Natural Awakenings Chicago December 2021

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Amp Up Your Immune System

The Healing Power

of Intentional Conversations

Why Books Make Great Gifts for Kids Tasty Recipes for Festive Treats Winter Exercise Tips Celebrating the Soul of Winter FREE

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DECEMBER 2021 | CHICAGO | NACHICAGO.COM

11/18/21 4:22 PM

Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed.

Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night.

“It saved me last holidays,” she said.

“The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.”

Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said.

By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast.

September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.”

“They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched.

Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished.

Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses.

Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA24. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?”

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Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever.

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“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

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Chicago

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You are invited to attend Dr. Meena’s Free Seminar This month’s topic is Stress, Hormone, Belly Fat & Wellbeing

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December 2021 2420 RAVINE WAY, STE 400 • GLENVIEW

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Contents

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

20 WINTER LIGHTS

22

Illuminate the Season

20

21 SEASON OF LIGHT

Celebrating the Soul of Winter

22 CIRCLES OF HEALING The Power of Gathering in Community

24 AMP UP IMMUNITY

Proven Boosters for Good Health

28

25 MAINTAINING A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM

26 JOLLY TREATS Can Be Healthy

27 MAKE THESE HOLIDAY HITS AT HOME

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS

28 THE SWEET DANGER OF SUGAR

Ways to Enjoy Healthier Holiday Fare

HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 847-858-3697 or email info@NAChicago.com. Deadline for complete and finalized ads: the 14th of the month.

32 WINTER IS NO TIME

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to: Amy@NAChicago.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

34 THE BEST BOOKS

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit online at: NAChicago.com/events/new or email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NAChicago.com. Deadline for calendar: the 8th of the month.

REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-434-9392. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

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32

TO HIBERNATE FOR KIDS

Gift Choices that Can Open Up Worlds

36 NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT BOOK GROUPS

Inspire Readers

34

INNOVATIVE THERAPIES TO ACHIEVE YOUR OPTIMAL WELLBEING • Bemer Mat • Bio-availability Supplements • Bio-identical Hormones • Colon Hydrotherapy • Cryotherapy • Exercise with Oxygen • EWOT Therapy • HOCATT Platinum Sauna • Infrared Sauna • Irradiation Therapy • Lymphatic Enhancement • Medical Weight Loss • Mold • NAD Therapy • Nutrition • Ozone Therapy • Peptide Therapy • Red Light Bed • Stem Cells & Exosomes • Superhuman Protocol • Tick-borne Disease • UVB Blood • Vitamin IV & Intramuscular

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he quiet of late fall/early winter’s long nights and short days is a natural time of rest and inner growth, and being mindful of this true gift of the season can help us to slow down, recharge and experience each day more fully and purposefully as we move toward the not-so-distant spring. With the holiday season and Winter Solstice come traditions, celebrations and the promise of longer days with new outlooks.

Given the choice, I prefer warm, humid days to the winter realities of our Midwest climate. Yet, being outside in winter can be just as invigorating, inspiring and mood-setting as a perfect summer day. I‘m fascinated by the lacy patterns of bare winter tree branches against a steel-gray sky, stop in my tracks to stare at the winter moon and stars during an evening dog walk, Peggy Malecki eagerly watch clouds mingle through the pinks and purples of an early sunset, and like to take in the crisp sounds of water and ice on a breezy day along the shores of Lake Michigan. A bundled-up, brisk walk can help me to reground and focus after a hectic day of sitting at the keyboard. Of course, if temps are downright bitter with deep subzero windchills, a short observational tour through the yard to fill the bird feeder can be a good alternative!

December presents an ideal chance to reflect on memories of the past year, both by consciously absorbing the details of our life’s journey over the past 365 days and by invigorating and recharging ourselves in the hope of the coming year. It’s an opportunity to trust inner wisdom and resilience as we count our blessings, express gratitude for the large and small details of our lives and navigate through the holidays. It’s a time to share gratefulness and appreciation of the natural world and feel oneness with the wind, the waters, native prairies and open spaces, forests and the Earth that we share with all others that live here, too.

This month in Natural Awakenings Chicago, we offers lots of great ways to honor and celebrate this season of light and joy. Carrie Jackson takes us on a tour of family-friendly outdoor light shows in “Winter Lights Illuminate the Holiday Season,” and we’ve included more holiday-themed celebrations listed in our Community Calendar sections. You’re invited to try the festive winter- and holiday-themed recipes in our Conscious Eating department (find more recipes at NAChicago.com) and check out some great gift ideas for book-lovers of all ages on your holiday list in both our Healthy Kids and Natural Chicago departments.

You can extend the holiday spirit in many other ways, too. Consider donating time, experience, useful items or money to the local nonprofit of your choice (perhaps in the name of a family or friend as a gift). Volunteer this season and add your name to the list for after the holidays when help is often needed even more. Help a friend, neighbor, organization or new-to-your-acquaintance that could use your assistance and your smile.

Reminisce with loved ones to honor the memories of those no longer with us, and please continue to be kind and forgiving to others and to yourself.

On behalf of everyone at Natural Awakenings Chicago, I wish you a peaceful December season filled with laughter, warmth, hope, love, gratitude and all things that bring you joy. As always, I encourage you to step outside each day, get some exercise and fresh air, take in the details of the ever-changing season, listen for the sounds of winter wildlife sharing your neighborhood and find new meaning in the subtleties of the natural world that surrounds you wherever you may live or travel.

Wishing you a safe, healthy and happy holiday season

and an inspiring new year!

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

CHICAGO EDITION Publisher Peggy Malecki

Sales & Marketing Peggy Malecki

Carrie Jackson Heidi Hetzel Dee Bayro Operations Amy Hass

Kyle Hass Editors Marty Miron Theresa Archer

Randy Kambic Writers Carrie Jackson Megy Karydes Sheryl DeVore

Design & Production Suzzanne Siegel

Martin Friedman

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Chicago P.O. Box 72, Highland Park, IL 60035 Ph: 847-858-3697 • Fax: 888-858-3107 Info@NAChicago.com • NAChicago.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $29 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne

Production Designer Gabrielle W-Perillo

Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy

National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Kristy Mayer

© 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Natural Awakenings is printed on non-glossy paper to protect the environment

Photo credit Peggy Malecki - 2020-21 Winter Shore

from the publisher…

Improve your tummy health

by way of telehealth.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Working with Reneé, you will:

Stay strong and healthy with a gut ‘reset.’

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

• Understand which foods agree with you—

• Effectively and efficiently digest food.

• Reduce inflammation.

• Nourish your gut—and ensure your

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

Let’s get you feeling better.

Reneé S . Barasch , LDH S

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.

Digeestive H Dig Heealth Solutions Call 8 4 7 - 20 7 - 2 0 3 4 thetummywhisperer. com

Certified Digestive Health Specialist

December 2021

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news briefs

Become an Allergen-Sensitive Elf This Holiday Season

“A

s communities bonded back together this year, I realized one of the biggest things I missed was connecting with people. This holiday season, I want to experience people, hug them, laugh with them and share stories again. I chose the holiday guide theme this year, You’re Cordially Invited to the Hinton Home, because I think we all want to hang out again with our closest friends and celebrate together. I hope this year’s guide inspires your family to lean into the traditions we loved from the past and host an intimate, chic, allergen-sensitive home event.” –Tiffany Hinton, GF Mom Certified.

Become an allergen-sensitive elf this holiday season with GF Mom Certified and the third annual allergen sensitive holiday guide, You’re Cordially Invited to the Hinton Home. More than just a gift guide, this healthy, lifestyle-focused booklet features resources for those in the allergenand gluten-free community, holiday gift suggestions, recipes, exclusive giveaways, coupon codes and more. The 2021 GF Mom Certified Holiday Guide is available as a digital Kindle edition, as well as a print booklet on Amazon at bit.ly/gfmomcertifiedholidayguide21.

Be sure not to miss out on the fun by following GF Mom Certified on Instagram at @gfmomcertified or by joining the 2021 GF Mom Certified Holiday Guide email list at TiffanyHinton.podia.com. See ad at NAChicago.com.

ZoeGoes’ Sustainable Fashion Collection at One Of A Kind Show

F

ashion designer Karyn Pettigrew believes she has the right solution for women that are ready to live, work or travel in style with the least amount of effort, which can be experienced at the One Of A Kind Show from December 2 through 5 at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart.

The Chicago native has created a fashion line called ZoeGoes, a six-piece, sustainable capsule collection that allows women to do more with their wardrobe with fewer items. A successful business coach, Harvard Business School alumna, author and speaker, Pettigrew created an efficient, fashionable, travel wardrobe while returning from vacationing abroad, navigating plane changes and luggage hassles.

Deciding that there had to be an easier way, ZoeGoes was born. Taking a modern-minimalist approach, every piece can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits with ease and elegance. The grab-and-go luggage cube is a bonus with the purchase of three or more pieces. Pettigrew approaches her clothing business with fresh eyes and a seasoned mind while still helping others navigate their personal and professional lives in a fulfilling manner.

For more information, visit.ZoeGoes.com and OneOfAKindShowChicago.com/holiday.

See ad on page 19, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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NAChicago.com

Kadampa December Buddhism Workshop

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he Kadampa Living Lightly with Wisdom Meditation workshop will be held in person from 2 to 5 p.m., December 4, at Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago-Wicker Park Branch, and will be available online as a recording for 72 hours afterward. The text is Modern Buddhism (free e-book available).

Resident teacher Gen Kelsang Zamling will explore Buddha’s teachings on emptiness, the true nature of reality.

Participants will learn to let go of painful attitudes and patterns; live lightly and adapt creatively to our world; and be of genuine benefit to others. The course will examine wisdom in a way that’s practical and effective, with meditations and mindfulness tools to use right away that will make a significant impact on day-to-day life. No previous experience is necessary, and each session will include teaching, guided meditations and time for questions.

Cost: $20. Location: 2010 W. Pierce Ave., Chicago. Register at MeditateInChicago.org/ event-details/living-lightly-with-wisdom.

See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Start New Fitness Habits with the January Burn Challenge

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31-day Burn Challenge, hosted by Get Fit EGV, will replace old habits with new ones to level up our lives for better health. Register by December 10 to build momentum for the start date of January 3, 2022.

Participants will hold each other accountable by checking in with active calories, total calories and steps for each day in the Facebook group, as well as log into a Google sheet, and the person with the most entries across the three categories wins a prize.

First place for non-members wins 30 days of free nutrition coaching; members win a free metrics check-in and #elkgrovestrong jacket.

Second place for non-members earns a free week of group classes; members win a free, four-pack of their choice of Premier Protein or FitAid drinks. The third-place prize for non-members is a free single class drop-in; members win a free speed jump rope.

An email will be sent to those registered with the link to the Facebook group two weeks before the challenge starts.

Location: 1100 Nerge Rd., Ste. 206. Register at Tinyurl.com/BurnChallenge. For more information, call coach Ro at 773-849-4990, email CoachRo@GetFitEgv.com or visit GetFitEgv.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

HANDS WOMEN'S WELLNESS SERIES january - april, 2022 • HELD VIRTUALLY Discover your voice, nourish yourself, and partner with the plants to heal yourself and those around you.

Spend time with amazing wise women from around the world as they share their powerful wisdom and knowledge.

These programs will support those beginning their herbal/healing journey, as well as experienced herbalists and healers.

Give yourself or someone you love the gift of connection and self-care this winter. Register today!

WORKSHOPS: Herbal Nourishment The Power of Oracles Herbal Tonics for Aging Phytosluething Phials (botany tips and tricks) Healing Magick and Homeopathy Holistic Approaches to Trauma, Transformation & Grief Talking Stick & Intention Setting Ceremony

l e a r n m o r e a n d r e g i s t e r at m i d w es t w o m e n s h e r b a l . c o m December 2021

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news briefs

eal n Cure will host a complimentary lecture by Meena T. Malhotra, M.D., along with a dinner at 6:30 p.m., December 16, at the Heal n Cure Medical Wellness Center, on the topic of how hormone imbalances can affect sleep cycles, carbohydrate cravings and fat burning, and why “counting calories” doesn’t work for belly fat.

Attendees will learn the biggest mistake that people make with exercise that prevents weight loss and what really works for permanent loss of belly fat and bulges, safely and healthfully. This information is for men, too.

Malhotra, the medical director of Heal n Cure, is a national speaker and leading wellness expert, frequently featured on NBC, ABC and Fox. She is double-board certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine and American Board of Internal Medicine, and is committed to healing disease at the root cause through an integrative functional Meena T. Malhotra, M.D. medicine approach.

Location: 2420 Ravine Way, Ste. 400, Glenview. For more information or to RSVP, call 847-686-4444 or visit HealnCure.com/seminar.

See ad on page 3, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Holiday Gardening Pop-Up In Historic Edgewater Location

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he iconic former Granville Pictures storefront in Edgewater is getting a second life as a holiday pop-up from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through December 21 from local gardening business City Grange, rated as one of the Top 10 Plant Shops in Chicago.

They hope the concept store will garner neighborhood support and allow City Grange to open a full-time plant shop in March 2022 after repairs are made to the interior of the building.

City Grange is the country’s first education-based garden center brand. They believe the world is a better place with more gardeners in it and provide education, pesticide-free and organic plants, tools and supplies, as well as award-winning landscaping services to help customers succeed. Their first location opened in Lincoln Square in 2019; the second, in the Beverly neighborhood the following year.

Location: 6200 Broadway, Edgewater. For more information, visit CityGrange.com.

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uided by small, solar-powered lights, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can enjoy evenings along the 1.3-mile fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville and a 1.65-mile hilly section of the Millennium Trail adjacent to the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.

Regular preserve hours are 6:30 a.m. to sunset, but illuminated trails and adjacent parking lots will remain open after sunset until 9 p.m. daily through March 13, 2022. Bicycles and horses are not permitted after sunset. Dogs must be leashed. Lake County Forest Preserve Rangers regularly patrol the areas.

To access the lighted trails, park at Lakewood’s Winter Sports Area on the east side of Fairfield Road just south of Route 176, or at Old School’s main entrance lot on the east side of St. Mary’s Road just south of Route 176.

View maps at Tinyurl.com/OldSchoolSolarTrail and Tinyurl.com/ LakewoodSolarTrail.

Watch Eagles Soar

T

he annual Forest Preserve District of Will County Eagle Watch program will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., January 8, at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. Bald eagles are spotted regularly at Four Rivers and the surrounding McKinley Woods area each winter as the birds migrate to open water.

Some eagles nest in Illinois year-round, but most migrate south during winter. The Eagle Watch includes refreshing, factfilled, winter hikes to search for these majestic birds. Short Talon Talks filled with eagle tidbits and live birds of prey programs presented by Hoo’s Woods Raptor Center will be offered inside Four Rivers. There will be a fire outside and Lil’ Deb’s Mobile Eats will be onsite with hot beverages, chili and other delicious food for sale.

Free admission. Location: 25055 W. Walnut Lane, Channahon.

For more information, visit the event calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org.

Photo courtesy of Nat Carmichael

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Winter Walking Trails Illuminated

Photo courtesy of Paul Dacko

Learn of Advances in Treating Hormone Imbalances

A New You Starts Now 2022 SP Detox and Purification Challenge A new year is a great opportunity to kickstart healthy habits.

Join the nationwide community for our annual SP Detox and Purification Challenge — starting Monday, Jan. 3.

What participants are saying: “Your program has helped our family switch to a healthier lifestyle!”

“Thanks for giving my health back. Here’s to a much better year!”

