July 2025 Natural Awakenings Chicago Magazine by Natural Awakenings Chicago magazine

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© 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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Some of my favorite summer memories go back to time spent at my grandparents’ house adjacent to a small lake in northeast Illinois, where we stayed outside most of the day until it got too dark or too buggy. A beautiful apple tree stood between the house and garage, its arching branches holding a simple swing my grandpa had made, tied to a sturdy limb with thick rope and consisting of a smooth wooden board that squeaked with every swing.

By late July, the tree produced an abundance of early apples. I’ve since determined they were likely Lodi—a variety introduced in the ‘20s and among the first to ripen in the Midwest. Today, we see Michigan Lodi apples turn up at farmers markets in late July. Small, pale green and tart, they have soft flesh and paper-thin skins—perfect for applesauce or pie. As a kid, I just knew they made a delicious pie. Gramps used a long-handled basket picker to reach the branches, and my mom and I gathered the windfalls on the lawn. We filled bushel baskets during apple season, saving the best for pies and the rest for sauce.

We'd spread newspaper on the kitchen table, pile the apples in the center and get to work. With their help, I mastered the art of using a paring knife to peel and slice the apples with a few quick turns of my hand. My grandma rolled out homemade crusts on the counter and carefully placed them into Pyrex pie dishes. Then she mixed the apples in an old green bowl with sugar, tapioca, nutmeg and cinnamon; piled the mixture into the crusts; dotted with butter; added the top crust; crimped the edges; and cut steam vents. Two pies typically went into their ‘70s Coppertone Brown range-oven, and soon the house was filled with the scent of bubbling apple pie. In a day or two, the pies were devoured by family and friends, and we’d start the process again.

Summer is all about being present—moving with the season’s rhythm, finding joy in simple pleasures and quiet adventures, whether outdoors or in the kitchen. It’s a season that invites us to slow down and appreciate the moments that matter. In this month’s issue, we explore how you don’t need to take a long or expensive trip to get away and recharge. In our feature story, “The Microadventure Mindset,” we offer inspiration for finding simple, restorative getaways close to home. Sheryl DeVore introduces us to some of the local species of native bees you might be lucky enough to spot on your summer adventures, and arborist M.D. Skeet shares his expert advice on how to care for your backyard trees over a hot Chicago summer.

In our Conscious Eating section, we highlight easy, energizing breakfasts that help sustain you through active days. Local Food Forum's Bob Benenson offers insights on the more than 100 Chicago area farmers markets waiting to be explored, and Illinois Farmers Market Association Executive Director Janie Maxwell shares a tempting recipe that puts this month’s local berries to good use. And in our Healing Ways department, we present some natural options for healthy sun protection, along with after-sun care tips.

I encourage you to find time to get outside every day and take in all the natural world has to offer this month. Go for a walk in a park or forest preserve, look for native bees in a local garden, tend your tomato plants, listen for crickets on a warm evening, watch the leaves and sunlight create shifting patterns on the grass, and observe local backyard wildlife going about their summer routines. And don’t forget to watch for the full moon rise on the 10th. We have long days and lingering twilights in which to soak up the summer vibe, and I hope you can make the most of them.

Wherever this month takes you, have a safe, fun and memorable July!

Peggy Malecki

Photo by Peggy Malecki

Advertising & Submissions

18 Raptors Rebound

20 Native Bees Support Vegetable and Flower Gardens in Chicago Region

22 Tree Care Tips

24 The Microadventure Mindset

28 Sun-Kissed, Not Stressed

30 Healing From the Ground Up

32 Protein-Forward Breakfasts

34 Fresh, Local and Growing Farmers Markets Fuel a Regional Revival

38 The New Cycle of Innovation

40 Julian Hoffman

42 Why Common Sensitivity Fixes Often Fail for Dogs

44 Abandoning Routine and Courting Delight

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.

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Health Clarified Welcomes Dr. Quinn With July SoftWave Therapy Special

Health Clarified, in Northbrook, has added Dr. Colin Quinn to its team as a doctor of chiropractic and SoftWave Therapy technician. Quinn leads SoftWave Therapy sessions at the clinic, using this noninvasive regenerative treatment to help patients reduce pain, restore mobility and accelerate healing. To celebrate his arrival, all SoftWave Therapy appointments with him are only $80 during July (regularly $150).

Quinn is a recent graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic with advanced training in Thompson, diversified and the Activator Method techniques. His expertise spans both passive and active care approaches, with a strong foundation in whole-body wellness and nutrition.

His journey into holistic care began with a degree in environmental health from Illinois State University, followed by public health roles as a sanitarian and arborist. These experiences deepened his commitment to preventive care and community well-being—values that continue to shape his clinical approach.

Outside of the clinic, Quinn is a dedicated athlete and lifelong learner, with interests in martial arts, triathlons and natural medicine.

Location: 2165 Shermer Rd., Ste. A, Northbrook. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668 or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com See ads on pages 15 and 27, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Highland Park Garden Tour Showcases Native Plants in Home Landscapes

Go Green Highland Park will host a free Native Plant Garden Tour in Highland Park from noon to 4 p.m. on July 12, with a rain date of July 13. The self-guided tour features five residential gardens that showcase the beauty, resilience and functionality of native plants.

Each site highlights different applications, including how native plants can succeed in shady yards, reduce water runoff in floodprone areas and blend seamlessly with traditional cultivar gardens. The tour also showcases intentional landscape designs and examples of native plants growing along parkways.

The tour is ideal for gardeners, homeowners and anyone else interested in sustainable landscaping. Participants will receive a digital map of the garden locations several days before the tour. The event offers a firsthand look at how native plants can enhance curb appeal while benefiting the environment.

For more information or to register (required), visit Shorturl.at/oh3ES.

