial ski slope for year-round skiing in a country that has no natural slopes. The facility incinerates waste to produce power and heat for households while serving as a novel leisure facility for the locals. The 85-meterhigh structure includes:
• A 450-meter ski slope (Europe’s longest)
• A glass elevator which offers views of the plant’s internal workings
• Hiking trails and the world's tallest climbing wall
• A restaurant and sky bar at the top with panoramic views of Copenhagen
• CopenHill is an excellent example of how industrial facilities can integrate aesthetically into cities while creating energy and recreational value.
Landfills as Solar Farms. In the United States, closed landfills are being repurposed as solar energy sites:
• The Sunnyside landfill in Houston, Texas, is being turned into a 52 MW solar plant, set to be the largest landfill solar plant in the U.S.
• A study by RMI estimates that closed landfills across the U.S. could host 63 GW of solar capacity, enough to power 7.8 million homes.
This approach enables communities to produce clean energy while utilizing barren land effectively. For instance, the Sunnyside
project is expected to create 600 jobs and revitalize an otherwise neglected community.
Waste-to-Energy Plants. Current landfills are increasingly being developed into waste-to-energy plants where trash is converted into power:
• The Amager Bakke plant in Copenhagen, which houses CopenHill, processes 440,000 tons of waste annually and produces electricity for 60,000 homes.
• Landfill gas capture systems collect methane from decomposing organic matter and use it for power generation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Parks and Recreation Areas. Many waste dumping grounds have been transformed into beautiful public gardens and recreational areas:
• Freshkills Park in New York City is converting a 2,200-acre landfill into an immense urban park.
• Shirley Chisholm Park in New York is built on a landfill and includes hiking trails, biking tracks and skyline viewpoints.
These projects not only revitalize disposed sites but also provide opportunities for physical activity in urban areas.
Urban Ski Areas. Other similar structures have been developed on landfills, including ski areas:
• Crystal Ridge Ski Area in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a ski and snowboarding facility built on a landfill, offering winter sports in the city.
Research and Education Centers. Some landfills have been reinvented as hubs for research and environmental learning:
• The Metabolon Project in Germany transformed the Leppe landfill into a state-ofthe-art waste management facility focusing on resource management and the circular economy.
Conclusion
These creative approaches to landfill utilization may hold important strategies for cities and countries:
• Landfills can be reused to benefit society by producing energy, recreation and employment.
• Innovation can change public perceptions of waste management facilities.
• Landfill reuse can help achieve environmental goals while addressing the need for green space and renewable energy.
As the world embraces sustainable development, it is crucial to see waste sites as opportunities for innovation and community growth. These projects prove that with vision and imagination, even landfills can become valuable assets.
Dawn Carr is a high-powered national and international consultant to charitable and human rights organizations, multinational corporations and governments, and has worked with notable personages in the entertainment industry; arts, health and wellness; philanthropy; global justice and equality; and humanitarian causes.
Copenhill iStock-1305477082
Serving up Happiness
Foods for Better Moods
by Zak Logan
Most of us feel a little grumpy when we’re hungry, but a diet that is dominated by ultra-processed packaged foods and drive-through meals increases our chances of experiencing chronic mood swings and symptoms of depression. Ultra-processed foods are characterized by a long list of additives—artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, salt and more—resulting in products that do not resemble their original natural state.
In a 2022 study published in JAMA Network Open involving more than 10,000 participants aged 18 or older, individuals with a higher percentage of their total energy intake from ultra-processed foods were significantly more likely to report mild depression and more mentally unhealthy and anxious days. Research involving more than 31,000 middle-aged women published last year in JAMA Network Open linked a higher consumption of ultra-processed foods, especially artificial sweeteners, to a higher risk of depressive disorders. Reducing ultra-processed food intake by at least three servings per day lowered the risk of depression.
In order to produce serotonin, dopamine and other neurotransmitters that are crucial for balanced mental health, our bodies require vitamins, minerals and other nutrients found in real, whole foods. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding processed meats, sugary beverages, sweets and refined grains, and it gives a thumbsup to feel-good fare on the Mediterranean diet that includes plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds
and whole grains; healthy fats like olive oil; lean meats, including fish and poultry; and some dairy, such as natural cheese and yogurt.
Brain Changers
According to Holly DeLong, a registered dietitian and the founder of Food & Mood, in Malvern, Pennsylvania, “Food is a form of medicine, and we truly can make big improvements in our mental and emotional well-being using the intersection between nutrition and mental health. Food, gut health and nutrient status all affect neurotransmitter production and balance. Certain nutrients are required to produce
neurotransmitters.” She recommends the consumption of mood-friendly, B-vitaminrich leafy greens, avocados, lentils, sunflower seeds and nutritional yeast, as well as magnesium-packed whole grains, tofu and bananas.
“What we eat influences key systems in our body, especially blood sugar, gut health and inflammation, and these impact mood, energy, stress and anxiety,” says Amy Fox, a certified functional food coach and life coach in Cincinnati, Ohio. “Think of each meal as your ‘nutrition prescription’. These choices almost always predict how you’ll feel in a few hours. A helpful rule of thumb
is to aim for foods with five ingredients or less and limit boxed, bagged or wrapped items.” She also notes that high-sugar items, especially before bed, are the worst offenders.
What we eat, and when, can improve the body’s chemical balancing act. “Meal timing can be a huge factor in how food affects mood. Skipping meals and eating too close to bedtime can contribute to poor energy, lower moods and higher anxiety for some people,” explains DeLong.
Fox notes that consuming alcohol can also backfire. “Sometimes we think a glass of wine will help us unwind after a long day, but it has the opposite effect. Even small amounts of alcohol can disrupt the production of our natural happiness chemicals.”