Featuring products that contain ingredients from our certified organic farm SP DETOX BALANCE ™ PROGRAM

Balanced, safe, and effective nutritional support for all three phases of detoxification*

PURIFICATION PROGRAM Purify, nourish, and maintain a healthy body and weight*

Visit standardprocess.com/Find to find a practitioner and determine which program is right for you Join the conversation by posting on social media using #standardprocess Ingredients that are not grown on our farm, or if our supply is short, are sourced from certified organic farms.

standardprocess.com *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ©2021 Standard Process Inc. All rights reserved. LN01936 10/21

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Women’s Wellness Series Starts in January

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idwest Women’s Herbal presents In Our Own Hands: Women’s Wellness Series, a unique virtual event beginning January 8, 2022, with workshops being held every other Saturday through April 2, and concluding with a virtual talking stick ceremony and intention-setting for spring to stay grounded and connected to the Earth all winter long.

Herbal elders from around the world will share their knowledge and Wise Women wisdom. Midwest Women’s Herbal founder Linda Conroy asks, “What if nourishment works?” Modern-day mystic Rev. Judith Laxer will share The Power of Oracles and Isla Burgess joins from New Zealand to talk about Nutritional and Herbal Tonics After Menopause.

Ellen Evert Hopman gets witchy with baneful plants and will teach us how to use their medicine safely through homeopathy. Robyn Klein informs on the importance of keying in plant identification, and Lucretia Van Dyke presents Ubuntu—I Am Because We Are, guiding and empowering the way to processing our individual and collective grief.

For more information and to register, visit MidwestWomensHerbal. com/inourownhands-2022. See ad on page 9 and at NAChicago.com.

One & Done Hair Treatment for the Holidays

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rganic Roots Eco Salon is introducing One & Done, a vegan and cruelty-free smoothening hair treatment designed to revitalize hair for up to five months, providing a sensational look for the holidays.

It replaces animal-sourced keratin with plant-based equivalents that work the same way within the hair, but ensure the products are vegan, using 100 percent safe and formaldehyde-free tourmaline technology. One & Done helps eliminate frizz, protects from humidity, provides healthy shine, protects healthy hair and reduces daily styling time.

Organic Roots also features Oway and Maraes Organic hair color and formaldehyde-free Majestic Keratin Hair Botox, which the salon regards as the most advanced hair repair, anti-aging and straightening formula worldwide.

Location: 3417 Dempster St., Skokie. For more information and appointments, call 847-423-2653 or visit OrganicRootsEcoSalon.com.

See ad on page 18 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Photo courtesy of Midwest Womens Herbal Conference

news briefs

New Book on Gut Health

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eter Kozlowski, M.D., has written a new book, Unfunc Your Gut: A Functional Medicine Guide. This research-based fusion of Kozlowski’s medical insights and mind-body wisdom acquired through his own experience of addiction recovery and treating patients in his clinical practice could be more simply called gut health.

In addition to relatable, successful case studies, it contains more than 50 delicious recipes to invigorate life. It’s intended as an oasis of clear answers in the sea of contradictory online nutritional information. Those seeking grounded answers to basic gut health questions will find ways to boost the immune system, heal the gut and unlock mental, emotional and spiritual health.

Shelia Patel, M.D., chief medical officer at Chopra Global, says, “By coupling this knowledge with a mind-body-spirit perspective of health, ‘Doc Koz’ shows us the future of medicine.”

Unfunc Your Gut is available on Amazon.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Iannotta Offers Sculptural Lifting Massage as Alternative to Botox

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olistic skin expert Paulina Iannotta is offering a new facial massage that combines unique and advanced transbuccal, osteoplasty and myoplasty techniques which stimulate biological and aesthetic regeneration of the face.

Multifaceted multitherapy restores physiological harmony to the tissues for supporting orthodontic and dental treatment, as well as procedures involving aesthetic medicine. Facemodeling treatments prepare the tissues for plastic surgery of the face and breasts, and also provide support in postoperative convalescence.

Iannotta says, “Taking care of the aesthetics of our face very often comes down to the skin itself, correcting it, masking imperfections and trying to stop time (Botox, threads or fillers), without focusing on the cause of all these changes. Facemodeling gives us tools that work naturally, effectively and long term.”

Paulina Iannotta

Location: within the Estuary Center for Living and Healing Arts, 24W788 75th St., Naperville. For more information and appointments, call 708-769-5351 or visit HolisticSkinExpert.com.

See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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news briefs

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Inspired By Justeen Opens in Edgewater Neighborhood

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stablished in 2017, the online boutique Inspired

By Justeen has opened a physical store at 6116 N. Broadway, in Chicago. Self-proclaimed fashion addict Justeen Diffenderfer has a mission to provide women everywhere with the ability to live a life of confidence through fashion.

Shoppers may choose from affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, bath items for big and little girls, and unique jewelry, as well as myriad clever holiday stocking stuffers. She also sells a variety of stylish goodies for Justeen Diffenderfer adults, children and babies.

A wide array of Judy Blue quality jeans is sure to please the denim aficionado, along with a curated collection of on trend faux leather pencil skirts and beautiful wrap dresses.

Also on tap are vegan leather purses, greeting cards and locally sourced, unique marshmallow treats from Chicago’s XO Marshmallow.

For more information, call 773-856-6100 or visit InspiredByJusteen.com.

Reader Feedback Helps Us Grow

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he Natural Awakenings online national readership survey allows us to better serve readers. “Your participation takes just five minutes, and will give us a better understanding of what you need and how well we’re delivering on your expectations,” says founder and CEO Sharon Bruckman. “We’ll also use your responses to help guide the direction of future development.” One participant, selected at random, will receive a $100 Visa gift card.

With the interests and welfare of readers in mind, Natural Awakenings provides information and resources for living a healthier, happier life. Publishing in more than 50 communities nationwide, Natural Awakenings is one of the country’s most widely read healthy living magazines, with a loyal monthly readership of over 1.3 million.

Visit NaturalAwakenings.com/survey to participate.

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How to Celebrate Sustainably

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December 2021

15

health briefs

Eat Walnuts to Reduce Bad Try Damask Rose Extract to Cholesterol and Heart Disease Boost Liver Function The fragrant Damask rose (Rosa damascene), a common ingredient in essential oils and perfumes, has been used for a millennia in the Middle East to treat chest pain, menstrual bleeding, heart weakness and digestive ailments.

A new study by Iranian researchers has found that it also boosts liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The 37 participating patients that took 500 milligrams of rose petal extract daily for 12 weeks had significantly better serum ALT (liver enzyme) levels compared to the placebo group.

The rose extract also reduced triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins and blood pressure, and it significantly improved metabolic syndrome markers. wasanajai/AdobeStock.com

andreea ch /Pexels.com

Healthy older adults that ate about a half cup of walnuts every day for two years gained a modest reduction in lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad cholesterol”, reports a study of 636 people from San Diego’s Loma Linda University.

Other risk factors for heart health—small LDL particles and intermediatedensity lipoprotein—also decreased, signaling a lower chance of cardiovascular events.

“Many people are worried about unwanted weight gain when they include nuts in their diet,” says study co-author Emilio Ros, M.D., Ph.D. “Our study found that the healthy fats in walnuts did not cause participants to gain weight.”

karolina grabowski/Pexels.com

Try Garlic to Relieve Endometriosis Pain For women suffering from pelvic and back pain associated with endometriosis (uterus growth), garlic may help. In an Iranian study published in the journal Evidence-Based Alternative and Complementary Medicine, half of a group of 60 women with the disorder were given 400 milligrams of garlic in tablets daily, and the others received a placebo. Over a span of three months, researchers found that the women taking the garlic tablets had significantly less pelvic and back pain, as well as significant reductions in discomfort during menstruation and sexual intercourse.

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Eat an Avocado Daily to Redistribute Belly Fat

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The deep visceral fat that surrounds internal organs is a major indicator of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, but it can be decreased in women by eating an avocado each day, report researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. For 12 weeks, 105 overweight or obese men and women were fed a meal that for only half of the participants included an avocado.

The women that ate avocados experienced a reduction in visceral abdominal fat, as well as a reduced ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat closer to the skin, indicating a redistribution of fat away from the organs. Fat distribution in males did not change.

Avoid Antibiotics to Lower Colon Cancer Risk ana terevich/Pexels.com

A clear link exists between taking antibiotics for six months and developing colorectal cancer in the next five to 10 years, report researchers from Umea University, in Sweden. By comparing the records of 40,000 Swedish cancer patients to 200,000 people without cancer, they found that taking antibiotics for at least six months increased the risk of cancer by 17 percent in the ascending colon, the first part to be reached by food after the small intestine. However, no increased risk was found for cancer in the descending colon. Those taking the most antibiotics had the greatest risk, but even a single course was associated with a small, but statistically significant risk increase. “While in many cases antibiotic therapy is necessary and saves lives, in the event of less serious ailments that can be expected to heal anyway, caution should be exercised,” says Umea University researcher Sophia Harlid, Ph.D.

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Holy Smoke!

global briefs Planting 500 Billion Trees

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The UK tech company Dendra claims their drone can plant two trees per second using artificial intelligence for guidance in an effort to re-green the Earth. Their ambitious goal is to plant 500 billion trees by 2060 with 400 teams of two drone operators and 10 drones per team. The plan would plant 10 billion trees per year 10 times more cheaply than planting by hand, especially in remote areas.

First, the replanting areas are identified using a combination of satellite images and drone-collected data. Then, specialized drones carrying seedpods that contain a germinated seed and nutrients use pressurized air to fire the seeds into the ground once in proper position as determined by an algorithm. The seedpods penetrate the ground and start to grow when activated by precipitation.

The World Wildlife Fund estimates the planet is losing 27 football fields of forest every minute due to deforestation. Dendra CEO Susan Graham says, “We need to use technology to scale up our restoration efforts, and the scale we’re talking about is tens of billions of trees every year. We’ll be able to see the ecosystems that we’ve restored from space.”

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University of Rhode Island research published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters describes a new technique for measuring the presence of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in indoor air, which found them in kindergarten classrooms, offices, laboratories and a home. We have known about toxic “forever chemicals” in food and drinking water, and it seems they are also ubiquitous in the air.

PFAS are a class of approximately 9,000 chemicals used to improve stain, water or heat resistance in products. The public health concern is that they don’t break down in the environment. PFAS accumulate in animals and humans and are linked to health impacts including cancer, birth defects and immune suppression.

The scientists think PFAS enter the atmosphere when compounds break off of treated products like coats or carpets and attach to dust. “It’s an underestimated and potentially important source of exposure to PFAS,” says study co-author and Green Science Policy Institute Senior Scientist Tom Bruton.

According to the Institute, schools and offices can protect students and employees by replacing carpeting, but that doesn’t prevent PFAS from entering via coats or shoes. Bruton writes, “As long as they continue to be used in products, we’ll all be eating, drinking and breathing PFAS. We need to turn off the tap and stop all unnecessary uses of PFAS as soon as possible.”

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event spotlight

Winter Lights ILLUMINATE THE SEASON

by Carrie Jackson

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Photo courtesy of The Morton Arboretum

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Illumination at The Morton Arboretum, in Lisle for 27 years. “With nearly 200 species, there’s an opportunity for folks to connect with animals—whether it’s braving the cold with polar bears or cozying up alongside Jamaican iguanas in the rainforest ecosystem,” says Jillian Braun, director of public relations and communications at the zoo. The zoo is illuminated with dazzling LED lights, dynamic displays and festive activities. “There is something for everyone, whether it’s annual photos with Santa, sipping a hot chocolate at Snowy’s Spirits and S’more popup bar or wandering through the Light Maze,” says Braun. Zoolights runs through January 2, and the exhibit is free on Monday and Tuesday.

Lightscape, at the Chicago Botanic Garden (ChicagoBotanic.org), in Glencoe, is a festive opportunity to enjoy the beauty of being outdoors while celebrating the season. Now in its third year, visitors will be amazed by the exciting new installations and features that shine with all colors imaginable along the mile-and-a-quarter path. “The enchanting, illuminated trail was created just for the Garden and features installations from Chicago-based and international artists alike,” says Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president, visitor events and programs at the Garden.

Highlights include a laser show, playful musical trees and the favorite Winter Cathedral. Lightscape runs through January 2.

With more then 2 million lights, Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Photo courtesy of Brookfield Zoo

ight festivals at some of Chicagoland’s most prominent attractions bring families and friends together to embrace the darker days, get outside and share holiday experiences. Our area zoos and gardens offer extraordinary backdrops to highlight the beauty of nature in the winter. All exhibits require tickets to be purchased in advance and are adhering to current COVID-19 protocols.

“Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum (MortonArb.org) is a completely unique experience that visitors won’t see anywhere else,” says Tari Marshall, head of public relations and social media at The Mortem Arboretum. “This is the ninth year we’ve done Illumination, and there are families that have made it part of their holiday tradition to come every year,” she adds.

The exhibition leads guests along a one-mile, paved walking path with lighting effects and festive music. “The trees are the stars of the show, and the exhibit highlights their beauty in the winter,” explains Marshall. After shifting to a drive-through exhibit last year because of COVID, the Arboretum has added five new features, including a festival of lanterns and an enchanted gateway entrance. The trails are accessible and offer fireside warming stations, beverages and snacks along the way. Illumination runs through January 2.

Zoolights, at the Lincoln Park Zoo (LPZoo.org), in Chicago, is a family-friendly event in the heart of the city that has been a holiday tradition

Carrie Jackson is an Evanston-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings Chicago magazine.

Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden

inspiration

Season of Light

Celebrating the Soul of Winter

by Marlaina Donato

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nevitably, the wheel of the year turns with the nuances of the seasons hardly noticed in the blur of our busy days. “Next year,” we say, when we realize that we’ve run out of time to try that holiday recipe, connect with friends or revel in a winter sunset. Collecting small joys takes us out of survival mode and into wide-awake living.

Pausing to sip from winter’s steaming cup of comfort can be the perfect way to begin a new chapter that prompts us to come back to the center.

In the ancient world, fire festivals marked holy days celebrating the sun’s promise of return and supplied felicity in a time of hardship. Today, something inside our ancestral memories makes us crave celebration as we wrap the year’s end in shiny ribbon, ethereal lights and scented candles.

Singing, chanting or caroling this time of year—“old-fashioned” pastimes—were ancient elements of winter’s revels that invited benevolent energy and chased away bad luck. While most of us no longer grace our neighbors with song, raising our voices to any capacity can be an offering, an invitation to hope and beauty. Singing multicultural songs with the kids, writing a spontaneous prayer or sharing seasonal or funny stories naturally boosts the immune system and helps to fight off the winter blues.

Winter has its own jewel-toned beauty that rivals summer’s most dazzling hour if we pay attention: ruby fruits baked with brown sugar, rosy desert mornings and snowy sapphire twilights. Pointing out December constellations over a beach or lacing up our boots for a brisk walk helps us to unplug from the world’s problems. Sprinkling heart-healthy spices in our morning coffee opens a gloomy day on a lovely note.

Winter can feel long, so go ahead and treat your senses; buy a few yards of red velvet to sleep on or pick up that novel you’ve been planning to read. Live and give a little more deeply. Feed the birds and feed your soul. kharchenkoirina/AdobeStock.com

(CZS.org/Brookfield-Zoo), in Brookfield, is Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festival. It features larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures, a 600-foot tunnel of lights and a skating rink made of synthetic plastic so no electricity is needed to maintain it. Visitors can also play the Game of Gnomes by searching for 27 gnomes hidden throughout the zoo. “Several new features have been added to this year’s event, including the ‘Sea of Lights’.

Featuring more than two miles of colorful, sparkling lights, the zoo’s entire West Mall will be transformed into a magical creation of waves immersing guests in the holiday spirit,” says Leah Rippe, vice president of marketing and communications for the Chicago Zoological Society. Holiday Magic runs on select dates through December 31.

Exposure to light during the darkness of winter can be healing when the days are so short, and the unconventional settings of zoos and gardens allow people to make nature part of their holiday traditions. “These aren’t traditional Christmas lights, it’s an immersion in a light experience,” says Marshall.

Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer of ambient holiday music. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

Revels Around the World: n The celebration of Soyal by the Hopi people of northern Arizona centers on purification, dancing and inviting the favor of the Kachinas, or protective nature spirits. n The ancient Persian festival Yalda celebrates family time and the triumph of the sun, with people staying awake

to see the sunrise and eat foods such as pomegranates and nuts. n The Chinese festival of Dong Zhi, or the “arrival of winter”, is an ancient celebration of labor and the closing year. n The Ukrainian celebration of Malanka, or Orthodox New Year, is a type of Mardi Gras involving masks, costumes and singing from house to house.

December 2021

21

The Power of Gathering in Community

by Linda Sechrist

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ad the intellectual achievements of human culture evolved during a revolution based on living systems in the natural world rather than one of rapid industrial growth and resource consumption, we might be experiencing interconnectedness instead of divisiveness during this time of social and ecological crisis.

A nature-focused revolution embracing humans as an integral part of the Earth’s natural systems would have instilled a deeper understanding of the wonders of the human body as a living system imbued with inner intelligence, as well as the intelligence of the non-human living world. This perspective, held by Native Americans, would have helped to create sustainable human communities that flourish by connecting, collaborating, cooperating and communicating.

With such approaches as wisdom circles, story circles, power of eight intention circles, support groups, prayer circles and dialogue circles exploring conflict solutions, Western minds are just beginning to comprehend how small-community experiences of fellowship and communion can assuage feelings of separation and isolation, and create inner experiences of wholeness and belonging.

Mentoring Each Other Although not always sharing a common geographical location, 22

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small communities formed around common interests and shared values enable emotional healing. The ManKind Project (MKP), which describes itself as a “men’s community for the 21st century,” has more than 1,000 peer-facilitated groups in 22 countries in which men mentor each other through their life passages.

“In our MKP communities, there’s a sense of shared commitment and the shared values of accountability, authenticity, compassion, generosity, integrity, respect, leadership and multicultural awareness, along with a shared vision pointing us in the direction we want to go together,” says Boysen Hodgson, MKP-USA communications director. “While MKP’s mission statement informs our work, in New Warrior Adventure training, each man creates a personal mission statement. Mine is, ‘I transform culture by designing change, building bridges and co-creating space for connection.’”

According to Hodgson, when a man shares how he hears his inner voice for the first time along with his story in another man’s story, he becomes aware of his interior capacities and cultivates internal and external listening skills. By sharing personal stories, men experience epiphanies that can result in connections and bonding.

Douglas Bonar, a 35-year veteran of mental health counseling and owner of A Center for Wellness, in Pinellas Park, Florida, has been facilitating men’s groups for 22 years. Men and occasionally women that have been court-ordered to undergo counseling with

fizkes/AdobeStock.com

Circles of Healing

Bonar for 29 weeks after their incarceration learn the value of growing together in community. “I initiate the uninitiated who’ve never heard about the powerful impacts of respectful, attentive listening without judgement, giving/receiving feedback and support, and learning about successes and failures in the company of community,” says Bonar. “Actively engaging the minds, hearts and energy of people participating in community makes experiencing emotional healing possible. Feeling truly heard and deeply listened to and comprehending life from a multisensory human perception and a sense of oneness can lead to understanding that we are never alone, the universe is alive—conscious, intelligent and compassionate.”

More about progress than perfection, Bonar’s unique Roots and Wings Way of Wholeness approach to healing in community tills the soil of an inner world and plants seeds via the introduction of guidelines for creating authentic power, spiritual growth, levels of consciousness, coherence, the realization of one’s true self as more than an enculturated personality, the Noetic experience of oneness, humans as energetic beings, emotions as energy in motion and a coherent energetic field that the HeartMath Institute notes creates synchronization, or entrainment, between the heart and mind, as well as a sense of unity.

Sharing Sacred Space Jean Shinoda Bolen, a Jungian psychiatrist, activist and author of Moving Toward the Millionth Circle: Energizing the Global Women’s Movement, encourages everyone to follow a path with soul and take on a personal assignment that contributes to change, while relying on the support of circle communities of like-minded individuals. “Fundamental principles applicable to any group include creating sacred space, listening with compassion and for wisdom, speaking from the heart and personal experience, inviting silence and reflection when needed, taking responsibility for your experience and your impact on the circle, keeping the confidence of the circle and making decisions when needed by consensus,” says Bolen, whose active events include a prayer circle and another with women she has been together with since the 1980s.

“The more frequently a circle meets to fully witness one another’s life stories, including all the changes and crises, a growing trust and heart connection occurs and a coherent energy field is created,” says Bolen. At the beginning of her circle gatherings, upon hearing the tone of a Tibetan bowl, she says, everyone immediately drops into coherence; a state of connectedness in which the whole is greater than the sum of the individual parts.

Cultivating Deep Listening As the host of New Dimensions, a nationally syndicated radio program that addresses cultural shifts, Justine Willis Toms has deeply explored interconnectedness with some of the greatest minds on the planet, including the Dalai Lama and physicist David Bohm.

Referring to her circle communities as “friends of the heart,” she enthuses, “When I am deeply listening to another or speaking authentically aloud in a circle of trust, I get to hear myself in a way that I don’t if I’m only listening to what is in my head.”

Recalling a tumultuous time in her life, Toms relates a profound healing experience that occurred in a circle community in which she and her husband had been participating since the 1980s. “This particular circle usually gathers for an entire weekend. On one, I arrived in deep distress—so much so that on Friday I began pouring out my fears, anxiety, blame and judgements. I raged through the night and didn’t stop until after breakfast on Saturday, when I felt complete, totally heard, emotionally healed and revived.”

From a sense of peace and clarity, Toms knew that healing occurred because of the circle’s capacity for deep listening. “We know and trust the true genius that each of us is, and we know how to not be afraid for each other when life is in a rollercoaster cycle and we’re at the bottom, but don’t want to pull the brake because we’ll never have the momentum to go back up. This is the power of a circle of friends of the heart who love you,” says Toms, who shares a favorite African saying, “‘A friend is someone who knows your song and sings it to you when you have forgotten it.

Those who love you are not fooled by the mistakes you’ve made or the dark images you hold about yourself. They remember your beauty when you feel ugly, your wholeness when you are broken, your innocence when you’re feeling guilty and your purpose when you are confused.’”

Connecting through Common Emotions Physician Jennifer Phelps, owner of Phelps MD Integrative Medicine, in Redding, Connecticut, is a trained facilitator of small groups who has worked in communities traumatized by natural disasters and human-caused catastrophes in her role as a faculty member of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C. “Where individuals listen to the grief and loss of others, emotional healing can be quite profound. Sharing stories in community, we learn we’re not alone and isolated, but rather related and connected in our human emotions,” says Phelps, adding that in groups of fewer than six people cohesiveness dissipates, leaving only conversation and cross-talk.

The process of human and community development unfolds from within each person, relationship and community. According to Cate Montana, of Kula, Hawaii, author of The E-Word: Ego, Enlightenment & Other Essentials, awakening to the illusion of separation, which can happen in community, sparks healing.

“The persona of an individual as only a body and mind is the big sleep,” advises Montana, whose life work has been about waking people up to the truth of their essential spiritual nature and giving them tools for a more fulfilling life.

Having experiences of fellowship and communion with like-minded people can make it possible to observe and understand how ego and mind function, and to become aware of crippling social programming which fragments, separates and divides us. Experiencing a sense of wholeness in such an environment allows for healing naturally on many levels.

Linda Sechrist is Natural Awakenings’ senior staff writer. Connect at LindaSechrist.com.

December 2021

23

healing ways

Amp Up Immunity

might help prevent colds, and taking it for up to six weeks may relieve seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itching and sneezing. It has also been shown to improve recovery after illness, disease or prolonged stress and to help post-chemotherapy patients regain health. Polish researchers found that rowing team athletes given 500 milligrams of astragalus root extract each day for six weeks had immune systems that recovered faster after strenuous exercise.

Proven Boosters for Good Health

foxyliam/AdobeStock.com

by Ronica O’Hara

A

s we head into the holidays, a gift that many of us wish for is a strong immune system to protect us not only from serious illness, but also from wintry coughs and sniffles. Robust immunity rests on three pillars, research shows: getting at least seven hours of sleep a night to allow immune functions to reboot; daily exercise to stimulate the production of white blood cells that fight off harmful bacteria and viruses; and plantbased foods to supply the antioxidants and phytochemicals needed to reduce inflammation and keep cells humming happily.

In addition, we can enhance immunity by adding specific adaptogens and mushroom powders into our daily routine.

These study-proven substances perform specific functions in the immune system that boost our resistance to illness. As powders, they can be easily added into drinks or foods, and they can also be taken as tinctures or pills.

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Modulating Immunity with Adaptogens Used for millennia in China and India, adaptogens are plants that keep the body in balance by helping it adapt to stress.

They interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a complex system of glands, hormones and receptors that helps manage homeostasis, stress responses and energy metabolism. “Adaptogens are a great way to boost immunity, especially if you are constantly sick and run down due to feeling stressed,” says Heather Hanks, a Plymouth, Michigan, nutritionist with USA Rx. Adaptogens typically take two or three weeks to become effective; follow package directions for proper dosage.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), an herb called locoweed in the U.S., boosts immune function by increasing natural killer cell activity and enhancing the function of macrophages, the “immune sentinels” that reside in tissues. A recent review suggests that long-term use of astragalus

Panax Ginseng, a perennial plant from East Asia, keeps the immune system in balance by regulating its components, including macrophages, dendritic cells and both T and B cells. It improves resistance to illness and microbial attacks, helps counter stress, controls inflammation, improves cognitive functions and has been found effective in the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, insulin resistance and hypertension.

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as holy basil, “enhances the immune response, protects the body against bacterial and viral infection and promotes clear and comfortable breathing,” says Ameya Duprey, a certified Ayurvedic practitioner in Nevada City, California. Studies show that it also helps prevent liver, kidney and brain injury by protecting against the genetic, immune and cellular damage caused by pesticides, pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.

The Marvel of Medicinal Mushrooms Used medicinally since at least 3,000 BCE, certain mushrooms have been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, anti-diabetic, liver-protective and anticancer properties.

They are usually not cooked, but rather taken as a powder that can be added to foods like smoothies, cereals and stir-fries.

Reishi mushrooms increase the activity of killer cells and lower inflammation in white cells, warding off infections. “They

are used by cancer patients, as they support a healthy immune system, have antioxidant properties and may prevent or treat infections,” says Linda Strause, Ph.D., an adjunct professor of human nutrition at University of California San Diego, whose husband with brain cancer was encouraged to take the mushrooms as a supplement.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensi) is harvested from the larvae of caterpillars in the high Himalayas. In a randomized, eight-week Korean study of 79 adults, supplementing with 1.7 grams of cordyceps extract daily led to a significant 38 percent increase in the activity of natural killer cells that protect against infection. It has been used traditionally to treat fatigue, sexual dysfunction, asthma, kidney problems, high blood pressure and weak hearts.

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) contains a compound called polysaccharide-K that stimulates the immune system. It also acts as a prebiotic, which promotes the health of the gut microbiome, a key player in immunity. A Harvard Medical School study of 22 healthy people found that taking 3,600 milligrams of polysaccharopeptide extracted from turkey tail mushrooms each day led to beneficial changes in gut bacteria and suppressed the growth of problematic E. coli and shigella bacteria.

Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

coming in january

Health & Wellness Issue

Maintaining a Healthy Immune System

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by Meena Malhotra

he immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs throughout the body that helps fight infection and disease. It comprises white blood cells and the lymphatic system, which includes the thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, lymph vessels and bone marrow.

Our immune system is on constant guard to protect against viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. This system also keeps us free of cancer. Lupus, rheumatoid issues and other autoimmune diseases in which the body attacks its own healthy cells, occur due to immune dysregulation.

Here is a simple quiz to help assess immune system health: n Do you bruise easily? n Do you have digestive issues (85 percent of our immune system resides in the gut)? n Has stress taken a toll (feeling overwhelmed)? n Do you have autoimmune illnesses like RA, lupus, psoriasis, etc.? n Are you taking meds which can suppress the immune system (steroids or biologics)?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, then you need to pay extra attention to your immune system.

This acronym is very helpful for understanding how to keep the immune system robust and avoid nasty seasonal pathogens.

I

stands for intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting can be undertaken in many ways with different durations, depending upon our health status. Fasting may improve autophagy, which means removing damaged cells and pathogens from the body, which is beneficial to improving immune function

M stands for maintaining social distance. Six feet is the number—avoid crowded places.

M stands for masking. Practice common sense hygiene practices such as washing

hands frequently, especially before eating. Cough and sneeze in the elbow and greet by namaste or elbow bump.

U stands for unwinding. This is crucial to shift from a fight-or-flight response. Chill, relax and sleep; this is when the body releases cytokines which help fight infection.

N

stands for nutrition. Eat a balanced, whole-food diet with plenty of vitamin C from fresh fruits and vegetables, phytonutrients (compounds which give fruits and vegetables their bright color), shiitake mushrooms, garlic, honey and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea. One orange typically has around 62 milligrams of ascorbic acid.

If unable to get an adequate amount from diet, take buffered vitamin C in liposomal form that doesn’t upset the stomach and turn into kidney stones. Nutraceuticals like vitamin D, zinc, selenium, probiotics, essential fatty acids, medicinal mushrooms such as maitake, reishi and cordyceps are welcome additions. Avoid alcohol and smoking.

E stands for exercise. We don’t have to kill ourselves doing it; moderation is the answer.

Meena Malhotra, M.D., is the medical director of the Heal n Cure Wellness Center, located at 2420 Ravine Way, Ste. 400, in Glenview. For a consultation, call 847-686-4444. For more information, visit HealnCure.com. See ad on page 3, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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recipes from a plant-based kitchen

Jolly Treats Can Be Healthy

by Annette Licitra

A

Pumpkin Chili with Cashew Cream Topper yield: 4 servings cooking time: 2 hours (to soak cashews) and 45 minutes Chili

1 large yellow onion, diced 1 Tbsp unrefined, virgin coconut oil 2 red peppers, deseeded and diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced 1 sweet potato, diced 6 cups organic vegetable stock 1 cup tomato puree 26

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Photo credit Annette Licitra

Add peppers to pot, and cook for another 5 minutes. Add garlic, stir with spatula, and cook for 1 minute, taking care not to burn.

½ cup canned pumpkin 2 tsp cumin 2 Tbsp chili powder 1 tsp smoked paprika 2 tsp salt 2 15-oz cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed ½ cup cashew cream (recipe below – make ahead of time) Toppings (optional): cilantro, avocado, extra cashew “sour cream”, jalapenos

Cashew “Sour Cream” Topper

Add butternut squash, sweet potato, vegetable stock, tomato puree, canned pumpkin, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika and salt. Bring to a boil, and cook butternut squash and sweet potato until soft.

Turn down heat to low, add white beans and cashew cream, and simmer for 15 minutes to slightly thicken and let flavors develop.

Remove from heat, and divide into 4 bowls.

Add toppings and enjoy.

Photo credit Annette Licitra

s colder temperatures are settling in, what’s better to do than cozy up on the couch to watch a movie with a hearty bowl of pumpkin chili, a hot cup of decadent sipping chocolate and a plush, warm blanket. Not everyone gets a cold or the flu during this time of year, but it’s best to be prepared and support that amazing immune system of ours so we can enjoy the holiday season.

One important way to ensure that we stay strong is lowering refined sugar intake.

This might sound a bit crazy, given that there are so many tempting foods during the holidays, but it isn’t as difficult as you may think. Finding delicious recipes that replace refined sugar with natural sugar is key.

Enjoy the chilly nights at home with these tasty twists on classic warming recipes. We’re taking chili to a new level by keeping it plant-based and tossing in some savory winter squash and sweet potato.