Soul Mates and Twin Souls: Traveling Companions on the Road to Enlightenment

The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, in Des Plaines, will host Joanne DiMaggio, MA, CHt, for a special program from 1 to 4 p.m. on July 26. A longtime speaker with the Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.), DiMaggio has spent more than 35 years researching reincarnation.

The program will explore the roles of soul mates, “cell mates” and twin souls. While soul mates are often seen as romantic partners, they can also include other family members, friends or colleagues. In contrast, cell mates are soul connections that may keep us emotionally stuck or hinder growth. Twin souls are spiritual companions working alongside us toward a shared purpose.

Attendees will also hear stories from 10 pastlife research volunteers about the soul-level relationships that shaped their journeys. The program concludes with a group pastlife regression to help participants identify the key companions in their own spiritual evolution.

Location: 259 E. Central Rd., Des Plaines. For more information or to register, visit HolisticCenterChicago.com. See ad on page 12, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Dr. Colin Quinn

Joanne DiMaggio, MA, CHt

Photo courtesy Health Clarified

Photo courtesy Edgar Cayce Holistic Center

“ Your gut health has a direct effect on how you feel.” says Reneé Barasch of Digestive Health Solutions. “Understand the struggles of your own microbiome, and create a plan to restore balance and feel better.”

Reneé’s practice is now offering BiomeFx Microbiome Testing ; a powerful tool to help reveal what’s going on in your gut. This DNA test identifies helpful and harmful microbes, and provides insights to improve digestion, energy, and support overall well-being.

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Kit pinpoints imbalances linked to bloating, acid reflux, constipation, fatigue, anxiety, skin concerns, and more. This results in personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance –big steps toward lasting health. Reneé offers phone consultations that make expert support easy to achieve.

D ig e s t ive

Experience Wellness at the Midwest’s Premier Holistic Health Fair

The Holistic Health Fair returns to Naperville on July 27, offering a full day of healing, inspiration and connection. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marriott, attendees can explore one of the Midwest’s leading body-mind-spirit events.

Founded in 2019 by wellness advocate Debra Smith-Andersen, the fair has grown to host more than eight events annually across Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan. This event features a diverse array of integrative medicine, natural living and metaphysical offerings, including massage, herbal remedies, nutrition, intuitive readings, alternative therapies, sound and energy healing, crystals and skin care.

Admission includes access to expert presentations throughout the day and opportunities to connect with local practitioners, vendors and fellow wellness seekers.

For businesses and healers, the Holistic Health Fair offers an affordable, welcoming platform to showcase their work, with reasonable booth fees, professional marketing and a community-focused atmosphere.

Location: 1801 N. Naper Blvd., Naperville. For more information, to purchase tickets or to apply to exhibit, visit HolisticHealthFair.org See ad on page 13 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Step Into Sacred Ground’s New Home on West Campbell Street

Sacred Ground, a holistic center and curated retail space for wellness and energy-based living, will relocate to 160 West Campbell Street in Arlington Heights on August 1—just caddy-corner to the west of the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. Known for its premium crystals, A+ quality minerals, candles, incense and natural remedies, Sacred Ground will now unite its store and healing services under one roof for the first time.

The new location, formerly home to The Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary, will host a grand opening celebration on August 8, aligning with the spiritually significant Lion’s Gate Portal.

“We’re thrilled to join the vibrant energy of Campbell Street,” says owner Deneene Florino. “Being on the west end of the al fresco dining district and near the theater makes it an ideal new home.”

With its calming atmosphere and deeply intentional offerings, Sacred Ground has become a trusted space for spiritual growth, self-care and community connection. Services include reiki, chakra balancing, quantum healing, intuitive readings, sound healing and other energy-based modalities.

“Our dream was to create a sacred space,” adds Florino. “Now, it all comes together.”

For more information, visit ShopSacredGround.com. See ad on this page and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Volunteers Needed for November McHenry County Repair Fair

Following the success of the first-ever Repair Fair in McHenry County in April—where community members came together to practice more conscious consumerism—organizers are seeking volunteers for the next event. This fall’s fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 1 at McHenry County College during the annual Green Living Expo on the college campus in Crystal Lake.

Volunteers of all repair skill levels are welcome, from novice hobbyists to experienced technicians. This year’s fair aims to expand repair services to include jewelry, eyeglasses and, potentially, musical instruments, alongside returning offerings such as bicycle, small appliance, clock, fabric and lamp repairs. Organizers also welcome volunteers with other repair skills that wish to contribute.

Location: 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14, Crystal Lake. Those interested in volunteering or seeking more information can email Kim or Ashley at KHankins@McHenry.edu See ad on page 11 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

ParamahansaYogananda author of Autobiography of a Yogi

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Becky’s Healing Touch Brings Massage, Sound and Reiki to Wheaton

Becky’s Healing Touch and Sound is now open and welcoming clients to experience personalized wellness sessions in Wheaton at 610 West Roosevelt Road, Suite C2. Owner and practitioner Becky Page brings 17 years of massage therapy experience and more than two years of expertise in sound healing to her new practice.

Offering customized sessions tailored to individual needs, Becky’s Healing Touch and Sound provides a calming, restorative space for healing and relaxation. In addition to private appointments, the business is launching Sound Sunday events on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. These small-group sessions include immersive sound healing with optional reiki and are priced at $20 per person. Attendance is limited to six guests to ensure a personalized experience.

For more information or to book a session, visit BeckysHealingTouchAndSound.com See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Plan for a Winter Rejuvenation at 2026 Glisten Winter Wellness Retreat

A three-day experience promises to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit this winter. Glisten 2026, a transformative wellness retreat designed to melt away the noise and reconnect with one’s inner glow, will be held January 23 to 25 at the newly renovated Lake Lawn Resort, in Delavan, Wisconsin.

“The theme this year, Ignite Your Inner Light, is more than a mantra,” explains Carissa Beaman, retreat organizer. “It’s a powerful call to rekindle energy, joy and purpose through immersive experiences that speak to the soul.”

