Nurturing the Wise Elder Within A Vision for a DIABETES-FREE FUTURE
Best Yoga Poses for STRESS RELIEF
Benefits of Compression Therapy
Improving Lymphatic Circulation for Health & Fitness
ELECTROMAGNETIC THERAPY
Non-Invasive Relief for Pain & Wound Healing
Green Gadgets for the Home
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AsNovember brings milder temperatures to our Florida communities, we’re reminded of the resilience and interconnectedness that define our state. Recent events, including Hurricane Milton’s impact on Florida, have underscored the importance of community and gratitude. While we’re thankful that our immediate area was spared significant damage, our hearts go out to those impacted. It’s in this spirit of appreciation and support that we present this month’s issue, filled with insights to enrich your life and deepen your connection with the world around you.
conditions and enhancing overall circulation. Delve into the science behind this innovative approach on page 22.
Pet owners can appreciate Ruth Roberts’ article on electromagnetic therapy for dogs. This non-invasive treatment offers relief for our canine companions—especially those suffering from arthritis—in the form of living healthier, happier lives. Learn about this cutting-edge therapy on page 26.
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This month’s featured article, Rising to the Calling: Earning Wisdom as We Age, invites us to explore the beneficial role of wise elders in our communities. This piece delves into how connecting with nature and embracing self-care can guide us towards a life of greater wisdom and purpose. Discover how challenges often become the stepping stones to personal growth and how we can embody these principles at any age. Begin this read on page 16.
In our Conscious Eating department, we celebrate the tradition of soup in Blissful Bowls: Celebrating with Soup. Learn how this simple dish can bring loved ones together and honor generations of cherished recipes. Expert tips on crafting the perfect bowl await you on page 11.
The Healing Ways section explores an intriguing wellness trend in Benefits of Compression Therapy. Discover how this therapy appears to be revolutionizing both athletic performance and medical treatments, offering relief for various
In our Healthy Kids department, Raising Children to Be Thankful highlights how practicing gratitude can help children— and adults—better cope with anxiety and life’s pressures. Simple practices such as modeling gratitude and incorporating daily rituals of thankfulness can cultivate stronger emotional well-being and deeper family connections. This Thanksgiving, consider passing along the gift of gratitude to the next generation. Check out these strategies on page 24.
Wisdom, gratitude, healing, and connection—our writers share reminders of the power of community and the importance of caring for ourselves and others. May this issue guide you towards a more mindful, connected, wise, and thankful way of living.
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.”
— Melody Beattie
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The Benefits of Compression Therapy — Go Compression Socks
Improving lymphatic circulation for better health and fitness, compression therapy has been gaining popularity for its positive impact on leg health, especially for those dealing with swelling, poor circulation, or muscle fatigue. Compression socks, designed with graduated pressure, are an effective solution for improving blood flow and supporting the lymphatic system. According to the Mayo Clinic, they can help manage conditions like var icose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Physiological Response to Spirituality
A 2023 study in Integrative Medicine Reports involving 68 undergraduate college students evaluated the physiological effects of an eight-week wellness intervention called Awakened Awareness for Adolescents and Emerging Adults designed to help participants develop a personal relationship with their higher self and a higher power, while broadening their awareness toward outward accomplishments.
By applying the greatest pressure at the ankle and gradually decreasing it up the leg, compression socks help push blood and lymphatic fluid upward, counteracting gravity. This promotes better circulation, reduces swelling, and prevents blood from pooling in the lower limbs.
For athletes, these socks aid in faster muscle recovery by minimizing soreness and fatigue post-exercise. Long-distance travelers often use them to prevent discomfort during flights, while professionals who spend long hours sitting or standing experience much-needed relief.
Whether through open/closed toe or ankle compression socks, the benefits extend across various lifestyles. By improving circulation and reducing leg strain, compression therapy can be an integral part of a healthy, active routine.
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At the beginning of the study, the researchers collected selfreported information about clinical, psychological and spiritual well-being from the participants and measured their heart rate variability (HRV)—the slight variation in time between heartbeats. HRV is an indirect measure of stress because it indicates the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the nervous system. A person in a fight-or-flight mode will have lower HRV, whereas a relaxed person may have higher HRV.
Participants attended weekly, 90-minute group sessions. After the last session, the same HRV and well-being data were collected. Significant improvements were noted in the participants’ HRV, suggesting improvements in the ability to recover from stress and spiritual decline. Further research is required to fully understand the role of spirituality in resilience and recovery from stress.
Homeopathy for Arm Fracture
Fractures of the upper end of the humerus, or upper arm bone, that connects to the shoulder joint are the third-most common fractures among the elderly. In a case report published in Integrative Medicine Reports, a 53-year-old patient with multiple fractures of the humerus selected homeopathy rather than surgery to repair the fractures, which consisted of keeping the arm and shoulder immobilized and daily doses of a homeopathic anti-inflammatory made from the roots and leaves of Symphytum officinale, commonly referred to as the comfrey plant.
After two weeks, a follow-up X-ray showed the first signs of healing, and the patient reported a reduction of pain. After three weeks, the fracture had consolidated, and the patient was advised to start gentle movement of the arm. The final X-ray after six weeks of homeopathic treatment showed the fracture had healed.
Dr. Ilona Fotek, DMD, MS: Concierge cosmetic dentist and certified naturopath specializing in holistic and biologic treatments. Focuses on restoring natural, youthful smiles for confidence and beauty.
Dr. Paul Fotek, DMD, MS: Double board-certified biologic periodontist at Prestige Periodontal and Implant Center. Expert in implant esthetics, practicing alternative approaches for accelerated healing and health. Together, they founded BioHealth Aesthetics & Wellness, offering personalized treatments for holistic health and aesthetics. Using advanced technology and concierge service, they help patients achieve comprehensive wellness goals.
Microplastics Found in Part of the Brain
According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, Brazilian scientists discovered microplastics in the olfactory bulb, a rounded structure of the brain above each nasal cavity that receives information from the nose and relays it to the brain. Upon analyzing samples of olfactory bulb tissue from 15 deceased individuals, the researchers found tiny microplastics in eight of them, including polypropylene, polyamide, nylon and polyethylene vinyl acetate. Whether these plastics can reach the brain through the olfactory bulb is not clear, but the potential is worrying. While microplastics have been found in the bloodstream and other tissue, their presence in the human brain has not yet been documented.
