February 2025 Natural Awakenings Chicago Magazine

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CHICAGO EDITION Publisher Peggy Malecki Sales & Marketing Dana Boulanger Heidi Hetzel Peggy Malecki Operations Jhona Cordero Editors/Proofing Theresa Archer Sara Gurgen Randy Kambic Writers Sheryl DeVore Carrie Jackson Sheila Julson Megy Karydes Design & Production Courtney Ayers Suzzanne Siegel

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CEO Kimberly B. Whittle CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180 Customer Service Dani Bucad

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com Cover image by adiar for Adobe Stock © 2025 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.

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Publisher’s Letter

W

e’ve been treated to many beautiful sunsets this month as the brightness of cold and crisp yet gloriously sunny days fades into stunning purples and pinks, eventually giving way to the lingering pastels of a Midwest winter sky. While I don’t wish for the days to rush by any faster than they already seem to, I’m eagerly anticipating the return of post-5 p.m. sunsets and the lead-in to spring. As I write this month’s notes with a sunset in the distance outside my window, two cardinals are visiting the bird feeder, grabbing a few seeds before seeking their evening shelter.

Peggy Malecki

February often seems to be represented by the color red— whether in the brilliant feathers of the cardinal, the bold hues of Valentine hearts and flowers or the many reminders of Heart Month. In contrast to the winter-brown of a male goldfinch, male cardinals keep their red color year-round (females maintain a muted pinkish-brown).

And while winter bird songs are rare, the cardinal’s sharp “chip chip” calls begin to shift by mid-February as they establish spring territories. At t his time each year, I await that first morning when I’ll hear a cardinal’s “birdie-birdie-birdie” song in the yard, announcing the gradual transition to spring.

It’s Heart Month, and this issue is devoted to ways of cultivating a happy heart. In our main feature, “The Thriving Heart: Integrative Approaches to Cardiology,” writer Carrie Jackson highlights some of the latest wellness strategies for heart health, including Dr. Jack Wolfson’s 100-year heart method. Along with diet, Wolfson emphasizes “thrival” lifestyle choices such as spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, enjoying activities we love, prioritizing high-quality sleep and nurturing a positive mindset. These practices can be simple yet profound ways to help foster a long life and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment.

As we nurture a healthy heart, February also invites us to embrace the great outdoors. This month is a wonderful time to explore winter birdwatching. In our Natural Chicago section, Sheryl DeVore shares tips on gull-watching along Chicago’s lakefront and nearby areas, where both common and rare winter-visiting species may appear. If you’re also seeking some indoor nature experiences, there are plenty of local seed swaps, gardening events and the Wild Things 2025 Conference to enjoy.

And of course, February wouldn’t be complete without chocolate. Marlaina Donato explores the latest research on this ancient treat’s wellness benefits and shares recipes that are both delicious and nourishing. Be sure to check out our Conscious Eating section for cozy, warming dishes like Navy Bean Tuscan Kale Soup by Mindy Pelz, DC, and Buttermilk Cornbread from Janie Maxwell, executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association.

As always, I encourage you to spend some time outside every day. It’s a great way to take a break, get a little heart-healthy exercise, shake off the winter blahs and reset your mood.

Look for early signs of spring, listen for a cardinal, watch for gulls on a cold day, witness the full moon rise and reconnect with the vitality of the natural world around you.

Wishing you a happy and heart-filled February!

Photo by Peggy Malecki

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Departments 6 News Briefs 9 2025 Yoga Network

Contents

12 Health Briefs 14 Global Briefs 16 Eco Tip 18 Natural Chicago 19 Event Brief 20 Educational Corner 22 Feature Story

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26 Conscious Eating

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31 Farmers Market Kitchen 32 Fit Body

16 Handmade Gifts for Valentine’s Day

34 Inspiration

18 Winter Gull Watching Affords Glimpses of Rare Beauties From Up North

36 Natural Pet 37 Calendar

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22 The Thriving Heart

42 Classifieds

26 Chocolate Champions

43 Resource Guide

30 Navy Bean Tuscan Kale Soup 31 Sweeten Your Winter Table With Buttermilk Cornbread

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34 Healing Power of Hugs 36 Holistic Lifestyle for Dogs

Advertising & Submissions

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

Editorial Submissions

Email articles, news items and ideas to: Amy@NAChicago.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

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.

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News Briefs

The University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners and the Center for Agrarian Learning invite the public to the second annual Great Seed Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on February 1 in the cafeteria at McHenry County College, in Crystal Lake. This free program goes beyond a traditional seed swap, and will include community partners, vendors, raffles, kids’ activities, demonstrations and expert speakers throughout the day. Participants do not need to bring seeds to attend.

Featured presentations include Jason Jurey from CropKing Inc. on Basics of Home Hydroponics and Seed Starting (10:30 a.m.); Nick Fuller from Natural Communities LLC on Restoring Illinois Native Landscapes (11:30 a.m.); Scott Hucker from Great Lakes Staple Seeds on Growing Grains: From the Garden to the Table (12:30 p.m.); and Eleanor Schumacher from Project Wingspan with updates on this statewide seed collection network (1:30 p.m.).

Attendees can park on campus in the B lot near the flagpoles and enter through the B doors.

The event opens at 10 a.m., and early arrivals will not be admitted. Organizers request participants take only the seeds they plan to use to ensure there'll be enough for everyone.

Location: 8900 U.S. 14, MCC Cafeteria, Crystal Lake. For more information or to register for reminders, visit Eventbrite.com/e/the-great-seed-event-tickets-1002343054057.

Unlock the Secrets to Manifesting Desires The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center invites participants to join Henrietta Atkin, author and intuitive, for a four-session virtual class, Manifesting With Your Heart, designed to help individuals align their heart, body and spirit to successfully manifest their desires. The course takes place via Zoom from 7 to 9 p.m. on February 3 and 17, and March 3 and 17.

Photo courtesy of Edgar Cayce Holistic Center

The program provides a step-by-step guide to manifesting, including nine principles of successful creation. Recordings will be available for all sessions. Between classes, participants can engage in a Facebook guidance group, facilitated by Atkin, to ask questions and share insights. The required course text, Creating Your Heart’s Desire, by Sonia Choquette, Ph.D., is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.

Cost: $90. For more information or to register, call 847-299-6535 or visit HolisticCenterChicago.com.

See ad on page 14, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Henrietta Atkin 6

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Boost Cardiovascular Health With EWOT Oxygen Therapy Health Clarified, in Northbrook, is offering a 20 percent discount on their Exercise With Oxygen Therapy (EWOT) 12-pack this month.

Photo courtesy Health Clarified

Grow Gardening Knowledge at McHenry County’s Great Seed Event

“EWOT is a powerful way to enhance cardiovascular health,” says Kim Henderson, DC, founder of the health center. “By combining exercise with concentrated oxygen, it supports heart function and optimizes the body’s performance.”

According to Henderson, EWOT involves low-to-moderate exercise while breathing concentrated oxygen, delivering benefits such as improved blood flow, enhanced heart function, reduced strain on the heart and lower blood pressure. “It also increases oxygen flow to vital organs and reduces inflammation in vessel walls for weeks,” she explains.

Health Clarified invites individuals to take advantage of this limited-time offer to explore firsthand the potential benefits of EWOT. Location: 2165A Shermer Rd., Northbrook.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668 or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com. See ad on page 13, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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News Briefs

Cultivate Success at MCC’s Cut Flower Production Workshop The Center for Agrarian Learning at McHenry County College invites aspiring and seasoned farmers to its Specialty Growers Intensive: Cut Flower Production, a two-day workshop from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on March 1 and 2. Participants will gain practical skills in growing and marketing cut flowers, with presentations on such topics as seed starting, transplants, field preparation and harvesting.

Sessions will also explore varietal selection, record keeping, market differentiation and floral design. Hands-on demonstrations in campus high tunnels will provide real-world experience with tools and techniques.

Led by a team of experienced farmers and specialists, the workshop offers diverse perspectives, sharing both successes and challenges from their own trials. Registration closes February 21. The fee includes access to multiple instructors, a resource binder, hands-on demonstrations, and catered lunches and snacks each day.

Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference Offers Deep-Dive Preconference Learning Opportunities The 14th annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference, taking place May 23 through 25 at Camp Helen Brachman, in Almond, Wisconsin, will feature preconference events that include a two-day intensive, one-day immersion and a three-hour workshop. Participants may register for the preconference options individually or as part of the full weekend experience. Early registration discounts are available.

Explore Health and Sustainability at the Wellness Trends Expo in Schaumburg Chicago-area residents can explore how to stay healthy and live sustainably at the Wellness Trends Healthy Living Expo Targi Zdrowego Stylu Zycia, being held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 22 and 23 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, in Schaumburg. This successful event returns for its fourth year to showcase eco-friendly health innovations and offer valuable wellness insights through lectures and vendor booths.

The expo features expert-led seminars, guidance on healthy living and the latest trends in wellness. It’s also an excellent networking opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas and learn about wellness products.

Expo-goers can look forward to keynote presentations from health specialists and exhibits from companies specializing in chemical- and pesticide-free offerings, as well as healthy foods, health-related products and local wellness services. The event highlights the importance of prevention and maintaining a balanced lifestyle as keys to long-term well-being.

Vendor applications are still being accepted.

Location: 1939 N. Meacham Rd., Schaumburg. For more information, call 773-339-2928, email WellnessTrendsChicago@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/TargiZdrowia2022. See ad on page 23.

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Photo credit Kari Witthuhn

Cost: $345. Location: 8900 U.S. 14, MCC Cafeteria, Crystal Lake. For more information, call 815-479-7618 or email Sheri Doyel at SDoyel@McHenry.edu. To register, visit Eventbrite. com/e/specialty-growers-intensive-cut-flower-production-tickets-1144902557369. See ad on page 17.

Preconference topics include Clinical Herbal Practice, Herbal Medicine Making, Five Elements of East Asian Medicine, Harvest Basket Weaving, Family Directed Funerals, Dreaming With the Ancestors and Community Herbalism in Disaster Situations. A cacao ceremony is also among the offerings.

Keynote speaker Robin Wall Kimmerer will present a three-hour workshop on the Honorable Harvest as part of the preconference lineup.

Location: Almond, WI. For more information, visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com/ mwhc-preconference. To register, visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com. See ad on page 17.

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2025 SPONSORED CONTENT

YOGA, PILATES, DANCE, FITNESS & MOVEMENT NETWORK

INSPIRE YOGA & WELLNESS

Stanislava Jankovic-Stasha, founder Certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher | Natural Health Coach (BCNHC, CNC) | Certified Detox Specialist | Certified Iridologist 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village 312-593-4366 InspireYogaWellness.com What inspired you to open a yoga studio?

Photo courtesy Inspire Yoga & Wellness

Inspire Yoga & Wellness was founded with a mission to guide and empower individuals to heal on every level—physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

The studio was born from a deep understanding that the body has an innate

Stanislava "Stasha" Jankovic

ability to heal when given the proper tools and environment. Drawing from years of study with experts in naturopathy, iridology, yoga, and spiritual healing, Inspire Yoga & Wellness embodies a holistic approach rooted in nature’s principles and simplicity.

How would you describe your studio or practice (what’s the vibe)? What types of yoga classes do you offer?

At the core of our offerings is Kundalini yoga, an ancient practice that combines movement, breathwork, meditation and chanting to activate the body’s energy centers and stimulate natural healing. This unique approach transcends traditional yoga by working quickly and deeply to release emotional blockages, strengthen the nervous system, and elevate consciousness. Kundalini yoga fosters mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual growth, creating a transformative experience that helps individuals feel more aligned, joyful and resilient.

We offer services that address the root causes of imbalance and support total well-being, including detoxification programs, iridology consultations, 1:1 health coaching and modern therapies like infrared sauna and red-light therapy. Each modality is designed to restore balance and

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harmony, addressing the interconnected nature of the body, mind, and spirit.

What makes your studio unique?

Inspire Yoga & Wellness is truly unique is its authenticity and commitment to effective, holistic care. Every service and practice offered has been thoroughly explored and practiced, ensuring that clients receive tried-and-true methods for healing and self-improvement. The studio’s emphasis on Kundalini yoga as a cornerstone of its offerings distinguishes it from traditional wellness centers, providing a practice that works deeply and efficiently to foster transformation.

Inspire Yoga & Wellness provides more than just services—it offers a sanctuary for transformation. By blending ancient wisdom with modern techniques, the studio helps individuals reconnect with their inner strength and discover a life filled with peace, balance and vitality.

What is new and exciting happening/ coming up at the studio this year?