The retreat’s curated schedule blends movement, music, creativity and self-evolving activities into a life-changing weekend. Participants can attend mind spirit workshops, creative expression, energetic blueprint exploration, restorative sound bath sessions and ecstatic dance with DJ Big Heart.

There’ll also be an interactive music experience with Georgia Rae, a celebrated multi-instrumentalist known for her soulful performances.

Glisten has built a beloved following and for good reason. The mix of heart-led facilitation, thoughtful programming and inspired community creates a rare space where real transformation can happen.

Cost: $1,999 includes all events, meals, accommodations and amenities. Thursday night lodging is included at no extra charge while availability lasts. Location: 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan, WI. For more information or to register, call 847-722-9653 or visit MoonBeaman.com

Rebecca Page

Photo courtesy Rebecca Page

Showcase

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Nature’s Pharmacy: How India's Medicinal Plants Can Help to Support Men’s Reproductive Health

by Jerry Garcia, PA-C, Pedro Azcona, M.D., and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA

“Food is medicine” has deep roots across cultures and serves as a mantra for millions seeking to transform their health. For centuries, across India and other parts of Asia, the wisdom of natural remedies has lived on in the roots, leaves and seeds of medicinal plants. While modern medicine plays a vital role in health care, many men are turning to nature’s pharmacy—especially when it comes to reproductive health.

According to a 2016 article in the journal Andrologia, “For generations, Indian systems of healing like Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani have emphasized a holistic approach to health, focusing on the interconnectedness of the mind, body and spirit.” The article goes on to state that the Asian Indian culture “uses plants to support male vitality, fertility and sexual health.” Even today, in many tribal communities, these traditions remain part of daily life.

Some herbs are believed to improve libido and energy; others may support sperm health, hormonal balance or even act as natural contraception. For example, ashwagandha is well known as a stress reliever and energy booster, which can indirectly improve sexual function. Shilajit and safed musli are also popular natural tonics used to enhance stamina and reproductive performance.

These plant-based remedies appeal to men seeking natural, gentle alternatives—especially in cultures where talking about sexual health may still be a sensitive topic.

What’s exciting is that science is catching up. Researchers are exploring the benefits of these

HolisticCenter

time-tested remedies, not just for sexual wellness, but for broader health issues like reproductive cancers and chronic disorders. While not every plant is fully understood yet, the potential is promising.

At a time when more men are seeking holistic, preventive care, the wisdom of India’s herbal traditions offers hope and healing. Nature still has much to teach us.

Natural doesn’t always mean risk-free. It’s important to consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplement—especially for those with existing health conditions or that take other medications.

Chicago Male Clinic is an integrated healing center focused on treating the whole person and specializes in men’s sexual health. The clinic provides a noninvasive approach to men’s health.

Jerry Garcia is the medical director, Dr. Pedro Azcona is a medical provider and Raymond Wohl is the business manager and patient care coordinator at Chicago Male Clinic, 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 11, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Saturday, July 12. 2:00-5:00 pm

Astral Energy Healings with Richard Popp & Cheryl K.

Friday, July 18, 7:00-9:00 pm

Bridging Worlds with Barbara Petersen & Melissa Gama

Saturday, July 26, 1:00-4:00 pm

Soul Mates and Twin Souls: Traveling Companions to Enlightenment with Joanne DiMaggio. MA, Cht

Sunday, July 27 - Thursday, July 31

Private Past-Life Regressions with Joanne DiMaggio, MA, Cht

“Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Chicago” “Spiritual Growth and Personal Development” Visit our website for details/registration: holisticcenterchicago.com

Jerry Garcia, Raymond Wohl and Pedro Azcona

Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic

Break

Free From Chronic Pain With an Integrative Approach

by Kim Henderson, DC

Chronic pain can be frustrating, especially when go-to therapies like chiropractic adjustments or physical therapy seem to fall short. Many people find that even after seeing multiple skilled and compassionate providers, relief is temporary or incomplete. That’s because the root causes of chronic pain are rarely simple—and lasting solutions often require more than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Pain is usually the last symptom in a much longer process. Most chronic pain develops over a decade or more, as the body gradually adapts to stress, injuries and imbalances. These layers of compensation eventually lead to persistent discomfort.

Injury is a common starting point. Even a minor fall years ago can disrupt joint mechanics and cause the body to move in inefficient ways. These adaptations, repeated over time, increase strain and reinforce pain patterns.

Chronic inflammation is another contributor. Autoimmune issues, poor diet or metabolic dysfunction can prevent proper healing. Inflammation also creates adhesions and joint restrictions, further limiting mobility.

Hypermobility—excess movement at the joint or ligament level—can

complicate things further. When joints are unstable, the body adapts with protective but dysfunctional movement patterns. These patterns are difficult to reverse without addressing the underlying instability.

Posture plays a critical role, too. Habits like slouching at a desk or collapsing into the couch each night create long-term mechanical stress. Over time, these patterns can prolong or worsen chronic pain.

Weakness often results from injury, disuse or poor movement. Muscles near a dysfunctional joint may shut down or become imbalanced. Like a limb after a cast is removed, these areas need focused retraining to restore strength and coordination.

Because chronic pain stems from many interrelated factors, it rarely responds to a single treatment. While chiropractic, physical therapy, massage and other options can each help, combining them into a coordinated plan is often the most effective path forward.

An integrative approach focuses on identifying and addressing all the layers contributing to pain—not just managing symptoms. This may include restoring joint mobility, reducing inflammation, improving posture and retraining movement. When addressed together, these elements allow the body to heal and adapt in a lasting way.

Chronic pain is complex, but healing is possible. Relief comes from understanding how pain develops and in creating a personalized plan to resolve it—layer by layer.