Gut Health
Because 95 percent of serotonin is produced in the gut, nutritionally dense foods and those containing probiotics and prebiotics promote the presence of good bacteria in the belly, which ensures the production of this neurotransmitter. Fox recommends three daily servings of fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, kimchi, plain Greek yogurt and naturally fermented sauerkraut found in the refrigerated section with “live cultures” on the label.
DeLong’s favorite go-to allies are sources of omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, walnuts and chia seeds to combat inflammation, an integral factor in fighting the blues. She praises the antioxidant potential of berries, acai and pomegranates, and suggests swapping coffee for L-theanine-rich matcha green tea to decrease systemic patterns of anxiety.
Protein Power
Protein is an unsung hero in eating to feel better. “A craving for sweets might indicate a serotonin deficiency often linked to stress and low energy,” says Fox. “When you eat protein-rich foods, they help slow digestion, keeping blood sugar levels stable and providing a longer-lasting energy source.” She recommends lean chicken, beef, eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese and legumes.
Consistent Change
According to DeLong, “Neurotransmitter health is not a predetermined, unchangeable defect as it is often seen. We can make an impact with the choices we make.”
Simple, consistent changes in the diet can
produce lasting effects. “It’s about small, supportive choices that build up over time, shifting focus from restriction to nourishment,” says Fox.
Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to getting back to basics.
Happy Heart
Coming in February
Gut-Friendly Broccoli
Nut Soup
YIELD: 3 SERVINGS
1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
¾ tsp dried thyme
5 cups bone broth
1 cup raw cashews
1½ lbs Yukon gold or white potatoes, diced (approx. 3½ cups)
7 cups broccoli florets (approx. 1 large head of broccoli)
½ tsp sea salt or to taste
½ tsp black pepper or to taste
Add onion, garlic, celery and 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to a pot. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, adding more water as needed to prevent sticking. Add the thyme and sauté another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add broth, cashews, potatoes, broccoli florets, salt and pepper to the pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and cook for approximately 6 to 8 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup in the pot or carefully transfer the contents of the pot to a stand blender in batches and puree.
Serve with crusty bread or garnish with croutons.
Recipe courtesy of Holly DeLong.
Sustaining Grain Bowl
YIELD: 1 TO 3 SERVINGS
1 cup whole grain of choice, cooked (millet; wild, brown or black rice; buckwheat; quinoa; farro; or amaranth)
1 to 3 cups vegetables, raw, lightly steamed, roasted or sautéed
4 to 6 oz of lean protein of choice, cooked (lean meat, egg, beans, legumes, tempeh, tofu or fish)
⅛ cup nuts, seeds, sprouts or avocado
Cook grain, vegetables and protein, depending on choice of ingredients. To build, layer grain as the base and add vegetables, protein and toppings.
Recipe courtesy of Holly DeLong.
Easy Serenity Salad Bowl
YIELD: 1 SERVING
2 cups mixed greens of choice (baby lettuce, mustard, chard, spinach, arugula or chicory)
¼ cup fermented veggies (kimchi or sauerkraut)
¼ cup cooked beans (kidney, black or garbanzo)
1 Tbsp flaxseeds
2 Tbsp walnuts
1 Tbsp lemon juice
½ Tbsp olive oil
Optional: grilled salmon or avocado slices
Mix greens, fermented veggies, beans, flaxseeds and walnuts in a bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Top with grilled salmon and/or avocado slices.
Recipe courtesy of Amy Fox.
Feel-Good Protein Smoothie
YIELD: 1 SERVING
¾ cup ultra-filtered protein milk (found in many grocery stores)
1 scoop protein powder (whey, soy, egg white, pea or hemp)
½ frozen banana
Handful of frozen strawberries or other berries
1 Tbsp of flaxseeds
¼ cup of zero-percent-fat, plain Greek yogurt
Handful of kale
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend well. To thicken, add a few ice cubes or place smoothie in the freezer for 7 to 10 minutes.
Recipe courtesy of Amy Fox.
First Thoughts and New Experiences
Returning to Innocence Through Beginner’s Mindset
by Carrie Jackson
The new year brings a fresh focus on growth and forward thinking. An intentional way to harness this is to adopt the Zen Buddhist idea of shoshin, or beginner’s mind. This approach guides people to experience life with curiosity and openness, helping them let go of old patterns. It is a way of being that encourages practitioners to abandon preconceptions, embrace the world with a sense of wonder and see things from a more optimistic perspective. By examining and releasing old ways of thinking, expressing gratitude and incorporating different practices, the mind, body and heart open to novel opportunities.
The Beginner’s Mindset
“The idea of being open to the situation comes up repeatedly in meditative traditions,” says Steve Rogne, owner and director of Zen Shiatsu, in Evanston, Illinois. He notes that in his practice, shoshin is an essential part of shiatsu, a form of massage therapy that uses gentle pressure to stimulate the body’s acupressure points and meridian channels. Shoshin can aid in unblocking stagnant energy and harmonizing the flow of qi, or vital energy, in the body.
“As a situation arises, we have our natural responses, which may include wanting to
change what is happening. Another perspective is to ask, ‘What if I accept things the way they are?’” Rogne explains. “Accepting situations for the way they are is the foundation from which we can respond. It’s like a preparation for action without being the endpoint. We can simultaneously be open and respond mindfully.”
Learning to accept what is happening can also help us break old patterns of thinking and reacting. “There is a very common human dynamic to move toward the things we want and away from the things we don’t
want; however, this can lead to a fixed response pattern that limits our growth,” says Rogne. “In shiatsu, we help people to recognize those patterns and find the balance between active response and trusting with faith. This trains us to listen to our inner wisdom and relax into outcomes that aren’t what we prefer.”
