Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley Pa & Far West NJ- December 2022

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GREATER LEHIGH VALLEY AND FAR WEST NJ EDITION

Pu blisher Dr. D Rodger (ND)

Editors Dr. D Rodger (ND) Marilyn Wanser

Design & Production Patrick Floresca

Contributing Writers Sheila Julson Sales & Marketing Dr. D Rodger (ND)

So cial Media Marci Molina

CONTACT US

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Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Some Interesting Christmas Facts for You

The Rockefeller Christmas tree started small

The first Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center looked more like Charlie Brown’s than the resplendent one today. Construction workers first placed a small, undecorated tree while working there in 1931. Two years later, another tree appeared in its place, this time draped in lights. It just kept getting ba every year. Today, the majestic tree bears more than 25,000 twinkling lights and sees millions of selfietakers each season.

Mistletoe’s name isn’t as sweet

On the other hand, mistletoe’s name might not give you quite as many warm feelings. Mistle thrush birds eat the plant’s berries, digest the seed, and then help the plant germinate with their droppings. The Germanic word for mistletoe literally means “dung on a twig.” Really makes you want to pucker up, doesn’t it?

Washington Irving created many Santa legends

You may know Washington Irving best for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow featuring the famous headless horseman, but he wrote a lot about St. Nicholas, too. In fact, he’s the one who first came up with eight tiny reindeer. He loved Santa Claus so much that in 1835, he helped launch the Saint Nicholas Society of the City of New York, serving as its secretary until 1841.

Norway provides the tree in Trafalgar Square

Londoners and visitors alike probably know the iconic spruce that stretches to the sky in Trafalgar Square each year, but few realize it’s an equally iconic holiday gift. Every year since 1947, the people of Norway donate the tree in gratitude for Britain’s support for Norway during World War II. Now that’s what we call goodwill toward men.

Candy canes originated in Germany

The National Confectioners Association says a choirmaster originally gave the red-andwhite-striped candies to young children to keep them quiet during marathon church services. Grandmas who still sneak the kid’s sweets during droning sermons, history is on your side. It wasn’t until a German-Swedish immigrant decorated his tree with candy canes in 1847 that they became popular as Christmas candy.

Santa has his own Canadian postal code

Every year, letters to Santa Claus flood post offices across the world. Cementing their rep utation as some of the nicest people ever, some big-hearted Canadian post office workers started writing back. As the program took off, they set up a special postal code for Santa as part of a Santa Letter-Writing Program initiative: HOH OHO.

Have a Great Christmas Everyone

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Dr. D Rodger ND, MBA

Copper

Dorneyville

Dorneyville

Dr. Elizabeth Khan, MD

Freys

Green

Herbs

NATIVE WILDFLOWERS

EVER-CHANGING DELIGHT FOR THE GARDENER AND THE BEES

From the perspective of a Bear Creek Organics Customer

Ilove garden surprises like the plant that flourishes when you neglect it or the flower that self-seeds and pops up unbidden in the spring. That’s why I love native wildflowers. Richard Mitchell, from Bear Creek Organics, helped us convert our backyard into a wildflower garden (mixed with berry bushes and fruit trees) and now we have a view from our patio and our back window that shifts with a succession of blooms and colors from the last frost of winter to the first frosts of autumn. Many of our wildflowers are members of the Aster family. In early summer big white ox-eye daisies and their little cousins’ fleabane and chamomile are followed by the many varieties of coreopsis, bright yellow, sometimes with a splash

Landscaping

of burgundy in the center or, surprise, all burgundy. I love the stands of deepyellow Black-eyed Susan’s dancing with the purple-blue shades of Blue Vervain at the height of summer. Summer is also the season for the Purple Coneflower, the medicinal echinacea, and that dramatic member of the mint family, Scarlet Bee Balm (monarda) whose blossoms look like characters in a Dr. Seuss storybook. Let

Ecological, Edible Lanndscappes

us not forget Blue Iris, Mountain Mint, Swamp Milkweed, Joe Pye weed, Liatris…. the list is equally joyous and endless.

As summer shifts into autumn, we are greeted with stands of purple New England Aster, bright orange butterfly weed, and glorious goldenrod. And I mustn’t forget my bed of varieties of calendula that range in size from two to five inches across and in colors from light to bright yellow to deep orange. I love the little blue stars of hound’s tongue that pop up among the yel lows and oranges of the calendula, compli mentary colors that make me laugh with joy at how perfectly they set off one another.

While I delight in the eye-candy of color and form, the pollinators are flocking to the feast. Have you ever seen a hummingbird moth? The first time I saw one, I thought it was a hummingbird visiting our scarlet bee balm. As I looked more closely, I saw that it was not a bird but an odd moth. I looked it up and began to recognize a few as regular visitors. Butterflies love the coneflowers and butterfly weed, and the bees, bumblebees and honeybees, love everything. When I visited our stand of New England Asters this fall, I could hear the humming as I approached. The bees paid no attention to me. They were too busy harvesting pollen, stocking up for the approaching winter.

If you are concerned about the environment and the health of our bee population, plant native wildflowers. Feed the bees. They are also great for birds, moths, beetles and many other valuable pollinators. Take one step towards nature and she takes three steps towards you.

Even after the flowers die back, the seed heads add visual interest. As they sway in the autumn winds they seed the ground for the next generation of our garden and they feed the birds through the winter. Less work for us, more food for the wildlife.

If you, like me, delight in nature’s surprises and are content to let Nature do the bulk of the work, give the folks at Bear Creek Organics a call to help get you started. Visit bearcreekorganics.com to fill out their ‘con tact us’ form or call owner, Richie Mitchell at 570-582-0615. Winter is an ideal time to engage with the planning and design process.

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atural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) is entering into a partnership with KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and is a founding patron of the KnoWEwell collaborative. “NAPC and KnoWEwell are perfectly mission aligned,” says Founder and Chief Executive Officer Kimberly Whittle. “Natural Awakenings’ well-researched, practical information about the latest natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, personal growth and sustainable living played a significant role in fueling the wellness revolution. We’re grateful to collaborate with them.”

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NAPC Chief Executive Officer Sharon Bruckman says, “Our Natural Awakenings family of 50+ publishers is excited about the new resources and opportunities this partnership brings to our community of readers, providers and organizations. We are honored to be playing such a significant role in the launch and future growth of this incredibly sophisticated platform which will result in tremendous benefits to members.”

For more information, visit KnoWeWell.com. Enter these special codes to receive 50% off your first year! Practitioners Apply: NAPUB0221P. Individuals Apply: NAPUB0221. See ad, page 34.

Holiday Shopping with a Chance to

Frequency Programs Online

Dr.

he annual Holiday Spiritual & Holistic Bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., December 10 and 11, at Leesport Farmers Market Banquet Hall, with more than 60 vendors of crystals, jewelry, gem stone trees, soaps, bath products, essential oils, clothing, incense, books, salt lamps, artwork, reiki, singing bowls, pet products, readers, massage therapy, animal communicators, food and baked goods for sale and more.  sket raffle auction will benefit the Chopper Foundation, a non-profit which aids families and local rescues by providing funding for emergency life-saving veterinary care. Money and pet donations will also be accepted. Julie Barracato and her sister Lisa own Lady Lynora’s Gemstone Treasures. Julie says, “We enjoy hosting this event because it’s a great opportunity for holiday shopping for unique gifts, and the basket raffle goes to a welldeserved benefit. Tickets will be drawn at 5 p.m., December 11. You do not need to be present to win, and we have a few options for picking up your winning baskets.”

Gerald H. Smith is the brainchild and originator of the Frequency Shop. Through intelligent evolution and his 52 plus years of clinical practice, he has integrated and developed a unique system whereby people can access frequency programs online. This one of kind delivery system now makes available healing frequencies via one’s smartphone, tablet, laptop, and desktop computer. The genius behind this technology utilizes universal frequencies plus digitally captured frequencies of natural remedies to heal the body. Food, vitamins, herbs, homeopathic remedies, and drugs all represent a matrix to carry frequencies into the body. Through the use of sophisticated electronic systems and software Dr. Smith has discovered how to digitally capture the essence of vitamins, minerals, homeopathic remedies, and even drugs to effect a healing response.

may not be reproduced in any other publication without permiscarefully. Natural Awakenings is not responsible for any error not the proof is not returned to us. If there are any questions about

Date: / /

Admission is free. Free goodie bags to the first 100 patrons each day that mention Natural Awakenings. Location: 312 Gernant’s Church Rd., Leesport. For more information, call 570-573-1651, email Julie@LadyLynora.com or visit LadyLynora.com/holidaybazaar. Visit LadyLynora.com/benefit-raffle-auction to view raffle items. See ad, page 33.

It has been said that necessity is the initiator for creativity. The Frequency Shop had its inception during the pandemic when our governmental authorities began suppressing availability of essential remedies to resolve the crisis. In addition to the pandemic, there also evolved a supply chain crisis, which made it difficult to obtain the needed remedies. The innovative concept of utilizing frequencies, which had its origin in the 1930s through the research of Dr. Royal Raymond Rife, provided a simple solution. An affordable, noninvasive healing modality was now available 24/7, via common electronic devices that could be accessed by anyone around the world. There three plans available and to access your healing frequencies, go to:

For more info: https://frequencyshop.co/ref/3/

Being Healthy is a Lifestyle Choice.

Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac. Dr. Jennifer Bollinger, DC, L.Ac.

