Natural Awakenings Naples/Fort Myers- August 2023

COLLIER / LEE EDITION

Publisher Sharon Bruckman

Editors Linda Sechrist

Martin Miron

Randy Kambic

Theresa Archer

Design & Production

Contributing Writers

Sales & Marketing

C. Michele Rose

Lisa Avery

Linda Sechrist

Sandra Yeyati

Christine Miller

Lisa Doyle-Mitchell

Accounting Amie Delozier

Website Kristy Mayer

CONTACT US

General: 239-350-0141

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

Publisher: 239-207-2775

SharonB@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

Digital subscriptions are available through SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

National Editor Sandra Yeyati

Editor Brooke Goode

Copy Editor/Proofreader Melanie Rankin

Design & Production Gabrielle W-Perillo

National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

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

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies

at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Nature’s Germ Killer Copper can stop germs

before you get sick

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast.

Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria that cause illness.

Colds, flu, and many other illnesses start when viruses get in your nose and multiply. If you don’t stop them early, they spread and cause misery.

Hundreds of studies confirm copper kills germs like viruses, bacteria, and fungus almost instantly, just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about germs. Now we do.

The National Institutes of Health and the American Society for Microbiology vouch for the power of copper to kill germs.

Scientists say copper’s high conductance disrupts the electrical balance in a germ cell and destroys it in seconds.

The EPA recommends hospitals use copper for touch surfaces such as faucets and doorknobs. This cuts the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saves lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He

made a smooth copper probe with a tip to fit in the bottom of the nostril where viruses collect.

When he felt a tickle in his nose like a cold about to start, he rubbed the copper gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never happened.” That was 2012.

Now he’s gone 11 years without a cold. “I used to get 2-3 bad colds every year. Now I use my CopperZap right away at any sign I am about to get sick.”

After the initial success, he asked relatives and friends to try it.

Users say:

“It works! I love it!”

“I can’t believe how good my nose feels.”

“Is it supposed to work that fast?”

“One of the best presents ever.”

“Sixteen flights, not a sniffle!”

“Cold sores gone!”

“It saved me last holidays. The kids all got sick, but not me.”

“I am shocked! My sinus cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

“Best sleep I’ve had in years!”

They all said it worked, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it. 99% said copper worked if they used it right away at the first sign of bad germs, like a tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat.

Soon people found other things they could use it against:

Colds and Flu

Covid

Sinus trouble from germs

Cold sores or fever blisters

Canker sores that get infected

Mold allergies

Congestion or stuffiness

Drippy nose

Hay fever worsened by bacteria

Strep throat

Pink Eye and Styes

Skin infections

Infected sores

Cuts or wounds getting infected

Thrush and Tongue Infections

Warts

Ringworm

The handle is curved and textured to increase contact with fingers and hands in case you touch things sick people may have touched.

Scientists placed millions of viruses on copper. “The viruses started to die literally as soon as they touched it,” said Dr. Bill Keevil.

The EPA says copper works just as well when tarnished. Easy to clean or polish.

Made in America entirely of pure US copper. Comes with Directions. 90-day Money-back Guarantee. Price $79.95. Get $10 off each with code NATA36 .

See www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 888-411-6114.

Buy once, use forever.

Statements not evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New research: Copper kills bad germs in seconds.

Healthy Summer Greetings

I felt it would be nice to hear from our hard-working editor, Linda Sechrist this month. Linda has been working her magic behind the scenes for the past 20 years, giving readers much of our editorial content each month. Not only is she busy with Natural Awakenings but she’s also President of the SWFL RESET Center in Ft. Myers and supports many environmental organizations and important causes such as signing The Florida Right to Clean Movement (FloridaRightToCleanWater. org). I feel extremely blessed by our collaboration and friendship.

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher

Twenty Short Years

Twenty years went by in a flash. Doing what I loved and being aligned with my purpose, time didn’t seem to exist each month as I was interviewing people, listening to their stories, and writing articles for 244 issues. I love to listen to people’s stories. It began in sixth grade when my teacher, Mrs. Snyder, read the Adventures of Tom Sawyer to our class. The characters, Becky Tatcher, Huckleberry Finn, and Injun Joe sprang to life and sparked my imagination when I heard Mark Twain’s words. I think I’ve been enthralled with listening ever since.

This month, I interviewed one of my favorite authors, Phil Cousineau, who wrote The Art of Pilgrimage. You won’t see the results of that interview until September, when you read my feature story on travel. Because of The Art of Pilgrimage and Crossing to Avalon by Jean Shinoda Bolen, in 2000, my daughter and I had our pilgrimage to sacred sites in England.

Interviewing people I admire and whose books I’ve read is my greatest joy. Reading the great luminaries of our times and having phone conversations with them, that I turned into articles, is what helped to raise my consciousness. This is why I so enjoyed interviewing Fort Myers resident, Kandy Love, for Local Awakenings. Listening to stories of how people awaken, how it changes their lives and affects their decisions usually gives me goosebumps as I so often hear parts of my story in theirs.

Naples resident, Josephine DeVincenzi, is our Reader Spotlight. I met the cofounder of the Carbon CREW (Carbon Reduction for Earth Wellbeing) Project, at the Climate Summit. She, like me, is concerned about what’s happening to Earth and hopeful that those who join her book club and read 2040: A Handbook for the Regeneration based on the documentary 2040, by Damon Gameau, will become equally as concerned and hopeful.

After so many years and so many interviews, I’ve become friends with people I’ve interviewed. Terri Evans, owner of Tae Healthy Aging, and Jennifer Alvarez Linguidi, owner of Purely You Spa, are among them. Their stories this month fascinated me so much that I might just try Terri’s acupuncture facelift and Jennifer’s sauna with chromotherapy. I also might get curious enough to check out Purely You’s Cold Plunge at the BioHack Launch this month.

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Natural Awakenings

Linda Sechrist, Editor

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

HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, contact Christine Miller at 239-272-8155 or email ChristineM@ SWFLnaturalawakenings.com for Collier County or Lisa Doyle at 239-851-4729 or email LisaD@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com for Lee County. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Email articles, news items and ideas to: SharonB@ swflNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. Or visit: SWFLnaturalawakenings.com/ Resources

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

Submit print and online events at swfl.NaturalAwakenings. com/pages/calendar-listings. Email NAMcalendar@ SWFLnaturalawakenings.com with questions

REGIONAL MARKETS

Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! NaturalAwakeningsPublishingCorp.isagrowingfranchised familyoflocallyownedmagazinesservingcommunitiessince 1994.Toplaceyouradinothermarketscall239-206-2000.For franchisingopportunitiescall 239-206-2000oremailNatural Awakenings@KnoWEwell.com.

Holistic Harmony to Provide Herbal Apothecary Line

Carmen Portner, owner of Holistic Harmony LLC, expects to make a full herbal apothecary scope of more than 200 herbs and handmade tinctures available beginning in September at 245 Stanford Court, Suite 601-2, in Naples. Orders of individualized tinctures, powders, teas, salves, oils and more can be purchased at the store or delivered.

“We have carefully selected herbs from the Chinese, Western and Ayurvedic traditions that can be safely and successfully used to address a wide variety of health concerns,” says Portner, a clinical herbalist who graduated from the East West School of Planetary Herbology, in Ben Lomond, California. “We specialize in women’s issues, digestive issues, low immunity, poor sleep, low energy, stress and tension, among others.”

Free, 15-minute herbal consultations to see if the substances are the right fit for potential customers are provided on an in-person or online basis.

For more information, to arrange for a consultation or make an appointment, call 239-688-4585, email info@HolisticHarmonyllc.com or visit HolisticHarmonyllc.com. See ad, page 19.

Peace Day Block Party in Downtown Fort Myers

Asits most recent venue Wa-Ke-Hatchee Park is not yet available for hosting events following Hurricane Ian, the 16th annual Southwest Florida Peace Day Celebration honoring the International Day of Peace will take the form of a block party from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 24 along Cottage Street, surrounding CasaShanti, in downtown Fort Myers. With the theme Community: Flow with It! Grow with It!, the free, fun, family and pet-friendly event will feature fun activities, vendor and artisan booths and other opportunities to connect with the community.

There will be delicious vegetarian, vegan, omnivore and other food; live music and DJs hosted by Jenni B, of All Smiles Entertainment, plus other entertainment such as yoga, tai chi, massage, reiki and crystal bowl sound baths; area nonprofit organizations; a butterfly tent and bounce house, along with other kids’ recreational and artistic activities such as face painting and giveaways; a singalong session conducted by Family Music Time and more. Attendees can also donate food and supplies for abuse and counseling treatment, along with blood.

For more information, including on being a sponsorship and vending, call Zachari VanDyne at 239-560-5224 or Liz Loredo at 239-839-4482, email swfl4peace@email.com or follow the event on Facebook. See ad, page 31.

Carmen Portner

Lloyd to Host Two Events at Goddess I AM

Inspirational healer Ken Lloyd will present two events this month at Goddess I AM, in Naples. Llyod will give a free lecture from 1 to 2 p.m. on August 12 and lead a group healing session during the same period the next day.

Lloyd can access spiritual technology which provides him the incredible gift to rapidly heal the body through seeing, communicating with and removing energies that are impacting the body, mind and soul. Issues he addresses include physical pain and discomfort; disease; childhood, ancestral and past-life trauma; soul contracts; psychic attacks; trapped emotions; and many more low-frequency energies that can prevent bodies from self-healing.

Lloyd, who has performed several sold-out events at the Sarasota Cosmic Center, will also be available at Goddess I AM in the future for similar events, plus private sessions.

Cost for healing event: $75. Location: 600 Goodlette Rd. N., Ste. 103. For more information, register for either event or for a discount on private sessions, call 239-228-6949 or visit GoddessIAM.com to learn more. See ad, page 41.

Spark Health Offers Castor Oil Pack Sessions

Spark Health Technologies, in Naples, is offering one-hour organic castor oil pack sessions for abdominal bloating and other issues. Clients will also breathe hydrogen gas, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory, as well as lie on a Bio Electro Magnetic Energy Regulation (BEMER) Mat to promote microcirculation of oxygen. After the procedure, customers can take their castor oil kit home, including organic oil and a hot water bottle, to self-administer for up to 30 more sessions.

“As mentioned in the book The Oil That Heals, by Dr. William McGarey, along with other great information, castor oil is highly effective in breaking up scar tissue, reducing cysts and inflammation, and helping to clear out debris in the intestines,” says owner Sue Mahany.

Cost is $190 for 90-minute appointment and take-home kit. Location: 11983 Tamiami Tr., Ste. 150. For more information or to make an appointment, call 802-752-6342 or visit SparkHealthTechnologies.com. See ad, page 29.

Ken Lloyd

Maximizing Lutein in Green Smoothies

Research indicates that lutein is essential for eye health, suppresses inflammation and offers cardiovascular health benefits. Because the human body cannot make this powerful antioxidant, it is important to include it in the diet by eating dark, leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale.

A new study in the journal Nutrients has found that coconut milk is the most effective plantbased milk to liberate lutein from spinach in green smoothies. The scientists from Linköping University, in Sweden, tested 14 liquids, and only four increased lutein liberation in spinach smoothies. Compared to blending spinach with water alone, coconut milk without additives was found to improve lutein liberation by 42 percent. Improved lutein liberation was also found with high-fat cow’s milk (36 percent), medium-fat cow’s milk (30 percent) and coconut milk with additives (25 percent). Researchers noted that soy milk with and without additives actually reduced lutein liberation by 40 percent and 61 percent, respectively.