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Making Hospice Care Sustainable
The hospice industry is witnessing a surge in environmental sustainability efforts. Providers like Agrace Hospice & Supportive Care and Amedisys, Inc. are making strides toward long-term ecological responsibility. Despite the need for initial investments, hospices anticipate cost savings from reduced energy consumption and enhanced staff recruitment and retention. Agrace aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 by investing in renewable energy sources and transitioning to electric vehicles. Similarly, Amedisys has plans to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Other examples, like Hospice of the Western Reserve, demonstrate the ripple effects of sustainability initiatives on the community, aligning with the mission to promote quality of life and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Decreasing Birth Rates Concern Countries
A country needs an average birth rate of 2.1 children per family to naturally replace its population. According to the latest 2022 World Bank Group data, the U.S. birth rate is 1.7, the European Union is at 1.5 and China is at 1.2. Among wealthy countries, South Korea has the lowest birthrate at less than 0.8. In a recent survey, one in two South Korean women of child-bearing age said they had no intention of having children. While the number of children is falling, the number of dogs has doubled since 2018 in South Korea. The sale of dog strollers has quadrupled since 2019, and their sale now exceeds the sale of baby strollers. The drop in the birthrate prompted President Yoon to declare a “demographic national emergency” and called on the government to help avoid an “existential crisis”.
Marine Life Migration Blocked by Infrastructure
Karissa Lear, an aquatic ecologist at Australia’s Murdoch University, observed that a long jetty and rock wall built for a marine loading facility disrupted the migration patterns of young green sawfish in Western Australia. Afraid of predators, these juvenile fish were unable or unwilling to swim around the manmade barrier to get from their shallow nursery to essential feeding grounds. Lear believes that marine animals need a hand in getting around human infrastructure, much like wildlife-crossing bridges help animals cross highways and fish ladders help salmon bypass dams on their way to spawn. Modifications to the design and construction of infrastructure are needed to ensure the sustainability of our oceans.
Anurag
Female Sharks Found Sleeping on a Seabed
Scientists from the University of Tasmania Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies stumbled upon thousands of female Port Jackson sharks sleeping on the seabed. The discovery was made using an underwater robot while on an expedition to Beagle Commonwealth Marine Reserve, a protected area off the coast of Victoria, Australia, and Tasmania. Scientists are puzzled as to why so many sharks were there and why there were only females. One theory is that they had been feasting on local scallops before heading elsewhere to lay their eggs.
New Findings About Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid
Scientists in Europe and the U.S. have discovered some surprising facts about the asteroid that struck the Earth 66 million years ago and wiped out the dinosaurs. By analyzing the dust that covered the Earth following the collision, they surmise that it was formed beyond the orbit of Jupiter in an extremely cold region. The asteroid was rich in water and carbon, making it unique among those that have hit the Earth in the last 500 million years. Additional research is needed to help policymakers implement appropriate countermeasures.
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Blissful Bowls
Celebrating With Soup
by Marlaina Donato
Whether we showcase winter’s root vegetables or come home to comfort food simmering on the stove, soup is a language of love with many dialects: from under-the-weather broths and velvety bisques to slow-cooked stews and stick-to-the-ribs chowders. A bowl of soup can bridge the mundane and the magical, inviting us to slow our fast-paced lives, share the bounty with loved ones and honor recipes of generations past.
“Every time I make soup, even if it’s one I’ve made over and over, it fills me with a sense of wonder that a bunch of disparate ingredients—legumes, grains, raw vegetables, onions, garlic, seasonings—always meld in a way that seems almost miraculous,” marvels Nava Atlas, the Hudson Valley, New York-based author of more than 10 cookbooks, including Vegan Soups and Stews for all Seasons.
Making Vegetables Shine
Eating seasonally can help our bodies transition into winter, and soups that incorporate cold-weather crops offer delicious versatility. “Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to be thankful for the harvest. Soups in the fall are typically a hearty mix of what you may have grown in your garden. These could be rich and creamy tomato, pumpkin or pea soups,” says Sharon Hapton, founder and CEO of nonprofit Soup Sisters, a food-assistance program in 27 cities across Canada. The author of The Soup Sisters and Broth Brothers Cookbook attests that taking a little time to make soup “is a great way to nourish our spirits and reconnect with the food.”
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Conscious Eating
In any combination, rainbow carrots, rutabaga, parsnips, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, leeks and winter squashes pack a punch in flavor, color and texture. Specialoccasion soups can be simple childhood favorites dressed up with the pungent tastes of sage, rosemary, ginger, chiles or coriander seeds. Creamy soups, whether traditional or vegan, pair beautifully with wild rice, roasted pumpkin seeds or toasted pecans. Atlas suggests combining vegetables in surprising ways to take advantage of contrasting flavors, such as adding sweet potatoes and bell peppers to a black bean stew.
Broth Versus Stock
Although broths and stocks can be made using vegetables and/or bones and seasoned with salt and pepper, a broth is thinner in consistency and requires a shorter simmering time, whereas a stock can be simmered for four to six hours, resulting in a heavier texture. Nutritional bone broth is usually simmered for 12 to 36 hours to create a collagenrich stock. All of these can be sipped for a soothing repast or incorporated into other recipes.
Bringing Out Flavor With Salt
Atlas notes, “Most soups benefit from judicious salting to bring out the flavors, but I suggest waiting until the end to add salt, giving the soup time to develop flavor first. And it’s surprising how much of a lift lemon and lime juice can give to soup broth.” For those monitoring their sodium, she recommends salt-free seasoning blends, like Dash, or Spike, a zesty low-sodium option found at health food stores.
The Legacy of a
Treasured Recipe
Holiday time can be bittersweet, especially when lost family members are not at the table, but taking out an old, handed-down recipe is a wonderful way to preserve culinary customs and commemorate the family’s heritage. “Creating delicious food like soup from a loved one’s recipe is more than the ingredient list on a card,” says Hapton. “Use the silver spoon handed down from family to stir the love and rekindle the memories of loved ones. A natural flow of storytelling happens when we cook together, and the ‘dash of this and that’ can make its own lively conversation.”
According to Atlas, “Food traditions are a way to embrace each person’s unique history—where their ancestors were from, what was available to them, what they felt comforted by. Yet, despite all the different traditions, food is a great uniter, a fantastic way to connect us as humans.”
Presenting soup in an elegant tureen and putting out toppings such as chopped fragrant herbs or crushed pink peppercorns at each place setting gives soup a festive, gourmet touch. “Don’t wait for a special occasion to bring out the good dinnerware,” Hapton suggests. “Enjoy it every day, even in some small way.”