In addition, we’re switching up the sugar in this rich, hot, sipping chocolate from refined sugar to honey (or maple syrup— your choice). Same great flavors … unique ways to change them up. Give these recipes a try and most of all … have fun with them.

Hot Sipping Chocolate

1 cup raw cashews, soaked Juice of ½ lemon 1-2 tsp apple cider vinegar 1 pinch sea salt 1 clove garlic, minced ½ cup unsweetened nondairy milk or water

This is free of gluten/wheat, corn, soy, eggs, dairy, canola oil, refined sugar. One can also use as a chocolate dipping sauce for strawberries, bananas and other fruits.

For cashew cream: Soak cashews in water for 2 hours.

Drain, rinse and add to a blender or food processor with all other ingredients. Alternatively, add all ingredients to a deep bowl and puree with immersion blender.

Blend until well combined and creamy.

Taste and adjust as necessary.

8 fl oz (1 cup) 100% coconut milk 4 Tbsp raw cacao powder 3 Tbsp high-quality honey

For chili: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt coconut oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

yield: 1-2 servings cooking time: 5 minutes

Add all ingredients to small saucepan, then whisk, and simmer over low heat until just melted. Pour into a mug and enjoy.

Annette Licitra is an integrative health coach, wellness chef and the founder and owner of Passionette Palate, in Winfield. For more information, email Annette@PassionettePalate.com, visit PassionettePalate.com and follow her on social media.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Gluten-Free Mint Chocolate Crinkles

Make These Holiday Hits

Photo Credits Emily Cummings

yield: two dozen cookies

at Home

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by Tiffany Hinton

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop form a round ball of dough. Roll in powdered sugar until covered and place on a prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are crackled and puffy. Remove from the oven and allow to sit on the baking sheet for 15 minutes. Move to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Lemon Balm and Lavender Mocktail

Photo Credit Emily Cummings

yield: one serving

Muddle lemon balm leaves in the bottom of martini glass. Pour in lemonade and mineral water. Pour in Holistik stress powder and stir to combine. Enjoy the peace of the afternoon in style.

Preheat the oven to 350º F. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper. Put the powdered sugar in a small bowl. In a medium bowl, mix together the baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl with an electric mixer or stand mixer, beat butter and mint infused sugar on medium speed until creamy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides with a spatula. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat on medium until well blended. Add flour mixture and mix on low until blended.

his time of the year, celebrating is top of mind for many of us. From the traditional Christmas to Hanukkah to the Winter Solstice, there are many times to celebrate and enjoy with friends and family. The tradition of decorating with pine and utilizing pine around the winter solstice is thousands of years old. Pine is associated with bringing energy, bestowing blessings and helping ensure safety for all. What better way to include pine than by including herbs from the mint family, where pines live, into the food and beverages we share with family and friends.

There is a wide variety of herbs in the mint family which have been shown to help ease headaches and aid in digestion. These two benefits alone are perfect for the holiday season, especially will all the extra holiday treats and activity filling our days.

Unleash your inner mixologist to concoct a round of vintage drinks. From mint juleps to fizzling mocktails, water-soluble CBD STIKS make your classic cocktails a holiday hit. Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, has made great strides over the past few years, earning the praise of health and wellness enthusiasts, as well as members of the medical community. Cheers!

¼ cup mineral water ¼ cup lemonade 4 lemon balm leaves 1 Holistik stress STIK

½ cup powdered sugar 1⅔ cup gluten free flour ½ cup cocoa powder 1½ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 stick butter 1¼ cup infused mint sugar 2 eggs ½ tsp vanilla extract

Download the GF Mom Certified 2021 Holiday Guide by visiting bit.ly/gfmomcertifiedholidayguide21. Make sure not to miss out on the holiday guide fun by following me on Instagram at @gfmomcertified, and signing up for holiday guide text updates at 872-261-2222 by texting HELLO to us.

Shop Holistic Wellness at bit.ly/holistikcbdgfmom21

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conscious eating

The Sweet Danger of Sugar ways to enjoy healthier holiday fare

by Christy Ratliff

azurita/AdobeStock.com

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hocolate Santas, decorated cookies and other sweet confections are ingrained in our holiday traditions, yet sugary food does little to actually make us feel merry and bright in the long run.

A high-sugar diet increases the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, inflammation, weight gain and weight-related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It can also contribute to tooth decay and acne. “Most high-sugar foods are ‘treats’ and are not intended to be high in nutrition or consumed instead of healthier foods,” says Shelley Maniscalco, registered dietitian and CEO of the consulting firm Nutrition on Demand, in Arlington, Virginia. “When we have too many foods that are what we call calorie-dense versus nutrient-dense, we run the risk of displacing healthier foods, and, therefore, under-consuming key nutrients.”

This can impact mental health and impair the body’s ability to manage stress. “When we eat nutritious foods, and our gut is healthy, we obtain necessary nutrients to create neurotransmitters, which are key to optimal mental health,” explains Maggie Roney, a licensed counselor and certified functional medicine provider in Wylie, Texas. “There’s mood-stabilizing serotonin, which is a precursor for melatonin, needed for sleep; dopamine, involved in pleasure, focus and motivation; and GABA, which provides a calming effect that can help with stress and anxiety. All of these require amino acids, zinc, iron, vitamin D, magnesium, copper and B vitamins.”

In moderation, sugar is not necessarily detrimental to our health and well-being, but differentiating between naturally occurring sugar and added sugar is key to finding a middle ground. “New changes in the food label allow consumers to more easily identify sources of sugar in foods,” Maniscalco says. “Many healthy foods naturally contain sugars, such as fructose in fruits and lactose in dairy products. These natural sugars don’t need to be avoided. When checking the label, look for amounts of added sugars and choose the options that have less.”

Foods and beverages with added sugars are now required to list the number of grams and percent daily value for added sugars on the nutrition facts label. For example, a container of yogurt with fruit on the bottom might list total sugars at 15 grams (g), including 7 g of added sugar, which means 8 g of naturally occurring sugars.

Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them.

–Ricardo Díaz In a society long obsessed with counting calories, we may assume we’re making smart choices with low-fat, non-fat, reduced calorie or light versions of grocery items. But, the amount of added sugar is actually higher in low calorie versions of a wide variety of foods because sugar is used to compensate for the loss of flavor from fat. “Sugar tastes good and balances out other flavors, so many foods that we wouldn’t consider sweet have added sugars,” says Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., bariatric program manager and senior research investigator at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Common products include pasta sauce, cereal and salad dressing. Reading food labels looking specifically for added sugars is key to finding these foods.”

“Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them,” adds Ricardo Díaz, chef and registered dietitian nutritionist at the

New York-based nonprofit Wellness in the Schools, which works to improve nutrition in school lunches. “Many savory or salty foods tend to have added sugars, such as tortilla chips, popcorn, jerky and frozen prepared foods. Check your labels and compare between products on the supermarket shelves to find the healthiest pick for you and your loved ones.”

“Often, we think of eating in ‘all or nothing’ terms. When we cut out foods we enjoy, it often backfires and we end up overeating them in the end when our willpower runs out,” Maniscaclo says.

“I would really encourage mindfulness in eating so that individuals can enjoy treats in moderation and feel satisfied by them so that there’s less need to over consume. Also, being physically active year-round is a great habit to get into and can create more space in the diet for treats.”

As we implement these small but significant low-sugar strategies, we’ll be rewarded with better physical and emotional health all year long. That’s something to celebrate.

Christy Ratliff is a professional health and wellness writer based in Central Florida.

Tips to Eat Less Sugar

brent hofacker/AdobeStock.com

Shelley Maniscalco, MPH, RD: Eat fruit. Most are naturally sweet and provide healthy nutrients without a lot of calories. As an added bonus, the fiber and water content in fruit helps with feeling satiated.

Add spices and fresh herbs. Studies show that adding them enhances flavor, and it also lowers the use of such unhealthy nutrients as added sugars, sodium and saturated fats.

Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., RD: Choose plain yogurt, as it contains no added sugar. Top it with fresh fruit, cinnamon or nuts. Choose yogurt that contains live and active cultures, as these promote gut health and boost immunity.

maxim khytra/AdobeStock.com

Nearly a quarter of added sugars consumed come from sugar-sweetened beverages such as sodas and fruit drinks, even more than from desserts and sweets. A simple way of reducing added sugar is reducing intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. Three approaches are: setting a frequency goal (limit to x times per week); setting a portion goal (limit to x ounces per day); or setting a substitution goal (replace sugar-sweetened beverages with sugar-free options).

Jennifer Martin-Biggers, Ph.D., RDN: To reduce sugar intake, as with any other new habit or behavior change, it’s important to set manageable goals and set new ones as you go.

Another way to support dietary changes is through supplementation. The mineral chromium, in particular in the form of chromium picolinate, has been shown in clinical studies to reduce food cravings. ronstik/AdobeStock.com

marilyn barbone/AdobeStock.com

Chef and dietitian nutritionist Ricardo Díaz: Swap out fruit juice cocktails and fruit juice concentrates for whole fruits and 100 percent fruit juice. Fruit beverages rely on added sugar to provide much of their sweetness.

Choose whole grains over enriched grains.

Include a variety of whole grains in your diet, such as oats, brown rice or whole-wheat pastas and breads.

To maximize fiber intake, pick products labeled “100% Whole Grains” over labels stating “Whole Grains” or “Multigrain”.

Make your own baked goods. Besides controlling the amount of sugar in your treats, baking at home is a great way to get your youngest family members involved in cooking.

Film Suggestion: Watch That Sugar Film, a 2014 Australian documentary/drama directed by Damon Gameau at WatchDocumentaries.com/ that-sugar-film. According to New York Times film critic Daniel M. Gold, “The food-doc shelf is crowded with good-for-you movies, including Fed Up, Fast Food Nation, Food Inc. and, yes, Super Size Me. That Sugar Film is a worthy addition, entertaining while informing.”

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Low- or No-Sugar Holiday Treats Baklava Cookie Cups 2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour 1 tsp orange zest ½ tsp ground cardamom ¼ tsp salt 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature ¾ cup honey 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

photo provided by allrecipes.com

filling and syrup:

½ cup pistachios, chopped ½ cup honey 3 Tbsp water 2 tsp orange juice 4 green cardamom pods, crushed 1 cinnamon stick

Heat oven to 350° F and grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, orange zest, cardamom and salt. In the bowl of a standing mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and honey for about 1-2 minutes. (The mix will look a little curdled at this point and that’s fine; scrape down the sides.) Beat in the eggs, then the vanilla. Mix in the flour in

two parts. Using a cookie scoop, scoop the dough into the prepared muffin tin and bake for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven; let sit for about 3-4 minutes before using a dowel to carefully press down in the center of each cookie to make a well. Let the cookies cool for about 15 minutes in the tin before removing to a cooling rack to cool completely. In a small saucepan over medium heat, prepare the syrup by combining the honey, water, orange juice, cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer and remove from the heat. Drizzle a small amount in the bottom of each cookie cup and then fill with the chopped pistachios. Drizzle more syrup on top of the filled cookie cups.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Courtesy of the National Honey Board. For more information, visit Honey.com.

Baked Apples

Preheat oven to 375° F. Wash apples.

Using an apple corer, remove cores and leave ½ inch of the bottom of each apple. (If using a paring knife, just cut the center core out fully.) Make the hole ¾-inch wide, and remove the seeds using a spoon. Place the cored apples in an 8-inch-by 8-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle lemon juice over apples to prevent browning. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, chopped nuts and raisins or another dried fruit. Stuff each apple with the filling mixture. Top with a dot of butter (about ½ to ¾ tsp per apple). Add boiling water to baking pan.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until tender, but not mushy. Remove baked apples from the 30

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oven, and baste apples several times with the juice from the pan. (Apples can be baked in a muffin tin. Place muffin liners into the muffin tins, and place cored apples inside.)

Chef ’s Note: Personalize the baked apples with seasonal fillings and spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom or pumpkin pie spice. For a twist, try a savory, fresh herb like rosemary or thyme.

Courtesy of Wellness in the Schools. For more information, visit WellnessInThe Schools.org. roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

4 large Granny Smith baking apples Juice of one lemon (about ¼ cup) 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup chopped pecans or another nut of choice ¼ cup raisins or another dried fruit of choice 1 tsp butter ¾ cup boiling water

A Dietician’s Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark This dark chocolate bark recipe is holiday-themed with red, white and green toppings. Other topping options include almonds, dried fruit, sunflower, pumpkin or hemp seeds or granola.

Pour melted chocolate onto the prepared baking tray. Spread to ⅛-inch thickness.

While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle with dried cranberries, chopped pistachios and shredded coconut. To set, place tray in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes or in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. Break the bark into pieces and serve. Store extra pieces at room temperature in an airtight container.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Create a double boiler by placing a saucepan filled with a few inches of water and topped with a glass bowl over medium heat. Bring the water to a boil. Add two thirds of the chocolate and let melt, stirring until smooth. Take off the heat and stir in the remaining chocolate.

Courtesy of Jessica Bippen, MS, RD. For more information, visit HUMNutrition.com/blog.

kolesnikovserg/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

6 oz dark chocolate ¼ cup raw pistachios ¼ cup dried cranberries 2 Tbsp shredded coconut

Honey Lavender Cookies This recipe was developed after lavender was accidentally weeded from the garden.

These cookies are made with honey and whole-wheat flour.

coming in january

creamed butter until incorporated.

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Beat butter in a bowl with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat honey, egg and lavender into the

Stir flour, ½ cup at a time, into butter mixture until blended. Drop spoonful of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven until cookies are browned on the bottom, about 15 minutes.

Courtesy of Sue B. For more information, visit AllRecipes.com.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels

½ cup butter, softened ½ cup honey 1 egg 1 Tbsp lavender flowers 2 cups whole-wheat flour

Health & Wellness Issue

roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

yield: about 24 cookies

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fit body

Winter is No Time to Hibernate

by Brendan M. Cournane

Get Out the Door While it may seem more appealing to curl up in a snuggie with a cup of hot chocolate in front of a fireplace rather than head out the door for a walk or a run, exercising in winter is more exhilarating than any other time of the year, with studies showing mood improvement through exercise.

Often, we feel we have accomplished enough in the warmth and sunlight of summer only to feel the draw to rest and hibernate during the winter months. Instead, take stock of the goals set ear-

lier. Whether or not those goals have been met, winter is a maintenance season that sets the stage for further improvement when the time is right. Our winter outdoor exercise routine may be less vigorous than in summer, but is it not less beneficial (with a little preparation on how to run in cold weather).

Without a review of where we are at and where we want to go, there is a tendency to stop our activity completely. Instead, resetting our goals in the fall, maintaining a base in winter and planning for springtime sets the stage for continued improvement, starting from a solid base, not from square one. While less activity is commonplace in winter, it is important to have a goal and a plan.

Personality Type It is important to understand our favored personality type: Tasmanian devil, eagle or honeybee. The Tasmanian devil is nocturnal and performs best at night; the eagle in the early morning; and the honeybee in the afternoon. No type is inherently better than the other; each evolved differently and performs better at certain times of the day. Likewise with humans. We may perform best in the evening, the morning or the middle of the afternoon. Knowing our type is a way to stay motivated in an exercise program, setting time to exercise at a time most conducive to our best performance. This is more important when exercising in winter than in the spring and summer, as there are enough other distractions in the cold.

Following a routine is key to staying motivated in the fall and winter. Knowing when we are most likely to exercise sets the routine.

The author kayaking in Antarctica

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Photo courtesy of Brendan Cournane

W

inter brings a natural transition. We see shorter amounts of sunlight each day, and gone are the late evening sunsets as darkness surrounds us before dinner.

When temperatures plummet, nighttime comes early and the wind rises with a chill in the air, it can be difficult to motivate ourselves to stay active, knowing that the cold and snow of winter are around the corner.