Mindfully changing patterns can open us up to new experiences that we had previously shut out. “You may find a willingness to move forward in new relationships, even though you’ve experienced that relationships can be painful, or perhaps you find the willingness to speak up even though there’s a chance you won’t be heard in the way that you want,” Rogne notes.
Keeping a receptive mind helps to open us up physically, as well. “In both shiatsu and the shoshin mindset, we trust that every person’s body is already working on its own healing. When we let go of our fixed holding patterns, the internal circulation is freed up, leaving the best possible opportunity for the body to regain all the healthy rhythms of the organs and reduce conditions such as chronic pain,” Rogne asserts.
Optimism
Having hope and confidence about the future is essential in cultivating a beginner’s mind, helping to counter some of the fear and intolerance that can undermine our lives. “A shoshin principle is that there is not
The
new year brings a fresh focus on growth and forward thinking. An intentional way to harness this is to adopt the Zen Buddhist idea of shoshin, or beginner’s mind. This approach guides people to experience life with curiosity and openness, helping them let go of old patterns. It is a way of being that encourages practitioners to abandon preconceptions, embrace the world with a sense of wonder and see things from a more optimistic perspective.
anything fundamentally wrong with us or with the world. This allows us to move forward with positive faith and engagement,” says Rogne.
“Optimism is a belief that good things will happen and that things will work out in the end,” says Victor Perton, founder of the Centre for Optimism, an Australian-based think tank dedicated to fostering realistic and infectious optimism around the world. “With optimism, we enter each experience expecting fresh possibilities, guided by a sense that there’s something meaningful to discover.”
This positive outlook has myriad benefits. “Optimism nurtures healthy longevity and acts as a powerful protector against major
health threats like heart disease, cancer and dementia,” says Perton. “Optimism also lowers the risk of cognitive decline, as optimistic people tend to be more socially and physically active, helping stave off dementia and agerelated memory loss.” A 2022 study of more than 150,000 racially diverse, older women published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that the most optimistic women were healthier, lived 4.4 years longer than the least optimistic women and were more likely to live past age 90.
A positive outlook can help navigate the stress and anxiety of life. “Optimism doesn’t mean ignoring the challenge; it means approaching it with the belief that solutions are possible. Optimism and a beginner’s mind work together in this way, helping us to stay open to new paths, resilient in the face of setbacks and appreciative of life’s small, beautiful details,” opines Perton.
Incorporating small, intentional practices into our day can help us cultivate optimism. “Smiling with genuine warmth—even at strangers—can shift our outlook, and asking others, ‘What’s the best thing in your day?’ brings a positive energy to conversations,” says Perton. He also recommends simple grounding practices like gardening, yoga and meditation to nurture curiosity and positivity, noting, “Through these small habits, optimism becomes a daily practice and, in time, a personal superpower for resilience and joy.”
Applying Shoshin to Everyday Life
by Carrie Jackson
K alika Yap, a Los Angeles-based serial entrepreneur, author, coach and podcast host, offers these tips to cultivate shoshin, or beginner’s mind:
Acknowledge wisdom and smarts, then set them aside. While it is okay to recognize our knowledge and experience, it is also important to consciously set aside preconceptions before approaching a task or problem.
Ask open-ended questions. Replace statements with questions, such as: “What if we tried this other way?” or “How might we solve this differently?”
Embrace curiosity. Approach each day with a learner’s mindset and seek out new experiences and perspectives.
Practice active listening. Value the input of others, regardless of their level of experience, and listen to understand, not to respond.
Reflect and adapt. Regularly reflect on experiences and what has been learned, and be willing to adapt the approach based on new insights.
Encourage team creativity. Emphasize the importance of a beginner’s mindset within the team and create an environment where team members feel safe to share new ideas.
Welcome failure as a learning opportunity. View failures as opportunities to learn, grow and analyze what went wrong to see how to make improvements next time.
Stay humble. Approach every situation with humility and a willingness to grow, and remember that there is always more to learn.
Reframing Our Outlook
Reflective practices encourage us to explore our goals with a fresh outlook. “Journaling is a practice that is just for you, and you’re not intending to share it with anyone else,” explains Shawn Brown, a Baltimore-based wellness facilitator and yoga teacher who helps clients find a path to being their authentic selves. “It really allows you to examine what is popping up and what you are curious about. This might be learning a new language or starting a new yoga practice. When we look at things as a beginner, we are open to what we are truly interested in.”
A regular gratitude practice also helps bring us back to a place of grounding. “When we tap into gratitude, it expands our propensity to be creative and allows us to drop into the present moment. This is where we live, but when we think of the future or ruminate on something that happened in the past, we are pulled out,” says Brown. She encourages clients to take breaks throughout the day and recall a person, place or experience for which they are grateful. “Think about something that makes the corner of your mouth turn into a smile,” she suggests. “It can be as simple as gratitude for your partner who bought dog food or a neighbor who moved a package off the porch. This brings us back into our lives right now, and that’s where the beginner is.”
Cultivating a sense of play can also tap into a shoshin mindset. “As adults, there’s a need
to have a goal or expected result in any situation. When you’re a beginner, you don’t have a specific outcome because you’re just learning. Play, especially with kids or an animal, is free-form engagement without the need to get it right or check something off our to-do list. Releasing the need for control and perfection opens us up and expands us for so many other options and possibilities,” Brown says.
