Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
This month, we are proud to present the 2025 Natural Living Directory for Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties—a comprehensive resource designed to connect you with the leading practitioners, businesses and holistic experts in our community. Whether you are exploring new integrative therapies, seeking nutritional guidance or striving for a more balanced lifestyle overall, this issue aims to be a year-round reference that inspires and guides you along your wellness journey.
Each practitioner and business showcased in this year’s directory holds unique expertise, from chiropractic care and integrative medicine to energy healing and financial planning. Our lineup of 2025 Wellness Dream Team Profiles, which provide an in-depth look at the dedicated professionals shaping the local, natural health landscape, begins on page 22. A section of informative Business Spotlights to keep you informed of offerings, specialties and practitioners within the region follows that on page 29. Starting on page 50, you’ll find a comprehensive section of Directory Listings which serve as a valuable guide to help you locate practitioners through category headings and detailed descriptions. Additionally, the Natural Living Glossary, beginning on page 52, provides clear definitions of key terms in holistic health.
Our March feature story is all about personalized nutrition and self-care from the inside out—an essential foundation for true well-being. To be sure, the relationship between what we consume and how we feel is profound, influencing everything from energy levels to cognitive function and overall vitality. Within these pages, you will find expert insights on mindful eating, nutrient-dense foods, spring recipes and holistic approaches that I hope empower you to make informed choices for long-term health. As the vibrant energy of spring emerges, so does the opportunity to cultivate a year of optimal health and well-being.
Curating and designing this issue has been an exciting and rewarding experience and I am truly inspired by the incredible businesses, owners and practitioners we’ve featured. Personally, I can’t wait to visit these experts myself and experience the benefits of their services firsthand. Be sure to hold onto this issue as your indispensable guide to keep handy throughout the year. And share it with friends and family, too! Plus, take advantage of the wealth of knowledge available both in print and online at our website WakeUpNaturally.com
Wishing you a year of fulfillment, zest and mind-body harmony,
P.S. I invite you to connect with us in person at the Awaken Wellness Fair on March 30. Stop by our booth and share your thoughts. We always love hearing how Natural Awakenings has supported you in living a healthier, more vibrant life!
Erica Mills
Windowsill Herb Gardening
The use of wild and cultivated herbs for medicinal and food purposes predates recorded history. It is easy to grow herbs like basil, parsley and mint at home, making them conveniently available at peak freshness and flavor with a higher nutritional content than their dried counterparts. Home gardeners can control the variety and quality of their herbs, reduce or completely eliminate the use of pesticides, and eliminate the transportation emissions and need for plastic packaging.
To start a windowsill herb garden, follow these easy steps:
• Choose a window. Pick a window that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight a day; one that faces south or southwest is best. Alternatively, use a grow light for 14 to 16 hours a day.
• Select a container. Use a container with drainage holes and a saucer to catch excess water. Place a layer of potting mix in the bottom of the container.
• Plant seeds or young plants. If using seeds, plant at the depth recommended on the seed packet. Keep the seeds moist while they germinate. Once sprouts breach the soil, thin out seedlings to avoid overcrowding. For young plants, gently remove them from their original pot, loosen the roots, plant them in the container and water immediately.
• Water and feed. Follow the recommended watering schedule for each herb. Water the potting soil, not the leaves. Drain the saucer when it fills up with excess water. Feed herbs weekly with organic plant food.
• Harvest and maintain. Harvest herbs when they are four to six inches tall. Regular harvesting encourages new growth. Cut stems from the top or prune the sides of the plant with sharp pruners. Avoid trimming more than a third of the plant’s foliage.
SilviaJansen from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
Vocal Biomarkers to Diagnose Diabetes
Researchers at the Luxembourg Institute of Health have developed a voice-based algorithm with the help of artificial intelligence that can potentially detect Type 2 diabetes. The screening analyzes subtle changes in a person’s voice, which are not usually noticeable to the human ear. This could represent an early and noninvasive diagnostic tool. Diabetes can affect the vocal cords as a result of nerve damage, thereby affecting voice quality.
The technology was tested in a study of 600 U.S. participants published in PLOS Digital Health. Researchers deemed the accuracy of the algorithm to be comparable to traditional risk assessment tools recommended by the American Diabetes Association. Next steps include refining the algorithm to detect pre-diabetes and expanding its use in other languages.
The Luxembourg researchers estimate there are 400 million undiagnosed cases of Type 2 diabetes worldwide. Without treatment, this disease can lead to serious health issues such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy, as well as higher healthcare costs and even mortality. Current screening relies on blood tests.
Benefits of Plum Blossom Acupuncture
The use of plum blossom acupuncture therapy has been documented for more than 2,000 years. It involves the use of a handle equipped with seven short needles in the shape of a plum blossom. It is commonly used in pediatric acupuncture because of its shallow penetration of the skin. Beginning in the 1950s, electric stimulation was added. Today, digital electric plum blossom acupuncture is used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin diseases like acne vulgaris, alopecia, hives, eye disorders, juvenile myopia, and impaired or dim vision in children.
The Effects of Loneliness on Mental Health
According to a recent study by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and the National Institute of Mental Health published in Nature Mental Health, three factors— loneliness, a prior psychiatric diagnosis and stress-related social distancing—were all predictors for experiencing psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The internet-based study included more than 3,600 participants that reported their mental and physical health and COVID-related circumstances every two weeks for six months during the first year of the pandemic. Those with a previous psychiatric diagnosis experienced greater psychological distress than those without such a history, supporting public health initiatives to address loneliness and social isolation to improve mental health.
Non-Opioid Pain Killer Approved
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new non-opioid pain reliever called suzetrigine to treat moderate to severe short-term pain in adults. Marketed as Journavx by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, the drug works by blocking a specific channel that transmits pain signals to the brain. After the tragedy of tens of thousands of opioid-related deaths, this non-addictive option for use after surgery or for acute pain management is a welcome alternative. Journavx was evaluated in two randomized, doubleblind trials, and was found to demonstrate a statistically significant superior reduction in pain compared to a placebo.
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Prostock-studio/CanvaPro
New Uses for Carbon Dioxide
While the world struggles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, engineers are working to find practical and economically feasible ways to capture and convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into useful products. Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology published in Nature Communications describes efficiently converting CO2 into ethylene, a chemical that is widely used in plastics and fuels.
The engineers developed new electrode materials made of micrometric copper wire woven through thin sheets of Teflon. The electrochemical process that converts CO2 into ethylene involves a waterbased solution and catalyst using the new electrode materials, which come into contact with an electric current in a device called a gas diffusion electrode. Engineers believe that their process is scalable for large conversions of CO2 into ethylene and other high-value chemical products such as methane, methanol and carbon monoxide.
Shutting Down Illegal Sea Turtle Trade
Since ancient times, humans have hunted the hawkbill sea turtle for its glossy, brown shell to make luxury items like bowls, bracelets, combs and eyeglasses. While trading in the critically endangered hawkbill and other sea turtle shells has been outlawed since 1977, such products can still be found on the black market because the goods are often confiscated in different countries from where the poaching took place.
The ShellBank program, started by the World Wildlife Fund and implemented by 28 countries, has been collecting genetic material from confiscated turtle products to trace them back to their region of origin. The program also trains law enforcement and researchers in collecting, handling and analyzing the genetic material. ShellBank co-founder Christine Madden says the goal is to use ShellBank to dismantle illegal trade in sea turtles.
Tanankorn Pilong from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Vultures on Patrol in Africa
Poaching of elephants, hippos, Cape buffalo and other wildlife has been a challenging problem in Ugandan national parks for years. With the help of scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, in Berlin, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has enlisted the help of local vultures to help fight poaching because they can spot a carcass from more than two miles away.
Twenty of the winged scavengers have been fitted with trackers connected to artificial intelligence that help interpret the birds’ movements, including circling for an extended period, preening, drinking, hopping on a carcass or battling over a carrion. Once the technology identifies a potential poaching site, the park rangers can move in to hopefully catch the poachers or dismantle their snares and traps. In the future, vulture tags may include a camera to help rangers quickly assess what killed an animal.
New U.S. Observatory in Chile
A new U.S. astronomy and astrophysics facility is expected to go online in mid-2025 on a mountaintop in Chile. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is named after the American astronomer whose work convinced scientists that dark matter is real.
Since then, scientists have determined that dark matter makes up more than 80 percent of all matter in the universe. Using the largest digital camera ever built, the observatory will scan the southern hemisphere sky for 10 years and create an ultra-wide, ultra-high-definition time-lapse movie of the sky to help scientists better understand dark energy and dark matter, create an inventory of our solar system, map the Milky Way galaxy and study objects that change position or brightness over time.
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Getty Images/CanvaPro
Paula Caracappa
The Dedicated Visionary Behind Awaken Wellness Fair’s Legacy
by Erin Lehn
For over two decades, Paula Caracappa, founder of the Awaken Wellness Fair, has been a transformative force in the wellness community. Her work is grounded in a deep, unwavering belief that healing and growth are within each individual’s power— and it is her mission to create a space where these possibilities can thrive.
Caracappa’s journey started long before the Awaken Wellness Fair became the respected, highly anticipated event it is today. A former human resources director with a passion for holistic healing, Caracappa stepped into the wellness world with the heart of a healer. As a polarity practitioner,
meditation facilitator, EFT teacher and Reiki master teacher, she intimately understands the challenges that holistic practitioners face when trying to make their work known. It’s this unique perspective that fuels the Awaken Wellness Fair, which began in 2002 with a small gathering of 42 healers in a White Plains medical office building.
The interest was electric, the energy palpable, and from that first gathering, Caracappa knew she was onto something special. “What started as a simple idea—a day of connection, healing and shared wisdom— quickly blossomed into something far greater,” she recalls. Originally conceived as “Goddess Day,” the event became a sacred space where practitioners could exchange modalities, offer insights and uplift one another in a spirit of unity. “It was a day filled with inspiration, where conversations flowed effortlessly, and an undeniable sense of possibility filled the air,” affirms Caracappa, who changed the name of the event to Awaken Wellness Fair a few years later, after receiving inquiries from men that also wanted to be involved.
Little did Caracappa know, this intimate gathering was more than just a one-time event—it was the spark that would ignite
something much bigger. The seed for the Awaken Wellness Fair had been planted, and from that moment on, it grew with purpose. Year after year, the event expanded, with at least two, but sometimes up to five, events per year. It gathered more seekers, healers and visionaries, transforming into a beloved hub for holistic wellness throughout the tri-state area.
Today, the Awaken Wellness Fair stands as a guiding light, drawing hundreds of attendees eager to explore new pathways to healing, personal growth and a deeper connection to mind, body and spirit. From its early, cozy days in The Oaks, a historic mansion in New Rochelle, to a brief stint at a White Plains convent, Caracappa’s drive to create a space for healing, connection and growth never wavered.
This spring, the Awaken Wellness Fair returns to the Westchester Marriott, in Tarrytown, where it continues to offer a vibrant platform for over 100 exhibitors, healers and speakers dedicated to helping individuals live fuller, healthier lives. “Today, more than ever before, more people are looking for non-traditional ways to get and stay healthy,” explains Caracappa. “Our speakers, vendors and presenters offer products
Paula Caracappa
and services that help people live a natural, healthy lifestyle.”
Caracappa’s vision is clear: to provide wellness seekers with the tools and resources they need to reach their fullest potential— be it through physical health, mental clarity or spiritual growth. She describes the fair as an “impactful experience” where vendors and attendees connect, share and grow, and according to Caracappa, it’s this community spirit that sets the event apart from others. “I love the people I work with,” she shares. “Some of my exhibitors have been with me for over a decade, and it’s so rewarding to witness the connections we’ve all created over the years.”
The Awaken Wellness Fair isn’t just a marketplace—it’s an invitation to explore new ways of thinking, living and being. With an inspiring mix of spiritual healers, intuitive readers and wellness advocates, the fair offers something for everyone, from those just beginning their journey of self-discovery to seasoned practitioners looking for deeper insights. This spring’s fair on March 30 will feature new exhibitors like Baltic Ambers Art, which offers unique amber jewelry from the Baltic Sea, and Rock Your Energy, a company blending quantum physics, frequencies and technology for wellness optimization.
With its rich variety of exhibitors, the Awaken Wellness Fair is the perfect place for anyone looking to deepen their connection to their well-being, all while supporting the incredible, diverse voices that make up the local wellness community.
Caracappa’s commitment to this vision remains steadfast, and as she puts it, “Our goal is to inspire individuals to live with compassion, purpose and a sense of joy, helping them navigate the challenges of life with tools that are as unique and limitless as each person.”
For more information, call 914-422-1784, email AwakenFair@gmail.com or visit AwakenFair.com. See ad, page 2.
and
LIVE NATURAL
Personalized Nutrition
Fine-Tuning the Dinner Plate
by Carrie Jackson
Targeted nutrition is emerging as one of the year’s biggest areas of growth in the field of health care. Data researchers at Statista estimate that the global personalized nutrition market will exceed $16 billion in 2025. From elite athletes to busy professionals, consumers are looking for individualized recommendations that take their lifestyles and unique physiological needs into consideration. Smart devices, artificial intelligence (AI) and comprehensive testing are helping people identify their nutritional requirements and make informed dietary choices. Greater attention is also being placed on the gut microbiome and customized supplementation. The onesize-fits-all approach to eating is dwindling.
Kerry Health and Nutrition Institute, a global food research organization, recently listed targeted nutrition in their top five trends for 2025, suggesting a greater emphasis on individual “need states” that might focus on the health status of the heart, joints, bones or gut, or on personal goals associated with sports nutrition, while nutritionists are using finely tuned supplements that cater to individual requirements. Joint and bone health benefit from anti-inflammatory compounds and improved calcium absorption, for example, while cognitive health is supported by nootropics, medicinal substances that improve thinking, learning, memory and gut-brain axis modulation. Consumers are also opting for innovative ingredients like collagen
peptides, omega-3s, amino acids, postbiotics and adaptogens to enhance their health status and optimize their fitness.
Health-Tracking Aids
Technology is making it easier to measure how our bodies are responding and performing at any given time. “Smart watches, smart rings and armband devices can track heart rate and oxygen levels, and monitor blood pressure levels. Some healthcare providers may recommend continuous glucose monitors to track blood sugar trends and fitness devices to track physical activity,” says Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of 360Girls&Women, which offers personalized nutrition plans for health improvement or maintenance.
Using AI-powered products and services, consumers have the ability to receive nutritionist-backed recommendations, monitor their progress and make adjustments based on food preferences, health goals and other variables such as age, gender and body mass index. It is a streamlined path to improving eating habits, tailoring meal plans and creating recipes that align with health objectives and personal preferences.
Dietitians Can Help
For even more personalization, AndersonHaynes notes, “A registered dietitian nutritionist can evaluate past medical history, nutrition, physical activity, age, biochemical and anthropometric measurements, laboratory data, and socioeconomic and education levels. In addition, they might perform functional medical testing that includes specialized hormone testing, a review of food intolerances and microbiome testing. About 70 to 80 percent of our immune cells are found within the gut. Studies show that the more diverse the healthy microbes are in the gut, the lower the risk of inflammation and diseases like diabetes, heart disease, dementia and certain cancers. In addition, when our gut is functioning well, it allows for proper metabolism processes to occur, like digestion and the absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat.”
While research on the gut-brain axis is still ongoing, it is becoming clearer that the nerves that send signals between the gut and the brain may be influenced by the foods we eat. Anderson-Haynes suggests, “Healthful nutrients for the microbiome may include prebiotic fiber, probiotics, omega-3s, anthocyanins [plants that are blue, violet or red] and resveratrol [a defensive substance found in the skin of plants, fruits and seeds]. Studies show that the health components in these foods positively affect mood, anxiety, depression, the immune system and the nervous system.”
Other supplementation may be necessary or advised. “While there are a variety of supplements on the market, a personalized assessment and evaluation reveal what each person may need. For example, if there is a deficiency that food alone may not be able to increase, then a vitamin or mineral supplement
will be needed,” explains Anderson-Haynes. “Symptoms of low levels of vitamin D may include fatigue, depression, muscle weakness and hair loss, and if vitamin D levels are deficient, then a supplement will be needed. If there are reports and
symptoms of anxiety and excessive stress, supplements generally recommended to support the nervous system may be ashwagandha, magnesium, vitamin C and others. There are also evidence-based herbal remedies utilized by functional medicine practitioners to support hormone imbalances.”
Anderson-Haynes encourages clients to listen to their own bodies and to prioritize nourishment at every meal. “Food is amazing. It comes in all shapes, sizes, textures and tastes. It serves as the backdrop for social engagements and helps express culture. When done right, it’s absolutely delicious. It also serves as an element of strengthening and healing to the body. No matter your eating style, if you're trying to eat more plant-based, with less to no animal foods, you're in the right place,” she says.
The Gut and a Healthy Immune System
According to Monique Ryan, an Illinois-based sports dietitian and author of Sports Nutrition for Endurance Athletes, because 70 percent of the immune system is in the gastrointestinal tract, personalized nutrition begins by getting the microbiome functioning properly. “The gut is the first line of barrier to food. If it’s been damaged or hurt, people may experience increased intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut,” she explains.
Ryan recommends food sensitivity testing to evaluate the body’s reaction to more than 175 foods. “Once we get our test results, we can create a protocol for an oligoantigenic diet, which takes out all the antigens that cause inflammation in the body. It’s a very personalized anti-inflammatory diet and targets what people are specifically sensitive to,” she says. “Anyone can go on the internet and find a generic anti-inflammatory diet, but what causes inflammation varies from person to person.”
For Ryan, all aspects of a patient’s background and lifestyle can offer pivotal clues. “I’ll sit down with each patient and take a detailed health history, including their nutrition background. Genetics also factor into overall nutrition, so we’ll look at family history and any
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BLUE ROCK SCHOOL
and Forest Play Summer Program Independent K-8 serving the Lower Hudson Valley
hereditary diseases. I’ll analyze their most recent bloodwork and look at what they typically eat and what their activity levels are,” she attests. “The more I learn about a patient, the better I can personalize a plan based on their specific needs and not just their test results.”
Ideally, nutrients are supplied through food, but some supplements may be necessary based on the patient’s blood levels. “Vitamin D, which plays a key role in immune system health, is not readily supplied by food, so most people should be taking it in supplement form,” Ryan says. “I also generally recommend a probiotic and prebiotic to support gut health. Other supplements are highly personal and vary based on the patient’s individual needs.”
Ryan urges clients to choose whole, fiberrich foods with no added chemicals. “Simple, minimally processed foods are generally the most nutritious and efficient for the body to process. So, an almond milk that has almonds, water and maybe salt is going to be better for the body than one with multiple additives and chemical ingredients,” she explains.
Eating for Peak Performance
Ryan also works with high-level athletes. For them, personalized nutrition helps to ensure they are performing at peak levels. “Many athletes have Garmin or Polar monitors that measure their caloric output. Combined with body composition tests, these give us an overview of their metabolic and energy needs,” she says. “From there, we still have to tailor their nutrition plan for that day’s specific training. They might burn 500 additional calories one day and 1,000 in another. It depends on the athlete’s metabolism, their particular sport and what their specific training protocol is for that day. It’s not one-size-fits-all or eating the same thing every day.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Foodie Guide
Farmers Markets
HUDSON VALLEY REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET
Sundays, 10am-2pm 15 Mount Ebo Rd. South, Brewster HudsonValleyFarmers Market.org
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 890 South Lake Blvd., Mahopac 845-621-2655
BOKMahopac.com
Sip Your Way to Better Health with Herbal Nutritive Infusions
by Alyssa Mancini
Nutritive infusions offer us an easy, affordable, and powerful way to nourish our bodies. These herbal infusions are made by steeping nutrient-rich herbs in hot water for several hours, extracting essential vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds. Unlike regular teas, which tend to be lighter in flavor and nutrients, nutritive infusions provide us a more concentrated and bioavailable source of nourishment that’s easily absorbed by the body.
Best Herbs for Nutritive Infusions
Not all herbs are suitable for long infusions, but some are particularly rich in nutrients. Here are a few top choices:
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Known for supporting energy, kidney health and adrenal function, nettle is packed with calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins A and C.
Oatstraw (Avena sativa): Excellent for calming the nervous system, oatstraw provides calcium, magnesium and silica. A cup of oatstraw infusion offers around 300 milligrams of bioavailable calcium, making it beneficial for bone health.
Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus): Often used to support women’s health—especially menstrual health—red raspberry leaf is rich in calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamins B and C.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Great for detoxification, red clover is high in calcium, chromium and magnesium, promoting overall wellness.
Why Nutritive Infusions Are Effective
Nutritive infusions stand out for their bioavailability—the nutrients are released in a form that’s gentle on the digestive system and easy to absorb. Additionally, nutritive infusions offer a balanced nutrient profile. The combination of complementary nutrients, like calcium with magnesium and silica in oatstraw, enhances our ability to absorb and use them effectively. This is far more efficient than taking isolated supplements, which may not provide all the nutrients we need for proper assimilation.
Cost-Effective and Sustainable
Nutritive infusions are not only beneficial for our health, but also for our wallet. Store-bought supplements can be expensive, but we can make several quarts of nutrient-rich infusion for a fraction of the cost by using dried herbs— especially when purchased in bulk. Over time, this makes infusions a cost-effective, natural and sustainable way to support health.
How to Make a Nutritive Infusion
Making a nutritive infusion is simple and relaxing. Here’s how to can prepare one:
Ingredients:
1 oz of dried nutritive herbs (choose some favorites)
4 cups of boiling water
Instructions:
Select Herbs: Pick herbs based on one’s health goals and personal preferences.
Measure and Combine: Add 1 ounce of our chosen herbs to a quart-sized jar.
Boil the Water: Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil.
Pour and Steep: Pour the boiling water over the herbs, cover with a lid and let it steep for at least 4 hours or overnight for a stronger infusion.
Strain and Enjoy: Strain out the herbs and enjoy the infusion hot or cold throughout the day. Some people prefer iced infusions, which are refreshing and nutrient-packed.
Storage: Store any leftover infusion in the fridge for up to three days. Discard if it smells rancid.
Reuse the Herbs: The best part is we can reuse the same herbs for a second batch. The first steep extracts plenty of vitamins and minerals, so 1 ounce of herbs can make 2 quarts of nutrient-rich infusion.
