Natural Awakenings Naples/Fort Myers- November 2023

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

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Eco-Living The Joys of Minimalism

Plant-Based Holiday Dishes Natural Solutions for Lung Health The Kindness Frequency

COLLIER/LEE EDITION

NOVEMBER 2023

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Collier/Lee Counties

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November 2023

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

COLLIER / LEE EDITION Publisher Sharon Bruckman Editors Linda Sechrist Martin Miron Randy Kambic Theresa Archer Design & Production C. Michele Rose Lisa Avery Contributing Writers Linda Sechrist Sandra Yeyati Sales & Marketing Christine Miller Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Accounting Amie Delozier Website Kristy Mayer

CONTACT US Publisher: 239-207-2775 SharonB@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com Collier County Sales: 239-272-8155 ChristineM@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com Lee County Sales: 239-851-4729 LisaD@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

If you have questionable amalgam restorations that need to be replaced, removal should be done with caution.

Dr Pint uses IAOMT protocols which provide layers of protection to minimize oral exposure to Mercury He is experienced with full mouth revisions and complex restorations providing a personal approach and excellent result He uses the latest technology available to ensure a pleasant, positive office visit

Read more at www.bonitadentalstudio.com

Roger J. Pint, Jr. MPH DMD

Conservative Biological Approach Mercury-Safe Protocols

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CONTACT US

(In the Sunshine Professional Building)

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Arthritis • Chronic Pain • Injuries • Insomnia • Stress Menopause • Stroke Recovery • Shingles • Anxiety Migraines • Fibromyalgia • Well-being • Bell’s Palsy & More

Offering integrative massage mOdalities

by Jennifer Colucci / MA 74913 5683 Naples Boulevard • Naples, FL 34109

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

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main St, Ste 9B, Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000

Dr. Cen has more than 25 years experience in Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine.

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NATIONAL TEAM

9200 Bonita Beach Road Suite 111 Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Acupuncture Center of Naples

Dr.Xiu Qiong Cen A.P., OMD (China) Licensed Acupuncture Physician

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS Digital subscriptions are available through SWFLnaturalawakenings.com.

239-513-9232

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November 2023

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seLF care = seLF L♥ve

letter from publisher

Healing the World is an Inside Job, Too

The Universe is 98% energy! everything found in, above and under has its own dynamic energy!

Our entire body continually vibrates at a subtle level, moving energy and information through our connective tissues.

The L.i.F.e. sysTem

scans nearly 7,000 energy patterns. By identifying which energy vibrations are out of balance, the system can put them back into harmonic balance, allowing your body to return to a state of rest and healing.

Lisa DOyLe - miTcheLL • Certified Biofeedback Specialist by the natural Therapies Certification Board #5771

239.851.4729

With Thanksgiving approaching, plans to spend time with loved ones come into focus, along with the quality of our relationships. At the local, national and global level, many people are experiencing heightened challenges affecting all of us in subtle and not-so-subtle ways.

How do we take care of ourselves and each other in today’s world? For the last month or so, I have been tested. A close family member was diagnosed with a health challenge that required surgery, and I travelled to be with her. It has been very difficult on her, of course, but I have also been quite affected, as I endeavor to support someone I love very much.

Recognizing that I needed extra support for my health and well-being, I contacted my team of holistic health providers and resources which offered guidance, calm and comfort. I also consulted one of my favorite references, The Book of Ho’oponopono: The Hawaiian Practice of Forgiveness and Healing.

The Ho’oponopono process is a way to reconnect with the Divine, or as practitioners call it, the Zero State. The basis of this healing modality is the belief that we are 100 percent responsible for everything that shows up in our lives—from a challenging friendship to a refugee crisis we read about in the newspaper. If it appears in our consciousness, it is our job to “clean” our thoughts and delete the unconscious programs and beliefs that are manifesting the distressing reality. By repeating the phrases, “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you,” we clean ourselves and get closer to Zero, the state of magic, miracles and no limitations.

This means that terrorist activity, political maneuvering, economic busts— anything we experience and don’t like—is up to us to heal. They don’t exist, in a manner of speaking, except as projections from inside us. The problem isn’t with them, it’s with us, and to change them, we must change ourselves—clean ourselves—constantly. As we love ourselves in this way, we can improve our world.

It can be a path to worldwide healing.

To realize any desired change, there’s only one place to look: inside. This is no simple feat. Over the many years that I have used this powerful tool, I can testify how transforming it has been to many of my relationships and experiences. Reading The Book of Ho’oponopono as I flew to be with my loved one helped to recast me from a victim to a powerful creator that can help transform reality. I’ve simplified the process, of course. It takes a thorough study and steady practice to achieve results. Perhaps you’ll want to give it a try. Let’s envision the whole world practicing Ho’oponopono this holiday season.

I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you.

www.BluestarBioFeedback.com Follow us!

@bluestarbiofeedback.com

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Collier/Lee Counties

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

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.

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Contents 13 A PEBBLE OF KINDNESS IN THE STAGNANT POND

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14 GREEN FITNESS

Choosing an Earth-Friendly Gym

18 PLANT-FORWARD HOLIDAYS

Festive Foods Everyone Will Crave

24 THE JOYS OF MINIMALISM

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A Rich Life With Less Stuff

30 SAM STEDMAN on Helping Kids Make Conscientious Choices

34 LUNG MAINTENANCE 101 Natural Strategies to Breathe Easier

36 HOLIDAY WORKOUTS Tips for Staying Motivated

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS 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!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-206-2000. For franchising opportunities call 239-206-2000 or email Natural Awakenings@KnoWEwell.com.

38 THE MAGIC OF PARENTCHILD SYNCHRONY

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How Skin-to-Skin Contact Helps Development

40 RESPONSIBLE PET ADOPTION

Guarantee a Forever Home for a Furry Friend

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 28 awakenings 12 health briefs 30 wise words 14 green living 34 healing ways 17 reader spotlight 36 fit body 18 conscious 38 healthy kids eating 40 natural pet 26 business 43 calendar spotlight 45 resource guide November 2023

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news briefs

Anti-Aging Presentation at Unity of Naples

Caloosahatchee Mindfulness November Events

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r. Michael Greger, a founding member and fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and the New York Times bestselling author of the How Not to Die series, will make a presentation based on his new book, How Not to Age, immediately followed by a book signing at Unity of Naples at 6 p.m. on January 6, 2024, at Unity of Naples.

The internationally acclaimed physician, author, speaker and operator of the science-based nonprofit NutritionFacts.org will provide basic, highly accessible and evidence-based ways to preserve body functions that keep us feeling youthful, both physically and mentally, and achieving ultimate longevity.

He has presented at the Conference on World Affairs and the World Bank, testified before Congress and was an expert witness in Oprah Winfrey’s defense in the “meat defamation” trial.

aloosahatchee Mindfulness will conduct many inperson Lee County special and weekly free online Zoom events this month. Vicki Durso will lead a Mindful Art session from 7 to 9 p.m. on November 1 at the Behind the Buddha Studio, in Fort Myers ($30/members, $40/nonmembers); a free, halfhour Mindful Walking session with Valarie Olsen will begin at 9 a.m. on November 11 at Jaycee Park, in Cape Coral; and Maggie Stevens will facilitate a Practicing Mindfulness Together event from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on November 18 at Six Mile Cypress Slough, in Fort Myers ($20/members, $25/nonmembers.

Presented online, Anne Louise Kracmer will facilitate Caloosahatchee Rising Tide Sangha’s Midweek Mindfulness sessions at 5 p.m. each Wednesday and Stevens will lead Take a Time Out meditations at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Fridays.

General admission is $45, VIP $75. Location: 2000 Unity Way, Naples. To register, call 239-231-5538, email Michelle@MichelleJoyKramer.com or visit MichelleJoyKramer.com/tickets. See ad, page 3.

Locations: Nov. 1 – 9290-1 College Pkwy.; Nov. 11 – 4215 SE 20th Place; Nov. 18 – 7751 Penzance Blvd. To register, call 941888-0116, email CaloosahatcheeMindfulness16@gmail.com or visit CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org. See ad, page 22.

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Gore Nature Education Center Hosts Open House

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he Cypress Cove Landkeepers Gore Nature Education Center, in Naples, will celebrate Southwest Florida’s Precious Pollinators at the group’s Second Sunday Open House from noon to 4 p.m. on November 12. The event will be preceded by Connie Nagele leading volunteers through the Center on a butterfly count at 11 a.m., one of many she is conducting throughout the county on different dates.

Visitors will learn about nurturing and protecting the butterflies and bees essential to our local habitat via guided trail tours, viewing pollinator gardens and hearing from experts such as environmental educator Julie Motkowicz, of the Naples Native Plant Society, and the owners of Hing Family Apiary, a local business specializing in humane honeybee hive removal, pollination and honeybee products. Southwest Florida Nursery will offer a selection of native plants for those interested in learning how to plant their own pollinator gardens.

Admission is free, donations are appreciated. Location: 4261 40th Ave. SE. Register for butterfly count at Tinyurl.com/FallButterfly-Counts. For more information, visit cclandkeepers.com.

Concert Series Kicks Off in Naples

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(239)444-5636 27499 Riverview Center Blvd., Suite 255 Bonita Springs, FL 34134

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he Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples (UUCGN) will present the first in a series of four concerts this season featuring music codirectors, Shawn and Abbey Allison, who are also well-known in the FGCU music community, at 4 p.m. on November 14. There will be a reception following each performance with refresh(L to R) Shawn Allison, Abbey Allison and David Dust ments, including wine, for a (The Allison Dust Trio) small donation.

Attendees will be able to visit the campus and gardens to meet members of the Music Committee, congregation and the community. UUCGN has a rich history of providing great music in services and special events, and is known to be progressive and in a place for liberal religion.

Admission is $25 for each concert; $80 for the entire series in advance. Location: 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples. To register, call 805-400-8019, email Steve.Espinosa@comcast.net or visit uunaples.org. See ad, page 10.