Inspire Yoga & Wellness plans to expand its impact through workshops, retreats and virtual programs, continuing to cultivate a vibrant community where healing and growth flourish.

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February 2025

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News Briefs

Reawaken Joy Through Kirtan The Chicago Center of Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF), in River Forest, invites the community to experience kirtan (devotional chanting) on the fourth Sunday of each month from 9:30 to 10:40 a.m. Regular meditation sessions are also held every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. The monthly kirtan gatherings, inspired by SRF founder Paramahansa Yogananda, provide an opportunity for participants to engage in “soul-saturated songs used for divine communion.”

All are welcome.

Photo credit CCSRF

Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi and widely regarded as the father of yoga in the West, introduced kirtan to American audiences in the 1920s. He described devotional chanting as a transformative spiritual practice, saying, “chanting is half the battle” on the spiritual path.

According to Vedic philosophy, devotional chanting can quiet the mind and open the heart, helping participants connect with their blissful, true nature.

Best Prep for Pregnancy

Online Event and Expo Offers Fertility Guidance Helping couples make informed decisions about their reproductive health, Best Prep for Pregnancy is a five-day online event and expo from March 25 through 29, featuring more than 30 experts and exhibitors. Attendees will gain insights into the root causes of female and male infertility, and learn about a whole-health approach to optimal fertility that protects parents and their babies. This immersive conference will offer a wealth of vital tips and solutions for those trying to conceive naturally or with the help of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing.

Location: 946 N. Harlem Ave., River Forest. For more information, visit ChicagoMeditationCenter.org and SRFLessons.org. See ad on page 35, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Psychic Readings by Sarah Offers Guidance and Spiritual Insight

“In an uncertain world, psychic readings offer vital insights and guidance,” says Miller. “They validate our instincts, boost self-confidence and provide clarity in decision-making while offering comfort and closure during difficult times.”

Photo courtesy Sarah Miller

Psychic Readings by Sarah, in Glenview, offers a unique space for spiritual insight, clarity and healing. Services include psychic readings, tarot card readings, astrology consultations, chakra balancing and spiritual counseling. With more than 30 years of experience, Sarah Miller provides wisdom and intuitive guidance to help clients uncover their life’s purpose, overcome challenges and embrace their true potential.

“Combining traditional and modern medicine offers a holistic approach to fertility, enhancing the chances of conception," says event host Dr. Susan Fox, a specialist in reproductive health with more than 23 years of experience. She will be joined by other notable speakers, including Dr. Sarah Green, a leading advocate for integrative fertility methods, and Dr. James Patel, a specialist in egg freezing and IVF technologies.

Miller’s sessions are deeply personal, creating a sacred space where clients feel heard, supported and empowered. Whether in person or remote, her goal is to guide individuals holistically toward self-discovery, emotional healing and spiritual growth.

Sponsored by KnoWEWell and Natural Awakenings magazine, the event will include individual talks, interactive workshops and exhibitor presentations. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with professionals, ask questions and connect with others on similar journeys.

Location: 2834 Golf Rd., Glenview. For more information, call 847-470-0049 or visit PsychicReadingsGlenview.com. See ad in on page 11, the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

For more information or to register, visit BestPrep4Pregnancy.com. See ads on pages 2 and 3.

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Sarah Miller

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FIND YOUR SOULMATE Don’t spend another year alone. Find your life partner and celebrate love not only for Valentine’s Day but every day.

PSYCHIC READINGS GLENVIEW Psychic • Astrology Readings Tarot • Chakra Balancing Spiritual Counsel • Much More In-person and Remote Psychic Sarah is here to help you close the chapter on the past with insight and compassion, and help guide you to a brighter, more purposeful future.

As a multi-generational reader with more than 30 years of experience, Sarah specializes in personalized guidance to help you uncover hidden truths, heal emotional wounds and align with your destiny. Through her intuitive readings and spiritual counsel, she creates a safe and empowering space for self-discovery and transformation.

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A Silent Signal of Cardiovascular Risk in Men

by Jerry Garcia, PA-C, and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA Erectile dysfunction (ED) is not just a sexual health concern—it can be a crucial early warning sign of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Often, ED stems from vascular issues, where restricted blood flow to the penis mirrors similar blockages in other areas of the body. The same mechanisms that hinder erections can lead to heart attacks, strokes and other serious problems.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic

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Health Briefs

Research shows that ED frequently coexists with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol—key risk factors for CVD. In fact, studies suggest ED can be an early indicator of heart disease, making it a vital signal for men’s overall health as reported in Primary Care in 2005. For this reason, men experiencing ED should undergo a thorough cardiovascular evaluation.

Men with ED, particularly younger ones, should be aware that this condition may be an early marker of heart disease. A healthcare provider will likely assess whether the cause is related to poor blood flow or other factors, such as hormonal imbalances or psychological issues. Lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, diet and age, also play a significant role in heart disease risk.

Raymond Wohl and Jerry Garcia

For men at low cardiovascular risk, addressing common factors such as weight, blood pressure and cholesterol can help prevent further complications. Those with higher risk or heart symptoms should consult a cardiologist for advanced evaluation. Noninvasive imaging tests can detect arterial plaque buildup, which may signal future cardiovascular events.

ED is more than a sexual health issue—it’s a vital red flag for potential heart disease. Addressing ED early and taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular health can lead to better long-term outcomes and improved quality of life.

Jerry Garcia is the medical director and Raymond Wohl is the business manager and patient care coordinator of Chicago Male Clinic, a holistic health and wellness center for men located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, in Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 15, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Maybe part of falling in love with someone else is also falling in love with yourself.

—Nicola Yoon

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Diet To Reduce Biological Age

A study published in BMC Medicine compared the effects of a vegan diet versus an omnivorous diet on the biological age of 21 pairs of healthy, adult identical twins. The study comprised two four-week phases: delivered meals and self-provided meals. The participants also received nutritional education about choosing minimally processed foods and building balanced plates. Food intake details were captured at the start of the study and again at week four and week eight. Blood tests were taken at the beginning and end of the study to measure DNA methylation, a marker of biological age. Only the vegan group showed a reduction in biological age, with an average reduction of .63 years after eight weeks on the diet. Reductions in the estimated ages of the heart, hormone, liver, inflammatory and metabolic systems were also noted.

Boost Your Heart Health with EWOT at Health Clarified Exercise with Oxygen Therapy (EWOT) is a powerful way to enhance cardiovascular health.

By combining exercise with concentrated oxygen, EWOT supports heart function and optimizes your body’s performance.

EWOT involves low-to-moderate exercise while breathing concentrated oxygen, which boosts cardiovascular efficiency.

Izobrazheniya pol'zovatelya Anton Estrada/CanvaPro

Key benefits include:

3D Printed Teeth

miriam-doerr from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Formlabs, a leading supplier of 3D printers, has introduced Premium Teeth Resin, made with biocompatible material that the company claims enhances aesthetics and has been validated for longevity. The resin can be used for 3-dimensional printing of dentures; temporary full-arch implant-supported restorations; and temporary crowns, inlays, onlays, veneers and bridges up to seven units. Formlabs reports that Premium Teeth Resin is cleared for use in the U.S., European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland and Canada.

• Lowered blood pressure and heart rate • Improved blood flow • Enhanced heart function • Reduced strain on the heart • Increased oxygen flow to vital organs

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February 2025

13

Global Briefs

Wasps for Pest Control

Carol Hamilton from Getty Images/CanvaPro

In August 2024, the 1,000th captive-bred Florida grasshopper sparrow was released into the wild. After observing only 50 of these birds in the wild in 2015, conservationists moved the remaining breeding birds into captivity in an attempt to save the species. These five-inch-tall birds are native to the prairie regions of central Florida and play a crucial part in the local food web, including controlling insect populations. The sparrow’s population decline was due to habitat loss and degradation. Scientists caution that the wild population of Florida grasshopper sparrows is not stable enough to declare the species saved, but the release is a major milestone in its recovery.

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Ground-nesting and paper wasps are invasive species in New Zealand, and it is believed that they arrived in the country in crates of aircraft parts from Europe after World War II. Since then, their populations have exploded due to abundant food sources and a lack of natural predators. Researchers are studying the use of paper wasps in controlling caterpillar populations, a common pest in agriculture. The researchers found the wasps consumed the caterpillars on produce in just a few hours in a controlled setting.

PeteMuller from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

Comeback of the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow

The next experiments will include placing the small paper wasp nests near agricultural fields with caterpillar infestations to see if the wasps can manage the pests. If successful, deploying wasps for pest control would mitigate the use and risks associated with agricultural chemicals, promote biodiversity and reduce soil and water contamination. New Zealand currently uses more than 5,000 tons of pesticides annually.

Mon., Feb. 3, 17, & Mar. 3, 17, 7:00-9:00 pm Manifesting With Your Heart

Saturday, February 8, 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E.

HolisticCenter Holistic Holistic Health • Spiritual Growth Meditation • Psychic Development

“Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Chicago” “Spiritual Growth and Personal Development” 14

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What Does Your Face Say About You? Hawaiian Elemental Healings

Friday, February 14, 6:00 - 9:00 pm Sacred Self-Care Friday Akashic Records Readings Biofield Tuning

Saturday, February 22, 2:00 - 5:00 pm Aura Energy Scan and Reiki Healing

Sunday, February 23, 2:00 - 5:00 pm Astral Readings I-Ching Oracle Card Readings Visit our website for details/registration:

holisticcenterchicago.com

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WILD THINGS RETURNS Saturday, March 1, 2025 Rosemont, IL The Wild Things 2025 Conference invites nature enthusiasts, volunteers, and conservation professionals to learn about the flora, fauna, and natural history of the Prairie State. Learn more at wildthingscommunity.org

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February 2025

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Eco Tip

Handmade Gifts for Valentine’s Day F

Recycled Heart Wreath

simarik from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

Paint six to 10 toilet paper tubes red and let them dry. Flatten the rolls and cut them into four equal-sized rings. Indent each ring to shape it into a heart and arrange them into a larger heart shape. Glue the pieces together and allow them to dry for several hours.

Then, make holes on the top of the large heart—one on each side—thread a piece of twine or string through the holes and secure it to make a hanger for the wreath.

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Thumbprint Heart Jar

Use empty jars to make upcycled vases for flowers. Wash and dry the containers, then paint the exterior with white acrylic or spray paint. When the paint is fully dry, create heart shapes on the jar using a finger dipped in red or pink paint. After the hearts dry, spray the jar with a clear sealant to protect the art. Fill the jars with flowers and deliver them to that special Valentine.

Birdseed Ornament

An ideal gift for any bird lover, this heart-shaped ornament is a delicious treat for feathered friends. Following the directions on the packaging, dissolve two packets of gelatin in hot water. Add oneand-a-half cups of birdseed to the gelatin and stir thoroughly. Place parchment paper and heart-shaped cookie cutters on a baking sheet. Pour the birdseed mixture into the molds and press down. Place a piece of straw near the top of the mold to create a hole for the string. Put the baking sheet with the ornaments in the refrigerator for 24 hours. After the ornaments have fully hardened, remove the straw and thread a piece of twine through the hole, tying it so the ornaments can be hung outside for birds to enjoy.

Melted Crayon Hearts

Having kids means there are usually broken crayons everywhere. Use the pieces to

Sarah Throckmorton from Getty Images/CanvaPro

ebruary 14 is a time to celebrate romantic and platonic love among friends, family, coworkers, teachers, pets and significant others. Expressions of affection and adoration are traditionally made through the exchange of cards, flowers, candy and other gifts, prompting consumers to spend nearly $26 billion in 2024, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. This Valentine’s Day, say “I love you” with one of these heartfelt, do-it-yourself crafts that are easy on the planet and the wallet.

make a new, colorful, heart-shaped crayon. Collect the old crayons, remove any labels and break them into small pieces.

Heat the oven to 200° F. Overfill heartshaped silicone baking molds with broken crayon (they will condense as they melt).

Place the molds on a baking sheet in the oven for 25 minutes or until the crayons are melted. If after 25 minutes the crayons are not melted, raise the temperature to 225o F and bake for an additional five minutes, watching carefully to ensure they do not burn. Once thoroughly melted, remove the molds from the oven and let cool completely. Then carefully remove the colorful crayons from the molds.

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February 2025

17

Natural Chicago

Winter Gull Watching Affords Glimpses of Rare Beauties From Up North

by Sheryl DeVore

S

ome folks consider gulls a nuisance, especially in summer when the noisy birds hang around beaches. However, Amar Ayyash, author of the award-winning The Gull Guide: North America (Princeton University Press, 2024), has found much to admire about these fascinating birds, often called seagulls—though not all live by the sea.