Brown encourages her yoga students to be open in the way they approach their practice. “Coming into a pose in a different way can give us a new experience of it,” she says. “My approach to yoga is not that we’re trying to do the posture, it’s that we’re trying to feel the posture. It’s a mirror of our being and can indicate if you are feeling strong, tired, energized or wobbly. Rather than attaching a label of good or bad, you just notice, and that opens us up.”
Especially in the new year, Brown urges clients to replace “I have to” with “I get to,” which presents more of a growth mindset. “This is the time to reframe our goals,” she points out. “Trying something new, like taking a West African dance class instead of your regular spin class, shakes up the routine and keeps your mind and body learning. You get to be pushed out of the comfort zone, and that’s where the magic happens.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJackson Writes.com.
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Exercise With a Smile
Turning Workouts Into Playtime
by David J. Sautter, NASM (CPT, FNS, PES), ACE (SCS)
When it comes to exercise, many people think of rigid routines, grueling workouts and strict schedules, but joyful movement can make fitness fun, flexible and something to look forward to. It could be as simple as walking through the park, dancing in the living room or playing outside with the kids. Unlike traditional exercise routines that feel like obligations or chores, a joyful approach to fitness focuses on engaging in activities that feel good both physically and mentally.
“Movement does not have to be intense or
complex; however, it must be intentional and innate,” says Katia Mashni, a healthand-wellness coach and registered dietitian/ nutritionist in Michigan. “When you find and engage in an exercise program you enjoy, you are far more likely to stick to it and adopt it as part of your lifestyle because it makes you happy.” A 2020 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health of more than 2,300 adults found that those engaged in moderate and high levels of activity had significantly higher life satisfaction and happiness than those with low activity levels.
Fun Fuels Fitness Success
Fun is a powerful motivator when it comes to fitness. A 2020 review of more than 2,800 studies and papers by researchers at Victoria University, in Australia, found that when people had fun exercising, they were significantly more likely to consistently exercise.
By regularly engaging in our favorite activities, we can create a healthier relationship with fitness. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology of more than 200 participants involved in different levels of activity found
that after four weeks, active participants had higher levels of happiness, life satisfac tion and self-esteem.
Adding Joy to Workouts
• Listen to music. An energizing playlist of favorites is a surefire way to boost a walk ing, running or strength-training routine.
• Exercise with friends or family. Increase the fun quotient by turning a gym work out or outdoor hike into a social event.
• Try something new or revisit a childhood favorite. Explore activities such as biking around the neighborhood, hula-hooping in the backyard or swimming at a local pool or beach. “I encourage people to get curious,” says Courtney Pelitera, a dietitian with a pas sion for sport and performance nutrition. “Maybe you loved swimming in high school, or you have always wanted to take your dog out on a hike, or the pickleball leagues pop ping up everywhere sound like fun to you. Try it out! We all start somewhere, and being new to something might even bring you into friendships with others who are also new.”
• Dance around the house. Turn house hold chores into a dance party by moving to the rhythm while cleaning or cooking.
• Play with pets. Get active by running, walking or playing fetch with the dog or by creating a fun obstacle course to do together.
Releasing the Guilt and Pressure
Many people feel judged or intimidated when it comes to fitness. Embrace these strategies to break free from the pressure to exercise perfectly or to follow an intense workout routine.
• Let go of perfection. Focus on progress, not perfection. Every bit of movement counts, and it’s okay if goals or milestones are not achieved right away.
• Set a realistic pace. Whether starting or returning to fitness, it is important to honestly evaluate exercise readiness. Joyful movement is about doing what feels
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right for the body.
• Avoid comparisons to others. Everyone’s fitness journey is different, and trying to match others can take the joy out of it. Celebrate personal achievements, no matter how small.
• Focus on fun, not performance. Place less emphasis on the quality of the exercise movements and more on how pleasing those efforts are.
• Choose comfortable environments. Whether a solo walk in nature, a quiet yoga session or dancing at home, choose settings that feel relaxing and happy.
• Dress for comfort. Wearing feel-good workout clothes adds confidence and reduces self-conscious discomfort during exercise.
David J. Sautter is a certified trainer, nutrition specialist, and health and fitness writer.
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Advancing a Couple’s Fertility
Natural Solutions for Women and Men
by Madiha Saeed, M.D.
The prospect of parenthood can bring a range of emotions to couples trying to conceive—from excitement and jubilation to worry, frustration and sadness. According to the World Health Organization, one in six people worldwide experience infertility in their lifetime. Many couples hoping to conceive turn to costly medications and painful procedures designed to manipulate hormones, help with ovulation issues and prepare a woman’s body for pregnancy.
In addition to researching such medications and procedures, couples should explore natural alternatives that nurture and support their ability to conceive. “Fertility is not just about hormones,” says Nashat Latib, a certified functional medicine doctor specializing in natural fertility. “Consider what is going on in your whole body.”
“Males and females are equally at the root of fertility struggles, and sometimes the roadblocks can come from both sides,” observes Aumatma Simmons, a naturopathic doctor, endocrinologist and author of Fertility Secrets: What Your Doctor Didn’t Tell You About Baby-Making. “It is essential to pinpoint the root causes of fertility problems.”
For women, fertility rates naturally decline with age, from a 25 to 30 percent chance of pregnancy in their early-to-mid-20s to about a 5 percent chance by age 40. Other health concerns such as ovulation issues,
endometriosis, uterine fibroids and polycystic ovary syndrome can complicate conception and the ability to carry a baby to term.
When fertility issues arise, often the focus is placed on women, but about half of the cases can be attributed to the men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 12.8 percent of men aged 25 to 49 experience infertility, and the rate is rising. Factors like low sperm production, poor sperm quality, oxidative stress, blockages preventing sperm release, undescended testicles and cancers contribute to male infertility. Other health problems, including diabetes,
infections, hormone imbalances, autoimmunity and tumors, can impact both men and women.