News to share?

Send your submissions to: SharonB@SWFLnaturalawakenings.com November 2023

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news briefs

Special Offers from Boho Beauty in Bonita Springs

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ara Henley, owner of Boho Beauty by Sara Henley & Co., in Bonita Springs, is offering two special offers. First-time clients can have a color touchup, haircut and style for $110 and/or obtain a $10 discount for any nail service. She attests that she and the rest of her staff use the highest-quality products and keep up with new innovations by taking classes by manufacturers.

Henley provides hair styling, coloring, extensions and keratin treatments; eyelash work; microblading and waxing of eyebrows; manicures and pedicures; facials and more. She maintained a salon in Naples for 12 years before opening her Bonita location last spring.

Location: 4450 Bonita Beach Rd. SW, Unit 5. For appointments and more information, call 239-771-5423, email BohoBeautyBySaraHenley@gmail.com or visit BohoBeautyBySaraHenley.com. See ad, page 23.

Come home to liberal religion and practice.

• Children & Youth Religious Exploration • Adult Enrichment • Progressive Lecture Series • Meditation in the Garden

• Drum Circles • Concert Series • Weekend Meals for Kids • Eclectic Music and Choir Program

We are a welcoming congregation supporting diversity, equity, and social justice. As a Blue Zone organization and the first church in SWFL to implement solar power, we respect the interdependent web of life.

In person Sunday services at 10 AM and streaming on Facebook

6340 Napa Woods Way Naples, FL

www.uunaples.org 10

Collier/Lee Counties

Akashic Record Readings Reveal Past Lives

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icensed massage therapist Joanna Salerno, based in Fort Myers, who has also been a certified Akashic Record reader and consultant since 2012, offers one-hour and 90-minute Akashic readings for individuals and couples, as well as gallery readings for six to 16 people. She was given the name Healer of Hearts more Joanna Salerno than 30 years ago and says that reading the records of others allows her to truly step into the name.

An Akashic Record reading is said to provide answers to questions about our lifetimes here now along, with previous lifetimes. It is the reading of our soul’s path and helps in discerning life purpose.

Gallery events are ideal as girls’ night outs, retreats, spiritual gatherings and for grieving families missing a loved one. Salerno has conducted sessions at the Center of Eternal Light, in North Fort Myers; The Mystical Moon, in Fort Myers; Synergy Massage Therapy, in Fort Myers; Soulful Waves, in Sarasota, as well as private residences.

For appointments and more information, email Sacredlis1807@ gmail.com or visit JoannaSalerno.com. See ad, page 45.

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

Chiropractic Practice Relocates to Bonita Springs

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r. Nicole Bennett, of Bennett Chiropractic and Wellness Center, formerly located in Fort Myers Beach, has expanded and opened a new location at 3725 Bonita Beach Road, Suite 4, in Bonita Springs.

Their services include massage, acupuncture, laser therapy and functional mediDr. Nicole Bennett cine, with more to be added in coming months.

“Our mission at Bennett Chiropractic and Wellness Center remains the same as the last 20 years serving our community, and that is simply to provide quality healthcare solutions,” says Bennett. “We provide excellent chiropractic care to help our patients reach and exceed their health goals. We assess the patient as a whole. We want to address the main concern, but also lead you into a lifestyle of being pain-free. We do all of this by offering an evidence-based approach to chiropractic care utilizing chiropractic manipulation, soft-tissue techniques, therapeutic rehabilitation and a variety of chiropractic services to help achieve your health goals.”

For appointments and more information, call 239-763-1288 or visit BeachChiropractor.com. See ad, page 10.

Lotus Blossom Clinic Offers Space for Practitioners

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he Lotus Blossom Clinic, in Fort Myers, will conduct an open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 4 for outside holistic health practitioners to consider doing business at their location.

Attendees, including the general public, can see treatment rooms that are suitable for massages, reiki sessions, energy alignment work, private yoga sessions and more. The rooms can be leased on an annual, monthly, weekly, daily or hourly basis. The Movement Medicine Room can be rented for special events.

The well-established holistic clinic, owned by Dr. David Martin and his wife Debbie, improves the health and wellbeing of clients by providing acupuncture, Chinese medicine, massage, reiki, crystal bowls and tai chi. Her passion is to educate people how to use food as medicine.

Location: 6710 Winkler Rd., Ste. 2. For more information, including to arrange for a private tour if attendance on Nov. 4 is not possible, call 239-277-1399, email LotusBlossomClinic@ gmail.com or visit LotusBlossomClinic.com. See ad, page 45.

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health briefs

Muscle loss can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, leading to decreased mobility and strength. A study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies offers evidence that acupuncture may stimulate muscle regeneration and preserve muscle health, thus serving as a potentially noninvasive solution to muscle atrophy.

The study of patients with sarcopenia, a disorder involving accelerated muscle loss, was conducted at Nanjing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The control group was given nutritional treatments, and the study group was given the same nutritional treatments plus 24 sessions of electroacupuncture over the study’s 12-week period. While both groups experienced improvements, the acupuncture group experienced more significant improvements in skeletal muscle mass and grip strength, as well as the ability to complete a 20-foot walk more than one minute quicker.

Niphon Subsri/shutterstock.com

Causes of Long COVID

Andrey_Popov/shutterstock.com

Acupuncture to Boost Muscle Health

Since the spring of 2020, approximately 200 million Americans have been affected by COVID-19. For the 28 percent of patients that had or have long COVID, the initial infection was just the beginning of an extended and confusing journey of illness. A group of functional medicine doctors have identified five interconnected physiological drivers of long COVID: tissue damage in one or more organs; persistence of the COVID virus; chronic inflammation; an imbalanced gut microbiome; and a lack of energy production from mitochondria in the body’s cells.

Preexisting conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and a history of chronic fatigue or other post-viral syndromes, also contribute to the risk of this lingering condition.

While there are no definitive tests for long COVID, a deeper understanding of its drivers and risk factors can help healthcare professionals better manage and treat this complex syndrome.

Is Your Home Making You Sick?

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• Mold produces a by-product called MYCOTOXINS, a light-weight vapor molecule that easily travels through your HVAC, is easily inhaled and absorbed through your skin.

• It is well known that mold and MYCOTOXINS cause health issues.

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or visit www.ameswfl.com

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inspiration

A Pebble of Kindness in the Stagnant Pond

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In the Household

 Help someone with their chores: Put out the garbage, empty the dishwasher or set the dinner table.  Run a hot bath or heat up a bowl of soup for a loved one after a long day.

by Marlaina Donato

rom kindergarten classrooms to inspired blogs, kindness is a practice that is encouraged throughout society. Compassion—the bedrock of goodwill—is a spark that can easily be snuffed out on the wheel of survival.

Spiritual practice is usually associated with attending a house of worship, getting on a yoga mat or keeping a gratitude journal, but one of the most beautiful faces of mindfulness reveals itself when we embody kindness. With the expression

from pure intentions rather than superficial investment in “good karma” is a form of energy that begets more of the same.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of goodwill is the reminder that the world is not such a harsh place after all. This aha moment, at the very least, can change someone’s day. At the most, it might save a life. Living in the heart means maintaining a higher frequency, which is needed now more than ever.

Here are a few ideas to drop a pebble in the pond:

of compassion, we become joy in motion.

We do not need to break the bank or give our last drop of energy to consider others, only a willingness to nourish generosity of spirit. Whether we share that last piece of dark chocolate with our significant other or uphold a common courtesy, such as giving someone a well-deserved compliment, a heartfelt gesture can go a long way. One thoughtful word or deed can be a single pebble thrown into a stagnant pond. Kindness

In the Workplace

 Bring a coworker a cup of coffee or a hard-working boss a surprise dessert.  Take the early shift for someone else.

In the Community

 Offer a free class or service.  Pick up groceries for a neighboring senior.

Marlaina Donato is an author, multimedia expressionist and cultivator of women’s wild well-being. Connect at JaguarFlower.art.

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green living

pixie mfr/shutterstock.com

Green Fitness

CHOOSING AN EARTH-FRIENDLY GYM

pixie mfr/shutterstock.com

by Kiki Powers

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he green gym is redefining fitness with an emphasis on sustainability. Traditional fitness centers consume significant amounts of electricity, water and other resources, but more gyms are rising to the challenge of reducing their environmental impact and employing strategies to increase energy efficiency, decrease waste and provide a healthier workout environment.

Eco-Friendly Workouts

The concept of harnessing human power is not new, but its application in fitness centers is driving a paradigm shift. Equipment manufacturers have developed machines that convert kinetic energy generated by exercise into renewable electricity. UK-based Energym claims that 40 of their indoor cycling bikes can generate enough electricity to power 18,000 homes for a day.

SportsArt fitness offers a complete line of electricity-generating gym equipment, including treadmills, cross-trainers, elliptical machines and bikes. “We breathe sustainability,” affirms Ruben Mejia, executive vice president of SportsArt America.

“From the inception, we have prioritized reducing our environmental footprint. We’ve woven this commitment into our products and manufacturing processes. Converting 14

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a workout into usable power not only reduces the gym’s carbon footprint and operating costs, but also provides gymgoers a sense of purpose and satisfaction, knowing their efforts contribute to a greener planet.”

Eco-friendly gyms not only benefit the environment, but also enhance the wellbeing of their members. The use of natural light and high-efficiency LED lighting, non-toxic cleaning supplies and improved air quality contribute to a healthier workout environment. Innovative centers that merge fitness with environmental consciousness often incorporate recycled and natural elements into their design, creating a calming, invigorating environment that enhances both physical workouts and mental well-being.

Pioneering Fitness Centers

The Green Microgym-Belmont, in Portland, Oregon, has taken sustainability to a whole new level. Founder Adam Boesel says, “I created this gym to offer a green, eco-friendly alternative to conventional health clubs. The goal was to operate with conservation in mind on every level possible, from electricity to equipment to mindset for staff and clients.”