Ultimately, gratitude is the most important ingredient. This Thanksgiving, invite each guest at the table to ladle a bowl of soup for the person next to them, offering a single word of appreciation as a form of grace.
Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
Apple Parsnip Cream With Chorizo Sausage
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
¼ cup butter
2 Gala apples, peeled, cored and diced
2 cups parsnips, peeled and diced
½ large onion, finely chopped
2 Tbsp shallots, finely chopped
2 Tbsp roasted red pepper, minced
1 Tbsp roasted garlic, minced
1½ tsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
½ tsp ground allspice
¼ tsp dried thyme
2½ cups chicken stock
1 cup whipping cream with 35 percent milk fat
½ cup dry vermouth
½ cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 chorizo sausage, uncooked, casing removed
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp pepper
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add apples, onion, shallots, red pepper, garlic, ginger, allspice and thyme. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened.
Add the stock and cream and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the apples and parsnips are tender, about 20 minutes.
Transfer the soup ingredients to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Return soup to the pot and add vermouth, olive oil and lemon juice. Reheat gently.
Meanwhile, crumble the chorizo sausage in a small skillet. Cook, stirring often, over medium heat until the sausage is cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls and scatter the chorizo over the top.
Recipe by chef Liana Robberecht and photo by Julie Van Rosendaal from The Soup Sisters and Broth Brothers Cookbook published by Appetite by Random House, used with permission.
Julie Van Rosendaal
Brazilian Black Bean Stew
This vegan version of Brazil’s famous national dish, feijoada, is an abundantly nourishing stew. Optional embellishments include steamed fresh greens and slices of mango and/or papaya.
YIELD: 6 TO 8 SERVINGS
FOR THE RICE
1 cup tomato juice or tomato sauce
3 cups water
1½ cups raw brown rice, rinsed
FOR THE STEW
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1½ cups water
3 to 3½ cups black beans, cooked, or 2 15-oz cans, drained and rinsed
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into short, narrow strips
1 medium green or yellow bell pepper, cut into short, narrow strips
1 cup diced tomatoes
2 small fresh hot green chili peppers, seeded and thinly sliced, divided 1½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried thyme
½ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
For the rice, combine the tomato juice with the water in a large saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Add the rice, then lower the heat and simmer gently with the cover ajar until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 30 minutes. Cover and set the cooked rice aside.
For the stew, heat the oil in a large soup pot. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until translucent. Add the garlic and continue to sauté until both are golden. Stir in the sweet potatoes and water. Bring stew to a slow boil, then lower the heat. Simmer gently over low heat with the cover ajar until the sweet potatoes are just tender but still firm, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Add the beans, bell peppers, tomatoes, one of the chili peppers, cumin and thyme. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes longer, uncovered. The stew should have the consistency of a thick chili. Add a bit more water if it is too thick.
Stir in half of the parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve over the hot cooked rice in shallow bowls and garnish each serving with a little extra parsley and a few slices of the reserved chili pepper.
Recipe and image courtesy of Nava Atlas
Courtesy of Nava Atlas
Mellow Sweet Potato Soup
Subtly spiced with a colorful garnish, this warming soup tempts the eye with an appealing golden color and pleases the palate with the delectable flavor of sweet potatoes.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
SOUP
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
1 large celery stalk, diced
A handful of celery leaves
3 to 4 medium-large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 6 cups)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
1½ cups unsweetened plant-based milk, or as needed
½ lime, juiced
½ lime, sliced thinly for garnish
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
TOPPING
1 Tbsp olive oil
6 kale leaves, preferably lacinato, stemmed and thinly sliced
1½ cups fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels
2 scallions, thinly sliced
¼ cup cilantro leaves
Heat the oil in a soup pot. Add the onions, carrots and celery, and sauté over medium-low heat until all are golden.
Add the celery leaves and diced sweet potato. Add just enough water to cover all but about an inch of the vegetables. Bring to a
slow boil. Stir in the cumin, thyme and nutmeg, then lower the heat. Simmer gently over low heat with the cover ajar until the sweet potatoes and vegetables are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Transfer the solid ingredients from the soup pot to a food processor or blender with about 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Process until smoothly pureed (or leave a bit chunky), then stir back into the soup pot. Alternatively, skip the food processor and insert an immersion blender into the pot and blend the soup until pureed to preferred consistency.
Add enough plant-based milk to give the soup a slightly thick consistency. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes longer.
For the topping, heat the oil in a medium skillet. Add the kale and sauté until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the corn and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes longer. Add the scallions and sauté for another minute. Stir in the cilantro and remove from the heat. Mound a little of this topping mixture on each serving of soup, along with a thin slice or two of fresh lime.
With knowledge that extends beyond any classroom and humility that provokes a familiar kinship, wise elders have been the pillars of communities for millennia. Their nurturing energy, loving warmth and eternal wisdom provide a foundation for learning and growth. By harnessing a connection to nature, reframing cultural roles and cultivating grace and self-care, we all have the capacity to embody the role of a wise elder in our own way.
Nature’s Lessons
“Wise elders are repositories of how to live a good life within nature, and not against it. They are able to perceive and act according to the bigger picture and see the impact of actions now on future generations,” says Dr. Darcia Narvaez, professor of psychology emerita at the University of Notre Dame, president of the nonprofit Kindred World and founder of its initiative, The Evolved Nest.
In her book, The Evolved Nest: Nature’s Way of Raising Children and Creating Connected Communities, Narvaez and co-author G.A. Bradshaw, Ph.D., examine how we can restore natural wellness in our families and communities by living in harmony with nature. She points to the idea of “nestedness” as an inspiration for reexamining our own systems of nurturing, understanding and caring for our young and one another.
“A wise elder is one who is deeply nested. They display horizontal nestedness in that they attend to honoring ancestral wisdom and to living for the well-being of future generations. They display vertical nestedness in that they honor and live with Earth’s
cycles and nature’s laws, but also feel connected to and confident in the cosmos,” Narvaez explains.
Instead of teaching, wise elders act as guides and model behavior for others. “Wise elders know everyone’s path is unique, and everyone has a gift to uncover, develop and share with the community,” advises Narvaez. “They encourage us toward love and openness, instead of bracing against change. They inspire us to work through our fears and know that words matter. It is easy to discourage the spiritual development of others with words. Stories provide an invitation, instead of persuasion or coercion.”
This wisdom often comes from lessons they have embraced when facing challenges. “It’s not that wise elders are naive livers of life. They are scarred. To become self-actualized, one must accept suffering and learn from it,” she says.