“Gulls are a very diverse group of birds,” Ayyash says. “Some live in the Arctic, scavenging polar bear kills. Others nest on rooftops in inner cities. They are master opportunists. No gull species is known to have gone extinct for as long as we’ve kept records. They are also great bioindicators, signaling to biologists and conservationists when an ecosystem is in trouble.”

Interestingly, the most common gull in the Chicago region, the ring-billed gull, along with other gull species, egrets and terns, were hunted in the late 19th century for their white feathers, which were used to adorn ladies’ hats. These species suffered drastic declines, prompting the 1916 Migratory Bird Treaty Act between Canada and the United States, which protects these and other birds.

Ring-billed and other gull species numbers began to rise after the treaty’s passage.

The adult ring-billed gull has a white head and underparts, a gray back, yellow eyes, yellow legs and a yellow bill with a black ring near the tip. In winter, adults often have dark speckling or shading on their heads.

Immature ring-billed gulls vary more in appearance, making them harder to identify.

Some migrate farther south in winter, while the American herring gull becomes more common in the Chicago area. Larger than ring-billed gulls, herring gulls have pinkish legs and a red spot on their yellow bills instead of a black ring.

“In winter, the real prizes are the Iceland gull, great black-backed gull and glaucous gull,” Ayyash says. “The Iceland gulls are the muses of winter gull watching. These Arctic denizens show a dazzling array of black and white on their wingtips, and the juveniles have pale, buffy plumages with stunning patterns.” Ayyash and other birders typically

Ayyash, a nationally recognized gull expert and administrator of the North American Gulls Facebook page, coordinates the annual Gull Frolic in mid-February at North Point Marina, in Winthrop Harbor. The event almost always sells out.

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Photo by Amar Ayyash

Twenty-two species of gulls have been documented in Illinois, and winter is Ayyash’s favorite time to watch them. “In the Chicago region, wintertime brings hope of seeing northern gulls,” the Orland Park resident explains. “Gulls from Canada and Greenland descend on our lakes and rivers, having traveled thousands of miles south where they’re looking for open water and landfills.”

An adult ring-billed gull.

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Event Brief see these three species in winter near lakefronts, large rivers and landfills, along with the more common year-round gull species.

Iceland gulls breed along rocky coasts from Greenland to northeastern Canada. The glaucous gull, the second-largest gull, also breeds in the Arctic. While many adults remain there year-round, some migrate south in search of food. These pearly gray-to-white gulls are distinguishable in flight from the slightly smaller herring gulls because they lack any black in their wing tips. Mostly immature glaucous gulls are seen in the Chicago region and sport some speckling on their necks.

The largest gull in the world, the great blackbacked gull, breeds along coastlines in Europe and North America. Adults have dark backs and wings, while immatures display a more checkered black-and-white pattern on their backs.

Birder Robert Hughes finds Chicago winters bearable because of gulls. “Especially in winter, there’s always a chance of finding a really extraordinary species,” says the Chicago resident.

Ayyash has encountered some ultra-rare gulls in the Chicago region. One bitterly cold winter day, he spotted an ivory gull—a very small, all-white bird that nests in Russia, Greenland and Canada—in a parking lot next to the Lake County Fairgrounds. The bird was drawn to a landfill across the street.

“Its population is estimated to be at the most 27,000 individuals in the world,” according to Birdlife International. “It’s one of the holy grails of birding,” Ayyash says.

“This is perhaps the rarest gull I’ve found in North America.”

On Valentine’s Day several years ago, Ayyash and visiting Dutch birder Maarten van Kleinwee spotted a slaty-backed gull at the fairgrounds. “This rare, large Asian blackbacked gull descended on the same parking lot where the ivory gull was,” Ayyash says.

Van Kleinwee had traveled to the Chicago region specifically to study American herring gulls.

Explore Illinois’ Wild Side at the Wild Things 2025 Conference

N

ature lovers, conservationists and science educators are invited to attend the Wild Things 2025 Conference from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 1 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center, in Rosemont. As one of the Midwest’s largest conservation gatherings, this biennial event features an extensive lineup of presentations on ecology, biodiversity conservation, nature-based education, environmental justice and advocacy, climate change, volunteer-led stewardship of natural lands, arts and culture, and wildlife.

“The health of our natural areas is linked to the communities that care for them, whether it’s through conservation, education or stewardship,” says Eriko Kojima, local volunteer stewardship leader and Board Member of Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves.

“The Wild Things conference is an opportunity to learn from the people who do this work; a place to share the ideas, insights and inspiration that energize this movement; and a call to action for each of us to join in.”

This year’s keynote speaker is Marla Garrison, an author, biologist and researcher with expertise in dragonflies and damselflies. Botanist and science communicator Joey Santore, host of the YouTube channel Crime Pays But Botany Doesn’t, will deliver the closing plenary presentation.

With 140 presentations and panels, attendees can explore topics such as engaging preschoolers in environmental stewardship, the role of native pollinators and strategies for using social media in conservation. The event also includes exhibitors, book signings with ecology writers and networking opportunities.

“This year is shaping up to be the largest Wild Things Conference ever,” says Robb Telfer, program director for Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves. “Wild Things is the open house for the conservation movement in Illinois—everyone who attends can find new ways to lend their talents and passions to the causes they believe in.”

Cost: General admission is $60, with student tickets priced at $40. Scholarship assistance is available to help cover registration, lunch and travel. Location: 5555 N. River Rd., Rosemont. For tickets and program details, visit WildThingsCommunity.org.

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Photo credit ©Carol Freeman Photography

Snowy Owl An arctic dweller that nests on the tundra, the snowy owl makes periodic movements farther south in winter when food, including the lemming, is scarce.

One of the world’s largest owls, the snowy can have a wingspread of up to 6 feet. It stands 20 to 27 inches tall. When snowy owls move south in winter, they Snowy Owl Bubo Scandiacus can be found in cornfields, short grasslands and along coastal shorelines, which resemble their tundra home.

Distribution: Snowy owls nest in the Arctic tundra, moving south in winter, sometimes as far south as Texas and Georgia, though more frequently in the Northeast and northern Midwest.

Fun Facts: • Males are nearly pure white, females have flecks of black and juveniles appear more dark than white.

• Harry Potter made the snowy owl famous when he kept one of them as his pet in the books written by J.K. Rowling.

• Unlike some other owls, snowy owls hunt during the day.

Sponsored in part in collaboration with Team Green.

Photo by Amar Ayyash

Educational Corner

The very rare ivory gull spotted in Lake County.

Though Ayyash admits gulls “can be a nuisance at times,” he says, “I couldn’t imagine a body of water with no gulls. I very seldom meet someone who isn’t amused by gulls, especially when I stop to talk to people and point out what it is I’m looking at.”

According to Ayyash, the best places to watch gulls in winter include North Point Marina, Waukegan Harbor, Montrose Harbor, Navy Pier and parking lots, lakes and fields next to landfills.

He manages the annual Gull Frolic held at North Point Marina in mid-February. It’s the best time to learn about gull watching because experts are out on the shoreline with scopes showing the different species to visitors. “The event sells out months in advance,” Ayyash notes. “You can try to get on the waiting list for this year’s event.”

For more information, visit IllinoisBirds.org/event/23rd-annual-iosgull-frolic-2025. Registration for the February 2026 Gull Frolic will open in November.

Amar Ayyash has written a new book, The Gull Guide: North America, published by Princeton University Press in 2024.

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Birders look for gulls at North Point Marina during the annual Gull Frolic in Winthrop Harbor.

Photo by Amar Ayyash

Photo by Sheryl DeVore

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.

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Winter Tree and Shrub Care Tips From Bartlett Tree Experts Even though trees live and grow outside, that doesn’t mean that the challenges of winter aren’t stressful for them. Low temperatures, heavy snow, ice storms and other extremes cause a variety of winter injuries on landscape plants. It’s important to know what type of problems to look for during winter.

WE’RE FOR EVERY TREE.

Low Temperature Injuries

Root damage can happen during prolonged cold spells, especially on shallow-rooted plants, container plantings and non-native plants. When roots die during this weather, the symptoms won’t appear until late winter or spring. At that point, foliage turns brown, buds die and the entire crown may wilt and die suddenly.

Low temperatures can also kill above-ground portions of plants.

Non-native plants are most susceptible.

Winter Drying

Winter drying generally affects evergreens, particularly mountain laurel, rhododendron, azalea and holly. Plants continue to transpire water during winter. When the soil is frozen, that water cannot be replaced, and the foliage dries out. As with injury from low temperatures, in late winter or spring, foliage will turn brown, and buds will die.

Stem Splitting or “Frost Cracks”

Frost cracks generally occur on young, thin-barked trees like maple, sycamore or linden. The sudden drop in temperature from sunny, daytime highs to the very lows of nighttime causes stem tissues to shrink and wood to crack. In severe instances, cracks can extend well into the heartwood, but usually, it is restricted to the outer few inches of wood.

Breakage from Snow and Ice Accumulation

The added weight of ice and snow can break branches. Heavy or long limbs, branches showing signs of decay, or those with a weak branch attachment are more vulnerable. This can also be an issue for evergreens, which have a large surface area to “hold” snow.

Deicing Salt Injuries

The salt (sodium chloride) commonly used as a deicing agent can splash onto plants or seep into soil. Salt spray dries out foliage and buds. In the soil, high levels of salt dry out, and can kill, plant roots.

Damage from Animals

Some animal activity during winter is harmful to trees and shrubs.

Deer are one example. As other food sources become unavailable, deer turn to twigs and buds for sustenance.

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Small rodents and rabbits can eat bark tissue around the lower stem and root collar during winter. This can result in evenyual tree death if the bark is completely stripped from the tree.

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February 2025

21

Feature Story

The Thriving Heart Integrative Approaches to Cardiology

by Carrie Jackson

A

The 100-Year Heart

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, bestselling author and founder of the site NaturalHeartDoctor.com. He pioneered the 100-year heart method, which focuses on what he calls “thrival” nutrition, lifestyle, biohacking and ultra-diagnostics to lead a life filled with vitality, clarity and longevity. “Our approach is root-cause medicine, which puts pharma last,” he explains. “By looking at daily habits and lifestyle choices, we are able to see why people develop cardiovascular disease, which is the number one killer worldwide.”

Wolfson notes that cardiovascular health begins by giving the heart the nutrition it

needs to thrive. “Food is medicine, and a paleo-based diet like our ancestors followed has been shown to optimize heart function,” he says. “I recommend patients focus on eating wild seafood and pasture-raised meats such as bison, including organs like the heart and liver. This is supplemented by foraging for things like eggs, raw dairy, nuts, seeds, avocados, coconuts and other fruits and vegetables.”

How we live has a dramatic effect on heart health, and Wolfson asserts that there are a number of lifestyle factors we can control.

“A thrival lifestyle centers around being outside in natural sunlight and participating in activities we enjoy. When combined with a

Peoplelmages.com - Yuri A/Shutterstock

lthough only the size of a fist, our hearts pump blood to our organs and supply oxygen and nutrients to our cells, allowing every system to function optimally. Maintaining a healthy heart is one of the most important factors for overall wellness, and cardiovascular disease is highly preventable. Integrative cardiology, which focuses on treating the whole person rather than just the heart, reflects a shift toward more individualized, patient-centered care. Using personalized nutrition, expansive blood testing, advanced therapies and holistic practices, doctors and patients can blend the best of traditional and integrative strategies for a more balanced and effective approach to heart health.

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positive mindset and high-quality sleep, these practices increase longevity and contribute to a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment,” he says. “It’s also essential to avoid environmental toxins, such as air pollution, plastic and indoor pollutants like mold from water damage, to the best of your ability. Finally, managing stress and getting movement throughout your day are key to optimal cardiovascular function.”

A truly holistic approach to wellness combines many interrelated tools. “Find an activity you love to do outside, whether that’s hiking, biking, stand-up paddleboarding or yoga. Before you begin, turn your attention inward and think of three things you are grateful for,” Wolfson advises. “This gratitude practice helps you find your happy place, and it gives you a sense of purpose in a world where that’s becoming increasingly difficult. It engages the autonomic nervous system, which controls functions like heart rate and blood pressure.”

Wolfson believes that for a healthy mind, body and heart, a chiropractor should be the gatekeeper to overall wellness. “Chiropractic care uses the manipulations of bones in a purposeful way to make impactful changes to the neurologic system. It sends out beneficial, efferent signals to all of the cells, tissues and organs, including the heart. It also helps to get us out of the ‘fight-flight-or-freeze’ mode that so many people are operating in,” he remarks. “Chronic stress

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Feature Story from work, family, news and finances keeps the sympathetic nervous system activated, but chiropractic treatments help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows us to rest and digest.”