Terra Hale is London’s first eco-friendly fitness destination. Their three locations are designed to put the principle of sustainability at the center. The floor is made of reconverted rubber; walls are made of recycled wood; and the members’ towels are biodegradable.

Sustainability is important to large fitness center chains, too. Life Time and

Selecting an Eco-Friendly Gym

When touring a fitness center, look beyond the number of free-weight stations and consider these eco-friendly features:  Location: Find a gym close to home or work to save both time and fuel.  Energy Efficiency: Check for renewable energy sources like solar and energy-efficient lighting.  Building Materials: Consider how sustainable and recycled materials are incorporated in construction and décor. Look for facilities with certifications, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) from the U.S. Green Building Council or B Corporation from B Lab. A facility that incorporates natural lighting and temperature controls is a plus.

Sustainable floor materials include recycled rubber, bamboo and cork.  Equipment: Search for gyms with equipment made from recycled materials and that invest in energy-efficient or power-generating machines. Look for brands like Precor, Life Fitness and

SportsArt, which prioritize sustainability in their equipment design.  Waste Reduction: Look for gyms that avoid single-use items, including towels, cups, water bottles and paper schedules, notices and pamphlets. A comprehensive recycling program should be a minimum standard.  Water Conservation: Prioritize gyms with water-saving facilities, such as low-flow showers and toilets.  Air Quality: Ask about the gym’s ventilation and air filtering systems to ensure a healthier workout. Gyms with moss- or plant-covered walls bring the outdoors in and naturally purify the air.  Cleaning Products: Choose a gym that uses environmentally friendly cleaning products, preferably those that are biodegradable and made from natural ingredients.  Education: Check out the gym’s website and schedule to see if they educate and engage with their members about green habits and environmental conservation.

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 Community Involvement: Inquire if the gym actively participates in local environmental initiatives.

Kiki Powers is a health writer, blogger and national speaker specializing in plantbased nutrition and healthy green living.

Learn more at RawKiki.com.

kundaFLoW Yoga & gong Bath

with DamaDe’ Saturday, november 25th • 12-3pm ohMega sound experienCe with Charlie Logan Sunday, november 26th • 4-6pm

MaLa MagiC Workshop

with Masha Saturday, december 2nd • 1-3pm pixie mfr/shutterstock.com

Planet Fitness annually report how they are reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, minimizing waste, educating members about eco-friendly living and supporting sustainability initiatives in their communities.

soMatiC Yoga

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www.LoveYogaCenter.com November 2023

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Food Sensitivity Versus Food Allergies

by Dee Harris

T

he immune system reacts in multiple ways that may result in a food allergy, food sensitivity or intolerance.

Some reactions to food are an abnormal response in the gut that occurs for many different reasons and at any age.

A food intolerance indicates the body’s lack of an enzyme to break down the food correctly. For example, when an individual with a lactose intolerance consumes milk or ice cream, they will experience cramping and diarrhea because their body does not make enough of the enzyme lactase to break it down. The workaround for this is taking enzymes with the food. Lactose-free milk has had the enzyme added to break down the lactose.

foods. They are associated with allergies to food, environment, animals or even parasitic infections. Sometimes a person reports that they have “outgrown” their food allergy. The creation of an IgG4 (immunoglobulin G subtype 4) is associated with allergy therapies to help neutralize the reaction of IgE. Our bodies may also create IgG4 in response to exposure and IgE. Occasionally, very high levels of IgG4 may also be damaging and contribute to Eosinophilic Esophagitis, as well as autoimmune thyroid disease.

IgG4 may also be a benefit by creating a blocking potential when IgG4 production is greater that IgE production. This will decrease the allergic reactions to the food allergy.

Food Sensitivity

Testing

A food sensitivity (IgG) is usually the result of gut permeability, or leaky gut. When food drops through an ultra-permeable lining of the gut, the lymph system looks at the food and decides what belongs and what doesn’t. Certain foods that an individual is used to eating may fall through the lining and get placed on the “doesn’t belong” list. Now the immune system creates antibodies, called IgG, for the proteins in specific foods. These antibodies may lead to inflammation and irritation of not only the gut lining, but may cause systemic issues, as well. What may amplify the reaction is the production of C3D or its complement. C3D is activated in response and attaches onto the antigen and greatly increases inflammation and symptoms of this sensitivity from 1,000 to 10,000-fold. It is important to test both IgG and C3D at the same time to determine the culprit foods and the extent of the sensitivity. Food sensitivities are more subtle than an allergy and hard to determine with just an elimination diet, because it may take up to three or four days after consuming the food to have a reaction.

Food Allergy

A food allergy (IgE) is quite different than a food sensitivity.

These are immediate responses to a substance or food that enters the body. Food allergy reactions may be very serious and can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling.

The antibodies produced by the body in response to the exposure can become confused, or cross reactive, and begin attacking 16

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It is important to test for all these reactions when having a food allergy and sensitivity test to get the full picture. The Precision Point Diagnostics Precision Allergy 88 blood test will look at four groups of antibodies- IgE, IgG4, IgA and IgG, as well as complement C3D. Most other allergy/sensitivity tests only look at one group of antibodies. For individuals that have symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, bloating, fatigue, constipation, hives, or migraines, this is a test to consider. After assessing an individual’s full history and symptoms, a plan can be developed to lower inflammation, heal gut permeability and blunt the immune response to restore health.

Dee Harris, RDN, is the owner of D-Signed Nutrition, located in the Bonita Bay Executive Center at 3531 Bonita Bay Blvd., Ste. 300, in Bonita Springs. For appointments and more information, call 239-676-5249 or visit D-SignedNutrition.com. See ad, page 31.

reader spotlight

Meet Candace Tranter Fort Myers Resident

Work: Owner of Supreme Health and Wellness.

Proudest achievement: My absolute highlight has been creating tools that genuinely change lives.

Helping people overcome emotional and physical pain or trauma is something that fills me with immense pride.

Expectations for the future: My hope for the future is rooted in mental health facilities that are affordable and relatable. For spaces that not only prioritize mental well-being, but also nurture the body and spirit, from embracing holistic nutrition to providing personalized coaching and diverse healing techniques. These centers will be a hub of comprehensive well-being where everyone feels a sense of belonging and finds the support they need to truly flourish.

Favorite local or global causes supported: World Vision, Ends of the Earth adventures.

Favorite thing about Natural Awakenings: What I love about Natural Awakenings is how it’s all about learning and finding alternative paths to thrive. It’s like a treasure trove of knowledge that keeps on giving.

Most frequented healthy food restaurant: Organically Twisted, Naples; Loving Hut, Cape Corall and Masala Mantra, Cape Coral.

How you support your community: I’m all about giving back to my community. I organize classes and workshops that help people push through tough times, especially when we’re all dealing with the aftermath of a storm or shared trauma. I also host a free virtual Ultimate Breathing Experience once a month.

Favorite inspirational quote: “Love her, but leave her wild.” ~ Atticus Poetry What you are doing to be the change you want to see in the world: Being the change means simply showing up and being that ray of hope for others who are struggling to find peace. It’s about being there no matter what, because we all need a helping hand sometimes.

What you are passionate about that brings you joy: I’m passionate about being on or near the water, connecting with Mother Earth on my paddleboard. Additionally, I’m passionate about helping people thrive against all odds and bringing love and peace to the world.

Who your mentor is: Currently, my mentor is Tyler Watson. I’m enhancing my skills by pursuing certification as an elite performance coach specializing in the Cellular Alignment Technique.

What you would like to see in the community: More affordable workshops and retreats that provide the necessary tools for peace and growth.

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17

conscious eating

Plant-Forward Holidays

FESTIVE FOODS EVERYONE WILL CRAVE

by Veronica Hinke there might be one or two people at a party who followed a plant-forward diet. Now, we have to plan our menus to have more plant-based options,” notes Ojai, California-based dietician Sharon Palmer. “Even if only half of the guests follow a plant-based diet, my dishes are gone. Even the carnivores love them.”

Plant-Forward Eating

“When we think about plant-forward eating, what we are really going to do is add more vitamins, minerals and fiber and reduce the amount of calories that we consume,” says Sherry Coleman Collins, a registered dietitian and nutritionist in Marietta, Georgia. “That is especially important during the holidays when we are inclined toward eating more caloriedense foods that have more fat, sugar and salt. A plant-forward meal can naturally reduce some of that without losing the flavor and enjoyment of eating.”

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All in the Presentation

plant-forward menu can be one of the best gifts that a host can give this holiday season. It is also more likely than ever that guests will welcome a celebration menu filled with vegetables and fruits.

A 2023 survey by the International Food Information Council found that six out of 10 people reported eating a more plant-based diet to be healthier. “About 20 years ago, 18

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The name of a recipe can make a difference. “Why even say vegan?” Palmer asks. “Research shows that using the word vegan loses the crowd. There are people who will immediately think less tasty. If you lead with a description and its flavors, people are much more interested in trying it.”

The Holiday Centerpiece

When planning a plant-forward meal, consider making it the spotlight of the celebration. “What replaces that focal point can come in a variety of different forms,” says Colleen PatrickGoudreau, a thought leader on the culinary, social, ethical and practical aspects of living compassionately and healthfully. “I think what’s missing for people isn’t just the meat. I don’t think people are thinking, ‘I need my meat.’ I think they are thinking, ‘This looks so unfamiliar and incomplete.’ So, how do we complete it?”

Patrick-Goudreau suggests a large acorn squash stuffed and baked with flavors and foods of the season, including grains (quinoa, millet, rice), cranberries and raisins sautéed with on-

ions and seasoned with winter spices like cloves, cinnamon and cardamom. “That stuffed squash can be the focal point, not just on the plate, but also on the table,” she asserts. “Now the oohs and the aahs are about the squash as the centerpiece.”