Reducing Pain With Music Therapy

Diet May Impact Risk of Miscarriage

One in six pregnancies ends in miscarriage. While there are many known causes, including chromosomal problems and infections in the womb, nearly half of pregnancy losses remain unexplained.

Researchers at the University of Birmingham, in the UK, analyzed 20 studies that examined the eating habits of 63,838 healthy women of childbearing age in the months before and shortly after conception to see whether there was evidence of an association with a lower or higher chance of miscarriage. The review, published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, found that, compared to low consumption, high intake of fruit was associated with a 61 percent reduction in miscarriage risk, and high vegetable intake was associated with a 41 percent reduction.

Risk reduction was also linked to dairy products (37 percent), grains (33 percent), seafood (19 percent) and eggs (19 percent). The evidence was uncertain for red meat, white meat, fat and oil, and sugar substitutes. The researchers looked at whether specific types of diets (such as the Mediterranean Diet or Fertility Diet) were also linked to miscarriage risk, but they could not find evidence that following any of these diets lowered or raised risk.

A new study in the journal PAIN Reports conducted by researchers at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health, in Cleveland, looked at patient outcomes in pain reduction after music therapy. The study examined music therapy interventions provided to 1,056 adults that reported moderate to severe pre-session pain, anxiety or stress. Interventions included listening to live, music-assisted relaxation and imagery, and active music making. After a single music therapy session, the patients reported clinically significant reductions in pain, anxiety and stress.

Additionally, patients receiving a music therapy session in which pain management was a goal were 4.32 times more likely to report pain reduction than those receiving the therapy without such a goal. While music therapy may be an effective, non-drug therapy for acute pain and distress management, additional research is needed to determine which characteristics of music therapy interventions influence pain improvements.

Angel Alexis LunaLarios/ShutterStock.com

Photo by 13MoonsPublishingServices.com

Climate Victory Gardens

During World War II, an estimated 20 million Americans planted individual and community “victory gardens” to assist the war efforts by producing more than 40 percent of the fresh fruits and vegetables consumed in the country at the time. As the world faces a different kind of threat today, Green America is encouraging and training people to plant “climate victory gardens” to restore soil health and draw down carbon as a way to help solve the climate crisis.

The project invites people to log their garden on an online map (GreenAmerica.org/climate-victory-gardens), showing the cumulative impact of their effort. More than 20,000 climate victory gardens have already been planted, collectively sequestering approximately 4,740 tons of carbon per year, which is equivalent to eliminating the emissions from driving more than 39 million miles.

The mission of Green America, a nonprofit, is to mobilize and empower consumers, investors, businesses and the marketplace to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society. Green America provides information on regenerative gardening in down-to-earth terms for beginners and seasoned pros. They also provide resources on related topics, such as organic fertilizers and pesticides, raising chickens, growing food indoors, composting, supporting pollinators and building a rain barrel.

Two August Super Moons Explained

by Linda Sechrist

The August sky will grace astronomers and astrologists with two full moons this year. According to EarthSky.org, this phenomenon occurs every two to three years. To celebrate, Laurie Barraco, owner of The Mystical Moon, with locations in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, is hosting full moon ceremonies on August 1 and August 29.

According to The Farmer’s Almanac, every full moon has a name, including English translations of Native American names and others rooted in Celtic, AngloSaxon and Germanic languages. The name hints at something about the natural world at the time of the moon. The August 1 Sturgeon Moon originated when the large fish were easiest to catch in the Great Lakes. Known as living fossils, sturgeon have had an exceptionally slow evolution, undergoing little change in appearance over time. Perhaps as mentioned in Spirituality and Health, the fish represent the vulnerable parts of us that have been frozen in the past until it is time to rise to the surface and be held with gentleness. “Greet them with kindness and listen for what they may have to teach us, rather than trying to force them back into the dark. It doesn’t have to be a struggle,” says Barraco.

The August 29 Blue Moon is designated whenever two full moons occur within a calendar month every two to three years. Considered a rare and magical event in astrology, the blue moon is said to bring about a heightened sense of awareness and intuition. It is an ideal time for healing, meditation and spiritual practices. Both August 1 and August 29 are supermoons that appear slightly larger than usual and cast about 30

percent more light on the Earth. Closer than usual in its elliptic orbit at the same time the moon is full, more of the sun’s rays are reflected from its surface.

“At my full moon ceremonies, I’ll talk about the different energies of each moon,” says Barraco. “The August 1 full moon is in Aquarius, which is about the collective energies, the greater good, what are we here for and what we have to share with our fellow journeyers. The August 29 moon in Pisces is about intuition and recalibration with your divine self and fine-tuning your spiritual gifts. In the middle of the super moons there is the 8:8 Lionsgate Portal, which appears to be spirit’s way of moving each of us along on our path, bringing up certain things to help realign and reevaluate where you’re going with your purpose.”

Rituals that Barraco performs at the full moon are cord-cutting, lighting candles, forming intention and bringing a closure to unfinished business. Ceremonies on a full moon are good, but sometimes it is cloudy or just not doable. Barraco notes, “You can work with the energy of the full moon the day before, the day of and the day after, but if you can look at the beautiful moon and do ceremony, why not? It’s very mystical.”

The $25 full moon ceremony at 7 p.m., Aug. 1, will take place at the Mystical Moon, 8951 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Ste. 255, in Bonita Springs. For information on the Aug. 29 moon celebration, call 239-301-0655. Barraco will speak for about the two full moons and the Lion’s Gate Portal at 10 a.m., Aug. 7, online (free) at Tinyurl.com/LaurieBarraco. Visit TheMysticalMoon.com for online calendars and to sign up for the newsletter.

Laurie Barraco

Meet Josephine DeVincenzi, Ed.D.

Naples Resident

Work: retired educator of 38 years in Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.

Proudest Achievement: Obtaining a doctorate in education to become the best educator possible and the best high school principal that I could be at the age of 35.

Expectations for the Future: Inspiring people to do their best in building a regenerative future for a healthy planet now.

Favorite APP: Climate Action Now.

Favorite websites: CarboCrewProject.org.

Local causes supported: Conservancy of SWFL volunteer as boardwalk naturalist; Audubon Corkscrew National Swamp volunteer; Unitarian Universalist (UUCGN) member.

Most frequented healthy food restaurant: True Food Kitchen.

Where you pick up your copy of Natural Awakenings: Digital version in my inbox—saves paper and transportation/energy distribution.

How I invest in my community: Volunteering and making daily choices to be a good neighbor and friend of the planet.

Favorite inspirational quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~

Margaret Mead

What I am doing to be the change I want to see in in the world: I’m a cofounder of the Carbon CREW (Carbon Reduction for Earth Wellbeing) Project and I lead CREWs of people to build Personal Climate Action Plans (PCAPs) to commit to the most impactful changes they can make using drawdown strategies.

New Species Found in Deep-Sea Mining Zone

Biologists have discovered more than 5,000 new species of marine life in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), an untouched seabed in the Pacific Ocean spanning nearly 2 million square miles between Hawaii sripfoto/ShutterStock.com

and Mexico. Remarkably, approximately 90 percent of the species are entirely new to science. In a paper published in the journal Current Biology, scientists provided the first list of CCZ species, although most of them have not yet been named or described. The checklist focuses on multicellular animals dwelling on the ocean floor.

This research is crucial for assessing the potential consequences of deep-sea mining in the CCZ. The seafloor is rich with cobalt, manganese, nickel, copper and zinc—minerals that are critical for renewable energy technologies. Already, 31 exploration contracts have been awarded to several mining companies. Excavation in the CCZ has not yet begun, and scientists, activists and governments have urged caution until researchers are able to evaluate and better understand the impact that mining would have on this unique marine ecosystem

Power Walking Innovation

A basic law of physics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed. Kinetic energy pushes us forward each time we take a step. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American takes 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day, with many aiming for 10,000 or more. That’s a great deal of energy that gets transferred to the ground unused.

As a design and technology student in London, Laurence KemballCook devised a plan to collect the secondhand energy of footsteps and store it in a usable format. In 2009, a kinetic floor tile that could generate clean electricity was born. Today, Kemball-Cook is CEO of Pavegen, one of many companies looking for ways to advance sustainable energy. Pavegen has installed more than 200 projects in 37 countries.

Pavegen’s sidewalks are made of tile-like triangular platforms. When someone steps on a tile, a flywheel is activated to spin extremely fast, generating power that is sent to and stored in a battery. Although these smart sidewalks do not have the capacity to power entire cities, they can provide energy to office spaces, shopping malls, neighborhoods with streetlamps, sports games and music festivals. While the company works to lower costs and extend their application, Pavegen has been using its energyproducing sidewalks as an educational tool for sustainability awareness.

Artem Pachkovskyi/ShutterStock.com

Acupuncture Facelifts Promote Prevention

by Linda Sechrist

In the early 1990s while studying acupuncture to earn her degree at the Acupuncture Center of Naples, Doctor of Oriental Medicine Terri Evans chose to focus her attention on treating the side effects of chemotherapy. A challenging direction for her career, it wasn’t exactly what she had planned, but otherwise Evans would never have turned her focus to prevention. “Acupuncture schooling that lasts for four years, along with continuing education courses and special workshops, is all about balancing the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, all disease starts with an imbalance somewhere in the body. While that wasn’t recognized when I first started school, it is today. We know that an imbalance, the root of all disease, can be created by eating processed foods, lack of exercise and poor lifestyle choices,” says Evans.

To get the news out about the power of prevention, she began to speak publicly throughout the U.S. While people attended her talks and although articles appeared locally in Gulf Shore Life, people didn’t understand the concept of prevention as a system of optimal body functions to avoid chronic diseases. “It felt as though I had backed myself into the corner of not wanting to deal with disease. I wanted to help keep people healthy,” advises Evans.

Looking at a client’s face, taking their pulses and examining their tongue provides all the clues she needs. In practice for 32 years, Evans is so skilled that she can detect someone’s health issues before they tell her about them.

When a man came to her office in 1997 to be treated for Bell’s palsy, a neurological disorder that causes paralysis or weakness on one side of the face, she gave him a series of treatments. Months later, he returned, along with his wife. “He had a different request, ‘The side of my face that you worked on appears younger than the other side. Can you treat it so that it looks the same? My wife says she thinks the difference is like father and son.’ That was the beginning of my including a treatment that balances the whole body, allowing me to treat whatever health issue is showing up on their face. I remembered from my training that what we see in the face reflects what’s going on in the body,” she says.

The first part of the treatment is a Japanese style of meridian balancing, followed by a facial that includes exfoliation, cleansing and hydrating. “I follow it with needling the face, and then taking out the body needles. I was a licensed esthetician before I became an acupuncturist,” says Evans, who recommends a series of 10 treatments.

Evans must observe her clients at least once a month to see patterns on the face that hint at early problems. “The clients that have been coming to me since 1997 for this treatment are on few, if any, pharmaceuticals, and they’re not on massive quantities of supplements. They are very active people, playing tennis, doing yoga and riding their bikes,” she enthuses.

Looking at a client’s face, taking their pulses and examining their tongue provides all the clues she needs. In practice for 32 years, Evans is so skilled that she can detect someone’s health issues before they tell her about them. “No one’s health issues ‘just started’, which is what many clients tell me. They sometimes tease me and say that they can’t get away with anything because I see everything. I can tell if they’ve not been eating a good diet, not drinking enough water, not exercising and not sleeping. I can also tell if they’ve started something that’s good for them, like meditation. I’m also trained in functional medicine. The combination gives me lots of tools to catch imbalances early and correct them,” notes Evans.

