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Is your body telling you it needs help?

Do new symptoms creep up on you too fast?

Have dietary modifications failed to provide relief?

Help is a phone call away.

Reneé Barasch, Certified Digestive Health and Detoxification Specialist, has been helping clients achieve nutritional balance and enhance quality of life for more than 17 years. Reneé’s individualized plans help clients re-boot their digestive tracts and increase absorption of needed nutrients—creating the environment for detoxification of all organs and the pathways between them.

Working with Reneé, you will:

• Identify digestive triggers. (Some may surprise you!)

• Understand which foods agree with you— and those that don’t.

• Create a detoxification and digestive plan.

Digestion is one of the main ways the body detoxifies and cleanses.

If the food you consume isn’t thoroughly broken down, your body cannot work as efficiently as it should. Poor digestion causes stress for the entire digestive system and leads to gas, bloating, acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea and even insomnia, psoriasis, eczema, chronic pain, and anxiety. Undigested food can seep into the bloodstream through a condition called “leaky gut syndrome,” which often leads to more serious conditions like Crohn’s Disease, colitis, and other autoimmune disorders.

Environmental irritants also affect digestion.

The environment can also produce irritation and inflammation. Everyday, airborne toxins perfumes, cleaning products, smoke, automotive exhaust, indoor dust, and springtime pollen find their way into our bloodstream (in less than 20 seconds!) and cause digestive organs to work overtime. A runny nose, itchy eyes, and red and blotchy skin often result in a trip to the allergist, when a digestive imbalance may be contributing.

Stay strong and healthy with a gut ‘reset.’

• Effectively and efficiently digest food.

• Reduce inflammation.

• Nourish your gut—and ensure your whole body is balanced.

• Regulate the processing and digestion of food and the elimination of waste by incorporating foods that lead to better absorption and detoxification.

Moorjani to Speak About Near-Death Experiences

The Chicago International Association for Near-Death Studies (IANDS) will present near-death experiencer, international speaker, New York Times bestselling author of Dying to Be Me, What if this is Heaven? and Sensitive is the New Strong, Anita Moorjani, in a live Zoom session from 2 to 4 p.m. on August 12.

After a four-year battle with cancer, she fell into a coma and was given days to live. As her doctors gathered to revive her, Moorjani journeyed into a neardeath experience (NDE), where she was surrounded by unconditional love.

After 30 hours, she regained consciousness, experienced spontaneous healing and understood why she was stricken with cancer. She now travels the world speaking with grace and humor to sold-out audiences that want to learn of her journey and experiences of embracing change, the power of healing and the quest to live a full and unlimited life.

Admission is free, donations are appreciated. To register (required), visit Chicagoiands.org and fill out the form on the home page for monthly Zoom links.

Holistic Health Fairs in Northbrook and Mundelein

Celebrating integrative medicine and metaphysical wonders, more than 50 vendors, speakers and energy workers will present a wide range of offerings such as crystals, tarot, jewelry, skincare, reiki, herbs, past-life readings, candles and more from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., August 13, at Hilton Chicago-Northbrook, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., September 10, at Double Tree by Hilton Mundelein.

Services are available such as reiki, chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, energy work, psychic mediumship, tarot card reading, animal communication, akashic records reading and more. Speakers will offer a wealth of knowledge about holistic health and spiritual development, tapping into the best version of ourselves and more.

Save $2 off each ticket online before the show. Locations: 2855 Milwaukee Ave,, Northbrook; and 510 IL-83, Mundelein. For more information, call 262-515-1472, email Info@HolisticHealthFair.org or visit HolisticHealthFair.org. Vendors can apply for space at HolisticHealthFair.org/vendors See ad on page 5.

– Peggy Noonan

Ruah Center to Host Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Sessions

Dr. Kimberly M. Davis, DACM, LAc, will be conducting the Ruah Center’s monthly, low-cost, community-style acupuncture session in a small group setting on August 24 and September 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. She says, “Community acupuncture is an effective way to relieve stress and support the physical and emotional symptoms of injuries and chronic illnesses.”