8026 Hamilton Blvd. • Trexlertown, PA Office/Fax: 610.395.5509 www.livewellintegratedhealth.com

TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley DRUG-FREE SOLUTIONS FOR DEPRESSION

by Sheila Julson

As a practicing psychiatrist for more than 40 years, Dr. Paul Gross, Director of TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley, had always sought ways to help patients considered “treatment resistant”—those who weren’t helped by psychotherapy, medication or a combination of both. When he heard about transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, a brain stimulation technique that noninvasively stimu lates neurons in the brain to induce immediate or long term changes in activity, he became intrigued.

“I had been following TMS while it was being proposed and researched,” he says. “There was a lot of interest in it, and a lot of journal articles about it, before it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008.” The treatment had already been used in Europe.

become one of the most experienced centers on the East Coast, having treated over 1,000 patients.

While receiving TMS therapy, the patient reclines in a chair while a strong magnet coil, similar to that used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is placed on the patient’s scalp in the left prefrontal cortex, or the “control center” of the brain for depression. The mag net repeatedly stimulates the neurons in that area, turning them “on.”

“It turns on that part of the brain; when the neurons are turned off for various reasons—we’re not sure why—but we’re bringing those neurons back to normal function,” Dr. Gross explains.

Patients are awake during treatment. The duration of treatment sessions is based upon the average repetitions of the magnet, or 3,000 pulses. Dr. Gross estimates it takes about 30 sessions over a six-week period to reach the number of treatments necessary to see results. The treatment is mostly free from side effects. Some people report headaches during treatment, or feel slightly tired afterward.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy is commonly used for depression and anxiety, two conditions that Dr. Gross says often go hand-in-hand. “Often, people who are depressed are also anxious, so when their depression gets better, their anxiety level gets better as well,” he says.

Other conditions that Dr. Gross uses TMS for include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The magnetic coil is placed in different areas, depending on the condition. ross had also treated a neurological patient that had suf fered from a stroke. The patient had depression and couldn’t move his right arm or hand. Dr. Gross and his team used TMS to treat the patient’s depression. Through brain stimulation, the patient was able to move the right hand and arm again.

Dr. Gross notes he always looks at the medications patients are taking, and sometimes he’s been able to reduce their medications dur ing or after TMS treatment.

Dr. Paul Gross

“We’re in the infancy of this treatment, and we’re finding out more every year about where to place the magnet, how strong it should be and how many sessions,” he notes. “There’s ongoing research, and the field is really wide-open because there are a lot of disorders that are not being treated well with current treatment prac tices, and TMS is an option. Down the road, I would suspect that you’ll see TMS used more and more for other conditions.”

In 2010, while attending a conference in Atlanta, Dr. Gross saw a NeuroStar TMS machine. He was also able to speak with French and Cuban psychiatrists that had used other TMS machines in their practices and had seen good results.

Once the NeuroStar TMS machine received FDA approval— the first model to do so—Dr. Gross knew that was a golden opportunity to help his patients. In January 2011, he opened TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley, the region’s first depression treatment center offering FDA approved, non-drug, non-invasive TMS treatment for patients. TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley has since

During the decade that Dr. Gross has used TMS therapy on patients, he’s seen about a 65 percent significant improvement rate among patients that have depression, many of whom were consid ered treatment resistant. “These are people who, for years, had shown no improvement. So, it’s really remarkable to see somebody who has been suffering for years and they start to get better,” he concludes.

TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley is located at 401 N. 17th St., Ste. 304, in Allentown. For more information, call 610-820-0700 or visit tmslv.com.

Serotonin Theory of Depression Debunked

The idea that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance—specifically, a serotonin deficiency—has been popular and influential since the 1960s, leading to the wide use of antidepressants. A recent multi-institution study led by the University of Reading, in the UK, and published in Molecular Psychiatry has debunked this theory. The researchers did a systematic review of studies on the topic and found no convincing evidence of an association between serotonin and depression, and no support for the hypothesis that depression is caused by lowered serotonin activity or concentrations. The serotonin theory of depression has historically provided convincing justification for the use of antidepressants and may discourage people from discontinuing treatment, potentially leading to lifelong dependence on such drugs.

Ultra-Processed Food Linked with Cancer and Mortality Risks

Under-Appreciating the Benefits of Solitude

Getting lost in our thoughts may improve problem solv ing, increase creativity, enhance imagination and provide a better sense of self-worth. But in the digital age, with immediate and satisfying input at a finger’s tap, it is possible to be “solitude deprived,” says Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown University and author of Digital Minimalism.

In a recent study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, psychologists asked a group of more than 250 university students to sit and wait in a quiet room without doing anything. Researchers found that the students underappreciated their enjoyment and engagement of “just thinking” and instead favored technology-driven distractions like internet news-checking. The results suggest an inherent difficulty in accurately assessing how engaging just thinking can be, and may explain why people prefer keeping themselves busy rather than taking a moment for reflection and imagination in their daily lives.

These ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat commercial for mulations comprised of little or no whole foods currently contribute 57 percent of the total daily calories consumed by American adults—a rate which has been continuously rising over the last two decades.

Commonly containing high levels of added sugar, un healthy fats and refined starch, ultra-processed foods neg atively impact gut microbiota and contribute to increased risks of weight gain and obesity. Most of these convenience foods are low in nutrients and bioactive compounds; contain food additives, colors and emulsifiers; and can be poten tially carcinogenic when meats are processed with sodium nitrates and heat treatments or when the packaging leaches its harmful components (like bisphenol A) into the food.

A new study supports the public health importance of staying away from ultra-processed foods, finding a significant asso ciation with colorectal cancer in men The study, led by Tufts University and published in August in The BMJ, looked at the diets of 46,341 men and 159,907 women every four years for 24 to 28 years using food frequency questionnaires.

A second recent study in Italy involving 22,895 adults over the age of 35 compared the role of nutrient-poor foods with ultra-processed foods in the development of chronic disease and early death. Researchers found that both types of foods increased the risk of an early death, especially from cardiovascular diseases. When research ers compared the two types of food to see which contrib uted the most to the risk of an early death, ultra-processed foods were associated with poor health outcomes inde pendently of their low nutritional composition, but not the other way around.

freshidea/AdobeStock.com sergign/AdobeStock.com

Center for Anti-Aging Medicine and Hormone Wellness

Guiding at the Crossroads Toward Good Health

by Sheila Julson

Dr. Albert Peters, a reproductive endocrinologist and founder of Center for Anti-Aging Medicine and Hormone Wellness, firmly believes that people can take charge of their health as they age. He saw positive changes in his own health when he changed course at age 50 and began focusing on diet, exercise and nutritional supplements to reverse weight gain, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In an effort to help his wife, Brenda, who was later struggling with menopause, Dr. Peters only found success using bioidentical hormones—hormones made to mimic human hormones that the body naturally produces. This immensely helped his wife, where traditional hormones failed.

Dr. Peters delved further into antiaging and bioidentical hormone education by undertaking a fellowship through The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. After 28 years of practicing as a board-certified reproductive endocrinolo gist and infertility specialist, Dr. Peters and his wife decided to embark on a new jour ney to offer what had helped both of them, to other people. The Center for Anti-Aging Medicine and Hormone Wellness opened this past February, where he offers bioi dentical hormone therapy, nutritional and dietary supplements and exercise counsel ing to both women and men.

With an extensive background in gynecology and reproductive endocrinology, Dr. Peters has been able to blend that knowledge with the newest research in functional medicine. “Many practices are either/or, but I don’t believe in throwing out the baby with the bathwater,” he

says, “there’s important information and research in traditional medicine, but times are changing, and people want to do things more naturally with herbs, supplements, nutrition and bioidentical hormones. I provide that in a safe, effective way that’s backed up with research and knowledge.”

Dr. Peters diagnoses and treats both male and female hormone imbalances; menstrual irregularities; polycystic ovarian syndrome; erectile dysfunction; unwanted hair growth in women; nutritional deficiencies; fertility assessment; preconception health assessments; nutrition and exercise; and other hormone imbalances such as thyroid issues. He begins by counseling patients about lifestyle improvements in the areas of nutrition, exercise, restful sleep and effective nutritional supplements. “Sleep is huge for the human body as far as wellness and health, as it’s a time when the body repairs itself and heals,” he advises. “Exercise is also important, which maintains muscle mass.”

Dr. Peters takes the time needed to get a thorough health profile of each patient’s concerns and goals. His initial consults average 70 to 90 minutes. Dr. Peters starts by recommending the basic supplements for good health: omega-3s, probiotics, multivitamins and antioxidants. When the lab results come in, he will address specific areas and create an individualized plan for each patient.

When it comes to the use of nutritional supplements, Dr. Peters reminds people that it’s important to consult a trusted, knowledgeable professional, and not to self-diagnose and self-medicate based upon information on the internet. This can

lead to wasting money on inferior supplement products that may do nothing or even potentially cause harm.

In addition to educating patients at his clinic, Dr. Peters does many community seminars, talks and national lectures. He also sees patients in Sarasota, Florida.

Dr. Peters reminds us that longevity and quality of life is a choice we all have the power to control. “There comes a point in everybody’s life when there’s a crossroad. You can continue down a comfortable path of accepting aches, pains, elevated blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol as a part of aging, or you can take control of your health and look for root causes of these problems in order to correct them naturally before they transform into disease. This requires interest, desire and some dedication on the patient’s part to keep the body as healthy as possible,” he says.