To kickstart heart health even further, Wolfson’s 100-year heart method uses thrival biohacking methods such as supplements and non-surgical recovery therapies. “Evidence-based, food-grade supplements from field-harvested animals and wild fish support heart function without chemicals or pharmaceuticals,” he points out. “People also may need additional minerals like magnesium, herbal remedies, probiotics or detox strategies if they’ve been living around pollutants.

Non-invasive technologies like red light therapy, sauna use, massage, ozone therapy and other cutting-edge treatments help to hack our system and support a healthy heart.”

Treating the Whole Person

Dr. Mimi Guarneri is a California-based cardiologist; the medical director of Pacific Pearl La Jolla; an award-winning researcher, consultant and philanthropist; and president of the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine. In her practice, she combines conventional, integrative and natural medicine to holistically treat the whole patient.

Guarneri says that while cardiovascular disease is still largely misunderstood, it is also highly preventable. “People think it’s a disease of cholesterol, but it’s actually due to inflammation, oxidative stress and immune response,” she explains. “Inflammation can

come from obesity, stress, sleep apnea, poor food choices and food sensitivities, and that is what causes damage to the lining of the blood vessels. In the conventional medicine realm, that means telling patients to stop smoking, lose weight and get blood pressure and cholesterol under control. From a holistic perspective, we look at all the lifestyle factors that contribute to heart health.”

When treating a patient with heart disease, Guarneri uses the metaphor of a tree with sick branches. “Instead of just cutting them off, you have to look at the soil to see what can be causing the illness. The soil of our lives includes micro- and macro-nutrition, a healthy microbiome, avoiding toxins, high-quality sleep, physical activity and mental, emotional and spiritual wellness.

All these factors contribute to healthy heart function,” she says.

Guarneri uses advanced testing to assess a patient’s baseline heart health. “We begin with a blood and urine micronutrient analysis, which measures the level of antioxidants and nutrients in the body. Then we conduct a microbiome analysis, which is a threeday stool test that shows how someone is digesting their food. We can see every type of microbe, any parasites and if there is dysbiosis [imbalance] or bacteria overgrowth.

Finally, we conduct an in-home study on sleep, which is an integral part of cardiovascular health. Someone with sleep apnea can snore and stop breathing, putting them at increased risk for heart disease, heart failure and high blood pressure,” she says.

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Advanced cardiovascular testing shows additional valuable data. “An EndoPAT tells us if the lining of the blood vessels is making nitric oxide, the most important ingredient for heart health. This is a 40-minute, in-office procedure that does not require radiation. Since cardiovascular disease is an inflammatory disease, we do advanced lipid testing to measure inflammatory markers.

A high-sensitivity C-reactive protein test measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. A 24-hour blood pressure cuff tells us what’s happening throughout the day, and a continuous glucose monitor shows how blood sugar reacts to foods. It’s also valuable feedback to the patient, who can see how their body responds to what they’re ingesting,” says Guarneri.

With all this data, the team creates a road map to health. “We make recommendations based on each patient’s individual needs, including supplements, food choices and lifestyle modifications,” she says. “I may suggest nutraceuticals to complete something that’s missing, such as vitamin D, or I may use them to treat a problem. We’ll prescribe omega-3 [fatty acids] if your triglycerides are high, but we’re also going to give you a low glycemic index diet.”

Guarneri works with patients to manage stress through mindfulness, meditation, exercise and other lifestyle choices. “If you are in constant ‘fight-or-flight’ mode, you are producing adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol, which cause blood pressure to go up, the coronary arteries to constrict, cholesterol to increase and oxidative stress to develop,” she explains.

Guarneri points to a study involving Black Americans with hypertension that showed a 48 percent reduction in cardiovascular events through the use of transcendental meditation. “Mindfulness has also been shown to improve telomeres, telomerase and other genes of aging. Making conscious decisions in our behavior in response to stress is key to overall wellness and cardiovascular function. If your habit is to go home and

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have a drink after a hard day, we encourage patients to put on their tennis shoes and take a walk instead,” she says.

The Future of Cardiology

New advancements in cardiology are made all the time. In the coming year, cardiologists and researchers are expected to dig deeper into lipid disorders, obesity management and RNA-based therapies for conditions like cardiac amyloidosis, heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We can also expect to see an increase of awareness and interest in the role lipidology (the study of lipids or fatty acids) has on cardiovascular disease.

“Preventive cardiologists and clinical lipidologists like myself have been checking Lp(a) levels for well over two decades now, but there has been little we could do medically to reduce high levels,” says Yasmine S. Ali, MD, MSCI, FACC, FACP, adding that a number of nucleic acid therapeutic trials suggest this may change soon.

Experts stress that despite technological treatment advancements, preventive care is still the most effective way to ensure cardiovascular health. “Everyday lifestyle choices have the biggest impact on overall wellness and living a life of vitality, clarity and longevity,” says Wolfson.

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

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Conscious Eating

Chocolate Champions

Another nutritional powerhouse is cacao powder, which is made from raw cacao beans and nibs that are fermented and roasted at much lower temperatures than the beans used to make cocoa powder. Although it is more bitter, cacao powder retains more of the bean’s original nutritional value, including flavonoids and antioxidants.

Benefits of Dark Chocolate and Cacao

Therapeutic Indulgence

by Marlaina Donato

“Chocolate affects us deeply when it comes to our emotions. This is why you get it when you are sad, when you are happy or when you want to show your love.

Chocolate doesn’t just hit the heartstrings, it’s also scientific,” says Chris Davis, a private chef and third-generation cocoa devotee from Belmont, North Carolina, who is passionate about the ingredient’s sweet and savory potential.

The benefits of dark chocolate can be traced back to its high flavanol content. Researchers have discovered that this antioxidant supports the production of nitric oxide, which is crucial for improving circulation, relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. Flavanols have also been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, which could reduce the risk of diabetes. Observational studies have shown that indulging in one or two small squares (approximately six grams) of high-quality chocolate daily reduces the risk of mortality from heart disease.

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How Chocolate Is Made

Chocolate production involves a complex set of steps, beginning with a cacao pod that is larger than the palm of a hand. The seeds inside this pod are fermented, dried and roasted to create cocoa beans, which are comprised of nibs, cocoa butter and an outer shell. The nibs are ground and refined to produce cocoa solids, and the shell is ground into cocoa powder. The most beneficial dark chocolate contains 70 to 90 percent cocoa solids with minimal added sugar and no artificial ingredients such as alkali, a flavor enhancer that greatly diminishes flavanol content.

According to Ratza, theobromine, cacao’s main chemical constituent that many confuse for caffeine, has psychological effects that enhance mood. Cacao was an important

Narong KHUEANKAEW from Getty Images/CanvaPro

A

ncient Mayans prepared beans from the cacao tree, mixed with spices, to make a ceremonial drink that was both sacred and medicinal for them. Today, the market is filled with all sorts of chocolaty treats, but dark chocolate is the low-sugar, nutritional superhero that tickles the tastebuds, boosts the production of mood-enhancing endorphins and delivers flavanols, the antioxidant compounds linked to improved cardiovascular health.

“Rich in B vitamins, cacao is full of minerals such as calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and zinc,” says Sara Ratza, from Tarpon Springs, Florida, a clinical herbalist, health practitioner and author of Drinking Chocolate: Ancient Traditions for Modern Healing. “Traditionally, cacao is given to help raise serotonin and level out dopamine, so the Indigenous people share cacao to help those dealing with addictions. Cacao contains hundreds of chemical compounds such as phenethylamine, which is associated with the production of endorphins in the brain.”

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part of her own emotional healing while she grieved the loss of both her brother and father. During the COVID pandemic, she owned and operated a brick-and-mortar chocolate factory and shop. “The stories of people coming in and dealing with the trauma of the time is forever ingrained in my heart,” she recalls.

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Ratza recommends using cacao in the form of nibs or powder from reputable sources.

“If your chocolate has transparency of the origin and/or farm, generally you are buying a higher-quality product,” she explains.

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The Savory Side

For most of us, our love affair with chocolate is based on its sweet form, but a whole world of gourmet fare celebrates its versatility beyond the candy bar or smoothie. For Davis, “The magic truly happens when applied in a savory way. There is a whole other flavor profile to chocolate before sugar is added to it when you want to add an earthy depth to a dish or add smokiness to a protein. Almost any sauce I make with wild game, red meat or red wine I will add a bit of cacao to give it the flavor and color that no other ingredient will come close to.” One of his favorite Mexican recipes is mole, a rich and savory sauce made from chilis and chocolate.

Opening Our Hearts to Chocolate

Ratza believes that consuming chocolate takes us on a journey, if we allow a little time for it to transport and transform us. “Cacao almost forces you to slow down,” she says. “It is important to sit and close your eyes as you sip a cup of cacao or let a piece of chocolate melt on your tongue.”

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

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27

Conscious Eating

MIGHTY MUSHROOM CACAO BITES YIELD: 6 TO 8 BITES

In a high-speed blender, pulse cacao nibs to a flour consistency. Add dates and pulse until completely blended and gooey. Place the mixture into a bowl.

Add the mushroom powder and combine by kneading with hands. Roll dough into bite-sized balls or flatten into a pan and cut into squares.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Ratza.

pixelshot/CanvaPro

Courtesy Chris Davis

¼ cup roasted cacao nibs 4 to 6 pitted Medjool dates 1 scoop of mushroom-blend powder, based on recommended serving on package (Can be reishi, turkey tail or lion’s mane)

CHOCOLATE CHERRY VINAIGRETTE YIELD: 1 QUART As a salad dressing, this pairs wonderfully with goat cheese, mozzarella or feta, as well as almonds, pecans, dried cranberries, avocado or beets. It is also delicious drizzled over chicken or white fish, such as grouper.

1 cup fresh cherries, pitted 3 Tbsp cocoa powder 1 tsp ground cinnamon 2 sprigs fresh thyme ¾ cup apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp lemon juice ½ cup honey 2 Tbsp whole-grain mustard 1½ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 tsp salt plus more to taste Place cherries and honey in a blender and blend until smooth.

Add cocoa powder, salt, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, cinnamon and thyme, and continue blending. Add the oil to the blender in a slow and steady pour until the dressing thickens and fully emulsifies. Will remain fresh for two weeks in the refrigerator.

Recipe courtesy of Chris Davis.

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Quanthem from Getty Images/CanvaPro

HEART-OPENING DRINKING CHOCOLATE YIELD: 1 SERVING This traditional drinking chocolate does not need milk to froth because the fat from the bean creates the traditional froth at the top of the mug. The main ingredient, cacao paste, contains a higher level of hearthealthy, mood-boosting compounds than found in dark chocolate. For 100 percent pure cacao-bean paste, look for ceremonial-grade cacao, which can be found online or in health food stores. ⅛ to ¼ cup cacao paste Dash of cinnamon Dash of cayenne pepper or Cobanero chili pepper Sprinkle of sea salt Sweetener to taste (optional)

GenAI/CanvaPro

Put all ingredients in a 12-ounce mug. Add just enough hot water (almost boiling) to cover the cacao. Whisk by hand or with a frother. Once blended, pour additional hot water to fill the cup. Sip slowly with eyes closed and enjoy.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Ratza.

CHILI AND COCOA SPICE MIXTURE YIELD: 1 CUP This can be sprinkled on anything, but it is especially good on steak, chicken, fish or shrimp. ½ cup cacao nibs 2 dried chilis 1 Tbsp cumin seeds 1 Tbsp paprika 1 Tbsp salt 1 Tbsp black pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic powder Mix everything in batches in a coffee grinder until the mixture is powdered. Store in an airtight container for 30 days.

Recipe courtesy of Chris Davis.

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February 2025

29

Conscious Eating

Photo credit Erin Kunkel

that supports balanced progesterone levels.

A 2021 study published in Nutrients found that eating kaempferol can help increase progesterone naturally and may be especially beneficial for women.

NAVY BEAN TUSCAN KALE SOUP

Support hormone balance with this warming soup, packed with fiber, herbs and nutrient-dense greens.

“This is one of my favorite winter soups for hormone balance,” says Mindy Pelz, DC, a hormone expert and the bestselling author of Eat Like a Girl, a cookbook focused on improving women’s health through food.

Diet plays a major role in our hormone production. Certain foods support hormones, while others disrupt them. This recipe focuses on the former, featuring nourishing ingredients that nudge the body toward healthy hormone levels.

Kale is rich in kaempferol, an antioxidant

Oregano and thyme are high in luteolin, another beneficial antioxidant. A 2019 study identified luteolin as a phytoestrogen—a compound that mimics the body’s natural estrogen—and a 2023 study concluded that eating luteolin-rich herbs like oregano and thyme can support ideal estrogen levels, particularly in perimenopausal and menopausal women.