Dr. Kim Henderson is the founder of Health Clarified, located at 2165A Shermer Rd., in Northbrook. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668 or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com. See ads on pages 15 and 27, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Kim Henderson Photo courtesy of Health Clarified

Paternal Dietary Influences on Sperm Quality

Genetic inheritance plays a crucial role in transmitting health-related information from parents to offspring. While lifestyle and environmental factors are known to impact sperm quality and influence the biological information passed on, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Animal studies have suggested that small, non-coding ribonucleic acid (sncRNA) regulates the activation and deactivation of genes in the sperm genetic material.

—Alan Watts

A study published in the journal Nature investigated the effects of a short-term dietary change on sperm quality. Eight men were provided with olive oil, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids as part of their diet for six weeks, while a control group of nine men maintained their standard diets. The researchers observed that the dietary intervention altered multiple sncRNA signals carried by the sperm, particularly those related to fatty acid metabolism and gene expression. These findings contribute to the growing evidence suggesting that paternal health and nutrition during conception may play a role in the developing embryo and possibly the long-term health of the child.

Tick-Borne Disease Spreads to Mid-Atlantic States

According to a paper published in the ogy, scientists found ticks carrying babesiosis disease in several Mid-Atlantic states. The rare, parasitic infection lives in the blood of rodents such as shrews, chipmunks and mice, and can be con tracted by humans through tick bites. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, babesiosis can attack red blood cells and cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, body aches, nausea and fatigue.

Historically, the disease has been reported in the Upper Mid west and Northeast regions of the United States. In this study, re searchers collected more than 1,300 black-legged ticks from Vir ginia, Maryland and Delaware and discov ered that 2.7 percent of the ticks carried the babesiosis parasite. Al though the incidence rate is relatively low, these findings under score the importance of healthcare provid ers in these states to be vigilant for the disease and provide appropri ate treatment to affect ed individuals.

15th Annual Veggie Fest Chicago Offers Global Cuisine and Healthy Living

by Jonathan Kruger

Veggie Fest Chicago returns for its milestone 15th year from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on August 9 and 10 at Danada South Park at Navistar Circle, in Lisle. Hosted by the Science of Spirituality International Meditation Center, this nonprofit festival offers free admission and parking and is one of the largest vegetarian food and wellness celebrations in North America. The public is invited to enjoy two full days of global cuisine, live music, health education, family fun and community connection.

Now a major summer tradition, Veggie Fest began as a modest gathering nearly 20 years ago. Originally inspired by the meditation center’s free classes and workshops on spirituality, meditation and healthy living, the festival aimed to share those teachings with a wider audience. At the time, vegetarian and vegan festivals were just beginning to emerge around the world—and the idea of a large-scale celebration of conscious, plant-based choices was still new to the Midwest.

The first year saw just 500 attendees, but the response was enthusiastic. Attendance quickly multiplied: 2,500 people the following year, then 5,000 and soon 10,000. With these growing numbers came new logistical lessons. The fire department stepped in, followed by the health department, the police and eventually Homeland Security as the festival reached 40,000 attendees. Through it all, organizers adapted and expanded, creating what is now a model of a volunteer-driven organization. Today, more than 1,100 volunteers from 30 different countries and 45 U.S. states help bring Veggie Fest to life each year. In fact, the Chicago Tribune has called it the best-run festival in Chicagoland—a reflection of the dedication, scale and care that go into every detail.

At the heart of the festival is its beloved international food court, where more than 400 volunteers prepare and serve freshly made vegetarian and vegan dishes from around the world. Unlike many festivals, Veggie Fest does not rely on food trucks or outside vendors—keeping the experience community-based and ensuring that food sales help support event costs.

Pricing remains affordable, and the quality and variety of offerings are a highlight for many returning attendees.

In addition to world-class food, the festival offers a full schedule of events and attractions for all ages. Festivalgoers can enjoy live music from some of the best bands in Chicago, vegetarian and vegan food demonstrations from well-known chefs, internationally recognized expert speakers on all aspects of wellness, an interactive children’s tent, yoga and meditation instruction, and nearly 100 vendors promoting healthy-living products and services.

Interestingly, approximately 90 percent of Veggie Fest attendees are neither strict vegetarians nor vegans. Instead, many are individuals curious about plant-based living that are exploring ways to incorporate more vegetarian or vegan meals into their diets. This growing interest is reflected in the popularity of Veggie Fest’s Vegetarian Challenge, a structured program with information and recipes designed to support those looking to make the transition.

With plant-based festivals taking root around the globe—from Belgium to India, Thailand to Toronto—Veggie Fest Chicago stands out for its scale, staying power and heartfelt mission. Funded entirely by donations and powered by volunteers, it offers an alternative to commercialized events: one that’s affordable, inclusive and driven by a genuine desire to serve.

Jonathan Kruger is the Community Outreach Coordinator for Veggie Fest Chicago.

Location: 2701 Navistar Cir., Lisle. For more information, call 630-842-9229 or visit VeggieFestChicago.org. See ad on page 3.

Photo courtesy Veggie Fest Chicago

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Raptors Rebound

as Cell Towers Become Modern Nesting Sites

by Vic Berardi

Aremarkable and unexpected comeback is underway for a bird that once teetered on the edge of extinction. The osprey is returning to northeastern Illinois—and in surprising fashion, it’s nesting atop cell phone towers, especially in Lake County.

The osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a large raptor with a 5- to 6-foot wingspan. It’s easy to spot with its dark brown upperparts, mostly white underside and a distinctive dark brown stripe across the side of its head. Found on every continent except Antarctica, the osprey feeds almost exclusively on fish. Its characteristic hovering and nose diving into the water for fish is a sight to behold.

Ospreys are migratory, spending the breeding season (spring through early fall) in Illinois before heading south to the Gulf Coast and South America. Juveniles do not return the following spring, but remain on wintering grounds until they are nearly 2 years old.