“Americans still don’t get the concept of self-care. With all the stress in our lives today, self-care is a necessity. Stress in the body can be compared to a woven thread in a knitted fabric. Constantly pulled tight, it frays and unravels. On a monthly basis, it’s wise to choose something to unravel it with before it breaks, whether it’s massage, acupuncture, yoga or facials,” says Evans.

Tae Healthy Aging Center is located at 11983 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 100A, in Naples. For more information, call 239-430-6800 or visit TaeHealthyAging.com. See ad, page 35.

Training and Technology

Make the Difference at Purely You Spa

by Lisa Marlene

In 2009, Jennifer Alvarez Linguidi opened Purely You Spa, a certified organic functional health spa, in Naples. With the health and wellness of spa members, guests and staff always in mind, she has been on a constant search for products, technologies and modalities to offer spa members for the best result-oriented outcomes with anti-aging skincare, meditation, functional medicine coaching, body treatments and massage therapy. Purely You Spa is offering a new Biohacking Membership, unique to Southwest Florida. Individuals that want to reduce aging and inflammation can attend an upcoming launch event.

Updating spa services is a constant labor of love for Alvarez Linguidi, an innovative entrepreneur. Since opening, she has worked in and out of the spa for her clients’ benefit, training and learning at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, which earned her accreditation as an integrative nutrition health coach. She also has a full specialty license in skincare. Other training includes intense pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion theory and technique, dermaplaning, and Eminence Organic advanced results-driven organic skincare.

She also has proficiency in Egyptian reflexology, Indian head treatment, Hungarian facelift massage, bamboo fusion and manual facial lymph drainage. Plus, she was personally educated in several resurfacing technologies such as the HydraFacial machine, dermal infusion and microneedling.

She also is a licensed massage therapist and studied functional medicine at The American Academy of Functional Health and says, “It brings me great joy to be able to provide the highest level of service, value and quality to assist others in achieving their wellness, stress relief and beauty goals. The education and training have been truly transformational.” The second spa location in North Naples opened in 2021.

The list of modalities doesn’t include other technologies she been trained to operate in order to offer them in specific sessions. Items such as BEMER Mat therapy, an U.S. Food and Drug Administration Class II-cleared consumer medical device that improves blood flow and stimulates healthy muscles to improve and facilitate performance, are offered by the team.

Chromotherapy is the science of using colors to adjust bodily vibrations to frequencies that result in health and harmony. Each color possesses frequencies of a specific vibration, and each vibration is related to different physical symptoms. Chromotherapy works on energy points to help the body reestablish its natural balance.

The chakra balance mat is an infrared therapy treatment with amethyst crystals and other natural gemstones that promotes circulation and reduces anxiety and stress. Customized LED light therapy has three applications: it kills bacteria, helps oxygenate the skin and helps calm inflammation under the skin. It is also good for rosacea, anti-aging, firming the skin and stimulating collagen to help even skin tone, and pain relief.

Targeted vibration therapy has a variety of vibration release techniques that treat large muscle groups. Percussion, Theragun and Hypervolt are deep muscle stimulator tools used for muscle recovery or muscle facilitation. The infrared sauna promotes heart health, muscle recovery, better skin, improved immunity, hormone regulation and lean muscle preservation, pain relief and increased stress resilience.

“The Cold Plunge, the latest modality, benefits the immune system, increases blood flow, reduces chronic pain, boosts metabolism and promotes better sleep. It also boosts energy and elevates mood, lowers inflammation, reduces muscle soreness and boosts performance,” says Alvarez Linguidi, who experienced the Cold Plunge and knew she had to bring the biohacking experience to Southwest Florida. Check the website for the Biohacking launch event this month.

To make an appointment, text 239-233-9633 or call 239-3318266 to speak with the spa concierge. Purely You Spa locations in Naples are 3066 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 302 and 7935 Airport Rd., Ste 207, 210, 211, 213. For more information, visit PurelyYouSpa. com. See ad, page 2.

How Should I Wear My Hair?

Kandy Love Awakening One Aha! Moment at a Time

by Yvette Lynn

Ayoga teacher and massage therapist at Lotus Blossom Clinic, in Fort Myers, Kandy Love credits awakening to feeling her life from the inside-out, rather than thinking and analyzing it in her head, and being, rather than getting caught up in the doing, as well as noticing the power of now. She also gained an awareness of being able to choose how she wanted to feel.

Love’s work history prior to choosing a yogic lifestyle began after college, when she earned a degree in English at St. Lawrence University, in upstate New York. Her first a job as a management trainee at AT&T with an apartment in Manhattan, then teaching high school in Fort Myers, was followed by working as a Miami newspaper editor. In-between were sporadic yoga classes as a student and teacher. Then, a weeklong yoga retreat on Sanibel Island changed everything.

“The feeling was amazing,” she says. “The last day of the yoga retreat on Sanibel, I was doing my own yoga on the beach, breathing, learning to be in my body and be present. My first ‘Aha!’ I couldn’t name the feeling, but I knew I wanted to feel like that all the time. There was something about yoga movements and the yoga approach to life that grabbed my attention and slowed me down.

“Within a short time, I quit my job in Miami. New York and Miami were alike. Maledominated, 48-hour days and eight-day weeks. I wasn’t married and had no children. I loved my job. I was working hard, yet crashing and burning and repeating the cycle again for as long as that lasted.

“I decided to get my teaching certificate for yoga and go to massage school for a massage license to learn about the body. A new career was evolving. I also moved back to Ft. Myers to live with my mom. I taught yoga at five different locations and did in-home massage daily. I’d leave the house in the morning with my massage table and yoga props in the back seat of my station wagon and my food and yoga clothes in the front seat.

“It was a great life. My mom became a yogi and started teaching her own class. We converted to vegetarians. Within 18 months, I opened Healthy & Harmony Center. Another ‘Aha!’ When I’m connected and aligned with my higher consciousness and purpose, things move quickly. After 25 years, I sold Health & Harmony. My ‘Aha!’ that time was that I didn’t belong there anymore. I was in my 60s and in a different stage of my life.

“So many ‘Aha!’ moments. They come daily now. Life is about balance and living in your body as a vehicle. You get an inside feeling about who you are, what you are and where you are to be. And the yoga practice, whether it’s the breathing, the movement, the whole philosophy of life, nurtures that. The innate, energetic intelligence we call prana transforms your life. Now I wake up awake. How do I interact? What is next? But not what am I going to do. The ‘doing’ has been replaced with ‘being’.”

Lotus Blossom Clinic is located at 6710 Winkler Rd. Ste. 2, in Ft. Myers. Call 239-2771399. Visit Facebook.com/Kandy.t.Love.

Castor Oil Packs for Abdominal Bloating at Spark Health

by Lisa Marlene

Spark Health Technologies, in North Naples, is now offering one-hour organic castor oil pack sessions for abdominal bloating issues. Clients will also be breathing powerful antiinflammatory hydrogen gas, as well as reclining on a Bio Electro Magnetic Energy Regulation (BEMER) Mat to promote microcirculation of oxygen.

They will take their castor oil kit home, including organic oil and a hot water bottle, for self-administration of 30 more sessions. In numerous PubMed studies, the government website for peer-reviewed studies, the BEMER Mat has been shown to increase blood flow by nearly 30 percent.

Castor oil, a multipurpose vegetable byproduct extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, has been used for human healing for thousands of years. The earliest uses applied it directly to body parts.

Castor oil packs can promote healing by relaxing the digestive system, reducing bloat, improving constipation, reducing gallbladder inflammation, lymphatic drainage, gut inflammation and detoxifying the liver.

Hydrogen gas is a cell-signaling molecule with potent antioxidant properties that selectively neutralize harmful free radicals. Inhaling hydrogen gas with a hydrogen therapy machine allows this powerful molecule to rapidly disperse throughout the body.

Inhaled hydrogen has numerous health benefits and has been shown to be generally safe in a large number of human and animal studies. It has been granted GRAS (generally regarded as safe) status by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In studies going back to the 1940s, no toxic effects of hydrogen consumption have ever been reported.

Cost is $190 for 90-minute appointment and take-home kit. Spark Health Technologies is located at 11983 Tamiami Tr. N., Ste. 150, in Naples. For appointments, call 802-7526342. See ad, page 29.

Childhood Food Allergies, Intolerances and Sensitivities

BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIPS FOR ALL AGES

by Veronica Hinke

It’s back-to-school season, and for students with food issues, meal planning is as important as lining up classroom supplies and extracurricular schedules. Paramount in their minds is to avoid ingredients that might cause unappealing reactions or compromise health, while not stressing about the risks or feeling cheated that they cannot eat the same things as their friends.

Diagnosis

Often, food allergies, sensitivities and intolerances are incorrectly used interchangeably when, in fact, the symptoms, treatments and safety recommendations differ. Consult a physician for a proper diagnosis and a nutritionist for dietary guidance.

FOOD ALLERGIES cause an almost immediate, potentially deadly immune response (anaphylaxis) requiring an epinephrine shot. Symptoms include a drop in blood pressure, narrowing of the airways, rashes, nausea and vomiting. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 20 percent of students with food allergies will have a reaction at school. Eight ingredients account for 90 percent of food allergies: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and soybeans.

FOOD INTOLERANCES result from an inability to digest certain foods due to

an enzyme deficiency or irritable bowel syndrome. The most common forms of intolerance are caused by lactose, histamine and gluten.

FOOD SENSITIVITIES provoke delayed symptoms (sometimes days after eating a problematic ingredient), including diarrhea, rashes, joint pain, digestive problems, fatigue and brain fog. Among children, common triggers are lactose, gluten, grains, legumes, soy, corn and yeast.

Emotional Concerns

According to Karen Raden, an Illinoisbased registered dietician and certified clinical nutritionist, the goal is what she calls “food freedom”: the empowerment of students to make informed choices that feel best for them and their bodies. “Even if a child’s options are limited, it’s important to allow them to make substitutions. The less restricted, the better. It’s not just about the science; there’s a lot of emotion that goes into it, too,” she says.

Dr. Dawn Huebner, a psychologist, author and parent coach in Sacramento, California, says, “There is danger associated with allergies, and anxiety results when you overestimate the danger. In children, this can morph into anxiety about eating with other people or touching things in the classroom. Many parents are intent on making uncomfortable feelings go away, so they end up minimizing feelings, telling their children to simply not worry.”

A better approach, Huebner says, is

to acknowledge the child’s reality and empathize with them. “Say to your child in a really direct way, ‘Yes, that’s hard to see your friends eating ice cream or cupcakes that you don’t get to have.’ Even though there are food substitutions, it doesn’t make up for the fact that a student doesn’t get to be a regular kid, eating what everyone else gets to eat.”

Ready-to-Eat Options

Huebner suggests that parents help their children develop skills to overcome temptation, rather than berating or punishing them for occasionally sneaking forbidden foods. At all times, delicious alternatives should be readily available.

Theresa Diulus, a Texas-based nutrition coach, believes in empowering kids by keeping ready-made foods in clearly marked bins that kids can easily access. She stocks the pantry with gluten-free oatmeal and coconut or cassava flour cake mixes, and stores frozen, gluten-free waffle or pancake batter in batches to save time when a safe and delicious treat is needed.

Food Substitutions

Replacing essential nutrients that might be missing once certain foods are eliminated is another key objective. “If dairy is the problem, for example, we worry about bone health and need to make sure the child is getting calcium from nondairy sources,” Raden explains. “I like to find out what their favorite foods are and modify them. Food issues are more prevalent these days. We’re really lucky

now that there are very good substitutes for eggs, dairy and gluten.”

Raden recently adapted a shepherd’s pie recipe by using gluten-free flour and almond milk. For people that cannot tolerate regular eggs, she recommends using a “flax egg” in baked goods, which combines one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water.