At the same time, they acknowledge that every moment is a gift and live life to the fullest. “Wise elders know enjoyment and want others to experience it, too, whether it’s ice
cream, cookies or a sunset. After all, if you are not experiencing foundational joy in your life, something is quite wrong,” asserts Narvaez.
Seeds of Wisdom
A wise elder’s connection with nature is deeply rooted—grounded by the land and inspired by the promise of cultivation. “Seeds are our 400 million-year-old ancestors and elders. Gardens grow us more than we grow them. They nod and bow to seeds; and gardens as teachers are gardens as elders,” says Petra Page-Mann, co-owner of Fruition Seeds, a farm in Naples, New York, that grows and shares regionally adapted seeds.
Founded in 2012, Fruition Seeds is rooted in the idea that each seed, like each of us, is meant to change the world. In August 2024, they shifted from seed sales to sharing seeds as an embodied gift practice, honoring the co-owners’ desire to respect the seeds and practice reciprocity. “This move deliberately mirrors and honors what the seeds are teaching us,” Page-Mann explains. “They are gifts to the Earth, as we all are, and not ours to buy and sell. It’s a way to practice remembering and reimagining a culture of care and
belonging. We are rehydrating our relationship with seeds and the land and moving away from a transactional being to an open place of giving and receiving.”
Page-Mann says, “I think of an elder as someone who inspires, challenges, uplifts and comforts. They are people who can accompany us into our challenges and through them, and not just try to fix problems. I see our relationship to wise elders in the way a river flows and changes on a whim. Sometimes it flows quickly, and at other times it moves smoothly and slowly. There might be rocks under the surface or waterfalls and dams along the way. At any moment in our lives, we experience different elements of that river. The river holds us as elders do: always present, offering diverse forms of medicine. There might be a lightning bolt of wisdom or awareness, followed by a cascade of insight. Other times, it’s just sweet meandering; but we don’t need to paddle or swim because we are held by their flow.”
Rising From Adversity
Wise elders teach us that by leaning into challenges, we can reframe the risks associated with growth. “If we are in our comfort zone, we are safe, and if we are in our panic zone, we are not safe. There’s a discomfort in between. Wise elders are constantly extending their comfort zones and window of tolerance a little wider, so they can move and breathe more freely in that space,” says Page-Mann.
Although anyone can step into elderhood, Page-Mann believes that society needs to reframe its priorities in order to nurture the process. “We don’t have a cohesive cultural fabric for the role of a wise elder,” she points out. “It’s a capitalist and supremacy culture not grounded in love and belonging. Elders have been eroded from our lives. We’re all really shrunken, disconnected versions of ourselves.”
By challenging current priorities and shifting back to the organic flow of the Earth, we can embrace and embody the traits we seek and become role models and guides for others. “There is a natural progression of maturation where we play different roles in the community and can accompany each other with those roles. If we are held in a cohesive cultural fabric of love and belonging, we can step into whatever role is calling us,” Page-Mann asserts.
Self-Care Comes First
While wise elders are generous with their time and attention, they value staying grounded. Cheryl Richardson, the Massachusetts-based author of Self-Care for the Wisdom Years: Practical Ways to Celebrate the Mystery and Wonder of Aging, says that doing inner work allows elders to become more available for others. “Wise elders are full of life, steeped in gratitude, eager and excited for new adventures, and able to respond to anything placed before them with wisdom and grace,” she says. “They face aging and mortality with open eyes and a curious heart. They are self-reflective, committed to personal growth and anxious to invest time and energy into their inner lives. They are also happy to share what they’ve learned about life and aging with others. They make their greatest contribution to society by being a powerful example of what it means to embrace aging and the wisdom it provides.”
According to Richardson, “Wise elders see aging as a gift and an opportunity to learn about themselves in new and different ways. They are able to step back, take a deep breath and check their reactions before responding to life’s challenges. They consciously cultivate patience and self-reflection when faced with adversity. The wisdom years are an excellent time to challenge the voices that cling to old ways of life. It’s an opportunity to focus less on where you should be and more on where you are and what your soul wants. That’s when the magic of the moment sweeps you off your feet.”
Time Is Essential
At a time when we are living longer than ever, Richardson sees an opportunity to maximize our later years. “Now that longevity affords us a second adult life, we have time to evolve even more before we die. When people age consciously and prioritize their emotional and physical health, inner life, intimate connections with others and managing their minds, they age with far less fear and much more aliveness, peace and emotional freedom,” she explains.
Wise elders are in tune with their own capacity and availability, and they understand the importance of setting limits. “The gift of mortality is that it makes it easier to say no to those things that are no longer important. Therefore, boundary-setting becomes easier,” Richardson says. “When you know you have limited time left, you are passionate about spending it wisely. Wise elders have a unique ability to let go of responsibilities that are no longer theirs, and to make space and sit with it. They know when enough is enough and can set firm, loving boundaries. Cultivating these capabilities will not only help us make the most out of our remaining years, but they’ll also mold us into the kind of wise elders so many of us wish we had growing up.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJackson Writes.com.
slobo from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
Patricia Silverstein
Making a Difference in the Diabetes Fight
by Sandra Yeyati
Patricia Silverstein has a dream: to prevent the unnecessary suffering of people with diabetes. Together with her husband, Roger, leading researcher Dr. Camillo Ricordi and numerous other collaborators, she is actively working to make this dream a reality. A cure is on the horizon, and a simple blood test that measures Type 1 diabetes antibodies promises an opportunity to stop disease progression long before it is even diagnosed. Silverstein’s efforts target both of these fronts.
She and Roger established the Silverstein Dream Foundation and have raised nearly $1 million for treatments and cures. She also offers diabetes workshops to underserved communities and speaks with decisionmakers at large corporations and investment firms to drive philanthropic dollars toward the funding of clinical trials required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before approving cutting-edge therapies.
Diabetes Statistics
Diabetes occurs when glucose levels in the bloodstream are too high. Dietary changes, oral medications and insulin are commonly used to regulate this condition. Over time, diabetes can cause a host of health problems such as heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems and kidney disease. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, an estimated 38 million Americans had the disease in 2021—the most common forms being Type 1 (an autoimmune condition that may be caused by genetics) and Type 2 (a form that develops over time as a result of obesity, lack of exercise and other lifestyle factors).
Saving Her Sister
Born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, Silverstein has a younger sister, Laura, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was just 6 years old. In 2020, when Laura was 29, she became gravely ill from disease complications. “She had developed neuropathy and retinopathy and was losing her eyesight, but her severe kidney disease was the wake-up,” explains Silverstein, who went into action mode, desperately looking for a way to save her little sister.