Nutritive infusions are a simple and effective way to provide our bodies with the essential nutrients it needs. Whether we want to support bone health, calm the nervous system or detoxify the body, these infusions are an affordable and sustainable addition to anyone’s routine. Sip to better health and enjoy the benefits of whole plant nutrition with every cup.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking herbal supplements.
Alyssa Mancini is a clinical herbalist and the owner of Herbs Love And Yoga, in Sandy Hook, CT. For more information about using herbs to support health, email Info@HerbsLoveAnd Yoga.com or visit HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.
Nourish and Reset
Anti-Inflammatory Recipes
by Rev. Dr. Jessica Chichester
As winter transitions into spring, March presents an ideal opportunity to refresh, reset and nourish the body with seasonal foods that promote healing from the inside out. The lingering chill of early spring calls for warming, grounding meals, while the promise of new beginnings invites the inclusion of vibrant, energizing ingredients that support overall well-being. This month, focusing on anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting and digestion-supportive foods can help the body adapt to seasonal changes, reduce bloating and increase energy levels.
Two simple yet powerful recipes—Golden Turmeric Ginger Soup and Matcha Chia Pudding with Berries—provide warmth, nourishment and sustained energy throughout the day. The soup, infused with turmeric, ginger and garlic, is packed with anti-inflammatory properties to soothe digestion, support immunity, and promote gut health. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture while offering healthy fats for optimal nutrient absorption, and chickpeas or lentils provide plant-based protein for lasting satiety. This nutrient-dense meal is perfect for cozy evenings or as a midday reset.
For a lighter, refreshing option, the Matcha Chia Pudding with Berries is a powerhouse of antioxidants, fiber and brain-boosting nutrients. Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, is rich in EGCG, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that enhances focus and energy without the jitters of coffee. Chia seeds provide omega-3s and fiber, supporting digestion and hormonal balance. Combined with cinnamon, vanilla and fresh berries, this pudding is an easy, prepahead meal that promotes fullness and sustained energy.
Whether for a warming meal to combat lingering cold or a light, nourishing snack, these recipes offer an easy way to support the body’s natural detoxification and renewal this month. Enjoy the healing benefits of whole foods and embrace the transition into spring with vibrance and vitality.
MATCHA CHIA PUDDING WITH BERRIES (Anti-Inflammatory and Energizing)
This pudding is energizing, easy to prepare and great for busy mornings. It is refreshing, nutrient-packed and a perfect anti-inflammatory breakfast or snack. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, and chia seeds provide omega-3s to fight inflammation and support brain health.
1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
3 Tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp ceremonial-grade matcha powder
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tbsp maple syrup (or raw honey)
¼ tsp cinnamon (anti-inflammatory)
½ cup fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries or strawberries)
1 Tbsp crushed walnuts or hemp seeds (optional for extra omega-3s)
Mix the base: In a bowl or jar, whisk together almond milk, matcha, vanilla, maple syrup and cinnamon until smooth.
Add chia seeds: Stir in chia seeds and mix well. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
Refrigerate and set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Top and enjoy: Before serving, stir well and top with fresh berries, crushed walnuts or hemp seeds for extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
This is a great recipe because matcha is high in EGCG, a powerful antioxidant that fights inflammation; chia seeds provide omega-3s and fiber for gut and brain health; cinnamon and berries help stabilize blood sugar and reduce inflammation; and walnuts/hemp seeds add extra anti-inflammatory fats.
Credit: Rev. Dr. Jessica
Chichester
GOLDEN TURMERIC GINGER SOUP
(Anti-Inflammatory and Gut Healing)
This soup is warming, nourishing and perfect for dinner. It supports digestion, helps reduce inflammation and boosts immunity. Turmeric, ginger and garlic work synergistically to fight inflammation, while coconut milk adds a creamy, nourishing touch and healthy fats.
1 Tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch fresh ginger, grated
1-inch fresh turmeric, grated (or
1 tsp ground turmeric)
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
4 cups vegetable broth (or bone broth for extra gut support)
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 medium sweet potato or carrot, chopped
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 cup cooked lentils or chickpeas (for protein)
Juice of ½ lemon
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Sauté aromatics: In a pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and ginger. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
Add spices and vegetables: Stir in turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt and black pepper. Add sweet potato (or carrot) and cauliflower. Stir to coat with spices.
Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, until veggies are tender.
Blend and finish: Stir in coconut milk and cooked lentils/chickpeas. Simmer for another 5 minutes. If you prefer a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.
Serve and enjoy: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
This is a great recipe because turmeric and ginger reduce inflammation and boost immunity; coconut milk and broth support digestion; lentils and chickpeas provide plant-based protein;and lemon and fresh herbs add detoxifying benefits.
Rev. Dr. Jessica Chichester, a visionary and the founder and CEO of Haute Healing Oasis, brings more than 25 years of experience in health, wellness and spiritual science to her role. An acclaimed Hall of Fame athlete and a master conduit in energy medicine and healing, she employs ancient techniques to instruct individuals on energy transmutation. Beyond her extensive background, Chichester is also a food archaeologist gearing up to release an allergen-friendly cookbook. She organizes international psychedelic retreats for healing. For more information, call 203-595-5304 or visit HauteHealingOasis.com.
Failure is success if we learn from it.
—Malcolm Forbes
Credit:
Rev.
Dr. Jessica Chichester
NATURAL LIVING WELLNESS DREAM TEAM PROFILES
The following practitioners and businesses are ready to help you achieve your health and wellness goals in 2025.
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Balancing 4 Life is a holistic, restorative wellness center, offering non-invasive energetic solutions for natural healing.
What drew you to this profession?
I discovered the relationship between energetic flow and our conscious ability to direct energy over 25 years ago while providing occupational therapy services to autistic children. Realizing energy was the foundation of all life changed my perspective toward health and wellness. I now teach personal energy management skills to all clients as part of their reiki sessions to enhance their ability to transform on all levels.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
Balancing 4 Life offers Jikiden Reiki, the original intuitive healing teachings from Japan without any Western influence. This unaltered form of reiki teaches energy discernment as students learn to feel energy and identify problem areas. Energetic counseling accompanies all private healing sessions, aiding clients’ personal awareness and growth.
NATURAL LIVING
DIRECTORY 2025
NATURAL LIVING
DIRECTORY INDEX
Wellness Dream Team Profiles: 22-28
Business Spotlights: 29-31
Directory Listings: 50-62
Natural Living Glossary: 52-63
What should a person expect from working with you?
An initial consultation conducted on the first visit reveals energetic patterns and influences from childhood that may underlie current health imbalances. Jikiden Reiki identifies and treats areas of energy stagnation. Clients experience a deep state of relaxation and often fall asleep. As the autonomic nervous system is reset for healing, clients experience relief from bodily pains and inflammation. A sense of tranquility arises as the body heals naturally. All sessions conclude with an energy integration technique leaving clients feeling lighter, grounded and refreshed.
What do you have planned for 2025?
Enjoy healing programs with sound baths and drumming circles. Develop your personal growth through medicine wheel teachings, astrology topics and sacred circles. Receive guidance with monthly group psychic readings. Participate in workshops to learn Jikiden Reiki and develop your psychic and clairvoyant abilities. Consider private reiki and shamanic healing sessions, Akashic Record readings, past life regression, astrology and tarot card readings and BEMER therapy by appointment.
Anything else our readers should know?
BEMER, a non-invasive, vascular care, FDA-registered device offers improved microcirculation for better health and well-being. Use BEMER in combination with reiki treatments or as a standalone treatment. Make Wellness, a new company offering six natural, plant-based, precision, bio-active peptides that can be taken orally to improve fitness, energy level and focus is our newest product. See ad, page 21.
We offer a holistic/biological approach to general dentistry including reconstructive/cosmetic dentistry, periodontal treatments, implant/oral surgery, neuromuscular dentistry and myofunctional therapy.
What drew you to this profession?
After becoming a dentist in 1978, I suffered from mercury toxicity and subsequently started exploring alternative methods for my own treatment. By 1983, I started transitioning my practice to offer more holistic methods to treat our patients. Since then, my thirst for knowledge has stayed with me over the years and has resulted in an ever-expanding expertise in dentistry and the mouth-body connection. I’m now known as an authority on holistic dental health care. Patients come from all over Putnam County, Westchester County and beyond (even from Hawaii) to seek our holistic approach to dental care.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
The Center for Holistic Dentistry provides an innovative approach to your dental care. From mercury-free dentistry to the use of biocompatible materials, we treat your mouth with the whole body in mind.
What should a person expect from working with you?
Attentive and gentle care from an expert doctor with over 40 years of experience in holistic dentistry. Our goal is to create a positive experience for all of our patients and have them actually look forward to going to the dentist!
What do you have planned for 2025?
To continue to provide our current and prospective patients with comprehensive dental wellness care.
Anything else our readers should know?
Dental care is just as important as medical care. Infections and decay in the mouth can affect your heart and other organs, leading to further disease. Please make sure you visit your dentist routinely for exams and cleanings! See ad, page 3.
Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Clinic
DR. SOMESH KAUSHIK, ND, BAMS, MPH, E-RYT-500 Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Physician Yellow Monkey Village, 792 Rte. 35, Cross River 914-875-9088 (clinic M-F) • 646-670-6725 (telemedicine) DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com • DrKaushik.com
Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Clinic is a practice that combines the ancient art of Ayurvedic healing with the modern, science-based principles of naturopathy to create a holistic path to wellness. Services include panchakarma therapy, hydrotherapy, vitamins, herbal supplements, homeopathy, diet and nutritional counseling, lifestyle management, support for emotional well-being, detoxification, support for food sensitivity, parasite elimination, heavy metal detox, therapeutic yoga, anti-aging programs, pediatrics, pain management, and women’s and men’s health.
What drew you to this profession?
Ayurveda understands that the body consists of the five major natural elements: air, fire, water, earth and space/ether. This understanding underlies the philosophy that we are part of nature—not separate—and that keeping these elements in balance is the key to health.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
The centuries-old healing art of Ayurveda, coupled with scientifically proven modern naturopathic research, blends the wisdom of the past with the knowledge of the present to recreate balance and harmony in the body. That’s the basis of health.
What should someone expect from working with you?
Ayurveda recognizes that each individual is unique. After an indepth analysis of your situation based on your body constitution, treatment options are discussed. Options may consist of supplement, diet and lifestyle recommendations, along with possible detox protocols, such as panchakarma and ozone therapy.
What do you have planned for 2025?
We will be offering a certification course for Ayurvedic Health Counselor in the spring and fall. To find out more, contact DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com. We’re also offering a free online lecture series. Held monthly, Eating in Harmony with Nature meets every second Tuesday. To register, visit PawlingFreeLibrary.org.
Anything else our readers should know?
We follow Ayurveda’s principles, recognizing that although we are all composed of the five major elements found in nature, these elements are uniquely combined in each of us. When they are out of balance, illness or disease results. Ayurveda can restore that balance, boost the immune system and bring the body back into its natural state of health by treating the whole person—body, mind and spirit—not just the symptoms. See ad, page 11.
Earth Angels Veterinary Hospital
DR. ALEXANDRA BARRIENTOS, OWNER
44 Saint Nicholas Rd., Wappingers Falls 845-227-7297 • Staff@EarthAngelsVet.com EarthAngelsVet.com
Earth Angels is a local, family-owned and -operated integrative veterinary hospital with services that include surgery, dentistry, holistic protocols with Dr. Barrientos in conjunction with our pain center that features laser therapy, acupuncture, CBDs, dog/cat boarding and more.
What drew you to this profession?
I’ve wanted to become a veterinarian since the age of 5. Caring for animals and improving upon the important human/animal bond quickly became my purpose in life, and becoming a veterinarian was the best way to achieve my goal.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? Twenty-five years of practicing holistic medicine gives me the experience as a veterinarian that sets our hospital apart from others with a uniqueness when it comes to knowledge of alternative modalities. My conventional training at Cornell University, combined with all my years of working alongside holistic veterinarians, makes our hospital a unique resource for pet owners.
What should a person expect from working with you?
We strive to offer all effective options, alternative and conventional, for the treatment of various ailments from birth through senior care. We also aim to educate our clients, so they have the ability to choose what best suits them and their furry family members.
What do you have planned for 2025?
We are excited about the tremendous benefits that liquid biopsy, a blood test that can detect many forms of cancer, has provided our patients in the past few months and look forward to helping many more in 2025. We will also be utilizing the latest in stem cell therapy technology and completing upgrades to our dog boarding facility.
Lorraine Hughes specializes in herbal medicine and nutrition. She offers comprehensive wellness consultations using assessment techniques based in Traditional Chinese Medicine to provide each person with their own unique treatment plan. She also offers stressreduction services, including reiki, reflexology, acupoint aromatherapy and qigong (private and group classes).
What drew you to this profession?
Over 25 years ago, I embarked upon my own health journey. During this process, I was fortunate to meet with naturopaths and practitioners of Chinese medicine, to which I owe a debt of gratitude. Nature heals, and this is my way of paying it forward.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
I feel that my approach is unique in that I utilize assessment techniques based in Chinese medicine, correlating the client’s “patterns” in an East-West approach, including lifestyle, diet, detoxification, movement and breath work. I am also a Chinese and Western custom herbal formulator, after seeing them in a consultation.
What should someone expect from working with you?
They should expect an open and honest discussion concerning their health and wellness goals. Each person will determine their own progression to vibrant health based upon taking ownership of their journey by making the changes they need to make. Most people are experiencing chronic illness, and they must acknowledge that this did not evolve overnight. With that said, returning to vital health is a process in which the person must be patient, kind (to themselves) and exert discipline to regain resilience. I will be there to guide them along the way.
What changes do you have planned for 2025?
I will continue to teach in-person classes/workshops this year, including qigong, five elements applicable to each season, reflexology and herbal medicine.
Anything else our readers should know?
It is so critical and essential that the general public embrace the healing power of nature by connecting to their inner nature, their original healer; specifically, through plant medicines and healing philosophies that have been practiced for over 2,000 to 5,000 years. Are you ready to embark on your path to wellness?
Joy Matalon offers many healing services, including CranioSacral Therapy, Somato-Emotional Release, Process Acupressure, Swedish and medical massage. As a certified provider of these modalities, she helps with anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injuries, migraines, back and neck pain, tinnitus, TMJ, vertigo, autoimmune disorders and ADHD, among other conditions.
What drew you to this profession?
My journey began over 35 years ago when I became certified in a form of body-centered meditation that allowed me to move through my own anxiety with grace. I discovered how softly shifting our approach toward ourselves creates insight and healing.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
As a practitioner in the healing arts, everything I have ever learned effects how I work. I’m in a meditative state that allows me to follow the way of the person I’m with. I don’t follow a routine, I allow my whole being to “listen in” to the person on the table, allowing my intuition to guide my hands. Together with my client we discover what is needed in the moment.
What should someone expect from working with you?
Adults typically experience a physically connected meditation whereby the central nervous system is supported, alleviating stress, trauma and physical restrictions. CranioSacral Therapy is a handson way to assist the process of developing intimacy with parts of ourselves that, through stress or trauma, have become unconscious. It is a gentle method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the craniosacral system, comprising the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Releasing [such] restrictions enhances the functioning of the central nervous system, helping to eliminate pain and stress while strengthening the immune system.
What changes do you have planned for 2025?
In 2025, I will be offering one-hour sessions for children and adults. I will also be incorporating Polarity therapy.
Anything else our readers should know?
Clients are treated in a nonjudgmental and unconditionally loving, sacred space that creates safety, so you can unwind and connect deeply with yourself.
495 Central Park Ave., Ste. 301, Scarsdale 914-874-1177 • Support@DrSlotnick.com DrSlotnick.com
Dr. Samantha Slotnick takes a holistic approach to vision care, for all ages. She and the entire team at Mind-Body-World Optometry help patients maximize their natural ability to see with clarity, comfort, and open awareness for space. Her practice specializes in vision therapy and rehabilitation for a broad range of vision problems which interfere with reading, learning, attention, performance and efficiency. They facilitate an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
What drew you to this profession?
I was “born” to do this work, with personal challenges interfering with my binocular vision. Through vision therapy (VT), I retrained my brain to coordinate my eyes, and enhanced my ability to process visual and spatial information.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
I bring a unique blend of knowledge and experience to the art and science of behavioral optometry. I am a sought-after lecturer, renowned for my communication skills and ability to relate personal habits and patterns to people’s use of their visual systems.
What should someone expect from working with you?
I have a great facility in connecting with children and “children of all ages.” Patients are often surprised by the natural positive boost in reading comprehension and efficiency at work/school which comes along with the functional benefits of therapeutically designed glasses. Alleviation of stress in the head, neck and eyes naturally redistributes energy for cognitive processing. Many of our patients are also benefiting from lenses which improve posture, gait and freedom of movement (myself included!).
What do you have planned for 2025?
After 11 years in Westchester, we have been blessed to witness the rewarding long-term impacts of vision therapy on many of our patients’ educational trajectory. We are striving towards greater community education, so that we may reach more children whose vision problems interfere with their ability to read, learn and attend with comfort and ease. We are delighted to share my children’s book, But MOMMY, I can SEE!, as one such educational tool.
Anything else our readers should know?
Vision is our means of touching what lies beyond our grasp. Who we are shapes our view of the world, our use of our vision and our outlook for the future. Behavioral optometry provides each individual with a personalized opportunity for self-evaluation, growth and change, with impacts extending far beyond the visual process. “You can indeed ‘Envision Your World!’” See ad, page 35.
The Office of Michael Wald
DR. MICHAEL WALD, DC DIETITIAN • BOARD CERTIFIED NUTRITIONIST
29 King St., 2nd Fl., Chappaqua 914-552-1442 • Info@BlooDetective.com DrMichaelWald.com
Dr. Wald is nicknamed “the blood detective” for developing a lab interpretation software that nutritionally interprets large amount of lab data. He began as doctor of chiropractic, then gained a master’s degree and board certifications in nutrition. Among the most qualified nutritional doctors, Wald offers a range of blood tests, hyperbaric, low-temperature sauna, non-radiation bone density and other advanced tests.
What drew you to this profession?
My father was a nutritionist and chiropractor, and I witnessed over many years how he helped so many people. I was hooked! My father also managed my diagnosis (at 18 years old) of multiple sclerosis, and at age 57 I run marathons, lift weights and have no physical limitations, without meds!
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
I might be considered different mainly because of my development of the BloodDetective software and approach to determining healing plans for my patients. It helps me interpret large amounts of lab data quickly and accurately by comparing a patient’s test results not merely to those of average people, but also to those of healthy people—often uncovering many hidden health problems.
What should someone expect from working with you?
Those that work with me will soon see that I can effectively provide my patients with my full attention and BloodDetective approach. I strive to develop doable health plans targeted to each person’s unique needs.
What do you have planned for 2025?
My goals include publishing three books: Long Covid & Natural Solutions, the Dangers of Alcohol & Other Toxins and Dementia Dilemma - how to prevent and treat memory loss naturally.
Anything else our readers should know?
Integrating nutrition based upon your biochemistry allows for real healing to take place. Incorporating how to get and stay healthy is another challenge that is possible for anyone with the right support structure and healing intentions carefully incorporated into your life. Helping people make this happen is my number one intention. See ad, page 43.
Quantum Healing & Wellness utilizes a natural approach to restoring balance. Located in Bedford Hills, Quantum Healing & Wellness integrates advanced wellness technologies with natural healing practices. The center focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease rather than merely treating symptoms. Services include the Energy Enhancement System (EES), an active White Himalayan Salt Room, an Infrared Sauna with Red Light Therapy, Bio-Resonance Quantum Body Scanning (AO Scan), Microcirculation Treatment including BEMER and AVACEN Therapy, and BrainTap for stress reduction and mental clarity.
What drew you to this profession?
After earning a Doctorate in Pharmacy and working in the pharmaceutical industry for 27 years, I saw firsthand how conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management rather than the underlying causes of illness. My journey into holistic healing began when I discovered quantum wellness technologies like the EES, AO Scan and BEMER Therapy. I realized true healing comes from correcting imbalances in the body rather than relying solely on medications. This inspired me to become a Natural Health Practitioner.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? Unlike conventional health care, I take a root-cause approach to healing. The AO Scan assesses 12 major body systems, including food sensitivities, blood analysis, chakras and meridians, gastrointestinal function, nutritional analysis, toxicities, genetic markers, hormonal and thyroid health, immune system function, liver and gallbladder function, allergies and inflammation and pathogens. It also detects emotional imbalances and provides personalized sound therapy frequencies to restore mental and emotional well-being.
What should a person expect from working with you?
Each consultation starts with an AO Scan assessment, which identifies hidden imbalances affecting overall health. Based on results, I craft a personalized healing plan, incorporating EES, BEMER Therapy, detoxification and energy balancing. Clients often leave feeling more empowered to take control of their health—without pharmaceuticals or invasive treatments.
What do you have planned for 2025?
I plan to expand bio-hacking and root-cause healing offerings, advance research in frequency medicine, and enhance corporate wellness programs. My mission is to help individuals achieve lasting health by addressing the root cause of disease. See ad, page 16.
At Quit with Quinn, Stephen Quinn helps people overcome alcohol, drugs, smoking and sugar addictions, achieve weight loss, and overcome other unwanted habits. His treatment programs are simple and natural, with a 90 percent success rate and near-immediate results. The treatments involve a combination of coaching and energetic/spiritual healing.
What drew you to this profession?
Over 30 years ago my life went through an initial spiritual awakening that that led directly to the work I do today. In 1995 I began working with healing forces and saw how incredibly powerful they are in transforming people’s lives. I began practicing in the year 2000, becoming more and more effective at helping people overcome addictions, heal physically (and on many other levels) and progress in their spiritual development. Helping people is my way of giving back to God.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
My work is very different from traditional addiction cessation assistance. I deal on the level of energies and have become skilled at the application of healing energies that restore a person to proper balance and actually remove the energies of an addiction. This results in a tangible, sustained feeling that the addiction is simply gone. The results come fast and don’t involve a stay in a treatment facility.
What should a person expect from working with you?
When you come, ready to quit, and begin with the treatments, you can expect a far easier journey to overcome your addiction. It feels like being power-assisted and graced as you quit. Cravings disappear or are dramatically reduced, which is a major help in being able to quit and stay that way.