Center for Anti-Aging Medicine and Hormone Wellness is located at Integrated health Campus, 250 Cetronia Road, Suite 301. Allentown, PA 18104. For more information, call 484-788-2391 or visit HormoneWellness.net. See ad on page 20.

Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awaken ings magazines throughout the country.

Expected Drops in Wind Speeds Promise Climate Disruption

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicts that average global wind speeds could drop by up to 10 percent by 2100.

Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading, in England, says, “Why do we have wind at all on the planet? It’s because of uneven temperatures; very cold at the poles and warm at the tropics. That temperature difference drives the winds, and that temperature difference is weakening. The Arctic is warming faster than the tropics.” A slowing in surface winds could disrupt the Gulf Stream, translating to widespread drought and more intense winter storms.

A study published in Nature shows the Arctic has been warming four times faster than the rest of the world since 1979, much faster than scientists estimated. An increase in the number and size of urban buildings that act as a drag on winds is another contributing factor. While temperature data goes back thousands of years, climate wind change studies only have 70 years of data to work with. Substantial annual fluctuations make long-term trends difficult to detect, and conclusions leave room for doubt. Yet Gisela Winckler, at the Columbia University Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory, writes, “The winds [will be] weaker and stiller.”

Charging Electric Vehicles at Night Poses New Challenge

As electric vehicle (EV) owners learn how to install home chargers, find public charging stations and avoid range anxiety, the demand for power could burden the electric grid in western states at peak times by up to 25 percent if most charging is done at night, according to one Stanford University study. Unlike filling a car with gasoline, charging an electric car takes time. The fastest chargers on the market today can reach 80 percent in 20 to 30 minutes, but many are slower, taking between two and 22 hours to completion. Thus, around 80 percent of EV charging occurs overnight at home when the driver doesn’t need the car.

That charging pattern challenges the way electricity is generated and distributed. The largest need overall is in the evening from approximately 5 to 9 p.m. Photovoltaic panels produce energy during the middle of the day, so the highest electricity demand comes when solar is dormant.

“Once 30 or 40 percent of cars are EVs, it’s going to start significantly impacting what we do with the grid,” says Ram Rajagopal, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Stanford University and one of the study’s authors. One solution is for more EV owners to shift to daytime charging at work or public charging stations.

Tree Roots Adapt to Sequester More Carbon

At the University of Birmingham in the UK and Bergen, Norway, scientists have shown that atmospheric carbon dioxide pumped into a mature forest at levels predicted to be the norm by 2050 will cause trees to produce more and longer roots, thus absorbing and storing more carbon.

Researcher Angeliki Kour mouli says, “We usually take soil for granted, but it forms a crucial part of many eco systems and plays a signifi cant role in carbon storage.”

The study team gathered thousands of images of tiny tree roots assembled over two years at the Birmingham Institute of Forest Research Free-Air CO2 Enrichment. The images were used to build a mathematical picture of the birth, growth and death of roots in an oak forest. Some images were taken of roots in situ using a high-resolution camera sent under the forest floor in a set of transparent tubes, and others came from soil cores.

Professor Iain Johnston, who led the study, says, “It’s obviously hard to view these processes going on beneath the ground. But a combination of innovative engineering and careful field and lab work from our team have helped us shed new light on this behavior and on how confident we can be in our findings.”

A Feast of Light

by Marlaina Donato

Despite the whirlwind of our to-do and places-to-go lists, the wheel of the year turns once more, allowing us to close another chapter of our lives with grace. If we take a breath, we might notice December’s invitation to kick off our shoes, curl up in our favorite chair and drop down into our heart space.

Whether we light scented candles for ambi ence, drink cocoa while sitting around a bonfire or continue time-honored spiritual customs, welcoming the light can ignite hope when we need it most. By cultivating the inner sun, that place deep within us that blazes with resilience and plenty, we not only fortify ourselves, but everyone around us. Throughout the year, many of us invest in making healthy choices, but neglect soul sustenance. Swapping trivial distractions for more face-to-face conversations, answer ing someone’s forgotten email or bringing a homemade pot of soup to a neighbor that is busy packing for a move creates a feast of light during all seasons.

“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle,” wrote Gautama Buddha, and perhaps we would be astounded to see how far the smallest gesture can travel. Inviting a friend that has no family to a

holiday dinner or out for coffee, spending more quality time with a child or buying a gift card for the receptionist at the dental office begets a chain reaction of small joys. When we fill our bellies with everyday magic, slow down to finish a cup of tea, turn off the news and notice the crescent moon nestled in the twilight, we become more inclined to feel blessed.

A few worthy inspirations to pass along:

n Make it a spiritual offering to choose joy today

n Close the year by letting go of a grievance or an outdated belief

n Tell someone how they bring light into your life

n Share a favorite book that is inspiring

n Acquire a new source of light—a lantern or salt lamp—for your favorite room

n Leave an uplifting quote on a loved one’s voicemail

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Nutrition Course

NEXT COURSE STARTS February 19 2023 and finishes July 23, 2023

Become a Certified Nutrition Consultant

Through the American Association of Nutritional Consultants (AANC) Doctor of Naturopathy and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Derek Rodger (ND) prepares students to pass the Certified Nutritional Consultants Exam. Once qualified you are entitled to use the designation CNC after your name and practice as a Nutritionist. Certified Nutritional Consultants (CNC) can work in hospitals, clinics, private practice settings alongside acupuncturists, mental health professionals, physical therapists, doctors and chiropractors, as well as a consultant in schools, businesses, health food stores, spas and health clubs.

Today's economists have determined that the natural health field is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. today. It goes without saying that people are getting more concerned about their personal health and their families health. Just take a look at this picture below and ask yourself, what type of life are you planning for yourself.

The course includes 11 modules and the classes meet on a Sunday morning 9-1 pm. The course fee is $1794 and can be paid over 6 months at $299.

To obtain a detailed information pack visit: NutritionConsultants.org or 908-223-8899

Transforming Our World

WORKING TOGETHER FOR MEANINGFUL CHANGE

by Linda Sechrist

With all the chaos occurring in the world today, it is challenging to remain centered and not feel overwhelmed. Every shocking headline seems to pull the proverbial rug out from under us. Thought leader Laureen Golden explains the dilemma this way: “Psychologically, we were raised, educated and socialized in a world that no longer really exists. We have a new world that we must navigate, and we need a new psychology, a whole new way of being for that world.

Reducing, compartmentalizing, separating things in order to understand them no longer works for us. It’s going to take work to get out of this paradigm.”

Drawing from her background in education and social work, Golden ponders, “How does that new psychology develop when all our institutions charged with cultivating consciousness— schools, families, religious institutions and organizations—are set in the 19th and 20th centuries? Since learning is how we go from

one paradigm to another, where do we go to learn the skills and the structures we need to be successful in such a complex world? We can’t do it individually. We must learn in collectives.”

The paradigm shift envisioned by Golden offers an opportunity for us to access innovative methods of learning, discovery and connection, such as sociocracy (a self-governance system based on the equality of its mem bers); systems thinking (an approach to complexity that looks at the whole and analyzes relationships, rather than splitting it into smaller pieces); permaculture (exploring natural ecosys tems as a whole); circle methods (thinking things through as a group); and Indigenous wisdom (focusing on the interconnect edness of all things).

All of these methods focus on an ethos of collaboration and teach us how to discern wisdom, which is different than knowledge. By engaging in these conversations and explorations, we learn that if we tug on any one part of the web of life, we tug the whole web—an important analogy for our times.

A Beloved Community Co-Creating an Island of Sanity Through Collaboration

Instead of shouting, “The sky is falling, and the seas are rising,” in response to a world that is unraveling and experiencing the growing realities of global warming, residents of St. Petersburg, Florida, are embracing resilience. To prove that the future is born in webs of human conversation, the city is counting on collective intelligence to emerge.

Among the tools city participants are employing is The World Café, developed by Juanita Brown and David Isaac, which allows people to host group conversations around thoughtful questions. The concept is designed to evoke deeper listening and give rise to solutions for today’s challenges in a more conscious, intentional and strategic way. Forty citizens have taken The World Café facilitation course. Employing a simple and flexible format for hosting large group dialogue, this methodology enables participants to clarify the context, create hospitable space, explore questions that matter, encour age everyone’s contribution, connect diverse perspectives,

listen together for patterns and insights, and share collective discoveries.

Other important work being applied is that of bestselling author and longtime community organizer Margaret Wheatley. Her training, which is designed to cultivate what she calls “Warriors of the Human Spirit,” arouses people’s inherent generosity, creativity, compassion and need for community. Known as a big-systems thinker throughout her 45-year career, Wheatley has concluded that the only opportunity for change is at the local level. Questions that encourage collective learning became integral to creating cohesiveness in St. Petersburg this year.

Dr. Donella Meadows’ “systems thinking” has helped St. Petersburg participants understand that living systems begin as networks, shift to intentional communities of practice and evolve into powerful systems capable of influence. Also instruc tive has been “complexity theory”, which helped participants recognize human systems as organizations, families and communities.