Family Meals Made Easy

When they were little, Caroline Somers’ two daughters developed extensive food intolerances and food allergies with inflammation, gastrointestinal bloating and digestive distress. Tasked with reimagining her family’s diet, the president of Suzanne Somers Companies created new versions of her favorite recipes, which will be featured in her upcoming cookbook, Served: From My Family Table to Yours.

“Many people deal with family members who have food preferences or intolerances to foods, and it can turn the person preparing foods into a short-order cook—no gluten for this one; vegan for that one; this one will eat fish but no dairy. It can make your head spin,” says Somers. Her Vietnamese Spring Rolls recipe addresses this predicament by serving the ingredients family-style and inviting each person at the table to assemble their own spring roll according to their food preferences and restrictions.

Veronica Hinke is a food historian and author of The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining and Style.

To accommodate a family with differing dietary needs due to food allergies, sensitivities or intolerances, this dish is served family-style, allowing diners to assemble their own spring rolls, choosing from the ingredients that fit their food restrictions.

YIELD: 24 SPRING ROLLS (6 ENTREE SERVINGS, 10 APPETIZER SERVINGS)

1 8-oz package of 8¾-inch rice spring roll wrappers (24 wrappers)

1 bunch Thai basil (or Italian basil), leaves only

1 bunch fresh mint, leaves only

1 bunch fresh cilantro, leaves only

3 cups coconut jade pearl rice (recipe below)

2 mangoes or papayas, pitted, peeled and sliced into long, thin strips

4 Persian cucumbers, julienned into long, thin strips

6 carrots, julienned into long, thin strips

¼ cup crispy ginger (recipe below)

1 head romaine lettuce, thinly sliced

1 head red leaf lettuce, thinly sliced

2 cups sesame ginger vinaigrette (recipe below)

1 cup peanut sauce (recipe below)

Sriracha to taste

COCONUT JADE PEARL RICE

1 15-oz bag (2¼ cups) Lotus Foods Jade Pearl Rice (or jasmine rice)

1 14-oz can unsweetened coconut milk

1¼ cups water

Pinch of sea salt

Do not rinse the rice. Combine rice, coconut milk, water and salt in a pot and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve. Can also be prepared in a rice cooker with the same ratios.

CRISPY GINGER

1 palm-sized piece of fresh ginger

½ cup toasted sesame oil

Peel the ginger and thinly dice it. Heat the oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced ginger and fry until golden brown—approximately 6 to 8 minutes—stirring frequently to brown evenly. Transfer the crispy ginger to a small serving bowl with a tiny spoon.

SESAME GINGER VINAIGRETTE

1 cup toasted sesame oil

¾ cup rice wine vinegar

¼ cup tamari (or soy sauce)

2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

1 Tbsp dried hot mustard

Combine all the ingredients in a jar with fitted lid. Cover and shake until well combined. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

PEANUT SAUCE

½ cup creamy peanut butter

1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic, pressed

2 Tbsp palm sugar

2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce

1 lime, juiced

1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 Tbsp tamari (or soy sauce)

1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil

2 to 3 Tbsp warm water

Heat the peanut butter in a medium bowl in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. Add the ginger, garlic, sugar, chili sauce, lime juice, vinegar, tamari and sesame oil, and whisk to combine. Add the warm water to thin the sauce to desired consistency. Store in a covered jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

To assemble a spring roll, dip one rice wrapper completely in a shallow bowl of warm water for about 5 seconds. Remove and spread flat on a plate or chopping board. Place basil leaves down the center. Continue to top the single strip with mint, cilantro, a thin layer of rice, mango, cucumber, carrot, a few pieces of crispy ginger and lettuce. Do not overstuff.

Fold up the bottom first, then fold over one side of the wrapper, tucking and rolling the filling into a compact cylinder, leaving the top end open. Serve the rolls with bowls of sesame ginger vinaigrette, peanut sauce and sriracha. Repeat to make desired number of rolls, using any combination of ingredients.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Caroline Somers.

photo by Caroline Somers

TURKEY BURGER BENTO BOX

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

BURGERS

1 lb ground turkey

¼ tsp onion powder

¼ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

1 Tbsp avocado oil

SWEET POTATO “BUNS”

1 large sweet potato, peeled and sliced into ⅓-inch slices

2 to 3 Tbsp avocado oil

In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey and spices until mixed well, but don’t over-mix. Wet hands and divide mixture into 8 equal portions, then form into patties. Pat down really flat, as they will plump up when they cook.

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy cooking pan over medium heat, then add avocado oil and swirl pan to cover the bottom. Add the meat patties and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165º F, approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side.

For the sweet potato buns, heat a cast iron skillet or a heavy cooking pan over medium heat, then add avocado oil and swirl the pan to cover the bottom. Add the sweet potato slices and cook until golden and tender but not mushy, about 3 to 5 minutes on each side.

To assemble the bento box, place two burgers in the largest compartment and add fresh veggies and fruits to the smaller compartments.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Theresa Diulus.

ASIAN GLAZED CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI

This recipe uses gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for the glaze and rice flour instead of gluten-containing white flour to lightly coat the chicken, helping to keep the meat juicy and tender.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

1 to 2 chicken breasts (depending on size), cut into 1-inch pieces

¼ cup rice flour

½ tsp salt

2 grinds of fresh pepper

3 Tbsp vegetable oil

1-inch section of ginger root, peeled and chopped

1 scallion, sliced

1 broccoli crown, chopped

ASIAN GLAZE

1 Tbsp gluten-free tamari

1 tsp rice wine vinegar

½ tsp toasted sesame oil

2 tsp honey

In a bowl, combine the rice flour with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken in the mixture and set aside. In a large, nonstick pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil on medium high heat and add the ginger and white part of the scallions, quickly stir frying for 1 minute. Add the broccoli and continue cooking until slightly tender. Remove from the pan to a platter.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the pan. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally until lightly browned on all sides. Meanwhile, stir together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Once the chicken is cooked, add the glaze to the pan and cook for 1 minute to thicken it. Add the broccoli and remaining green parts of the scallions and combine to heat through. Serve over rice or noodles.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Chicago-based pastry chef and cookbook author Gale Gand.

photo by Theresa Diulus MPH

LIFELONG LEARNING BENEFITS OF BEING THE FOREVER STUDENT

by Linda Sechrist

It’s never too late to take an evening drawing class at the local high school, learn a language with the help of an app or get one-on-one tutoring from a piano instructor. Adults of any age can find personal and professional benefits when they engage in what is termed “lifelong learning”. It is a great way to spice up retirement, acquire

skills for a coveted promotion, master new technology, express creativity or simply keep the mind sharp. Lifelong learners are generally curious, self-motivated and passionate individuals. Their continuing educational pursuits can lead to mental and emotional benefits, including healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Brain Benefits

In a study published in the journal Psychological Science involving 200 seniors, neuroscientists at the Center for Vital Longevity at The University of Texas at Dallas found that sustained engagement in cognitively demanding, novel activities—such as learning digital photography or quilting—significantly enhanced memory function in older adults. The researchers were surprised to discover that the control group, which engaged in fun, social activities without learning a new skill, did not perform as well in memory tests.

In a report published in the journal Neurology, Dr. Keith Johnson from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that people engaged in higher levels of intellectual stimulation throughout their lives can delay the onset of memory problems and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, although it does not represent a cure for the illness.

The mind is a use-it-or-lose-it tool, says Dr. Lise Van Susteren, a general and forensic psychiatrist in Washington, D.C. “What better way to use our short-term and long-term memory than to engage in lifelong learning? The older we get, the less likely we are to exercise short-term memory. We program our phones with numbers we call regularly. We store passwords and usernames in our computers and never attempt to memorize credit card numbers,” she explains. “We’re not using our brains enough, leaving us open to being replaced by AI [artificial intelligence]. The brain is a muscle to be exercised regularly or like a car that you must keep tuned up.”

Susteren points to a five-year study of London taxi drivers, which found that the hippocampus, a part of the brain that is crucial for long-term memory and spatial navigation, was larger than average in the brains of these cabbies. What’s more, the neuroscientists at University College London were able to show through magnetic resonance imaging that this gray-matter growth occurred over a four-year period after the drivers had memorized an intricate network of 25,000 streets and thousands of routes to tourist attractions and city hotspots. According to Van Susteren, this study suggests that intensive learning can spur the brain to grow over time.

Making Every Day Count

Ingrid Bianca Byerly, director of the Humanitarian Challenges Focus Program and senior lecturing fellow in the Thompson Writing Program, at Duke University, describes lifelong learn-

ers as audacious, curious and fun-loving people that passionately seize the day. In a TEDxStGeorge talk entitled “The New Fountain of Youth: Lifelong Learning”, she recounts the invigorating experience of being on the faculty of three Semester at Sea voyages, where she taught undergraduate students and lifelong learners world music and public-speaking advocacy for global humanitarian causes.

“Entering college, you’re asking yourself, ‘What am I going to do for a job and a paycheck?’ and at retirement, you’re asking, ‘What is my purpose, and what am I going to do with the rest of my life for my personal fulfillment and enrichment?’” Byerly expresses admiration for lifelong learners that pursue life goals, learn to play musical instruments, take art classes, climb mountains or write memoirs, and surmises that the secret to staying young and keeping the mind alive is adult education.

Life-Altering Pursuits

For some lifelong learners, seeking new opportunities and embracing change are compelling motivators. Take Maia Toll, for example. In 2006, she followed a whim to study herbalism with a traditional healer in Ireland. For the elementary school teacher living in Beacon, New York, botanical herbs had only been a hobby up to that point.

“Apprenticing with Eleanor changed everything,” she says of her experience with her Irish-based mentor. “I had the space in my life and money from selling my house. Three months turned into nearly a year, and upon returning home, I continued studying for four more years.”

Toll left her teaching career to become a full-time herbalist and is now the co-owner of a shop called Herbiary, with locations in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Asheville, North Carolina, where she lives. She has taught herbalism at West Chester University in their School of Public Health, led a study program in the Amazon rainforest and written several books, including her latest, Letting Magic In. As she explains, “Lifelong learning can change your life at any age.”

A Greater Commitment to Learning

For 30 years, Jim Walker was a labor representative for the California School Employees Association. He recalls teaching a labor-law class as an adjunct instructor for Los Angeles Trade-Technical College and estimates that about 80 percent of his students were lifelong learners, which he defines as adults

A study of London taxi drivers suggests that intensive learning can spur the brain to grow over time.

between the ages of 30 and 45 that are interested in the subject matter for personal or professional reasons rather than satisfying a requirement for a college degree.

“It was obvious to me that these lifelong learners were more dedicated students than college students. They were like sponges and wanted to absorb everything. Occasionally during classes, it was the lifelong learners that were on their phones googling the subject and updating my facts,” says Walker, who admits that when he had more free time in retirement, he enrolled in meteorology and astrology courses to satisfy longstanding interests of his own.

The Joy of Achieving Milestones

In love with learning and the sense of accomplishment she feels whenever she masters a subject, Doreen DeStefano, of Root Causes Holistic Health & Medicine, in Fort Myers, Florida, has been earning degrees since 1987. She holds bachelor’s degrees in nursing and exercise physiology, master’s degrees in criminology and public business administration, and doctorates in natural health and nursing practice. “In medicine, there is always something new to learn,” she says. “I think that’s why I chose this field. It’s fun to learn the latest thing.”

Resources

There are numerous opportunities for learning, in person and online.