What do you have planned for 2025?
In 2025 I’ll be letting people know about another dimension of my work which is healing for all sorts of things besides addictions. This will come with an additional website. It’s work that I’ve been doing all along. As time passes, all of the healings—for addictions and all else—have been getting more and more powerful and effective and I want people to have better access to them.
Anything else our readers should know?
Change can happen quickly and you can have the life you want! It can be done alone, but people usually negate their own best intentions. At Quit with Quinn, my expertise is transferring healing forces that can dispatch a person’s problem resulting in real, sustained change.
On a different note: the times we are in are more powerful spiritually than ever before. And this is just the beginning. People can go off the rails faster than ever, but they can also improve their lives and develop spiritually faster than ever. See ad, page 42.
Reiki Fusion
CYNTHIA M. CHASE, FOUNDER AND OWNER 1 Abbey Pl., Yonkers
Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Reiki Master Cynthia Chase offers reiki sessions and reiki certification for levels I and II and master level at her integrative practice. Cynthia’s 30year background as a psycho-spiritual therapist enriches the offerings. She has integrated her psychoanalytic background with energy healing in a unique practice called Reiki Fusion.
What drew you to this profession?
My own near-death experience many years ago catapulted me to an understanding that we are spiritual energy beings in a physical body. I understood that the energy that underlies our essence can be brought to a higher vibration for healing.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
I combine more than 30 years of psychotherapy experience with my training as an energy healer reiki master. I founded an integrative practice, Reiki Fusion, honoring the wisdom and healing power within us all.
What should someone expect from working with you?
The feeling of empowerment! Through my guidance, the seeker will find their way to an amazing wisdom and healing capacity that has been within us all along. Energy blocks, when liberated, unleash unlimited potential for manifestation. When we know we are energetic beings in a physical body—divine embodied beings, everything changes. Everything!
What changes do you have planned for 2025?
I’m excited to announce that this is the year my book is coming out. You may pre-order the book Celestial Lessons: A Healer’s Journey to the Light and Back by emailing CynthiaMChaseBook.com. It is the story of my near-death experience, and in it, I share what I learned in the light and outline the gifts that I received. You don’t have to have a near-death or out-of-body experience to be able to move into a joyous wisdom state. The principles outlined in my book will help you reach balance, healing and the integration of your spiritual and physical self. On Mar. 30, I will be giving a talk about the book at the Awaken Wellness Fair being held at the Marriott, in Tarrytown. I will also be offering mini-energy diagnostic and healing sessions free of charge at the event! Early bird general admission is $20 for the whole day, which also includes my talk.
Anything else our readers should know?
The practices shared in Celestial Lessons complement both private healing sessions and reiki training, creating a comprehensive pathway for your spiritual development. Whether through the book’s multimedia guidance, one-on-one healing work or reiki certification classes, I’m honored to support your journey of awakening.
SearchLight Medical offers medical acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, reiki, ONDAMED biofeedback therapy, AcuGraph qi analysis, Jade Vitality mat heat therapy, Blood Energy Treatment (BET), GunaLight Qi Infusions, Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture System for face and neck, and Mei Zen Abdominal Acupuncture for fertility or weight loss.
What drew you to this profession?
After more than 30 years in traditional Western medicine, I wanted to treat my patients in a more natural way, without the use of pharmaceutical or nutraceutical remedies. I’ve always believed that all people have the ability to heal when their qi energy is balanced and flowing freely within their body.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession?
I combine my Western and Eastern knowledge to plan a course of treatment that is specific and unique for each patient. Working one on one, I become a partner with my patient to achieve long-lasting deep healing.
What should someone expect from working with you?
An extremely high level of dedication to helping my patients achieve better health and wellness, whether the illness is acute or chronic. My passion has always been to find ways to heal illnesses without the need for any kind of medication—prescription or natural supplements.
What do you have planned for 2025?
For 2025, I am very excited to announce that ONDAMED has undergone a major upgrade to the hardware and applicators. These upgrades amplify the effectiveness of the therapeutic impulses that are the basis of ONDAMED’s healing ability. This means the treatment can deliver more effective therapy that can lead to improved patient outcomes and potentially quicker healing times. In addition, I will continue to offer GunaLight which is a non-invasive treatment that gives an infusion of qi energy directly into the energy meridians of the body. Also, Jade Vitality Mat treatments have become a wonderful modality for relaxation that relieve stress and removes blockages in your qi energy flow.
Anything else our readers should know?
The best results are achieved when you’re willing to devote time to allowing your body to heal on its own timetable. Energy work is not a quick fix. It is very important to understand that a problem that has been going on for a long time is not going to be resolved with only a few treatments. To get the most benefit from any energy treatment, it should be done on a regular basis and not only when you have a health concern. See ad, page 8.
Yoga in the Adirondacks is a yoga farm shala nestled in the Adirondack Forest Preserve in upstate New York. It is privately owned with over 300 acres, nurturing miniature donkeys, sheep, ducks and chickens. The renovated 1905 farmhouse creates safe space for our seasonal yoga retreats, workshops and events, where yoga embraces nature. Young Living Essential Oils, our own Divine Maple Syrup and organic chicken and duck eggs are available for sale when available. Our yoga studio practice schedule is listed on our website. Stay tuned for our new Art Studio schedule. Gift certificates are available.
What drew you to this profession?
I do love teaching yoga, knowing it’s all in the practice. Through trust, belief and a power grander than I can imagine, I was drawn to this profession. It is a practice of getting out of my own way—a union to you.
How does your work differ from that of others in your profession? I am a teacher of no “wrongs” or “rights.” As a teacher, I know I am always a student. My practice as a yoga teacher becomes a bridge to yoga therapy. I feel immense gratitude to carry this bridge of yogic knowledge to support another through self-empowerment. The body knows. Are we listening? Welcome to yoga.
What should someone expect from working with you?
Working together through the practice of yoga, we will open doors and shine your light to remember this beautiful human journey with all the opportunities and challenges that present themselves. You are enough. You are a child of source.
What do you have planned for 2025?
This year’s signature seasonal retreats: Our Fall into Winter retreat (January 17 to 19) was a magical weekend of refreshing rejuvenation. Our Spring Renewal retreat will take place March 14 to 16. The Spring into Summer retreat will be from June 27 to 29 and the Autumn Transformation retreat is coming up September 26 to 28. Our renovated art studio will be offering yoga and art workshops and much more. Stay tuned for our 10-year anniversary celebration in September.
Anything else our readers should know?
If you are considering a yoga practice and don’t know where to start, give me a call, text me or send me an email. The practice speaks for itself. Are you listening? Meet yourself where you are.
NATURAL LIVING BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
Elevate Your Vitality With Premium Products From CBD Live Natural
In operation since 2015, CBD Live Natural, in Bedford Hills, New York, carries oil tinctures, capsules, gummies, candles, edibles and pet products from the CBD Living brand, in addition to its own in-house line of vast CBD products. Owner Marcie Manfredonia stands behind the excellence of her products and the way they are sourced, noting that the higher the quality of CBD, the better benefits customers can expect. “Organic growing methods use natural pest and disease control, as well as techniques like crop rotation. This improves the quality of the plants, and it helps the Earth, too,” she explains.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in cannabis, yet it is derived directly from the hemp plant itself and doesn’t contain any tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), so it is not intoxicating or psychotropic. CBD can be formulated into oils, capsules, tinctures, extracts, food items, beauty products and more. Clinical research indicates that CBD is effective at treating epilepsy. Anecdotal evidence suggests it can help with a variety of other conditions.
According to Manfredonia, the CBD found in the company’s products is derived from hemp and has less than 3 percent THC, the primary psychoactive component that would produce a high. For CBD to be the most effective, Manfredonia offers the following advice: “When taking CBD products, it is very important that you are consistent. In order to see results faster, be sure to speak to someone knowledgeable, so that they can recommend the right dosage for you, as well as how often you should take the products.”
Location: 720 N. Bedford Rd., Bedford Hills. For more information, call 914-705-1111, email Info@CBDLiveNatural.com or visit CBDLiveNatural.com. See ad, page 13.
Combining Innovative and Proven Healing Strategies to Enhance Well-Being
Abbruzzese Wellness, located in Briarcliff Manor, is a premier chiropractic and wellness center dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve optimal health through natural, noninvasive care. Founded by Dr. Bob Abbruzzese in 1985, the practice specializes in NetworkSpinal Care—an advanced technique designed to enhance spinal-neural integrity—promoting healing and overall well-being. Abbruzzese’s holistic approach supports practice members of all ages, from active professionals to families, seeking a gentle, holistic chiropractic care.
Beyond chiropractic care, Abbruzzese Wellness provides a doctorsupervised weight loss program that emphasizes real, whole foods. Thought this six-week plan that involves no shakes, special diets, or exercise requirements, participants typically lose 20 to 30 pounds while developing sustainable healthy life long habits.
The practice also offers empowering workshops covering topics like stress management, personal growth and wellness strategies. Their Infinite Wellness Program, a cutting-edge system based on Dr. Donald Epstein’s methodologies, is helping practice members release old patterns, increase flexibility, and unlock new levels of well-being.
With a supportive, welcoming environment, flexible payment plans and a commitment to empowering individuals, Abbruzzese Wellness is dedicated to helping members unlock their full potential for health and happiness.
Location: 520 N. State Rd., Briarcliff Manor. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 914-762-8800 or visit WellnessIsTheWay.net.
Marcie Manfredonia
Dr. Bob Abbruzzese
Unlocking Wellness by Nurturing Gut Health
Louise Beach is an integrative nutritionist who prioritizes the care and tending of the gut microbiome with all her clients, whether or not their issues are gastrointestinal. “The most farreaching thing we can do for our health is to improve the health of our gut,” she states.
Beach’s fascination with the deeper causation behind illness led to her extensive study at The Microbiome Restoration Center, culminating in her unique credential as a Certified Microbiome Analyst. Since founding her practice in 2018, she has helped many clients with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) obtain at-home breath tests and resolve their symptoms through the strategic implementation of lesserknown herbal antimicrobials, prebiotics and probiotics, along with diet and lifestyle.
Beach incorporates cutting-edge research in her work, offering those seeking microbiome restoration or optimization the newest type of stool assessments that provide a comprehensive look at the gut ecosystem. Meeting with clients to explain the test results, she provides a customized list of interventions such as diet, herbs, supplements and lifestyle that are scientifically shown to improve the balance and diversity of the microbiome.
In her view, “this ability to manipulate our gut ecosystem—moving it towards health and away from disease by ‘feeding’ up the good bugs and reducing the bad ones—reflects the most current science and gives us incredible new agency over our health.”
Beach sees clients virtually and at her Pleasantville office.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 914-260-7548, email Info@Louise Listens.com or visit LouiseListens.com.
Make 2025 Your Year of Possibility
Just 90 miles north of New York City, Omega Institute —a global community that awakens the best in the human spirit and cultivates the extraordinary potential that exists in us all—is easily accessible yet a world away from life’s everyday stresses. This unique destination, nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, offers innovative educational experiences and Rest & Rejuvenation Retreats for adults led by world-class teachers. Based in Rhinebeck, New York, the campus is open seasonally from late May through October.
Omega’s 250 acres feature a Wellness Center (offering massage, facials and acupuncture) and the grounds include a waterfront for kayaking and row boating, tennis and pickleball courts, hiking and gardens. It’s also home to one of the greenest buildings in the world, the Omega Center for Sustainable Living, an environmental education center and water reclamation facility, where guests become part of a closed-loop hydrological system and experience the future of sustainability first hand.
An all-inclusive accommodations package provides many options, from campsites to dorms to private rooms. Farm-to-table meals are included with each stay plus guests have access to onsite amenities and the opportunity to participate in classes such as yoga, tai chi and meditation. (Workshop tuition is not included in this accommodations package).
Can’t make it to Rhinebeck? With livestreams and on-demand courses, Omega now also brings its transformative experiences online for a worldwide audience.
Location: 150 Lake Dr., Rhinebeck. For more information, call 800-944-1001 or visit eOmega.org.
Hudson Valley InterArts (HVIA) is a vibrant community space that connects artists of all abilities through diverse creative practices. Located in Patterson, HVIA provides a platform for self-expression, healing and personal growth, with programming across the visual, performing and healing arts. Their mission is to be a bridge for healing and understanding, showcasing the transformative power of art in all its forms.
HVIA fosters a collaborative environment where artists and enthusiasts can connect, share and explore various artistic forms in a safe and welcoming space. They’re committed to cultivating inclusivity, diversity and emotional and social well-being, embracing eco-friendly practices, promoting sustainable materials and mindful creativity.
“We aim to create a space where individuals can nurture their creativity and mental health while supporting each other,” says Director Taylor Martin. “By fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we hope to inspire individuals to express themselves fully while nurturing their well-being.”
With community-based partnerships, HVIA ensures access to enriching experiences for artists of all abilities, reinforcing their commitment to a healthier, more balanced life through art. This integration between creativity and well-being means it’s a place where people can not only create, but also find healing and connection.
“We invite you to explore our upcoming events, classes, and workshops. Whether you’re an artist, a wellness enthusiast or simply looking for a space to connect, there’s something for you here,” adds Martin.
Location: 40 Jon Barrett Rd., Patterson. For more information, call 845-501-9193 or visit HudsonValleyInterArts.org.
Louise Beach
Awaken Your Flow and Reclaim Your Power
The Flow Specialist, founded by Reiki Master Teacher Regina Woods DeCarlo in 2012, offers a transformative approach to healing through reiki, a divinely inspired energy system energy system originating in Japan. Woods DeCarlo teaches individuals how to integrate reiki into their daily lives by offering tools that support self-healing and empowerment. “Reiki is not just about healing—it is about reclaiming your power and learning how to navigate life more purposefully,” she explains.
Woods DeCarlo’s journey into reiki began while caring for children and elders. “I quickly realized that in order to care for others, I had to establish a daily reiki practice for myself,” she reflects. “By centering my own energy, I was able to better serve those I love.” Woods DeCarlo now combines her personal experiences and passion for caregiving to help individuals achieve balance, peace and alignment in their lives. The Flow Specialist offers reiki classes, healing circles and personalized sessions at her Dobbs Ferry practice. Reiki 1 and 2 classes are also available as well as a one-year Mastership program for those seeking advanced training.
Beyond reiki, Woods DeCarlo offers guidance in financial healing—helping clients move from financial chaos to freedom—as well as aquatic healing—promoting relaxation and deeper body connection. “It is my honor to support your journey to wholeness, helping you discover how reiki and other healing modalities can unlock your flow and transform your life,” she adds.
For more information, a workshop schedule or to make an appointment, call 914-4797740, email ReginaWoodsDeCarlo@gmail. com or visit ReginaWoodsDeCarlo.com.
A Tranquil Setting
for Personal and Collective Transformation
The Center at Mariandale—situated on 61 wooded acres in Ossining, with stunning views of the Hudson River—offers a serene and peaceful environment for reflection, study and connection. Its programs and retreats focus on spirituality, wellness, social and environmental justice, the arts, interfaith dialogue and contemplative practices.
Founded in 1976 by the Dominican Sisters of Hope, with care of the Earth as its central tenet, Mariandale encourages the community and retreat participants to lighten their environmental footprint and practice land and environmental justice. “We believe in fostering deep connections between spirituality and care of the natural world,” affirms Executive Director Carl Procario-Foley.
Emphasizing the importance of environmental and social justice, Mariandale is dedicated to providing a welcoming space—an unforgettable and peaceful setting for planning, teaching, training, studying or meditating. The center is the perfect venue for spiritual retreats and gatherings. “Whether you’re seeking personal growth, meditation or a space for your organization’s next event, Mariandale offers a tranquil venue inspiring transformative experiences,” says Procario-Foley.
The center is an inclusive community, welcoming people of all faiths and traditions, and is particularly supportive of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. Nonprofit organizations are also invited to host workshops, retreats and conferences, either for day events or overnight stays.
Location: 299 N. Highland Ave., Ossining. For more information and a complete schedule of upcoming offerings, call 914-941-4455, email Info@Mariandale.org or visit Mariandale.org. See ad, page 6.
Empowering Clients Through Personalized
Financial Services
Founded in 2011, Sternbach & Rose CPAs takes a fresh, people-centered approach to financial services. The firm prides itself on the belief that their work should not only be effective, but also transformative—further distinguishing itself through their entrepreneurial culture, focusing on the value of both employees and clients. Their guiding principle and slogan emphasize that clients should never feel like “just a number”, ensuring every financial decision is made with their best interests in mind.
“We seek to empower our clients to build stronger financial foundations so they can enjoy a better quality of life,” shares co-founder Ellen Rose. “Our personalized approach makes the process both rewarding and meaningful.”
By treating each client’s financial well-being as a priority, Sternbach & Rose helps individuals and businesses maximize income and improve efficiency. “Most people think accounting can be boring, even soul-less, and—honestly—under some circumstances, it can be. But when you focus on improving people’s lives, accounting suddenly becomes interesting, rewarding and even exciting,” adds Rose. “It also becomes a way to make a real, lasting impact in the community and beyond.”
Location: 115 E. Stevens Ave., Ste. 100, Valhalla. For more information or to make an appointment for a free initial consultation, call 914-940-4449, email Info@SandRcpa.com or visit SandRcpa.com.
Regina Woods DeCarlo
Human-Centered Care and Meaningful Living for Elders
The Fellowship Community, settled on 80 acres of farm and forest land in Chestnut Ridge, offers a unique approach to long-term elder care, blending compassionate support with meaningful engagement. Inspired by Rudolf Steiner’s spiritual philosophy known as Anthroposophy, the community fosters a sense of purpose and connection for residents, integrating biodynamic agriculture, lifelong learning and shared living.
“We believe that elder care should be more than just meeting physical needs—it should be about fostering a sense of belonging and joy,” says Marketing & Communications Manager Mia Bieber. “By creating a vibrant community, we ensure that our residents live with meaning and fulfillment.”
Fellowship residents enjoy a warm, home-like atmosphere where their needs are met with personalized care. There are a range of living options—from independent studios to two-bedroom apartments to private rooms in an adult home—for those that need personalized, one-on-one care. The community provides therapeutic services, healthy meals and a diverse cultural calendar, including movement classes, music performances, study groups, films, games and artistic workshops. The focus on inclusion ensures that all members, regardless of their abilities, feel valued and purposeful.
“Since 1966, The Fellowship Community has been dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals can thrive, grow, and experience their later years with dignity and purpose,” adds Bieber.
Location: 241 Hungry Hollow Rd., Chestnut Ridge. For more information, call 845-356-8494, ext. 2, email rsffOffice@Fellowship Community.org or visit FellowshipCommunity.org. See ad, page 21.
Optimize Your Health and Well-Being With Flowing Rivers Acupuncture
Flowing Rivers Acupuncture offers “relief, resilience and overall well-being,” according to board-certified licensed acupuncturist and Chinese medicine herbalist Pamela Todd Battle. Acupuncture can help reset the body’s nervous system and the effects have been likened to rebooting a computer. This ancient modality is thought to rebalance the action of neurotransmitters, hormones and other bio-active agents to promote better blood flow; reduce pain and stress; improve relaxation, mental clarity, performance, immunity, hormonal and emotional balance and more.
Prior to becoming a licensed acupuncturist, Battle had gained extensive experience working with many medical specialties, which provides additional insight and understanding of her patients’ health concerns. She utilizes a variety of natural therapies such as Oriental medicine (acupuncture and Chinese medicine herbal formulas), functional medicine assessment, alchemical healing, stress reduction, phototherapy, cupping and more.
“One of the major reasons patients come to see me these days is for relaxation and to reduce stress, anxiety and worry,” notes Battle. Patients visit to optimize their resilience, performance, fitness and overall well-being. And to address complaints such as body pain, headaches, women’s health concerns, digestive and sleep disorders and other chronic medical concerns.
“My approach is a fusion of my intuition and my varied knowledge and skills,” explains Battle. “The result is a combination of medical and spa-like treatments. I customize sessions in collaboration with my patients, targeting their specific conditions and objectives while empowering them to take charge of their health and well-being.”
Insurance, including Veterans Affairs (VA), is accepted when acupuncture is a covered benefit for a patient’s particular complaint. Office hours are by appointment only.
Location: 601 Warbuton Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson. For more information or to make an appointment, call 914-572-1559 or visit FlowingRivers.net.
There is no time like Spring, when life’s alive in everything.
Photo by nanda kishore on Pexels
—Christina Rossetti
Pamela Todd Battle
The Well-Adjusted Teenager
Tips To Relieve Stress and Support Resilience
by Christina Connors
Teens are under tremendous pressure from academic demands, social expectations and the pervasive influence of technology, so it is crucial for them to have effective strategies to manage stress. By incorporating mindfulness practices into their daily life, they can develop resilience, reduce tension and enhance their overall well-being. A 2024 study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that just 10 minutes of daily mindfulness practice could significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Participants reported a 12.6 percent decrease in anxiety and a 19.2 percent reduction in depression.
Helping teens in their mental health journey requires a holistic approach that addresses their physical, emotional and social needs. By fostering a supportive environment, providing education and resources, and encouraging healthy habits, we can help them thrive and develop into buoyant, wellbalanced individuals.
“It’s so important to establish open, nonjudgmental communication with our teens,” advises Chanie Messinger, a Brooklyn-based occupational therapist, educator and motivational speaker. “Feeling safe to talk about and express their feelings—especially difficult ones—to a trusted adult is
vital for ensuring mental health. A fun way to do this is to set aside one-on-one time each week to engage in an activity our child loves to do. This also shows our children that we notice what lights them up, helping them feel seen and understood.”
Encouraging Self-Care
Self-care is not just a trend, but a necessary practice for maintaining mental and physical health. Teens can benefit immensely from self-care activities, such as creating do-it-yourself face masks with natural ingredients like oatmeal, avocado, aloe and green tea. This fun and relaxing activity can also improve skin health. Aromatherapy, using essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus, can enhance their mood and promote relaxation. These practices encourage teens to take time for themselves and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime. “Joining the fun with your teen in this self-care practice is also a great way to bond and get to know them more deeply,” suggests Messinger.