Unfortunately, the osprey has faced troubling times in the recent past. Thirty to 40 years ago, it nearly went extinct in North America due to dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT), an insecticide introduced in the early 1940s. Although DDT didn’t kill the birds outright, it caused a major problem with osprey eggs by thinning their shells, making them fragile and easily broken during incubation. After DDT was banned in the early 1970s, the osprey, along with other affected species, began to make a comeback.

Initially the recovery of the osprey was partially managed by installing elevated wooden platforms on tall poles, designed to resemble the open-topped trees where ospreys once built their nests. Out east, along the Atlantic shoreline, this approach was very successful and continues today.

Here in the Midwest, a similar approach has been used: Ospreys are raised in a somewhat controlled environment and then transferred to another area to breed once they become adults. It’s well known that fledglings—meaning they are capable of being on their own— mostly return to their natal area, especially the males, thus enabling the species to propagate further. This method is known as hacking.

Although hacking has produced a significant increase in the osprey population here in Illinois, something else has been happening at the same time. That something else is the use of other manmade structures such as lighting fixtures, power line structures and most recently, cell phone towers.

In 2020, only a few osprey nests were known to be on cell towers in Lake County. By 2025, at least 26 active nests have been confirmed in Lake and McHenry counties, with new ones being discovered regularly. The best time to see them during the breeding season is after the eggs have hatched and the nestlings begin to grow—just before they fledge, or leave the nest on their own. This usually occurs from late July through August. Both parents can often be seen busily feeding their young throughout the day.

Many of nature’s creatures, including the osprey, are becoming increasingly dependent on human-altered environments. The upside is that we get to witness their lives up close. The downside is that we bear greater responsibility to protect and sustain the habitats they now rely on.

Vic Berardi is the founder of the Illinois Beach State Park Hawkwatch and is a current board member of the Hawk Migration Association. He is an avid enthusiast who is recognized in the raptor community for his writings and outstanding photography. To connect with him, email VBirdman@aol.com.

Photo credit Vic Berardi

Native Bees

Support Vegetable and Flower Gardens in Chicago Region

by Sheryl DeVore

Growing up, Nick Dorian admits he was afraid of bees. But then, “I became an advocate for native bees, and I did that by getting to know them,” says Dorian, a postgraduate pollinator researcher at the Chicago Botanic Garden (CBG), in Glencoe.

“Watching bees introduces people to a new world of nature right in their own backyards and even in urban settings,” says Dorian. The co-author of WatchingBees.com says as people observe bees more closely, “They will come to learn that they are basically nonaggressive, beautiful to watch and essential to the environment.”

They also aren’t all yellow and black. (See FieldGuides.FieldMuseum.org/sites/default/files/ rapid-color-guides-pdfs/1252_usa_wild_bee_of_illinois.pdf )

“There are blue bees and red bees and green bees and silver bees and bees that are orange with green eyes, and they’re all in the Chicago area,” Dorian says. “There are bees that burrow underground and others that nest in crevices in trees. There are bees that walk on water. There are bees that sleep on flowers.”

“Getting up close and watching bees is a safe activity because most bees are not going to sting you even if they can,” Dorian explains. “Only female bees have stingers. Most of our native bees are very gentle, because most of them don’t live in hives, so they don’t have to aggressively defend their homes.”

Entomologists estimate at least 500 different species of bees, mostly native, live in the Chicago region.

“Native bees are animal pollinators,” Dorian relays. “They form the backbone of our ecosystems. They help wild plants reproduce. Illinois has an incredible heritage of prairie wildflowers that are supported by native bees.”

Native bees pollinate cranberries, pumpkins, squash, blueberries and many more crops. “Research shows that the more kinds of bees you have on a farm, the more resilient your crop production,” Dorian says.

Dorian focuses on native bees and wants people to understand that honey bees are not native. “The European honey bees get a lot of attention, but they were brought to North America in the 1600s,” he explains. “Because they are kept commercially, they are not the bees that need our help. To make an environmental impact, we should be caring for and helping our native bees.”

The most numerous native bee species are the solitary bees, those that live singly in holes in the soil or crevices in bark and vegetation. Some male solitary bees actually sleep in flowers during the night so they can be ready in the morning to quickly find a mate.

“Many of the solitary bees are very small, under 5 millimeters long,” says Terry Miesle of East Dundee. He studies bees in his backyard pollinator garden and also volunteers for Project Bee Spotter (BeeSpotter.mste.uiuc. edu). The project is a partnership between citizen and professional scientists to gather data on the population of certain bee species.

Native bees in the family Halictidae, sometimes called sweat bees, are “super common in summer, and some of them are green,” Miesle continues.

The green sweat bee visits native coneflowers, asters, goldenrods and coreopsis.

Bees in the long-horned family are also fairly easy to find. “Some bees in this family

A sweat bee rests on a coneflower in the Chicago region.

Photo by Nick Dorian

specialize on sunflower species,” Dorian says.

“The males have really long antennae,” he explains. “The females gather pollen off the sunflowers while the males hang around the sunflowers looking for mates. If you plant annual sunflowers in the city, you’ll have long-horned bees. Native sunflowers in the Helianthus genus that come up every year also attract long-horned bees.”

Dorian’s favorite bee is a broad-footed cellophane bee, which he calls the tomatillo bee. “It’s native to Illinois and pollinates an Illinois native plant called ground cherry,” he explains. “This bee has likely been helped along greatly by our urban gardens where we grow cultivated tomatillos, which are related

How to Help Native Bees Thrive

to the native ground cherries.”

Although most native bees are solitary, some are social—meaning they nest together in a hive instead of alone. “The bumble bees are one such group, of which there are 11 common species in the Chicago area,” Dorian relates. “All of them are fuzzy. They’re very hairy and largely come in black and yellow color patterns, and they’re present across the entire growing season.”