“The city leaders felt conversations were important enough to invest $20,000 to cultivate a culture of conversa tional leadership in the neighborhoods. Another $25,000 was granted by the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay to research the outcomes. Now, the Florida Council of Churches, University of South Florida, Community Foundation of Tampa Bay and The Connection Partners have received a Community Vibrancy grant of $14,500 to pilot conversations in three neighborhoods, spreading the skills in creating participatory democracy. Participants will host conversations in their own neighborhoods,” says St. Petersburg resident Sharon Joy Kleitsch, founder of The Connection Partners and a longtime catalyst for applying strategic actions based on the new sciences of complexity theory, strategic thinking and quantum science.

“Those who have used World Café as a tool know that a culture of conversational leadership offers citizens the opportunity to experience a sense of oneness and connectedness. We’ve explored what happens when we share feelings of care, compassion and appreciation toward a beloved community,” says Kleitsch. “We found that

group resonance, profound personal involvement and deeply engrossing, interactive conversation supports a City of Compassion and an International City of Peace, which St. Petersburg was chosen to be. I want to be sure that people understand that we do not have answers. Together, we are exploring pathways and listening for the answers to emerge.”

Since 2020, a thoughtfully selected group of Florida ac tivists—including participants from St. Petersburg—have been holding weekly online Zoom conversations that matter. In 2021, they were joined by participants from Ohio to study the Capra Course, which is based on The Systems View of Life: A Unifying Vision by bestselling author Fritjof Capra

“What we discovered after only two weeks was that we were ourselves a living system connecting to itself and becoming self-organized,” says Kleitsch. “We became aware that we were learning together. We were sharing what we were learning around subjects such as honoring Indigenous peoples, local food systems, the human right to clean water, reimaging capitalism and many more subjects. We’ve also bifurcated into a Sarasota [Florida] cohort. The key is, we were not random. We were a self-selected study group learning collaboratively, which is the best way I recommend activists study the Capra Course.”

theworldcafe.com theworldcafe.com theworldcafe.com

Argerie Vasilakes, who is researching outcomes, explains that her work is dedicated to helping teams, communities and organizations become more coherent. “I start with traditional ways of thinking about our relationships with nature that native peoples have never forgotten—humans are part of nature, not apart from nature,” she explains. “To me, human organizations, communities, families and governments

are also part of nature and examples of natural ecosystems. So, I naturally look at things from a living systems perspective.”

Vasilakes advises, “In a group that is learning together, such as those in the St. Petersburg neighborhoods, group conversations organized around questions specifically crafted for the context and desired purpose of the World Café evoke a deeper kind of listening, the most important factor determining the success of a Café. They spark learning conversations that can produce insights and innovation for meeting the challenges they face. Through practicing shared listening and paying attention to themes, patterns and insights, participants begin to sense a connection to the larger whole.”

According to Wheatley, the important work is to foster critical connections. She believes it is not necessary to convince large numbers of people to change; instead, she suggests we connect with kindred spirits. Through these relationships and tools like The World Café, we can develop the new knowledge, practices and commitment that lead to broad-based change.

Wheatley sometimes opens her interviews with an ancient Hopi prophecy that reads as if it were applicable to our current times: “Here now is a river flowing very fast. It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid, who will try to hold on to the shore. They are being torn apart and will suffer greatly. The elders say, ‘Let go of the shore, push off and go into the middle of the river. Keep your heads above the water. Know the river has its destination.’ The elders say, ‘See who is in there with

you and celebrate.’ At this time in history, we are to take nothing seriously; least of all, ourselves. Gather yourselves. Everything we do now must be done in a spirit of celebration, for we are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”

Seeing who is in the river of chaos with us, we can choose to respond with, “How can I serve with what I have, where I am?” This is what any Warrior of the Human Spirit would say because in the same river of chaos, there are also the seeds of transformation. In these turbulent times when all the old boundaries are unravelling and all the old certainties are dissolving, there is a possibility for creative transformation if we work together.

Linda Sechrist is Natural Awakenings’ senior staff writer.

TOOLS FOR CO-CREATING BELOVED COMMUNITIES

n TheWorldCafe.com

n New Dimensions Radio (NewDimensions.org)

n MargaretWheatley.com n DonellaMeadows.com

n A good explanation of comple xity theory is at Tinyurl.com/ ComplexityTheoryExplained n CapraCourse.net

n InternationalFuturesForum.com n SociocracyForAll.org

n Lynn McTaggart’s books, in cluding: Living with Intention: The Science of Using Your Thoughts to Change Your Life and the World and The Power of Eight: Harnessing the Miraculous En ergies of a Small Group to Heal Others and the World

Merry Brunching

PUT A HEALTHIER TWIST ON FAVORITE RECIPES

by Sheila Julson

When hosting a holiday brunch, it may be tempting to serve breakfast and lunch classics like quiche, eggs Benedict and huevos rancheros, but many of these dishes can be full of hidden calories, unhealthy fats and too much sodium. With a few easy modifications, healthier versions are possible.

According to Jessica Levinson, a New York registered dietitian and author of 52-Week Meal Planner, it’s important to read nutrition labels, remove empty calories and introduce nutritious alterna tives. As an example, yogurt and granola parfaits may seem innocent, but are often loaded with added sugar. “A serving size of most granolas is only one-quarter of a cup, which isn’t much, so use granola sparingly,” she says, adding that parfaits made with low-fat Greek yogurt and fresh fruit instead of jam are healthier choices.

Traditional quiches are usually made with heavy cream and a buttery pie crust. Levinson recommends a crustless vegetable frittata instead, as it is naturally gluten-free. “If you don’t want to skip the crust altogether, look for a pre-made, whole wheat crust or make your own,” she says. To eliminate dairy, consider us ing non-dairy milk and omitting cheese in the recipe.

For eggs Benedict, Levinson suggests skipping the hollandaise sauce, topping the poached eggs with mashed avocado and using a whole grain bread or English muffin for the base. “Instead of ham, try smoked salmon, which has beneficial omega-3 fatty acids,” she says.

Whole grain oats are a heart-healthy option, but oatmeal served brûlée-style is topped with additional sugar, notes Frances Largeman-Roth, a New York registered

dietitian and author of Smoothies & Juices. “It’s better to opt for oatmeal and fruit, with a drizzle of real maple syrup,” she says. Largeman-Roth likes mixing savory and sweet, to add variety and protein to the brunch plate. “Instead of just having a stack of pancakes, split it with your friends or family, and then have a small, veggie-filled omelet. You’ll feel much more satisfied.”

Planning the Holiday Brunch Spread

When putting together a menu, Levinson advocates incorporating all of the components of a balanced meal: lean protein, carbohydrates from whole grains, fruit and veggies, and low-fat dairy or plant-based substitutes. She says, “If you’re making pancakes or waffles, use whole grain flour when possible, and serve with a side of yogurt, fresh fruit and real maple syrup.”

According to Largeman-Roth, egg lovers will enjoy a veggie-packed omelet or frittata with either potatoes or bread on the side, but not both. Watch out for fried foods and use sauces and cream sparingly or find substitutes. If the fami ly is dining out, she cautions that brunch dishes are often served with extra sauces and syrups, adding sodium and sugar. “Try to ask for them on the side,” she ad vises. “It’s not about completely avoiding them, but it’s nice to be able to control the amount that you’re adding to your pancakes or waffles.”

This healthy dish is a crowd-pleaser any time of year. It’s also glutenfree and can be modified based on whatever veggies are on hand. Omit the feta cheese for a diary-free option.

YIELD: 4 TO 6

SERVINGS

2 Tbsp olive oil

1 cup diced yellow onion

1 Serrano or jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

1 cup diced yellow bell pepper

1 cup diced green zucchini

1 cup diced yellow summer squash

2 large garlic cloves, minced (1 heaping Tbsp)

1 tsp ground cumin

½ tsp turmeric

1 tsp sweet paprika

26-28 oz diced tomatoes

2 Tbsp tomato paste

2 tsp honey

1 tsp cider vinegar

1 cup corn, frozen, fresh or canned

½ tsp kosher salt

Freshly ground pepper

¾ cup crumbled feta cheese 4 large eggs

Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional) Za’atar, for garnish (optional)

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet (straightsided skillet is preferable). Add onions; sauté 2 minutes. Add Serrano pepper and bell peppers; sauté 4 minutes. Add zucchini and summer squash; sauté 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric and paprika; stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Reduce heat to medium and add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, cider vinegar and corn; stir in salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the sauce has thickened and reduced.

Turn off the heat and press the crumbled feta into the tomato sauce. With the back of a spoon, make 4 indentations in the sauce. Crack eggs one at a time into a small bowl and pour into each of the 4 indentations. Carefully drag a spatula gently through the egg whites, being sure not to disturb the yolks. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, gently stirring the sauce and basting the eggs with the sauce. Cover and cook another 3 to 5 minutes for runny eggs. Cook longer for well-done eggs. Serve with a sprinkling of parsley and za’atar, if desired.

Recipe courtesy of Jessica Levinson.

SHEET PAN PROTEIN PAN CAKES WITH BERRY SWIRL

Cooked on a sheet pan, these pancakes make cleanup a breeze and can be prepared the night before. Buttermilk and protein pow der add satisfying nutrients.