Plant-based nutrition specialists and restaurateurs Bart Potenza and Joy Pierson were among the first to elevate plantbased menus in the 1990s to the flavor-filled, crave-worthy foods enjoyed today. They love a whole, roasted cauliflower that is frosted with cashew cream and cut into slices. “[Cauliflower] is the new white meat,” Pierson says. “It’s about sharing beautiful foods with friends and family.”

Part of the plant-based movement has been accomplished by incorporating more ingredients. “We are omnivorous, so we don’t naturally crave meat, but we do crave fat, salt, texture, familiarity and flavor,” says Palmer. “The recipes that I make for the holidays check all of those boxes. I always volunteer to bring the entrée. I try to think of something savory that’s also seasonal and matches the holiday menu.”

“It is important to have a nutritionally balanced meal, especially during the holidays, which tend to be more meat- and carbforward with all the roasts and gravies,” she says. “My rosemary spicy roasted nuts are a party snack with savory, smoky, spicy and sweet flavors. A huge amount of fresh, chopped rosemary gives them an amazing flavor boost along with added health benefits. I have several favorite plant-forward recipes that I make during the holidays, including my jalapeño cranberry sauce and my kohlrabi slaw, but the nuts are the most popular.”

Palmer makes meatless appetizers that stand up to their classic meat-based counterparts. One of her favorites is golden beet vegan meatballs with almond sage cranberry cream. It is made with shredded golden beets and showcases flavors of the season like hazelnuts, flaxseed, sage and thyme. “They’re just so colorful, which is especially nice at holiday time,” she says. “More and more people are realizing that [plant-forward food] is going to be delicious. They’re not going to miss out. It’s going to be satisfying, colorful and amazing.”

Delicious Plant-Based Starters

Veronica Hinke is a food historian and the author of The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining and Style and Titanic: The Official Cookbook. Learn more at FoodStringer.com.

photo courtesy of Bart Potenza and Joy Pierson

Minnesota-based Instagram influencer Kristi Erdal makes a plant-based holiday party snack that can double as a holiday gift.

ROASTED WHOLE CAULIFLOWER WITH CASHEW CREAM YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS CAULIFLOWER: 1 medium cauliflower 1 cup prepared vegetable broth CASHEW CREAM: ½ cup raw, unsalted cashews, soaked overnight, or for 15 minutes in hot water (see Note) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tsp if fresh) ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp if fresh) ¼ cup olive oil ½ cup prepared vegetable broth ½ cup chopped thyme, parsley or herbs of choice for garnish Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Pour 1 cup of vegetable broth on the bottom of a baking dish.

Trim the cauliflower by removing the outer leaves. Wash the cauliflower. Cut the bottom, but leave the stem intact so it stands upright.

Place the cauliflower in the prepared baking dish on top of the broth. Roast uncovered for 30 minutes.

with ¾ of the cashew cream, like you would a cake.

Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake it until it is golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Remove the cauliflower from the oven.

Drizzle the remaining cashew cream over the cauliflower and garnish with the ½ cup of fresh herbs.

NOTE: It is not necessary to soak cashews if using a highspeed blender.

Meanwhile, place the cashews, garlic, onion powder, herbs, oil and broth in a blender to make a paste.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Serve with all the holiday classics: sweet potatoes with marshmallows, mashed potatoes, wild rice, roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce.

Can be served with sautéed mushrooms, gravy and cranberry relish.

After the cauliflower is roasted, keep it in the baking pan and use a spatula or a butter knife to “frost” it

Recipe and photo courtesy of Bart Potenza and Joy Pierson.

November 2023

19

Tried every diet plan?

Not losing weight, no matter what you do?

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

IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT! Hormones, Adrenals, and Digestion play havoc with your metabolic system making it impossible to get the weight off.

Marcelle Pick, OB GYN, NP

MINI CURRIED LENTIL WELLINGTONS YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS CURRIED LENTIL FILLING: 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil ½ medium onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 Tbsp water 1 medium carrot, chopped ½ cup brown mushrooms, chopped ½ cup frozen peas, thawed 1 Tbsp curry powder ¼ tsp black pepper ½ cup small green or brown lentils, uncooked 2 cups vegetable broth ¼ cup chopped walnuts PASTRY: 1 package vegan puff pastry, defrosted (1 pound 1.5 ounces cut into 8 5-by-5-inch squares) ½ cup water 2 Tbsp plant-based milk, plain, unsweetened In a large skillet, heat the olive oil.

Sauté the onion and garlic for 4 minutes. Add water and stir.

Add the carrots, mushrooms, peas, curry powder and black pepper and sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the lentils and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.

Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then remove the lid and allow to simmer for another 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the lentils are tender but not mushy. Adjust moisture as needed

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by adding water if too much is lost to evaporation during cooking. Should achieve a moist texture, with no residual liquid.

Stir the walnuts into the mixture and remove from the stove.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare the pastry by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out 8 puff pastry squares evenly over the baking sheet.

Fill the center of each pastry square with ¼ cup of filling.

Place water in a small dish. Moisten fingertips with water and swipe across the bottom two edges of each pastry.

Fold over the top edge of the pastry to line up with the bottom edge, forming a triangle.

Dip a pastry brush in a small dish of water and moisten the bottom edge of the pastry.

Using a fork, secure the top edge to the bottom edge of the pastry by pressing with the fork around the entire edge.

Place plant-based milk in a small dish.

Dip a pastry brush into the plant-based milk and moisten the surface of the pastries with the brush.

Place in the oven and bake until golden brown, about 18 to 22 minutes.

golfza.357/shutterstock.com

Recipe and photo courtesy of Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN.

November 2023

21

CREAMY LEEK POLENTA YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS 2 Tbsp nondairy butter, divided 3 large leeks (white and pale green parts only), washed and thinly sliced 4¼ cups water (or half vegetable stock and half water) 1 cup coarse cornmeal (polenta) ¼ cup nutritional yeast flakes 1 tsp salt, added gradually to taste Freshly ground pepper, to taste Melt 1 tablespoon of the nondairy butter in a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat.

Add the leeks and stir to coat. Cover and cook until the leeks soften, stirring occasionally for 7 to 10 minutes.

Add the water and broth, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the polenta while whisking simultaneously. Whisking is essential, otherwise the cornmeal will clump up. Continue stirring until the mixture is thick and creamy.

PsychotheRAPist LocAteD in nAPLes

At this point, switch from a whisk to a wooden spoon and continue to stir. Add the nutritional yeast and salt and continue to stir until it is thoroughly combined and the mixture is thick and creamy.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of nondairy butter. Cover and let sit for 15 minutes before serving.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and divide the polenta among plates.

Reprinted with permission from The 30-Day Vegan Challenge: The Ultimate Guide to Eating Healthfully and Living Compassionately by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

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Choosing the Essentials

Monica Friel is the founder and chief executive organizer of Chicago-based Chaos to Order, which works with clients to improve organization in their lives. She advises that our homes have essentially become storage units filled with unused items. With the average American house more than double the size it was in 1950, according to National Public Radio, we have more space than ever to store what we don’t need. “For most people, our home is the biggest purchase we make, yet it’s so full of stuff it has actually become a burden. We’re embarrassed to have people over because of the clutter. I encourage

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clients to examine what’s weighing them down and start removing excess items that are adding to physical and emotional space. Think about if you were moving in three months, what would you want to take with you,” she says.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Americans spend $1.2 trillion annually on things they don’t essentially need. Becker says that focusing on minimalism allows us to invest our money where it truly matters. “Choosing to accumulate only the essentials can lead the way to financial freedom. Spending less on things you don’t really need will cut your financial expenses and provide an opportunity to

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fter a pandemic largely spent at home, many Americans are holding up a mirror to their lives and examining what really matters. Finding that material possessions weigh them down, people are turning to minimalism to simplify their physical, mental and emotional space. According to a study in ScienceDirect, a decluttered lifestyle improves sustainability and boosts emotional well-being. By paring down our possessions, we can become more authentic, simplify our finances and pave an easier pathway for the next generation.

According to Joshua Becker, author of four books on the subject, including The More of Less and Things That Matter, “Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value by removing everything that distracts us from them. This provides a refreshing sense of freedom with a new level of independence that comes from no longer being tied to material possessions. Modern culture has bought into the lie that more is better and happiness can be purchased at a department store, but embracing minimalism brings freedom from the all-consuming passion to possess and dares to seek happiness elsewhere. It values relationships, experiences and soulcare, and lets us see all that we already have and reminds us to be grateful.”

When starting to declutter, Becker recommends parting with the easiest stuff first. “Start by eliminating everyday things around the house you no longer need, such as duplicate items. For example, your family needs towels, so you will never remove them completely, but you could simplify your life by reducing the number of towels you own. You will enjoy the refreshing feeling of a less-cluttered linen closet or bathroom drawer. As you experience the benefits in your life, you’ll become better at finding solutions for the more difficult items,” he explains.

Friel says that it is often not the actual physical object people are attached to, but the memories associated with it. She points out that with younger generations increasingly accessing digital and online information, they don’t necessarily have the same ties to objects as their parents do. “That rocking chair in the corner of the basement may have been important to Grandma, but now it’s just taking up space. It’s the story behind the chair, not the actual piece of furniture itself, that matters. People can take a photo of the object and share its history with digital storage, and the memory will last forever,” she says.

Family heirlooms can become even more complicated for the sandwich generation—those taking care of both aging parents and their own children. Friel says that the best thing parents can do is to start downsizing early. For adult children sort-

Benefits for the Planet

Adopting a minimalist approach is also better for the planet. Vourneen McElwain, the creator of The Plain Simple Life, says that embracing minimalism and sustainability has a positive impact on the world around us. “At its core, minimalism is all about living with less. So, when we choose this lifestyle, we reduce the demand for the excessive production of goods. Minimalism also encourages us to be more mindful about our consumption, so we tend to invest in higher-quality items that last longer, instead of falling into the fast-fashion or disposable-products trap. Plus, when we own fewer items we can choose to live in a smaller and more energy-efficient home,” she advises.