Spring Cleaning the Mind
Spring break is an excellent opportunity for teens to declutter and organize both their physical and digital spaces. Encouraging them to clean out their lockers, rooms and phones can reduce mental clutter and create a more ordered and efficient environment. Tips for staying organized, such as using planners, setting reminders and designating study areas, can help teens manage their time effectively and maintain a streamlined space, contributing to a clearer mind.
Breaking Social Media Habits
A study by the World Health Organization found that 11 percent of adolescents showed signs of problematic social media behavior, struggling to control their use and experiencing negative consequences. Girls reported higher levels of problematic social media use than boys (19 versus 13 percent). Thirty-six percent of young people reported constant contact with friends online, and 34 percent of adolescents played digital games daily, with more than one in five (22 percent) playing for at least four hours on days that they engaged in gaming.
A social media break can be a transformative experience for teens. “A key aspect of reducing the amount of time a teen spends on their device is giving them something healthy to fill that void,” says Michael Dzwil, senior director of clinical outreach for Newport Academy, a residential, mental health treatment facility for teens in New York. “Suggesting alternative activities, such as reading, exercising or spending time with family and friends in person, can help fill the gap left by social media and provide a refreshing change. Together as a family, delete social media apps or at the very least turn off notifications, so that the time each family member chooses to look at social media is more intentional versus reactive.”
Modeling Healthy Behaviors
Teens often look to grownups for guidance. By openly discussing mental health, adults can help normalize it, reducing the stigma and shame that they might feel about their emotional and mental struggles. This openness may make it more likely for them to seek help when needed. By prioritizing wellness and mental health, adults send the message that self-care is important and acceptable.
As a community, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that teens have the tools and resources they need to thrive mentally and physically, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced future generation. Parents, guardians, teachers, school administrators, counselors and spiritual allies can all play a positive role in helping kids enter adulthood as happy, well-adjusted and well-equipped individuals.
Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of Christina’s Cottage, a YouTube series to strengthen kids’ resilience, connection and joy through music, mindful play and the power of the heart. Learn more at ChristinasCottage444.com.
6 Nights, Grand Ca ymans, Bahamas & Mexico Celebr ity Cr uise and Air Fare f or Two People, plus... VIP Event Tickets, Signed Author Books, Natural Beauty Products, Health Programs and more!
Pr izes Cour tesy of Sponsors and Exhibitors of The Bes t Prep for Pregnancy Event and Expo
Intuitive &
Honoring the Women in Our Lives
by Marlaina Donato
One moment, the Earth is in the fierce grip of winter, and the next, thawing soil and new green prevail. The month of March is a time of both sudden snow squalls and unexpected, delicate sunlight. We are in that liminal space of uncertainty, half-cloaked in weariness, yet filled with flowering hope, when natural forces seem to articulate the ineffable quality of being human.
Nature outgrows uncertainties with awkward grace, succumbing to unspoken burdens, every now and then exhaling with a good storm that rattles the windows and the bones. In our folklore, nature is a mother— a woman that mourns her daughter’s departure in winter and rejoices her return in spring. Like Demeter of Greek mythology, we embody the seasons, but it is not always easy to accept our March phases, when we cannot make up our minds about who we are, what we want or which face we wish to show the world.
The world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, and a few inspiring names come to mind, including poet Maya Angelou, activists Rosa Parks and Malala Yousafzai, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, media mogul Oprah Winfrey and marine conservationist Rachel Carson. Humbler, but equally impactful ladies also deserve our recognition, including our grandmothers and mothers that ran the house with lively aplomb, or our aunts and older sisters that offered crucial advice for our first school dance. We also recall and honor the women
we lost too soon—girlfriends that moved far away, co-workers that succumbed to COVID-19 and mothers we lost to cancer.
We may even mourn our younger selves and the innocence of yesteryear.
March whispers, “It’s okay. Soften, and allow for all your humanness.” She teaches us a lot, if we listen. This month, be inspired to:
• Laugh at yourself and embrace imperfections.
• Display fresh flowers around the house.
• Thank the women in your life for their unique gifts.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Energy Healing
HEALING WITH REBECCA
Rebecca Weinstein Usui Reiki Master Practitioner
Reiki Healing in Katonah 914-275-2639
HealingWithRebecca.com
Intuitive Card Readings
PURPLE LOTUS ZEN
Psychic Card Readings, Medium & Energy Healing 914-513-8398
Drought conditions due to hot, dry weather reached record levels in fall 2024, affecting every state but Alaska and Kentucky, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska. With the gardening and outdoor living season only weeks away for most of the country, it makes sense that mitigating drought is top-of-mind for many. Solutions may be as close as the backyard.
Incorporating practices that conserve and protect water, such as adding drought-tolerant plants, is more than a trend in suburban, rural and even urban landscapes. “Each summer brings hotter temperatures than the previous year. It also brings more erratic weather patterns,” says Ashley Buzan, a plant expert with Woldhuis Farms Sunrise Greenhouse, in Grant Park, Illinois. “It makes sense for gardeners to consider utilizing drought-tolerant plants.”
According to Nikki Melin, a horticulturist with Midwest Groundcovers, in St. Charles, Illinois, “Planting for drought-tolerance is definitely a best practice.” Although mulching and installing a rain barrel are important, so are strategically placed bioswales that direct and filter runoff naturally. Another solution is to add water-smart plants such as ornamental grasses, deep-rooted perennials and hardy shrubs that support drainage and stabilize slopes. These techniques move water to where it’s needed.
Other conservation methods include installing a rain garden or pondless waterfall or stream to recapture and reuse water. Replacing hard surfaces with porous materials or permeable pavers enables water to seep into the soil, supporting plant health. Before incorporating changes in the landscape, ask what is allowed by the city or town and obtain the necessary permits.
“Planting to keep water on your property to avoid runoff is a benefit to the greater environment,” says Melin. “Plants support overall water quality, which is a larger-scale benefit than your own backyard. Planting water-wise plants can help reduce the need for excess irrigation in times of drought, and this is where water conservation comes into play. Overall, there is a huge benefit in including plants that are water-wise.”
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) lists water-wise gardening as one of its top gardening trends for 2025. Such plants are drought-tolerant, which means they do not
require frequent watering. Because they are typically adapted to the local climate, they hold their aesthetic appeal in times of stress.
“For home gardeners feeling frustrated with the constant maintenance of watering and keeping their gardens thriving in increasingly dry climates, water-wise gardening offers a solution,” says Andrew Bunting, vice president of horticulture at PHS. “From designing full gravel and crevice gardens to simply incorporating droughttolerant plants, this sustainable approach reduces maintenance and helps create resilient gardens, even with increasing periods of drought.”
By planting a little tighter, plants will knit together faster, which does a few things. “Not only will it shade the soil and prevent weeds from germinating, it also works like mulch by keeping the soil a little cooler, and that translates into less watering,” says Heather Blackmore, a lifelong gardener and popular Hear She Grows blogger. “Keep in mind that the first year after planting you may require mulch, but after that, the plants will do most of the work so you won’t have to.”
Planting for conservation and protection offers benefits to the homeowner. “Less use of irrigation water means lower personal cost and saved time,” says Melin. “No more dragging a hose around or
Heather Blackmore-Here She Grows Skyward Pink Veronica
Water-Wise Plants
by Sue Markgraf
“Beyond getting plants established for the first few weeks after planting, I’m a miser with the watering wand,” says Here She Grows blogger Heather Blackmore. Here are a few plants that can handle her tough-love watering style. The list includes recommended plant hardiness zones from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), helping gardeners determine which perennials are most likely to thrive at their location.
• Skyward Pink Veronica from Darwin Perennials: Covered in pink spires during summer, this plant requires very little deadheading, grows about 15 inches tall, attracts pollinators and is a
experiencing flagging plants when there is either too little or too much water.” Reading the plant tag provides information about lighting, watering and where to plant. The National Gardening Association, National Garden Bureau, local public gardens and plant-based community organizations provide educational resources for regional recommendations.
“Light makes a big difference in what type of drought-tolerant plants you choose,” Buzan says, “For example, are they going to be planted in full sun up against a brick building, or in dappled light on the outskirts of your yard?” For hot, dry spaces, Buzan recommends Sedum ‘Carl’ (stonecrop); Sesleria autumnalis, commonly known as autumn moor grass; and Calamintha nepeta ‘Montrose White’. Others are Perovskia ‘Denim ’n Lace’ Russian sage, Baptisia ‘Lemon Meringue’, Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Lemon’ and Thymus vulgaris ‘Common Thyme’.
Buzan cautions that new plants—even drought-tolerant varieties—need to be watered well through their first season to
great front-of-the-border option. USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9.
• Amber Flower Carpet Rose: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring for repeat flowering all season. This plant is disease-resistant and fragrant. Pollinators love them. USDA hardiness zones 4 through 10.
• Spring and Summer Alliums: Recommended varietals include ‘Summer Beauty’, ‘Bubble Bath’ and ‘Millennium’. These lollipop-like blooms on tall, sturdy stems are deer- and rabbit-resistant, and pollinator-friendly. USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.
• Calamintha nepeta: These small white flowers blossom from summer to frost and have a minty fragrance. Nepeta is pollinator-friendly, drought-tolerant,
establish strong root systems. Be sure to water the soil, not the foliage, and consider using triple-ground hardwood bark mulch. “A decent drink three times per week should suffice, if they’re bedded down properly with hardwood mulch,” she says. “One of the biggest mistakes gardeners make is putting down some form of nonpermeable landscape barrier and then topping it with a few inches of rock. That’s a great way to cook your plants.”
We lessen the workload and conserve resources by educating ourselves about plants and practices that are good for people and the planet. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” says Blackmore. “I find that when I attend a garden walk, for example, I always come away with a bit more knowledge. And gardeners tend to be very generous with their knowledge.”
Sue Markgraf is a reporter, editor, columnist, field producer and media relations practitioner specializing in horticulture, environment and agriculture communications. Connect at GreenMarkPR.com.
and deer- and rabbit-resistant. USDA hardiness zones 5 through 7.
• SunBelievable ‘Golden Girl’ Helianthus: These drought-tolerant sunflowers will bloom until frost and are pollinator-friendly. USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11.
Heather Blackmore-Here She Grows
SunBelievable Helianthus
Fueling Exercise Recovery
Nutritional Strategies To Boost Muscle Repair
by Zak Logan
Apost-exercise recovery plan for seasoned athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike can greatly influence soreness, muscle repair and the ability to tackle the next workout. Proper hydration and nutrition work together to optimize energy levels, repair tissues and reduce inflammation. Above all, it is important to tune in to the body’s needs and adapt post-workout strategies as needed. Recovery is a personal journey to achieving the best performance every day.
Replenishing Fluids
Water is fundamental for muscle and cardiovascular function, circulation, joint lubrication and body temperature regulation. During exercise, sweat and increased lung
function expel water and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration if not replenished. Even a 1 to 2 percent fluid loss can impact bodily functions, reducing strength, power and endurance; impairing mental focus; increasing fatigue; delaying muscle recovery; and intensifying muscle soreness.
Maintaining proper hydration before, during and after exercise is an important part of every workout. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) recommends drinking 17 to 20 ounces of water two hours prior to exercising and seven to 10 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise. Post-workout, people are advised to drink 16 to 24 ounces of fluids for every pound of body weight lost during exercise, which would require
weighing in before and after each workout. A simple way to evaluate hydration levels is to check urine color—clear or light yellow is a sign of good hydration; a darker color indicates the need to drink more water.
According to ACE, if a workout is less than an hour long, only water is needed to rehydrate. For longer and high-intensity workouts, electrolyte replacement is advised. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium maintain muscle and nerve function. While many sports drinks provide a way to rehydrate and replace lost electrolytes, they may also contain sweeteners, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
Natural and homemade alternatives are equally effective. Coconut water has been called nature’s sports drink due to its electrolyte profile. Natural juices without added sugars or artificial ingredients have also been shown to be beneficial. Beetroot juice contains high concentrations of nitrate, which improves oxygenation and exercise performance by increasing nitric oxide production. Cherry juice is high in antioxidants and anthocyanins, which may improve muscle recovery. Grape juice is rich in flavonoid antioxidants, which may reduce oxidative stress and cell damage during exercise. For a quick and easy post-workout electrolyte drink, combine 16 ounces of water or iced rooibos tea with a pinch of salt, one teaspoon of honey and the juice of half a lemon.
RossHelen from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Natalia Mylova/CanvaPro
Nourishing Recovery
Protein plays a central role in repairing microscopic tears and fiber growth that occur in muscles during exercise. The aim is to consume approximately 20 grams of protein during or after a workout. Carbohydrates restore depleted glycogen—the stored energy that is burned during exercise.
Pairing high-quality protein and nutrient-rich carbs can maximize recovery. The British Heart Foundation recommends a carbohydrate-to-protein ratio of three-to-one or four-to-one. Simple combinations such as Greek yogurt with berries or chicken with sweet potatoes, quinoa or brown rice are effective and quick to prepare. Another easy combination is a smoothie that combines animal-based (whey or casein) or plant-based (pea or hemp) protein with fruit-based carbohydrates like bananas or berries.
Abating Soreness
Exercise creates temporary inflammation as the body’s way of initiating the healing process. But chronic inflammation can slow recovery and increase soreness. Adding these natural, anti-inflammatory foods to a recovery diet will help mitigate soreness and improve recovery time.
• Turmeric and ginger have potent, anti-inflammatory properties. Add turmeric to curries, or steep ginger in tea after workouts.
• Fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel provide omega-3 fatty acids, known for reducing inflammation and joint pain.
• Berries and cherries are packed with antioxidants that repair cellular damage.
• Leafy greens such as spinach or kale can be added to smoothie bases or steamed as a side dish.
Get creative by combining protein, carbohydrates and antiinflammatory foods. Consider a quinoa bowl with turmeric-spiced salmon and steamed kale or a recovery smoothie with almond milk, mixed berries, flaxseed and fresh ginger.
Supplementation Caveat
Supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet. Whenever possible, prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods over processed alternatives or supplements. Consulting with a dietitian nutritionist or other practitioner that specializes in sports medicine may help identify areas where supplementation is most beneficial.
Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to getting back to basics.
Fitness Studios
MAHOPAC HEALTH-BALANCED FITNESS
Fitness for Active Aging 900 South Lake Blvd., Ste. 6 845-216-6810
YORKTOWN HEIGHTS PURE PRESENCE YOGA JV Mall, 650 Lee Blvd. 914-214-8111
PurePresenceYogaNY.com
Canine Gut Health
Protecting a Dog’s Microbiome
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Gut health is essential for a dog’s well-being. For optimal functioning, the gut depends on its microbiome, a collection of microorganisms throughout the digestive tract that modulate inflammation; assist with digestion and nutrient absorption; protect against harmful bacteria; and influence mood, behavior and stress responses.
Immune Health and Inflammation
A 2018 report published in Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice outlines our current understanding of how the gut microbiome in dogs and cats is closely intertwined with their immune system. A protective mucous layer separates gut microbes from the intestinal lining, acting as a barrier to prevent harmful bacteria from interacting with intestinal cells.
Specialized dendritic cells extend out of the mucous layer to monitor microbial activity,
differentiating between helpful and harmful bacteria. Two types of white blood cells control the proliferation of detrimental bac teria and prevent infections: B cells, which produce antibodies that bind to pathogens and neutralize them; and macrophages that surround and kill offenders and remove the dead cells.
The gut microbiome also manages inflam mation—ramping it up to fight infections or keeping it at bay at other times. Fac tors like a poor diet, antibiotics and stress can disrupt the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria, potentially exacerbating inflammation or creating other gut health issues.
Dietary Recommendations
“Many processed dog foods contain fill ers and artificial ingredients that harm dog gut health over time,” says holistic pet health coach Denise Bozenski. “Artificial preservatives, colors and flavors disrupt
the gut microbiome. Common ingredients like corn, wheat, soy and byproducts can cause inflammation and contribute to digestive issues.”
She recommends choosing high-quality foods made with whole, fresh ingredients, while avoiding heavily processed options packed with fillers. A homemade dog diet can be an excellent choice to promote gut health if it is balanced and made with naturally fresh ingredients. Variety is key for a healthy gut microbiome. A diet with diverse whole foods supports a pet's digestive system.
“A healthy gut needs a balance of fiber, protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish or flaxseed oil also play a critical role in reducing inflammation,” explains Bozenski. She recommends a gut-friendly homemade meal plan that includes fiber-rich vegetables such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots and zucchini; easily digestible proteins, including fish, poultry and turkey; prebiotics like flaxseeds and chicory root; healthy fats such as coconut or flaxseed oil; and fermented foods like kefir or plain yogurt that provide beneficial probiotics.
Transitioning to Fresh Food
Switching a dog’s diet from processed to fresh food requires a progressive approach to avoid digestive upset. “Start by mixing a small amount of naturally fresh dog food with their current
processed food, gradually increasing the fresh food portion over seven to 10 days. This gradual shift allows the dog's digestive system to adjust,” recommends Bozenski.
She also warns against common mistakes such as failing to balance the diet properly and relying too much on a single ingredient. “Dogs need a variety of nutrients. Without the right proportions of protein, fats and carbohydrates, their gut health could suffer. Additionally, feeding too much of one ingredient can lead to an imbalance in the gut microbiome,” she explains, adding that it is best to consult with a holistic pet health coach or canine nutritionist to ensure the diet is balanced and supports gut health.
“It’s important to avoid feeding dogs toxic foods like onions, chocolate and certain spices,” stresses Bozenski. “Many dogs are also sensitive to specific ingredients, which can cause issues like itchiness or yeast overgrowth.” To identify problematic ingredients, owners can conduct a sensitivity test followed by an elimination diet, which removes certain foods one at a time to find the offenders.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Please call ahead to confirm times and dates. Pre-register early to insure events will have a minimum number to take place. To place a calendar listing, email us before March 8 (for the April 2025 issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email Admin@WakeUpNaturally.com for guidelines on how to submit listings.
Saturday, March 1
Reiki I&II Certification Training – 12-5:30pm. Weekend workshop with Reiki Master Healer, Teacher, Shima Chayvet. With ongoing mentorship and free reiki circles. $390 (All-inclusive).
Transmute and Transform – 3-4pm. With Sound Healer, Reiki Practitioner, jewelry designer and writer Kaitlyn Guay. Experience a transformative session with crystal singing bowls, Koshi chimes, reiki, ocean drums, harmonic vocals and more. Don’t miss out on this unique experience! Limited to 6 participants for an intimate, healing journey. $70. Hudson Valley Holistic Healing Center, 51 Springside Ave., Poughkeepsie. Info/register: 845849-0838; HVHHealingCenter.com.
Sunday, March 2
Reiki Level 2 Training & Certification – 11am4pm. Mar. 1 & 2. Join Doorways to Self for this Level 2 Reiki class which includes traditional Usui instruction and Holy Fire III Reiki Level 2 Training. In this 2-day training you will receive the 3 Level 2 symbols and learn how to use them. Prerequisite: Reiki Level 1. $80. Held at Pawling Recreation, 2 Lakeside Dr., Pawling. Register: 845855-1131; Doorways2Self.com/events.
Women’s Monthly Reiki Healing Circle –2-3:30pm. Join Healing With Rebecca for a sacred space designed for connection, growth, and renewal. Together, we’ll gather to share energy, connect deeply, empower one another and heal in the nurturing embrace of sisterhood. Free. YogaSix, 41 S Moger Ave., Mt Kisco. Register: HealingWithRebecca.com.
Tuesday, March 4
Sustainability Collaborative Monthly Meeting –6-8 pm. All are welcome to monthly Sustainability Collaborative meetings, the Town’s environmental committee. Come to listen, participate or even, start or lead a sub- committee. Info: Mamaroneck Senior Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Larchmont. Info: 914-381-7816; TownOfMamaroneckny.org.
Thursday, March 6
Natural Remedies for Yeast Infections Masterclass – 11am-12:30pm. With certified herbalist Tara Gregorio. Discover the tried and true 4-step method for healing itchy yeast infections for years to come. Open to women of all ages. $19. Replays available. Info/register: TaraGregorio.com.
NEXT DEADLINE
3/8/25
Friday, March 7
Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6:30pm, lasts 30-45min. Quit with Quinn addiction-cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914473-2015; QuitWithQuinn.com.
Friday Night Happy Hour Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Happy Hour Yoga with Ali Verdicchio is a fun, powerful Vinyasa flow set to a new playlist each month. Great for all levels, with modifications for beginners and variations for advanced yogis. Build heat through Asana and Pranayama in this energizing, music-filled workout under the Disco Ball! $22. Ascend Center + Collective, 75 Main St., Cold Spring. Register: 845-264-4444; AscendCenter.com.
Saturday, March 8
Jikiden Reiki Weekend Seminar – 9:30am5pm. Mar. 8 & 9. Learn original Japanese Reiki physical hands-on treatments for self and others with Jikiden Reiki Shihan, Anne Bentzen. Learn treatment techniques, history, receive activations and supervised practice. $350. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914588-4079; Balancing4life.com/upcoming-events. Upstate Pups Adoption at Hudson Valley Hemp – 12pm. Upstate Pups Adoption Charity will onsite, showcasing adorable adoptable pups. Hudson Valley Hemp proudly sponsors this event, supporting the cause of finding forever homes for furry friends. Free to attend. Hudson Valley Hemp Co, 888 Rte. 6, Mahopac. Questions: 845-442-3346.
Moving into Stillness: Half Day Retreat with Kathleen Hinge – 1- 4pm. An afternoon of yoga and meditation to calm the mind and cultivate awareness. Experience poses, breath techniques and quiet reflection, then journal your insights. $75. All levels; must be able to sit for an extended time on floor or a chair. In-person only. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.
Sunday, March 9
Monthly Restorative Yoga with Reiki – 121:15pm. With Reiki Master, Shamanic Reiki2 Practitioner, Charron Leilani. Combining restorative yoga with reiki creates a soothing, revitalizing experience. Gentle yoga poses relax the body and create space, while reiki’s energy work promotes balance and healing. $30. Hudson Valley Holistic Healing Center, 51 Springside Ave., Poughkeepsie. Info/ register: 845-849-0838; HVHHealingCenter.com.