When trees lose their leaves, it may bring about a sense of loss until we recall the reason is to conserve energy for the shorter nights and colder weather, only to blossom again when spring erupts. Like the trees, humans can conserve energy in winter while resetting goals and recommitting to them.

There is a natural progression to life. We start an activity, increase our activity, reach a goal and then relax until it is time to start again. Rest and recovery are important both in nature and in humans up to a point. Winter is not a time of loss. Rather, it provides time to review, reset and recommit.

Tips for Motivation Having reviewed our personality type and reset our goals, we recommit to the activity.

Here are five steps to get and stay motivated in winter: Get moving; any movement is better than no movement; even 15 or 20 minutes is better than nothing—if we can’t fit in a full workout, get a partial workout to maintain the routine An outdoor workout is better than an indoor workout; being in a natural setting increases the benefits to the body and the mind

Life Changes can be Bumpy, even Turbulent!

You can consciously choose how you want to come out the other side. Call me.

Let’s turn your stress to strength so you can move through in a more confident, kinder, and joyful way!

Coaching and De-stressing – so YOU can Change Your World!

262-745-8362 • www.SarahDKarnes.com

Grab a buddy; committing to meeting a friend increases the likelihood of completing a workout Stay untethered; exercise without multitasking, stay focused on the moment, not being on a Zoom call or answering the phone when exercising Keep it natural; feel the rhythm of the exercise and don’t rely on music or technology to set the pace Following these guidelines improves the likelihood of getting to and continuing what is sometimes referred to as a ‘runner’s high’, or state of mindfulness. While the condition of runner’s high is physiological and occurs due to a chemical reaction in our brain—a combination of dopamine, cortisol and adrenaline working together to achieve the effect—mindfulness is a confluence of physical, mental and emotional responses as a result of self-awareness and recognition of an inner state of being by non-reactive, non-judgmental attention to what we feel in the moment.

Like the trees conserving energy by dropping leaves or flowers hunkering underground to await spring, we too are invigorated by exercising intentionally in winter.

Brendan M. Cournane is a professional development coach and endurance athlete who helps his clients understand why they do what they do and how to align their core values with how they work and live a happier life. Find him at CoachBrendan.com.

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The Best Books for Kids Gift Choices that Can Open Up Worlds

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by Sandra Yeyati

H

elping children learn to read and love books is one of the greatest parental endeavors. Many kids learn their first words after hearing the adults in their lives sing a lullaby or tell them a nursery rhyme. “Building a child’s vocabulary is the key to reading, and rhymes, singing, word games, synonyms, homonyms and rap are great places to start,” says Claudette McLinn, executive director of the Los Angeles-based Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature and former librarian, teacher, school administrator and children’s bookstore owner.

A child’s first reading experience will likely involve a picture book. “What’s powerful about picture books is that the illustrations and text intertwine,” McLinn explains. “You can read them aloud together. As the child looks at the artwork, the adult can ask, ‘What is that?’ And the child can use their imagination while you teach them to observe, articulate and start the reading process.”

To encourage childhood reading, it’s helpful to have a variety of books around the house and to set aside reading time every day. “It costs nothing to check out a pile of 25 books at the library, take them home and try them,” says Maeve Knoth, a librarian at Phillips Brooks School, in Menlo Park, California. When buying books, she suggests consulting 34

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librarians and booksellers for recommendations, as well as relying on book awards such as the Newbery or Caldecott medals, and on book lists compiled every year by reputable organizations and committees, notably the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association.

Choosing books for kids should always start by discovering what their passions or interests are and then finding a good book on that subject, says McLinn, adding that encouraging children to browse the shelves and choose their own books is an empowering exercise that builds self-esteem and a love of reading. Whether it’s dinosaurs,

cars or the stars and planets, there’s a kid’s book about it. “Although fiction is important early on because it increases imagination, nonfiction books help kids learn new information and understand the role of the table of contents, the glossary and index, and informative diagrams,” she says, adding that she prefers award-winning nonfiction books because they’ve been vetted for accuracy.

“Kids often gravitate toward books that are a little bit less challenging,” Knoth says.

“While I have no objection to those popular books, which are lots of fun, they’re not going to give kids a new way to think about themselves or the world. I want my children to have consequential reading experiences with books that offer new points of view where kids can live in someone else’s heart and mind for a little while. I want them to know what it might be like to live in a different time period or to grow up in China.”

According to Knoth, a great children’s book will include an engaging character that has an experience, prompting them to change and grow. “I want it to be well structured and beautifully written, with setting, point of view and all those elements that fit together to create a theme and give you a literary experience,” she explains. She looks for nuanced books that invite kids to use their imagination and find their own way.

“The reader might be young, but they’re not dumb. They just haven’t had lots of experiences yet. If a book concludes with one narrow solution to a child’s problem, then I would say it’s not that useful or successful,” says Knoth, a frequent contributor to The Horn Book, a resource for children’s book reviews and articles.

Children’s Book Awards Newbery Medal: Tinyurl.com/Newbery-Medal-Award Caldecott Medal: Tinyurl.com/ Caldecott-Medal-Award American Indian Youth Literature Awards: Tinyurl.com/American-Indian-Award Pura Belpré Award, celebrating Latino culture: Tinyurl.com/Pura-Belpre-BookAward Coretta Scott King Awards, showcasing African American values: Tinyurl. com/Coretta-Scott-King-Awards Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature: Tinyurl.com/Asian-Pacific-American-Award Sydney Taylor Book Award, portraying the Jewish experience: Tinyurl.com/Sydney-Taylor-Award McLinn believes that kids should be exposed to a diversity of authors and illustrators that explore the lives of all cultures.

“We live in silos with the people in our group, and we don’t know anything about other groups,” she explains. “When you read about other cultures, you learn that we are more alike than we are different.

We may eat different foods, wear different clothing and have different customs, but you find out that it’s not scary. Kids love

Children’s Book Lists Rainbow Book List, presenting LGBTQIA+ viewpoints: glbtrt.ala.org/ rainbowbooks Best Books by the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature: csmcl.org/best-books-2020 Cooperative Children’s Book Center Booklists, various topics: Tinyurl.com/ ccbcBookList Association for Library Service to Children Book Lists, various genres and topics: Tinyurl.com/alscBookList Notable Children’s Books by the Association for Library Service to Children, identifying the best of the best in children’s books: Tinyurl.com/ alscNotableBooks

to read about heroes that they can identify with and become their friends. Children are into social justice and fairness. As a child, I loved biographies. I wanted to read about great people and what made them great so that maybe I could be great like them.”

Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@ gmail.com.

Books make great gifts because they have whole worlds inside of them. ~Neil Gaiman

INSPIRATION . COMMUNITY . HEALING Resources for your spiritual journey, and your physical, mental & emotional well-being Find them at

. Christian Science Reading Rooms . Local events . Online podcasts . Community worship services on Wednesdays and Sundays

CSMetroChicago.org December 2021

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natural chicago

Nature and Environment Book Groups INSPIRE READERS

by Sheryl DeVore

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Stacy Iwanicki, who co-founded a nature book discussion group at Volo Bog, holds her favorite book, A Sand County Almanac. Iwanicki is naturalist at Volo Bog State Natural Area, in Ingleside.

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Photo credit Volo Bog State Natural Area

O

ne of the most memorable books Stacy Iwanicki read in high school was A Sand County Almanac, by Aldo Leopold, who was often referred to as the father of wildlife ecology. “It brought history and nature to life,” says Iwanicki, now a naturalist at Volo Bog State Natural Area, in Ingleside. (FriendsOfVoloBog.org)

Iwanicki co-founded the book discussion group Of Bogs & Books in 1994.

It meets monthly, virtually and in person, at Volo Bog under the auspices of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Meetings are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the second Saturday of the month. “It’s not a club. You don’t need to belong or be a member,” Iwanicki says. “You don’t have to commit to anything. You can drop in once every three years or you can come every month—whenever the title inspires you and the time allows.”

Of Bogs & Books is one of the few book discussion groups in the region that focuses only on nature and the environment, according to Iwanicki. Other similar groups can be found at some suburban libraries, and many meet online, allowing for readers from long distances to participate.

Iwanicki chose A Sand County Almanac for the group’s first read. “With each successive read, I grew more and more in love with that book. It’s timeless. I would love to see it be an assigned reading for high school students,” says Iwanicki, adding that the discussion group has read the book at least four times over the years.

Iwanicki has read part of one of the

One of the books read by the discussion group at Volo Bog and also one of Stacy Iwanicki’s top ten is Owls of the Eastern Ice. Chicago

NAChicago.com

chapters, “Marshland Elegy,” about losing sandhill crane habitat, aloud to high school students. “I had their rapt attention,” she recalls. “Nature is transformative, and so is reading books about nature.”

Of the nearly 300 titles read since the group was founded, most have been about nature experiences, from difficult journeys into wilderness to exploring insects in the backyard. (Email dnr.VoloBog@Illinois.gov for a complete list).

“Our environmental awareness today is bigger than ever, but I think at the same time, more and more people are getting disconnected from the natural part of the environment,” Iwanicki explains. “Reading books about people being out in nature can entice people back into the wild. During our discussions, we talk about biodiversity.”

Sometimes people will say something negative about hunters, but Iwanicki points out, “Hunters spend more time out in nature than a lot of people who fancy themselves as environmentally aware. We need to stop demonizing each other and listen to each other and spend time with each other. The book discussion is a good catalyst to engage conversation.”

Retired environmental science teacher Michael Mieszala, of Libertyville, says Iwanicki agreed to have his students choose a book annually and lead a discussion each November for the book group.

“When I was teaching at Warren Township High School, in Gurnee, I would always look for real-world experiences for my students. This was the case where my students could get involved in the planning, the discussion, the reading of a book and see a unique natural area,” he says.

One of their most recent titles was

Photo credit Volo Bog State Natural Area

Wisdom of Wolves, by Jim and Jamie Dutcher, who lived alongside wolves for several years documenting their behaviors. “Not only did the students lead the discussion, but they also invited the authors via Skype to join,” Mieszala recalls. His students told him that Of Bogs & Books helped them realize that adults also care about nature and the environment.

“It was a real eye-opener for them,” he notes.

The November read for Volo Bog book Books selected often discussion group was a New York greatly impact the readTimes bestseller, Mama’s Last Hug. ers, according to Iwanicki.

One member emailed her saying, “If I had read this book as a child, my life may have taken a

Finding environmental/nature book discussion groups Some Chicago region libraries and environmental groups host environment/nature book discussions. Volo Bog State Natural Area Naturalist Stacy Iwanicki suggests contacting the local library or even starting a nature book group. Here are some to check.

Go Green Illinois conducts a variety of environmental/nature book discussion groups in the suburbs, including in Northbrook, Wilmette, Winnetka and Highland Park. The groups typically meet quarterly or every other month at local libraries, with some done virtually.

For example: Go Green Northbrook will discuss “The Invention of Nature,” from 10:30-11:30 a.m., Jan. 25, virtually. Visit Visit.Northbrook.info/event/5746695.

More information is available at local GoGreen websites, including: GoGreenWinnetka.org/go-green-reads GoGreenWilmette.org/go-green-reads GoGreenHighlandPark.org/go-green-reads GoGreenNorthbrook.org/ or visit GoGreenIllinois.org.

The Aurora Public Library hosts a book club for nature enthusiasts from 3 to 4:30 p.m. once a month on select Saturdays. The club is a partnership between the city of Aurora Naturalist Team, Aurora Public Library and the Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership. In-person and online meetings are scheduled.

December’s book is Silent Spring, by Rachel Carson. For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/things_to_do/aurora_public_library/programs___events/book_clubs

Stacy’s Top Ten List Volo Bog naturalist Stacy Iwanicki offers her top ten list of nature books that she suggests might serve as great holiday gifts for the green reader.

A Sand County Almanac: Aldo Leopold, 1986 Owls of the Eastern Ice: Jonathan C. Slaight, 2020 The Home Place: Memoirs of a Colored Man’s Love Affair With Nature: J. Drew Lanham, 2017 Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard: Doug Tallamy, 2020 Indian Givers: Jack Weatherfood, 1988 Black Elk Speaks: John G. Neihardt, 2014 Undaunted Courage: Stephen E. Ambrose, 1996 Last of the Curlews: Fred Bosworth, 2011 The Sense of Wonder: Rachel Carson, 1965 Last Child in the Woods: Saving Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder: Richard Louv, 2006

different direction. I would have wanted to become an entomologist and study under Anne.” She’s referring to Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson, author of Buzz, Sting, Bite: Why We Need Insects, published in 2019.

Iwanicki says of the author, “She’s a scientist and one of the most accessible science writers ever.” Reading the book engendered a discussion about animal and human traits and feelings. Iwanicki says the book helps those that fear insects to begin enjoying their beautiful colors and the way they move their wings. “The author brings out the little kid in you wanting to observe these things and be awed. We found a recording of her speaking and watched that together.”

In the last decade, the group has worked to find more diversity in voices. One of those is author J. Drew Lanham, who wrote The Home Place – Memories of a Colored Man’s Love Affair With Nature. Another book the group recently read is Way Out There: Adventures of a Wilderness Trekker, by African American John Robert Harris. “He did crazy, wilderness treks that many would not be able to do,” Iwanicki says. “But he was a very humble man, and he made sure you all understood that if you wanted to walk through your neighborhood, that was just as valid as walking some outback in Australia or in Chile.”

Harris joined the book discussion and later presented a talk to the members. “He has a positive outlook on humanity,” Iwanicki says. “His book reminded me of another book, Grandma Gatewood’s Walk, by Ben Montgomery. She walked and helped save the Appalachian Trail. These authors are in their 70s. Walking is something that anybody can do, just about anybody, and you should do it and keep doing it. Keep moving. And keep reading about nature.”

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as nature, health and environment stories for national and regional publications. Read more at SherylDeVore.wordpress.com.

December 2021

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calendar of events CALENDAR DEADLINE: All listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Calendar events must be submitted online at NAChicago.com/Calendar.

Call First: Events or services may be cancelled, postponed or are now offered online.

Call and check websites for up-to-date information.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3

World Aids Day

Int’l Day of Persons with Disabilities

ONLINE: Invasive Species Eradication Innovations – 11am-2pm. Topics & speakers: What’s Going on with Invasive Species in the Chicago Region?

by Dr. Chai-Shian Kua, The Morton Arboretum.

Inspiring Awareness of a Popular Invasive Tree: Missouri’s Callery Pear Buy Back Program by Carol Davit, Director, Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF) and chair of the Missouri Invasive Plant Task Force (MoIP). Healthy Homes and Sustainable Yards: Replacing Invasives in Residential Landscapes by Sarah Michehl, Community Engagement Specialist, The Land Conservancy of McHenry County. Designing with the Miyawaki Method: Keep Invasives Out and Grow a Healthy Ecosystem by Ethan Bryson, Founder, Natural Urban Forests. Free. Via Zoom.

Registration required: Tinyurl.com/34s6n9bf.

Gua Sha – 10am-5pm. A rubbing technique applied to the surface of the skin with a smooth tool resulting in drawing out stagnation and stimulating the connective tissues. Works to mobilize blood, qi and lymph in the body, resolving chronic injuries and pain, and benefitting internal disorders. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

Sustainable Forestry Webinar: Remembering the Rouse Simmons and Crew – 6-6:40pm. On the first weekend in December, each year the U.S. Coast Guard honors Captain Schuenemann and his crew by coordinating the distribution of Christmas trees to families in need from Navy Pier. This virtual program is in support of our federal partners. USDA Forest Service specialists will provide information to the public about the importance of tree harvesting for the environment. To register: 815-423-6370 or SM.FS.Midewin_RSVP@usda.gov. Facebook.com/ events/293033039077886.

Letting Go of the Past: Public Talk & Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Join us for a special evening of meditation, inspiration and practical instruction. Learn to develop and maintain a realistic and positive outlook, especially during our uncertain times. Open to all levels, from complete beginner to experienced meditators. In-person and online. $5. Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago in Oak Park, 13 Harrison St, Oak Park. 708-763-0132. MeditateInChicago.org.