Rainbow Nutrition
Diet plays a significant role in overall reproductive health. Simmons stresses the need for a diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and whole grains to provide the essential nutrients that support fertility. Phytonutrients—natural compounds in plants that provide health benefits—optimize male and female fertility and help the body eliminate toxins. Simmons also recommends limiting processed
foods and refined sugar, which can negatively impact hormone balance.
“Nutrients found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, bok choy and kohlrabi can help regulate and metabolize hormones,” says Latib. “Nutrients found in grapes and berries can improve the quality of the eggs and sperm by reducing oxidative stress; protect reproductive cells from damage; support successful embryo implantation; regulate ovulation by modulating hormone levels; and promote hormonal balance. Compounds like lycopene in tomatoes and watermelon have been shown to improve sperm motility and boost immune function by providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.”
Diet plays a significant role in overall reproductive health. Simmons stresses the need for a diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and whole grains to provide the essential nutrients that support fertility. Phytonutrients—natural compounds in plants that provide health benefits— optimize male and female fertility and help the body eliminate toxins.
Latib adds that pairing foods from different color categories in meals helps maximize the positive effects of phytonutrients. Examples include a berry smoothie with spinach, a stir-fry dish with a rainbow of vegetables, a tomato and mushroom frittata, a cauliflower rice bowl with turmeric and veggies, and a kale salad topped with sweet potato.
A Clean Lifestyle
Toxins are all around us, and hormone disrupting chemicals found in cosmetics, plastic packaging, toys, carpets and pesticides can have serious consequences for male and female fertility. Latib suggests using glass instead of plastic whenever possible and eating organic fruits and vegetables to reduce the pesticide and herbicide exposure.
“Be cautious of endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, and phthalates that are used to make plastics. They are found in food packaging, water bottles and food-can linings,” says Simmons, adding, “Even ingredients like ‘fragrance’ can contribute to hormonal imbalances and gut-health issues.”
Stress can negatively affect fertility, underscoring the need for stress management. Simmons recommends quitting tobacco use, reducing alcohol intake and practicing yoga or meditation to improve overall reproductive health. Exercise can also reduce tension, improving health and fertility.
Latib recommends high-intensity exercise during the first half of a woman’s menstrual cycle and restorative movement and exercise in the second half of the cycle. For men, she notes the importance of supporting testosterone levels with regular exercise and sufficient sleep, limiting unhealthy environmental exposures and consuming adequate levels of nutrients like zinc and vitamin D.
Reducing Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can negatively impact fertility by
disrupting hormone balance and damaging reproductive tissues. Oxidative stress occurs when the body’s free radicals and antioxidants are not balanced, leading to damaged reproductive cells and fertility issues.
Both Latib and Simmons recommend working with a fertility specialist to assess a couple’s health, fertility and lifestyle factors. The assessment should include hormone testing to measure levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormones, follicle-stimulating hormones and prolactin; nutrient testing for zinc, selenium and antioxidant levels; a gut-health assessment; and a thorough evaluation of environmental toxin exposures.
“Your body is smart,” emphasizes Latib. “Nothing is unexplainable. If you are having trouble conceiving, there is a root cause. A functional fertility practitioner can guide you through the process.”
Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.
Revolutionizing Accessibility
The Latest Innovations In Assistive Technology 2025
by Dawn Carr
In 2025 and beyond, assistive technology doesn’t stay on the sidelines, it changes lives and expands horizons for people with disabilities. In a world increasingly shaped by technology to foster equality, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), mobility and wearable technologies are opening new paths for individuals to become self-reliant, regain their pride and integrate seamlessly. This year’s focus is on creating tools that are simple, accessible and versatile, enabling people to overcome challenges and accomplish tasks with ease.
This article highlights the most promising developments in assistive technology for 2025, from smart glasses to advanced mobility solutions that empower individuals to navigate life without barriers.
A New Vision: NeuroVision Pro. For blind or visually impaired individuals, NeuroVision Pro offers a glimpse into the future. This wearable device features highresolution cameras, depth sensors and AI neural interfaces that provide real-time visual assistance. By transforming visual information into neural signals perceivable by the brain, it delivers “digital sight”. Users can navigate spaces, identify people and even read printed text independently. Its flexibility stands out as it evolves and improves with the user’s experience. Imagine entering a room and recognizing everyone present or navigating an unfamiliar space effortlessly—this is the potential of NeuroVision Pro.
In a world increasingly shaped by technology to foster equality, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), mobility and wearable technologies are opening new paths for individuals to become self-reliant, regain their pride and integrate seamlessly. This year’s focus has been on creating tools that are simple, accessible and versatile, enabling people to overcome challenges and accomplish tasks with ease.
Revolutionary Mobility Solutions
ExoWalk: Next-Generation Freedom. ExoWalk, developed by BionicMobility, represents a breakthrough in exoskeleton technology. Lighter, more sensitive and easier to control, it assists individuals with mobility disabilities, enabling free movement. The device’s AI-based motion prediction framework processes neural activity and real-time data to predict the user’s next step. ExoWalk excels on stairs, uneven surfaces and complex environments, making it invaluable for those seeking independence. Whether hiking outdoors or climbing stairs at home, ExoWalk empowers users like never before.
HoverChair: Omnidirectional Independence. For those requiring flexible mobility solutions, HoverChair offers unmatched versatility. Its AI-powered control system enables omnidirectional movement, including the ability to stand. With control options like voice commands, eye tracking and neural input, it caters to various levels of mobility impairment. Designed to navigate obstacles indoors and outdoors, its sleek design makes it a favorite for active users.