Being mindful of how we downsize can help keep the environmental impact to a minimum. McElwain points out, “We never want our unused items ending up polluting the environment in a landfill or

in the sea. The most eco-friendly way to declutter is to donate things that are still in good condition or to give them away to family and friends. This way, we can give these items a brand-new life and help others without over-consuming new products.

“You’d be surprised how something that may appear meaningless to some can hold great value for others. You can also sell unwanted items, which helps others get access to something they might need without having to buy new and produce more waste. Finally, if an item is truly broken and unusable, there are ways to repurpose it. Even if you’re not a DIY person yourself, there are many who would be happy to take your broken, threelegged chair and turn it into a beautiful and unique piece of furniture.”

McElwain notes that minimalism encourages us to become conscious consumers. “A minimalist lifestyle prompts us to ask ourselves if we really need or love an item, and if we have a place for it in our lives. As we become more intentional with our choices, we also start to look into the origins of the things we buy. We try harder to support businesses that align with our values, such as those that prioritize fair trade, ethical manufacturing practices or eco-friendly operations,” she explains.

“By adopting minimalism, we don’t just declutter our spaces, we also contribute to social and environmental causes that shape a sustainable future.”

peopleimages.com/shutterstock.com

Damian Lugowski/shutterstock.com

Declutter Strategies

ing their parents’ stuff, it is often best to ask for help. “Life transitions, such as a death in the family or moving elderly parents into a retirement community, can be difficult and draining endeavors. Find someone to help who is not emotionally attached, such as a professional organizer. They can provide unbiased guidance and help defuse any conflicts that may arise. This can even be done remotely now with families online via Zoom. So much of downsizing is about control. But making responsible choices with how to allocate your belongings actually helps put you in control of your legacy and makes it easier for your kids and other family members,” she explains.

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not just save money for the sake of keeping it for yourself, but to use it to further causes that you believe in. It also allows you to seek out jobs that are not necessarily tied to income,” he says.

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

November 2023

25

business spotlight

Food & Thought 2 Everything Organic

by Lisa Marlene

T

he winning combination of live entertainment Thursday through Sunday, farm to table organic produce, delicious menu items for breakfast, lunch and dinner, freshly made vegan and gluten-free bakery items, as well as a fresh juice and coffee bar, make Food & Thought2 Organic Restaurant and Market a hard act to beat. Built on the principles of the original Food and Thought, the organic general store opened in 2004 by Naples resident Frank Oaks, the newest addition to the family of Oaks Farms businesses takes the culinary, shopping and dining experience to a new level for individuals that enjoy living an organic lifestyle.

With a full-service, organic restaurant, live entertainment and a full liquor bar, there is no need to go elsewhere for musical enjoyment because The Yard, located in the courtyard which connects the restaurant and market, is Food & Thought 2’s very own entertainment scene. With live music Thursday through Sunday evenings and Saturdays and Sundays during brunch, The Yard has everything individuals need to enjoy a variety of live music. A satellite bar in the evenings, along with a large fire pit and Adirondack chairs, provide the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying a colorful Florida sunset.

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Food is only as good as the ingredients used to prepare it. At Food & Thought 2, only the best organic ingredients are sourced from the 3,500 acres of Oakes farmland in Immokalee. The rest is sourced from suppliers that have been thoroughly vetted and maintain the highest standards of organic food.

“The restaurant and market have been a great success.

Our excellent kitchen staff has been able to offer consistently good meals, along with good customer service, helping us grow by word of mouth from our customers, which are our best advertising. We’ve completed the bakery, which features everything made from scratch by our pastry chef, who prepares everything conventional as well as organic, vegan and gluten-free. Few stores or bakeries in the area can do this,” says grocery manager Jesus Blas. Frank, whose philosophy applies here, was originally responsible for the Food & Thought brand. “He always told our staff two things: we’re militantly organic so our customers can shop in peace and, we, the staff, should always look at our produce, service, cleanliness and food items, etc. from the customer’s perspective. We’ve carried that credo with us to Food & Thought 2, only now in addition to shopping in peace, people can dine and drink in peace.”

Food & Thought 2 is located at 7941 Airport Rd. N., in Naples. For more information, call 239-325-9590 or visit Food&Thought2.com.

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27

awakenings

Aurora Juliana Ariel

Awakening to Planetary Consciousness

by Yvette Lynn

S

ensing her deepest heartfelt desire to be of help to humanity since her teens, Aurora Juliana Ariel, Ph.D., has spent the last three decades turning that desire into a reality. With more than 38 certificates and degrees in advanced healing methods, as well as a BA, MA and Ph.D. in psychology, she has published life-transforming books, appeared at global conferences and trainings, facilitated healings and created healing music that has helped individuals worldwide become free of human conditioning.

“I was awakened in my teens to a planetary consciousness and remembered my destiny.

I knew that I was here to be a vessel of healing and light to the planet. I had an inner knowing that I needed to trust and follow my inner guidance. I became very masterful at living from that inner spirit. My mother’s illness and my own life challenges were the grains of sand in my oyster shell. They ignited fire in me to uncover the cause of suffering and find remedies. These became the pearl of my awakening and soul advancement,” says Ariel.

As a pioneering psychologist whose research and work provided a profound understanding of the psyche and the tools to heal an ailing humanity, Ariel became very successful with the development of advanced healing protocols such as her brain balancing protocols and the optimum health and lifestyle programs. “I didn’t understand all those years ago why I needed all the degrees and certifications, but eventually I got that they were needed to give me credibility for the work that I do so that I would be taken seriously,” she explains.

Ariel advises, “I found that most of humanity is living a pattern-driven reality. People generally don’t recognize their patterns. When they’re angry or upset over circumstances in the present, it’s most often the automatic response of their subconscious mind that is activated. Their reactions don’t come from conscious thinking—they come from subconscious patterns, which are automatic behaviors repeated when triggered by an experience of a strong emotional reaction in response to a current disturbing situation.”

The psychologist shares, “I wrote TheQuest: Heal Your Life, Change Your Destiny as a remedy for people who want to heal their patterns, resolve their issues and live victoriously from their higher self, the innate intelligence that is the truth of who we are. I’m helping others to realize a higher destiny than the fate of their human programming would dictate.

It is a revolutionary breakthrough psychological healing system which I discovered long before science and many of today’s luminaries recognized the power of the subconscious.

“Today, I lead healing retreats such as the Advanced Age-Reversing Healing Retreat

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Aurora Juliana Ariel at the Oceanfront Resort, in Cancun, Mexico. It’s a 7-day intimate retreat blending advanced anti-aging stem cell therapy protocols with a cutting-edge spiritual psychology technology and subconscious re-coding designed to restore youthful health and beauty from the inside-out. For individuals that select the stem cell therapy package, free consultations are given by a top US doctor that specializes in stem cell therapy that is like is a light force that restores a youthful body. Each day at the retreat there is an application of age-reversing total regeneration training and healing plus a partial day of receiving a stem cell therapy IV that consists of the purest high grade quality stem cells, the individual wants.

I also offer monthly global healing forums, certification courses and programs,” says the member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.

For more information, email Healing@ TheOracle.LOVE or visit TheOracle.Love.

See ad for the retreat, page 29.

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Restoring Your Youthful Health & Beauty from the Inside Out This is an intimate retreat providing you with quality attention and support

Stem Cell Therapy is a Light Force Restoring Youthful Body Each day there will be an advanced application of Age Reversing Total Regeneration Trainings and Healing plus a partial day receiving a Stem Cell Therapy IV (We only use consensual purest high grade quality stem cells) and any other treatment you want (injections directly into knees, etc, a fantastic PRP w stem cells/exosomes and more at a cutting edge world class clinic (with no extra cost for the different applications).

$4444 for Retreat includes: 7 Day Quantum Regeneration Retreat with Aurora Juliana Ariel, PhD Premium All Inclusive King Ocean Front Room + Lots of Amenities Free Consultation w/ top US Doctor in Stem Cell Therapy Field to Design Your Anti–Aging, Stem Cell Regenerative Treatments starting at $2950 for Wide Range of Conditions Any Treatment Free w/purchase of Stem Cell Anti Aging/Age Reversal IV package (shots in knees, shoulder, PRP, and more) Free Transport to & from Stem Cell Therapy Treatment Center near Clinic Powerful Healing Circles w/ Dr. Aurora Ariel & Divine Master Healer Team Receiving Major Upgrades, Re-coding, Clearings, Training, Knowledge & Quantum Self Actualization Activations

Not Included: Plane Flights, Airport Transport to & From Hotel ($70 RT), Extra food/meals outside of hotel or that are not included, Stem Cell Therapy Package

For more information call 239-207-2775 or visit ioah.org.

29 November 2023

wise words

Sam Stedman

ON HELPING KIDS MAKE CONSCIENTIOUS CHOICES

by Sandra Yeyati

S

am Stedman is the co-founder and publisher of EcoParent, a quarterly print magazine distributed in North America that is designed to help parents make better choices for their families. He holds a Ph.D. in experimental theater and ethical philosophy from the University of Toronto and was a university professor for more than 10 years in Ontario. Stedman lives in Belize with his 12-year-old son, Ransom.

less than average, but I’m still using more than my share well before the year mark is over. How do you live with that? I wish I had good answers, but if we’re trying and we make our choices well, then we’re heading in the right direction.

Do you homeschool your son?

We need to get into the habit of doing the work, taking the time to research, learn, educate and be conscious of the choices in front of us so that we don’t make default decisions. Once you get past the surface level of reading labels and knowing what organic certification is, you have to keep taking it deeper. It’s ever-shifting sands. Science keeps developing. New certifications and concerns arise. New chemicals are developed to replace old chemicals that were bad.