NeuroArt Workshop: Abundant Love – 2-4pm. With Artist-Teacher, Anne Zimmerman. Using Sharpies and watercolor, we will realize through Neurographica the abundance of love available to us. $30. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Tuesday, March 11
Tarot & Tea: Monthly Virtual Gathering –6-7pm. Good for those curious about psychic readings or who need a quick answer or confirmation on a matter. Great as a trial for new clients. Various modalities including tarot cards, oracle cards, pendulum, cowry shells, crystals and more will be utilized to provide intuitive psychic readings for each participant. $20. Held via Zoom. Info/register: 914-513-8398; PurpleLotusZen.com.
Free Online Lecture: The Integumentary System – 7-8pm. Dr. Somesh N. Kaushik, an Ayurvedic and Naturopathic physician, will hold a free online lecture, “Eating in Harmony with Nature: Spring – The Integumentary System,” through the Pawling Free Library. Held online. Registration required through the library: 845-8553444 or PawlingFreeLibrary.org.
Native American Medicine Wheel Teachings – 7-9pm. Scott Nelson (Spirit Keeper Brother) teaches the sacred Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel and guiding principles. Adults $40. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Wednesday, March 12
Yoga Nidra with Dani – 6:30-7:30pm. Struggling to switch off? This yoga for deep rest class helps you relax, unwind and reset before the holidays. Using gentle asanas and essential oils the class helps to calms the nervous system, promoting rest and balance. $22. Ascend Center + Collective, 75 Main St., Cold Spring. Register: 845-264-4444; AscendCenter.com/events-summary.
Thursday, March 13
Vision and (Mis)Behavior – 7-9pm. Is my child struggling with frustration? Could there be a vision problem? Learn to recognize visual triggers to mis-behaviors at any age, and to interpret this cry for help. Free. Dr. Samantha Slotnick, Mind-BodyWorld Optometry, 495 Central Park Ave, Ste. 301, Scarsdale. RSVP: 914-874-1177. DrSlotnick.com.
Shamanic Healing Hearth – 7-9pm. With Shamanic Reiki Master Kevin Spath. An evening of journeying and healing, gathering together in Sacred Circle. Free. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Eclipse Season March 2025: Part 1 – 7:30-9pm. Eclipse seasons are transformative 2-week periods that begin will a full moon (the release) and then end with a new moon (the new beginning). Join Doorways to Self via Zoom to learn how the upcoming full moon lunar eclipse in Virgo will affect you. $25. Register/receive session info: 978-5876542. Doorways2Self.com.
Friday, March 14
Vernal Equinox Sound Bath – 4:30pm - 6pm. The Hudson Sound Healers create a harmonious soundscape of crystal, singing bowls, gongs, bells, chimes, and soothing voice; a vibratory sanctuary of warmth and stillness. This experience awakens the spirit to the renewal of Spring with joyful reflection and inner expansion. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.
Soulful Restore: Restorative Yoga and Reiki for Deep Healing – 7-8:30pm. A deeply healing experience where the soothing practice of restorative yoga meets the gentle, balancing energy of reiki. In this unique collaboration, Rebecca Weinstein, Reiki Master, and Bea Halstead, Restorative Yoga Teacher, will guide you through an evening of relaxation, healing and rejuvenation. Whether you’re new to yoga or reiki, or a seasoned practitioner, this session offers a safe space to relax, heal, and renew. Luna Power Yoga, 175 E. Main St, Brewster. Info/ register: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6:30pm, lasts 30-45min. Quit with Quinn addiction-cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914473-2015; QuitWithQuinn.com.
Full Moon Ritual & Ceremony – 7pm. Celebrating the awakening of the earth symbolizes rebirth, fertility, and creative energy. Letting go of negativity and setting intentions for new beginnings. $20 Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Let It Shine Cabaret – 7:30pm. Benefiting the food pantry, and the other community assistance the Let It Shine organization supports. Suggested donation $35. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Hall, 155 Highland Ave., Verplanck. More info: 914-3238343; LetItShineOnline.com.
Saturday, March 15
Candlelight Restorative & Reiki – 6:30-8:30pm. Take some time for self-care in this gentle grounding. Begin with gentle movements to release tension, followed by restorative poses supported by cushions and props for deep relaxation. As you settle in, enjoy reiki—a gentle hands-on healing technique that promotes relaxation, calms the nervous system and supports emotional and physical healing. Leave feeling calm, balanced, and centered. $40. Yoga Haven, 125 Marbledale Rd., Tuckahoe. Info/register: 914263-5427; YogaHaven.com/events-series.
Sunday, March 16
Native American-Style Drumming Circle –2-4pm. Scott Nelson leads to help you raise your vibration and release low residue following Native American traditions. Extra drums and shakers. Families welcome with children 10 and up. Adults $30. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Tea & Tarot Gathering – 2-4:30pm. Together with Friends. Shima Chayvet teaches tarot basics before we practice our skills. Beginner-Friendly. Tarot cards are available for purchase. $15. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-7374325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Monday, March 17
Unbroken Chain: A Celebration of the Life and Music of Phil Lesh – 8pm. With Warren Haynes, Jimmy Herring, Rob Barraco and John Molo. Honoring the late Grateful Dead bassist by continuing his legacy of birthday residencies. Proceeds go to benefit Undue Medical Debt and MusiCares. The Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave., Port Chester. Tickets: TheCapitolTheatre.com.
Wednesday, March 19
The Sugar in Your Diet: Friend or Foe for Brain Health? – 12-1pm. Join Dr. Penelope McDonnell to explore how the brain absorbs glucose, the impact of excess sugar on cognition, and strategies to reduce sugar intake for improved brain health and function. Info/register: SharpAgain.org.
Learning to Read Your Natal Chart: Part 1 of 4 – 6:30-8:30pm. Colin McPhillamy begins his 4-part weekly segments on Wednesdays for understanding your birth chart including zodiac signs, houses, aspects, nodes and more. $30 drop-in or $100 for full series. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Thursday, March 20
Community Connections Networking – 6-8pm. Join our monthly gathering to learn, collaborate, and connect with like-minded individuals. Discover new ideas, share experiences, and build relationships with engaging presenters covering diverse topics, all facilitated by dedicated volunteers. In March, our presenter will be Marcela Ahumada from Ahumada Agency. $20. Hudson Valley Holistic Healing Center, 51 Springside Ave., Poughkeepsie. Info/register: 845-849-0838; HVHHealingCenter.com.
Stay Sharp Foundational Coaching – 6:307:45pm. Participants receive two private consultations, six group coaching calls and a comprehensive manual. They’ll access an online platform with videos, quizzes and email support. The program includes Sharp Again’s library of expert resources to guide their journey. Info/register: SharpAgain.org.
An Evening with Spirit – 7-8:30pm. Spring Equinox energies magnify group reading with Jessica Lawrence, a top Westchester psychic and clairvoyant. Receive loving messages from your guides and ancestors. Bring clarity to your life issues. Limit 12. $45. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Third-Eye Chakra Healing Workshop – 7-9pm. Join Lisa Cito for a fun and informative workshop. Learn ways to unblock, energize, and balance.. $35. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Friday, March 21
Quit with Quinn, Addiction-Free Naturally – 6:30pm, lasts 30-45min. Quit with Quinn addiction-cessation treatments bring remarkable, fast and sustainable results for overcoming all sorts of addictions. Q & A regarding smoking, alcohol, sugar, overeating, weight loss. Free. Details: 914473-2015; QuitWithQuinn.com.
Saturday, March 22
Reiki Level 1 Shoden Attunement – 11:30am-4pm. March 22 & 29. Level 1 certification course and take the first step on your journey to self-healing and supporting others. This intimate, hands-on class is perfect for beginners, offering personalized guidance in a small group setting. 2-parts held on consecutive Saturdays. $299 plus service fee. Register: HealingWithRebecca.com.
Generational Anger & Ancestral Influence – 2-4pm. With Spirit Walker, Laura Aversano. Explore familial stories, identify anger influencing you, separate from learned patterns and navigate within a boundary. $60. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
An Evening of Spirit Messages – 7pm. With psychic medium, Stacy Schaffer. Hear from loved ones who have crossed over with messages of love, wisdom, and guidance. $75. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Sunday, March 23
Art Escape: Fairy Art – 2-4 PM. With ArtistTeacher, Anne Zimmerman. Celebrate a fanciful Spring and new beginnings. Come and design your special fairy artwork. Supplies provided. $35. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Sisterhood Circle – 4-6pm. Join us for our Sisterhood Circle where we gather to support, encourage and empower one another. This month’s topic is How to Navigate Eclipse Season. Refreshments and snacks will be served. $25. Doorways to Self, 73 Gleneida Ave., Ste. 202, Carmel. Register: 978587-6542; Doorways2Self.com.
Faith in Film: Susan and God – 6pm. The Faith in Film series, presented in association with St. Matthew’s Church, features Susan and God, a witty comedy-drama starring Joan Crawford. Bedford Playhouse, 633 Old Post Rd., Bedford. Info/tickets: 914-234-6704; BedfordPlayhouse.org.
Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. A reiki share is a gathering of reiki practitioners who participate in group reiki treatments on one another. The main purpose is to practice reiki and develop your skills and intuition while learning from others in a supportive environment. $20. Doorways to Self, 73 Gleneida Ave., Ste. 202, Carmel. Register: 978-587-6542; Doorways2Self.com.
Monday, March 24
Earthworm Compost – 4-5pm. With Stephen Soltish, 4-H Educator and the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester County. In this introduction to vermiculture, students search for earthworms, learn what they eat, learn what they can provide us and give them a habitat. Free. West Harrison Library, 2 Madison St., West Harrison. Info/RSVP: 914-948-2092l; Harrisonpl.org.
Tuesday, March 25
Native American Medicine Wheel Teachings – 7-9pm. Scott Nelson (Spirit Keeper Brother) teaches the sacred Anishinaabe Medicine Wheel and guiding principles. Adults $40. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Wednesday, March 26
Learning to Read Your Natal Chart: Part 2 of 4 – 6:30- 8:30 pm. Colin McPhillamy continues his 4-part weekly segments on Wednesdays for understanding your birth chart including zodiac signs, houses, aspects, nodes and more. $30. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Friday, March 28
Weekend Retreat: LGBTQ+ and Catholic: Renewing Identity, Reclaiming Tradition 2025 – Mar. 28-30. This retreat offers a space to build community, reflect on identity, and explore the intersection of LGBTQ+ and Catholic traditions with presenters Alyssa Duffner, Rosys, and Teresa Thompson. It will also feature communal celebration and worship. $395, private room and meals included. Inquire about scholarships. The Center at Mariandale, 299 North Highland Ave., Ossining. Preregister: 914-941-4455; Mariandale.org.
Magic of the Circle – 7-9pm. Join a monthly spiritual circle here with like-minded souls for conscious living. Sharing, tarot card pulls, meditation. Limit 12. $30. Balancing 4 Life, 495 Main St., Ste. 205, Armonk. Preregister: 914-588-4079; Balancing4Life.com.
Experiments in Memoir Writing Retreat Weekend – Mar. 28-Mar. 30. Break free from traditional memoir structures and explore new storytelling techniques! Learn to write through interior dialogue, letters, or even in reverse, and discover how to link two stories. Come ready to get creative and write! $295 all-inclusive. The Center at Mariandale, 299 North Highland Ave., Ossining. Preregister: 914-941-4455; Mariandale.org.
Mark Your Calendar
Annual Women’s Retreat
March 28 – April 1
Emotional Healing at The Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, PA
Stress Is Gone Method with Brett Cotter.
Weekend or 5-day, Zoom or In-Person. Come vibe with your new tribe!
Few spaces left: 833-867-3529
Learn more: StressIsGone.com/retreat
Saturday, March 29
Healing in Harmony: The Science of Frequencies – 1-3:30pm. Facilitated by Nysha Curci, RNBC. Join us for an enlightening workshop exploring frequencies from a functional medicine perspective. Learn about healing versus harmful frequencies and discover ways to raise your vibration with sound therapy, nutrition, PEMF, red light therapy, and more. $80. Hudson Valley Holistic Healing Center, 51 Springside Ave., Poughkeepsie. Info/ register: 845-849-0838; HVHHealingCenter.com.
New Moon Ceremony – 7-9pm. With Wellness Coach Lisa Cito. Rituals, guided meditation, card pulling and spring awakening ceremony. The new moon in Aries signifies leadership and courage enhanced by a solar eclipse. $35. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914-737-4325, UniversalHealingArts.com.
Sisterhood of the Rose: A Monthly Women’s Circle – 2-4:30pm. Join us to gather in sisterhood— support, inspire, and share wisdom as we reconnect to our bodies and Divine essence. Through sound, breath, ritual, movement, and plant medicines, we will manifest our sacred dreams. Hosted by Katya Varlamova, clinical herbalist and founder of Warmicita Herbals. Ascend Center + Collective, 75 Main St., Cold Spring. Register: 845-264-4444; AscendCenter.com.
Raising Joy: Gratitude and Connections –3-5pm. With Yoga Therapist, Holistic Wellness Consultant Sharyn Hahn. This session focuses on gratitude and connecting with joy in our lives. Through meditation, mantras, and artistic expression, we’ll shift our mindset to positivity, recognizing what we’re grateful for and how we can give to others. $90. Hudson Valley Holistic Healing Center, 51 Springside Ave., Poughkeepsie. Info/ register: 845-849-0838; HVHHealingCenter.com.
Monday, March 31
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week Begins – Runs Mar. 31 through Apr. 13. During the two weeks of Restaurant Week, choose from 140+ restaurants with prix fixe lunches and dinners for $24.95, $29.95, $39.95, or $44.95 (price is set by participating restaurant). Reservations are strongly encouraged (and required by some restaurants). Info: ValleyTable.com/restaurant-week.
Mark Your Calendar
Awaken Wellness Fair
Sunday, March 30 • 10am-5pm Award-Winning Best of Westchester Body, Mind, Spirit, Green Expo Unique Vendors, Expert Speakers, Intuitive Readers, Gifted Healers A day of education and inspiration Westchester Marriott
AwakenFair.com
(Exhibitor spots are available)
Plan Ahead
Friday, April 4
Friday Night Happy Hour Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Happy Hour Yoga with Ali Verdicchio is a fun, powerful Vinyasa flow set to a new playlist each month. Great for all levels, with modifications for beginners and variations for advanced yogis. Build heat through Asana and Pranayama in this energizing, music-filled workout under the Disco Ball! $22. Ascend Center + Collective, 75 Main St., Cold Spring. Register: 845-264-4444; AscendCenter.com.
Sunday, April 6
Women’s Monthly Reiki Healing Circle –2-3:30pm. Join Healing With Rebecca for a sacred space designed for connection, growth, and renewal. Together, we’ll gather to share energy, connect deeply, empower one another and heal in the nurturing embrace of sisterhood. Free. YogaSix, 41 S Moger Ave., Mt Kisco. Register: HealingWithRebecca.com.
Mark Your Calendar
Discover the Divinity Within You Taking the Next Step to Spiritual Mastery
NY ECK Soul Adventure Seminar
April 11-13 • Clifton Park
New to Eckankar? Be our Guest! Immerse yourself in spiritual exploration through workshops, talks, interactive discussions, music and spiritual exercises. For Reservation, Hotel and Program Information: Eckankar-ny.org/seminar2025
Ongoing Calendar listings must be resent quarterly for our April, July & October editions. Email listings to Admin@WakeUpNaturally.com
Sunday
Luna Power Flow – 9:30-10:30am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25 drop-in. Luna Power Yoga, 175 East Main St., Brewster. Info: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Wayfinders on the Hudson: Moon Sisters – 9:30am – 12:30pm. Mar. 10, Apr. 7, May 5, Jun. 1-2) For female-identifying youth ages 12-14. Moon Sisters supports a blossoming community of girls committed to the Wayfinders values of caring for ourselves, each other and the earth. $1,000 (scholarships available; includes all materials and fees and camping weekend). Lenoir Preserve, 19 Dudley St.. Yonkers. Info/ register: WayfindersOnTheHudson.com.
Journey into Power Yoga Class – 9:30-11am. This 90-min signature class is a journey to vitality, power and freedom. All levels. $25 drop-in; class cards and memberships available. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Rte. 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: RedTailPowerYoga.com; 845-605-2257.
Foundations of Yoga – 1-2:15pm. With Robin Palmer. Develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of yoga, exploring asana (body posture) and pranayama (breath work) and yogic philosophy. All levels welcome. $17. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 N. Division St., Ste. 2H, Peekskill. Info/register: 845-528-0318; PranaMoonYoga.com.
Monday
TLC Online Holistic Networking Morning –8:30-10am. 2nd Mon. Are you a holistic health and wellness practitioner? A healthy living entrepreneur offering services, products, classes and workshops? Join us for breakfast! We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).
Barre Sculpt – 9am. A challenging, total body workout utilizing low-impact and high-intensity movements to improve strength and flexibility. BYO mat. Grip socks recommended. $35 per class or monthly packages available. Barrebelle by Joelle, 83 N. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua. Info/ register: 646-734-6964; BarreBelleByJoelle.com.
1-hour L1 Alignment Vinyasa – 9:30am. All classes include movement, breathwork and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20 drop-in; call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914-806-3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.
Yoga for Back Care – 9:30-10:45am. Class designed specifically for back care includes restorative and supported active poses. This slower paced class is a good class if you have back pain, injuries, or specific individual needs. $22. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Flow & Align with Sarah – 9:30-10:45am. Move mindfully through breath-centered sequences while fine tuning your alignment through the creative use of props. $17. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 N. Division St., Ste. 2H, Peekskill. Info/register: 845-528-0318; PranaMoonYoga.com.
Slow Flow Yoga – 9:45-10:45am. (No class Dec. 25). This all-levels class combines the benefits of both dynamic and static postures, providing a balanced practice with mindful sequencing that follows the ebb and flow of the seasons. $20 single class, $72 4-class card. Embodied Arts & Wellness, 201 Scarborough Rd., Briarcliff Manor. Questions: Lucia Rich, 720-2247930. Info/register: EmbodiedArtsAndWellness.com.
All-Level Vinyasa Flow Yoga – 11am. This class is meant to relax, stretch and rejuvenate the body and mind. $15. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Info/register: 914293-7021; ExpressionDanceWellness.com.
Vinyasa Yoga – 11am. Relaxing and rejuvenating all level vinyasa flow class $20. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Info/register: 914-293-7012; ExpressionDanceWellness.com.
Wise & Strong Zoom – 11:30am. Women need all the muscles they can get! Using bodyweight and resistance bands, post menopausal women gain back muscle strength, safe and efficiently. Safe for women with osteoporosis. $15. Held via Zoom. Offered by Amenia Yoga – A Place for Wellness. Info/register: 646-401-4188; AmeniaYoga.com.
Gentle Hatha Yoga – 4pm. This gentle class begins with breath work, then gentle yoga poses follow, ending with relaxation. All levels are welcome. Held in person & virtually. Arrive 10-15 min before your first class to fill out our health care form and pay. $20 or $10 for seniors 65 and older (cash or check). Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place. No reservations needed. Questions: PutnamYoga.com.
All Levels Iyengar Yoga – 5:30pm. Yoga that emphasizes safety, optimal body alignment, and attention to detail. Modifications will be given as necessary for those new to yoga, injuries, or certain medical conditions. $22. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Adult Dance Fitness – 6pm. Stretch & condition. Learn a fun new dance combination weekly and challenge your body and mind. Increase self-esteem while having fun! $15. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Info/register: 914-293-7021; ExpressionDanceWellness.com.
Failure is success if we learn from it.
—Malcolm Forbes
Luna Power Flow – 6-7pm. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25 drop-in. Luna Power Yoga, 175 East Main St., Brewster. Info: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Reiki-Infused Restorative Yoga – 7pm. A restful practice that holds yoga poses (asanas) for a longer duration using props like yoga blocks, blankets, and bolsters. It is a practice of deep relaxation that emphasizes the meditative aspect of yoga—the union of body and mind. $20. Blue Lotus Yoga & Healing, 5 Dover Village Plaza, Ste. 3, Dover Plains. Register: 845-242-3625; BlueLotusYogaHealing.com.
Reiki Circle – 7-8pm. 1st Mon. Class includes breathing exercise, visual meditation and guided instruction of hand placements for self-treatment utilizing universal life force energy, known as Reiki. Held via Zoom. $18. Info/register: 914513-8398; PurpleLotusZen.com.
Tuesday
Green Street Radio – 10am. With Patti and Doug Wood. Environmental news, analysis and sciencebased information. Info: GreenStreetRadio.com. 99.5 FM and WBAI.org.
Chair Yoga – 10:30am. With Lisa Cito. A gentle form of yoga. Improves flexibility, strength, and balance $12. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor, 914-737-4325. Register: UniversalHealingArts.com.
Fall Prevention and Balance Class with Elena – 3-4pm. Balance and functional training. Fall prevention strategies. All levels are welcome. In-person at Health Balanced Fitness Studio, 900 South Lake Blvd, Ste. 6, Mahopac. $25 drop-in or $80/4 classes. For reservations: call/text 845-2166810 or HealthBalanced.com.
Power Flow – 4:30-5:30pm. Fun and energetic class with a strong emphasis on breath, alignment and flow. $25 drop-in; class cards and memberships available. RedTail Power Yoga, 810 Rte. 82, Hopewell Junction. Info: 845-605-2257; RedTailPowerYoga.com.
Yoga for Educators – 4:30pm. With Elana Master. Cultivate the healing power within through chakra-informed yoga, breathwork, movement, and meditation. $20 or $15 4-class pass. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor, 914-737-4325. Register: UniversalHealingArts.com.
Smooth and Steady – 5:30pm. Taking it slow and steady, we flow through slow movements and dynamic stretching, integrating breath to improve posture, balance and stability, core strength, and range of motion. $20. Amenia Yoga – A Place for Wellness, 18 Old North Rd., Amenia. Info/register: 646-401-4188; AmeniaYoga.com.
Yin Yoga – 5:30pm. The postures are muscularly passive and held for 3-5 minutes, letting gravity do the stretching, no effort is involved. Arrive 10-15 min before your first class to fill out our health care form and pay. $20 or $10 for seniors 65 and older (cash or check). Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place. Questions: PutnamYoga.com.