Alinker: Active and Social Mobility. The Alinker walking bike redefines mobility by fostering social inclusion and physical activity. This non-motorized, three-wheeled bike keeps users at eye level, encouraging engagement and independence. Lightweight, foldable and adjustable, the Alinker fits diverse lifestyles. Its growing popularity reflects a shift toward inclusive design that challenges assumptions about disability. By helping users navigate curbs, slopes and various terrains, the Alinker symbolizes mobility and inclusion.
LiftAssist Pro: Dignified Transitions. Falls are a common risk for seniors, often leading to injuries and helplessness. LiftAssist Pro addresses this with a compact, portable device that helps individuals transition from the floor to a standing position safely. Features include a multi-stage lifting mechanism, sensors and voice control systems. An emergency alert system notifies caregivers or medical personnel when needed, preserving dignity while filling a critical gap in elderly care technology.
Wearable Innovations:
Empowering Independence
NanoGlove: Precision and Control. For individuals with limited hand mobility caused by stroke, Parkinson’s disease or injury, NanoGlove provides transformative support. This ultra-thin wearable enhances finger movements with real-time precision. Its AI-based adaptability tailors support to the user’s needs, enabling tasks like writing, typing and handling small objects. NanoGlove restores confidence and independence in daily activities.
SoundSphere: Immersive Hearing. Unlike conventional hearing aids, SoundSphere creates a personalized soundscape. This 360-degree auditory enhancement device, powered by AI, filters sounds based on user preferences. Whether focusing on a conversation in a noisy environment or enhancing ambient noise for safety, SoundSphere provides unparalleled auditory control and clarity.
Breakthroughs in Communication
ThoughtSpeak: Voice to Thought. ThoughtSpeak is a revolutionary braincomputer interface that gives a voice to individuals with severe speech disorders
or paralysis. It translates neural activity into speech or text, breaking barriers between mind and voice. By enabling users to express themselves meaningfully, ThoughtSpeak transforms lives and redefines communication.
The Future of Assistive Technology
The possibilities for assistive technology are boundless. Emerging trends like brain-computer interfaces, personalized bioengineered solutions and augmented reality are set to redefine accessibility. Investing in these innovations addresses current needs and lays the groundwork for a more inclusive society.
Moving forward, collaboration among technologists, healthcare providers and communities is essential to ensure these breakthroughs reach those who need them most. Together, we can create a future where barriers are dismantled, independence is celebrated and accessibility is universal.
Dawn Carr is a high-powered national and international consultant to charitable and human rights organizations, multinational corporations and governments, and has worked with notable personages in the entertainment industry; arts, health and wellness; philanthropy; global justice and equality; and humanitarian causes.
Assistive technology is not about limitations; it’s about possibilities. It breaks down barriers and opens up a world of potential for everyone. — Dr. Gregg Vanderheiden
Inspiration
Opening New Chapters
by Marlaina Donato
Diving into a new job, partnership or living situation might not be as scary as jumping into a fire or abyss, but fear of the unknown can certainly get a grip on us if we are not careful. Beginning anything new can feel unsettling, but with a little shift in mindset, anxiety can morph into genuine excitement. Whether taking piano lessons or trying a fitness class at the gym for the first time, we have one thing on our side: beginners have nothing to prove. Every master of their craft was once a novice, and remembering this can quell the ego’s impatience for perfection.
Curiosity, instead of fear, can become our internal navigation system, urging us forward as we turn a new corner or a new page. The month of January can bring expectations, fresh goals and, for the anxietyprone, flashes of what-ifs. It is not easy approaching the unknown, even for the seasoned artist putting that first brushstroke onto a stark, white canvas. Tapping into our innate creativity helps us to see an open road of choices lying before us.
First steps can be shaky, but with a little purpose and fortitude, they become surer, even elegant. Martin Luther King, Jr. advised, “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” When we feel snagged in
a web of procrastination or hesitance, reviving our sense of wonderment and childlike innocence can disarm doubt. Despite our fears and uncertainties, we might even experience some levity in our pursuits.
Greeting the New Year
• Try a different ethnic restaurant.
• Visit an unexplored town.
• Start a conversation with a previously unknown neighbor.
• Begin wearing hats or another signature piece, and own a new style.
• Learn an interesting word every week, and use it in conversation.
• Investigate an intriguing culture.
• Enroll in a cooking class, or learn to bake bread.
• Take a screen break and pick out a new book at the library.
Marlaina Donato is an author of several books, a painter and a composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 4
Revive and Thrive Wellness Event Featuring Sound Healing — $69 from 1–6pm. Join Dr. Chris Michaels for ecstatic dance and a sunset meditation at the Plunge Hotel, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Register at zenpike.com/have-fun
MONDAY, JANUARY 6
Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine. Earn a Master’s Degree in 36 months! Learn how to become a licensed Acupuncturist. Winter class starts January 6. Night classes available. Financial Aid available. 954-763-9840 x213 or admissions@atom.edu
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Messages From Your Loved Ones — 12:302:30pm $30. Join Danielle Schwartz, Certified Medium for this LIVE Gallery Event. Center for Spiritual Living, 4849 Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, FL, 33334. Tickets: https://www.daniellethemedium.com/offers/zD7xW2bY/checkout
SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
Holistic Health and Healing Expo — 11am–6pm. Exhibitors and workshops. Immerse yourself in a world of holistic health, mindfulness, and spiritual growth. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 100 Fairway Drive Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. Tickets: SoFlo.HHHExpo. com.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
StaarCon 5 — 9am–9pm, first of three-day tarot, divination, and metaphysics conference. 40 presentations daily with creators from around the world. Marketplace and psychic fair open to the public. Purchase tickets through: StaarCon.com, or 561-655-1160.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30
Emotional Healing and Mindset Shifts Classes — 5-6pm, free. Join us for transformative and engaging discussions! Different topics each month. Held the last Thursday each month on Zoom. Call Ilka Handshaw to reserve your spot: 754-222-6971.