We might get to a point where we realize we can’t make a reasonable choice because the information is impenetrable or requires another 15 hours of research.

It might be a toss-up, a lesser of evils or an equal of evils, but being conscious and present to it is so important, and that’s what I want to instill in my son. I want 30

Collier/Lee Counties

Blaise Misiek/Sam Stedman

How can parents inspire children to make eco-friendly choices?

him to know that I thought about the things we did and the choices we made, and that he can, too.

How do you help your child cope with eco-anxiety?

The word of the day around here has been acceptance. You have to accept situations as they are, and frustrating and heartwrenching as they may be, when you literally can’t make a good choice, you also have to let yourself live in this world.

If you’ve ever done one of those carbon footprint calculators, most North Americans use up their global annual share of resources within a few months.

I definitely use less than I used to and

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

At the start of COVID, we started homeschooling, but I discovered that I’m not a great homeschool dad in the sense of having all kinds of time to prepare curriculum and open up interesting possibilities.

What we ultimately settled on, and this was a part of the shift and move to Belize, was an unschooling approach, which is the term for learning in the classroom of life, not having a set curriculum and instead being self-directed.

My son is free to create his own projects. It’s an interesting social experiment and a process of deinstitutionalization or de-schooling, as it’s called in the unschooling community, for myself and for him. I spent 30 years in school, from kindergarten to finishing my Ph.D., and what did it get me? I was a straight-A student, but when I graduated, nobody was giving me a job on a silver platter, and I had never been taught how to go out and make something happen. The hardest thing I ever did was give up my academic career to become an entrepreneur, but it was the best thing I ever did. So what I’ve been trying to teach my son is how

to learn on his own, but more importantly how to make things happen in the world.

My son is a devotee of Minecraft, so he has built a lot of his education around that. He started a YouTube channel, which required him to learn how to edit videos. He also wants to build a survival multiplayer environment, which means that he has to be able to code his own twist on Minecraft. He had to create an excellent promotional video, which required that he write marketing copy, and he’s learning how to write the rules of the multiplayer environment in a clear way, which is technical writing. We never know where these projects are going to go, but it involves reading, writing, coding, video editing and an endless amount of troubleshooting and interfacing with different systems.

What is the key to successful parenting in this setting?

If your kid is going to sit and play video games all the time and do nothing productive, and it’s not going to lead into fruitful territories, then they need more structure. You have to remain engaged.

It’s great to allow him to direct everything, but his sphere of experience is still pretty myopic compared to an adult that has seen a lot more, so my job is to keep finding side trips and lateral movements that will keep him opening doors that he doesn’t even necessarily know are there.

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Caloosahatchee Mindfulness for Well-Being

by Linda Sechrist

Doctor of Oriental Medicine Esthetician

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community spotlight

any people are curious about mindfulness meditation, wondering if it resembles Transcendental Meditation or other ancient forms based on Eastern spiritual traditions. To satisfy their curiosity, Southwest Floridians can join Caloosahatchee Mindfulness at a Day of Mindfulness Silent Retreat from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., on November 18, in the community room of Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, in Fort Myers.

While all meditation practices are intended for well-being, they do have differences. “Mindfulness is paying attention to your life in this present moment without judgment. It has also been called clear seeing and friendly attention to the present. When we’re mindful, we reduce stress, enhance performance, gain insight and awareness through observing our own mind and increase our attention to other’s well-being. Everyone can benefit,” says Maggie Stevens, a mindfulness meditation teacher and member of the Caloosahatchee Mindfulness community (formerly Hearts Path to Mindful Living) in the Ft. Myers area.

Dedicated members of Caloosahatchee Mindfulness—Maggie Mullins, Mary Robinson and Kathy Leitsch—formed The Caloosahatchee Rising Tide Sangha.

Trained in Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program, they offered meditation in the Lee Health cardiac rehab and in some adult living facilities in the area until COVID-19.

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

“Our Caloosahatchee Mindfulness community is in the Plum Village tradition of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hahn. Our Friday morning sitting meditations at 10 a.m. and Friday evenings at 5 p.m. are for one hour on Zoom. They include a 20-minute meditation with initial guidance, and then silent sitting.

After the meditation, there is a group discussion, five-minute silent reflection, and then a thought for the week and checkout. These meditations and the sangha are free, and no experience is necessary. All are welcome,” says Stevens, who adds that annual membership in Caloosahatchee Mindfulness is affordable (student/seniors $20, individual $20 and family $60).

The goal is to provide mindfulness to the community as a way of helping with well-being.

“Even if you aren’t familiar with the reading, you’re likely to find something of value in the discussion and be able to share from your own experiences if you choose,” says Stevens. These meditations are free, and all are welcome,” says Stevens.

Caloosahatchee Mindfulness has other offerings such as walking meditations to bring awareness to the present moment and all the beauty that surrounds us.

According to Thich Nhat Hanh, practicing mindful walking is a profound and pleasurable way to deepen the connection with the body and the Earth.

An Introduction to Yoga Nidra, with Jamie Verley, consists of gentle move-

ment, mindful breathing and a guided relaxation that makes an individual feel like they’re floating on air. The restorative mindfulness technique is referred to as “yogic sleep”. The session includes the science behind how yoga nidra works, followed by an hour-long practice.

Mindful Art, with Vicki Durso, is a free-flowing meditative art practice with mindful drawing using neurographic art. The technique, invented by a Russian psychologist, enhances brain function by impacting brain wave patterns, emotions and the nervous system. No previous art experience is required.

The Wednesday Morning Book Club is presently reading Boundless Heart,

by Christina Feldman. The small group studies and shares books on mindfulness practices to create a happier and healthier life.

At a time when millions of people worldwide are struggling with their mental health and well-being, mindfulness meditation can help. “Meditation is an investment in a better life,” advises Stevens.

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is located at 7751 Penzance Blvd., in Ft. Myers.

For more information on the retreat, call Caloosahatchee Mindfulness at 941-8880116 or visit CaloosahatcheeMindfulness. org. See ad, page 22.

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November 2023

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healing ways

Lung Maintenance 101

NATURAL STRATEGIES TO BREATHE EASIER

by Sheila Julson

A

francescoridolfi.com/Canva

ccording to Madiha Saeed, a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, controlling chronic inflammation is an important strategy in pulmonary rehabilitation. “A healthy inflammation response, or acute inflammation, means the body’s defenses are working properly. But if the switch to our immune system stays in the ‘on’ position, it can be too much of a good thing,” explains the founder of HolisticMom, MD. Daily exposure to inflammatory triggers, such as chronic stress, allergens, synthetic food additives and low-grade infection, can drive disease. Saeed notes that exercise helps combat inflammation by relieving stress, regulating digestion, improving insulin sensitivity, detoxifying the body and increasing the feel-good hormone serotonin.

Most people inhale about 22,000 times per day without realizing it, but for the more than 34 million Americans living with lung diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, taking a breath is often difficult. The American Lung Association reports that one in three Americans live in places with unhealthy levels of air pollution. Everyone needs fresh, life-sustaining oxygen, and natural therapies are available to help us breathe a little easier.

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Exercise

Dawn Encian is a Virginia-based functional nutritionist and organizer of the Breathe Easy, Breathe Well summit, which focuses on non-pharmaceutical ways to manage respiratory conditions. She asserts that exercise makes the heart and lungs work harder, thereby supplying more oxygen to muscles. “Regular exercise also increases blood volume, resulting in the body being able to extract oxygen more efficiently,” she advises.

For those with healthy lungs, Encian recommends high-intensity interval training, brisk walking, jogging, running or jumping rope, as well as strength-enhancing modalities like weightlifting, Pilates or yoga. For people with respiratory issues, she suggests lower-intensity exercise like walking, tai chi and cycling on a stationary bike or flat land, as well as light exercises with bands or small weights. Breathing exercises that focus on the diaphragm and expel stale air also support lung efficiency.

Saeed suggests that stretching can improve range of motion, boost circulation and keep muscles flexible. Some people tend to hold their breath while stretching, so it is helpful to become more conscious about our breathing during these movements.

Saeed cautions, “Don’t overdo it. Exercise as long as you feel good and energized afterward. If you feel exhausted or worse after exercise, or if your symptoms worsen, you’re doing too much.” Both Encian and Saeed note that people with respiratory

quality, and some state how long it is safe to be outside if someone has a respiratory condition. If going outside on a poor air quality day cannot be avoided, masks may be helpful in reducing exposure to pollutants. Encian also recommends personal air purifiers worn around the neck.

fizkes/Shutterstock.com

Nutrition

conditions or chronic illness should consult a physician before starting any exercise program.

Fresh Air

Many home items, from furniture to rugs and bedding, contain chemicals that off-gas volatile organic compounds. Saeed cautions that inhaling these chemicals can be as dangerous as consuming them. Indoor air purifiers, which range in size and cost, can help filter toxins and optimize detoxification.

Swapping out chemically laden household cleaners can also effectively improve indoor air quality. Encian makes her own cleaners with essential oils, dried lemon and orange rinds, rubbing alcohol, witch hazel and water.

Houseplants offer an affordable way to improve indoor air quality. Encian recommends aloe, snake plants, peace lilies, ferns, rubber plants, chrysanthemums, spider plants, areca palm and dracaena. Saeed also likes weeping fig, Chinese evergreen, bamboo, Gerbera daisies and English ivy.

Getting outdoors is often recommended to maintain overall health and well-being, but Saeed recommends checking the local air quality index before heading out. Many apps show air

Proper diet and nutrition can help strengthen the lungs. Saeed and Encian believe that dairy may lead to the production of excess mucus. Foods with carotenoids and vitamin A, like sweet potatoes, carrots, berries and leafy greens, promote mucusmembrane health. Magnesium, garlic, mustard seeds, onions, lentils, omega-3s found in cold-water fish, nuts, flaxseeds and foods high in vitamins B5 and B6 are beneficial for lungs and overall immune health, as are vitamins C and D. Staying properly hydrated will also help airways function appropriately.