Vinyasa Flow – 6-7pm. Fast-paced, energetic and fun weekly class. $22 drop-in; class package. Rhinebeck Yoga Center, 6400 Montgomery St., Flr. 3, Rhinebeck. 845-876-2528; RhinebeckYogaCenter.com.
Strong Vinyasa – 7pm. A Vinyasa-style class inspired by the Ashtanga lineage. This class integrates strength, flexibility, concentration, and contemplation through a series of traditional postures linked together through breath and movement. $20. Blue Lotus Yoga & Healing, 5 Dover Village Plaza, Ste. 3, Dover Plains. Register: 845-242-3625; BlueLotusYogaHealing.com.
Open Vinyasa with Kristi – 7pm. In this all levels, uplifting Vinyasa class, each student will experience their own personal journey finding increased strength, balance, flexibility, and a sense of personal growth and discovery. $17. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 N. Division St., Ste. 2H, Peekskill. Info/register: 845-528-0318; PranaMoonYoga.com.
Tarot & Tea – 7-8pm. 2nd Tues. This program is good for those curious about psychic readings. Offered via Zoom. $18 per person (for adult females only). Info/ register: 914-513-8398; PurpleLotusZen.com.
Wednesday
TLC Networking Breakfast in Mount Kisco – 8:30-10am. 3rd Wednesday. Are you a holistic health and wellness practitioner? A healthy living entrepreneur offering services, products, classes and workshops? Join us for breakfast! We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).
Gentle Embodied Yoga – 9am. With Elana Master. Connect with your body, and release tension with Gentle poses and movements. $20 or $15 4-class pass. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor, 914-737-4325. Register: UniversalHealingArts. com.
Luna Power Flow – 9:45-10:45am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25 drop-in. Luna Power Yoga, 175 East Main St., Brewster. Info: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Chair Yoga for Healthy Aging – 11am. Participants practice poses seated in a chair or standing with assistance of a chair. Great for active older adults who want to build strength and improve balance, coordination, and posture. $20. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845-202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Lunch Break Yoga – 12-12:30pm. Take a break from your workday with this 30 minute yoga stretch and relaxation. $15 in-studio. $10 virtual. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Info/register: 914-293-7021; ExpressionDanceWellness.com.
The Magic of Intention - 1-2:30pm. (Wednesdays Mar. 6 – Apr. 24). In-person 8 week series led by Carol Canter, MSW based on Lynne McTaggert’s “Power of Eight” work. Learn the essential keys to effective intention setting for success in any area of your life. Group dynamics magnify intentions. $195. Balancing 4 Life, 25 Broadway, Ste. 101, Pleasantville. Preregister: Call or text Anne Bentzen at 914588-4079; Balancing4Life.com/upcoming-events.
Gentle Alignment Vinyasa – 4:30pm. 1-hour class includes movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20 drop-in; call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info/ register: 914-806-3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.
Yoga for Scoliosis – 5:30-7pm. 4-week series beginning Mar. 6. This series will teach you the foundational skills you need to work with scoliosis and/or fusions, including understanding your curves and how to work with them. You will learn basic anatomy of the spine related to scoliosis and how to modify the poses so you may develop greater spinal length and create new patterns of movement. $205. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845-202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Yoga Level ½ – 5:30pm. This class offers both basic and slightly more complex poses and flows. Great for beginners looking for a little more (with modifications) or for the intermediate yogi, looking for an added challenge. Arrive 10-15 min before your first class to fill out our healthcare form and pay. $20 or $10 for seniors 65 and older (cash or check). Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place. No reservations needed. Questions: PutnamYoga.com.
Restorative Chakra Informed Yoga – 5:45pm. With Elana Master. This class focuses on relaxing the body and mind through supported postures. $20 or $15 4-class pass. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor, 914-737-4325. Register: UniversalHealingArts.com.
Qigong Yoga with Justine – 6-7pm. This class will enhance strength, flexibility, balance. It will relieve stress, promote vitality for a calmer body and inner harmony. Beginners are welcome. In-person or via Zoom. Health Balanced Fitness Studio, 900 South Lake Blvd., Ste. 6, Mahopac. $25 drop-in or $80/4 classes; $22 online. For reservations: call/text 845216-6810 or HealthBalanced.com.
1-Hour Level 2 Vinyasa – 6pm. Class includes movement, breath work and meditation. $20 dropin; call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info/register: 914-806-3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.
TLC Online Holistic Networking Evening –6-7:30pm. Last Wednesday. Are you a holistic health and wellness practitioner? A healthy living entrepreneur offering services, products, classes and workshops? Join us for breakfast! We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).
Thursday
TLC Networking Breakfast in Rye – 8:30-10am. Last Thursday of the month. Are you a holistic health and wellness practitioner? A healthy living entrepreneur offering services, products, classes and workshops? Join us for breakfast! We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).
1-Hour Gentle Alignment Yoga – 9:30am. Class includes movement, breath work and meditation. $20 drop-in; call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info/register: 914-806-3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.
All Levels Iyengar Yoga – 9:30am. Yoga that emphasizes safety, optimal body alignment, and attention to detail. Modifications will be given as necessary for those new to yoga, injuries, or certain medical conditions. $22. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Chair Yoga – 11am. A 40-min relaxing stretch and conditioning chair yoga class helps build strength and flexibility to alleviate pain and stress in the body. $15. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Register: 914293-7021; ExpressionDanceWellness.com.
Chair Yoga/Balance with Elena – 12:30-1:30pm. Gentle, breath-based flow. Increases flexibility and joint mobility, reduces stress, and improves balance. Standing and seated exercises. No experience necessary. In-person on via Zoom. $25 drop-in or $80/4 classes; $22 online. Health Balanced Fitness Studio, 900 South Lake Blvd., Ste. 6, Mahopac. For reservations: call/text 845-216-6810 or HealthBalanced.com.
Stretch & Release – 4:30pm. This class focuses on increasing flexibility through deep stretching, functional movement and the occasional long-held stretch. Great class for beginner yogis or regular practitioners. Makes great cross-training option for athletes and high-impact workouts. Arrive 10-15 min before your first class to fill out our healthcare form and pay. $20 or $10 for seniors 65 and older (cash or check). Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place. No reservations needed. Questions: PutnamYoga.com.
Yoga for Back Care – 5:30-6:45pm. This gentle yoga class is good for beginners, older students, and those desiring a slower paced class. Includes restorative poses as well as supported active poses. A good class for you if you have back pain, injuries, or specific individual needs. $22. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845-202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Barre Pilates Blend Class – 6-6:50pm. Combining ballet inspired movements with Pilates alignment principles, this class incorporates light resistance with high repetition moves that challenge strength, coordination and balance. $25 drop-in or $80/4 classes. HealthBalanced Fitness Studio, 900 South Lake Blvd, Ste. 6, Mahopac. For reservation call/ text: 845-216-6810 or visit our website HealthBalanced.com.
Slow Flow Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. (Dec. 21 & Dec. 28). This all-levels class combines the benefits of both dynamic and static postures, providing a balanced practice with mindful sequencing that follows the ebb and flow of the seasons. $20 single class, $72 4-class card. Embodied Arts & Wellness, 201 Scarborough Rd., Briarcliff Manor. Questions: Lucia Rich, 720-224-7930. Info/register: EmbodiedArtsAndWellness.com.
Open Vinyasa with Kristi – 7pm. In this all levels, uplifting Vinyasa class, each student will experience their own personal journey finding increased strength, balance, flexibility, and a sense of personal growth and discovery. $17. PranaMoon Yoga, 1000 N. Division St., Ste. 2H, Peekskill. Info/register: 845-528-0318; PranaMoonYoga.com.
Women’s Healing Circle – 7-8pm. 3rd Thur. With Michelle B. Whitney, spiritual teacher, spiritual healer and wellness advocate and founder of Purple Lotus Zen. Each class will focus on an issue relating to women and will provide supporting exercises to related topic. A variety of modalities such as breathing exercise, visual meditation, reciting affirmations and guided instruction of hand placements for energy healing will be incorporated to promote relaxation and bring wellness to all participants. Program offered via Zoom $18. Info/register: 914-513-8398; PurpleLotusZen.com.
“Famunity” Chanting – 7-8:30pm. A weekly practice of love, love, love via beautiful Omnifaith Chanting (it’s like Kirtan for all traditions). Event ends with sound healing. All are welcome. Brief check in and out. Love offerings accepted to honor the musicians. Held in person at The Healing House in Beacon. RSVP requested: text Eileen at 914-4567789; EileenOhare.com.
Movement and Meditation – 7:30pm. For those who are more familiar with yoga, we incorporate yoga poses and techniques that are designed for in-depth strength training, as well as improvements in breathing, posture, and mobility. Putnam Yoga, 30 Tomahawk St., Baldwin Place. Pricing/register: Christine Dodge, 845-494-8118; PutnamYoga.com.
Friday
Gentle/Moderate Kripalu-Based Yoga – 9:3011am. With Chris Glover. Gentle, nurturing, yet strengthening. Develops a calm nervous system and embodied awareness thru compassionate selfobservation. In-person or virtual. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.
Wise & Strong – 9:30am. Muscle Strength Building Class for Post-Menopausal Women. We rebuild muscle strength with high-intensity, short-duration, and low-force with body weight and resistance bands. We overload muscles so they grow—it’s the safest and most efficient way to build muscles. $20. Amenia Yoga – A Place for Wellness, 18 Old North Rd., Amenia. Info/register: 646-401-4188; AmeniaYoga.com.
Healthy Spine Series – 10:30am-12pm. 3-week series starting Mar. 15. This specialized series will include a sequence of poses intended to lengthen and strengthen the spinal muscles, alleviate back pain, and support a healthy spine. Each week, we’ll focus on a specific area – low back, thoracic, and neck – providing you with a comprehensive and targeted approach to spine health. $85. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845-202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Luna Gentle Flow – 5:30pm. This all-levels gentle class is geared towards those looking to ease into their practice, while still developing awareness of their body through stretching, strength building, and breathwork. Modifications offered. $25. Drop-in. Luna Power Yoga, 175 East Main St., Brewster. Info: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Sound Meditation Thursdays – 7pm. With Marique Schimmel. We invite you to go on an intimate excursion with your breathe, your body and your whole being. All it takes is an open mind and a willingness to engage with yourself and a symphony of sonic vibrations. $25. Viale Yoga, 39 Main St., Bedford Hills. Preregister: VialeYoga.com.
Overnight in the EE System – 8:45pm-6am. Bring sheets, pillow, blanket, water and any comforts needed for a good night’s sleep. Recharge your cells overnight in the Energy Enhancement System! Quantum Healing & Wellness, 7 Norm Ave., Ste. 202, Bedford Hills. Pricing/ preregistration (required): 914-218-3428; Wellness Living.com/rs/schedule/quantum_healing_wellness.
Saturday
Yoga Teachers Association Workshops – 2nd Sat. Open to yoga teachers and practitioners, members, and nonmembers. In person at Club Fit, 584 N State Rd., Briarcliff Manor and/or via Zoom. Info/ schedule: 914-374-9749; ytayoga.com.
Barre Sculpt – 8:45am. A challenging total body workout utilizing low-impact and high-intensity movements to improve strength and flexibility. BYO mat. Grip socks recommended. $35 per class or monthly packages available. Barrebelle by Joelle, 83 N. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua. Info/ register: 646-734-6964; BarreBelleByJoelle.com.
1-hour L1 Alignment Vinyasa – 9am. With Kathy. All classes include movement, breath work and meditation. Beginners welcome. $20 drop-in; call for packages. Tula Yoga for Wellness, 22 Sutton Place, Brewster. Info: 914-806-3286; TulaYogaForWellness.com.
Intermediate Kripalu-based Yoga – 9:1510:30am. With Kathleen Hinge. For more experienced practitioners who desire more of a challenge. Be guided through more advanced postures, and invited to hold poses longer and explore personal variations. In-person or virtual. Info/register: SacredSpiritYogaCenter.org.
Luna Power Flow – 9:30-10:30am. This all-levels Vinyasa-based class provides the opportunity to ground through mindful movement and build strength and endurance through power-driven flows. Modifications offered. $25 drop-in. Luna Power Yoga, 175 East Main St., Brewster. Info: 845-276-4619; LunaPowerYoga.com.
Shamanic Soul Constellations – 10am-5pm. 1st Sat. Eileen O’Hare weaves simple shamanic healing tools with IFS/Parts Work and Family Constellation Wisdom into a powerfully loving and potent healing field in which everyone comes away lighter, brighter, feeling better. All are welcome. Come as an attendee ($75) or come with a piece of personal or ancestral healing work and take The Healing Chair ($140). Held in person at The Healing House in Beacon. RSVP requested: text Eileen at 914-456-7789; EileenOHare.com.
Yoga Props & Flow Tuesdays – 10am. With Francesca Bove. This class combines the elements of Vinyasa with the use of props, including blocks, straps, chairs and ropes. By having boundaries, this practice plays with the dance between being held and moving. All levels welcome. $25. Viale Yoga, 39 Main St., Bedford Hills. Preregister: VialeYoga.com.
Qigong Manifestation Workshop – 10-10:45am. 3rd Sat. an introductory experience that offers practical tools and techniques to help you reduce stress, manage emotions, and cultivate inner calm. You'll learn how to quiet the mind, release negative thought patterns, and create a lasting sense of peace and well-being through guided exercises that elevate your energies to manifest your highest potential. Free. Register: EnergyElevation-ny.com.
Beginner Kripalu-based Yoga – 10:45am-12pm. With Kathleen Hinge. A very nurturing practice, promoting mindfulness, flexibility and relaxation. Classes include setting intentions, guided breathing, meditation and gentle pose sequences. Suitable for beginners, and those with physical limitations. In-person or virtual. Info/register: SacredSpirit YogaCenter.org.
Beginner Yoga – 11am. Class consists of standing poses to build strength, balance and improved flexibility. Detailed instruction with focus on proper form and function will help you build a safe, fun and nurturing practice. $22. Back2Health Yoga, 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls. Register: 845202-2228; Back2HealthYoga.com.
Adult Yoga – 11am. An all-levels Vinyasa flow to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. $20 drop-in. $15 class card savings. Expression Dance & Wellness, 2141 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. Info/register: 914-293-7021; ExpressionDance Wellness.com.
Classifieds
List Your Classified Here: Exposure in Westchester, Putnam & Dutchess counties. Email Erica@WakeUpNaturally.com to place your listing.
Donations
LET IT SHINE AGAIN THRIFT STORE IN VERPLANCK – Donations needed of housewares and home decor in excellent condition. Vases, platters, dishes, pots—beautiful and useful things for the home. Items sold to support Let It Shine Food Pantry. Set up a donation appointment: email Info@LetItShineOnline.com.
Volunteers
JOIN STRAY HELP’S TEAM OF PASSIONATE, DEDICATED CAT RESCUERS – Work directly with cats or help “behind the scenes”. Let’s save lives together. Visit StrayHelp.org/volunteer.
Advertise Here
AD SPACE AVAILABLE: Want to reach 40,000 readers every month? Call or email today to learn more about our advertising and partnership opportunities in Natural Awakenings magazine. We offer something to fit every budger as well as personalized marketing plans for your business. Call: 914-293-7410 or email Erica@WakeUpNaturally.com.
See the INTUITIVE & HEALING ARTS on page 37.
NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY LISTINGS
All year long, Natural Awakenings brings you the latest information and resources available for natural health, nutrition, personal growth, green living, fitness and creative expression. We are pleased to offer this special edition, including Wellness Dream Team Practitioner Profiles on page 22 and local Business Spotlights on page 29. The Natural Living Glossary and our extensive Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess, Natural Living Directory can support you in leading a healthy, happy and balanced lifestyle. Dive into the wealth of knowledge and inspiration within these pages to enhance your well-being.
Accounting/Tax Services
STERNBACH & ROSE, CPAS
115 E. Stevens Ave., Ste. 100, Valhalla 914-940-4449 • SandrCPA.com
Our goal is to help people have less anxiety about managing their finances, to maximize their income and run their businesses better. Giving people a stronger financial foundation can absolutely contribute to a better quality of life.
Frustrated with not feeling or looking your best? Let me guide you on your path to better health and well-being. Utilizing: Medical Acupuncture, ONDAMED Biofeedback Therapy, Reiki, Mei Zen Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation, weight loss and fertility. See ad, page 8.
Addiction Cessation
QUIT WITH QUINN
Midtown Manhattan and Garrison Steve.HealingNY@gmail.com 914-473-2015 • QuitWithQuinn.com
Quit with Quinn helps people overcome daily addictions and unwanted habits ranging from sugar, smoking, alcohol, weight loss, to overeating and other compulsive habits. All natural, energetic healing programs with 90% success rate. See ad, page 42.
Alternative Healing
FRANCESCA GENCO, MA, NCMT
Bodywork, Sound Therapy & Yoga
Sleepy Hollow
510-524-2924 • SongOfTheBody.com
Be at home in your body. Experience freedom and ease. We will engage movement, bodywork and voice to release patterns that no longer serve you, allowing you to connect with your body’s intelligence. Private and group sessions.
QUANTUM HEALING & WELLNESS
Dr. Michelle Adams, Owner & Natural Health Practicioner
7 Norm Ave., Bedford Hills 914-218-3428
QuantumHealingAndWellnesspma.com
Dr. Adams, Natural Health Practitioner, offers AO Scan, revealing imbalances in 12 body systems, along with EESystem™ and other holistic therapies and technologies. Experience advanced energy healing, detox, and cellular regeneration to restore balance and optimize wellness. Empower your body’s natural ability to heal! See ad, page 16.
Astrology
PLEASANTVILLE ASTROLOGY
Colin McPhillamy 42 Memorial Plaza, Pleasantville PleasantvilleAstrology.com
Colin McPhillamy, British Australian Actor/Astrologer, offers in-person or online readings in Western Astrology and Tarot designed to support and empower clients. Consult the stars, elevate your choices. PleasantvilleAstrology.com.
Ayurveda
DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC
Yellow Monkey Village
792 Rte. 35, Cross River and NYC Office: 914-875-9088 • Cell: 646-670-6725 DrKaushik.com • DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com
Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, ozone therapy, Panchakarma. Clinic days: M-F. See ad, page 11.
Back Care
BACK2HEALTH YOGA
Yoga for Back Care + Scoliosis 6 Broadway Ave., Wappingers Falls 845-202-2228 • Back2HealthYoga.com
Alleviate pain and stiffness through yoga led by Cristina Roy, Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher, and Yoga for Scoliosis Trainer. Personalized sessions create alignment in the
and relieve tension and stress. Enhance your well-being. Visit website to learn more. See ad, page 19.
NATURAL LIVING DIRECTORY INDEX
NATURAL LIVING GLOSSARY
Active Release Techniques (ART):
A patented, state-of-the-art soft tissue system/ movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles.
Acupuncture: An ancient Oriental technique that stimulates the body’s ability to sustain and balance itself, based on the theory that an electromagnetic life-force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) is channeled in a continuous flow throughout the body via a network of ‘meridians.’ Disease is understood as an imbalance in the meridian system
Diagnosis of an imbalance is made by “reading” the pulse, face, tongue and body energy. To correct it, a practitioner inserts acupuncture needles at specific points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the flow of life force. Acupuncture principles include the yin and yang polarities and the associations of the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood with bodily organs.
Alexander Technique: A system of re-educating the body and mind to support and facilitate proper posture and ease of movement. Through gentle manual guidance, accompanied by verbal directions, the Alexander teacher coaches the student to become aware of unnecessary tension and to unlearn longstanding patterns of movement. The Alexander Technique is an established method for helping to improve chronic conditions such as back, shoulder or neck pain, nervous tension, poor coordination, breathing problems and vocal strain. Athletes and performing artists frequently use it to improve performance level.
Apothecary Practitioner:
Once an archaic term for a person who made and sold medicine, the term is used today to refer to specialists in a range of modalities—including spiritual practices, herbal remedies and energy and vibrational medicine—that facilitate natural healing and support spiritual growth.
Aromatherapy: An ancient healing art that uses the essential oils of herbs and flowers to treat emotional disorders such as stress and anxiety and a wide range of other ailments. Oils are massaged into the skin, inhaled or added to a water bath. Often used in conjunction with massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, herbology and chiropractic or other holistic treatments.
Art Therapy: Uses the creative process of making art to improve and enhance physical, mental and emotional well-being and to deepen self-awareness. The therapist makes a diagnosis and determines treatment plans by encouraging a client to express his or her feelings and unconscious thoughts through the nonverbal creative process and by observing the forms and content created.
Astrology: A system of traditions and beliefs that holds that the relative positions of celestial bodies either directly influence life on Earth or correspond to events experienced on a human scale. Modern astrologers define astrology as a symbolic language, art form and type of divination that can provide information about personality and human affairs, aid in the interpretation of past and present events, and predict the future.
Ayurveda: The oldest medical system known to man and a comprehensive spiritual teaching practiced in India for 4,000 years. It focuses on achieving and maintaining perfect health via the balance of the elements air, fire and water (illness is considered an excess of any element). A patient’s body type, determined according to Ayurveda principles, is the basis for individualized dietary regimens and other preventive therapeutic interventions. Ayurveda prescriptions might include purification procedures for the restoration of biological rhythms; experience of expanded consciousness through meditation; nutritional counseling; stress reduction; enhancing neuromuscular conditions; and behavioral modification.
Biofeedback : A relaxation technique that monitors internal body states and is used especially for stress-related conditions such as asthma, migraines, insomnia and high blood pressure. During biofeedback, patients monitor minute metabolic changes (e.g., temperature, heart rate and muscle tension), with the aid of sensitive machines. By consciously thinking, visualizing, moving, relaxing, etc., they learn which activities produce desirable changes in the internal processes being monitored.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replace-
ment (BHRT): The treatment of the symptoms of menopause (and its male equivalent, andropause) through the use of hormones that have the same chemical structure as those naturally produced by the body. Many compounding pharmacies have staff trained in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), which is thought by its proponents to have fewer risks and side effects than traditional methods of hormone replacement.
Behavioral Optometry
MIND-BODY-WORLD OPTOMETRY
Samantha Slotnick, OD, FAAO, FCOVD 495 Central Park Ave., Ste. 301, Scarsdale 914-874-1177 • DrSlotnick.com
A whole-person, holistic approach to vision care, for all ages. Specializing in vision therapy and rehabilitation for vision problems which interfere with reading, learning, attention, performance and efficiency. Please visit website for details. See ad, page 35.