Davis holds a doctoral-level degree in acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine from the Pacific College of Health Sciences, in San Diego, as well as a master of science degree in Health Education from Russell College, in Troy, New York. She has more than 15 years of experience in natural health.

Cost: $45 ($40 with Medicaid, Medicare, student or VA ID). Location: 1110 N. Washington St., Naperville. For more information, call Pat at 708-738-1200 or visit KimberlyMDavislac.com

Dr. Chi Provides Tongue and Fingernail Analysis

For the first time since 2019, Dr. Tsu Tsair Chi, an international expert in the Eastern medicine art of tongue and fingernail analysis, will return to Illinois for two days of special events, including a free lecture and book signing from 7 to 9 p.m., September 8, at Christian Hills Church, in Orland Hills.

Chi will explain how changes in the tongue and nails may indicate issues with digestion, heart and lung disease, thyroid conditions, hormonal imbalances, blood sugar issues and more. He will provide individual tongue and fingernail analysis from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., September 8 and 9, at Rozich Chiropractic, in Orland Park.

After receiving medical training in China and a Ph.D. from Rutgers University, Chi worked at Squibb, Parke Davis and Omnicron in the fields of cancer and atherosclerosis. The board-certified naturopathic physician is skilled at analyzing fingernails and the tongue to detect underlying ailments.

Dr. Richard Rozich, founder of Rozich Chiropractic, is a board-certified chiropractic physician in practice for more than 30 years in the southwest suburbs.

Cost: Personal analysis is $50; nails must be free of polish or acrylic. To register (required), call 708-460-0011. Fri. lecture location: 9001 W. 159th St., Orland Hills. Fri. and Sat. location: 8000 W. 159th St., Ste. 2W, in the People’s Bank building, Orland Park. For more information or to RSVP, call 708-460-0011. See ad on page 15.

Global Pyramid Conference in Wadsworth

The Global Pyramid Network will present the fifth gathering of pyramid experts from September 22 through 24 at the unique, six-story Gold Pyramid House, in Wadsworth, offering an unparalleled opportunity to learn of recent discoveries, new revelations and enduring mysteries through an international group of world-renowned specialists in the field from Austria, Bosnia, Canada, England, Egypt, Germany, India, Serbia and the U.S. With our understanding of pyramids quickly evolving, the Global Pyramid Conference is an opportunity to meet and learn from experts as they share their findings and knowledge in an ideal and intimate setting. The perfect geometric frequency and vibration of the Gold Pyramid facilitates incredible abilities to explore greater alignment with the perfection and purpose of the world’s pyramids.

Cynthia Lightmaven, wellness consultant and lead event coordinator, says, “Join us for new and timeless pyramid teachings which include cutting-edge energy field technology and sacred geometry as well as pre- and post-conference workshops. The location of the first pyramid ever found in the U.S. will be revealed during the conference.”

Location: 37921 N. Dilleys Rd. For more information or to register, call 773-456-9202, email Info@GlobalPyramidConference.com or visit GlobalPyramidConference.com

Tenpenny to Speak at Trinity Health Freedom Expo in October

The Trinity Health Freedom Expo, featuring 35 expert speakers and 75 wellness industry companies informing and encouraging attendees on how to make informed healthcare decisions, will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., October 14 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 15 at the Tinley Park Convention Center. While participating alongside a community of natural health enthusiasts and health freedom advocates, plan to engage in the two interactive discussion panels, Health Freedom and Complementary and Alternative Medicine, as well as a private symposium with Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, author, vaccine researcher and founder of the Tenpenny Integrative Medical Center. Add the virtual expo scheduled for February 2024 to access lecture recordings, plus new speakers and exhibitors.

Preregister by Oct. 13 at TrinityHealthFreedomExpo.com or 888-658-6976 for single weekend pass admission at $25 (reg. $30) and a one-day pass at $15 (reg. $20). Trinity students and graduates, senior citizens, students and military/first responders can save an additional $5 at checkout. Add the private symposium for $50 or the virtual expo for $25 for the full experience. Location: 18451 Convention Center Dr., Tinley Park. See ad on page 3.