White beans are high in lignans, another antioxidant that encourages estrogen production. A 2019 review in Molecules found that a lignan-rich diet improves menopausal symptoms, balances hormones and may even lower the risk of chronic disease.

Combine all these nourishing ingredients (and other healthful additions) in the following recipe to create a delicious winter soup, perfect for hormone balance and overall well-being.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS 2 Tbsp avocado oil 1 large onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 celery stalks, chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped 2 fresh thyme sprigs (leaves removed, minced)

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3 fresh oregano sprigs (leaves removed, minced) 1½ tsp sea salt 1 tsp black pepper 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes 5 cups vegetable broth 2 14.5 oz cans cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed 6 cups chopped kale 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Heat avocado oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery and carrots. Cook until onions are translucent (about 2 minutes).

Stir in garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 3 minutes.

Pour in broth and beans. Stir and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Add kale during the last 5 minutes, stirring well.

Serve with a lemon wedge to squeeze on top for extra brightness.

Adapted from Eat Like a Girl: 100+ Delicious Recipes to Balance Hormones, Boost Energy, and Burn Fat (Hay House LLC, 2024). Dr. Mindy Pelz is a world-renowned women’s health expert on a mission to empower women to believe in their bodies.

In addition to Eat Like a Girl, she is the bestselling author of Fast Like a Girl and The Menopause Reset. Her podcast, The Resetter Podcast, is ranked among Apple’s top 20 U.S. science podcasts and routinely features prominent guests such as LeAnn Rimes, Danica Patrick, Lisa Bilyeu, Miesha Tate, Cynthia Thurlow, Sheri Salata, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, Max Lugavere and others. Her YouTube channel has garnered more than 75 million lifetime views and 1 million followers. Pelz holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Kansas and a doctor of chiropractic degree.

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Recipe From a Farmers Market Kitchen

Sweeten Your Winter Table With

Buttermilk Cornbread

by Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN Executive Director, ILFMA

W

This month’s recipe explores using local grains for rich-tasting cornbread with a hint of sweetness. While traditional cornbread includes added sugar, this recipe uses local honey and no added sugar.

The key to great-tasting food is starting with the freshest and best ingredients.

BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD

Preheat oven to 375° F. Lightly grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Make a well in the center.

In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, honey and eggs. Whisk

together. (Pro tip: Use a graduated liquid measuring cup—pour in 1 cup milk, then add honey until it measures 1¼ cups for less mess.)

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and blend until just combined. Add the melted butter and mix again until just combined.

Photo credit Janie Maxwell

YIELDS: 8-12 WEDGES ½ cup butter, melted and cooled slightly 1 cup all-purpose flour* 1 cup yellow cornmeal* ½ tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt 1 cup buttermilk** ¼ cup local honey* 2 large eggs*

Photo credit Janie Maxwell

hen thinking of farmers markets, we often envision seasonal, beautiful fruits and vegetables. However, many farmers markets offer so much more. Meats, poultry, cheese, honey and eggs are available year-round. Winter is an excellent time to explore the variety of products available at these markets.

For a list of Illinois winter farmers markets, visit ilfma.org/find-amarket. Farmers markets and local food co-ops may also offer artisan, Illinois-produced grains.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 23 to 25 minutes or until the top begins to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Serve warm with additional local honey if desired. *Available at winter farmers markets, directly from mills or at local food co-ops. **Buttermilk is available fresh; however, a substitute can be made by adding 1 Tbsp of white vinegar to 1 cup milk. Let the milk sit for 10 minutes before using it in this recipe. Discard any unused buttermilk substitute.

Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN, is the executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ilfma.org.

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31

Fit Body

Stretching for Heart Health Gentle Movements To Regulate Stress and Circulation

by Maya Whitman

A 2020 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests that stretching exercises reduce arterial stiffness, resting heart rate and diastolic blood pressure, generally improving the functioning of blood vessels in adults.

A 2020 study published in The Journal of Physiology by the University of Milan also found improved blood flow, lower blood pressure and decreased stiffness of the arteries in 54 participants that completed a 12-week stretching program. People with stiff arteries often have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or inflammation. Good blood flow reduces arterial wall damage and may lower the risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Try these heart-healthy stretches at least two to three days a week, and repeat each stretch on both sides two to four times.

Seated Forward Bend: Sit on the floor with legs extended straight ahead. Keep the back straight and slowly reach forward for the toes, stretching as far as possible without straining. Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds to gently stretch the hamstrings and lower back, while taking deep, controlled 32

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breaths to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the heart and muscles. Combining physical movement with mindful breathing reduces stress—a key factor in heart disease.

Cat-Cow Stretch: Begin in a tabletop position with hands and knees on the floor. For the “cat” pose, arch the back toward the ceiling while tucking the chin to the chest. Gently shift into the “cow” position by lifting the head while allowing the belly to drop toward the floor. Flow between these two poses for 30 to 40 seconds, focusing on breathing.

This stretch improves circulation, relieves tension in the spine and facilitates better blood flow throughout the body. It also enhances the connection between breath and movement, promoting relaxation and a steady heart rate.

Chest-Opener Stretch: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Clasp hands behind the back and gently lift them up as the chest is opened toward the ceiling. Hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Opening up the chest is great for posture; it also expands the lungs and improves breathing, boosting oxygen intake, which the heart needs to fuel the body efficiently and maintain healthy circulation.

Downward Dog: Start in a tabletop position. Tuck the toes under and lift the hips toward the ceiling to form an inverted “V” shape. Keep the heels as close to the floor as possible and hold for 30 seconds while breathing deeply. This popular yoga pose stretches the shoulders, hamstrings and calves while promoting blood flow to the

All article images CanvaPro

T

he beauty of stretching is that it doesn’t require fancy equipment or hours of dedication. And, it doesn’t just improve flexibility and range of motion in the joints and muscles. In just a few minutes, simple stretches can reduce stress and improve heart health and circulation, too.

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heart and brain and relieving tension in the body. It also encourages a calm, yet focused state of mind.

Side Neck Stretch: Sit or stand tall, keeping the shoulders relaxed. Slowly tilt the head toward one shoulder until there is a feeling of a light stretch along the opposite side of the neck. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds and repeat on the other side. Stress often builds up in the neck and shoulders, which can lead to tension headaches and increased blood pressure. These gentle neck movements will modulate blood pressure and encourage relaxation. Pair the stretch with slow, controlled breathing to calm the nervous system, which can positively impact the heart.

Seated Spinal Twist: Sit on the floor with legs extended. Bend the right knee and place the right foot on the outside of the left thigh.

Place the right hand on the floor behind the back. Place the left elbow on the outside of the right knee. Twist gradually to the right while keeping the spine tall. Hold for 20 seconds, then repeat on the other side. This stretch improves spinal flexibility and stimulates blood flow around the major arteries of the torso. It also massages the internal organs, aiding digestion and indirectly benefiting cardiovascular health.

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33

Inspiration

Healing Power of Hugs

“I

have learned that there is more power in a good strong hug than in a thousand meaningful words,” wrote American novelist Ann Hood, and her words ring true for many of us. When in the arms of a loved one, we share the heartbeat of the present moment. Spiritual traditions provide manifold forms of meditative practices, but embracing another human being might be the most enjoyable way to achieve a deep state of calm and mindfulness.

Hugs can mark beginnings, tethering two lives in committed union, or they can punctuate endings when we say goodbye.

When we are sick or grieving, allowing someone to gather us in their safe embrace is strong medicine.

Science tells us that hugging tames our stress response, bolsters the immune system and helps children to better cope with life later

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Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels/CanvaPro

by Marlaina Donato in adulthood. Our arms are energetic extensions of the heart, and welcoming someone into a circle of security is the body’s act of prayer, engaging the emotions and soothing the soul.

Despite all the good a hug might offer, past trauma or inhibition can prevent us from benefiting from this human need for touch.

Asking someone, “May I give you a hug?” is a good place to begin, and so, too, making the decision to receive someone else’s affectionate gesture. For those without loved ones nearby, therapeutic massage, playing with a pet or clutching a favorite stuffed animal can kick off a similar cascade of feel-good chemicals when we are overwhelmed.

Hugging can be part of our daily spiritual wellness practice, an investment that goes beyond ourselves and into the world, one embrace at a time. Here are a few ideas to

get the ripple effect going: • Hug your partner without sexual agenda and connect heart-to-heart.

• Hug your child during happy times, not only on challenging days.

• Ask for a hug; initiation is a sign of strength, not neediness.

• Hold a hug for at least 20 seconds.

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

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Natural Pet

Holistic Lifestyle for Dogs How Herbs, Mushrooms and the Outdoors Can Help

by Rita Hogan

• Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) modulates the immune system, the gut and the nervous system.

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis) improves coat condition, liver function and helps balance the microbiome.

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

C

aring for a dog holistically involves supporting their body, mind and environment in a balanced, natural way that emphasizes prevention and harmony, rather than merely addressing symptoms.

Incorporating herbs and mushrooms into a dog’s daily routine, and learning which are most beneficial throughout the year, are effective ways to achieve this balance. The idea is to support immunity and other internal healing mechanisms before problems arise.

It is helpful to adopt a “dog-as-ecosystem” approach, where all aspects of their wellbeing are seen as interconnected. A dog’s organs, nervous system, physical health, emotional state and environment continually influence one another. For example, stress can trigger a cascade of responses, such as overstimulating the nervous system, leading to digestive upset or a weakened immune system. Similarly, exposure to toxins might contribute to behavioral changes because the nervous system is inextricably related to the liver’s role in detoxification. Herbs can address these connections and help maintain balance across a dog’s entire ecosystem.

• Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) • Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) • Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) also stimulates bile production, which aids in the digestion of fats and proper stool formation.

• Milk thistle (Silybum marianum). Use milk thistle seed rather than a standardized extract of silymarin, the active ingredient in milk thistle.

• Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica/urens) also provides anti-inflammatory vitamins and minerals.

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) directly impacts the nervous system by reducing stress-induced gastrointestinal discomfort.

Nature Nurture

Along with a daily infusion of herbs and mushrooms in a dog’s diet, spending time in nature will benefit them tremendously.

Whether walking in the woods, playing fetch at the park or lying in the grass, this connection to Earth provides grounding, mental stimulation, physical exercise and emotional nourishment. Feeding our furry best friends natural, calming ingredients and spending time with them outdoors is the ideal recipe for a balanced, happy and healthy life.

Rita Hogan is a clinical canine herbaist with more than 20 years of experience and author of The Herbal Dog: Holistic Canine Herbalism Applications and Practice. Learn more at CanineHerbalist.com.

Because emotional health is closely tied to physical health, calming herbs and mushrooms can help maintain physical balance by reducing inflammation, supporting digestion and detoxification, and enhancing overall organ function. Here are some of the most effective choices.

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Choosing the Right Herbs and Mushrooms

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Calendar of Events Black History Month

Saturday, February 1 Seed Swap CARE’s 11th Annual Seed Exchange – 9am-1pm. Snow date, Feb 8. White Oak Library District, Lockport Branch, 121 E 8th St, Lockport. 815-552-4185.

WhiteOak.LibraryCalendar.com.

Free Energetic Cleansing Session – 10-11am.

For Natural Awakenings readers. Experience the healing potential of the quantum field. Release attachments and experience a renewed sense of peace and joy. Zoom. Register: Total-Life-Alignment.com.

The Great Seed Event – 10am-2pm.

MCC Cafeteria, McHenry County College, 8900 U.S. 14, Crystal Lake. 815-479-7563.

Tinyurl.com/ycyfxcsk.

Sunday, February 2 Candlemas/Imbolc (Wiccan) Groundhog Day World Wetlands Day Social Tea & Video – 12:30pm. Chicago Meditation Center of Self-Realization Fellowship, 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest.

708-366-0140. ChicagoMeditationCenter.org.

Monday, February 3 Qigong Basics & Five Element Qigong – 9am-4pm. Qigong fundamentals explored, explained and discussed. There will also be a Five Elements meditation intertwined in the day. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130.

ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Creating Magnificent Moonlit Spaces for the Evening Garden – 7-8pm. Darien Garden Club meeting. Join us as we welcome horticulturist and author Nina Koziol who will inspire us to create a stunning all-white garden in our backyards. Free. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien.

Tinyurl.com/mre74nxz.

ONLINE: Manifesting With Your Heart – Mondays, Feb 3, 17, Mar 3, 17. 7-9pm.

What would you love to manifest in 2025?