Upcoming Events Calendar of Events
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
2-Day, Wisdom of Light Conference — plus Saturday, February 22. Leaders in the fields of science, spirit, health and more. Hilton Disney Springs, Orlando, WisdomOfLightConference.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 8
Holistic Holiday At Sea — March 8-15. Luxurious and nourishing vegan cruise! Sail through the Caribbean while learning from physicians, health experts, and plant-based chefs. HolisticHolidayAtSea.com
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
7-Day Heal Your Life® Workshop Leader Training Certification — in Louise Hay’s philosophy. Lead up to 15 different workshops. Patricia Crane, 760-539-2227. Training, Orlando, https://HealYourLifeTraining.com/ florida
Ongoing Events
Sunday
Join our Leading Edge Spiritual CommUnity! — Sunday Services at 10am. Unity of Fort Lauderdale, 3331 NE 32 St, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33308. Visit UnityFortLauderdale.org
ECK Light and Sound Service, The Power of Gratitude — 1st Sunday each month, 11am. All welcome, Eckankar, Experience HU, the Sound of Soul. The Rodeway Inn & Suites, Fort Lauderdale. Eck-Florida.org, 954-693-5681.
IANDS South Florida - International Association for Near Death Studies — 1st Sunday monthly, 3-5pm. Discussions include Spiritually Transformative Experiences. All interested in the studies are welcomed. Locations vary, call for details. Reverend Gail Fein, 305-798-8974.
Monday
ATOM Intern Clinic Open to public — Appointments Monday thru Saturday. Experience the benefits of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. Low cost acupuncture and herbal treatments. Students supervised by Licensed Acupuncturist. 954-7639840 ext. 201, Ft. Lauderdale. atom.edu
Monday Meditation Club — 3pm, free. Guided meditations on themes from spirituality, breathwork, mindfulness, conscious creation, to stress release. Contemplations are channeled from higher intelligence that reaches deeper layers of awareness. Participants suggest topics. Register: https://www.VisionWholistic.net/
Tuesday
Restorative Yoga — Second Tuesday monthly. Noon-1pm. Free. Gentle Yin-restore and stretching yoga allows you to drop deep into the meditative aspects while loosening tight muscles and joints. The Pride Center, Wilton Manors. Register at WellnessProgramRestore. Eventbrite.com.
Pines Iyengar Yoga — Enjoy yoga classes with Asha! Tuesday/Thursday, 5:15-6:15pm. Specializing in small group and individual sessions. Enjoy personalized classes that cater to your needs. Call 954-866-3209 for directions or visit PinesYoga.com.
Wednesday
Picnic — 10:30am - noon. Join us this season for a delightful morning picnic filled with good vibrations, flowers, fresh air, and seasonal treats. TY Park, 3300 N Park Rd, Hollywood. Jowana, House of Petali, 786-678-8956.
Saturday
Paddle With A Purpose, Waterway and Shoreline Cleanup — 9–11am, help remove trash (third Saturday monthly). Kayaks, and canoes available on a first come, first serve basis; bringing your own. Location varies. Owen Gaither, Kool2care2@gmail.com
Talk@Ten Saturday with Jon Albee — 1011am, free. Regenerative backyard gardening protocols with an occasional seed exchange. Diversity for richness and balance. Urban Farming Institute (UFI), 1101 NE 40th Ct, Oakland Park, 954.696.9577.
The Mindful Thinker, Law of Attraction, Group Discussion — 3-4:15pm, 1st Saturday monthly, $25. Receive tools to help guide you in manifesting desires into your reality. Bombay Room Yoga, 3354 NE 33rd St, Ft Lauderdale, 954-567-1110
Ecstatic Dance Full Moon Immersions — 7pm. Six hour journey of Ecstatic Dancing under the Moon, Aquatic Rebirthing in a heated pool and Sound Healing, Hollywood. On the Saturday closest to the Full Moon. 754-273-5510. EcstaticDanceMiami.com
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Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide; email NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com for details.
Anti-Aging
CELL LIFE USA LLC
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Beauty & Health
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Scan the display ad’s QR code. See ad page 2.
Certification Course
HEAL YOUR LIFE® TRAINING
Patricia J. Crane, Ph.D. 760-539-2227
HealYourLifeTraining.com/florida
Master Louise Hay’s proven methods for helping others heal and transform their lives. This comprehensive certification training equips you with complete workshop materials, licensing, and skills to launch your teaching practice.
Chakra Healing
7 CHAKRA WELLNESS
754-320-3753, Fort Lauderdale 7ChakrasWellness.com
At 7 Chakras Wellness, we are dedicated to chakra healing and wellness advice, backed by over 25 years of experience. We provide clients with unique and personalized services, creating a harmonious balance in their lives. We aim to enhance well-being, promote self-discovery, and empower individuals to lead a fulfilling life.
Chiropractic Physician
EASY REACH PHYSICAL THERAPY & REHAB
2001 NW 62 St. # 101, Ft Lauderdale 754-200-4822
EasyReachChiro.com
We prioritize safe, effective recovery for patients, promoting holistic health programs. Our approach includes Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, and innovative pain management devices to aid rehabilitation and restore normal lifestyles.