YIELD: 12 SERVINGS

Cooking spray

2 cups buttermilk

2 eggs, beaten

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

4 Tbsp melted ghee or unsalted butter

⅓ cup maple syrup

1¼ cups whole wheat flour

1 cup all-purpose flour

¼ cup vanilla protein powder

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

½ tsp sea salt

FOR THE SWIRL:

½ cup strawberries

½ cup blueberries

½ cup raspberries

1 tsp brown sugar

Powdered sugar, for topping

Preheat oven to 425° F. Line an 11-by-17-inch, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray parchment and sides of pan with cooking spray.  Whisk the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, ghee and maple syrup together in a medium bowl. Set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients—whole wheat flour and salt. Add the wet ingredients to the dry in three additions until just mixed. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Blend the berry swirl ingredients in a blender until smooth. Add ½ teaspoon of water if mixture is too stiff. Add small dollops of the berry mixture to the top of the pancake batter. Drag a wooden toothpick or skewer through the berry mixture to create a swirled pattern.

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 11 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool for about 5 minutes, then sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into 12 squares with a knife. Enjoy warm with maple syrup. Can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Frances Largeman-Roth.

CRANBERRY MIMOSAS

Cranberries put a holiday twist on a classic mimosa. Drier champagnes or sparkling wines are lower in sugar. Making cranberry juice from scratch with sweeteners like maple syrup or honey is a natural alternative to commercial cranberry juice. Prepare the cranberry juice the night before serving.

YIELD: 4 TO 8 SERVINGS

4 cups homemade (recipe below) or storebought cranberry juice

1 cup orange juice

1 bottle drier champagne, such as Ultra Brut Rosemary sprigs for garnish

Fill four champagne flutes or glassware of choice approximately halfway with cranberry juice. Add 2 Tbsp orange juice to each glass. Top each glass with champagne. Garnish with sprig of rosemary. Refill as desired.

Recipe courtesy of Sheila Julson.

HOMEMADE CRANBERRY JUICE

3 cups fresh cranberries

3 cups water

½ cup pure maple syrup or honey

Put fresh cranberries and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until the berries soften and pop.

Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the berries and return the juice to the pan. (Use leftover cranberries in smoothies, yogurt or relish.)

Gradually add maple syrup or honey until desired sweetness is achieved. Heat on low until sweetener dissolves.

Pour juice into an airtight bottle and refrigerate.

Recipe courtesy of Sheila Julson.

Holiday Treats for Cats and Dogs

by Tonya Wilhelm

The holidays are a great time to connect with loved ones, including family pets. Although treats bring such joy to their lives, keep in mind that not all foods around the holiday table are safe for dogs and cats. There are, however, plenty of pet-safe ingredients, some of which are actually beneficial.

Cranberries, for example, have been classified as a “superfood”, which means they provide many beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, such as vitamins C, E and K, plus manga nese. They are also high in fiber, which supports gut health. When feeding them to a pet, it is important to choose 100 percent cranberries that do not contain any sugars or preservatives.

When cooking up a batch of pet treats, coconut flour is healthier than the traditional, all-purpose flour, because it contains more fiber, protein and healthy fats. It is also gluten-free, making it a better alternative for pets with allergies.

Beef gelatin is chock-full of health benefits for pets, as it contains amino acids that help break down food, repair body tissue, support the immune system and provide energy. Among its numerous advantages, gelatin strengthens bones, muscles and cartilage, while also improving gut health, skin and fur. Always check the ingredient list. Use 100 percent gelatin and make sure there is nothing else included, especially Xylitol or birch sugar.

Sweet potatoes provide a wealth of nutrients from which both dogs and cats can benefit. They are a good source of fiber and high in antioxidants, including beta carotene, which is rich in vitamin A and supports good cognition and lung strength.

Turkey breast supplies a wide range of B vitamins, including B6 and B12. It also provides iron, potassium, zinc and selenium, which help support a healthy immune system.

All of these treats make great pres ents. Place them in a decorative container and gift them to pet-loving friends and family.

Tonya Wilhelm is a professional dog trainer with a holistic approach. For more informa tion, visit RaisingYourPetsNaturally.com.

SWEET POTATO GUMMIES

This recipe is cat-friendly, but a kitty may not dive into the delight.

YIELD: DEPENDS ON MOLD SIZE

3 cups water

½ cup sweet potato

3 Tbsp beef gelatin

Silicone molds and cookie sheet

Measuring cup with a spout for pouring

Boil 2 cups of water. Remove the skin from a sweet potato. Dice the sweet potato and place ½ cup into the boiling water. Boil until the sweet potato is soft and then drain

HEALTHY CRANBERRY

FOR PETS

it. Mash the sweet potato into a smooth consistency and set it next to the stove.

In a small saucepan, boil one cup of water. Once the water reaches a boil, quickly whisk in the gelatin. When the gelatin is dissolved, lower the heat and add the mashed sweet potato and stir over the heat. Pour the mixture into the measuring cup. Then quickly pour the hot liquid into the silicone molds. Don’t fill to the top. Because many silicone molds are floppy, place them on a cookie sheet prior to filling them.

The molds will need to be refrigerated to cool, so find a spot before pouring. Be ready: The gelatin will start to set up very quickly. Carefully place the molds into the refrigerator to set up for approximately three hours.

Remove the treats from the molds and break them into bite-sized pieces before feeding to pets. Store the gummies in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze until ready to serve. Thaw completely before serving.

MUFFINS

These muffins are full of flavor and nutrition, and are healthy for both dogs and cats, although a finicky cat may turn her nose up to them.

YIELD: VARIES

1 cup coconut flour

5 eggs

⅓ apple or ⅓ cup diced apple

⅓ cup liquid (water, or bone broth)

2 cups water

¼ cup cranberries

2 Tbsp melted coconut oil

1 tsp baking soda

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water. Place 2 cups of water into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Place the clean cranberries into the water and boil until they pop, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the cranberries. Set the cranberries aside to cool.

Remove the seeds and core from the apple. Dice ⅓ of the apple into small bits.

Mix the flour, eggs, apple, ⅓ cup liquid, melted coconut oil, cooked cranberries and baking soda in a large mixing bowl until well-blended.

Grease a muffin tin with coconut oil. Fill the muffin tins ⅔ full and place them into the oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Carefully remove and place on a cooling rack. Serve as a special treat. Place treats in a glass contain er and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze until ready to serve. Thaw completely before serving.

EASY TURKEY JERKY FOR PETS

This easy turkey recipe will have felines purring with delight. It’s a healthy snack for a cat and a great dog-training treat for the clever pooch.

YIELD: VARIES

Fresh, boneless and skinless turkey breast

Thinly slice the turkey breast into strips—the thinner, the better. Place strips on a dehydrator tray. Do not overlap the strips. Dehydrate at 145° F until the turkey is crispy, which can take between eight to 12 hours.

Allow the turkey to cool completely before removing it from the trays. Break into little bite-sized treats for cats and dogs. Store the jerky in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze until ready to serve. Thaw com pletely before serving.

photo by by Tonya Wilhelm

photo by by Tonya Wilhelm

SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAYS

EASY TIPS FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY SEASON

by Kirby Baldwin

The holidays are upon us, and that means decking the halls, gathering with loved ones, exchanging gifts and treats—and creating a lot of waste in the process. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, Americans throw away 25 percent more trash than at any other time of year. That’s 1 million extra tons each week, primarily due to waste from holiday gifts and décor. Fortunately, there are ways to cut down on consumption to lessen the environmental impact of the holiday season without sacrificing any joy.

Savor Local Fare

Ditch grocery store lines and instead shop for the holiday meal at a nearby family farm. By participating in the local food move-

ment, we will not only enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients while supporting the local economy, but also sustain farms that build soil health, promote animal well-being and offer a more delicious and nutritionally superior final product. Purchasing food directly from farmers also eliminates the extra packaging and the carbon footprint of transportation that comes with store-bought goods.

In addition to offering fruits and vegetables for holiday pies and soufflés, regional farms can also be good sources for locally sourced grains, holiday meats, baked goods and cheeses. Festive cocktails can be purchased from a neighborhood distillery, brewery or winery, many of which source their ingredients from local farmers.

Ronald Mirante, founder of Bone-In Food, runs a weekly food

delivery service that provides only sustainable, nutrient-dense foods sourced from local farm partners. According to Mirante, “Shopping for food locally with your farmers for the holiday helps them move offerings they have raised all season long. This empowers the local food community and makes their operations sustainable by preventing food waste and allowing for economic preparation for next year’s harvest.”

For a state-by-state directory of local farmers of meat, eggs and dairy products from 100 percent pastured animals, visit EatWild. com. A directory of family farms and farmers markets, along with restaurants and grocery stores that feature locally produced food, can be found at LocalHarvest.org.

Gift Greener

Instead of using unrecyclable gift wrapping paper, switch to a recycled alternative or wrap gifts in pieces of fabric, newsprint or kraft paper that can be repurposed or recycled. To eliminate shopping and wrapping altogether, give the gift of an experience, which allows loved ones to create lasting memories.

Cater experiential gifts to the needs and wants of the recipient. An exhausted new parent will appreciate a restaurant gift certificate or a coupon to pay for a babysitter. Give the budding golfer lessons with a local pro, the theater lover tickets to an upcoming show and the selfless caregiver a spa treatment to help them feel pampered and refreshed. For the person that seems to have everything, make a donation in their name to a worthy cause that matters deeply to them.

According to publishing executive and mother Tacy Quinn, who runs the Instagram account @friluftslivingfamily, “As our kids get older, we love to find outdoor adventure ideas that are fun to do as a family and get us off our screens. One of our holiday gift-giving traditions each year is to purchase or renew a membership to a local nature organization. Many organizations have great family programs that are included with yearly member ships, so this annual gift means we get a whole year of outdoor ex periences to enjoy together. We’ve gone on full-moon hikes, tapped and harvested our own maple syrup, enjoyed solstice bonfire par ties and more. Giving a membership gift helps everyone enjoy the outdoors and sustain the natural places we love.”