The most famous bumble bee in the region is the state and federally endangered rustypatched bumble bee. “It used to be one of the most common bumble bee species in eastern North America,” Dorian says. “In 2010, this species had virtually disappeared

Plant native blooming trees, shrubs and wildflowers, which provide nectar and pollen for bees. Choose varieties that bloom at different times from spring through fall, as various bee species emerge throughout the growing season and some specialize on flowers that only bloom during specific periods. Nick Dorian—a postgraduate pollinator researcher at the Chicago Botanic Garden, in Glencoe—suggests planting false indigo, wild bergamot, blue vervain and Joe-Pye weed in sunny gardens and Virginia waterleaf, wild geranium and zigzag goldenrod in shady areas.

from its former range. Now it’s restricted to isolated mountaintops in West Virginia and the Upper Midwest, including Chicago. The reasons for its decline are not clear, but it’s likely a combination of disease and pesticide use and habitat loss.”

While out in the field at CBG last summer, Dorian discovered a rusty-patched bumble bee visiting various species including native bee balm and Culver’s root. “In addition to being seen at CBG, it was also spotted in a previous year at the Rogers Park Metra stop,” he says. “It was in the middle of the city visiting flowers. The significance of this finding is that urban areas are thought of as not being compatible with conservation, but here’s a case where a species of conservation concern seems to be thriving within an urban area. Urban gardens, backyard gardens might be able to help support endangered species.”

Miesle says by watching bees he has discovered “how varied and wonderful the world is around me. If people stop and observe flowers, they’ll find a drama of life as the plants provide food to bees.”

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.

When purchasing plants, avoid those treated with insecticides or fungicides that can harm bees. It’s also best to avoid using pesticides in landscaping.

Provide nesting habitats for solitary bees by leaving plant stalks standing over the winter—such as those from Joe-Pye weed, wild bergamot and raspberry plants—which bees can use for nesting. Experts advise against purchasing bee hotels, as they may spread disease.

Participate in citizen science activities such as Project Bee Spotter. Identifying bees can be challenging, but posting photographs on iNaturalist or Project Bee Spotter allows experts and enthusiasts to assist with identification.

For more information, visit TheBeeConservancy.org/10-ways-to-save-the-bees.

Photo by Nick Dorian

A broad-footed cellophane bee visits a tomatillo plant.

Two spotted bumblebee visits a bee balm.

Tree Care Tips:

Watering for Health and Longevity

by M.D. Skeet (“Skeet”)

Water is the most critical—and often most limited—element for tree growth and survival. It’s the one essential resource every tree owner can provide to support healthy development.

Nearly every plant process, including photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration, depends on water to function properly. Water is just as essential as—if not more essential than—nutrients because it allows trees to absorb and transport what they need to grow and thrive.

Trees move and sway, and clients often share that they love watching their trees “dance in the wind.” Water plays a role here too, acting as a natural lubricant that allows trees to bend more easily. During drought conditions, trees can become desiccated, which may lead to broken or snapped limbs. Proper root development is key to stability, and regular watering helps make trees less susceptible to snow and wind damage.

Trees absorb water primarily through their root systems, with significantly less uptake through bark, leaves or needles. Many well-meaning tree owners try to water their trees by spraying the leaves. While it’s true that photosynthesis occurs in the leaves and requires water, that water must first be absorbed through the roots and then transported upward. Watering the leaves or needles can cause more harm than good, as it creates a favorable environment for fungal diseases. Most water is lost through evaporation via the stomata—tiny pores on the leaf surface. The majority of trees replenish their water supply overnight and rely on soil moisture to do so.

Smart Watering Tips

Trees and shrubs need water to survive, making irrigation essential, but not always simple. While insufficient water is clearly damaging, overwatering can be just as harmful. Summer is a critical period before trees shed their leaves in preparation for

winter. Giving trees the right amount of water at the right time helps them thrive through this important transition.

Here are a few tips:

• Watering is best done in the early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and foliage can dry before sunset.

• Newly planted trees and shrubs should be irrigated twice per week. Established trees typically need water once a week. Adjust frequency based on rainfall, species and drought tolerance.

• Avoid applying water directly to the trunk or leaves. Irrigate deeply in the root zone.

• Fertilizing in autumn can support recovery from dry conditions and promote healthy spring growth.

Watering Newly Planted Trees

The amount of water a newly planted tree needs depends on multiple factors, including temperature, wind and rainfall. Each tree is unique, influenced by its species, soil type and root development. Proper watering keeps trees thriving—and tree owners happy.

Most newly planted trees decline or die from overwatering, as their roots require oxygen to grow. Here’s a general guide:

How Often to Water

• To check moisture, dig a small hole at the root level or use a tensiometer to measure water tension. Most large tree roots are found within the upper 12 to 18 inches of soil.

• Water every one to three days for the first two weeks after planting.

• On non-watering days, the soil should feel moist, but not soggy. If it’s soggy, skip watering.

• Check moisture by inserting a finger or small trowel 6 to 10 inches below the surface.

• After two weeks, reduce watering to once or twice per week.

• Continue weekly watering during the growing season for three to five years, or until the tree is fully established.

• Adjust based on rainfall, drought or extreme heat.

Watering Established Trees (More Than 5 Years Old)

• Water once every seven to 10 days, depending on rainfall. Deep, infrequent watering is more effective than daily light watering. The best time to water is early morning or late afternoon when evaporation is lowest.

• To check moisture, dig a small hole at the root level or use a tensiometer to measure water tension. Most large tree roots are found within the upper 12 to 18 inches of soil.

• Provide 1 inch of water per week during the growing season, not including rainfall. For a large tree with a root spread of 30 by 30 feet, this equals about 560 gallons—roughly 10 full 55-gallon barrels. That’s nearly an hour of watering with a garden hose at full flow. Sprinklers reduce flow and increase watering time. To estimate how much water your sprinkler delivers, place a collection cup on the ground while watering.

• Position sprinklers on the ground near the trunk, directing water outward toward the dripline. Avoid spraying bark or leaves. Soaker hoses use less water but must be moved frequently for adequate coverage.