The turning point came upon meeting Dr. Camillo Ricordi, a University of Miami Miller School of Medicine professor of surgery, biomedical engineering, microbiology and immunology, and chief of the Division of Cellular Transplantation; director emeritus of the Diabetes Research Institute; founder of The Cure Alliance; and author of The Healthspan Code.
“In the beginning, Laura was prescribed
omega-3, vitamin D and other supplements to reduce her blood pressure because it was very high,” recalls Silverstein. “Once she was stabilized, Dr. Ricordi proposed a stem cell infusion therapy.” The proposed treatment was not yet available to the public, but Ricordi was able to obtain FDA approval as an emergency life-saving treatment.
“While the infusion helped her glucose control and eliminated her insulin requirements, unfortunately it was unable to block the progression because her kidney disease had already advanced beyond the point of no return,” explains Ricordi, adding that Laura later received a simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant, which saved her life. “Laura’s case was instrumental in helping us obtain approval from the FDA to launch a bigger trial in stage-3 chronic kidney disease,
Courtesy of Patricia Silverstein
where you still have tissue that you can regenerate and induce tissue repair and regeneration.”
Life-Saving Treatments on the Horizon
Kidney and pancreas transplants are generally successful, but they require lifelong anti-rejection drugs, limiting their applicability to children and other at-risk individuals. The Cure Alliance is supporting a clinical trial to replace the most toxic immunosuppressive agent with a new antibody that is much more benign. In early 2025, another trial will test a new technology designed to completely eliminate anti-rejection drugs. (Learn more at iTolerance.com.)
In the 1980s, Ricordi developed a protocol to isolate insulinproducing islet cells from a donor pancreas and introduce these cells in a blood transfusion into the liver, where they act like a double organ that does the job of the liver and the endocrine pancreas. The effect of this transfusion is that the patient no longer needs insulin to modulate blood glucose. “It is very exciting as a procedure, but it has been limited by this need for anti-rejection drugs that limit the applicability to the most severe cases of diabetes,” Ricordi explains. Once the need for anti-rejection drugs is eliminated, there will be a huge demand for this treatment.
The Promise of Early Detection
The Silverstein Dream Foundation is currently funding the GrassrootsHealth Nutrient Research Institute (GHNRI) study, which will test approximately 100 people between the ages of 7 and 25 for Type 1 antibodies, as well as omega-3, vitamin D, magnesium, inflammation and glucose levels, to identify those that are highly predisposed to develop diabetes. Based on the results, participants will receive treatments and supplements, as well as health coaching for dietary and lifestyle changes designed to improve the targeted biomarkers.
“Retesting in six months will hopefully show an improvement in their levels,” Silverstein says. “We hope that in a year, we can start conversations with health authorities in Washington, D.C. about implementing mandatory pediatric screening based on the evidence of our research, so all kids can get tested for Type 1 antibodies as part of their pediatric care, and then have a better understanding
of how to feed and treat these kids to prevent Type 1 diabetes.”
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit online at https://www. nabroward.com/2024/10/31/506408/ patricia-silverstein-making-a-differencein-the-diabetes-fight or scan the QR code.
Courtesy of Camillo Ricordi
Dr. Camillo Ricordi
Green Gadgets for the Home
Smart Choices to Save Money and Preserve Resources
by Deborah Bevilacqua
Many consumers are taking personal action to benefit the environment, such as reducing consumption, altering eating practices and modifying travel. In response to consumer demand, technology and product companies are creating new offerings to reduce carbon footprints, protect the planet and safeguard the environment for future generations. Here is a look at some of those products and technologies.
Dryer Balls: When dropped into the dryer, these spiky rubber balls separate clothes to expedite drying and keep them soft. Because they are reusable, they save money and replace the need for dryer sheets that
are made from non-woven polyester and coated with liquid softeners, fragrance and, in some cases, volatile organic compounds. Eliminating dryer-sheet use reduces the release of microplastics and waste to landfills and waterways.
Hand-Powered Shredders: With a twist of the wrist, documents containing confidential and personal information can be destroyed while conserving energy.
Smart Control Plugs: According to Honeywell, about 25 percent of energy usage in a building comes from plugged-in electronics that sap energy when not in use. Smart plugs
and power strips can detect when a pluggedin device is not in use and shut off its power or can be set to turn off using a timer, saving energy and money. They also provide energy monitoring features that allow users to track their energy consumption and identify high-energy-consuming devices.
Solar-Powered Device Chargers: Solar power used in portable chargers provides energy on the go. It also can be built into devices such as wireless speakers, laptop computer cases and other small electronics, eliminating the need to plug a charger into an outlet or use disposable batteries.
Green Navigation: Global positioning systems (GPS) units are being upgraded to not only help drivers get from point A to B and avoid traffic, but also to provide the most fuel-efficient routes.
Smart Thermostats: These devices allow home or office temperatures to be set remotely from a smartphone app that tracks user preferences and energy usage, allowing people to reduce their heating and cooling bills. Smart thermostat producer ecobee estimates that its products save more than 26 percent on energy costs compared to simply setting a fixed temperature of 72° F.
Solar Water Heaters: While initially more costly to purchase and install, solar water heating systems can benefit the planet and the pocketbook for years. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that they can reduce water heating bills by 50 to 80 percent and protect homeowners from fuel shortages and price hikes.
Green Living Apps: A growing list of phone apps help people live more sustainably, such as Too Good To Go and Olio for sharing
surplus food; the Ecosia search engine that applies a portion of their profits to planting trees; Ailuna and AWorld, which help users form long-lasting eco-friendly habits; and HappyCow to locate vegetarian and vegan restaurants.
Water Monitors: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that undetected water leaks in the average household waste approximately 10,000 gallons of water annually. Installing a water monitoring system uses ultrasonic sensors to find leaks.
Energy-Saving Televisions: ENERGY STAR certification is not just for refrigerators and dryers. These TVs are 25 percent more efficient than conventional models and include the industry’s most popular features.
Greener Smartphones: Although obligatory in today’s world, smartphones come with an environmental cost. When upgrading to the next model, look for brands that use recycled materials, support responsible mining, and recycle and repair their products.
Electric Transportation: Using electric bikes and scooters around town reduces the need for cars and public transportation, and reduces traffic congestion and pollution. Remember to wear a helmet while operating these zero-emission alternatives that cut costs and the rider’s carbon footprint.