When it’s not possible to gift an experience, shop locally for gifts made of natural materials, such as a beautiful, wooden, cutting board, a cozy pair of wool socks or a piece of pottery handmade by local artisans. Christmas stockings can create unnecessary waste for the sake of filling them to the brim. Try replacing plastic odds and ends with fruits, nuts or handmade treats like cookies or gra nola for more sustainable—and tastier—stocking stuffers.

Deck the Halls

For the most sustainable holiday tree, opt for a potted or locally cut, native choice. Live trees protect the soil, serve as wildlife habitats and filter the air during the six to eight years they’re growing. They also create local jobs. After the holidays are over, the potted trees can be planted. Cut live trees should either be mulched or recycled, rather than thrown in a landfill.

Merry and Bright

Making just a few simple swaps in gifting, feasting and decorating will ease holiday consumption and lessen its environmental impacts without subtracting any of the joy.

Kirby Baldwin writes for KnoWEwell, the regenerative whole health hub and a collaborative partner of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.

Katecat/AdobeStock.com

New Africa/AdobeStock.com

Daisy Daisy/AdobeStock.com

The Best Gift of All

TEACHING CHILDREN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING

by Madiha Saeed

Teaching children the value of generosity and kindness is not just good for the world, it is good for our kids, too. Studies have shown that acts of altruism can boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, increase self-esteem, reduce de pression and lower stress levels. Selfless contributions also can foster a sense of belonging, whether they are donating material things, sharing their time or freely conveying love and kindness. A magnanimous child is repaid with benefits that nourish the body and soul.

Empathy and Mirror Neurons

To transform children into givers, they need to learn how to share and comprehend other people’s feelings. Known as cognitive empathy, it involves understanding another person’s emotions on an intellectual level, taking into consideration their situation and anticipating how they might react.

Since the 1990s, scientists have been re searching mirror neurons which respond to actions that we observe in the same way as when we actually perform those actions ourselves. These neurons play a considerable role in the development of speech, language, learning, emotional intelligence, empathy and understand ing, so children need to see and receive acts of giving and love to become givers themselves.

Giving Heals

With mental health conditions in children on the rise, charitable behavior can improve their mental well-being and help them secrete “feel-good” chemicals in the brain like oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin. “I think helping our kids experience the happiness that comes from giving to others is probably one of the most valuable ways we can nurture generosity in them,” says Lara Aknin, an assistant professor of psychology at Simon Fraser University, in Canada. “It sets off this positive cycle. Giving makes people happy and happiness promotes giving.”

Functional MRIs of people that donate to charities have shown that the act of giving stimulates reward centers of the brain where endorphins are released. These hormones lower cortisol, improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve digestion, clear out toxins, help the immune system fight infections and renew energy to repair cells and fight cancer. Other benefits include lower inflammation overall, improved sleep, decreased feelings of restlessness and reductions in chronic pain.

Giving and Social Support

Random Acts of Kindness and Generosity

Random acts of kindness and generosity include smiling, holding the door open for someone and reaching out to loved ones. Include a child in these activities and encourage them to do the same. “When you see your children being generous, point it out and praise them,” recommends The Center for Parenting Education.

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Ad Proof for Natural Awakenings

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The most important ingredient to develop a child with a healthy brain and body is love. Children need positive experiences for pathways in their brain and body to work. Developing empathy for themselves and others increases emotional strength and self-regulation. Improve the life of a child— physically, emotionally and spiritually—by teaching them the simple of act of giving.

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Love and secure attachments, such as those experienced through acts of giving, strengthen the body; help regulate emotions, attention and behavior; mitigate the effects of stress; and promote lifelong, healthy development.

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Volunteering

Madiha Saeed, M.D., ABIHM, is the bestselling author of The Holistic RX, an international speaker, founder of HolisticMomMD.com and director of education for KnoWEwell.com.

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Volunteering makes an immeasurable difference in the lives of others and creates a sense of purpose in the person doing it. Science has shown that engaging in volunteer work can decrease depression, reduce stress, increase longevity and help the person stay mentally and physically active. Volunteers get to meet others, develop new relationships and strengthen existing relationships with those that have similar goals and interests. There are many op portunities for children and parents to volunteer through school, religious and nonprofit organizations.

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Tom’s Dog “Axl”

Natural Virus Killer

Copper can stop a virus

before it starts

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast. Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria that cause illness.

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

Hundreds of studies confirm copper kills viruses and bacteria almost instantly just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

“The antimicrobial activity of copper is well established.” National Institutes of Health.

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

The EPA recommended hospitals use copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made a smooth copper probe

with a tip to fit in the bottom of the nostril, where viruses collect.

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

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never happened. I used to get 2-3 bad colds every year. Now I use my device whenever I feel a sign I am about to get sick.”

He hasn’t had a cold in 10 years.

Users say:

“It works! I love it!”

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

“Is it supposed to work that fast?” “One of the best presents ever.” “Sixteen flights, not a sniffle!”

“Cold sores gone!”

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

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

“Best sleep I’ve had in years!”

After his first success with it, he asked relatives and friends to try it. They all said it worked, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

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

Longtime users say they haven’t been sick in years. They have less stress, less medical costs, and more time to enjoy life.

Soon people found other things they could use it against.

Colds

Flu

Virus variants

Sinus trouble

Cold sores

Fever blisters

Canker sores

Strep throat

Night stuffiness

Morning congestion

Nasal drip

Infected sores

Infected wounds Styes Warts Ringworm Other microbial threats

The handle is curved and textured to increase contact. Copper can kill germs picked up on fingers and hands after you touch things other people have touched.

The EPA says copper works just as well when tarnished.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the science teams. He placed millions of viruses on a copper surface. “They started to die literally as soon as they touched it.”

CopperZap® is made in the USA of pure copper. It has a 90-day full money back guarantee. Price $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA33.

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. Buy once, use forever.

Statements are not intended as product health claims and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New research: Copper kills viruses in seconds.

calendar of events

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

Meet Your Spirit Guides 9:30-12:30 with Jacque line LeClaire, Certified Hypnotherapist and Reiki Master. Spirit guides are always there to help us and guide us on our journeys in life and our lives can be deeply enriched by meeting and connecting with them. They do not tell you how to run your lives but provide gentle encouragement and support to keep us on the path of our true destiny. $55 Results Well ness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

Restorative Yoga with Sound Healing & Aromatherapy 1:30-3:30 This class is designed with gentle floor-based sequences using bolsters, blankets, and props that support the practitioner to fully relax the muscles, slow down the mental activity of the brain, shift emotional patterns, bring ease to the breath, and tune into the nervous system’s healing capacity. $35 Results Wellness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6

Learn to be a Certified Hypnotist online in only 20 evenings! In person classes also available. Instructor Tina Pineiro will prepare you to use hyp nosis to help clients make positive, transformational changes in their lives. Payment plans available. scrantonhypnosis.com. (844) HYP-TINA.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

Holiday Spiritual & Holistic Bazaar – 10am5pm. Enjoy vendors of crystals, jewelry, gemstone trees, soaps and bath products, artwork, clothing, pet products, singing bowls and more, along with reiki and reflexology practitioners, tarot, and readers, plus a benefit raffle and auction. Free ad mission. Leesport Farmers Market Banquet Hall, 312 Gernants Church Rd, Leesport. 570-573-1651. LadyLynora.com/Holiday-Bazaar.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

How to Hypnotize Yourself and Others 9:00-5:00 with Jacqueline LeClaire, Certified Hypnotherapist. You will learn how information flows through our brain and how to control thoughts, the seven steps of self-hypnosis, and how to hypnotize your friends

and family for conditions such as weight loss, smoking cessation, and building self-confidence. Includes workbook and certificate of completion. $150 Results Wellness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

Emotional Freedom Technique 9:00-12:00 with Jacqueline LeClaire, Certified Hypnotherapist and Reiki Master. The emotional freedom technique (EFT) is a method used to help manage emotions and troubling thoughts. It may also be used to lower stress and anxiety. EFT is also called tapping. This is because to do EFT, you tap your fingertips on certain points on your hand, head, and torso which are like those used in acupuncture. $55 Results Well ness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

Reiki and Readings 1:00-4:00 with Mandy Mo lina & Jacqueline LeClaire, Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master and Intuitive Angel Card Reader. $30 each. Receive free collagen and biotin aloe green tea with the purchase of both. Fuze Nutrition, 848 Nazareth Pike, Nazareth, PA (484) 264-3889.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14

Anxiety and Depression Relief with Effortless Meditation™ 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm. This meditation technique is recommended by physicians as a key to self-care. Gain relief from - insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, Twin Ponds Holistic Health Center, West LV - Breinigsville, Pre-register Phone: 610.670.6700.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

Reiki Level l Training and Certification 10:004:00 with Jacqueline LeClaire Reiki Master (day 1 of 2-day training). How to do hands-on healing on self and others, animals, and plants. Creating a healing space and attitude. Feeling and enhancing the energy field. Includes Training Manual $295 and both days. Results Wellness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18

Reiki Level l Training and Certification 10:004:00 with Jacqueline LeClaire Reiki Master. (day 2 of 2-day training). How to do hands-on healing on self and others, animals and plants. Creating a healing space and attitude. Feeling and enhancing the energy field. Includes Training Manual $295 and both days. Results Wellness Center, Bath, PA. Preregister (484) 264-3889.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20

Anxiety and Depression Relief with Effortless Meditation™ 12 noon – 1:00 pm. This meditation technique is recommended by physicians as a key to self-care. Gain relief from -insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ON LINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610.670.6700.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28

Anxiety and Insomnia Relief with Effortless Medita tion™ 7:00 pm – 8:15 pmThis meditation technique is recommended by physicians as a key to self-care. Gain relief from -insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610.670.6700.

ongoing events

PLANS CHANGE

Please call ahead to confirm date and times daily

Narcotics Anonymous – If you think you have a drug problem, and are tired of being sick and tired, there is a better way. Call 24-hour helpline 610439-1998. We are here to help. You are not alone.

sunday

Sunday Services – Metaphysical and nondenominational. Rev. Lloyd Moll, PastorUnique Sunday services 10:30am. All welcome! St. John’s Church of Faith, 607 Washington St Allentown. 610-776-7211.