• Preserve soil moisture by adding a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch. Mulch limits evaporation and reduces competition from turf and other plants. Keep mulch away from the trunk— “mulch like a donut, not like a volcano.”

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

In the greater Chicago area, where summer heat and sporadic rainfall can take a toll, consistent watering makes all the difference. Whether it’s a young sapling or a decades-old shade tree, giving trees the right amount of water at the right time helps them stay strong, stable and healthy for years to come.

M.D. Skeet (“Skeet”) is an ISA-certified arborist and commercial arborist representative in the Bolingbrook office of Bartlett Tree Experts. Bartlett operates 11 offices and satellite locations serving Chicagoland, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri and Indiana, with more than 125 locations globally. For more information, call 630-960-4001 or visit Bartlett.com See ad on page 19, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Educational Corner

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Papilio glaucus

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly is a large butterfly with a wingspan of 2.5-4.5 inches and gets its name from the “tails” on its hindwings. Its range covers Eastern North America, from Ontario south to the Gulf Coast, and west across the plains and into Texas. It flies from spring to fall, during which time it produces two to three broods.

Caterpillar host plants:

Leaves of various plants including wild cherry, sweet bay, basswood, tulip tree, birch, ash, cottonwood, mountain ash and willow.

Adult food:

Nectar of flowers from a variety of plants including wild cherry and lilac. Milkweed and Joe-Pye weed are favorites in summer.

Habitat:

Forests and along streams, but is equally at home in gardens, parks and suburbs.

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera Family: Papilionidae

Facts:

The Microadventure Mindset

Finding Natural Splendor Close to Home

by Carrie Jackson

While many of us dream of epic journeys to faraway places, humbler excursions can also provide unforgettable memories and experiences. British adventurer and bestselling author Alastair Humphreys coined the term “microadventure” to describe a brief and inexpensive outdoor jaunt close to home. From a weekend getaway on a nearby hiking trail to an afternoon visit at a local park, microadventures offer flexible scheduling, budget-friendly options, health benefits and a deeper connection to Mother Earth.

“I think that microadventures are popular right now because we are short on time, and money is tight for many people,” says Humphreys, a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year. “We are ridiculously busy in our daily lives, but we are also craving the physical and mental respite of time in nature—fresh air, exercise and time away from our cursed phones. It’s great to have the adventure of a lifetime, but until that lucky opportunity comes around, why not try to have a lifetime filled with tiny little experiences squeezed around the margins of busy daily life?”

Nearby Adventures

Humphreys has traveled the globe experiencing extraordinary adventures such as rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, walking the length of the holy Kaveri River in India and traversing Iceland by foot and packraft. More recently, he dedicated a year to

enjoying adventures in his own neighborhood, as recounted in his book Microadventures: Local Discoveries for Great Escapes

“I focused on the single, small local map centered around my home, covering about five miles in each direction from my front door,” explains Humphreys. “At first, I worried that this would be too small, too boring or too claustrophobic. But I realized that once I slowed down, paid attention and had an adventurous mindset every day, I started to discover new places close to home I’d never seen before—new streets, new parks, new patches of woodland, new places to run. I found fragments of wild places where I could sit with a cup of coffee, all within sight of the skyscrapers of the biggest city in my country.”

Humphreys encourages others to embark on a similar year of localized exploration, reminding them to establish realistic goals and remain open to novel experiences. He also suggests aligning activities with the seasons to harmoniously celebrate the natural order. Visit the same spot during each equinox and solstice, for example, to appreciate the way the landscape changes over the course of a year. A mountain view or shoreline feels and looks different in spring, summer, autumn and winter.

“Declare your intention and outline your plans,” Humphreys recommends. “Sleep outside one night. See a sunrise blaze across the sky for a romantic Valentine’s Day. Celebrate blue moons and other celestial events.” Natural splendor is all around us.

Awe and Resourcefulness

Kameron Stanton is the chief operating officer and event manager for Black People Outside, a Chicago-based organization founded during the pandemic to encourage people of color to get outside and explore. A weekend trip with his partner, Chevon Linear, to the Grand Teton National Park during lockdown was a memorable experience. “Seeing the stars so clearly at night unlocked something in us,” Stanton recalls. “We regained a respect for Mother Nature and what the beauty of the outdoors could do for your psyche.”

A microadventure in nature presents Stanton with unique survival challenges. “In the city, everything is zooming past you so quickly. When you are outside in the wilderness, you are often alone with your thoughts and have to fend for yourself in a different way,” he explains. “If you don’t build a fire, you’re going to be cold. If you don’t have the right equipment, you could get in trouble. There are little things the outdoors can teach you in a controlled manner. You learn lessons in planning and structuring your day,

turn your stress to strength so you

through in a

while still having fun and discovering new things about yourself and the world you’re in.”

Nature’s Rewards

“Activities like hiking help build strength, endurance, respiratory health, weight loss and so many other physical elements,” Stanton asserts. “Most people you meet who regularly spend time outdoors tend not to be angry and upset. They’re looking at the brighter side of things because they are literally around brighter things. Nature feeds you and helps you feel grounded with your thoughts and feelings.”

Microadventures can also be opportunities for social engagement. Stanton suggests joining a local club related to an interest such as fishing, running or birdwatching. “Once you start having microadventures, you’ll connect with like-minded people, and you never know where that may lead you,” he says.

There are myriad ways to enjoy a microadventure in almost any environment, including hiking, kayaking, biking, skiing, climbing, rollerblading and fishing. “Forest preserves and state and national parks offer incomparable views and trails year-round. They tend to have a low admission price, and most are accessible as long as you have a vehicle,” says Stanton, noting that a lazy afternoon fishing or tubing down a river may be just a short drive away.