IN-PERSON CLASSES

n For people that work full time, many cities offer evening classes at high schools, colleges or civic centers on a wide range of subjects.

n Museums and art institutions commonly host demonstrations and in-depth instruction by local artists.

n A neighborhood music store can lead to connections with musicians that tutor burgeoning rock stars.

n For those harboring thespian aspirations, a hometown improv group or regional theater may be holding auditions or offering acting classes.

n Dance studios help people step up their ballroom dance skills.

n Contact a chef or visit a kitchen supply store for cooking lessons.

n A nearby botanical garden or gardening shop may offer how-to classes for growing native or pollinator plants.

n Pick up sewing tips at the fabric store.

n If a class is not offered, create a study group that meets at a cafe or park to learn together.

n To become proficient in a new language, check out apps like RosettaStone.com and Duolingo.com

n YouTube.com is an endless source for instructional videos of every variety.

n Visit Ted.com for informative and inspiring TED talks by global experts in their respective fields.

n For students that wish to learn while taking nature walks, a vast world of podcasts awaits.

n For transformational learning, try MindValley.com, UbiquityUniversity.org and Gaia.org.

n Coursera.org offers many streaming courses, documentaries and films.

n Auditing university classes at prestigious, world-class schools is just a click away. Visit these popular sites, many of which offer courses for free: Harvard University (pll.harvard.edu/catalog/free), Stanford University (Online.Stanford. edu/free-courses), EdX (EdX.org) and The Open University (Open.edu).

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

Maria Rodale

ON LETTING NATURE HEAL ITSELF

by Sophia Ellis Kreider

Bestselling author, activist and gardener Maria Rodale is a board member of Rodale Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through research, farmer training and education. She is the former CEO of Rodale Inc., the global health and wellness media company that published notable books and magazines, including Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth

Her own books include Organic Manifesto: How Organic Food Can Heal Our Planet, Feed the World, and Keep Us Safe, as well as Scratch: Home Cooking for Everyone Made Simple, Fun, and Totally Delicious. In her latest work, Love,

Nature, Magic: Shamanic Journeys into the Heart of My Garden, Rodale leads readers through her relationship with the plants, animals and insects that inhabit her garden and shares the life lessons these often misunderstood creatures taught her.

Why did you write this book?

It was a combination of sensing that “spirit” wouldn’t allow me not to and the recognition that I could write the book in my own way, with humor and irreverence. It’s been my experience that once we begin following the path that spirit provides for us, things become easy. As someone on the older side of life, I’ve also noticed that when I don’t

listen to that guidance, I tend to really mess things up, so even when I don’t understand the path, I have to follow it.

What is the most significant message nature is trying to share with us?

The overarching message, which has been reinforced since I wrote the book, is that nature wants to feel free to do whatever it needs to do to heal things. The more we try to control nature, the more frustrated it gets. The same is true for people; the freer we feel, the happier and more productive we are. All efforts to control, whether it’s controlling human behavior or landscapers trying to control the landscape, are not helpful in any way. If we want to solve the climate crisis or the environmental crisis, we need to allow nature to be free and do its job.

The other message I received from nature relates to humans’ tendency to search for plants, take them, hoard them, eat them and rub them on our skin. In reality, we don’t need to do these things to benefit from plants. We can simply be in harmony with them in order to absorb their healing energy. So again, it’s about freedom, releasing control and trusting our relationship with plants and nature.

What role does courage play in exploring what plants, insects and animals have to teach us?

Many of us are afraid of having new experiences or have anxiety about things we don’t understand. When this happens, we can choose to stay in the fear or en-

photo courtesy of Rodale Institute

courage ourselves through it. When we choose courage and curiosity, we often learn a new skill or power.

For example, when I was journeying and getting to know mosquitos and ticks, I felt afraid but chose to keep going. While I didn’t come to love the mosquitos and ticks, I developed compassion and respect for them.

To understand what nature is communicating to us, we need to get curious and unlearn what our parents and culture taught us about how our garden should look or how we should interact with it. We can ask ourselves, “What am I afraid of? Where did the fear come from?” and listen for the answer.

What role does personal trauma play in healing our planet?

Trauma is the root of everything—crime, abuse and all the things that make us unhappy and destructive, both towards each other and nature. That’s one of the reasons I was excited to share the parents’ creed in the milkweed chapter. The creed teaches that in order to stop trauma, we must raise kids well from the start. The challenge is that our culture doesn’t provide the information we need to minimize our mistakes or prevent trauma in the first place. Openness to learning about ourselves is key to healing trauma. When we heal our traumas, we are less likely to project trauma onto other living beings, including nature.

If people respond to life with curiosity instead of fear, and love instead of control, we can evolve amazingly fast and have fun doing it. This is the wonderful work we can accomplish together with nature—envisioning and building new systems and ways of being on this beautiful Earth.

Sophia Ellis Kreider is a freelance writer in Lancaster, PA, and a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at SophiaEllisKreider@gmail.com.

Group Fitness Glory

TIPS TO MAXIMIZE RESULTS AND ENJOYMENT

by Cristina Parker

People are by nature social creatures, and, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, human connection can lead to a longer life, better health and improved well-being. It should come as no surprise that for exercising, a group setting can also be a plus.

Led by a knowledgeable teacher and populated by like-minded participants, fitness classes offer a great way to jumpstart an exercise regimen and achieve fitness goals. Although some people may feel vulnerable when trying a new physical activity in front of strangers,

there are ways to overcome the anxiety. Exercising together can transform a workout into a fun, motivating, socially fulfilling activity.

Find the Right Classes

In most cities, an array of group fitness classes is available at gyms, YMCAs, community centers, medical facilities and other public and private venues. The diverse choices include Zumba, a Latin-inspired dance; barre, which incorporates ballet movements; spin cycling, or high-intensity stationary biking; many forms of yoga; the

mind-body practice known as Pilates; and boot camp, a military-inspired workout that incorporates strength building with strenuous aerobics. Free group activities are often available, too, such as walking, running, dancing or hiking meetups.

Classes may be posted online and onsite. Scheduling apps can assist the search for nearby options, including ClassPass ( ClassPass.com ) and MindBody ( MindBodyOnline.com ) for classes and OneRoof ( OneRoofApp. com ) and Nextdoor ( Nextdoor.com ) for neighborhood meetups.

“Fitness classes are not one-size-fitsall, and finding an environment and a movement style that matches you can help you be more successful in your fitness journey,” says Jillian Aeder, a Denver-based doctor of physical therapy at Hinge Health and a certified athletic trainer. She recommends trying different studios and types of classes when starting out.

Be Consistent and Accountable

“Group classes are usually conducted on a weekly basis at the same time to help people find consistency in their workouts,” says Britney Kimball, a professional dancer and certified Pilates instructor for BK Movement Health, in New York City. “Attending the same class every week not only helps you see the benefits of fitness faster, but also creates a comfortability with the instructor, the class and the people around you.”

Amber Grundy, a doctor of physical therapy and fitness instructor in Philadel-

phia, says, “Group fitness programs can be helpful in keeping you accountable for exercising on a regular basis. It makes you feel a part of a community, bringing together multiple fitness levels that can help challenge and motivate.”

Get Going

Fitness classes offer the thrill of competition, Aeder says, noting, “I have seen firsthand how group settings help improve participation, performance and ultimately results.” Some classes encourage a healthy dose of competition by displaying scores, ranking attendees in speed or agility, or implementing tiers within an all-level class. In a 2011 study of older adults published in The International Journal of Sport and Society, researchers found that seniors like a challenge, enjoy “winning things” and are motivated to work harder when engaging in competition.

Overcome Fear

To alleviate anxiety about joining a new program, Kimball recommends that people show up to class early, introduce themselves and ask questions. “An instructor will love it when you’re involved, wanting to learn and openly communicating with them,” she explains.

Grundy suggests managing expectations. “Read the description of the class before attending to learn what to expect, and if you’re worried about past injuries or limitations, review that with the instruc tor. Often, group classes will offer options based on difficulty level. It’s OK for a beginner to take an expert class so long as they take breaks throughout the workout.”

Save Money

Group classes have one very important advantage over individual training: cost. According to the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, a one-on-one personal training session may begin at $80, whereas a group class with 10 students could be $20 each. Lower costs make sustained attendance more achievable

Enjoy the Company

The group setting is a nice way to both meet new people and spend extra time with friends or family,” says Grundy. “The camaraderie makes participants more accountable; many leave class saying, ‘See you next time!’ or asking, ‘Where have you been?’”

Reap the Results

Kimball has noticed her students walk out feeling better, looking more confident

and going into the rest of their day in a better mood. She says, “Oftentimes we are our own biggest critic, but it is important to push past that to show up, move the body and have fun.”

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

Everybody Needs a Cindy

by Savannah Noir

AGal Friday, like the fictional personal assistants Andy Sachs, who looked after the details of Miranda Priestly’s schedule in The Devil Wears Prada, and Mrs. Landingham, who kept President Bartlett on time in The West Wing, are hard to find. Cindy Bisanti, who owns Everybody Needs a Cindy, lives here in Southwest Florida.

Bisanti manages households, home offices and provides personal concierge services for individuals living in Collier and Lee counties. She has always been in the business of helping people; assisting the vice president of General Electric, working in the dental field handling complex insurance claims and helping veterans with the red tape of obtaining benefits from the Veteran’s Administration.

With the complexity of life today, Bisanti frequently relies on her diligence and perseverance. “I’m used to waiting on people and untangling difficult issues such as insurance billing and even fraud issues. I’ve helped quite a few older people resolve cases of fraud,” she says. “I’m a people person and like to get to know the individual I’m working for. Everyone’s needs are different.”

Bisanti admits that it’s challenging to explain what she does because it ranges in so many directions. Above all, she is a problem solver, and shares, “Some things, such as staying on hold for 45 minutes while trying to resolve an issue with a home service or a credit card charge don’t require a skill set as much as they require time and patience, which some of my clients don’t have.”

Providing companionship for older adults is something else that Bisanti enjoys. “Adult children don’t always have time to spend with their elderly parents. Meanwhile, I so enjoy listening to their stories, taking them for walks, out to shop or to their medical appointments. Knowing your loved one is with someone you can trust decreases stress levels for all involved.”

A self-starter, avid organizer and a multitasker who even prepares meals, does research and runs errands, Bisanti sums up her services: “If anyone needs their life, home, files or closets organized, I’m their person.”

For more information, call 239-202-3152 or email EverybodyNeedsaCindy@gmail.com. See ad, page 47.

Marcy Hess

Eco-Friendly U SUSTAINABILITY ON THE RISE AT U.S. COLLEGES

by Carrie Jackson

The halls of higher education are adopting more sustainable practices as students and university stakeholders increasingly understand that their lifestyle choices and daily operations impact the planet. Motivated by the climate crisis and global-warming-related disasters, many students are looking for ways to lower their individual carbon footprint. Schools, too, are implementing Earth-friendly initiatives throughout their campuses while also prioritizing climate-conscious subjects in their curriculums.

According to Julian Dautremont, director of programs at the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), “Sustainability education helps attract, retain and motivate top students and prepares them for responsible citizenship. It catalyzes increased giving and new funding sources, strengthens community relations and facilitates new partnerships. Moreover, sustainability research and education demonstrate relevance in addressing grand challenges and help unify the campus around a shared sense of purpose.”

AASHE advocates comprehensive modifications that make going green easy and second nature. “We recommend that institutions create systems in which sustainability is the default. Long-term measures such as installing low-flow fixtures in bathrooms, using induction stovetops in dorms and having light sensors that turn off automatically in offices make saving energy automatic,” Dautremont explains. “Where individual behavior is a factor, make the more sustainable choices convenient by, for example,

providing water bottle filling stations on every floor, installing covered bike parking and storage, or giving each room its own recycling receptacle and providing education and training to make sustainability behaviors the cultural norm.”