Brain Health
SHARP AGAIN
P.O. Box 713, Larchmont SharpAgain.org
Sharp Again—a nonprofit organization—educates and empowers individuals to optimize cognitive health through our coaching programs, webinars, articles and other materials. Committed to accessibility, we provide essential brain health education, support, and tools, ensuring everyone can take an active role in maintaining brain health.
CBD
CBD LIVE NATURAL
720 N Bedford Rd., Bedford Hills 914-705-1111 • CBDLiveNatural.com
We want our customers to feel their best and know that there is a solution to change their quality of life so that they can live naturally without prescription drugs. Products for People and Pets. Please call for more information. Open 6 days a week, closed Sundays. See ad, page 13.
Hudson Valley Hemp, in Mahopac, offers wellness services like soothing massages and facials, enhanced with cannabis-infused products. Explore our extensive line of premium hemp products designed to promote relaxation, healing and overall well-being for a truly revitalizing experience. See ad, page 15.
Chiropractic
ABBRUZZESE WELLNESS
Dr. Bob Abbruzzese
520 N. State Rd., Briarcliff Manor 914-762-8800
Office@WellnessIsTheWay.net
Dr. Bob uses NetworkSpinal care to facilitate the healing, growth and sustainable change for Practice Members. He provides a unique integrated bodymind-spirit lifestyle supported by gentle chiropractic care, intuitive personal support and empowering workshops.
DR. LEIGH DAMKOHLER, CCSP, LMT
8 Bacon Pl., Yonkers
914-523-7947
Chiropractor-WestchesterNY.com
Personalized treatments designed for you by Westchester’s only dually licensed practicing Sports Chiropractor and Massage Therapist. Receive a unique combination of muscle work and adjustments not provided elsewhere. Dr. Leigh can help you move and feel better. Get back to the life you love!
JAMES S. STRIANO, D.C., C.C.N.
Yonkers
914-793-1824
• HudVChiro.com
We offer both force and nonforce comprehensive chiropractic including Activator, Upper Cervical decompression and Diversified techniques developed with over 45 years’ experience treating neck and low back pain in conjunction with clinical nutrition.
Certified in prenatal Chiropractic: Webster Technique. Grateful to serve this population of women through chiropractic and nutritional support. Offering wellness care for three decades in Westchester with a special attitude toward women's wellness. Also offers ersonalized nutrition. Be nurtured in a safe, welcoming space.
Let It Shine "gathers love and gives it away" at The Food Pantry, in Verplanck. The Let It Shine team also connects women to the things services they need. Support the mission by shopping at the Let It Shine Again (LISA) Thrift Store Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Craniosacral Therapy
JOY MATALON, LMT, CST Locations: Ossining, Garrison 914-519-8138 • JoyMatalon.com
CranioSacral Therapy with Somato Emotional Release allows physical, emotional, and spiritual issues to be intimately explored bringing relief from pain and activating a healing process which continues beyond the session. Experience CST alone or integrated in therapeutic massage.
Detoxification
N'LIGHTEN SAUNA STUDIO
157 Southside Ave., Hastings on Hudson By appointment: 914-222-0539
NLightenInfraredSauna.com
Infrared Sauna Therapy heats up the body directly rather than just heating the air. It raises the core body temperature and produces a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level where most toxins are stored. Get Hot! Get Healthy! Get Happy!
Dowser
JEANIE PASQUALE, DOWSER
845-709-5245
Dowsing@HouseHarmony.org
HouseHarmony.org
Does the energy feel off in your home or business? You may be living with a negative vortex or geopathic stress. Interference lines and EMFs could be affecting you. Maybe there is a personal zone having a negative effect on someone in your household? Dowsing can locate, clear and block these negative vibrations from entering your home. You don’t know what you’re missing until you live in a dowsed house.
Eckankar is an active, individual, creative spiritual practice. A road map for your journey home—to the heights of selfdiscovery, god-discovery and beyond. The key to spiritual freedom lies within you. Come explore life as a soul adventure. See ad, page 10.
Education
BLUE ROCK SCHOOL
West Nyack Admissions@BlueRockSchool.org BlueRockSchool.org
With our progressive approach to education, Blue Rock School has been fostering confident critical thinkers for over 30 years. Our hands-on curriculum, from kindergarten through eighth grade, nurtures children’s love of learning and prepares them for a changing world. See ad, page 16.
We recycle anything electrical. Computers, cables, battery backups, monitors, old printers, software discs, cell phones and charges and virtually any other electrical equipment you may want to discard. If you rebuild PCs, we will take any old part you replace.
Quickly release emotional pain with 1-on-1 coaching via phone or in person at a retreat. Brett has 25+ years’ experience helping clients release emotional pain. He guides you step-by-step for long lasting relief. Brett leads retreats at Omega, Kripalu, Sivananda Bahamas and the Himalayan Institute. He trains, mentors and certifies students weekly online.
Inner harmony fosters health and wellness. Discover modalities to relieve stress, support recovery and transformation. Reiki, BEMER therapy, sound healing, Bach Flower essences, intuitive guidance and PastLife Regression. Regular drumming circles and Stargate meditations offer growth within a supportive community. See ad, page 21.
BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person Sessions
203-856-9566 • BethLeas.com
If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot.
ALEXANDRA LECLERE
Energy Healer & Medium • Author New Rochelle or Virtually AlexandraLeclere@aol.com 914-548-3450 • AlexandraLeclere.com
Alexandra Leclere is the author of Healing Wisdom from the Afterlife and Seeing the Dead; Talking with Spirits. She has many years of experience helping clients overcome obstacles, heal, contact loved ones and identify and communicate with spirit guides.
ONE LIGHT HEALING TOUCH
Hyde Park
845-878-5165 • PennyLavin@gmail.com OLHT1.com
Penny and Ron Lavin, MA offer private sessions, workshops, and the Basic Training is ideal for those who want deep and transformational healing—body, mind and spirit. Learn self-healing practices and advanced techniques for healing yourself and others.
Bodywork: Massage and the physical practices of yoga are perhaps the best-known types of bodywork; both have proven successful in relieving tension and stress, promoting blood flow, loosening stiff muscles and stimulating the organs. Massage therapies encompass countless techniques, including Swedish massage, shiatsu and Rolfing. The same is true for yoga.
Other types of bodywork include martial arts practices like aikido, ki aikido and Tai chi chuan. Some others are the Alexander technique, Aston patterning, Bowen, Breema bodywork, Feldenkrais method, Hellerwork, polarity therapy, Rosen method, Rubenfeld synergy and Trager.
Finding bodywork that improves mental and physical health is a highly individual process. Several types may be combined for the greatest benefit.
Chinese Medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world’s oldest and most complete systems of holistic health care. It combines the use of medicinal herbs, acupuncture, food therapy, massage and therapeutic exercise, along with the recognition that wellness in mind, body and emotions depends on the harmonious flow of life-force energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”).
Chiropractic: Based on the premise that proper structural alignment permits free flow of nerve activity in the body. When spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, they put pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves radiating from it, potentially leading to diminished function and illness. Misalignment can be caused by physical trauma, poor posture and stress. The chiropractor seeks to analyze and correct these misalignments through spinal manipulation or adjustment.
Coach (Life): A professional who helps clients identify their personal and/or professional goals and design a plan or institute techniques for achieving them. The life coach works with clients to recognize and overcome any obstacles that may interfere with achievement of those goals.
Conscious Living: As we become increasingly aware of the interdependence of humans, animals and the planet, progressive businesses are concerning themselves with far more than the bottom line. They know that today’s consumers are willing to invest in what they believe in, from fair-trade goods to animal-friendly and environmentally sound products and services.
Counseling / Psychotherapy: These terms encompass a broad range of practitioners, from career counselors, who offer advice and information, to psychotherapists, who treat depression, stress, addiction and emotional issues. Formats can vary from individual counseling to group therapy. In addition to verbal counseling techniques, some holistic therapists may use bodywork, ritual, energy healing and other alternative modalities as part of their practice.
Craniosacral Therapy (CST): A manual therapeutic procedure to remedy distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism—the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum and interconnected membranes. Craniosacral work is based upon two major premises: that the bones of the skull can be manipulated, because they never completely fuse; and that the pulse of the cerebrospinal fluid can be balanced by a practitioner trained to detect variations in that pulse. CST is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), ear and eye problems, balance problems, learning difficulties, dyslexia and hyperactivity.
Dance/Movement Therapy: A method of expressing thoughts and feelings through movement, developed during the 1940s. Participants, guided by trained therapists, are encouraged to move freely, sometimes to music. Dance/movement therapy can be practiced by people of all ages to promote self-esteem and gain insight into their own emotional problems, but is also used to help those with serious mental and physical disabilities. In wide use in the United States, this modality is becoming established around the world.
Deep Tissue
Work: A technique of stretching and moving the connective tissue that envelops the muscles (fascia) in order to lengthen and balance the body along its natural, vertical axis. Distortions of the connective tissue may be caused by internal reactions and compensations due to accidents, emotional tension or past-unreleased traumas. Deep tissue massage works to detoxify tissue by helping to remove accumulated lactic acid and other waste products from the muscles. The therapy is used to ease or eliminate chronic muscular pain, help with injury rehabilitation and reduce inflammatory pain caused by ailments such as arthritis and tendonitis.
Dentistry (Holistic): Regards the mouth as a microcosm of the entire body. The oral structures and the whole body are seen as a unit. Holistic dentistry often incorporates such methods as homeopathy, biocompatibility testing and nutritional counseling. Most holistic dentists emphasize wellness and preventive care, while avoiding (and often recommending the removal of silver-mercury fillings).
Detoxification: The practice of resting, cleansing and nourishing the body from the inside out. According to some holistic practitioners, accumulated toxins can drain the body of energy and make it more susceptible to disease. Detoxification techniques may include fasts, special diets, sauna sweats, body wrapping, ionized foot baths and colon cleansing.
Doula: A woman who supports an expectant mother through pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. Studies indicate that support in labor has profound benefits, including shorter labor, less desire for pain medication, lower rate of Caesarian delivery and more ease in initiation of breast-feeding.
Dowsing: A type of divination originally intended to locate ground water, minerals or other underground objects, through the use of a forked stick or “divining rod.” Modern advocates, who may or may not use a divining rod, believe that dowsing also can be used for much broader purposes. Those may include finding missing persons or lost objects, spiritual or distance healing, or gaining insight into money or relationship issues.
Emotional Freedom Technique
(EFT): A self-help procedure founded by Gary Craig that combines fingertip tapping of key acupuncture meridian points while focusing on an emotional issue or health challenge. Unresolved, or "stuck," negative emotions, caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system, are seen as major contributors to most physical pains and diseases. These can remain stagnant and trapped until released by the tapping. EFT is easy to memorize and portable, so it can be done anywhere.
ANGELO ORTIZ, LCSW
3265 Johnson Ave., Ste. 212, Bronx 845-391-3640 • AOrtizLCSW@gmail.com
I offer a psycho-spiritual combination of psychotherapy and reiki energy healing. My philosophy and approach is based on the understanding that we are all on a journey towards becoming the best versions of ourselves. Our past and current experiences present challenges, and I support the person in understanding and overcoming those challenges. I believe that we all have the power to heal. I am just a guide and confidant on your journey.
Meet Allison and Kasey—our expert aestheticians—offering rejuvenating cannabisbased facials. These treatments harness the power of CBD to reduce inflammation, hydrate skin and promote a youthful glow. Experience soothing relief while enhancing your skin’s health and vitality. See ad, page 15.
Fitness Studios
HEALTH-BALANCED FITNESS
Agi Kadar, Owner 900 South Lake Blvd., Ste. 6, Mahopac 845-216-6810 • Agi@HealthNalanced.com HealthBalanced.com
We strive to make fitness a part of your lifestyle and help you move to live longer, stronger, younger. We offer personal training and small group classes. Our services include: Strength and Balance Training, Fall Prevention, Corrective Exercise, Cardiovascular Conditioning, Yoga, Chair Yoga and Pilates classes.
Floatation Therapy
RISE ABOVE FLOATATION
111 East Main St., Mount Kisco 914-241-1900 • RiseAboveFloatation.com
A Center For Awareness and Relaxation through Floatation Therapy. Create the ultimate Relaxation Response by removing all stimulation from light, sound and gravity. Choose from three different float environments to find your perfect experience. Appointments available from 10am to 10pm daily. Free parking.
Gyrotonic Exercise
GYROTONIC WHITE PLAINS
10 County Ctr. Rd., White Plains 914-522-5533 • GyrotonicWhitePlains.com
Gyrotonic exercise allows users to stretch and strengthen muscles, while simultaneously stimulating and strengthening connective tissues in and around the joints of the body. The circulatory system is stimulated through breathing techniques paired with undulating circular and spiraling movements.
Hair Salon
FRESH ORGANIC SALON SOLUTIONS
Hair care, Skincare & Make up 190 Rte. 117 Bypass Rd., Bedford 914-242-1928 • FreshOrganicSalon.com
A healthy approach to beauty and wellness led by Maureen Toohey, Regional Educator for Organic Salon Systems. The fresh team is committed to making your experience fully complete and satisfying, organically. Receive a gift valued at $75 with your 1st color appointment, when you mention Natural Awakenings. See ad, page 19.
Health Coach
VIBRANT GLO WELLNESS
Lisa Cito, Owner 166 Rte. 202, Somers 914-447-8396 • VibrantGloWellness.com
Become the master of your mind—improving your overall outlook on life. Release blocked energy, connect with your inner vibration and improve your energy. Learn why you are prone to certain ailments. Knowledge is power.
Lorraine offers Individual Wellness Consultations based on the Chinese Herbal Medicine Paradigm which provides A preventative and individual approach to balanced health. Each “unique” individual protocol will include Chinese, Western, Ayurvedic Herbal remedies and Nutritional planning.
Energy Healing: The art and practice of realigning and re-attuning the body between the physical and the etheric and auric fields to assist in natural healing processes. Working directly with the energy field in and around the body, the practitioner is thought to channel and direct energy into the cells, tissues and organs of the patient’s body to effect healing on physical and nonphysical levels simultaneously. Sessions may or may not involve the physical laying on of hands.
Feng Shui: The ancient Chinese system of arranging manmade spaces and elements to create or facilitate harmonious qi or chi (pronounced “chee”), or energy flow, by tempering or enhancing the energy where necessary. Feng shui consultants can be an asset to both personal and business spaces, either before or after the spaces are created.
Functional Medicine: A personalized medicine that focuses on primary prevention and deals with underlying causes, instead of symptoms, for serious chronic diseases. Treatments are grounded in nutrition and improved lifestyle habits and may make use of medications. The discipline uses a holistic approach to analyze and treat interdependent systems of the body and to create the dynamic balance integral to good health.
Herbal Medicine: This oldest form of medicine uses natural plants in a wide variety of forms for their therapeutic value. Herbs produce and contain various chemical substances that act upon the body to strengthen its natural functions without the negative side effects of synthetic drugs. They may be taken internally or applied externally via teas, tinctures, extracts, oils, ointments, compresses and poultices.
Homeopathy: A therapy that uses small doses of specially prepared plants and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes in order to cure illness. Homeopathy, taken from the Greek words homeos, meaning “similar,” and pathos, meaning “suffering,” employs the concept that “like cures like.” A remedy is individually chosen for a person based on its capacity to cause, if given in an overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those the patient is experiencing.
Hydrotherapy: The use of water, ice, steam and hot and cold temperatures to maintain and restore health. Treatments include full-body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation and the application of hot and/or cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating a wide range of conditions and can easily be used at home as part of a self-care program.
Hypnotherapy: A range of hypnosis techniques that allow practitioners to bypass the conscious mind and access the subconscious. The altered state that occurs under hypnosis has been compared to a state of deep meditation or transcendence, in which the innate recuperative abilities of the psyche are allowed to flow more freely. The subject can achieve greater clarity regarding his or her own wants and needs, explore other events or periods of life that require resolution, or generally develop a more positive attitude. Often used to help people lose weight or stop smoking, it is also used in the treatment of phobias, stress and as an adjunct to the treatment of illnesses.
Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT):
A combination of diagnostic and treatment methodologies that assess and treat pain, dysfunction, disease and disability. Developed by Sharon Giammatteo over 30-plus years, IMT is intended to address the complex needs of patients. IMT practitioners identify and address the underlying causes of dysfunction using a comprehensive and holistic approach. While IMT diagnostics and treatment modalities are predominately hands-on, IMT also integrates a wide range of diagnostic and treatment technologies, nutritional programs (i.e. natural supplements, diet and herbs), and IMT bodybased psychotherapeutic approaches to develop a customized solution for a patient’s needs.
Integrative Medicine:
This holistic approach combines conventional Western medicine with complementary alternative treatments, in order to simultaneously treat mind, body and spirit. Geared to the promotion of health and the prevention of illness, it neither rejects conventional medicine nor accepts alternative therapies, without serious evaluation.
Intuitive Arts: A general term for various methods of divination, such as numerology, psychic reading, and tarot reading. Individuals may consult practitioners to seek information about the future or insights into personal concerns or their personality. Numerology emphasizes the significance of numbers derived from the spelling of names, birth dates and other significant references; psychics may claim various abilities, from finding lost objects and persons to communicating with the spirits of the dead; tarot readers interpret a deck of cards containing archetypal symbols.
Iridology: Analysis of the delicate structure of the iris, the colored portion of the eye, to reveal information about conditions within the body. More than 90 specific zones on each iris, for a combined total of 180-plus zones, correspond to specific areas of the body. Because body weaknesses are often noticeable in the iris long before they are discernible through blood work or other laboratory analysis, iridology can be a useful tool for preventive self-care.
Jin Shin (or Jin Shin Jyutsu): A gentle, non-invasive energy-balancing art and philosophy that embodies a life of simplicity, calmness, patience and self-containment. Practitioners employ simple acupressure techniques, using their fingers and hands on a fully clothed client to help eliminate stress, create emotional equilibrium, relieve pain and alleviate acute or chronic conditions.
Kinesiology/Applied Kinesiology:
The study of muscles and their movement. Applied kinesiology tests the relative strength and weakness of selected muscles to identify decreased function in body organs and systems, as well as imbalances and restrictions in the body’s energy flow. Some tests use acupuncture meridians and others analyze interrelationships among muscles, organs, the brain and the body’s energy field. Applied kinesiology is also used to check the body’s response to treatments that are being considered.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
(MLD): A gentle, non-invasive, rhythmical whole-body massage, aimed at stimulating the lymphatic system to carry away excess fluid in the loose connective tissue, which helps remove toxins. Blockage or damage within the system may lead to conditions like edema, acne, inflammation, arthritis and sinusitis. The therapy stimulates one of the body’s natural cleansing systems to help bring tissues to a healthier state.
Certified Herbalist Tara Gregorio helps women—postpartum and beyond—heal naturally with Western and Ayurvedic herbs, functional medicine, and Gerson protocols. Get personalized, breastfeeding-safe support. Book a free consultation today!
Holistic Dentist
DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND
Yorktown Heights 914-214-9678
• HolisticDentist.com
We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our website to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 3.
Holistic Education
OMEGA INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC STUDIES
150 Lake Dr., Rhinebeck 877-944-2002 • eOmega.org
Just 90 miles north of Manhattan, Omega is a nonprofit educational retreat center in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Open May through October, world-class teachers offer a variety of workshops and retreats in Rhinebeck and online.
Doorways is a sanctuary for restorative holistic healing. We offer traditional Usui, Holy Fire and Shamanic reiki sessions, energy scans and clearings, and IEMT (Integral Eye Movement Therapy) sessions for cognitive healing. Visit our website for upcoming classes and follow us on Facebook.
Home Health
SUSTAINABLE PUTNAM
Joseph Montuori, Executive Director Info@SustainablePutnam.org 646-598-6560 • SustainablePutnam.org
Free home energy consultations. Improve your health by improving your home’s environmental health. Get expert advice on natural home care products, indoor air quality, energy efficiency and HVAC systems. Visit SustainablePutnam.org for more information.
Transform and re-ignite your life, in and out of the bedroom, using the power of the subconscious mind and the Erotic Blueprint™ course, as seen on Netflix series “Goop.” Hypnotherapy can help individuals with stress reduction, weight loss, addictions, overcoming fears, phobias, grief, anxiety and relationships.
Integrative Optometry
EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC
Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD
Dr. Krupa Baxi • Dr. Allie Decker • Dr. Jason Grygier
Dr. Ken Landesman • Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami
Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh • Dr. Magy Tepliz
Dr. Matthew Weatherbee
6515 Main St., Trumbull, CT • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave., Norwalk, CT • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd., Southport, CT • 203-255-4005 992 High Ridge Rd., 1M, Stamford, CT • 203-357-0204 572 US-6, Mahopac • 845-628-3750 103 S Bedford Rd., Mount Kisco • 914-241-2020 CTNYEyecare.com
We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. Call to schedule your appointment today.
I know once people get connected to real food, they never change back.
—Alice Waters
Lens-Based
Postural
Therapy
MIND-BODY-WORLD OPTOMETRY
Samantha Slotnick, OD, FAAO, FCOVD 495 Central Park Ave., Ste. 301, Scarsdale 914-874-1177 • DrSlotnick.com
Chronic neck and back discomfort associated with computer work? Postural skews, such as tilting, tipping or turning your head, or twisting your torso? The eyes lead the body, for better or for worse. Find out why physical therapists trust Dr. Slotnick to treat visually driven disorders in posture, gait and movement. Call for consultation. See ad, page 35.
Massage
HUDSON VALLEY HEMP CO 888 Rte. 6, Mahopac 845-442-3346 • HudsonValleyHemp.com
Experience ultimate relaxation with Natalie’s hemp wellness massages, featuring cannabisinfused products. These soothing treatments help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and alleviate stress. Enjoy the calming effects of hemp, promoting overall wellness while rejuvenating both body and mind. See ad, page 15.
Mental Health Training
STRESS IS GONE METHOD WITH BRETT COTTER
Get certified live on Zoom 2 Hours Weekly/4 Months StressIsGone.com/Mentorship 833-867-3529 • StressIsGone.com
Get mentored, trained, and certified by Brett Cotter as a Suicide Prevention Specialist, Trauma Recovery Coach or Meditation Teacher. Brett is an expert trainer that uses experiential learning to help students master the material and embody the techniques. Emotional healing occurs in training.