Join Henrietta Atkin, author and intuitive, and learn to successfully manifest your heart’s desires now. Learn the 9 principles of successful creation. $90. Zoom. For more info & to register: 847-299-6535 or HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Tuesday, February 4 Wellness Workshop: The Path to Feeling Good – 6-7:30pm. February's program features a trainer from Chicago Sport and Fitness presenting whole-body physical wellness followed by a discussion from our recreation coordinator on how our preserves can help you achieve it. Free. Sugar Creek Administration Center, 17540 W Laraway Rd, Joliet. Registration required: 815-727-8700 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Winter Sowing – 6-7:30pm. Learn the ins and outs of winter sowing. Follow along step-by-step to create a mini-greenhouse from upcycled household materials.

Choose from a selection of native seeds or bring own to plant. All materials provided. $5. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by Feb 2: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Wednesday, February 5 Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm.

1st Wed. In-person & Zoom. Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main St, Crystal Lake. GreenDrinks.org/IL/Crystal%20Lake.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm.

Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900.

ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, February 6 Intuitive Tarot Readings – 4-8pm. Also Feb 13. With Lisa Maria. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

ONLINE: Practical Self-Care – 7-7:30pm.

Join us for TLC and self-care so you can discover a kinder, calmer, more empowered version of you. With Sarah Karnes. $15-$25 donation. Zoom. Register: Tinyurl.com/59azd3h4.

Friday, February 7 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Saturday, February 8 Essentials of Craniosacral Therapy – Feb 8-9. 9am-4pm. This 2-day course is a practical introduction to the theory and practice of the biodynamics of craniosacral balancing. Learn essential ways to perceive the body’s intrinsic movement dynamics, rhythms and pulsations. 12 CEs. $300. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

ONLINE: Life Mission Exploration – 9:3010am. Personally guided by Sarah Karnes, you will develop a more compassionate and loving relationship with your body, mind and spirit. $15-$25 donation. Zoom.

Register: Tinyurl.com/2w9kcws6.

Conservation@Home: Seed Swap & Plant Exchange – 10am-2pm. Dan Ryan Woods Pavilion, S Western Ave & W 87th St, Chicago. 224-763-4317. fpdcc.com.

Seed Swap: Park District of Franklin Park – 11am-2:30pm. Community Center, 9560 Franklin Ave, Franklin Park. 847-455-2852.

FPParks.org.

What Does Your Face Say About You? – 1-4pm. Using the ancient Chinese Five-Element analysis in the Chinese medicine system, David Birr will evaluate the strength and influence of the 5 elements (fire, water, Earth, wood and metal) on your basic character, unconscious defenses and destiny.

Your facial features have specific meanings which show the presence of the 5 elements. $45/30 mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines.

847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

ONLINE: Bridging Gaps with the Five Elements – 1-5pm. The Chinese 5 elements were first written into medical text over 2,000 yrs ago. Dondi Dahlin, award-winning author of the bestselling book, The Five Elements, will show how using them can bring ease into relationships with more peace and less conflict. 4 CEUs available. $60, $50/10 days advance. Register: InfinityFoundation.org.

ONLINE: Chicago IANDS – 2pm. Support/ study/resource forum for near-death, outof-body and spiritual experiences, losses.

Guest Speaker: Lisa Wilcoxson, NDEr, Spiritual Evidential Medium, Psychic, Mystic, Medium, lost both children. Become a free subscriber to Chicago IANDS by filling in the form online. $20 tax-deductible donation requested (see website). For more info: 847-251-5758 or ChicagoIANDS.org.

Hawaiian Elemental Healings – 2-5pm.

As a recognized Kahu O Mana (Keeper of the Sacred Knowledge of Kahuna Haha), Barbara Petersen works with the elemental qualities of Fire, Water, Air, Earth and Mana that are directed to the physical, energetic, and spiritual bodies. During this process the elements support areas that are strong and build up the energies that are weaker to create harmonious function of your mind, body and spirit. $45/30 mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535.

HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Sunday, February 9 Harms Woods East Workday – 9am-12pm.

Enjoy a beautiful day outdoors and help restore health to our local woodlands. Harms Woods, S Harms Rd, Groves 1 & 2, Morton Grove. GoGreenIllinois.org.

High Vibrational Crystal Class – 2-4pm.

With Janel. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922.

ShopSacredGround.com.

Mercado de Intercambio – 10am-2pm.

Southside Social, 4432 S Ashland Ave, Chicago. PlantChicago.org.

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Monday, February 10

Friday, February 14

Monday, February 17

ONLINE: Activating Ancient Feminine DNA – Mondays, Feb 10-24. 7-8:30pm. As feminine energies continue to evolve, it is imperative for women to intimately connect with the roots of belonging. Join Jacqueline L. Robinson in this 3-session Zoom class and experience clearing, activations, and connection through writing prompts, guided journey, prescribed rituals, and empowered teachings. Crafted for women only. 4.5 CEUs available. $65, $55/10 days advance. InfinityFoundation.org.

Valentine’s Day

President’s Day

Cupping Part One – 10am-5pm. Cupping creates a vacuum to draw out stagnation and toxins and mobilizes the blood, qi and lymph. Learn a variety of cupping techniques addressing the common cold, muscle aches and pains, digestive disorders and irregular menstruation, etc. 6 CEs. $150.

Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Reiki Level 1 – 10am-5pm. During this workshop, you will get attuned to reiki which enables you to become a channel for this healing energy. You will also start a 21-day energetic cleanse that moves through your chakras cleaning and releasing bound energy (including stuck emotions and behavioral patterns). 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130.

ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tuesday, February 11 Green Drinks Libertyville – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues. Like-minded people meet to discuss issues of environmental importance and build awareness. For more info & location: Facebook.com/greendrinkslibertyville or GreenDrinks.org.

Wednesday, February 12 Full Moon, Eagle Moon, Groundhog Moon Gokhale Method Free Workshop – 11am12pm. Workshop on postural health. Free.

Westchester Public Library, 10700 Canterbury St, Westchester. Tinyurl.com/wh38dnwd.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm.

See Feb 5 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Go Green Des Plaines – 7-8:30pm. Ken Schaefer, local artist, naturalist and forest steward will present “Ecology and Art: A Photographic Journey Through Nature.”

Learn how to identify native plants and enjoy a lovely evening in a historic Des Plaines farmhouse in the Forest Preserve. Free.

Hosted by Izaak Walton, 1841 S River Rd, Des Plaines. GoGreenDesPlaines.org.

Thursday, February 13 Intuitive Tarot Readings – 4-8pm. Also Feb 13. With Lisa Maria. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Mocktails at the Museum – 5:30-8pm. Celebrate Galentine’s Day by joining a Forest Preserve District of Will County interpretive naturalist as we make botanical-inspired mocktails. $5. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. Register by Feb 9: 815-722-9301. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Spiritual Beginnings: Your Path to Discover, Awaken, and Build Your Spiritual Foundation – 7-9pm. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922.

ShopSacredGround.com.

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Biofield Tuning – 6-9pm. Enjoy a 30-min chair sound therapy session with Biofield Tuning practitioner, Randa Clark. Using tuning forks, the vibrations of the forks locate distortion (mental, physical and/or emotional) to relax stress held hostage in the body that causes unhealthy havoc. $45.

The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535.

HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Feb 14-16 & 21-23.

7-10pm, Fri; 9:30am-4:30pm, Sat/Sun. 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. $500 plus textbook.

Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Saturday, February 15 Nirvana Day (Buddhism) Free 4 All – 9am-12pm. 3rd Sat. A garage sale where everything is free. Unity Spiritual Center of Woodstock, 225 W Calhoun St, Woodstock. 815-337-3534. UnityWoodstock.org.

Introduction to Myofascial Release – 9am6pm. Work smarter, not harder, during your massage therapy session by learning to incorporate Myofascial Release techniques.

This approach works without lubrication, using intention and patience to provide a gentle, slow, sustained pressure into the fascial restriction barriers. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

ONLINE: Transitions with More Grace and Moxie – 1-1:30pm. With Sarah Karnes.

Change and transition are constants in our life. Join us for a guided meditation and creative exploration that helps you feel more courage, energy and clarity as you move forward. $15-$25 donation. Zoom.

Register: Tinyurl.com/2w9kcws6.

Sunday, February 16 Seated Yoga and Seasonal Sights – 11am12pm. Program includes a 25- to 30-min all-levels seated yoga session and a 25- to 30-min hands-on exploration of the natural world. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by Feb 15: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Monday Meditation at Solstice Sanctuary – 6:30-7:30pm. With Sarah Karnes. All levels welcome. $10-$25 donation. Rolling Oaks Farm, 29211 41st St, Salem, WI. RSVP: Meetup.com/Spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland.

Tuesday, February 18 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, February 19 Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm.

See Feb 5 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

ONLINE: Twilight in the Garden of Hope: Nature as Inspiration – 6:30-7:30pm. Learn from Kathy Ruttenberg, Multidisciplinary artist (sculpture, painting, and animation), about other perspectives on the environment. Free. GoGreenIllinois.org.

Thursday, February 20 Acupuncture & Reiki Stress-Reduction Hour – 5-6:30pm. 3rd Thurs. Curious about acupuncture and/or reiki? We invite you to join us for this informational and experiential event. Discover for yourself the deep relaxation that is possible with these modalities. $10 suggested donation. Calandra Center for Health and Wellness, 830 E Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg. 312-796-3965.

CalandraAcupuncture.com.

Friday, February 21 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Saturday, February 22 ONLINE: Creative Power Hour – 9:30-10am.

Getting your creative juices flowing is vital for your well-being. Experience simple practices for loosening up old ways to connect with your inner aliveness and caring. With Sarah Karnes. $15-$25 donation. 262-7458362. Register: Tinyurl.com/2w9kcws6.

Sustain DuPage Seed Swap – 1-3pm.

Wheaton Public Library, 22 N Cross St, Wheaton. SustainDuPage.com.

Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

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S a y g o o d b y e t o: Constipation / Diarrhea • Gas / Bloating • Poor Sleep Heartburn & Acid Reflux • GERD • Skin Conditions Food Sensitivities • Fatigue • Sore Joints • Headaches Blood Sugar Imbalance • IBS - C / IBS -D

Let’s g et you feeling b ette r.

Digeestive He Dig Health Solutions Reneé S. Barasch , LDH S , Certified Digestive Health Specialist Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

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Aura Energy Scan & Reiki Healing – 2-5pm. Gain deep insights into your energy and emotional well-being with a Healy aura scan and Reiki healing session. Healy is a device held in the palm of your hand that scans your bioenergetic field, detecting imbalances. The session begins with the aura scan. Based on the results, a personal frequency program is presented to balance your energy. Then the reiki session follows to release stuck energies and reset mind, body and spirit. $45/30 mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535.

HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Shamanic Drumming – 6:30-8pm. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights.

847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Sunday, February 23 Astral Energy Readings – 2-5:30pm. With Richard and Cheryl Popp, professional clairvoyants. While you are lying on a massage table, they will be going into a semi-sleep trance and scanning your body and energy systems looking for, and helping clear, stuck and charged energy. $80. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535.

HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Cozy Cabin Crochet for Wildlife – 5:307:30pm. Use your crochet skills to create small nests that will be utilized by local wildlife rehabilitation centers. A naturalist will guide you through the crochet pattern process. Not an instructional crocheting course. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. Register by Feb 21: 815-727-8700 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Monday, February 24 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Tuesday, February 25 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, February 26

Thursday, February 27

SAVE THE DATE

World Polar Bear Day

Friday, February 28 New Moon Women’s Circle – 7-8:30pm. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights.

847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

plan ahead Saturday, March 1

SAVE THE DATE

Sunday, March 2

Specialty Growers Intensive Cut Flower Production Mar 1-2. 9am-4:30pm

SAVE THE DATE

Gain practical skills in growing and marketing cut flowers, with presentations on such topics as seed starting, transplants, field preparation and harvesting. Sessions will also explore varietal selection, record keeping, market differentiation and floral design. $345.

The Center for Agrarian Learning at McHenry County College 8900 U.S. 14, MCC Cafeteria, Crystal Lake Register by Feb 21 Tinyurl.com/mwv37y83

Meet fellow plant lovers, share gardening tips, and expand your plant collection.

Bring your extra vegetable, annual and native plant seeds, houseplant cuttings, or potted plants to exchange with others, and discover new varieties to add to your indoor or outdoor garden. Free.

Indian Prairie Public Library 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien

Tuesday, March 4

Wild Things Conference 2025 9am-5pm Conference invites nature enthusiasts from across Illinois and beyond to learn about the flora, fauna and natural history of the Prairie State. Join a community of thousands of volunteers, conservationists and natural resource professionals.