Day Retreats
THERMAE STILLNESS RETREAT
604 S. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale FL 33301
954-604-7930
ThermaeRetreat@gmail.com
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FB: @ThermaeRetreat
IG: Thermae.FtLauderdale
Thermae Retreat
An organic serene daily retreat to prevent or heal. Infrared saunas, massage, skincare, body scrubs and masques, holistic healing, energy therapy. Yoga, meditation, hydrotherapy.
Dental Health
ADVANCED DENTAL WELLNESS CENTER
Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD
104 SE 1st St., Ft Lauderdale FL 33301 954-525-5662
ADWCenter.com
Dr. Lipovetskiy specializes in natural, biological, and cosmetic dentistry offering latest in technology in our relaxing environment. We provide mercury safe dentistry, metal-free braces, and biocompatible metal-free zirconia implants. He specializes in TMJ and sleep apnea.
INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE
Yolanda Cintron, DMD 2021 E Commercial Blvd., Ste. 208 Fort Lauderdale FL 33308
954-938-4599
FortLauderdaleDentistry.com
All phases of dentistry for optimum health, holistic, bio-compatible dentistry.
• Sedation dentistry • Removing of toxic metals • Replacing them with biocompatible 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.
Dr. Chebanu recognizes the importance of natural therapies and health solutions. His office specializes in Biocompatible and Holistic Dentistry, Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, Ceramic Dental Implants, Oral Surgery, and TMJ Disorders. See ad page 7.
Education
ATLANTIC INSTITUTE OF ORIENTAL MEDICINE (ATOM)
100 E Broward Blvd., Ste. 100 Fort Lauderdale FL 33301
954-763-9840
ATOM.edu
ATOM offers a Master’s degree and a Doctoral degree in Oriental Medicine. ATOM has an Intern Clinic that is open to the public. See ad back page.
Fitness
JAZZERCISE
250 NE 56th Ct, Ft Lauderdale, 33334 754-224-8244
Jazzercise.com/location/northandrews-garden
Fun and effective, Jazzercise Cardio Sculpt classes help improve health, appearance and strength!
Call or text for a special offer.
Holistic Hair Salon
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 scalp-hair detox, and jet rejuvenation. Hair coloring with Henna or eco-friendly dyes, and formaldehydefree keratine.
Holistic Healing
NEW START NUTRI CENTER
23257 State Rd 7, Ste 104, Boca Raton 561-566-0019
Instagram @NewStartNutriCenter
Holistic Therapist specializing in Live Blood Analysis. Minerals and vitamins testing, and heavy toxins assessment. Schedule your appointment today. Prevention — a pillar of natural medicine.
Homeopathy
HOMEOPATHY CURE
Dr. Iqbal Nazir, M.S.D.Pharm, D.H.S. Licensed Lab Medicine Practitioner 954-226-3652
HomeopathTreatment.com
Natural Cure in Homeopathy of most diseases and symptoms. No side effects. Call Doctor Iqbal Nazir, Functional Homeopathic Specialist for an appointment today.
Integrative Wellness Coaching
ACTIVXCHANGE
Rebecca Marshall, MS, LMHC, CBP 305-735-1283
ActivXchange.com
Gain support, skills, and tools for nurturing and tending your emotional well-being. Increase confidence in navigating change, regulating emotions, strengthening relationships, and cultivating greater ease.
“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” — Nelson Mandela
Mental Health
HEALTH & LIGHT INSTITUTE
754-273-5510, Hollywood HealthAndLight.com
Restore your well-being, overcoming stress, trauma, anxiety. Our Holistic Approach incorporates Aquatic Therapy, Breathwork, and Somatic Psychotherapy.
Mention this ad for 10% off.
INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS
Josiane Bonté, PhD, LMHC 786-553-5871
DrJosiane@gmail.com
TheIntegrativeWellness.com
Find inner power through compassionate love, Qi Gong, and EMDR therapy.
Foster self-love, harmony, balance, and relational integrity in your relationships. Changing your mind, changes your Life!
800 E Broward Blvd, Ste 507, Ft Laud. 954-537-4016
Discover the EMsella Chair: non-invasive, 30-minute sessions to strengthen the pelvic floor, relieve incontinence, and enhance sexual wellness. Call today for a FREE TRIAL!
The pathfinder to Your Life’s Unique Purpose is your Spiritual Intelligence. Text to schedule a complimentary consultation to explore if our Mentoring is for you.
Get to the root cause and monitor your body for inflammatory changes. Clinical Thermography offers Non-Invasive Full Body & Breast Imaging for Men & Women.
Natural Awakenings magazines are freely available at doctor offices, fitness centers, book stores, health care facilities, public libraries, & more. Following are Featured Locations that also carry our free publication:
ZenPike is a spiritual lifestyle platform offering online/in-person classes, events, and journeys. We are a community of spiritual adventurers and conscious creators. Learn More.
Primary Health Care with a Natural Approach including Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, Quantum Biofeedback, Weight Loss, Detoxification, Natural Allergy Treatment, Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies, Supplements, Nutrition, Lifestyle Counseling, Circulation enhancement/BEMER therapy, BrainTap and NeuralChek. See ad page 8.
Yoga
BOMBAY ROOM YOGA
3354 NE 33rd St, Ft Lauderdale 954-567-1110
BombayRoomYoga.com
Experience guided spiritual and physical growth on your yoga journey. Disconnect from the outside world and connect within with our expert instructors. Join us now!
YELLOW-GREEN MARKET
1940 N 30th Rd, Information Booth Hollywood FL 33021
No alarm clock needed. My passion wakes me. —Eric Thomas