Kitchen Composter: The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates food loss and waste at the retail and consumer levels to be more than 30 percent. Kitchen composters turn that waste into nutrient-rich compost for the garden by grinding and drying it. These appliances use activated charcoal filters to eliminate odors and sensors to monitor temperature, moisture and oxygen levels to optimize microbial activity and decomposition.
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Deborah Bevilacqua is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.
Improving Lymphatic Circulation for Better Health and Fitness
by Maya Whitman
Adequate cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation is key for all matters of well-being, including heart health, wound healing, fluid balance and muscle recovery after a workout. To address circulation issues, the advent of compression therapy began as early as 1950 with the invention of compression socks by German engineer and varicose vein sufferer Conrad Jobst. Today, the use of compression gear in the form of boots, leggings, sleeves, bandages, wraps and suits is surging in athletics, as well as physical therapy. In medical settings, the Cleveland Clinic recommends the use of compression bandages, stockings and inflatable wraps to treat swelling and pain in patients experiencing the poor circulation that is often associated with conditions ranging from pregnancy to diabetes and congestive heart failure.
According to market research company SNS Insider, the global compression therapy market—driven not only by athletic demand but also by the rising occurrence of diabetes, lymphedema, varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis in an aging population—is predicted to expand to $7.86 billion by 2032.
Lymphedema and Diabetic Swelling
The lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and tissues that work in conjunction with the circulatory system to maintain healthy fluid levels, filter out
waste products and abnormal cells, help the body absorb fats and support the immune system. “It is like the body’s wastewater treatment system,” explains Brittany Curwen, a certified lymphedema therapist and registered occupational therapist at Therapy Achievements, in Decatur, Alabama. “Compression helps keep the right amount of pressure on the blood vessels to make sure the valves inside the veins work in one direction, so blood and lymphatic fluid gets where it needs to go.”
Inflammatory response is normal during the healing process, but when the lymph
vessels are unable to drain, lymph fluid in an arm, leg or other body part may cause painful swelling called lymphedema. This condition is commonly caused by cancer, radiation treatments, surgery and, in developing countries, parasites. “After surgery, a light elastic compression garment worn during the daytime hours can help [treat lymphedema]. For someone without a history of lymphedema, a garment that applies 10 to 15 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) of pressure can help. These are often found at drugstores or online,” says Curwen, noting that such garments can be worn for several weeks during waking hours until
Sergey Ryzhov /Shutterstock
the swelling subsides and normal activity is resumed. “For someone with more severe swelling, a medical-grade garment is essential to prevent the lymphedema from progressing and causing changes in the skin texture. A medical-grade garment should be prescribed by a physician.”
Swelling is a common occurrence when diabetes is accompanied by other diseases that impact circulation, such as cardiovascular disease or kidney disease, which can promote pooling of fluid in the legs and feet. A 2023 meta-review published in International Wound Journal found sustained graduated compression to be useful in healing diabetic-related leg sores from pooled blood.
Active Lifestyles
While hitting the gym or going for a long hike does a body good, most people want to avoid post-workout discomfort, and that is where compression clothing can help. By applying pressure to specific body parts, this clothing improves circulation and ultimately supports muscle recovery. “After intense physical activity, lactic acid is produced as a byproduct of anaerobic respiration, which occurs when your muscles need more energy than your body can supply through oxygen alone,” explains Tabitha Eaves, owner of Rise Up Wellness, in Bloomfield, Michigan. “Lactic acid buildup can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness during and after exercise. The recovery process involves the body clearing out this lactic acid and other metabolic waste products, which helps to reduce muscle soreness, inflammation and swelling, speeding up the overall recovery time.”
A 2021 study published in BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation involving mostly endurance athletes—predominately runners—reported that compression garments were worn on their lower extremities to prevent injury or reduce symptoms of a current injury, and users perceived a faster post-exercise recovery (more than 80 percent), as well as improved sports performance (more than 70 percent).
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therapy, which uses air to apply pressure to a body part, thereby mimicking a natural muscle-pump action. She suggests that this type of pneumatic compression typically can be used three to four times a week. Some athletes employ it daily, especially during periods of intense training. She adds, “Posttherapy, most users report feeling relaxed, with some experiencing a slight tingling sensation as circulation increases.”
While compression therapy is generally safe for most people, Curwen cautions anyone with peripheral artery disease, congestive heart failure, advanced kidney disease or unmanaged high blood pressure to obtain a physician’s approval before using compression therapy or compression garments.
Maya Whitman is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.
Raising Children To Be Thankful
Benefits of Feeling and Expressing Appreciation
by Christina Connors
American adults are feeling increasingly troubled. According to a 2024 American Psychiatric Association poll, approximately 43 percent of respondents say they are more anxious now than in previous years (up from 32 percent in 2022), with current events like the economy, elections and gun violence driving 70 percent of worries.
As is often the case, children can be affected by the emotional state of adults in their lives. A 2022 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders reported that children of anxious parents are at higher risk of developing anxiety disorders and twice as likely to have anxiety problems than children of non-anxious parents.
To mitigate this trend, parents, guardians and teachers have a powerful tool at their disposal: gratitude. By championing, modeling and encouraging a grateful heart, they can teach kids to temper episodes of anxiety and regain a sense of safety.
Benefits of Gratitude
“Gratitude is one of these micro-behaviors that creates macro-change,” says Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a Connecticut-based certified school psychologist, neurofeedback
provider, author, speaker and podcast host specializing in childhood mental health. “When we have gratitude, there are a lot of overall benefits to our health. Research has shown that gratitude can trigger the brain to release hormones and neurotransmitters that are associated with happiness, such as dopamine and serotonin. Having a gratitude practice as a family can even break negative patterns in the family ecosystem, moving toward generational mental wealth.”
“Humans are hardwired to notice and acknowledge negative experiences due to our natural instinct for survival, but we can overcome our negative biases by incorporating gratitude into our daily routines,” says Andrea Trank, an integrative medicine health coach, HeartMath trainer and trauma-sensitive practitioner in Norfolk, Virginia. “We can shift from feelings of sadness, anxiety and anger to feelings of hope and calm simply by focusing on what we are grateful for. Gratitude also supports immune health, helps us respond, rather than react, to life’s stressors, and shifts the rhythm of the heart into physiological coherence, resulting in the release of oxytocin and DHEA [dehydroepiandrosterone], which promote positive feelings.”
Modeling Gratitude
One of the most effective ways to teach children to be grateful is to express our own gratitude with actions and words.