WildThingsCommunity.org

IPPL/DGC Seed & Houseplant Exchange 1:30-3:30pm

Tinyurl.com/6vjdwtbp

SAVE THE DATE

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont

Body Mind Spirit Expo Weekend Mar 1-2. 10am-7pm, Sat; 10am-6pm, Sun Explore some of the nation’s finest psychics and mediums and the best in alternative and natural health, wellness tools, products and resources, expand their insights and take in learning sessions and presentations featuring psychics, experts and holistic practitioners at the top of their fields. $15.

Midwest Conference Center 401 W Lake St, Chicago (Northlake) BMSE.net

SAVE THE DATE Kiss the Ground Screening 7pm To help spread awareness for Soil Health Week.

La Grange Park Public Library 555 N La Grange Rd, La Grange Park GoGreenIllinois.org LPLibrary.org

Maha Shivaratri (Hinduism) Building a Bird-Friendly Backyard Webinar – 12-1pm. Learn the do’s and don’ts for birdhouses and bird feeders. Find out which plants to grow to support your favorite feathered friends all the way from hatchlings to adults. Free. Zoom.

Registration required: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm.

See Feb 5 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Healing the Healers – 6-8pm. Learn energy protection, self-care strategies, and tools to avoid burnout as a healer. Perfect for all experience levels, with themes ranging from centering techniques to sound healing. Centering: Clearing and Harmonizing Your Energy. $45/class. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922.

ShopSacredGround.com.

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Need a place to advertise or post your Events, Seminars or Markets?

Join the CALENDAR next month!

Find and Post Events at

NAChicago.com

Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Saturday, March 8

SAVE THE DATE Extension Master Gardener Seed Expo 10am-2pm College of Lake County 19351 W Washington St, Grayslake Facebook.com/events/581522687659879

Sunday, March 16

SAVE THE DATE Clothing and Textile Take Back 11am-2pm With Go Green LaGrange.

St. Michael’s Lutheran Church Parking lot 500 E 31st St, La Grange Park GoGreenLaGrange.org

Saturday, March 22

SAVE THE DATE Wellness Trends Healthy Living Expo: Targi Zdrowego Stylu Zycia Mar 22-23. 10am-5pm Expo features expert-led seminars, guidance on healthy living and the latest trends in wellness. It’s also an excellent networking opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas and learn about wellness products.

Embassy Suites by Hilton 1939 N Meacham Rd, Schaumburg 773-339-2928 Facebook.com/TargiZdrowia2022

Friday, May 23

SAVE THE DATE

Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference Weekend – May 23-25 Theme: Embracing Generosity, Care and Creativity. Keynote speakers: Robin Wall Kimmerer, PhD, a leading voice in indigenous plant knowledge; Cornelia Cho, MD, a proponent of integrative medicine; and Gail Faith Edwards, an expert herbalist and author. Includes 100 workshops, plant walks and preconference immersions designed for both novice and seasoned herbalists.

Camp Helen Brachman, Almond, WI MidwestWomensHerbal.com

WIN A FREE WEEKEND PASS

Ongoing Events

Daily 1:1 Private Yoga Tune Up Instruction – Roll Model Method, Mental Performance and Functional Movement Screening. Virtual or In-Person (Wheaton or Chicago).

JulieMackey.com.

Apprentice Deals – Thru Feb. $65 facials with Keely and/or complimentary cut with color service. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Health Clarified Special – Thru Feb. Receive a 20% discount on their Exercise With Oxygen Therapy (EWOT) 12-pack. EWOT is a powerful way to enhance cardiovascular health. 2165A Shermer Rd, Northbrook.

224-344-8668. HealthClarifiedNow.com.

Healing Music Sessions – 1-6pm, Sat/Sun; 9am-6pm, Mon-Thurs. Life Rhythms helps those in assisted living homes, memory loss facilities and private residences participate in making and sharing music on an individual and group level 7 days a week.

The 1-hr sessions, inclusive of all instruments, improve hand-eye coordination, stimulate cognitive abilities and promote wellness. LifeRhythmsInc.com.

Conversations with Calvin: We the Species Matthew Hazen Human Consciousness Support – 7pm. Featuring Matthew Hazen, the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. youtu.be/Uk_MqZ6QMJw?si=HXk0YFiZ2dnDqRdX. Naturally Purifying and Supercharging Your Body Podcast – 7-7:45pm.

Matthew Hazen is the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. buzzsprout. com/1206776/14236700.

Sunday Chicago Meditation Center of Self-Realization Fellowship Services – 9am, Energization Exercises; Kirtan held the 4th Sun, 9-10:40am; 9:30-10:40am, Yoga Meditation; 11am-12pm, Reading Service. 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest. 708-366-0140.

ChicagoMeditationCenter.org.

Musical Brunch – 11am-2pm. Featuring local talents. Madame Zuzu’s, 1876 1st St, Highland Park. LifeRhythmsInc.com.

Free Aura Reading – 10:30-11:45am. Also Sat, 11:15am-12:15pm. Learn more about your chakra energy system and manifest your dreams. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642.

BodyNBrain.com/northbrook.

NAChicago.com/2025herbalticket Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

Live Music at The Fat Shallot – 3-6pm. $10 suggested donation. The Fat Shallot, 2902 Central St, Evanston. LifeRhythmsInc.com.

Monday Healing Touch Sessions – Also Wed. With Tara. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Meditation at Solstice Sanctuary – 6:307:30pm. 4th Mon. With Sarah Karnes, certified life changes coach for 25 yrs. Dress for the barn and warmly. Come early to make a cup of tea. Love offerings to Solstice Sanctuary. Solstice Sanctuary, 29211 41st St, Salem, WI. SolsticeSanctuary.org.

Open Level Yoga – 7:30-9pm. With Agnieszka Poniedzialki. In Polish and English. $20. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370.

NSHealing.com.

Tuesday Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Massage) – Also Thurs. With Kasia. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Cultivating Guts Podcast: New Episode Release – 9am. Tiffany Hinton’s podcast where we discuss gardening, homesteading, gut health, following our intuition, herbalism and functional medicine to create a life of joy and beauty. Listen on Spotify, YouTube and iTunes. Free.

Tinyurl.com/CultivatingG. Tummy Whisperer Podcast – 1:30pm.

With Renee Barasch. Listeners can hear her speak live on Apple, Spotify and Facebook, or listen to the podcast at any time. Episode 1, “The Importance of Gut Health: Exploring the World of Digestive Wellness,” is available for 24/7 streaming. For more info: 847-207-2034 or DigestiveHealthSolutions.com.

Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes – 5pm. Also Thurs. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery.

Dinner With the Doctors: Health Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. 2nd & 4th Tues. New to our practice and wanting to see if we are the right fit? Returning patient wanting to understand more deeply what you’ve been experiencing? Enjoy demonstrations and time for Q+A with the docs to learn and experience how they work. Free dinner provided; RSVP required in order for food to be prepared. Free. Be Optimal Holistic Health Center, 5225 Old Orchard Rd, Ste 31, Skokie.

847-486-8000. BeOptimal.com.

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Group Silent Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm & 7:35-8:35pm. Silent group meditation in a quiet, secular space that welcomes all walks of life. The center is our labor of love and your presence is deeply appreciated as we share an hour of silence together. Optional donation. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling.

224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Community Meditation – 7-8pm. Doors close at 7:05pm. Different topics each week. Facilitator changes weekly. Walkins welcome. Love donation. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights.

847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Monthly Women’s Circle – 7:30-9pm. 1st Tues. A monthly gathering to celebrate the Sacred Feminine, to unite in sisterhood and community. We create a safe circle of compassion, healing and joy. Where we open our hearts to life and one another, share anything that needs to be shared, provide generous listening to our sisters, meditate, sing, dance, and create community and friendships. Free; graciously accepting donations. RSVP preferred but not required. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-430-3115.

NSHealing.com.

Calling Athletes – 8-8:55pm. Improve mental conditioning and mobility with meditation and Roll Model Method (myofascial release) with Julie Mackey, E-RYT 500 and Mental Performance Coach. $25/ class. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Registration required: 630-349-2581. JulieMackey.com.

Wednesday Farm on Ogden Market – 11am-5pm. WedSat. Indoor year-round market. 3555 W Ogden Ave, Chicago. ChicagoBotanic.org/ urbanagriculture/farm_on_ogden.

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm.

Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900.

ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Open Level Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Also Sat, 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. nshealing.com.

click on

nachicago.com

Thursday What Do You Like to Eat? – 8am-5pm.

Persons who live in Chicagoland, ages 20-79 years who can be counted as members of 13 cultural communities, are asked to meet with a researcher for both a 1-to1 interview and a survey on what they like to eat. The researcher will meet you in your community. Total time will not exceed one hour. Free. For details, Carey: PayneWellnessCenter.abmp.com.

Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes – 5pm. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton.

Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery.

Community Healing Circle – 6pm. All welcome. Opens with a heart resonance meditation followed by reading each intention aloud while others practice focused silence. Closes with a restorative exercise to release, regenerate and renew. Free. Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 224-735-2355.

PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com.

Shiatsu Student Clinic – 7 & 8pm. At our popular Advanced Student Clinic, clients can receive a 45-min session from an advanced Zen Shiatsu student. Sessions are performed in a group setting with instructor observation. Availability limited; call for appointments! Sessions must be paid in advance.

Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston.

847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Friday AstroAshtanga – 8-9:15am. Do you love strength, stretching and astrology? Try this strong physical and energetic practice. $25.

Kaizen House, 1321 Emerson St, Evanston.

KaizenHouse.org.

Saturday Green City Market: Avondale – 8am-1pm.

Thru Mar 22. 3031 N Rockwell St, Chicago.

GreenCityMarket.org.

Open Level Yoga – 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. nshealing.com.

Slow Flow Yoga – 10am. With Rebecca. Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary and “The Nest,” 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560.

AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Winter Ravinia Farmers Market – Thru Apr 26. 10am-2pm. Come together this winter to celebrate local food, artisan products and local, sustainable products. Wayfarer Theaters, 1850 2nd St, Highland Park.

RaviniaFarmersMarket.com.

Free Aura Reading – 11:15am-12:15pm.

See Sun listing. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642.

BodyNBrain.com/northbrook.

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Classifieds Classifieds can help you sell goods and services, and even attract employees for your business.

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.

Books THE FREE SPIRIT: NOT A RELIGION – “God Heals” chapter heading examples: “How can we open ourselves to the source of healing power?” and “The Mastery of thoughts is the mastery of life.” 844-576-0937.

Gabriele-Publishing-House.com.

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

For Rent/ Space Available JAPANESE DECOR STUDIO IN ELK GROVE VILLAGE – Clean and currently available for hourly rental; classes or clients. Waterfall, fireplace, kitchenette.

Close to major expressways. 847-593-6390.

SPACE AVAILABLE – In existing wellness center near Rte. 12 in Fox Lake for a complementary practitioner, acupuncturist, NP who does IVs, regenerative modalities, etc. $500/mon. Betty: 847-204-3090.

SPACE AVAILABLE FOR A PRACTITIONER – Psychologist, massage therapist, etc., to sublet my office suite (no lease required) in Park Ridge on NW Highway. $350/mo. Kay: 847-529-5545.

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

Natural Supplements ORGANIC HERBAL TEAS – Targeted herbal teas for the pancreas, lymph, liver, kidneys, prostate, lungs, heart and more. Samples available. 954-459-1134.

EarthSanaStore.com/tea.

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

Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

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

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine CALANDRA CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT 830 E. Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg 312-796-3965 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.

NIRVANA ACUPUNCTURE AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Lana Moshkovich, LAc, ND, MSOM 707 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 125, Deerfield 60015 847-715-9044 NirvanaNaturopathics.com We specialize in resolving chronic pain including Fibromyalgia and Peripheral Neuropathy; severe chronic allergies for adults and children; fertility; autoimmune conditions; anxiety/depression; cosmetic acupuncture (anti-aging). To learn more about our clinic you can follow us on our YouTube channel: Dr.Lana@NirvanaAIM and Instagram: @nirvanaacu. Major insurance carriers accepted. Call 847-7159044 to schedule your consultation so we can help you feel your best!

Want a best friend?

Bodywork GOKHALE METHOD Aurelia Vaicekauskas Chicago, Westchester & Virtual 773-599-0751 GokhaleMethod.com/biography/ Aurelia_Vaicekauskas# Experience lasting relief from back pain with the Gokhale Method. Our unique approach teaches you to sit, stand, and move effortlessly, reclaiming the pain-free body you were born with. Most students feel relief after the first lesson. Transform everyday activities into opportunities to strengthen and stretch naturally. See ad on page 25.