Co-D ependent Anonymous – CoDA is a 12-Step Fellowship of men and women with a common purpose to recover from codependence. The only requirement for membership in CoDA is a desire for healthy and loving relationships. 7pm, Unity Church, 26 N. 3rd St., Emmaus. Call 610-737.-354 or visit Coda.org.

Yoga to Soothe the Soul – Gentle yoga to restore balance and release stress. Cost: donations $5$15 suggested. Every Sunday at 6pm starting on February 7, 2021. Contact Info: www. rebeccarosereiki.com. Call: 484-280-4963.

wednesday

LV Lyme Support Group – First Wednesday of every month except July. Zoom calls only. Contact Heidi Healey at 973-610-0531 if interested. Speakers, Doctors, brochures and books. PA is #1 in reported cases, so we help educate the public. We also post in Lehigh Valley Lyme Support Group on Facebook and Pennsylvania Lyme Resource Network on Facebook.

OPPORTUNITIES

Calling Holistic Presenters – Facilitate your workshop or retreat at our Upper Bucks center, with peaceful country setting, meditation gardens, and woods. GreenShireArts.org. Email info@ GreenShireArts.org or call 215-538-0976.

Holistic Chiropractor, Naturopath or Natural Functional Medicine Practitioner Needed Join our comprehensive solution Wellness Center in Stroudsburg. Access to over 2000 clients in a professional, dedicated facility. Call Vicki at 570977-1900 to discuss.

PRODUCTS

Crystal Tones Singing Bowls – Classic & Alchemy for meditation & vibrational healing. Also offering personal vibration testing. Contact Anthony at Life Holistic Center, 570-706-6680 or LifeHolistic@hotmail.com. See more at Life HolistiReiki.com.

Interactive Dementia and Alzheimer Game An interactive and fun family game that will bring a twinkle to the eye and smile on the face. Call 484860-5894. HighRollDice.com.

Two Green Burial Plots for Sale – At Green Meadows Burial Ground in Fountain Hill, PA. $1,800 total.Call 610-698-4921.

SERVICES

Spiritually guided card readings offered in per son, or via phone, parties also welcome. Channeled messages are for your highest good. Let my gifts guide you! Reasonable rates. Cheryl 908-268-8029.

Readings with intuitive counselor, Reiki also available. Free 10-minute initial session. Evelyn peptel62@gmail.com. 551-804-7571.

Free Phone Reading for Lightworkers. Your Higher-Self reveals the blocks that are slowing you from growing your practice/business. Email Enaid to learn more. enaid-rensporp@protonmail.com

Kula Heart Yoga & Wellness, LLC contracts self motivated and ethical bodyworkers and yoga instructors to serve Bath and the Lehigh Valley. If you are interested in growing your business, making your own hours and being a part of a Wellness Center that is filled with compassion, professionalism, and FUN! Submit your interest to info@kulaheartyogaandwellness.com.

SPACE TO RENT

Attention Health Care Professionals! Twin Ponds Health Center, a highly diverse holistic health center, offers a unique lease opportunity. Schedule a tour of the site. 610-899-2499.

Peaceful Country Setting – Building includes 4 gathering rooms, kitchen, and covered porch. Wood ed paths, meditation gardens. Perfect for workshops, weddings, retreats. Quakertown. Call 215-538-0976.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE

BALANCED ACUPUNCTURE

Heather Shoup, L.Ac. 2299 Brodhead Rd., Suite A Bethlehem, PA 18020 610-393-7589

BalancedAcupuncture.net

A patient centered wellness com munity, where treatment is indi vidually tailored. Heather pro motes health and wellness by creating balance in the body. Acu puncture specializing in anxiety, depression, digestive, and cancer support.

LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC

Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac. Dr. Jennifer K. Bollinger, DC, L.Ac. 8026 Hamilton Blvd. • Trexlertown, PA 18087 610-395-5509

LiveWellIntegratedHealth.com

LiveWell Integrated Health of fers traditional Chinese acu puncture, chiropractic, body work, and nutritional and life style coaching. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice...choose to LiveWell. See ad, page 13.

BODYWORK

MARIE RUXTON THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Marie Ruxton CMT, CN 628 Chestnut St., Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-2500

Marie is a certified massage thera pist trained since 1997 in Ad vanced Myofascial Release Ther apy, Therapeutic Massage, Reiki, Ear Candling, Homeopathy and Holistic Nutrition. Offers compre hensive custom bodywork for those wanting to overcome chron ic pain and movement problems. Sessions range from a (2 hour) Head to Toe meltdown massage to “Just Neck and Head” massage for those needing stress relief. Gift certificates available See ad, page 25.

CHIROPRACTOR

ASSOCIATED CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Joseph A. Perelli 656 5th St. Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111

AssociatedChiropractic.com

Dr. Perelli has served the Lehigh Valley for 31 years delivering natural, hands-on chiropractic care for neck, mid-back, low back and extremity conditions. He spe cializes in sports, auto and work comp injuries with various holis tic treatments to get you back to your pre-injury status quickly. See ad, page 4.

LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC

Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac. Dr. Jennifer K. Bollinger, DC, L.Ac. 8026 Hamilton Blvd. • Trexlertown, PA 18087 610-395-5509

LiveWellIntegratedHealth.com

LiveWell Integrated Health offers traditional Chinese acu puncture, chiropractic, body work, and nutritional and life style coaching. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice...choose to LiveWell. See ad, page 13.

CLINICAL NUTRITIONIST

BETHLEHEM NUTRITION & WELLNESS CENTER

Kathy Harrington, MS

Functional Medical Nutritionist 3400 Bath Pike, Ste. 101 Bethlehem 610-419-3909

www.BethlehemNutrition.com

Bethlehem Nutrition & Wellness Center, we give you the tools to bring you and your family into a state of optimal health. Using the most advanced nutritional testing available, we look for the under lying cause of your health prob lems. Once the underlying cause is addressed not only do symptoms go away, but your overall health can also be greatly improved. See ad page 11.

COUNSELING - HOLISTIC

SMART SOLUTIONS AND CREATIVE HOLISTIC THERAPY

Rev. Lyn S. Felix, MSW, LCSW, CHT, RM 3037 S. Pike Ave. #105, Allentown, PA 18103 610-282-0709

CreativeHolisticTherapy.com

A holistic, highly intuitive coun selor, coach and vibrational chakra rebalancing practitioner who sup ports you in getting unstuck and moving forward. Using mindful ness, hypnotherapy, EFT, Reiki, tuning forks, breathwork, and more, Rev. Lyn guides you step by step from chaos to calm and confidence. Insurances & Private Pay. Free Phone Consultation.

DEPRESSION

TMS CENTER

Dr. Paul Gross 401 N. 17th St., Suite 304 Allentown, PA 610-820-0700 www.Tmslv.com

Thousands in the Lehigh Valley struggle with depression every day, but thanks to the TMS Cen ter of the Lehigh Valley, they are not alone in their fight. We are the region’s first transcranial mag netic stimulation (TMS) treat ment facility and one of the most experienced centers on the east coast, having per formed over ten thousand TMS treatments. See ads, pages 5 & 14.

EQUINE THERAPY

EQUINE ALLIANCE FOR TRANSFORMATION AND HEALING, LLC

Robin Michael Macungie, PA 484-207-6457 EquineAlliances.com Info@EquineAlliances.com

We facilitate learning and healing with the partner ship of horses through ex periences that cultivate personal growth and selfdiscovery. We foster peace and hope while empowering individuals/groups to rely upon resilience and confidence when faced with challenges. Sessions include Horses, Equine Specialists and Licensed Counselor or Coach/Edu cator. Activities are ground-based. Experience with horses is not needed.

FOOD & NUTRITION

HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES AND

Cafe Santosha

Dianne & Lloyd Burg 7150 Hamilton Blvd Trexlertown, PA 610-366-9866 www.HealthyAlt.com

Dianne and Lloyd Burg opened Healthy Alter natives in 1994 to help people live a healthy lifestyle. As a registered nurse, Dianne saw a lot of hospital patients who weren’t getting better with traditional treatment. She started studying natural remedies to help them heal. Dietary changes and homeopathy seemed promising, but no one offered these solutions. The Burgs wanted to change that, so they decided to open Healthy Alternatives. See ad page 12.