“Forcing our children to be grateful doesn’t work. Model gratitude in a natural and authentic way,” Trank advises. “Notice the little things, and when you are out as a family, slow down and verbally point out the moments of beauty and generosity you see around you. Showing gratitude through action is the way your child will naturally be inspired to do the same.”
Practicing gratitude as a family can be fun, and it’s a great way to connect deeply with one another. Invite everyone around the dinner table to identify the things for which they are grateful or reflect on moments of gratitude that they witnessed throughout the day. Such positive conversations help develop optimistic outlooks for the whole family. Make it a routine for each family member to simply say “Thank you” upon waking, and to jot down thoughts of gratitude in a journal before the lights go off at the end of the day.
The Thank-You Note
Handwritten thank-you notes are being replaced by texts, emails and emojis as a means of expressing gratitude, but if parents encourage their daughters and sons to see the value of a written note at a young age, this worthwhile activity can become second nature for a child. While it takes a little more time than composing a text, scribing a thoughtful and meaningful written message that expresses gratitude can be read over and over again and reminds the recipient that they matter. When we receive gratitude from others, we are accepting a gift that strengthens the bonds of connection.
Research in 2018 published in Psychological Science points out that people underestimate the power of expressing gratitude and overestimate how awkward it will be, which may keep them from engaging in this impactful practice. This Thanksgiving, embrace the power of gratitude and share it with the next generation to make a positive impact on everyone’s mental health.
Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinasCottage444.com.
Part Two of Special Series on Fertility
Whole Health Approaches to Women’s Infertility
by Dr. Susan Fox, DACM, LAc., FABORM
For many couples, starting a family marks a beautiful chapter of life. However, the path is not always straightforward for everyone. Tackling infertility can be an emotional rollercoaster, with emotions ranging from hope to heartache.
For women, the causes of infertility may range from health conditions like hormonal imbalances, ovarian dysfunction and endometriosis; and lifestyle causes such as poor diet, exposure to environmental toxins and weight management; to emotional and mental causes including anxiety, depression, stress and trauma.
Understanding the root causes of infertility is crucial; it’s about unraveling the complex web of underlying issues. In addition to standard blood tests, there are new functional medicine tests for finding the root causes of infertility challenges, including a comprehensive assessment of hormonal imbalances, a test to assess microbiome and detect gastrointestinal pathogens, and a test that provides both insights into nutritional deficiencies and guidance on diet and supplementation.
Research indicates that obesity makes it harder to conceive and leads to more miscarriages. Being underweight increases the risk of ovulatory disorder. A functional medicine or integrative health approach includes managing diet and improving nutrition that also works to balance hormones and microbiomes.
Lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol and caffeine consumption are also addressed.
A mother’s toxic load can be passed to an unborn child through the umbilical cord. Detoxification prior to trying to conceive can improve not only the mother’s whole health, but her fertile health and the health of her baby.
While not fully understood, research has indicated a correlation between increased stress and decreased likelihood of egg fertilization. Incorporating exercise and mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga is part of a comprehensive approach to creating the ideal environment for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Susan Fox is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Marin County, California, and has specialized in working with women and couples navigating fertility challenge for more than 20 years. Connect at HealthYouniversity.co and DrSusanFox.com.
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Electromagnetic Therapy for Dogs
Non-Invasive Relief for Pain and Wound Healing
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Originally developed for human medicine, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy is becoming increasingly popular in pet care. A 2018 study published in Research in Veterinary Science found it to be a safe, non-invasive veterinary treatment for bone and wound healing, osteoarthritis, inflammation and post-operative pain.
How PEMF Therapy Works
“Everybody needs electric fields and magnetic fields to function properly,” explains Lori Schmidt, a holistic pet-health coach and certified PEMF practitioner for people, pets and livestock in Newtonville, New Jersey. “PEMF provides these in a concentrated form, helping to recharge cells and restore energy balance.”
The therapy stimulates the mitochondria, which are membrane-bound cell structures that generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cell’s biochemical reactions, and boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate, the primary source of energy for all living organisms at the cellular level and an essential element for healing.
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The frequencies used in PEMF therapy typically range from five to 30 Hertz, which aligns with the body’s natural electromagnetic range. These pulses penetrate tissues, bones and organs, helping to alleviate pain, reduce swelling and promote tissue regeneration. “The energy from PEMF can go up to 16 inches into the body, making it effective even through casts or thick tissues,” Schmidt explains.
Benefits for Dogs
PEMF therapy offers a wide range of benefits for dogs.
• Pain Relief: PEMF therapy has been shown to reduce pain and discomfort in dogs with chronic conditions like arthritis. In a 2012 Italian study of dogs with osteoarthritis, 25 dogs were given a session of PEMF every day for 20 days, and 15 dogs in the control group were treated with a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug every day for 20 days. While both groups showed significant improvement in pain relief and mobility during the treatment
period, only the PEMF group sustained the improvements for 12 months.
• Improved Mobility: By reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, PEMF therapy helps improve mobility in dogs with joint issues or injuries. “I’ve worked on dogs with tendon and ligament problems, and the results have been impressive, including reduced pain, increased mobility and overall better quality of life,” Schmidt attests.
• Wound Healing: PEMF therapy accelerates the healing of wounds by enhancing blood flow and cellular repair processes. In a 1998 study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research involving 12 beagles with sutured wounds, six dogs that were treated with PEMF twice a day beginning on the day before surgery and ending 21 days after surgery showed faster wound closure compared to the other six dogs that received no such treatments.
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• Stress and Anxiety Reduction: PEMF therapy has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it beneficial for dogs with anxiety or stress-related behaviors. “PEMF promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers,” says Schmidt.