Rest and Relaxation

Optimizing sleep can help support the immune system. Encian also recommends steam baths or showers with essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, frankincense and rosemary, to open the airways and expel mucus. Chiropractic, acupuncture, acupressure and energy work can also facilitate lung health and overall wellness.

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

November 2023

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Nina Buday/Shutterstock.com

fit body

Holiday Workouts TIPS FOR STAYING MOTIVATED

by Kiki Powers

D

uring the holidays, it is easy to get swept up in all the festive cheer and forget fitness goals. The cold weather and tempting holiday treats make it tough to stay motivated to exercise. But with a few simple strategies, those fitness goals can be kept alive throughout the season.

Make a Plan and Stick to It

“One of the most powerful ways to keep yourself on top of your game during the winter and holiday season is to create a simple and effective workout routine,” asserts Anthony Roumell, a certified personal trainer in San Diego. A study published in Research in Sports Medicine confirms that patients that set intentions and action plans are more likely to adhere to the recommended level of exercise.

“The key is the discipline to create a healthy lifestyle all year round,” advises Josh York, founder of GYMGUYZ, a mobile fitness franchise in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom. “A good exercise routine should be part of your regular active routine, just like brushing your teeth. Planning ahead, setting achievable goals and tracking progress will help you stay on track and keep motivated. Whether it’s working out in the morning before work or hitting the gym at lunchtime, be sure to track progress to stay motivated,” he recommends.

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Mix It Up

To keep things interesting, mix up workout routines. For example, swap the cardio session for a strength training workout, or try a new class like Pilates, yoga or dance. A varied routine challenges the body in new ways and keeps the mind engaged while working out.

Roumell likes to use different strategies to jumpstart his fitness. “Sometimes it looks like meditation, reading a few pages of a book, watching a funny comedy skit or stretching in my sauna to get the blood flowing. On days I am particularly tired, sore or resistant to my routine, I take things into a bit more of a shock-and-awe context by doing a cold plunge for five minutes,

followed by a review of my fitness goals,” says Roumell.

it more difficult to stick to your fitness routine,” says York.

Find a Workout Buddy

Add Purpose

Choose Healthy Holiday Treats

It’s easy to indulge in sugary treats and heavy meals when everyone is celebrating, but indulging too much can cause weight gain and derail fitness goals. To stay on track, choose healthier holiday snacks like fruit salad, vegetable trays, nuts and lean proteins. When indulging, avoid overeating and practice moderation.

Stay Mindful

Winter months can bring about seasonal affective disorders that can make people feel down and lethargic. Small tasks such as lighting candles, meditation or even a short walk can be uplifting. According to a study published in the Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, exercise can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Find Joy

In the season of joy, find an enjoyable workout routine. “Forcing yourself to do exercises that you hate will only make

“Clearly identifying the benefits you want to gain from fitness, such as improved health, energy and self-esteem, is crucial in helping you stick to your fitness goals,” York explains. When the holidays do disrupt the fitness plan, do not abandon the goal; treat it as a rest day instead. “I use the 80/20 rule when it comes to planning exercise and time off to provide flexibility during the holidays,” he adds.

Reward Progress

Set a workout milestone and receive a reward when it is met. For example, booking a spa day or purchasing a new yoga mat may be the reward for exercising 20 days in a row or nailing a tough pose. Knowing that something special is on the other side of the workout can be a great motivator.

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Winter holidays can be a challenging time for maintaining a fitness routine and meeting personal goals, but with a little bit of planning, determination and the right mindset, holiday cheer will not derail the achievement of fitness goals.

Kiki Powers is a contributing health writer for Natural Awakenings and national speaker specializing in plant-based nutrition and healthy green living. Learn more at RawKiki.com.

Julia Pajumae/shutterstock.com

Exercising with a friend or family member is a great way to stay motivated and accountable during the winter holidays. Find someone that has similar fitness goals and schedule workout dates together.

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healthy kids

The Magic of Parent-Child Synchrony HOW SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT HELPS DEVELOPMENT

by Christine Ramos, RN, CLC, CCM, IBCLC (retired)

duced stress hormone levels and greater amounts of oxytocin, the hormone that plays a vital role in postpartum healing, breastfeeding and pair bonding.

MEOAM Love/KnoWEwell

Benefits of Close Physical Contact

I

magine being an infant born only moments ago. The onslaught of new sensations must be overwhelming as they suddenly feel the weight of a once-buoyant body. Eyes that saw only muted shades are now confronted by the harshness of bright lights.

For nine months, there were no pangs of hunger, but now they will crave nourishment with every fiber. The warmth, comfort and safety of the womb has been replaced with uncertainty, and 38

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the child’s cardiovascular, digestive and immune systems must quickly adjust to new demands.

The simple act of placing a newborn on mom’s chest, referred to as kangaroo care, can produce remarkable benefits.

When it is done for 60 to 90 minutes, this skin-to-skin contact initiates a cascade of physiological effects that optimize every organ system in the infant’s body and promote breastfeeding. The mother also receives benefits, such as re-

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

In 2021, the Proceedings for the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America published a study examining the long-term effects of kangaroo care.

For two decades, researchers followed preterm and full-term babies; some had received kangaroo care (or skin-to-skin contact), and others had not. The children were assessed at four months, three years, 12 years and 20 years.

The scientists concluded that early experiences of frequent, close physical contact play an important role in a child’s social-emotional development and were predictive of a child’s ability later in life to interact with peers, regulate emotions, manage stress and show empathic understanding. According to the authors, bodily contact may provide a bridge from prenatal life to postnatal social life.

Using a method called hyper-scanning, with advanced imaging techniques, scientists sought to identify what was being exchanged between mother and child that yielded such dramatic outcomes. They found that the pair’s neural activity coordinated or synchronized with one another, which led to benefits for the child’s nervous system, immune system, body function and behavioral development.

This synchrony was also present when the parent and child were near one another, not just when practicing kangaroo care. Certain factors strengthened synchrony, such as physical proximity and affectionate touch, which activate dopamine and other feel-good chemicals in the child’s brain, enhancing cognitive functioning such as social learning and reward processing, vital in preventing major mood disorders and addictions.

In effect, kangaroo care (both with or without clothing), carrying an infant in a carrier or sling, frequent or on-demand feedings, sleeping near one another and infant touch or massage promote what has been scientifically termed parentchild interaction synchrony.

rently, interaction synchrony is one of the most studied subjects in modern science, as it has recently been found to exist in a variety of relationships, not just between a parent and child. Yet, for all its profound implications, its relational and developmental dynamics remain a mystery.

Until interaction synchrony unveils more of its secrets, holding and embracing our babies just a little bit longer may be advisable for the health of their growing minds and bodies.

Christine Ramos, the author of A Journey Into Being: Knowing and Nurturing Our Children As Spirit, is a maternal-child health registered nurse who has worked as a certified childbirth educator, certified doula, certified case manager and an internationally board-certified lactation consultant.

This article first appeared in EcoParent magazine and is adapted and reprinted with permission.

Emerging Understanding of Carry Care

A child’s brain continues to grow after birth, and by age 1, the average baby’s brain is about 60 percent of an adult’s brain size. During that first year of postpartum development, caretakers must provide the correct habitat to help the infant cope with its immaturity.

According to anthropological evidence, an optimal habitat can be provided through what is termed carry care, which provides opportunities for close contact and promotes parent-child interaction synchrony. Anthropologists also point out that in Western society parents have evolved away from carry care and toward nest care, where the baby is placed apart from the caregiver.

However, the science suggests that closer contact is beneficial. Interaction synchrony seems so impactful that lack of it may have implications for the development of autism spectrum disorder and other neurobehavioral disorders. Cur-

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November 2023

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natural pet

Responsible Pet Adoption

GUARANTEE A FOREVER HOME FOR A FURRY FRIEND

by Sheila Julson

T

Prostock-studio/shutterstock.com

he idea of bringing a new pet home conjures up images of endless cuddles and joyful frolicking, but there are crucial responsibilities to consider, too. A successful adoption requires thought and preparation well before the furry friend joins the family. The goal is to build a happy environment for the animal’s entire lifetime. Think of it as unconditional love with a no-return policy.

Ruth Allen, director of admissions and placement for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, encourages people to adopt from a local shelter or rescue organization, where “you often have the advantage of learning valuable information about the animal’s background, including

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any important medical or behavioral needs.” Another option, she explains, is to identify a responsible breeder and avoid a socalled puppy mill that engages in cruel breeding practices.

Angela Speed, vice president of marketing and communications for the Wisconsin Humane Society, observes that most people come to their shelter with a specific breed in mind. Adoption counselors help people focus on a pet’s needs, too, so they can find an animal that blends well with their family lifestyle.

“Are they looking for a running partner or a couch potato? Is size a factor for their living situation? We talk about home setting, training and exercise needs, pet care costs, balancing work and animal ownership, and the tools and supplies you need to set yourself and your new companion up for success,” Speed advises.

It’s easy to let emotions or an affinity for a certain breed take precedence when choosing pets. Mike Spiotta, lead kennel manager of North Shore Animal League America, reminds us to keep lifestyle factors at the forefront. He notes that herding dogs, such as border collies or Australian shepherds, are fluffy and attractive but were bred to be active and require lots of space. Other dog breeds may be excessive barkers.

“Animals can develop behavioral challenges because their needs aren’t being met, which can lead to frustration by the owner and the dog eventually being returned to an adoption facility through no fault of its own,” Spiotta cautions.

For those unsure about adopting an animal, most rescue organizations offer foster programs that allow potential pet parents to determine whether a furry addition is right for them.

Many municipal shelters also welcome volunteers to help with dog walking, animal socialization, cleaning and laundry.