FUNERAL SERVICES

NICOS C. ELIAS

FUNERAL HOME, INC

Nicos C. Elias, Supervisor Allentown, PA 610-433-2200 Nicos@EliasFuneralHome.com EliasFuneralHome.com

Mr. Elias offers several different green and eco-friendly funeral plans using biodegradable cas kets, preservation without chemi cals. A natural, back to the earth approach. Biodegradable urns for those choosing cremation.

GREEN CEMETERY

GREEN MEADOWS AT FOUNTAIN HILL CEMETERY

1121 Graham Street, Fountain Hill, PA 18015 610-868-4840 GreenMeadowPA.org

The only green cemetery in the Le high Valley. A cemetery of wild flowers and grasses native to Penn sylvania. Return to the natural cycle of life to nourish the soil, green the meadow and live on. Nondenominational. Non-profit. Speakers available to visit organi zations. See ad, page 15.

HEALTH FOOD & SUPPLEMENT STORE

CBD AMERICAN SHAMAN

7727 Glenlivet Dr West, Ste D Fogelsville PA 18051 484-656-7771 cbdfogelsville.com

Including high-quality CBD into your daily routine can change your health for the bet ter. Our certified consultants will show you why we were voted Best CBD Store by Readers’ Choice in 2021.

HYPNOSIS & HYPNOSIS TRAINING

PAST LIFE MATTERS HYPNOTHERAPY plmhypnosis.com Judy Lynch 610-554-8633 pastlifematters@aol.com

As a certified hypnotherapist that has used hypnotherapy to quit smoking, reduce stress, help control pain, and in crease focus, I can attest to the power of the mind to achieve desired results! Hypnosis is easy and safe and allows us to tap into the power of our inner selves, easily and naturally.

TINA PINEIRO LIFE SOLUTIONS (844) HYP-TINA scrantonhypnosis.com

TINA PINEIRO LIFE SOLU TIONS provides Mindset Coach ing & Hypnosis sessions. Peck ville and Honesdale locations. I use hypnosis, neuro-linguistic programming, EFT, Reiki and more to empower you to let go of limiting beliefs, heal and move forward.

Call 610-421-4443 for more information

RESULTS WELLNESS CENTER, LLC

Jacqueline LeClaire

6120 W. Main Blvd., Bath, PA 18014 484-264-3889

JacquelineLeClaire.com

Become a Certified Hypnotherapist / Become a Certified Reiki Practi tioner, Usui Master. Jacqueline LeClaire is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master Trainer with the International Association of Counselors and Therapists and Reiki Master for over two decades. She is the owner of Results Wellness Center, LLC.

TENDER EMPOWERMENT

Tenderempowerment.com 484-373-9693

Becka@tenderempowerment.com

Tender Empowerment uses hypnosis, coaching and other methods to create personal change. Whether you are looking to lose weight, quit smoking, manage stress, overcome phobias, or help with chronic pain, Tender Empowerment can help. Schedule a free phone consultation to learn more. Become the you, you can be!

INTEGRATIVE PHYSICIANS

HUNTERDON INTEGRATIVE PHYSICIANS

Dr. Scott P R Berk, MD, AAFP, AIHM 33 Rupell Rd Hampton, NJ 08827 908-238-0077

HipmdOffice@gmail.com www.HunterdonIntegrativePhysicians.com

Hunterdon Integrative Physicians (HIP) presents an alternative to the average Primary Care office. You will find a modern medical practice in every sense of the word. We strive to offer our patients an array of diagnostic options, treatment choices, and scheduling flexibility. If you are looking for a common-sense approach to your health needs, look no further than HIP. See ad page 9.

LANDSCAPING

BEAR CREEK ORGANICS 570-582-0615

BearCreekOrganics@gmail.com

BearCreekOrganics.com

We create organic and ecological edible land scapes. With mother nature as our teacher, and extensive knowl edge of edible plants,. We develop beautiful food production systems that support your needs and the needs of the natural wildlife. No matter the size of your budget we will help you create an edible landscape that is right for you. See ad, pages 10.

MARKETING

NATURAL AWAKENINGS

DR. DEKA RODGER ND, MBA Owner/Publisher 610-421-4443

DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com DrRodgerND@gmail.com www.HealthyLehighValley.com www.DrRodgerND.com www.NutritionConsultans.org DrRodgerND.B3Sciences.com

Due to his extensive background in business and marketing and built his own practice through the Natural Awakenings magazine he can take businesses to the next level. Also, with a strong back ground in keeping fit and under standing all aspects of exercising, he promotes B3 Science, an advanced method of achieving better fitness results in 1/2 the time. He also teaches a Nutrition Certification Course over a 6-month period, students completing this course and passing all exams can put the designation CNC after their name. See ad pages 5, 19, back page.

MASSAGE/ESTETICS

HEALING WELLNESS CORNER

Jamie Brotzman LMT, LE 101 N 4th Street Easton, PA 18042 484-861-7287

www.HealingWellnessCorner.com

Jamie had worked at the top sa lons and spas in the Lehigh Val ley and the surrounding area, as well as chiropractor offices be fore deciding to bring her knowl edge and love for her work to cre ate her own space. Here at The Healing & Wellness Corner, Ja mie shares her extensive expertise in acneic, hy persensitive, and age-appropriate skin care treat ments and much more.

MASSAGE

KONNECTIONS MASSAGE

Kathy Hatcher, LMT 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111

KonnectionsMassage.com

Kathy has been administering deep tissue, therapeutic, medical, preg nancy and aromatherapy massage since 1996. Her NEWEST services are Ionic Foot Cleanse Detoxifica tion as well as Red-light therapy for non-surgical weight loss and chronic pain management. Insur ance billing for massage available. See ad, page 4.

MICHELLE LEE ARTS

Lake Harmony, PA 570-443-7777

MichelleLeeArts.com

Helping people reclaim their flame by deepening connections to our inner selves, each other and the natural world. A holistic mind, body, spirit approach, Michelle’s transformative YogART Work shops and Tantra Rituals include a mystical mix of meditation, yoga, intuitive art, breathwork and other empowerment exercises to support self-healing, remove blocks and supercharge your life.

NATUROPATH

NATURAL HEALTH PROMOTION LLC

Tina Stashko, PhD MIfHI Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-8132

NaturalHealthPromotion.net

Specializing in preventative health care, digestion and nutrient absorp tion, and thyroid and adrenal health. Modalities such as iridology, sclerology and biochemical balanc ing enable the development of your unique program for optimum health. These programs are easy to follow and incorporate into your daily life. Reach your full health potential! See ad, page 25.

REIKI

EVELYN JABOUR 551-804-7571 peptel62@gmail.com

I am a Reiki Master and Intuitive Counselor, and can help you work through difficult emotions and sit uations. Call or text me at 551804-7571, or email me at pep tel62@gmail.com, for a complimentary 10-minute initial reading.

WELLNESS SPAPOTHECARY

HERBS TO YOUR SUCCESS

Vanessa Sabatine

64 South Main St. Nazareth, PA 18064 610-365-8996

www.HerbsToYourSuccess.com

Herbs to Your Success is a health & wellness spa located in Naza reth, offering multiple holistic spa experiences and herbal remedies. We also offer a wide selection of essential oils, teas, skincare, make-up and more! We provide high quality spa services to our customers and our friendly and courteous staff guarantees exceptional customer service. See ad page 9.

Through the American Association of Nutritional Consultants (AANC) Doctor of Naturopathy and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Derek Rodger (ND) prepares students to pass the Certified Nutritional Consultants Exam. Once qualified you are entitled to use the designation CNC after your name and practice as a Nutritionist. Certified Nutritional Consultants (CNC) can work in hospitals, clinics, private practice settings alongside acupuncturists, mental health professionals, physical therapists, doctors and chiropractors, as well as a consultant in schools, businesses, health food stores, spas and health clubs.

The Next Nutrition Course

“If

Today's economists have determined that the natural health field is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. today. It goes without saying that people are getting more concerned about their personal health and their families health. Just take a look at this picture below and ask yourself, what type of life are you planning for yourself.

in 6 Months and put the letters CNC after your name. This recognized qualification is obtained through the American Association of Nutritional Consultants, AANC.

The course includes 12 modules, and classes meet twice a month on Sundays 9 am - 1pm . All modules are taught by Dr. Derek Rodger (ND). Course fee is $1794 and can be paid over 6 monthly installments at $299 per month.

Natalie, who flew in from Chicago every 2 weeks to do the CNC program has passed her Certified Nutritional Consultant and can now proudly put the letters CNC after her name: I met Dr. Rodger (ND) before I took his Nutrition Course and it was his knowledge and experience that drew me to choose his class over others. I am so very glad I did as, I'm positive I wouldn't have learnt what I did with other teachers.  I'm not sure I would have had such an inspirational teacher with highly motivational lectures.

Alessandra, already had her nutritional degree, before she came on the course. I'm so proud of myself for finishing this the course and the exam. It was a great experience and I truly learned a lot. There are so many opportunities out there for me in my career to help others. I'll be attending the Natural Gourmet Institute which has a strong focus on a plant based diet. I look forward to helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle as a CNC and chef!

The course includes 11 modules and the classes meet on a Sunday morning 9-1 pm. The course fee is $1794 and can be paid over 6 months at $299.

If you would like to attend this educational course, which will clearly change your life from a nutritional perspective. More detailed information is sent out to students who are interested, sign up by going to: www.NutritionalConsultants.org

A library of material becomes yours following course completion.