ONLINE: AllOne Conscious Conversations – 7:55-9pm. Discover your true self beyond the ego state. Join Sharon Berkowitz and Lynda Hope with Special Guest Makara live from New Mexico.

Passcode for Zoom: vXZ5dD. Zoom link: Zoom. us/j/4813143144.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2 One of a Kind Holiday Show – Dec 2-5. 10am8pm, Thurs, Sat; 10am-5pm, Sun. A one-of-a-kind shopping experience that supports the creative community and hundreds of talented artists, makers and designers. Find the most unique gifts for everyone on your list. Shop directly from 400 artists while enjoying a festive experience with great food and drink. The Mart, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago. OneOfAKindShowChicago.com.

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Chicago

NAChicago.com

ONLINE:: Joann Lysiak Gems and Jewelry Show – Dec 3 & 10. 6:30-8pm. Shop gemstones and jewelry with purpose for your benefit and results to attract love, abundance, protection, positivity or spiritual enlightenment. Gemstones all have energy properties for you to harness for your best and highest good. Contact to attend and receive 15% off both nights. More info: Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com.

Zoom link: Tinyurl.com/3npmtj59.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 Dis ah – Moon of Little Long Day

Morning Bird Hike – 8-10am. December may seem cold and gray, but leafless trees make it is easier to see birds. Join us on this guided hike to search for birds that spend winters in Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve. Hike 1.5-2 miles on paved and natural surfaces across uneven terrain. Age 16+. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Crete Township near Beecher. Registration required by Dec 3: 708946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Reindeer Run 5K – 8-11:30am. Get your holiday cheer on in the most festive, active environment imaginable. All ages. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St, Wheaton. RunSignup. com/Race/IL/Wheaton/ReindeerRun. Craniosacral Level Three – Dec 4-5. 9am-4pm.

Prerequisite: Craniosacral Levels 1 & 2. Will integrate Levels 1 & 2 and move deeper into our understanding and experience of the various subtle rhythms expressed in the body. 12 CEs. $300. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-8641130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

Living Lightly with Wisdom Workshop – 2-5pm.

Nothing in this world is more meaningful, or spiritually helpful, than to explore Buddha’s teachings on emptiness, the true nature of reality. Let go of painful attitudes and patterns. Live lightly and adapt creatively to our world. Be of genuine benefit to others. In-person and online; recording available for 72 hrs after. $20. Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago in Wicker Park, 2010 W Pierce Ave, Chicago. 708763-0132. MeditateInChicago.org.

Hoot Hike for All – 4-5pm. Learn about owls and their unique adaptations. Get tips on what to look

and listen for while owling and then go on a guided hike in search of our feathered friends. All ages. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville.

Registration required by Dec 2: 815-886-1467 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Secrets of the Essenes – 5-7pm. Learn how the Essenes began in ancient times; how they prepared for the birth of Christ; and how they chose many potential girls to be the mother of Jesus, with Mary being selected through divine intervention.

Presentation by Ed Foote. Via Zoom. $30. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center: 847-299-6535 or HolisticCenterChicago.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 World Soil Day

Akashic Records: The Vibrational Record of Your Soul’s Journey – 2-5pm, by appt. You may have heard of the Akashic Records and have been wondering what they can tell you of your soul’s journey.

Here is your chance to ask. Janel has been working with clients in the Akashic Records for more than a decade. Bring your questions with you to your session. $30/30-min session. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines.

847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 6

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7 Free Shiatsu Intro – 10am-12:30pm. Learn the fundamental techniques and philosophies of Zen Shiatsu, and chat with current students and instructors. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

ONLINE: Go Green Highland Park Monthly Meeting – 7pm. 1st Tues. Join GGHP for our monthly meeting and share your ideas. Find out how you can get involved in event planning or help with other group activities. More info: GoGreenHP.org.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Bodhi Day (Buddhism)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 ONLINE: Our Legacy of Healing – 7-8pm. Faith in Place’s Virtual Annual Celebration and Fundraiser.

Throughout the year, our programming has explored ways to heal connections with our land, body, mind, spirit and community. We honor our interconnectedness, and our environmental work is inspired by healing. Via Zoom. Register: FaithInPlace.org.

ONLINE: Forgiveness Meditation with Angelic Healing – 7-9pm. Forgiveness is the first and the most important step into the road to happiness. Learn why it is important and how to do the meditation.

With Nina-Bastet. $35. Via Zoom. Holistic Center of Health and Happiness: 224-688-0155. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/5xpv6k97.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10 Int’l Human Rights Day

Tui Na – 10am-5pm. A hands-on technique applying a vigorous push/pull action that stimulates the muscles and joints. Works to mobilize blood, qi and lymph in the body, resolving chronic injuries and pain, and benefitting internal disorders. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

ONLINE: Joann Lysiak Gems and Jewelry Show – 6:30-8pm. See Dec 3 listing. More info: Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com. Zoom link: Tinyurl. com/3npmtj59.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 International Mountain Day

ONLINE: Clinical East/West Aromatherapy Part 3 – Dec 11-12. 9am-12pm. Prerequisite: Clinical Aromatherapy Part 1 & 2. Learn to conduct a thorough clinical assessment and the safe use of 30+ essential oils and their varied applications.

6 CEs. $150. Via Zoom. Zen Shiatsu Chicago: 847-864-1130 or ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

ONLINE: Writing About a Spiritual Journey – 9am-12pm. With Sharon Debartolo Carmack, MFA. Your spiritual journey is unique to you, yet many people can relate to your experiences and/or struggles. Find out how to write your spiritual journey in an engaging, inspirational and interesting manner.

3 CEUs. $55, $45/10 days advance. Via Zoom.

847-831-8828. InfinityFoundation.org.

May All Beings Be Happy: Fundraiser for Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago – 10-11:30am.

Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago and Animal Care League invite you to join us for a Saturday morning meditation on compassion, door prizes, holiday gift raffle and a puppy visit all while helping to support our mission of making our world a place where all beings can be happy. Space limited. $30. Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago in Oak Park, 13 Harrison St, Oak Park. 312-767-1989.

MeditateInChicago.org.

Invasion of the Nature Snatchers: A Stewardship Festival – 12-3pm. Will have demonstrations on desirable plant replacements, strategies for invasives removal, inspiration on how to engage your constituents and neighbors, furniture made from buckthorn and other fun demonstrations. Take a hike, roast some s’mores and enjoy being outside. Free. Pioneer Woods Picnic Grove, 10218 W 107th, Willow Springs. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/yhzr6x4t.

December in the Woods: Off-Trail Adventure: Nature’s Gifts – 1-2pm. Explore the woods off trail with a naturalist to discover nature’s gifts. It’s the season for giving, and we will look at what nature gives us on a winter day. Hike will be 1-2 miles on paved trails and natural surfaces across uneven terrain. All ages. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln, Channahon.

Registration required by Dec 10: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

A New Level of Acceptance & Forgiveness – 1-4pm. Discover the transformational power of forgiveness in a live class with Mark Anthony.

Acceptance and forgiveness are 2 spiritual practices that can turbo-charge your way to unshakable peace and happiness. $55, $45/10 days in advance. Infinity Foundation, 1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park.

847-831-8828. InfinityFoundation.org.

ONLINE: Chicago IANDS – 2pm. Support/study/ resource forum for near-death, out-of-body and spiritual experiences, losses. Guest speaker: Brian Clark, survivor from above impact in Tower 2 of the World Trade Center. He received guidance from the other side. He listened and survived. $20 tax-deductible donation requested (see website). For more info & to register: 847-251-5758 or ChicagoIANDS.org.

Lymphormation Class – 2pm. 2nd Sat. Join CLT Lymphatic Practitioner Sharon Vogel and staff for a complimentary community service monthly

2 Misconceptions

about Bladder Pain and

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI s) If you suffer from bladder pain or reoccurring UTIs, you’re probably doing all the things to avoid the next painful onset: drinking enough water, and consuming cranberry juice or cranberry extract. Bladder discomfort can happen when bacteria enters the urinary system by way of the urethra.

Most commonly, this bacteria comes from the bowel. But could something else be causing the issue?

Misconception 1 : Bladder irritation is always a UTI .

People experiencing bladder urgency or pain may think that they have a UTI. However, bladder irritation often occurs when the body is taking in food that cannot be digested properly.

Misconception 2 : Taking antibiotics will rid the pain or discomfort. Looking at the issue scientifically, this is

what we know: Cultivating a healthy gut balance through proper nutrition can get to the source of what is causing the irritation, and may be a helpful therapy for reoccurring or chronic issues.

Get Expert Help.

If you experience bladder irritation, you can identify what’s really going on and establish an effective therapy plan. I take a science-based approach to understanding your unique digestive needs. Developing a healthy gut balance by identifying food irritants and optimizing digestion—can have a big impact on reducing chronic symptoms and boosting overall health and vitality.

The Tummy Whisperer is here for you.

Call today for a free 15-minute consultation.

Let’s get you feeling better.

Digestive 847-207-2 Call 84 7-207-20 034 Telehealth and in- offi officce t he tu m mywh i sp e re r. c o m December 2021

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lecture about the lymphatic system, lymphedema, post-surgical swelling, new surgeries available, natural remedies, self-care, bandaging, plus receive complimentary measurements for garments and pneumatic pumps. Learn how to perform The Vogel Method of self-manual lymphatic drainage. National Lymphatic Centers, 3100 Theodore St, Ste 202, Joliet & 5002a Main St, Downers Grove. RSVP: 630-241-4100. Lymphatics.net.

ONLINE: Happy Living with Awaken Consciousness – 3-7pm. Learn why conscious living is necessary to become happy. Learn the steps that need to be taken to start living a conscious life. Be given easy techniques to take home for a conscious daily living. $55. Via Zoom. Holistic Center of Health and Happiness: 224-688-0155. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/3nj5s7jy.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 ONLINE: Meet Athena in Your Psyche – 3-6pm.

Balance, use, develop Goddess Athena’s influence in your life. During this seminar meet Goddess Athena as part of your personality, part of your subconscious, who represent different aspects of feminine energy: rich, glorious, complex, expansive and multi-faceted. $55. Via Zoom. Holistic Center of Health and Happiness: 224-688-0155. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/ye3kxxhv.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 13 Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Dec 13-17. 10am-5pm.

Learn how to give a basic 1-hr shiatsu treatment that you can share with friends and family. Course is a stand-alone offering and is also the first 30 hrs of our complete shiatsu certification programs. $450 plus textbook. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15 ONLINE: Healing Meditation with Shamanic Journey – 7-9pm. The Shamanic journey involves traveling within oneself for the purpose of consultation and therapy. This is a deep way to conduct an internal conversation and receive vital information.

After the journey, we will interpret the meaning of your trance experience. $35. Via Zoom. Holistic Center of Health and Happiness: 224-688-0155.

Registration required: Tinyurl.com/3s55a6n2.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16 Stress, Hormones & Health Seminar – 6:30pm.

Learn how hormone imbalances can affect your sleep cycles, carbohydrate cravings and fat burning.

Why “counting calories” doesn’t work for belly fat.

Learn the biggest mistake that people make with exercise that prevents weight loss. With Meena T. Malhotra, MD. Free. Heal n Cure Medical Wellness Center, 2420 Ravine Way, Ste 400, Glenview. RSVP: 847-686-4444 or HealNCure.com/seminar.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17 Family Owl Prowl – 6-7:30pm. Be led on a walk throughout the Nature Center’s trails to search for the illusive owl. All ages. Free. North Park Village Nature Center Park, 5801 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago.

Register: ChicagoParkDistrict.com.

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Chicago

NAChicago.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26

Reiki Play Day – 9-11am. All members of the reiki community are welcome, whatever your reiki level or lineage. Share in the expansiveness that group meditation brings as we lift our energies together. Let’s revel in the energy and support of our community.

Class limit 6 people; mask required. $20 suggested donation. Calandra Center for Health and Wellness, 47 W Polk St, Ste M-5, Chicago. Registration required: 312-796-3965 or CalandraAcupuncture.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 27

Full Moon –Cold Moon, Long Moon Night Int’l Migrants’ Day

ONLINE: Guided Meditation & Activation – 2-3pm. With Intuitive Energy Specialist, Joann Lysiak. In this guided session, you will activate and balance your energy centers/chakras to connect to the Divine being you are. Will end with a visualization of your desires and dreams to create your new reality.

To register: Joann@EmpowerCoachingNetwork.com or EmpowerCoachingNetwork.lpages.co/meditation.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 Fitmas Festivus Holiday Workout – 9:30-10:30am.

Let’s celebrate making it to this point with everything we’ve gone through this year and get fit with fitmas.

Will do a little special white elephant workout to make things interesting for members and nonmembers. $20.60. Get Fit EGV, 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 206, Elk Grove Village. Register: GetFitEGV.com.

Healing Sunday with New Year Magic for Women – 12-8pm. Prepare yourself for the holidays and manifest your desires for 2022 with healing magical rituals.

Includes meditation and shamanic Journey healing session and more. Call to get $20 coupon before registration and mention Natural Awakenings. $117.

Holistic Center of Health and Happiness: 224-6880155. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/bhzbwzk.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 20

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21 Winter Solstice Yule (Wiccan)

Winter Solstice Shamanic Ceremony – 7-9pm.

The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year and marks the start of our annual journey toward longer days. It’s a time to celebrate and look forward to the return of more light. In this ceremony we will celebrate the eternal Light which we are. With Melissa Gama. Onsite & online via Zoom. $35. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22 VIRTUAL: Reiki Relaxation Hour – 7-8pm. Shake off the stress of the day in a natural and healthy way with reiki. Relax even deeper with a guided reiki meditation (which you can use at home to bring peace to your daily life). Experience distance reiki along with the meditation. A great opportunity to check out what a reiki distance session is like. Time afterwards for sharing and Q&A. Free. Via Zoom.

CalandraAcupuncture.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Christmas (Christianity)

Kwanza Boxing Day

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1 ONLINE: Life Mission Exploration – 1-2:30pm.

Uncover clues & insights so you can move forward with more purpose and meaning. Why am I here?

What am I here to do? Who am I here to become?

Each session is custom created for, and with, those in attendance. Donation. More info & registration, Sarah Karnes: 262-745-8362 or SarahDKarnes.com.

MONDAY, JANUARY 3 Burn Challenge – Take old habits and make new ones to level up our lives for better health. Register

by Dec 10 to build momentum for the start date of Jan 3. Participants will hold each other accountable by checking in with active calories, total calories and steps for the day in the Facebook group, as well as log into a Google sheet, and the person with the most entries across the 3 categories wins a prize. Get Fit EGV, 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 206, Elk Grove Village.

Register: Tinyurl.com/BurnChallenge.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8

SAVE THE DATE

Virtual Midwest Women’s Herbal Wellness Series Begins – Jan 8-Apr 2, every other Sat workshops. In Our Own Hands: Women’s Wellness Series. Herbal elders from around the world will share their knowledge and Wise Women wisdom. For registration & more info: MidwestWomensHerbal.com/inourownhands-2022.

SAVE THE DATE Eagle Watch program – 11am-3pm. With the Forest Preserve District of Will County. Includes refreshing, fact-filled winter hikes to search for these majestic birds. Short Talon Talks filled with eagle tidbits and live birds of prey programs.

Includes a fire outside and Lil’ Deb’s Mobile Eats onsite with hot beverages and food for sale.

Admission free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon.

ReconnectWithNature.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12

SAVE THE DATE Neuroplasticity Made Simple – 9am-12pm.

Learn a practical technique that leverages your brain’s natural adaptability. Learn about how your own mind works and what you can do to improve your thoughts, in a fun playful way. $55, $45/10 days advance. Infinity Foundation, 1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park. 847-831-8828.