Before adopting or fostering, it’s important to make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a pet. Chores such as feeding, grooming and walking the dog or cleaning the cat’s litter box can be divided among family members. “Keep an open mind and heart, because you may fall in love with a pet you’d never considered,” Allen asserts. “Dogs and cats have so much love to give, though some are sometimes overlooked due to their size, breed or even their age.”

People tend to gravitate toward young pets, but senior animals also need a chance to live out their golden years in a loving home and can offer key advantages. Older animals with a his-

tory of living within a family may settle in more quickly than a puppy or kitten. Many older pets are already house-trained, have mastered basic commands and are beyond chewing phases. The personalities of puppies and kittens tend to change as they grow, but personalities of adult animals are often fully formed, although still adaptable.

Allen notes, “It’s okay to give pets as gifts if the person has an interest in owning one, though the easiest way to be certain is to ask the recipient and go through the process together.”

Spiotta cautions against giving an animal as a surprise, saying, “The last thing most people want is more responsibility, especially an unexpected responsibility in the form of a life.” He recommends gift wrapping a collar and including a handwritten note inviting the recipient to choose a pet when they are ready. Many local shelters offer gift certificates for adoption, which allows the recipient an opportunity to make their own decision.

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

Populations of animals vary by shelter. You can find several local animal adoption shelters throughout Collier and Lee counties by googling Animal Adoption Services and the county.

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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.

joins by Zoom. Will cover therapeutic targets from blood, urine, gut and many other tests which give clues and direction to help solve the mystery of what is off balance. Hosts are Deb Martín, holistic health educator; Dr. Yaroslav Pererva, doctor of Oriental medicine; and Vickie Gelardi, food healing consultant. In person and virtual. Lotus Blossom Clinic, 6710 Winkler Rd, Ste 2, Ft Myers. Register, Deb: 303-929-4972.

LotusBlossomClinic.com.

Yoga & Bones – 3:40-4:15pm. How to improve, stabilize and hug your bones. Following the Great Bones Book Club. No experience necessary. Love donation. Lotus Blossom Clinic, 6710 Winkler Rd, Ste 2, Ft Myers. Register, Kandy: 239-851-8815.

LotusBlossomClinic.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1 Mindful Art – 7-9pm. With Vicki Durso. $30/ member, $40/nonmember. Behind the Buddha Studio, 9290-1 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org. See ad on page 22.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Lotus Blossom Clinic Open House – 10am-4pm.

For outside holistic health practitioners to consider doing business at their location. Attendees, including the general public, can see treatment rooms that are suitable for massages, reiki sessions, energy alignment work, private yoga sessions and more.

Lotus Blossom Clinic, 6710 Winkler Rd, Ste 2, Ft Myers. 239-277-1399. LotusBlossomClinic.com.

See ad on page 45 and news brief on page 11.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Mindful Walking – 9-9:30am. Gather at 8:45am.

Facilitator: Valarie Olsen. Free. JayCee Park, 4215 SE 20th Pl, Cape Coral. CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Gore Nature Education Center Open House – 11am, butterfly count; 12-4pm, open house. Celebrate Southwest Florida’s Precious Pollinators at

the group’s Second Sunday Open House. Preceded

by Connie Nagele leading volunteers through the Center on a butterfly count. Free admission; donations appreciated. Gore Nature Education Center, 4261 40th Ave SE, Naples. Register for butterfly count: forms.gle/JnZJvhZcDqFDt33V6. cclandkeepers.com. See news brief on page 9.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Concert: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Greater Naples – 4pm. First in a series of 4 concerts for this season featuring its own music co-directors, Shawn and Abbey Allison. Reception following each performance with refreshments including wine for a small donation. $25/concert, $80/series. UUCGN, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples. 805-400-8019. uunaples.org. See ad on page 10 and news brief on page 9.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Practicing Mindfulness Together – 10:30am2:30pm. Facilitator: Maggie Stevens. $25/nonmember, $20/member; sliding scale fee available.

Six Mile Cypress Slough, 7751 Penzance Blvd, Ft Myers. CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org.

Great Bones Book Club and Food Sampling – 1:30-3pm. Author, Dr. R. Keith McCormick,

Third Annual Mid-Cape Gobble Wobble 5K – 7-11am. The excitement continues after the run with music, gift basket raffles, and a 10% discount on all Market and Café items. Donate non-perishable food items or pet foods in exchange for raffle tickets. $35/adult, $25/age 6-12.

Mercola Market, 125 SW 3rd Pl, Cape Coral.

MercolaMarketcc.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Mystic Faire – 10am-6pm. Gathering of area psychics, healers, artists and others. Massage, reiki, animal communication, tarot, mediums, angel portraits and art, feng shui, crystals, candles, incense, spiritual art, books, jewelry, Native American art and drums, mandalas and more. $5, free/age 12 & under. Etudes Dance Studio, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples. 239-949-3387. MysticFaires.com. See ad on page 41x.

KundaFlow Yoga and Gong Bath – 123pm. With DamaDé. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com. See ad, page 15.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Ohmega Sound Experience – 4-6pm. With Charlie Logan. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com.

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plan ahead

ongoing events

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Mala Magic Workshop – 1-3pm. With Masha.

Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747. LoveYogaCenter.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 Global Unity Gathering – Dec 14-17. Her Holiness Sai Maa will bring her unique fusion of Eastern spiritual wisdom, Western therapeutic knowledge and energetic mastery through teaching sessions and deep energetic work for the personal and global awakening of participants. Online interactive event, $697; energy sessions, $250. Other options for Awakening Mastery and Grand Design memberships. Sai Maa Consciousness membership, free.

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, 400 S Collier Blvd. AwakenedLife.Love. See ads, pages 28 and 43.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 Anti-Aging Presentation – 6pm. Dr. Michael Greger gives a presentation based on his new book How Not to Age followed by a book signing. He will provide basic, highly accessible and evidencebased ways to preserve body functions that keep us feeling youthful physically and mentally and achieving ultimate longevity. $45/general, $75/ VIP. Unity of Naples, 2000 Unity Way. 239-2315538. MichelleJoyKramer.com/tickets. See ad on page 3 and news brief on page 8.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 Age-Reversing and Regeneration Retreat in Cancun, Mexico – Jan 17-23. With Aurora Juliana Ariel, Ph.D., a leader among a team of experts in cuttingedge stem cell therapies. Highlights include a blend of advanced anti-aging stem cell therapy protocols with a leading spiritual psychology technology, agereversing, subconscious re-coding, master divine healers and more. For more info or to register: 239207-2775 or SacredAlchemy.com. See ad, page 29.

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. For more info, arrange for a free, 15-min consultation or appts, 239-250-5115 or AlchemyOfLoveAndTruth.com.

Sunset/Bird Rookery Kayak Tour – 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. 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.

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, page 32.

YOUR BUSINESS

Contact us for special ad rates.

239-272-8155

Collier/Lee Counties

Boho Beauty Special Offers – First-time clients can have a color touchup, haircut and style for $110 and/or obtain a $10 discount for any nail service. 4450 Bonita Beach Rd SW, Unit 5, Bonita Springs. 239-771-5423. BohoBeautyBySaraHenley.com. See ad on page 23 and news brief on page 10.

monday

GROW

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daily

Max Meditation – 5:30pm. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-6929747. 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.

SWFLnaturalawakenings.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.

Vinyasa Flow – 5:30pm. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com.

wednesday Tai Chi Simple – 11am. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com.

Caloosahatchee Rising Tide Sangha’s Midweek Mindfulness – 5pm. Facilitator: Anne Louise Kracmer. 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 Somatic Yoga – 3:30pm. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com.

Vinyasa Flow – 5:30pm. Love Yoga Center, 4949 Tamiami Tr N, Ste 204, Naples. 239-692-9747.

LoveYogaCenter.com.

friday Take a Time Out: Friday Meditations – 10am and 5pm. With Maggie Stevens. Free. Zoom.

941-888-0116. CaloosahatcheeMindfulness.org.

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. See ad, page 8.

saturday 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

COLON THERAPY

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

AYURVEDA

ACUPUNCTURE CENTER OF NAPLES

CHRISTINA CARLIN, AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER

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.

AKASHIC READINGS HEART OF HEARTS AKASHIC RECORD READINGS

Certified Consultant Joanna Salerno, LMT 239-850-3217 • JoannaSalerno.com sacredlis1807@gmail.com Offering individual, couple and group gallery-style readings.

Align with your soul's purpose and discover the answers to all your deeper questions.

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

RB INSTITUTE, INC.

C. Robyn Berry, LMT, CRR, CCT, CLDT 12651 McGregor Blvd, Ste 5-502, 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.

See ad, page 9.

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.

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.

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EDUCATE. CONNECT. THRIVE.

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

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

Make an IMPACT in your community.

CALL TODAY! 239-272-8155

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Collier/Lee Counties

Specializing in hormonal management and women’s health, Dr. Moricz has more than 20 years of experience. He is experienced in hormone optimization, medical bariatrics and anti-aging therapies. See ad, page 47.

NAPLES CENTER FOR FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Rona Tagalog, ARNP 800 Goodlette Rd N, Ste 270, Naples 34102 239-649-7400 • NaplesCFM.com Rona Tagalog is a licensed, board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 15 years of experience. She provides primary and functional medicine care to all ages with a focus on body, mind and spirit.

See ad, page 47.

SWFLnaturalawakenings.com

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, anti-aging 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 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.

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 33.

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 5.

NATURAL & ORGANIC PRODUCTS

TRAVELING MASSAGE THERAPY

ANATTA

TOUGH LOVE WELLNESS

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.

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.

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

Dianne Nolan, LMT, MLD-C ToughLoveWellness.com • 239-399-0314

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.

NUTRITION D-SIGNED NUTRITION, LLC

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 31.

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 42.

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 22.

Dreams are only as useful as they turn into behaviors.

—Richard Heart

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