HEALTH CLARIFIED Dr. Kimberly Henderson, DC 2165A Shermer Rd, Northbrook 60062 224-344-8668 • HealthClarified.com We take wellness to a deep level by combining alternative medicine modalities aimed at removing the obstacles that get in the way of your body's ability to heal. Therapies include red light, SoftWave and BrainTap; plus comprehensive bodywork and exercises, functional medicine, HBOT, Lymphatic Enhancement, EWOT, PEMF, footbaths, holistic skincare treatments and Synchronicity Wave System. See ad on page 13.

NATIONAL LYMPHATIC CENTERS Sharon M Vogel, Founder, Board Certified LMT, CLT, BCTMB, MFR 5002a Main St, Downers Grove 7 N Grant St, Hinsdale 3100 Theodore St, Ste 202, Joliet 630-241-4100 • Lymphatics.net The CLT-LMT staff at all 3 locations of NLC offers 70-min The Vogel Method of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Medical Massage and VMLD to those with swelling, detox, Lyme, mold, environmental, oncology, post-surgical and lymphedema. First-visit discount, regular follow-up visits and discount series packages of 5 or 10 available.

Complimentary phone consultations.

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

Chronic Stress & Pain Management TOUCH OF SERENITY THERAPY, PLLC Tracy Schnabel, OTR/L, Reiki Master, Myofascial Release Certified Provider 1240 Iroquois Ave, Ste 500, Naperville 60563 708-690-9973 TouchOfSerenityTherapy.com Experience holistic healing treatments designed for energetically sensitive individuals with chronic conditions. Our comprehensive approach includes John Barnes Myofascial Release, reiki and more, targeting emotional traumas. Start your healing journey and reconnect with purpose through our specialized services. Start with a free 15-min consultation to discover how we can help.

Community & Practitioner Hubs AWAKE: ONENESS TRIBE Suburban Chicagoland AwakeOnenessTribe.org A nonprofit hub where seekers in the local community can come together, be heard, be seen, and be valued.

AWAKE is a place where people can communicate freely, without fear of judgment, and participate in events to improve all aspects of health: physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual. AWAKE acknowledges the value of being part of an open-minded community of people who are eager to learn and grow together.

Volunteers@PawsChicago.org

PAWSCHICAGO.org Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

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VIBES ALLIANCE Vibration, intuition, body, energy, soul 224-735-2355 Info@PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com Launched by Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary founder Virginia Gullo-Ciaccio, a retail and holistic center in downtown Arlington Heights. The VIBES ALLIANCE welcomes practitioners from all modalities and our goal is to connect practitioners in ways for all to collaborate and network together. The VIBES ALLIANCE is committed to offering our community a comprehensive and balanced holistic health approach to healing the body, mind and soul.

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.

Functional Medicine DR. ALLA ARUTCHEVA, MD, PHD, ND Antalee Wellness 1352 Patriot Blvd, Glenview 60026 847-486-1130 • AntaleeHolistic.com If you are seeking integrative and natural approach to your whole-body health, Dr. Arutcheva will use her extensive knowledge, training and experience to work with you to create a personalized plan to prevent and overcome illness based on her strategy of health screening tests, state-of-the-art technology and the best natural supplements. These methods accelerate your ways to optimum health and prevent the development of serious chronic diseases.

INTEGRAL MED 340 W Butterfield Rd, Ste 3C, Elmhurst 60126 847-840-1806 • IntegralMed.us Integral Med is a multidisciplinary medical practice that specializes in treating chronic health conditions by blending natural approaches and biohacking technologies. We help conditions such as fatigue, hormone imbalances, toxin removal, metabolism dysfunctions, gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases and much more. Cutting edge wellness therapies include HOCATT Sauna, Superhuman Protocol, Vibroacoustic Electromagnetic therapy, Ballancer Pro Lymphatic Suit, Acupuncture, Thermography and much more. See ad on page 33.

Holistic & Airway Dentistry

Education CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN School of Pharmacy CUW.edu/NPS Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference! Discover your future in Natural Product Sciences with our flexible graduate programs.

Choose from a 30-credit online master’s degree or a 12-credit graduate certificate, both designed to fit your life and goals.

Specialize in medical cannabis or nutraceuticals, and prepare for exciting roles in healthcare, pharmacy, research and development, manufacturing, business and beyond. See ad on page 35.

THE CENTER FOR DENTAL HEALING Dr. Alla Aver, DDS & Dr. Irina Ganzman, DMD 2400 Ravine Way, Ste 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.

INTEGRATIVE DENTAL HEALTH 87 S McLean Blvd, South Elgin 60177 847-737-9109 IDH4U.com Offering the highest quality holistic dental care possible for total body health. From biocompatible materials, to eliminating disease in the mouth and improving sleep quality, you can expect more than just a dental office.

As Safe Cutting-Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (S.M.A.R.T.) certified providers, we use the strictest protocols to protect you from the neurotoxic effects of mercury fillings.

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.

SIMONA BAREKET, DDS HP SMILES DENTAL 489 Laurel Ave, Highland Park 60035 847-432-6501 HPSmilesDental.com We are a holistic dental team focused on whole-person wellness rather than just your teeth. Dr. Simona works with empathy, care and a gentle touch.

Services include cleanings and comprehensive exams, material biocompatibility testing, safe amalgam removal, ozone therapy, BPA-free restorations and non-metal crowns and implants.

Experiencing the present purely is being emptied and hollow; you catch grace as a man fills his cup under a waterfall.

—Annie Dillard

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Chicago

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Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

WRIGLEYVILLE DENTAL 3256 N Ashland, Chicago 60657 773-975-6666 • WrigleyvilleDental.com Chicago’s premier biological holistic dentists. Offering the latest technology, we provide ozone, lasers, same-daycrowns and BPA/fluoride-free nontoxic products. Several dentists on staff with unique specialties provide safe amalgam removal, PRF facials, orthodontics, TMJ, sleep/airway, children’s dentistry and countless other treatments. One home for all your dental needs. 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-of-the-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.

Integrative Psychotherapy ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT Clinical Director, Inner Balance 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.

Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth 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 14.

INFINITY FOUNDATION 1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park 60035 847-831-8828 • InfinityFoundation.org Courses live in-person, hybrid, or on Zoom, some are recorded to watch later.

CEUs available. Healing Angels Guided Meditation, live, Feb 21.

Recognizing Signs from the Other Side with Thomas John, live in-person and on Zoom, hybrid, Feb 22. Call for free course guide.

Martial Arts AMERICAN TIGER KARATE ACADEMY 1031 Bonaventure Dr, Elk Grove Village 60007 847-593-6390 AmericanTigerKarate.org Traditional Japanese Martial Arts since 1995. Authentic Shotokan Karate and Okinawan Kobudo, excellent for self defense but also connecting mind, body and spirit. Training exercises performed with mindfulness and proper breathing improve neuroplasticity while building quick reflexes, stance stability, balance and coordination.

Food & Nutrition Coming in March

Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

Media WCPT 820 AM Streaming live: HeartlandSignal.com/wcpt820 Chicago’s Progressive Talk is a whole lot more than just a radio station.

It is a community of several hundred thousand people who are sustainably inclined, environmentally responsible, community conscious and socially engaged. Monday through Friday the program lineup features national show hosts who broadcast from various cities across America. From the very political, to the very serious, to almost-over-the-line edgy, they talk about what matters to you. On the weekends, specialty shows cover Chicago politics and much more. Listen on the radio or tune in online at HeartlandSignal.com/ wcpt820. See ad on page 47.

Meditation & Spiritual Centers CHICAGO MEDITATION CENTER OF SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest 60305 ChicagoMeditationCenter.org/ srflessons.org Experience the power of spiritual community. All are welcome to join weekly inspirational services with yoga meditation each Sunday. Paramahansa Yogananda (18931952) founded Self-Realization Fellowship in 1920 to make available the universal teachings of Kriya Yoga, a sacred spiritual science originating millennia ago in India. See ad on page 35.

Medium, Psychic & Chakra CHAKRA STUDIO In-person and remote 474 Central Ave, Ste. 206, Highland Park 60035 847-744-3060 | 219-677-1629 PsychicChakraStudioIL.com Let us be the first step on your journey to healing, spiritual awareness and emotional freedom.

Explore spiritual healing and find clarity through chakra balancing, energy healing, tarot, sound and light therapies, readings and life coaching. Shop our boutique for curated crystals, candles, oils and other healing tools to enhance your energetic balance and well-being. See ad on page 24.

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PSYCHIC READINGS GLENVIEW 2834 Golf Rd, Glenview 60025 847-470-0049 PsychicsReadingsGlenview.com

Reflexology

Skeletal Strengthening

JASMIN REFLEXOLOGY 773-979-5351 JJahal@hotmail.com JasminReflexology.com

OSTEOSTRONG 126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091 224-408-2369 195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195 224-208-8616 OsteoStrong.me

Discover the transformative power of psychic healing. In one session, Psychic Sarah can unlock your dormant healing energy and guide you towards a path of true rejuvenation and self-discovery. 30+ years’ experience in psychic, tarot and astrology readings, chakra balancing and spiritual counsel. New clients save 50% on first visit. See ad on page 11.

Reflexology is a wellness protocol that stimulates the nervous system by applying precise, alternating pressure to the feet or hands. It helps your body relieve stress, improve sleep, lower blood pressure, balance hormones and reduce chronic pain. Jasmin is nationally certified and a recognized educator. Call for a free consultation.

Men’s Health & Wellness

Reiki and Energy Medicine

CHICAGO MALE CLINIC Jerry Garcia, PA-C 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago 60646 773-414-9900 • ChicagoMaleClinic.com Chicago Male Clinic (CMC) is a holistic health and wellness center for men providing a natural integrated approach to improving men’s sexual health. CMC offers therapeutic massage, exercise and stretch therapy, men’s yoga classes, patient coaches and trainers. CMC offers a natural approach to treating erectile difficulties (ED) with its Acoustic Wave Therapy. Call for your complimentary, in-person consultation (valued at $225.). Book your first appointment at ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 15.

Natural Networking with power ...

HEALING WITH SARA MAE Reiki Master Teacher Hinsdale and Joliet HealingWithSaraMae.com Reiki sessions, classes, mentorship and more to serve you on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.

Sessions available worldwide remotely and in-person. Book your session or consult at HealingWithSaraMae.com.

JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST Joann Lysiak Gems 847-596-0274 Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com JoannLysiakGems.com Visit the online store for high vibration gemstones and handcrafted jewelry with intention.

Benefit from the gemstone energy properties to attract love, abun-dance or protect your energy from EMFs. Let me intuitively find the perfect gemstones for your needs or fine tune your energy to thrive.

connecting readers to the leaders in health care and green living in our community!

OsteoStrong is an Integrative Health and Wellness Center with a focus on musculoskeletal strengthening. The 4-device circuit takes only minutes once per week to complete. Under the direction of a skilled technician, users engage in a safe, controlled, movement that results in a stimulus to the central nervous system triggering osteogenesis or new bone growth. See ad on page 27.

Tree Care BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Serving Chicagoland 877-227-8538 • Bartlett.com Expert tree care for 117 years and growing.

Specializing in pruning, fertilization, cabling and bracing, insect and disease management, tree inspections, storm damage repair, lightning protection and removals.

Visit our website to schedule your complimentary appointment with a Bartlett Arborist Representative. We’re here for every tree.

See ad on page 21.

Wellness Centers INSPIRE YOGA AND WELLNESS 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village 60007 312-593-4366 InspireYogaWellness.com At our wellness sanctuary, we focus on healing rather than just treating symptoms. We dig deep to find the root cause of your issues and look at all four aspects of health: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. We offer personalized health coaching, iridology, yoga, meditation, infrared sauna and more. See profile on page 9.

The Natural Awakenings Community Resource Guide is our monthly directory of community businesses and practitioners that becomes a go-to resource for readers.

Join us in March!

One of the most powerful uses of a Community Resource Guide listing is the exposure the listing brings you each and every month for your product or service.

847-858-3697 Peggy@NAChicago.com

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Chicago

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Richard Chew 6 AM

Stephanie Miller 8 AM

Thom Hartmann 11 AM

Joan Esposito 2 PM

Patti Vasquez 5 PM

Listen to Chicago’s Progressive Talk Listen online and read more at HeartlandSignal.com Subscribe to our newsletter at TheLede.HeartlandSignal.com For Advertising Sales contact Steve Lessman Phone: (847) 828-4474 Email: slessman@WCPT820.com Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

February 2025

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BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU 2-Weekend Intensive

Feb 14-16 and 21-23 Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

10-Week Sessions

Mar 27 - May 29, Thursdays 7-10pm Mar 25 - May 27, Tuesdays 10am-1pm zenshiatsu.edu/ce/beginning_zen_shiatsu/

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

www.zenshiatsu.edu 818 Lake Street, Evanston, IL Approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education