Vendor and Exhibitor Registration Open for Green Living Expo

Vendor and exhibitor registration is open for the 15th annual Green Living Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., November 4, at McHenry County College, in Crystal Lake. This is Northern Illinois’ largest and most impactful annual sustainability green event.

Vendors and exhibitors from all over McHenry, Kane and Lake counties and beyond will gather at the school for a day of fun, learning and unique experiences.

Location: 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14. Register at McHenry.edu/greenexpo. For more information, call 815-479-7765 or email Sustainability@McHenry.edu. See ad on page 5.

Popular Holiday Event Returns

The fifth annual Lightscape will be held at the Chicago Botanic Garden with a reimagined experience from November 10 through January 7, 2024.

The unique, after-dark, illuminated trail will dazzle with new installations from around the world and beloved classics, transforming new parts of the Garden, including Evening Island, into festive landscapes of light, color and sound. Visitors will discover incredible new works like the Electric Ribbon Tunnel and revisit favorites like the Winter Cathedral.

Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. For more information or tickets, visit ChicagoBotanic.org/lightscape

Holistic Integrative Dental Health Adds New Associate

Integrative Dental Health (formerly Bennardo Defining Smiles), a holistic dental practice in South Elgin, has added Mohammad Taqvi, DMD, as an associate. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Benedictine University, graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Midwestern University and is committed to providing the best oral care and giving his patients a confident, radiant smile that will last a lifetime.

“What sets us apart form other dental offices is that we practice holistic integrative dentistry,” says founder Anthony Bennardo, DDS. “What this means is that we look at how the entire body and all its systems are linked together to determine the why of what we see happening in the mouth. We don’t just treat the symptoms. Of course, we want to treat any disease we see in the mouth, yet we also want to help our patients address other potential systemic issues they’re experiencing.”

As Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (S.M.A.R.T.) certified providers, they follow the strictest protocols to protect patients from the neurotoxic effects of mercury fillings in the mouth. Bennardo and his associates also specialize in the oral systemic connection to potential sleep disorders and intestinal health issues.

Natural Awakenings readers receive a free, new-patient visit with Taqvi during Aug. and Sept. (exam and X-rays only). Location: 87 S. McLean Blvd., Ste. B, South Elgin. For more information or appointments, call 847-888-8311 or visit ArtisticSmileDoctor.com

See ad on page 15, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Naturepedic Opens Organic Mattress Retail Location in Highland Park

Naturepedic, makers of certified organic, non-toxic mattress and bedding products for babies, kids and adults, with 25 stores nationwide, has opened a new retail location at 643 Central Avenue, in Highland Park. By eliminating flame retardants, polyurethane foam, glues, adhesives, polyvinyl chloride and toxic VOCs from its line of certified organic mattresses, Naturepedic supports an organic, holistic lifestyle while protecting the environment.

The opening links nonprofit Humble Design Chicago, which creates fully furnished custom designs and home interiors for individuals, families and veterans emerging from homelessness. Consumers can donate their old mattress to Humble Design to receive 25 percent off in-store purchases at Naturepedic Chicago or donate other approved household items for 15 percent off.

Naturepedic is a 1% for the Planet partner, with 1 percent or more of every mattress purchase going to organizations committed to protecting the environment. An EPA Green Power Partner, they are the recipient of many certifications and the company is highly respected by many health and environmental organizations as a consistent and generous supporter of NGOs and nonprofits advocating for the right to know about what is in the products that consumers bring into their homes.

Location: Highland Park. For more information, visit Naturepedic.com

Start a Career in Natural Health

Enrollment is now open for fall and winter courses at Trinity School of Natural Health, a premier resource for holistic health education, with graduates from all 50 U.S. states and more than 40 countries. Founded in 1991, the school’s diverse online curriculum provides comprehensive knowledge and skills to help turn a passion for healthy living into a fulfilling career. Graduates often use their education in private practices, group clinics, retail stores, online businesses, public education or writing jobs.