Sophomore Anna Ries-Roncalli, an environmental science major at Loyola University, in Chicago, says, “College is often the first time you’re learning how to be an adult and interacting with the world, and it’s important to make sure that your role is sustainable. Colleges have an inherent, built-in sense of community, and prioritizing sustainability comes more naturally when you see that it’s a collective responsibility that impacts others.”

Ries-Roncalli is aware of the impact her food choices have on the environment. “In our country, where we can buy anything we want from the grocery store, we are so disconnected from the food system. Most people don’t see a carton of eggs and think about every step that it took to get it on the shelves or where the farm it came from is located,” she says. To do her part, she brings reusable plates and utensils to the dining hall, takes leftovers home in a multi-use canister and shops locally or at farmers markets whenever possible. While Loyola composts most food waste in the dining halls, Ries-Roncalli volunteers with Food Recovery Network, a student organization that collects and distributes leftovers to local shelters and food pantries.

Michael Hughey, a senior in the environmental studies program at Loyola, takes full advantage of a partnership between the Chicago Transit Authority and Loyola that grants eligible students unlimited use of public trains and buses. “Students can also walk, take their own bike or use a bike share to get around. Not only are they cutting back on their carbon footprint, they’re engaging more with the city on a ground level,” Hughey explains. “We’ve seen the effects of climate change disproportionately affect low-income communities and commu-

nities of color. I personally want to mitigate those effects as much as possible and be kind to the planet and my neighbors.”

Cria Kay, program administrator at Northwestern University’s sustainNU, says, “I recommend finding something that brings you joy, identifying what changes you want to see in your life or community, then developing an action you can take that applies your passion to the environmental issue you identified. Even something as simple as taking a walk to pause and notice the wildlife, water, air and soil around you can be helpful for well-being and getting inspired to take on more sustainable behaviors.”

Amy Spark, the sustainability coordinator at Bow Valley College, in Calgary, Canada, believes that sustainability literacy eventually will be required across all disciplines. “Students in every sector are going to be impacted by climate change. Nurses in our LPN [licensed practical nursing] program are seeing a spike in hospital visits with health issues from increasingly poor air quality. It is important to train future graduates to recognize and deal with the impacts of climate change in their disciplines,” she explains.

Spark encourages students to use their voices. “Human stories move decision-makers, and schools are invested in their students’ overall experience. You don’t need to be an expert, but speak from your experience,” she suggests. “Tell your administrators and policymakers how air quality affects you, or let them know how having more bike lanes would help. If you see something, say something. Report leaky faucets, lights that won’t turn off and other inefficiencies to the maintenance department so proper repairs can be made.”

“Individual behavior change is important, but the single most powerful thing students can do is to advocate for broader change,” says Dautremont. “Students can be enormously influential in campus decision-making, and the impact of such changes generally is going to far outweigh the impact of individual behavior changes.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Acne Antidote

TOPICAL AND DIETARY ROADMAP FOR HEALTHY SKIN

by Sheila Julson

that causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and redness. It is prompted by the overproduction of sebum, an oil produced by the sebaceous glands to lubricate hair follicles. Symptoms can be aggravated by an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast, excess hormonal activity or stress.

Dietary Solutions

“The pathways that trigger acne are the same pathways that trigger inflammation. If you’re having acne on the skin, that generally means there are moderate to high levels of inflammation in the body, so that should be addressed,” says Saya Obayan, a board-certified integrative dermatologist at Skin Joy Dermatology, in Austin, Texas. She recommends keeping a food journal for six weeks to identify inflammatory foods that noticeably trigger an acne response and eliminating them from the diet. Many of the culprits are part of the Standard American Diet, including animal protein, wheat and sugar—foods that can increase sebum production, and thus generate acne.

Whether it’s a wedding day or job interview, nothing puts a damper on the moment like an outbreak of acne. It can be embarrassing and compromise selfconfidence, but natural treatments and lifestyle modifications can keep those breakouts at bay.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting up to 50 million Americans annually and roughly 85 percent of 12- to 24-year-olds. Dr. Julie Greenberg, a naturopathic doctor and founder of the Center for Integrative & Naturopathic Dermatology, in Los Angeles, notes that the prevalence of acne in this country leads people to wrongly conclude that it is a normal part of being human. “In fact, studies of indigenous cultures throughout the world do not find any acne in their populations. Acne is a disease of the Western lifestyle,” she asserts.In essence, acne is an inflammatory skin condition

Dr. Steven Daveluy, associate professor and program director for the Wayne State University School of Dermatology, in Dearborn, Michigan, notes that dairy spurs acne, as well. “Dairy contains an amino acid called leucine, which stimulates oil production and affects the skin cells to cause clogged pores. It also influences the insulin pathway, which can affect hormones,” he explains.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, hormonal acne develops when hormonal changes increase the amount of oil the skin produces. This scenario is particularly noticeable in teens going through puberty and in both perimenopausal and menopausal women.

Greenberg approaches acne like she would any other inflammatory disease—by focusing on the gut microbiome. She recommends consuming at least 35 grams of fiber per day, eating a diverse array of fruits and vegetables, limiting meat consumption to four-ounce servings and eliminating or reducing alcohol, sugar and wheat to support microbiome health.

Stress Relief

Obayan notes that stress aggravates any inflammatory disease, including acne. Meditation, exercise or regular walks can help calm

Jacob Lund/ShutterStock.com

the mind and lower stress. She also recommends herbs like ashwagandha to lower cortisol, a stress hormone that can trigger acne.

Topical Treatments

“The things we put on our skin can lead to clogged pores and trigger acne, including makeup and hair products. If you’re getting acne in places where your hair typically touches your face, it could be from a hair product transferring onto the skin,” Daveluy notes. He stresses that makeup should be washed off before bedtime. On the other hand, over-scrubbing or washing the face too often can dry out the skin, which also leads to clogged pores and acne.

“While acne should be addressed from the inside out, topical antibiotics can offer short-term relief and keep severe acne under control,” Obayan says. “Glycolic acid can help keep skin smooth and clear by exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, but it shouldn’t be used undiluted on the skin; it can be overly irritating.”

In addition, Obayan recommends topicals like retinol, a nontoxic vitamin A derivative that can help reduce acne, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, scarring, fine lines and wrinkles. Bakuchiol, an extract from the babchi plant, along with topical green tea polyphenols, licorice extract and neem oil, can all be helpful to reduce acne.

Resist the Urge to Pop Pimples

Mom was right when she warned to leave pimples alone. “People often think that it’s helpful to manipulate your acne, but it can lead to more acne flaring, discoloration and even permanent scarring,” Daveluy advises. “Don’t believe anything on social media that isn’t posted by a board-certified dermatologist. The rest of the skin info on social media is junk and could lead to damage to your skin.”

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

Stepparenting Success

CREATING A VIBRANT BLENDED FAMILY

by Julie Peterson

Blended families are complex and often challenging. A marriage between two people that already have children creates new relationships with individuals that were strangers not long ago. The newlyweds must nurture their own kids while forming new bonds with stepchildren, and the children may need to figure out how to accept a stepparent into their lives, share physical and emotional space with stepsiblings or spend part of their time in their other parent’s home.

Ursula Page/AdobeStock.com

It’s a lot to ask. Imagine this through the eyes of a young child or teenager. It might be confusing, frustrating or infuriating. Fortunately, there are methods to knit a blended family into a strong and enduring tapestry.

Beat the Odds

According to Julee Peterson, a Californiabased therapist at Helping Blended Families, 65 percent of families are blended. It is the new norm. And yet, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 23 percent of second marriages end in divorce after five years and 39 percent dissolve after 10 years. Peterson notes, “Many reputable scholars still project the overall divorce rate for all marriages to be between 40 and 50 percent.”

To avoid becoming part of these statistics, it is crucial to manage expectations before creating a blended family. “What roles do you see each other playing? How are you going to handle discipline, experience holidays, safeguard your relationship or deal with divorce drama?” asks Christina McGhee, MSW, author of Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids.

See the Child’s Point of View

McGhee, who prefers to be called “bonus mom” by her two stepchildren, cautions parents not to underestimate the amount of stress that blended families experience due to different parenting styles, uncooperative coparents and revolving schedules. “But it’s still possible to create an environment where everybody feels connected and accepted,” she asserts.

“Even very young children pick up on body language and stress,” says McGhee. “Kids can do remarkably well having one household that is grounded, balanced and supportive with parental figures that validate their feelings, shield them from conflict, create opportunities for conversation and remain consistent and predictable.”

Set Practical Boundaries

While it’s OK if a stepchild is not comfortable with a stepparent right away, “the

child should have an understanding of the importance of the stepparent in their life, and that the stepparent should be treated with respect,” says attorney Victoria Kelly, a partner at Sefton Kelly Family Law, in Naperville, Illinois.

Although a couple may be excited to embark upon a blended-family adventure, their children may feel pressured into instantly liking or accepting a stepparent. “Kids may feel a loyalty conflict or worry about betraying the other parent if they accept the stepparent,” says McGhee, suggesting that stepparents encourage and support one-on-one time with the other parent. “It’s critical for bonus parents to honor the history that your bonus children have,” she advises. “Part of their lives didn’t include you. Respect that.”

Collaborate With the Coparent

“You have zero control over the decisions that coparents make—what they do, what they say, the rules that they establish,” says McGhee. “But you always have a choice about how you respond and how you engage. Focus on what you can control.”

“It’s important to have an open line of communication with the other parent, but if the other parent is not comfortable speaking with the stepparent, that boundary should be respected," advises Kelly. “All families can benefit from monthly meetings.”

“Often, there are issues that kids are navigating behind the scenes that don’t

make it on our parent radar,” McGhee notes, suggesting that parents set up a transition time when children are moving between households, such as a gathering around the dinner table to talk about the things that took place while apart. “Kids need some emotional space to shift gears,” she says. “When they’re with the other parent, keep communication open, so that when the children come back through the door, they don’t get sensory overload.”

Create Memories Together

Will Smith, senior business development manager for Acrow Bridge, in Alabama, raised one biological son and one stepson. He says that each child is different, so every situation needs to be customized to meet their needs. Smith and his wife presented a clear and consistent front when setting long-term values and goals for the kids—expecting the boys to do well in school and go to college—and they leaned in hard to achieve those objectives.

Stepparents can gradually incorporate quality togetherness by celebrating holidays, new rituals or even ordinary activities. “My relationship with my stepson grew through a shared interest in sports,” Smith says. “As a family, we played a lot of board games and had some favorite movies. These things became traditions.”

Julie Peterson is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.

WATCHING FISH SWIM THE JOYS AND BENEFITS OF AQUARIUMS

by Carrie Jackson

There’s something meditative about observing the movement of colorful fish among swaying aquatic plants while hearing the soothing sounds of water. In our culture, where stress has run amok, the restorative ambiance created by a well-placed and properly designed aquarium may be a welcome remedy for the busyness of life.

A study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health reports that aquariums help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, lessen feelings of loneliness and serve as emotional support during mental health crises. Gazing at fish for just a few minutes every day can reduce stress, improve sleep and instill an overall sense of calm.

People have kept fish for more than 4,500 years, and since the late 1800s, the idea of marine life as pets has emerged as a popular pastime. Large public aquariums with multi-million-gallon exhibits thrill visitors around the globe, while smaller fish tanks adorn doctors’ offices, health spas, libraries and a myriad of public and professional spaces. With a little planning, the beauty and calming influence of these underwater displays can be incorporated into the home, offering a unique way to bring nature indoors, spark curiosity and teach kids valuable lessons.