InfinityFoundation.org.

ongoing events To ensure we keep our community calendar current, ongoing events must be resubmitted each month.

DEADLINE: All listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Calendar events must be submitted online at NAChicago.com/Calendar.

Check Online:

Check the NA Online Calendar and Directory for many updates and new online events and workshops.

MONTHLY SPECIAL OFFERS Dulce Kessler Massage Special – Thru Dec. $30 off or buy a package and save more. Ducat Chiropractic & Sports Medicine, 148 S Bloomingdale Rd, Ste 107C, Bloomingdale. 224-653-8094.

KesslerMassage.com.

Half-Off Healing Services by Heather Faun – Thru Dec 31. Receive 50% price cut on intuitive readings, medium work, mentoring and channeling services. Remote energy healing and house calls available. Discount for energy healing for families receiving multiple sessions and for those doing a monthly rate for weekly sessions. 312-502-1539.

HeatherFaun.com.

Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum – Thru Jan 2. Explore 50 acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees during this one-of-a-kind spectacle of color, light and sound. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Tickets: MortonArb.org.

ONLINE: Christian Science Lectures – All Christian Science lectures have moved online.

Every day you’ll find several events happening live as well pre-recorded presentations you can watch anytime. Cultivate your spiritual practice and get ideas and inspiration to stay calm, safe and healthy.

CSMetroChicago.org.

Holiday Gardening Pop-Up – Thru Dec 21.

10am-6pm, Wed-Sun. With City Grange. They hope the concept store will garner neighborhood support and allow City Grange to open a full-time plant shop in March 2022 after repairs are made to the interior of the building. Former Granville Pictures storefront, 6200 Broadway, Edgewater.

CityGrange.com.

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo – 3-9pm.

Various dates thru Dec 31. Zoogoers can stroll along the walkways, lit with more than one million twinkling LED lights. Reservation times available in 20-min increments. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St, Brookfield. 312-553-2000. czs.org/HolidayMagic.

Lincoln Park ZooLights – Thru Jan 2. 4-10pm.

The zoo is illuminated with dazzling LED lights, dynamic displays and festive activities. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N Cannon Dr, Chicago. LPZoo.org.

Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape – Thru Jan 2. 4:30pm. Enjoy exciting new installations and features that shine with all colors imaginable along the 1.25-mi path. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe. ChicagoBotanic.org.

Illuminated Winter Walking Trails – Thru Mar 13. 6:30am-9pm. Guided by small solar-powered lights, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can enjoy evenings along the 1.3-mi fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville and a 1.65-mi hilly section of the Millennium Trail adjacent to the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda. View maps: Tinyurl.com/OldSchoolSolarTrail & Tinyurl.com/LakewoodSolarTrail.

SUNDAY Ruck the Work Week – 8am. Rucking effectively allows you to combine aerobic training and strength training while slicing your workout to a fraction of the time. With Get Fit EGV. Free. Busse Forest South Grove 17, Elk Grove Village. Must register by 7pm the night before: Linktr.ee/getfitegv_coachro.

ONLINE: The Mike Nowak Show Radio Program – 9-11am. Live weekly online local talk show focused on gardening and the environment, with lots of humor to wake us up. Author and master gardener Mike Nowak and cohost Peggy Malecki feature a variety of guests and weather/climate scientist Rick DiMaio in a live show on Facebook @The Mike Nowak Show, YouTube and streaming live at MikeNowak.net. Also available in podcast on MikeNowak.net, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher and podcast apps. Free. MikeNowak.net.

ONLINE: Yoga Basics with Jenny – 11am.

Also held 9:30am, Wed & Fri. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500.

HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com.

TUESDAY ONLINE: Yoga with Lisa – 10am. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500.

HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com.

ONLINE: Time to Dance: Ballet – 1:30pm. Also 10:30am, Sun & 5:30pm, Thurs. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. Via Zoom. To register: CBG-Institute.org.

Green Drinks Libertyville – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues.

Check our Facebook page for updates. Facebook. com/greendrinkslibertyville.

ONLINE: Hacking Your Health Meetup – 6:308pm. 3rd Tues. With Tiffany Hinton. Let’s get together to expand our knowledge of living a healthy life, using integrative wellness. Features an expert speaker on topics current to our health landscape.

We can share recipes, have events at local health restaurants and learn more to raise healthier children.

Free. Purple Sprout Cafe and Juice Bar: Meetup. com/Hacking-Your-Health-Meetup.

ONLINE: Guided Meditation for Inner Balance & Quieting the Mind – 6:50-8:10pm. 3rd Tue. With Ellen Radha Katz. Donation. Via Zoom. Register: Meetup.com/Inner-Balance-Meditation.

ONLINE: Let’s Talk Hemp Health – 7pm. A short presentation by hemp advocates and educators on the basics of CBD oil. Learn the benefits and science of how and why cannabis works in the body. Learn exactly what CBD and other cannabinoids are and what function they play in the body. Different guests each week. Free. On Zoom. Details: 630-309-3409 or HempHealthTalks.com.

Logan Square Indoor Farmers’ Market – Thru Mar 27. 9am-3pm. Open snow, sleet or shine.

Impact Images Studio, 2537 N Pulaski, Chicago.

LoganSquareFarmersMarket.org.

ONLINE: Time to Dance: Ballet – 10:30am. Also 1:30pm, Tues & 5:30pm, Thurs. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. Via Zoom. To register: CBG-Institute.org.

MONDAY Sentinel Watch Podcast – 7am. Weekly audio podcasts filled with thought-provoking ideas posted each Mon. Contributors tackle topics relevant to daily life and inspiring prayers for the world. New programs are posted every Mon and available 24/7 throughout the week. Tune in any time. CSMetroChicago.org.

Shiatsu Student Clinic – 7 & 8pm. Receive a 45-min session from an advanced Zen Shiatsu student. Sessions are performed in a group setting with instructor observation. $35/45-min or $90/3 treatments. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 825A Chicago Ave, Evanston. Availability limited; for appts: 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

WEDNESDAY ONLINE: Body & Brain Tai Chi Class – 7:308:30am; 10-11am; 6-7pm. Additional classes held daily; see website for times. After a short set of warm up exercises, get into meridian stretching (to improve circulation, strength and flexibility, and relax the mind) and then go into Body & Brain-style tai chi called DahnMuDo. We stream all classes live on Zoom. Info & to register: 847-362-2724, Libertyville@BodyNBrain.com, BodyNBrain.com/ libertyville.

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CLASSIFIEDS AKASHIC CONSULTATION AKASHIC RECORD READING – Open the record of your soul’s journey to find information to support you in your life right now, heal your past and help you into your future. Heal. Grow. Investigate. Find direction. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034.

AstrologicalDetails.com.

ASTROLOGY

Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. Check website for updates. GreenDrinks.org/ IL/Crystal Lake.

ONLINE: Prayer Meeting – 6-7pm. Informal weekly gatherings with inspirational readings, song, prayer and time to share healings and inspiration.

Meetings being held remotely during COVID-19.

More than a dozen different online groups hold midweek online meetings; times vary, but all groups meet on Wed evenings. Free. Log-on info & times: CSMetroChicago.org.

ASTROLOGY – Understand yourself, your motivations, your feelings. Recognize your talents, strengths, successes. Overcome difficulties and confusion. Astrology can help pull it all together. Relationships. Career. Plan the future.

Serious astrology for serious seekers. Private, personal consultations. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034.

AstrologicalDetails.com.

THURSDAY

BOOKS

ONLINE: Time to Dance: Modern – 1:30pm.

Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. Via Zoom. To register: CBG-Institute.org.

THE TRUE SCHOOL IS LIFE – Books for Conscious Living such as: Recognize and Heal Yourself through the Power of the Spirit; Living and Dying to Keep on Living; Cause and Development of All Illness; The Life I Chose Myself and much more. 20% off with coupon code: OFF20.

844-576-0937. Gabriele-Publishing-House.com.

ONLINE: Time to Dance: Fitness – 9:30am.

Emphasizes low-impact, high-intensity, cardio dance and fitness routines accompanied by music.

Alternate dance with resistance routines to build and maintain muscle and bone density. Via Zoom.

To register: CBG-Institute.org.

ONLINE: Time to Dance: Ballet – 5:30pm. Also 10:30am, Sun & 1:30pm, Tues. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. Via Zoom. To register: CBG-Institute.org.

Mindfulness & Wellness: Managing Stress, Creating Health, Encouraging Balance – 1:152:30pm. With Archana Lal-Tabak, MD, and Jim Lal-Tabak. Learn about mind-body connection and variety of mindfulness exercises. Experience natural stress reduction strategies and tools. Each class is self-contained, and a new wellness-educational topic and mindfulness technique presented every week. Series of 4 classes or individual class.

Scholarships and work study available. Drop-ins welcome. Heart of Transformation Wellness Institute, 1618 Orrington Ave, Ste 206, Evanston. Details: BodyMindMedicine.com.

SATURDAY Advanced Allergy Therapeutic Treatment – 9am1pm. Offering holistic, non-invasive, drug-free treatments to calm the sympathetic nervous system.

Taking all precautions to protect from COVID-19.

For an appt: 847-392-7901, MWAllergyRelief@ gmail.com or MidwestAllergyRelief.com.

61st Street Indoor Farmers’ Market – Dec 4, 11, 18. 9am-12pm. 61st & Dorchester, Chicago.

ExperimentalStation.org/market.

ONLINE: Body & Brain Basic Yoga Class – 9:3010:30am & 2-3pm. After a short set of warm up exercises, get into meridian stretching, followed by core strengthening and breathing postures to accumulate energy. Then be guided in the practice of energy meditation. $20/class. Body & Brain Yoga and Tai Chi, 860 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville.

847-362-2724. BodyNBrain.com/libertyville.

HELP WANTED

ONLINE: Healy Introduction – 6:30pm. Have you heard of frequency medicine? Learn about a new personal device called Healy. A short presentation on what the frequency medicine is and how to purchase one. This is the next level in well-being and balance. RSVP: 630-309-3409. Meeting ID: 630-309-3409. Zoom.US.

YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

FRIDAY

Palatine Winter Farmers’ Market – Nov -Apr. 10am-12pm. 1st & 3rd Sat. Not held Jan 1. Palatine Train Station, 137 W Wood St, Palatine.

PalatineSisterCities.org/winter-farmers-market.

Achieving Solutions for Health and Happiness – In-person sessions in a healthy and safe environment achieving root solutions for health, happiness and action steps on your life projects. With Susan Curry, of InteriorWerx. Complimentary 15-min phone consultation, use promo code MYFIRSTSESSION. 1420 Renaissance Dr, Ste 411, Park Ridge. 312-4797893. Susan@InteriorWerx.us. InteriorWerx.us.

Shamanic Journey Circle – 6-8pm. 2nd Sat. With Mouse Savaiano. All levels of shamanic journey work welcome. During our time together I will hold space for you while drumming and you will go on your shamanic journey to meet your helping spirits. $10 love offering. Mouse Savaiano Intuitive Healer, 4137 N Barlett, Shorewood, WI. Registration required: 312-799-9414. MouseIntuitivehHealer.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

LECTURE LYMPHORMATION LECTURE – Dec 11, 2pm.

2nd Sat. Join CLT Lymphatic Practitioner Sharon Vogel and staff for a complimentary community service monthly lecture about the lymphatic system, lymphedema, post-surgical swelling, new surgeries available, natural remedies, self-care, bandaging, plus receive complimentary measurements for garments and pneumatic pumps. Learn how to perform The Vogel Method of self-manual lymphatic drainage. National Lymphatic Centers, 3100 Theodore St, Ste 202, Joliet & 5002a Main St, Downers Grove.

RSVP: 630-241-4100. Lymphatics.net.

AUTUMN IS A GREAT TIME TO

If you're considering a new CAREER OPPORTUNITY

PRODUCTS ORGANIC PLANT-BASED SUPPLEMENTS – Get Greens powder, oil blends, herbal teas, electrolytes, colon cleansers & more. See Special Offer for samples. 954-459-1134. TerraLifeStore.com.

SERVICES NEUROPLASTICIAN – Are you struggling with self-doubt, limiting beliefs, painful memories or anxieties? We can help using your brain’s natural processing dynamics. Schedule a session: BeliefRedesign.com.

CHICAGO

Change your job, Change your life!

is looking for PRINT & DIGITAL MEDIA SALES PEOPLE Commission-based position with GREAT EARNING POTENTIAL for the right person!

Email Your Resumé to: Info@NAChicago.com

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NAChicago.com

community resource guide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community.

ACUPUNCTURE AND TRADITIONAL ORIENTAL MEDICINE CALANDRA CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT South Loop: 312-796-3965 Schaumburg: 312-515-9492 Facebook @CalandraAcuChi CalandraAcupuncture.com We believe that when someone has the tools to help themselves that the possibilities are endless. Offering acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal medicine, NAET allergy elimination, reiki, Access Consciousness, and a variety of wellness educational classes. Teri specializes in gynecological disorders, infertility, menopausal syndrome, musculoskeletal dysfunctions, allergies, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, thyroid disorders.

LANA MOSHKOVICH, LAC, ND, MSOM Nirvana Naturopathics 707 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 100, Deerfield 60015 847-715-9044 NirvanaNaturopathics.com

We use acupuncture to help you get immediate relief from acute or chronic pain. Combining Western and Chinese Medicine, we can treat and resolve insomnia, anxiety and women’s health issues, plus chronic conditions. Certified NAET. Preferred MeiZen Provider. Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Major insurances accepted.

Schedule your initial appointment on Nirvana Naturopathics.com. Get a healthier and alternative approach to your chronic health conditions.

ALLERGIES MIDWEST ALLERGY RELIEF CENTER 3365 N Arlington Hts Rd, Ste D, Arlington Hts 60004 847-392-7901 MidwestAllergyRelief.com

Dr. Amanda Thiry, DC, BSN, uses Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT), a non-invasive alternative technology that’s effective and safe for all ages, to identify and treat specific allergen elements that affect your quality of life. Discover how you can eat foods, be near pets and use products again that you now avoid, and experience a new lease on life.

BODYWORK NATIONAL LYMPHATIC CENTERS

Sharon M Vogel, LMT, CLT, BCTMB, MFR 5002a Main St, Downers Grove 3100 Theodore St, Ste 202, Joliet 630-241-4100 • Lymphatics.net Sharon Vogel is referred to by Mayo Clinic practitioners, national surgeons and physicians. She offers 46 years hands-on experience, 29 years as a licensed practitioner, and is Nationally Board Certified, specializing in oncology massage, lymph drainage MLD and myofascial release JFB MFR, all to help assist clients in regaining health. Free consult with RSVP.

ROTH STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION

Diane Roth, BCSI Highland Park, 60035 847-533-3213 • RothSI.com Structural Integration (SI) realigns, rebalances and re-educates the body through manual therapy and movement education. Chronic pain, bad posture, tired and achy bodies are signs that the body is out of balance. SI benefits include decreased pain, injury rehabilitation, improved posture, ease in movement, and increased flexibility and stamina.

ZEN SHIATSU CHICAGO 825 Chicago Ave, Evanston 60202 847-864-1130 ZenShiatsuChicago.org

You’ll feel the stress melt away like the snow in spring through our relaxation-focused shiatsu massage practice, which offers the same energizing benefits as acupuncture combined with the restorative power of yoga poses. Dress in cozy threads, shiatsu is performed on fully clothed clients. Professional and student therapists available.

See ad on back cover.