Certifications are available for a wide range of natural health specialties, including health coaching, naturopathy, aromatherapy, homeopathy, holistic fitness, herbalism, iridology, nutritional consulting and ZYTO bioenergetics. Led by instructors with practical expertise, these online courses provide students the flexibility to work when their schedules allow, while offering interactive and structured classroom settings to keep students motivated and on the path toward graduation.

Programs begin every four weeks. For more information or to enroll, call an enrollment specialist at 800-428-0408, option 2, or visit TrinitySchool.org See ad on page 21.

How Can Thermography Help With Gut Health?

It’s been said that 80% of your immunity and wellness begins in your GI tract. Unmanaged (or subclinical) inflammation in the stomach, intestines and supporting organs is a precursor to a future gut problem.

Yet it’s difficult for practitioners to monitor what’s happening in the gut without invasive, uncomfortable procedures that often are ordered after symptoms and chronic conditions appear.

Thermal imaging is a non-invasive, comfortable and pro-active tool that can visualize current GI health and help you and your practitioner monitor for improved thermal patterns after dietary modifications. Imaging occurs in a private office, you receive your results from a thermography-certified MD and then you can decide whether to take action with your own practitioner.

August Thermography appointments offered in locations throughout the Chicago area:

Any location on our website can be requested on other dates, just ask. Group packages available, plan with your friends.

BOOK NOW (by appt only)

Maximizing Lutein in Green Smoothies

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

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

Reclaim the Right to Rest

Rest is good, for everyone, but if we don’t acknowledge our own needs first, we are not as effective in our relationships with others. Taking time to be present in the moment and making conscious choices can dramatically improve our health and well-being and reclaim our life. Here are a few pointers and the mnemonic device “RECLAIM” to remember them.

R: Rest: Dysfunctional sleep patterns promote chronic disease development. Sleep is aligned with the night/day cycle of the Earth, and disruption in sleep homeostasis is inherently related to individual well-being. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Take in more daylight and limit exposure to artificial light. Avoid caffeine, heavy meals and alcohol before bed. Take time to unwind. Keep the bedroom dark, cool, clutter-free, quiet and comfortable.

E: Exercise: Risks conferred by sedentary behavior are mitigated by 21 minutes of physical activity for seven days (150 minutes per week). Keeping sedentary time to less than eight-and-a-half hours a day reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease further. Studies show that regular exercise lowers the risk of developing anxiety by nearly 60 percent.

C: Connect: Socialize with supportive friends or family or pets. Cultivate a variety of relationship types, both local and long-distance. Mix and match virtual dates with faraway friends and walks with local pals. Volunteer at a charity, food bank or animal shelter. Join a book club or a meetup group. Cooking classes are a great way to interact with new people and learn new skills.

L: Lean Mass: Think of apple- versus pear-shaped bodies. If our waist is bigger than our hips, diseases start to brew. Sooner or later, they will surface. If there is one piece of food advice that is right for everyone, it is to stay away from chemicals.

A: Anxiety: Refined carbs like white flour, added sugars or fruit juices cause blood sugar to fluctuate, which worsens anxiety. Foods containing short-chain fatty acids are very important for mental health. Take deep breaths: 4-7-8 is a good place to begin. Inhale for four seconds, hold the breath for seven seconds and exhale for eight seconds. Any conscious breathing is beneficial, even one or two breaths.

I: Implement: Implementation of knowledge is wisdom, because knowledge cannot change anything until we take action.

M: Mindfulness: Take a quiet moment and pay attention to emotions. Conscious awareness of our inner state allows us to react intentionally. Start a gratitude journal. Meditate daily—even if just for a minute.

To contact Meena Malhotra, M.D., medical director at Heal n Cure, located at 2420 Ravine Way, Ste. 400, in Glenview, call 847-686-4444 or visit HealNCure.com. See ad on page 2, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com