Dr. Ran D. Anbar, a board-certified pediatric pulmonologist and pediatrician, has two aquariums in his waiting room in La Jolla, California. “Watching fish doesn’t require a lot of thought, and this allows the mind to settle down. It’s

generally calming because the viewer’s interest is captured by the fishes’ unique appearances and smooth, rhythmic and repetitive navigation through water. Aquariums have been associated with improvement of mood, better pain management and blood sugar control,” says Anbar, who also offers hypnosis and counseling services to his patients.

If a child shows interest, Anbar incorporates the aquarium into his counseling sessions. “I thank them for being kind to my fish, and this helps reduce tension. Kids love feeding the fish and watching them happily eat. We talk about how the fish might feel, which helps the kids describe their own thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, when children describe a fish’s response, they are able to verbalize thoughts they cannot say about

themselves,” he explains. “Children also like to photograph or draw the fish, and I ask them to imagine the fish’s name, origin and hobbies. This sparks creativity, and they often become interested in setting up their own aquariums after seeing them in my office.”

Maintaining an aquarium can teach kids empathy and trustworthiness. “Children learn to be responsive to their fish’s needs, including how to observe the animals closely for signs of distress. Children learn to be patient and how to follow a schedule. They can learn to calm their own emotions in dealing with their fish, because otherwise the pets might become agitated,” Anbar says, urging parents to supervise their kids closely until it is clear they are able to care for the animals responsibly.

Steven Waldron, the owner of Aquarium Zen, in Seattle, Washington, helps people create artistic installations inspired by the aquarist Takashi Amano, who combined Japanese gardening techniques with the wabi-sabi principle of finding beauty in imperfection. “Aquariums are living aquatic ecosystems, and it is deeply compelling to have a slice of that biome in your home,” Waldron says. “The very act of creating and maintaining that ecosystem taps into something instinctual and gives people structure, a sense of purpose and peace. With endless design possibilities, people are able to create a projection of their own aquatic paradise ”

To reap benefits, an aquarium need not be large or overly expensive. Waldron notes that a few green plants combined with colorful fish provide the right kinetic energy to be both soothing and invigorating. “Choose fish that complement the plants and are enjoyable to watch. Siamese fighting fish, tetras, dwarf cichlids and dwarf shrimp are excellent for home aquariums. Some of these simply provide beauty and some, such as the Amano shrimp and the Otocinclus catfish, act as a cleanup crew and eat damaging algae,” he says.

“Once it’s set up, routine maintenance, such as cleaning the tank and changing the water, should take less than an hour a week, and most people find caring for their aquarium to be a fulfilling and meditative task.”

While it may be tempting to put an aquarium in a bedroom, Waldron believes that can be too much energy for a space meant for slumber. “From a feng shui perspective, a dark corner of a

common living space is the ideal location for an aquarium. This allows it to become the central focal point and provide light, life and positive energy,” he says. “Once you start to see natural energy flowing through the plants and animals, it becomes intuitive, and you see the connection to nature everywhere.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Walking in Wonder

by Marlaina Donato

Before life snagged us in its insidious net of obligations, our child selves discovered awe around every bend. We poked our noses into fluffy, new dandelions and saw faces in passing clouds. “Why?” was a perpetual mantra we lived by, no doubt testing the patience of loved ones. Somewhere along the way, our eagerness to jump into the lap of the world and be held by magic gave way to a new way of being.

In 1942, Albert Einstein wrote to his old friend, German psychiatrist Otto Juliusburger, “People like you and I, though mortal of course like everyone else, do not grow old no matter how long we live. What I mean is we never cease to stand like curious children before the great Mystery into which we were born.” This quote reminds us to stop wading in the daily grind and dive into the deep end of everyday magic.

Discovering a new musical artist, learning about a country we never heard of and touching emerald moss during a Sunday hike wakes up the child in us, the self that is impervious to pessimism. Observing a flower at ground level with the bees or reacquainting ourselves with the changing wheel of constellations not only re-sparks our ability to respond to life but also reinforces our connection to the infinite.

Courting curiosity is the domain of cats, as well as the most contented humans. Rekindling our wonderment is even better when shared with kindred souls, and the ripple effect can travel further than we might expect. Here are some inspirations:

n Without a set plan, get in the car with a friend and see where the day takes you. Pack a picnic and stop for lunch somewhere off the beaten path.

n Regardless of artistic ability, begin a nature journal and record small bits of the seasons throughout the year.

n Check out a book or two from the children’s section at the library and be young again.

n Create a daily practice of daydreaming about something delightful that has nothing to do with the past or the future.

n Start a local meet-up with others that share a common passion: books, healthy baking, trains or thrifting.

n Revisit a childhood or teenage interest and don’t explain why.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at JaguarFlower.art.

calendar of events

The events described in this section were scheduled to take place at the time we went to press. Please check ahead to confirm their status.

drumming, Koshi chimes, singing, toning and more. $35. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter. com. See ad on page 13.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

TUESDAY, AUGUST 1

Full Moon Ceremony – 7pm at Mystical Moon, 8951 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Ste. 255, in Bonita Springs. 239-301-0655. See page 12 for details.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2

Health, Wealth, Wellness, Beauty and Job Fair – 2-6pm. For people seeking an exciting career in health, wealth, wellness and beauty, and businesses looking to promote their products and employment opportunities. $25. Purely You Spa, 3066 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 302, Naples. PurelyYouSpa.com. See ad on page 2.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6

Reiki Healing Circle – 5-6pm. Join our amazing facilitators for a reiki healing circle every 1st and 3rd Sun. Experience an atmosphere of healing while using reiki energy to remove blockages by balancing the many chakra energy channels. $10. Goddess I AM 600 Goodlette Rd N, Naples. 239228-6949. GoddessIAM.com. See ad on page 41.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11

Psychic Fair – 5-8pm. Mini-readings with experienced psychics and healers. Services include mediumship, tarot, reiki, angel, past-life, chakra balancing, intuitive, body scanning, oracle and more. $30/20 mins. Goddess I AM 600 Goodlette Rd N, Naples. 239-228-6949. GoddessIAM.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 13

Light Code Activations – 9-10:30am. Join an hour-plus of channeled energy, activations and messages. These activations can be shortcuts to ease and grace, healing and prosperity. $33. Goddess I AM 600 Goodlette Rd N, Naples. 239228-6949. GoddessIAM.com.

Group Healing Event – 1-2pm. Ken Lloyd guides the audience through a series of visualizations while he anchors in the healing frequencies and then delivers them to the group. Also activating and opening up the DNA to allow the energy channels for healing. $75. Goddess I AM 600 Goodlette Rd N, Naples. 239-228-6949. GoddessIAM.com.

Sound Bath with Harmonic Alignment – 4:456pm. With Natalie Batty. Relax and recharge yourself through the healing vibrations of seven crystal singing bowls, Native American flute,

Psychic Fair – 11am-4pm. Mini-readings with experienced psychics and healers. Services include mediumship, tarot, reiki, angel, past-life, chakra balancing, intuitive, body scanning, oracle and more. $30/20 min. Goddess I AM 600 Goodlette Rd N, Naples. 239-228-6949. GoddessIAM.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

KundaFlow Gong Bath – noon-2pm. With DamaDe’. Gentle physical exercises, specific breath patterns, vocal toning, mantras, crystal bowls plus other instruments are toned to guide each person into their own personal state of bliss. $40. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29

Full Moon Ceremony – 7pm at Mystical Moon, 8951 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Ste. 255, in Bonita Springs. 239-301-0655. See page 12 for details.

plan ahead

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Spirit Fest: Holistic Metaphysical and Crystal Expo – Sept 16-17. 10am-6pm, Sat; 10am5:30pm, Sun. Enjoy 90 booths with vendors, practitioners, intuitive readers, artists and demonstrations. See website for more details and discounted admission. $12/day, free/age 12 & under. Charlotte Harbor Event Center, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda. SpiritFestUSA.com. See ad on page 9.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Peace Day Block Party – 10am-5pm. Includes food trucks, vendor and artist booths, live music, entertainment, and fun for the whole family. Theme: Community: Flow with It! Grow with It! Free. All of Cottage Street, surrounding CasaShanti, 2052 Cottage St, Fort Myers. fb. me/e/1jZiFdD1q. See ad on page 31 and news brief on page 8.

ongoing events

daily

Electromagnetic Frequency Assessments – Renee Walsh, owner of Alchemy of Love and Truth Healing Arts, in Naples, is providing electromagnetic frequency (EMF) home assessments with corresponding mitigation strategies at residences throughout our area. For more info, arrange for a free, 15-min consultation or to schedule: 239250-5115 or AlchemyOfLoveAndTruth.com. See ad on page 21.

Sunset/Bird Rookery Kayak To ur – 5:308:30pm. GAEA Guides on the Caloosahatchee River. See thousands of birds coming in to roost for the night and a great view of the sunset. $60 includes all equipment and Naturalist Guide. Other tours available also. Ft Myers. 239-694-5513. GAEAGuides.com.

sunday

Yin Yoga – 6:30-7:45pm. In-studio with Tara. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

monday

Healthy Happy Hour – 2-5pm. Also held Wed and Fri. Specially priced IV nutrient/rehydration therapy and vitamin injections from the IV nutrient experts. Root Causes Holistic Health & Medicine, 12734 Kenwood Ln, Ste 56, Ft Myers. 239-425-2900. rtcausesmd.com/iv-therapy.html. See ad on page 35.

Ashtanga Mysore Open Studio – 6-8:30am. MonFri, except moon days. New time for the summer. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

tuesday

Kayak Tour: Royal Palm Park Caloosahatchee River and Creeks – 10am-1pm. Also held Sat. Many birds nest on the island we will go near. We also go up some wild creeks in the Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve. $60. Ft Myers. RSVP: 239-6945513 or GAEAGuides.com.

Estuary Kayak Tour in Estero Bay – 10am-1pm. Also held Sat. Birds, dolphins, manatees and more. Paddle on the beautiful waters of the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve and the inside waters of Lovers’ Key State Park. GAEA Guides. $60. Bonita Beach. 239. 694-5513. GAEAGuides.com.

Meditative Yoga & Yoga Nidra – 3:30pm. In-studio with Peggy. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

wednesday

Sangha Midweek Meditation – 6-7pm. Relax and calm the mind and body, and practice meditation and deep listening together with us. Free. Zoom.

941-888-0116. Register: CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org.

A Search for God Edgar Cayce Study Group – 6-8pm. Weekly study group meeting based on the Edgar Cayce readings. New members welcome. Free. Unity of Fort Myers Sanctuary, 11120 Ranchette Rd, Ft Myers. 850-556-7604. JaneSelman@gmail.com. UnityOfFortMyers.org.

thursday

Kundalini Class – 11am. In-studio with Logan Jones. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

Crystal Bowls Sound Bath Meditation – 6:457:45pm. Participants lie down or sit while the frequencies reverberate through the body, bringing it back into a state of harmonic resonance, promoting deep relaxation and healing on all levels. $15. Lotus Blossom Clinic, 6710 Winkler Rd, Ste 2, Ft Myers. Register, Stephanie Niles: ananyaj1025@ gmail.com. LotusBlossomClinic.com.

friday

Sound Healing – 1-4pm. With Alyssa. nuYou Naples, 3415 Radio Rd, Ste 101, Naples. 239285-0094. nuYouNaples.com.