CLICK ON nachicago.com

for the latest updates in health & wellness

CBD/HEMP OIL NATURAL REMEDEE HEALTH SOLUTIONS Dee Bayro, CHHC NaturalRemedee.com HempHealthTalks.com

Your hemp health coach. Too many people are living with daily pain and chronic conditions, without much support. Many have not heard or know how cannabis works in the body, and that it is essential to maintain homeostasis (balance of all the body systems) or that it is involved in a number of physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, memory and appetite, and more. As your health advisor, I will help guide you and find answers. We get to the root cause and see if cannabinoid therapy is right for you. Over thousands of studies support the therapeutic benefits for over 250 health conditions. Visit our website or attend an online free informational Zoom (register on website) to learn more.

COACHING & COUNSELING KARYN PETTIGREW

Beyond Blind Spots 608-618-0655 Free Gift: BeyondBlindSpots.com/free-gift Beyond Blind Spots offers soulbased business design. Guiding entrepreneurs to their ideal brand positioning, audience and resulting profitability. See ad on page 19.

COACHING & COUNSELING SUSAN CURRY

InteriorWerx 312-479-7893 Info@InteriorWerx.us InteriorWerx.us Feeling anxious or scared? Are you seeking solutions to regain emotional balance and clarity? Susan Curry of InteriorWerx can assist, using her intuitive energy coaching skills. 15-min complimentary phone consult available using promo MYFIRSTSESSION.

change

can do you good Join the Natural Awakenings Franchise Family

December 2021

43

LYNDA HOPE

847-209-1366 Lynda@LyndaHope.com Value-U.com Value yourself and become your greatest validator. The Value-U platform provides a 21-day meditation and sacred chanting that will gently guide you into your truth, that you are already love and peace. Be the consciousness and free yourself from your egoic mind that keeps you trapped in habitual patterning, lifetime after lifetime. Hope has self-actualized through the non-dualistic ancient teachings and provides counseling both on a 3-D level and on an awakened higher mind level. Individual and group counseling available.

FLOAT THERAPY FLOTSTONE

57 E Scranton Ave, Lake Bluff 60044 847-482-1700 Flotstone.com Floatation therapy is quickly being recognized as a very safe and effective way to shift into the parasympathetic state of total relaxation. Floating cradles you in its graceful healing waters optimizing your body’s ability to do what it does best, heal! Float effortlessly in over 1,250 lbs of Epsom salt.

HERBAL DETOX AND MEDICINE JANE HURST, MASTER HERBALIST

Organic or Wildcrafted Herbs Woodridge, IL 630-710-4404 Sales@JanesHerbs.com • JanesHerbs.com Jane Hurst is a Master Herbalist with an International Honors Degree specializing in herbal detoxification programs, nutritional counseling, juice fasting and herbal in-person classes.

Her herbal capsule formulas are available online or for local pickup.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE DANCE FOR HEALTH TIME TO DANCE WITH CBG INSTITUTE FOR DANCE & HEALTH North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park 60035 DanceForJoy16@gmail.com CBG-Institute.org

Discover the healing art of dance through ballet, modern and tap for adults 50+.

Dance is proven to have both physical and psychological benefits. Taught by dancer teachers Lisa Gold, Lynne Chervony Belsky, MD, and Lorraine Chase. See ad on page 19.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH SPECIALIST RENEÉ S. BARASCH, LDHS Telehealth and In-Office 847-207-2034 DigestiveHealthSolutions.com

Digestive problems? Acid Reflux/ GERD, IBS, Crohn’s, colitis? Let us help you naturally achieve nutritional balance, feel better and enhance the quality of your life. Improve digestion while reducing discomfort and bloating so you can eat the foods you love again.

Certified digestive health specialist/enzyme therapist. See ads on pages 7 and 39.

ENERGY GEMSTONES & JEWELRY JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST

Joann Lysiak Gems 847-596-0274 Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com JoannLysiakGems.com

Gemstones have energy properties that you can benefit from when wearing them or displaying them. Using the energy properties, you can attract love, abundance or increase your intuition and Spiritual Consciousness or strengthen your energy. View my collection with purpose or let me intuitively find the perfect gemstone for you.

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HEAL N CURE MEDICAL WELLNESS

Meena Malhotra, MD, ABIM, ABOM 2420 Ravine Way, Ste 400, Glenview 60025 847-686-4444 • HealNCure.com Specializing in medical wellness, weight loss, hormone balancing, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and anti-aging using integrative and functional medicine. We find and resolve the root cause of medical conditions and achieve outstanding, lasting results for our patients, many of which had almost given up on wellness goals. Free educational seminars. PPO insurance and Medicare accepted for covered services.

See ad on page 3.

PETER KOZLOWSKI, MD

92 Turner Ave, Elk Grove Village 60007 847-626-5758 Doc-Koz.com As a Functional Medicine MD, Dr. Kozlowski, author of Unfunc Your Gut, uses a broad array of tools to find the source of the body’s dysfunction. Working together with each patient, he co-creates a unique, individualized care plan. Services are both online and in-person via Illinois and Montana-based offices. He has trained with Dr. Mark Hyman, Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. Susan Blum.

GYMS, FITNESS & ONLINE WORKOUTS

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY DR. ALLA AVER, DDS

2400 Ravine Way, Suite 400, Glenview 60025 847-998-5100 GlenviewSmiles.com Our office uses whole-body, preventive dental care. We utilize non-fluoridated ozonated water, herbal periodontal treatments, and gluten-free herbal paste. We offer: safe amalgam removal; BPA-free fillings and sealants; non-metal crowns; sleep apnea and TMJ appliances; ozone therapy; microscopic plaque analysis; material reactivity testing kits; and non-acrylic night guards, partials.

K. BOEHM, DDS, & ASSOCIATES

1585 N Barrington Rd, Ste 106, Hoffman Estates 60069 847-884-1220 1440 Maple Ave, Ste 2A Lisle 60532 630-810-1280 • KBoehmDDS.com

Offering state-of-the-art holistic dental care in a relaxed environment, Dr. Boehm and his staff are ready to meet all your dental needs in either of his two locations. Bio-compatible materials and an extensive knowledge of the correlation between oral and overall health are his specialties. Services include safe mercury removal, electrodermal screening for materials compatibility and tooth viability, crowns, bridges, dentures, zirconia implants, homeopathy, cranial osteopathy, orthodontics, ozone therapy, CT/3D imaging, and laser treatment for both gum disease and decay.

GET FIT EGV

Rowena Dziubla, Owner 773-819-7459 • CoachRo@GetFitEGV.com Facebook | Instagram RX your workout at GET FIT EGV located at 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 206 in Elk Grove Village. Semi-private classes available 7 days a week: barbell/Olympic training, HIIT, bootcamp and more. We also offer ONLINE virtual coaching options for home workouts; see website for more info.

WRIGLEYVILLE DENTAL

Dr. Bernice Teplitsky, DDS, PC 3256 N Ashland, Chicago 60657 773-975-6666 WrigleyvilleDental.com In addition to state-of-the-art technology and methods offered by most holistic dentists (microscopes, ozone therapy, etc.), we treat you as a partner. We thoroughly explain your unique situation, provide treatment options and keep you comfortable with Netflix, music and paraffin wax treatments. Now offering reiki treatments. Located off the Brown line. Free garage parking.

HOLISTIC HEALTH PRACTITIONER BIO-ENERGY CENTER

Kankakee Natural Foods BioEnergy Center 815-933-6236 KankakeeNaturalFoods.com Our BioEnergy Center brings together state-ofthe-art machines in one location for an integrative wellness experience. Our approach to healing meets each client’s unique needs through personalized testing and therapies. Come as you are, no appointment needed.

Kankakee Natural Foods Wellness under One Roof.

WHOLE LIFE SPINE & SOFT TISSUE Christopher Codina, DC 33 W Higgins Rd, Ste 735 South Barrington 60010 WholeLifeChiroHE.com

Constantly foam rolling or taking meds to get through the day, just for it to come back?

Learn how something that is easily treated and commonly found in the body may be the reason for your pain. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more. Conveniently located and insurance accepted.

HOLISTIC SKINCARE HOLISTIC SKIN EXPERT: PAULINA IANNOTTA

24W788 75th St, Naperville 60565 (within Estuary Center for Living and Healing Arts) 708-769-5351 HolisticSkinExpert.com Paulina has been a holistic-licensed esthetician since 2010. She believes in balance and treats the body as a whole, and that the skin should be nourished and nurtured with love and not abused with harsh chemicals and treatments. Every treatment is about 2 hours and it’s customized to meet the needs of every individual.

INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION COACH CRISTINA MADINE

Hormone | Fertility Specialist 312-574-0046 Info@TheBalancedBella.com TheBalancedBella.com Using my Balanced Bella Method, a simplified, integrative nutrition approach that focuses on root cause solutions to support women who want to ditch birth control, get pregnant, recover postpartum and feel amazing in their skin.

Stop suffering from hormone imbalance and live your best life. My programs get results on any budget. Begin your journey by getting your individualized protocol. See ad on page 15.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE thriveMD – OPTIMAL HEALTH

Dr. Greg Seaman 1355 Remington Rd, Ste I, Schaumburg IL 60173 312-600-5070 Info@thriveMD.org

Using IV therapies, PRP, weight management and other natural programs, we help conditions like fatigue, brain fog, hormone imbalance, pain, injury, weight gain, decreased performance, tickborne disease and more. After an initial consultation, we design your custom program to obtain true optimal health, which includes living a healthy lifestyle and being committed to yourself. See ad on page 5.

INTEGRATIVE PSYCHOTHERAPY ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT

Clinical Director, Inner Balance Northbrook, Chicago, Palm Springs 847-224-0244 EllenKatz.net Ellen’s 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist integrates a conscious approach to healing old patterns through a mix of trauma and mindfulness-based psychotherapies, HMR, Lifeline, The Work (Byron Katie), energy medicine and somatic awareness. Join Meetup.com “Inner Balance Meditation” for updates on her events, and visit her at EllenKatz.net.

INTUITIVE CONSULTATION

LIFELONG LEARNING & PERSONAL GROWTH CHRISTIAN SCIENCE IN METRO CHICAGO CSMetroChicago.org

ad on page 35.

Resources for your spiritual journey … events, weekly online podcasts, community worship services, Christian Science Reading Rooms. Explore our website and connect with us at more than 24 locations around Chicago. See

THE EDGAR CAYCE HOLISTIC CENTER AND BOOKSTORE

At Unity Northwest Church 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines 60016 847-299-6535 • AREChicagoCenter@gmail.com Full-service bookstore, Cayce remedies, spiritual growth study groups, monthly programs, workshops and holistic fairs, intuitive skills development training, knowledgeable seekers, intuitives, healers and more. Call for hours. See ad on page 16.

INFINITY FOUNDATION

1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park 60035 847-831-8828 • InfinityFoundation.org Many courses now live (masks required) and on Zoom, some are recorded to watch later. CEUs available. Meditate-a-Thon, December 4, live.

Writing About a Spiritual Memoir, December 11.

Call for free course guide.

HEATHER FAUN

Intuitive, Medium & Healer 312-502-1539 Heather@HeatherFaunBasl.com HeatherFaunBasl.com Heather does readings, healings and guided meditation to help you find clarity, direction and peace. She brings a higher perspective and insight that will help you on a soul level. With 18 years of experience as an intuitive and medium she uses her gift to bring awareness to the area you need, from healing the body to connecting with a loved one or simply just assisting you in getting your own answers.

MICHELE HEATHER

847-509-8289 MicheleHeather1@yahoo.com Get clarity, direction and empowerment as we release old patterns and blockages that keep you feeling stuck in life. Using Soul Memory Discovery, Michele helps you work with your angels and guides to practice new inner processes and expand into your highest good and true self. Michele is also intuitive and a Reiki Master Teacher.

MASSAGE THERAPY DULCE KESSLER

Located at Ducat Chiropractic & Sports Medicine 148 S Bloomingdale Rd, Ste 107C, Bloomingdale 60108 224-653-8094 • KesslerMassage.com

ing a package

Dulce Kessler is now offering massage therapy services at Ducat Chiropractic and Sports Medicine. December specials: Save $30 on massage therapy services; save more when buy-

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for the latest updates in health & wellness December 2021

45

MEDITATION CENTER

coming in january

KADAMPA MEDITATION CENTER CHICAGO

13 Harrison St, Oak Park 60304 2010 W Pierce Ave, Chicago 60622 708-763-0132 • MeditateInChicago.org

Health & Wellness Issue

Meditation and modern Buddhism. Everyone welcome. We offer an array of drop-in classes, weekend events, and retreats open to everyone and suitable for all levels of experience. A nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, we’re dedicated to sharing the practical wisdom of Buddha’s teachings with Chicagoland through meditation and mindfulness practices.

MINDSET HEALTH BELIEF REDESIGN: REDECORATE YOUR MIND! Rebecca J. Robbins, PhD 862-254-3637 Info@BeliefRedesign.com BeliefRedesign.com

Are you struggling with self-doubt, limiting beliefs, painful memories, anxieties or unwanted behaviors? We can help. These novel techniques leverage your mind’s natural ability to update itself. Find out what your brain can do for you! Rebecca has worked with 100s of clients all over the world. 10% off code: BRNAC10.

NATUROPATHIC CONSULTATION

NUTRITIONAL IV THERAPY thriveMD

1355 Remington Rd, Ste I Schaumburg IL 60173 312-600-5070 • thriveMD.com Thrive MD offers a way to deliver vital fluids, vitamins, electrolytes and nutrients directly into the bloodstream which can restore hydration, support the immune system and aid in faster recovery. Offerings include nutritional immune support, weight loss, vitality and stress relief.

See ad on page 5.

THERMOGRAPHY, THERMOMETRY AND ULTRASOUND NORTHWEST MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY & MORE

11+ Locations in Chicago area 224-600-3216 Facebook: @northwesthealingcenter NorthwestHealingCenter.com Now offering Thermography and Ultrasound… Erica Cody is a certified thermographer and works with a team of ultrasound technicians and doctors together focusing on women and men’s health. Our scans help to indicate issues throughout the body, including head, breast, abdominal and pelvis. Women’s Health Check half-body scans can also detect dysfunction and provide indications for further investigation. Multiple locations: Lake Forest, Highland Park, Evanston, Naperville, Arlington Heights and more. See ad on page 19.

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Chicago

NAChicago.com

VEGAN MARKET & RESTAURANT BE MARKET

Cafe and Bar serving Plant-based (v) • FRESH • ORGANIC Market 24 E Scranton, Lake Bluff 60044 224-436-8330 BeMarketLB.com BeMarket offers gourmet comfort foods that promote wellness and a healthy lifestyle, including vegetable juice and detox programs along with wild raw superfoods and herbs. In addition to the packaged foods and groceries, there is a dine-in menu from the basement kitchen. Enjoy Craft beer and wine.

December, being the last month of the year, cannot help but make us think of what is to come. ~Fennel Hudson

LOVE THIS FIND TRUE

HIS T E V O L E FIND TRU These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Try for FREE at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

CELEBRATING 27 years in THE business of

December 2021

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NEW: Full-Time training and federal financial aid available! Complete your shiatsu studies in 9 months.

Rooted in universal principles of change and balance, the study of Zen Shiatsu enriches your life while you learn to help others.

Learn to relieve aches and pains through acupressure and assisted stretching while also listening to the deeper messages our bodies have to tell us. Try an entry-level class and decide if our program is the one you’ve been looking for.

Beginning Zen Shiatsu As Part of the Full-Time Program Jan 11-Nov 10, Tue/Wed/Thu 9am-4:30pm Or 5 Day Intensive December 13-17, Mon-Fri 10am-5m Or 10 Week Sessions Jan 11-Mar 16, Tue 10am-1pm OR Wed 7-10pm or try one of our

Free Introductory Workshops December 7, Tuesday, 10am-12:30pm January 5, Wednesday, 7:00-9:30pm https://zenshiatsuchicago.org/free_massage_workshop/

E-mail info@zenshiatsuchicago.org or call 847-864-1130 to sign up today!

www.zenshiatsuchicago.org CEs Available

Approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education

818 Lake Street, Evanston, IL