Naturopathic Doctor
DR. KAUSHIK’S AYURVEDIC AND NATUROPATHIC CLINIC
Yellow Monkey Village
792 Rte. 35, Cross River and NYC Office: 914-875-9088 • Cell: 646-670-6725 DrKaushik.com; DrKaushik@DrKaushik.com
Combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, ozone therapy, Panchakarma. Clinic days: Monday-Friday. See ad, page 11.
Nutrition
LOUISE BEACH
INTEGRATIVE
NUTRITION
Louise Beach, MS, CNS
914-260-7548 • LouiseListens.com
Optimize your health by optimizing your gut with the help of a Certified Microbiome Analyst/Nutritionist specializing in SIBO and digestive issues. Louise can competently guide you to affordable, cutting-edge testing, interpret the results and recommend interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, herbs, diet and lifestyle to help correct dysbiosis throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract.
JAMES S. STRIANO, D.C., C.C.N.
Yonkers
914-793-1824
• HudVChiro.com
With over 45 years’ experience and incorporating Dr. Ulan’s Nutritional Response Testing, Dr. Omura’s Autonomic Response Testing, Dr. Brimhall’s Nutrition testing and others, we identify the root cause of your health issue including digestive, allergies, thyroid and weight loss.
Polarity Therapy
GOODHEART HEALING ARTS
Martial Arts: Systems of codified practices and traditions originally designed primarily for self-defense or combat. Now more often practiced as a sport, the martial arts have a strong emphasis on honor and self-discipline. The best-known martial arts originated in Asia and include aikido, karate, judo and tae kwon do.
Massage Therapy: A general term for the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy incorporates various disciplines and involves kneading, rubbing, brushing and tapping the muscles and connective tissues by hand or using mechanical devices. Its goal is to increase circulation and detoxification, in order to reduce physical and emotional stress and increase overall wellness.
Meditation: The intentional directing of attention to one’s inner self. Methods and practices to achieve a meditative state are based upon various principles using the body or mind and may employ control or letting-go mechanisms. Techniques include the use of imagery, mantras and observation, and the control of breathing. Research has shown that regular meditation can contribute to psychological and physiological well-being. As a spiritual practice, meditation is used to facilitate a mystical sense of oneness with a higher power or the Universe. It can also help reduce stress and alleviate stress-related ailments, such as anxiety and high blood pressure.
Diana Goodheart, CPWE, MSED 914-980-2644
GoodHeartHealingArts.com
Diana works with Polarity Therapy and CranioSacral work to create a personalized deeply healing experience. She provides a safe space for clients to explore their inner wisdom, heal and embrace positive change. Life Coaching and dream interpretation further support transformation and empowerment.
MELT: The MELT Method is a simple self-care technique designed to eliminate chronic pain and decrease accumulated stress caused by the repetitive postures and movements of everyday living. Small balls and soft foam rollers are used to rehydrate the connective tissue system, bringing the body back to a more ideal state by enhancing body awareness, improving balance and performance and reducing the signs of aging.
Midwife: A birth attendant who assists a woman through the prenatal, labor, birth and postpartum stages of pregnancy. The mother is encouraged to be involved and to feel in control of her birthing experience. Midwives are knowledgeable about normal pregnancy, labor, birth and pain relief options. They respect the process of birth as an innate and familiar process. Certified nurse-midwives are registered nurses who have received advanced training and passed a national certification exam. Nurse-midwives collaborate with physicians, as needed, especially when problems arise during pregnancy. (Also see Doula.)
Myofascial Release Technique: A safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. The use of Myofascial Release allows the practitioner to look at each patient as a unique individual. Myofascial Release is a type of soft tissue massage, which incorporates stretching and massage of the connective tissues, or fascia. It operates on the principal that many people hold stress in their muscles, which causes the muscles to seize or lock. This is exacerbated by muscle injury and scarring. Myofascial Release aims to access these areas of blockage and tension to release them, thereby freeing up the muscle and allowing it to move more easily and effectively.
This whole-body, hands-on technique seeks to free the body from the grip of tight fascia, or connective tissue, thus restoring normal alignment and function and reducing pain. Therapists use their hands to apply mild, sustained pressure, in order to gently stretch and soften fascia. Myofascial release is used to treat neck and back pain, headaches, recurring sports injuries and scoliosis.
Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET): A noninvasive, drug-free, natural modality that tests for and eliminate allergies. NAET uses a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture, acupressure, allopathy, chiropractic, kinesiology and nutritional medicine. One allergen is treated at a time.
Naturopathy: A comprehensive and eclectic system whose philosophy is based upon working in harmony with the body’s natural healing abilities. Naturopathy incorporates a broad range of natural methods and substances aimed to promote health. Training may include the study of specific approaches, including massage, manipulation, acupuncture, acupressure, counseling, applied nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy and minor surgery plus basic obstetrics for assistance with natural childbirth.
Network
Chiropractic: Uses Network
Spinal Analysis (NSA), a system of assessing and contributing to spinal and neural integrity, as well as health and wellness. Founded and developed by Donald Epstein. Practitioners employ gentle force to the spine to help the body eliminate mechanical tension in the neurological system. The body naturally develops strategies to dissipate stored tension/ energy, thus enhancing self-regulation of tension and spinal interference. (Also see Chiropractic.)
Neurofeedback: Involves direct training of brain function. Using computer processing to capture electrical activity in the brain, an individual can reward the brain with positive feedback, changing its activity to desired, more appropriate patterns. Gradually, the brain learns and remembers how to exhibit only the good patterns
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) : A systematic approach to changing the limiting patterns of thought, behavior and language. Through conversation, practitioners observe the client’s language, eye movements, posture, breathing and gestures, in order to detect and help change unconscious patterns linked to the client’s emotional state.
Nutritional Counseling:
Embracing a wide range of approaches, nutrition-based, comple mentary therapies and counseling seek to alleviate physical and psychological disorders through spe cial diets and food supplements. These will be either macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins and fiber) or micronutrients (vitamins, minerals and trace elements that cannot be manufactured in the body). Nutritional therapy/counseling often uses dietary or food supplements, which can include tablets, capsules, powders or liquids.
Psychic Readings
PURPLE LOTUS ZEN
Michelle B. Whitney, Medium Card Readings & Energy Healing 914-513-8398 • PurpleLotusZen.com
Connections with Spirit provide messages of love and guidance. Energy healing comforts all issues relating to mind, body and soul. Services available in-person, virtually or remotely.
Our mission is to foster growth, healing and resilience in individuals and communities by expanding access to compassionate and culturally responsive psychotherapy services, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations. We strive to create ripple effects of empowerment, accessibility and wellness that reaches far beyond the therapy room. Our motto: “Psychotherapy for the Community by the Community.”
Foot and/or Hand Reflexology sessions are offered with the use of essential oils applied to acupuncture points based upon each individual’s presenting pattern. Please refer to Services page on website for the many benefits of this ancient modality.
GROWTH
Reiki
REIKI CLASSES
Cynthia M. Chase, LCSW, Reiki Master 860-395-0284 • CynthiaMChase@gmail.com CynthiaMChase.com
Manifest yourself as a healer; fulfill your life’s purpose! Cynthia offers personalized classes leading to Reiki levels I, II and Master level. Go to CynthiaMChase.com for details.
Reiki
SWEET PEA WELLNESS
Jessie Parker, Owner SweetPeaWellness.co
Take some of the hassle out of healing with a distant reiki treatment! Personalized virtual sessions allow you to receive the specific boost of energy you require for your unique needs, but from the comfort of wherever you are.
Reiki Training
THE FLOW SPECIALIST
Regina Woods DeCarlo, Reiki Master Dobbs Ferry 914-479-7740 • ReginaWoodsDeCarlo.com
As a Reiki Master Teacher, I offer comprehensive classes that attune students to reiki, empowering self-healing. With followup support, I guide them in developing daily practices to balance mind, energy and spirit, fostering alignment with their higher selves.
YITA at the Divine Acres is a yoga shala – a safe place for healing and becoming healthy within our authentic selves. Eliminate distractions and illuminate positivity to focus on our true intentions. YITA is a place of education and joy, with miniature donkeys and sheep that add love to this divine space.
Skincare
PN ARTISAN LUXURY
Activated Oxygen Skin Care
Available at NicólJoë in Pawling PNLuxury.com
PN Artisan Luxury is a true source of potent, natural and safe skincare solutions that heal and nourish skin. Formulated by a Medical Microbiologist/Biochemist. Crafted from organic, nonGMO ingredients, in small batches, locally in the Hudson Valley. Infused with activated oxygen: anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-aging.
Somatic Psychotherapist
IN MOTION BODY BASED
HEALING
CLARE CARR & ASSOCIATES
Morgan Scheurich & Clare Carr Hudson Valley & New York City Morgan.InMotionHealing@gmail.com InMotionbbh.com ClareCarr811@gmail.com • ClarecCarr.com
The body holds deep wisdom, and emotions, trauma and stress are often stored in the body as tension, or patterns of movement. Work with Morgan, founder of In Motion Body Based Healing and cultivate a greater awareness of the body’s sensations and responses, release emotional blockages and reconnect with your authentic self.
I facilitate personalized healing experiences to help you recover from emotional pain and spiritually grow in your individual relationship with God. Enjoy graceful transformation, harmony and inner trust.
The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
—Robert Swan
Spiritual Retreat Center
THE CENTER AT MARIANDALE
A Sponsored Ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Hope 299 N. Highland Ave., Ossining Info@Mariandale.org • Mariandale.org
The Center at Mariandale sponsors retreats in spirituality, contemplative practices, social and environmental justice, interfaith dialogue, the arts and wellness of body, mind, and spirit. The center also welcomes nonprofit groups for day or overnight workshops, retreats and conferences. See ad, page 6.
Support Group
SUPPORT CONNECTION
Breast and Ovarian Cancer Support Services
914-962-6402 • 800-532-4290
SupportConnection.org
Support Connection provides free support services to people affected by breast, ovarian, or any gynecological cancer. Services include: One-on-one counseling (counselors are also cancer survivors); Support groups; Educational and wellness programs; Webinars; Social gatherings; Referrals; a national toll-free information and support hotline.
Tarot
BETH LEAS
Tarot • Transformative Healing
Virtual and In-Person 203-856-9566 • BethLeas.com
What’s in the cards for you? Tarot is a powerful tool for guidance and will empower you to make your best choices. Gain insight to your most thoughtful questions. The answers you receive will illuminate your path, making visible your challenges and ways to overcome them.
Transformative Healing
BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot
Virtual and In-Person Sessions 203-856-9566 • BethLeas.com
If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot.
Osteopathy/Osteopathic Physicians: Osteopathy uses generally accepted physical, pharmacological and surgical methods of diagnosis and therapy, with a strong emphasis on body mechanics and manipulative methods to detect and correct faulty structure and function, in order to restore the body’s natural healing capacities. Doctors of Osteopathy (DO) are fully trained and licensed according to the same standards as medical doctors (M.D.) and receive additional extensive training in the body’s structure and functions.
Oxygen therapies: Alters the body’s chemistry to help overcome disease, promote repair and improve overall function. Properly applied, oxygen may be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including infections, circulatory problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, allergies, cancer and multiple sclerosis. The major types of oxygen therapy used to treat illness are hyperbaric oxygen and ozone. Hydrogen peroxide therapy (oral or intravenous) can be dangerous and should be avoided.
Past Life Regression: Past life and regression therapies operate on the assumption that many physical, mental and emotional challenges are extensions of unresolved problems from the past, either childhood traumas or experiences in previous lifetimes. The practitioner uses hypnosis or other altered states of consciousness and relaxation techniques to access the source of this “unfinished business,” and helps clients to analyze, integrate and release past traumas that are interfering with
their current lives.
Physical Therapy: Evaluates difficulties with mobility or function to focus on rehabilitation, through a restorative treatment program and instruction on how to make efficient use of the body in daily activities. Physical therapists use massage, exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound and other means to help the patient regain functional movement.
Pilates: A structured system of small isolated movements that demands powerful focus on feeling every nuance of muscle action while working out on floor mats or machines. Emphasizes development of the torso’s abdominal power center, or core. Gentler than conventional exercises, Pilates, like yoga, yields long, lean, flexible muscles whose gracefully balanced movements readily translate into everyday activities like walking, sitting and bending. Can help in overcoming injuries.
Polarity Therapy: Polarity therapy asserts that energy fields exist everywhere in nature and that the free flow and balance of this universal energy in the human body is the underlying foundation of good health. Practitioners use gentle touch and guidance to help clients balance their energy flow, thus supporting a return to health. The practitioner’s hands do not impart energy, but redirect the flow of the receiver’s own energy. The receiver then recharges himself with his own freed energy.
Prolotherapy: A rejuvenating therapy that uses injections of natural substances to stimulate collagen growth, in order to strengthen weak or damaged joints, tendons, ligaments or muscles. Often used as a natural alternative to drugs and/ or surgery to treat pain syndromes, including degenerative arthritis, lower back, neck and joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headaches, and torn ligaments and cartilage.
Qigong & Tai chi: Qigong and tai chi combine movement, meditation and breath regulation to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) in the body, improve circulation and enhance immune function. Qigong traces its roots to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Tai chi was originally a self-defense martial art descended from qigong and employed to promote inner peace and calm.
Real Time EEG Neurofeedback: Involves direct training of brain function. Using computer processing to capture electrical activity in the brain, an individual can reward the brain with positive feedback, changing its activity to desired, more appropriate patterns. Gradually, the brain learns and remembers how to exhibit only the good patterns.
Rebirthing Breathwork: Also known as conscious connected breathing, or vivation. Rebirthing is a means to access and release unresolved emotions. The technique uses conscious, steady, rhythmic breathing, without pausing between inhaling and exhaling. Guided by a professional rebirther, clients re-experience past memories, including birth, and let go of emotional tension stored in the body.
Reflexology: A natural healing art based upon the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands that correspond to every part of the body. Correctly stimulating and applying pressure to the feet or hands increases circulation and promotes specifically designated bodily and muscular functions.
Reiki: Means “universal life-force energy.” Reiki is a method of activating and balancing the life force (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”). Practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the body’s chakras (energy centers). Various techniques can ease emotional and mental distress, heal chronic and acute physical problems and achieve spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki can be a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors, massage therapists, nurses and others for whom the use of touch is essential and appropriate.
A healing practice that originated in Japan as a method of activating and balancing the lifeforce present in all living things. Reiki literally means “universal life-force energy.” Practitioners use light hand placements to channel healing energies to organs and glands or to align the body’s energy centers, or chakras. Various techniques are applied for emotional and mental distress, chronic and acute physical problems, and for achieving spiritual focus and clarity. Reiki is a valuable addition to the work of chiropractors; massage therapists, nurses and others for whom the use of touch is appropriate or essential.
Rolfing Structural Integration (Rolfing): A hands-on technique for deep tissue manipulation of the myofascial system, which is composed of the muscles and the connective tissue, or fascia, in order to restore the body’s natural alignment and sense of integration. As the body is released from old patterns and postures, the range and freedom of physical and emotional expression increases. Rolfing can help ease pain and chronic stress, enhance neurological functioning, improve posture and restore flexibility.
Rubenfeld Synergy Method:
Combines touch, talk and compassionate listening in a dynamic system for the integration of body, mind, emotions and spirit. Through gentle touch and verbal sharing, each of these four levels can be accessed simultaneously, releasing pain and fears held in the body/mind. This method facilitates pain management, increased ease of movement, improved body image and self-esteem, and recovery from physical and emotional trauma.
Veterinary Hospital
EARTH ANGELS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
44 Saint Nicholas Rd., Wappingers Falls 845-227-P-A-W-S (7297) EarthAngelsVet.com
Where East meets West with compassionate care for a holistic approach to your pet’s health. Offering a wide range of services/products including wellness exams, nutritional support, alternative cancer therapies, surgery, dentals, acupuncture, CBD products, pet boarding and more on our beautiful 9-acre facility.
We specialize in the integration of holistic and conventional veterinary medicine to provide quality, comprehensive care for your pet’s needs. We enjoy taking time to get to know our clients and their pets. This allows pets to relax, while we learn about their family lifestyle.
Vision TherapyOptometric
MIND-BODY-WORLD OPTOMETRY
Samantha Slotnick, OD, FAAO, FCOVD 495 Central Park Ave., Ste. 301, Scarsdale 914-874-1177 • DrSlotnick.com
Smart in everything but school? Distracted, disorganized? Taking hours to do a 30-minute assignment? Could it be a vision problem? Dr. Slotnick and her kind and patient team can help your child take the struggle out of schoolwork. Through individualized vision therapy programs, children (and adults!) transform into confident, self-directed learners. Please visit website for details. See ad, page 35.
Wellness
ASCEND CENTER + COLLECTIVE Yoga. Pilates. Dance. Wellness 75 Main St., Cold Spring 845-265-4444 • AscendCenter.com
A sanctuary of well-being; offering wellness treatments, daily yoga & Pilates classes, 5Rythms Dance, workshops, curated experiences and more. Enjoy the CITRINE Café, browse the curated gift shop. ASCEND is a community with your wellbeing at its heart. Visit our website for a full list of services or visit us on Main Street.
Where yoga embraces nature. A yoga farm shala, home to miniature donkeys, sheep, chickens and ducks. Nestled in the Adirondack Forest Preserve in Upstate New York. The art studio showers our practice through the creative self. Seasonal retreats. After school yoga. Studio practice schedule, workshops, events. Forever wild.
Yoga Haven serves as a welcoming community space for yoga in lower Westchester. We offer classes for all levels, pre/postnatal yoga, workshops and a respected 200hour yoga teacher training. Welcoming to beginners and those new to yoga.
Shamanism: An ancient healing tradition, which believes that loss of power is the real source of illness and that all healing includes the spiritual dimension. Shamanic healing usually involves induction into an altered state of consciousness and journeying into the spirit world to regain personal power and to access the powers of nature and of teachers. Shamanic healing may be taken literally or employed symbolically, but in or out of its cultural context, the tradition can be both self-empowering and self-healing.
Shiatsu: The most widely known form of acupressure, Shiatsu is a Japanese word meaning finger pressure. The technique applies varying degrees of pressure to balance the life energy that flows through specific pathways, or meridians, in the body. Used to release tension and strengthen weak areas in order to facilitate even circulation, cleanse cells and improve the function of vital organs. Shiatsu may be used to help diagnose, prevent and relieve many chronic and acute conditions that manifest on both physical and emotional levels.
Somatic Psychotherapy: A type of psychotherapy that uses the body to help heal mental and physical trauma. It's also known as body psychotherapy.
Spiritual Healing/Counseling:
Practiced in two forms. In one, the healer uses thought or touch to align his or her spiritual essence with that of the client. The healer works to either balance the spiritual field or shift the perceptual base of the client to create harmony between mind and body and draw the client into the active presence of Divine Spirit. In the other, the healer transforms healing energy into a vibrational frequency that the client can receive and comfortably assimilate, reminding the person’s intuitive core of its inherent healing ability.
Sports Massage: A specialized field of massage, employed to minimize the risk of injury, tend to sports injuries that do occur, and assist in achieving optimum performance.
Swedish Massage: The most commonly practiced form of massage in Western countries. Swedish massage integrates ancient Oriental techniques with principles of anatomy and physiology. Practitioners rub, knead, pummel, brush and tap the client’s muscles. Swedish massage is widely practiced; thus, practitioners vary widely in training, techniques and session lengths.
Tai chi & Qigong: Qigong and tai chi combine movement, meditation and breath regulation to enhance the flow of vital energy (qi or chi, pronounced “chee”) in the body, improve circulation and enhance immune function. Qigong traces its roots to traditional Chinese medicine. Tai chi was originally a self-defense martial art descended from qigong and employed to promote inner peace and calm.
Tantra: Has emerged as a modern spiritual path of embodied consciousness, with roots in ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Tantra views the ‘spiritual’ as being directly present within the ‘physical’ and respects sensory experience as a vehicle for accessing higher states of awareness. Tantric practices balance the chakras (energy centers) and can contribute to a sense of presence, intimacy and fulfillment in all aspects of living.
Thai Massage: A form of body therapy that incorporates gentle rocking motions, rhythmic compression along the body’s energy lines and passive stretching to stimulate the free flow of energy, break up blockages and help restore general well-being. One of the branches of Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM), Thai massage is performed on a floor mat, with the client dressed in lightweight, comfortable clothes. No oils are used. Thai massage aids flexibility, inner organ massage, blood oxygenation and quieting of the mind.
Thermography (Thermal Imaging): A diagnostic technique that uses an infrared camera to measure temperature variations on the surface of the body, producing images that reveal sites of inflammation and abnormal tissue growth. Inflammation is recognized as the earliest stage of nearly all major health challenges.
Trigger point/Myotherapy: A massage technique used to relieve pain, similar to Neuro Muscular Therapy (NMT). Practitioners apply pressure to specific "trigger points" on the body— tender, congested spots of muscle tissue that may radiate pain to other areas—in order to release tension and spasms. Treatment decreases the swelling and stiffness associated with muscular pain and increases range of motion.
Yoga: Practical application of the ancient Indian Vedic teachings. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “union” or “to join,” and refers to the joining of a person’s physical, mental and spiritual elements. The goal of good health is accomplished through a combination of techniques, including physical exercises called asanas (or postures), controlled breathing, relaxation, meditation and diet and nutrition. Although yoga is not meant to cure specific diseases or ailments directly, it has been found effective in treating many physical ailments.
Individuals of every age and physical condition can benefit from the regular practice of yoga, which has been proved to enhance flexibility, strength, stamina and concentration. Using a combination of asanas, or postures, and breathing techniques, yoga works to induce deep relaxation and reduce stress, tone the body and organs, increase vitality and improve circulation and energy flow. Uplifting and meditative, yoga can be applied as a spiritual practice, as well.
Please note: The contents of this Natural Living Glossary are for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used in place of a visit or consultation with a healthcare professional. Always seek out a practitioner who is licensed, certified or otherwise professionally qualified to conduct a selected treatment, as appropriate.