Live Music – 6-9pm. Rotating list of local artists entertain guests in the courtyard. Free. Food & Thought, 2132 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 239-2132222. FoodAndThought.com.

saturday

Love Flow – 10-11:15am. In-studio with Tara. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

Live Music – 6-9pm. Rotating list of local artists entertain guests in the courtyard. Free. Food & Thought, 2132 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. 239-2132222. FoodAndThought.com.

community resource guide

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email ChristineM@swflNaturalAwakenings.com for Collier County or LisaD@swflNaturalAwakenings.com for Lee County to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE

ACUPUNCTURE CENTER OF NAPLES

Dr. Xiu Qiong Cen, AP, OMD (China) 5683 Naples Blvd, Naples 34109 P: 239-513-9232 • F: 239-513-9293 DrCenAcupuncture@gmail.com

Licensed acupuncture physician with 28 years experience in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Experienced in pain management, women’s health, insomnia, migraines, digestion issues and much more. See ad, page 4.

LOTUS BLOSSOM CLINIC

Acupuncture – Oriental Medicine

David Martin, AP, DOM Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita 239-277-1399 • LotusBlossomClinic.com

Offering treatment for many health issues: pain, anxiety, stress, PTSD, fertility, heart, strokes, digestive and immune disorders. U.S. veterans: no cost with a V.A. referral.

PHYLLIS C. WEBER, AP

Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine

6249 Presidential Ct, Ste E, Ft Myers 33919 239-841-6611 • GulfCoastAcupuncture.com

Specializing in pain, chronic disorders, overall wellness, allergy treatments (NAET) and kinesiology. Acupuncture stimulates the body’s ability to heal all on its own! AP771.

AYURVEDA

CHRISTINA CARLIN, AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER

Ayurveda Clinic, Massage & Yoga Therapy 501 Goodlette-Frank Rd N, Ste A107, Naples 34102 • 239-450-6903

Practicing holistic medicine since 1987. Professional Member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association, specializing in highly personalized Ayurvedic treatments and lifestyle consultations, massage and individual yoga sessions for chronic and acute problems. Pancha Karma, Shirodhara and skin care. Ayurveda and Yoga Study program available. MA0023929, MM0008584, FB0716888. See ad, page 4.

BODYWORK

ART OF HOLISTIC MASSAGE Est. 1991 Alvina Quatrano, LMT FL MA 50896 For Info or Appt: 732-266-5276 AOHMassage.com

Zero Balancing, Process Acupressure, Reiki. Webinar classes all discounted; call for registration. Reflexology, SEVA Stress Release, Insomnia, MT’s get CEs. Free self-massage video at AOHMassage.com.

PAULA TERRY, LMT

239-821-3088, by appt. (Collier & Lee)

Trained at the Upledger Institute, Paula utilizes CranioSacral Therapy combined with Heart-Centered Therapy, Somato Emotional Release™, Lymphatic Drainage, love and nurturement to foster the healing your body needs. Doula services. MA35358.

CHIROPRACTOR

NETWORK CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Michele Pelletiere 3411 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 302, Bonita Springs • 239-949-1222

N.S.A. Practitioner level III. “Healing waves” release tension throughout the body, increasing wellness and quality of life, promoting new strategies for a healthy spine and nervous system.

COLON THERAPY

RB INSTITUTE, INC.

C. Robyn Berry, LMT, CRR, CCT, CLDT Moving office in progress TBA Ft Myers • 239-939-4646 • RobynBerry.com

Since 1993, Gravity enclosed Colonics using UV/oxygen/ozone sterilized medical grade water. Also more than 33 years Veteran Therapeutic Massage Therapist. Proficient in deep tissue, sports and Relaxing Pure Fiji massage. Reflexology, Crainosacral, Visceral Manipulation, Manual Lymph Drainage and Xp2 System, Heart Centered Therapy, Raindrop Therapy, ear candling, MPS, Halo Photonic BlueViolet Lazer Botanical System, Asyra/Qest4 MSA Biofeedback Meridian Stress Analysis, ozone steam cabinet and applied ozone therapies, infrared sauna, ionic foot detox by AMD, BEMER, Power Plate, hyperbaric chamber. MM7376. MA18351.

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

UPTOWN CHEMIST

Pharmacy, Compounding, Wellness

Norman Ruiz-Castaneda, PharmD, Owner/Pharmacist

2700 Immokalee Rd, Ste 24, Naples 239-431-4217 • UptownChemist.com

Norman is a licensed pharmacist with 15+ years of experience, specializing in compounding. He offers a personable approach in consultation, practicing with integrative medicine and fostering a relationship with the prescribing doctor; creating a “hometown” pharmacy for all of our patients.

DENTAL HEALTH

GO NATURAL DENTISTRY

Yolanda Cintron, DMD 2021 E Commercial Blvd, Ste 208 Ft Lauderdale FL 33308 • 855-381-6001 954-945-7355 (new patients)

GoNaturalDentistry.com

All phases of dentistry for optimum health, holistic, bio-compatible dentistry. Sedation dentistry. Removing of toxic metals, replacing them with bio-compatible materials. Laser dentistry for painless surgeries and extractions. Zirconia/ceramic implants. Natural bone augmentation/ plasma rich growth factor. Oral DNA testing. Add gums to receding gums.

NAPLES FAMILY DENTIST

Paul D. Mabe, DDS 877 111th Ave N, #3, Naples, 34108 239-566-7737 • GotMySmileBack.com

Biological dentistry for totalbody wellness. Metal and toxinfree. Biocompatible Zircon Implants and metal-free crowns. BPA-free ceramic fillings. PRF: Platelet Rich Fibrin. Ozone Therapy. Sleep Apnea. See ad on back cover.

ROGER J. PINT, MPH, DMD

9200 Bonita Beach Rd, Ste 111 Bonita Springs, 34135 • 239-676-8730

BonitaDentalStudio.com

Dr. Pint can join your health journey and play a role in minimizing toxicity; this includes protection while removing dental materials plus consultation. All Xrays are digital and minimal. See ad, page 4.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

NAPLES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Dr. Lindsey Berkson, MA, DC, CNS, DACBN, CAN 800 Goodlette Rd N, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400 • NaplesCFM.com

Dr. Lindsey Berkson is a hormone scholar and functional medicine specialist focusing on hormones, anti-aging and medical nutrition at Naples Center for Functional Medicine. See ad, page 47.

NAPLES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Eduardo Maristany, MD

800 Goodlette Rd N, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400 • NaplesCFM.com

Eduardo Maristany, M.D. is a board-certified internal medicine physician trained in functional/integrative medicine, genomic interpretation, and anti-aging. Dr. Maristany incorporates genomic intelligence and cutting-edge tools to provide his patients with comprehensive genetic health risks and benefits, and a personalized health plan for optimal wellness. See ad, page 47.

COMING IN SEPTEMBER

NAPLES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Carol L. Roberts, MD

800 Goodlette Rd N, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400 • NaplesCFM.com

Carol L. Roberts, M.D. has practiced functional/integrative/holistic medicine for 25 years. She provides patients with testing to uncover causes of chronic illness, guidance in resolving health issues and education to assist the patient in her own healing. She is Medical Director at the Naples Center for Functional Medicine, formerly the Hughes Center. See ad, page 47.

NAPLES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Lina Sakr, MD

800 Goodlette Rd N, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400

• NaplesCFM.com

Dr. Sakr is a board-certified internist specializing in metabolic and nutritional medicine, antiaging medicine and women’s health at Naples Center for Functional Medicine See ad, page 47.

ZORAYDA “JIJI” TORRES, MD, ABIHM, IFMCP

Internal Medicine, Functional Medicine Office: 239-444-5636

• UpstreamMD.com

Dr. Torres is a board-certified internist with over 17 years of experience and knows the limitations of conventional internal medicine. She is among the few Certified Practitioner M.D.s, trained by the Institute For Functional Medicine. See ad, page 9.

HEALTHY DINING

FOOD & THOUGHT ORGANIC FARM MARKET & CAFÉ

2132 Tamiami Trl N, Naples 239-213-2222

• FoodAndThought.com

HOLISTIC CENTER

ACCESS HOLISTIC HEALING & HYPNOSIS

Michele Durham, CHHP, AANWP, CH, MBA 840 111th Ave N, Ste 8, Naples, 34108 239-776-2211 • info@accessholistichealing.com

AccessHolisticHealing.com

Certified Holistic Health & Hypnosis Practitioner specializing to rebalance the mind/body/spirit. Offering sound and light therapy for pain, medical-grade dry salt and infrared sauna, crystals, books and more. See ad, page 37.

NATURAL & ORGANIC MARKET

ADA’S NATURAL MARKET

7070 College Pkwy, Ft Myers 33907

Mon-Sat: 9am-8pm, Sun: 9am-7pm

Ph: 239-939-9600 • Fax: 239-288-6210

AdasMarket.com

Natural and organic produce and grocery items. Vitamins and supplements. Organic juice and smoothie bar. New Green Leaf Café. Market-prepared foods. 1000s of glutenfree items. See ad, page 3.

NATURAL & ORGANIC PRODUCTS

ANATTA

447 Broadway, Ste 204 New York City, NY 10013 347-762-1268 • AnattaMarket.com

Anatta is a global online marketplace for natural, organic and raw products from farmers worldwide. The newly-formed company’s products include a variety of essential oils and waters, and its unique business model eliminates overhead costs by connecting customers directly with farmers.

NUTRITION

D-SIGNED NUTRITION, LLC

Wellness Travel

Open: Mon-Sat, 7am-9pm; and Sun, 8am-4pm. Florida’s only 100% organic market and café. Fresh produce delivered daily. Homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. See ad, page 8.

Dee Harris, RDN, LDN, CDE Bonita Bay Executive Center

3531 Bonita Bay Blvd, Ste 300, Bonita Springs • 239-676-5249

D-SignedNutrition.com

Nutrition is our lifeblood. Healing with food starts with a personalized plan to address inflammation, nutrient insufficiencies, toxic burden and imbalances in the body. See ad, page 37.

MARCY HESS, BS

501 Goodlette Rd N, Ste C208, Naples 239-231-6028

ThePerfect10Strength@gmail.com

Looking and feeling strong and healthy is the first reason for working with a nutrition coach. Let me help you get back on track for life without dieting!

See ad, page 32.

PERSONAL ASSISTANT

CINDY BISANTI

Serving All of SWFL

239-202-3151

Everybodyneedsacindy@gmail.com

Personal assistant and parttime house manager to SWFL. Organizer, companion care, errands, personal shopper, meal prep, research, special day and travel planner, et al!

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PEACEFUL SUMMIT COUNSELING

Jennifer Vear Hoy, MS

1048 Goodlette-Frank Rd N, #201, Naples, 34102 • 239-450-8090

Specializing in grief/loss, assertiveness training, anxiety, anger management, addictions, depression and relationship problems.

See ad, page 19.

TRAVELING MASSAGE THERAPY

TOUGH LOVE WELLNESS

Dianne Nolan, LMT, MLD-C

ToughLoveWellness.com • 239-399-0314

In-home bodywork, flexibility, fitness and wellness coaching, serving Marco Island to Cape Coral. Specializing in post-surgical lymphatic drainage, cupping therapy, athletic performance, headaches/ TMJ, neuropathy, scar tissue, fibromyalgia/“invisible disease” pain management and trauma-informed bereavement/grief massage.

YOGA

MEREDITH MUSICK, LMT, E-RYT 2000

239-269-8846

Master Yoga Teacher and massage therapist with 28 years experience, serving Naples since 1999. Sundamaged skin repair clinician, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage, sports and neuromuscular therapy, cranio facial and TMJ relief, heal injuries. Improve posture: alignment-based yoga and posture classes.