While PEMF therapy offers numerous benefits, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new treatment, particularly for dogs with specific health conditions like cancer or heart issues. “PEMF can be a powerful tool for improving quality of life, but it should always be used under the guidance of a qualified professional,” notes Schmidt. “It’s crucial to tailor the treatment to each dog’s condition and to monitor their response carefully.” With the right approach, PEMF therapy may be the key to unlocking better health and well-being for dogs.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Calendar of Events
NOTE: Visit NAPalmBeach.com/calendar to Add Your Event by the 10th of the month for print; certain restrictions apply. Email NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com for details on using Natural Awakenings to promote events online and in print!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Free Intro to Herbal Medicine — noon1pm. Selecting medicinal herbs and how vibrational flower essences and earth-based practices fit into a holistic health model. Herbs & Owls, 725 N. Highway A1A, D-103, Jupiter. 561-768-9005. HerbsAndOwls.com/classes
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
Falling Awake with Yoga Nidra — 6-7pm, $40. One hour class = 3 hours of sleep. Be prompt. Limitless Potentials, 351 S US Hwy One, Ste 100, Jupiter. Register online for in-person or Zoom class: LimitlessPotentials.com/yogafun-calendar.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Falling Awake with Yoga Nidra — 6-7pm, $40. One hour class = 3 hours of sleep. Be prompt. Limitless Potentials, 351 S US Hwy One, Ste 100, Jupiter. Register online for in-person or Zoom class: LimitlessPotentials.com/yogafun-calendar
Upcoming Events
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14
Free Intro to Herbal Medicine — noon1pm. Selecting medicinal herbs and how vibrational flower essences and earth-based practices fit into a holistic health model. Herbs & Owls, 725 N. Highway A1A, D-103, Jupiter. 561-768-9005. HerbsAndOwls.com/classes.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2025
StaarCon 5 — 9am–9pm, first of threeday 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.
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 plantbased chefs. Book by Nov 15 and Save $100 per person.. HolisticHolidayAtSea.com
Ongoing Events
Today
Highlight Your Ongoing Event Here! — Our readers attend published health and wellness events. Order using our online system at NAPalmBeach.com. Due date for ordering is the 10th of the month for the following month’s publication.
Monday
Slow Flow Vinyasa at Arcana Yoga— 12pm, Mon, Wed, Fri, $25. Our Slow Flow Vinyasa classes emphasize gentle transitions and longer holds in each posture, creating a nurturing and meditative experience. Register at ArcanaYogaStudio.com/ schedule/ 561-787-8036.
Friday
Holistic Health Expert Consultation — Noon-5pm. 1st Friday, Explore insights for health and spiritual well-being. Experience mind, body, spirit healing. Enhance your life with nutritional support and spiritual guidance. Michelle Cohen, Foundation for Divine Love, 505-501-0501.
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, 827 Donald Ross Rd, Juno Beach. Limited registrations 561-650-2226. facebook.com/sootheyoursouljunobeach.
Room For Rent
Room Available for Rent – in a beautiful healing center in Delray Beach. Call 561-498-1414.
Room Available for Rent – in beautiful historic home in WPB. Looking for conscientious person. 323-640-9710.
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Acupuncture
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Alternative Medicine
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16244 S. Military Trail, Suite 120 Delray Beach FL 33484
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Dr. Esther Elisha, AP is a Hadassah Medical School graduate MD practicing alternative medicine.
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Chiropractic Physician
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Craniosacral Therapy
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Dental Health
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Functional Medicine
MERNA MATILSKY, M.D., FAARM, AND ABAARM
Boca Center for Healthy Living 2900 N. Military Trail, Suite 245 Boca Raton, FL 33431
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Services Provided by Dr. Matilsky include Integrative Medicine, Age Management Medicine, BioIdentical Hormone Therapy, Healthy Lifestyle Management, and Weight Loss Programs.
Herbal Medicine
HERBS & OWLS
Gina Kearney, RH (AHG), Clinical Herbalist
725 N Hwy A1A, D-10, Jupiter, 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 and roots plus, tinctures, oils, crystals and more! See ad page 27.
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 13 years! See ad page 11
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 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
Integration of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Medicine. Holistic Veterinary Care for our animal friends. See ads on page 6 and 19. By appointment only.
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 Medicine
DEBORAH A. DEMARTA, MD, FACS, FAARFM
Institute of Health & Wellness 218 SW Atlanta Ave, Stuart, 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 12.
“It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.” ~ Mark Twain
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.
Massage
PREMIER MEDICAL MASSAGE
Michell Robinson
1025 N L St, Lake Worth Beach, 33469
561-900-6743
MarPerkins561@gmail.com
PremierMedicalMassage.com
Expert medical massage therapist specializing in pain relief and improved mobility. Helping those who’ve struggled to find effective solutions reclaim comfort and freedom of movement.
Mental Health
LIMITLESS POTENTIALS
Dr. Kathryn Shafer
351 S US Hwy 1, Ste 100 Jupiter FL 33477
561-799-6789
LimitlessPotentials.com
Transform your life through holistic mental health counseling. Experience powerful mind-body therapies including Brainspotting, CBT, EMDR, and Yoga Nidra. Whether in Jupiter or via Zoom, find support to overcome challenges and unlock your limitless potential. Individual, couples, and group sessions available. Begin your healing journey today. See ad page 13.
Psychic
TARA KARRON
561-444-8102, West Palm Beach
TaraKarron@live.com
TaraKarron.com
Tara channels Archangel Michael and your spirit guides to offer clarity and closure using third eye visions and cards.
Video chat or in-person sessions available.
Spiritual Life Coach
ORACLE OASIS
561-316-9535
Info@OracleOasis.com OracleOasis.com
Unlock clarity and perspective through mystical guidance. Our intuitive readings using Tarot, Oracle cards, and pendulum dowsing equip your inner-knowing and empower your decisions.
Supplements
THE HERBAN SHAMAN
561-254-8692
Contact@TheHerbanShaman.com TheHerbanShaman.com
Retail and wholesale supplements. Certified Organic, All Natural Ingredients. Offering you the cleanest products fueled with extraordinary benefits to target your health needs. See ad page 18.
Monitor your body for inflammatory changes and get to the root cause. Clinical Thermography offers NonInvasive Full Body & Breast Imaging for Men & Women.
Want better health? Try going raw vegan! Amy’s 3-step transformational course will improve your life, with support and inspiration every step of the way.
Wellness
TRANSITIONS WELLNESS & PERFORMANCE CENTER
14141 US Hwy 1, Juno Beach 33408 561-402-6132
Info@StayCalmAndFloat.com StayCalmAndFloat.com
Relax • Recover • Restore Yourself with our Amazing services such as: Infrared Sauna • Cold Plunge • Hyperbaric Chamber • Red Light Therapy Bed • Salt (Halotherapy) Chamber • Sensory Deprivation (Float) Room • Vibroacoustic Bed. You’ll be glad you did!
Yoga
EVOLVE YOGA & WELLNESS
Neil Berger 1009 N. Dixie Hwy West Palm Beach, Fl 33461 561-890-5880
Info@EvolveYogaWPB.com
Discover a soothing oasis for mind and body. Experience rejuvenating yoga classes, invigorating cold plunges, and relaxing infrared saunas. Nourish yourself with healthy foods in our tranquil studio.
“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” ~ Nelson Mandela