Planning for a Hiking Trip

Day hiking has become a popular pastime, in part because it combines many of the advantages of microadventures. “It offers a perfect opportunity to break away from the routine, explore nature and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of being outdoors," says Jacqueline Kehoe, a journalist and expert advisor for Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), which provides a wide range of equipment, apparel, workshops and other resources for adventure seekers. Similar gear retailers include Backcountry and Sierra Trading Post.

“Whether you’re planning a short stroll through a local park or a

longer trek up a nearby mountain, you always want to be prepared,” Kehoe advises. “Packing the right gear will help you make the most of your time on the trail, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out.” For most microadventures, a small hiking pack should suffice for carrying the necessary gear.

What to bring depends on multiple factors, including trail conditions, weather, the hike’s difficulty and the duration, which can range from a couple of hours to an entire day. Kehoe recommends bringing ample food and water to stay energized and hydrated, even on shorter hikes. A good starting point is one liter of water per person per hour, but this amount should be adjusted based on individual needs and the intensity of the hike. “Once your hike is longer than a few hours or goes into unfamiliar or backcountry terrain, the essential gear list grows,” Kehoe counsels.

Weather-appropriate clothing can make or break an adventure. “Dressing in moisture-wicking layers can help you stay comfortable. The weather may change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for various conditions. Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes that provide good support and traction. Proper footwear can prevent injuries and make your hike more enjoyable,” says Kehoe.

Safety should always be the top priority. “If you’re going somewhere that is unfamiliar, having the right tools can help you stay on course and find your way back if you get lost. Whether it is a smartphone app or map and compass, orient yourself with your tools and your surroundings before heading off on the trail,” Kehoe suggests. “A basic first-aid kit is useful for treating minor injuries. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications. A knife or multitool can be handy for various tasks, from cutting food to making repairs.”

AndreyPopov from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Creating Memories

With a little creativity and planning, microadventures can become a joyful addition to an active lifestyle. Humphreys encourages people to step outside, even for short periods of time, asking, “What can you do in the evenings to relax rather than watching Netflix? Can you find a little patch of nature or even a tree to sit beneath when you eat your lunch? Maybe your kids would like to eat breakfast in the park this weekend rather than in front of the TV. Learn to identify a new bird. Forage for your own food. Sleep under a full moon. Share a microadventure with a child to create lifelong memories.”

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

• HOCATT is a multi-modality wellness sauna featuring steam, rife, ozone and infrared simultaneously

• Proven to reduce the risk of colds and flu and fight other forms of infection and is the most powerful way to oxygenate and detox the body.

• The perfect option for people looking to see a plethora of quick health benefits

Sun-Kissed, Not Stressed

Keys to Protecting and Replenishing Summer Skin

by Megy Karydes

As summer’s longer days encourage outdoor activities, we face heightened exposure to solar radiation and other environmental irritants. Skin protection becomes a priority, and conventional options often employ synthetic ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin and cause adverse environmental effects. Natural alternatives offer a gentler and more sustainable approach to maintaining healthy and resilient skin all season long.

Summer protection extends beyond aesthetic and physiological considerations. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, individuals of all ages are susceptible to skin cancer, with about one in five Americans developing the condition during their lifetime. Because solar radiation can cause

burns, skin cancer and premature aging, avoiding the most intense rays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., seeking shade, applying sunscreen and wearing wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing are some of the easiest safeguards.

Protective Ingredients

During the summer months, the skin takes a beating from heat, sweat, sun exposure and frequent washing, so using products that both soothe and restore balance is important. Natural ingredients, including oatmeal, honey and lavender, offer gentle yet powerful options for protecting and soothing skin.

Oatmeal locks in moisture, eases inflammation and soothes irritation caused by sun exposure or sweat, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When finely ground into what is

known as colloidal oatmeal, its efficacy is amplified, forming a protective barrier that hydrates and calms sensitive skin. Its popularity in creams, lotions and sunburn treatments stems from inherent anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.

Honey serves as a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Recent research published in Pharmaceuticals indicates that products with higher concentrations of the sweet nectar provide improved skin hydration and reduced wrinkle depth. Floral honey, rich in natural sugars, is more effective at boosting moisture than forest honey. Even with different variants or quantities, honey-infused products feel luxurious and gentle on the skin.

Rachel Sloan, a Chicago-based beekeeper and founder of Nature’s Trace Company, frequently incorporates ingredients from her garden and hives into small-batch, nature-inspired soaps designed for gentle cleansing and nourishment. She uses both raw honey and finely ground oatmeal in many of her soaps.

Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, lavender essential oil is another popular ingredient. When diluted in a carrier oil, it may be effective in soothing minor burns due to its pain relieving and antimicrobial qualities. Julie Williams, a medical herbalist and founder of Leaf People, based in the Colorado Rockies, is drawn to lavender essential oil’s healing properties. It is a key ingredient in some of her products that offer

ALotOfPeople from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Natalia Klenova/CanvaPro

fast, natural relief from sun-exposed skin.

Replenishing Measures

According to both Williams and Sloan, when it comes to summer skin care, most people focus on protection—sunscreen, hats and long sleeves—but what often gets overlooked is replenishment. Even with the best preventative measures, exposure to sunlight can leave the skin depleted and vulnerable due to heat, ultraviolet rays and environmental stressors. It is essential to thoroughly rinse off not only sweat and sunscreen, but also the toxins released by the body through heat and exertion.

“Following that cleanse, replenishing the skin with antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamin E, vitamin C, green tea, ginkgo biloba or gotu kola helps restore what’s been lost and supports cellular recovery,” says Williams. “For those in persistently hot climates, cooling botanicals like rose, burdock root, cucumber and chamomile can soothe mild irritation and bring down surface heat. Incorporating these into your evening routine allows your skin to rest, regenerate and recover while you sleep.”

Taking care of our skin does not have to involve a complicated daily routine. “A lot of people stress out because they’re not sure if they’re using the right product or doing the right things; half the recommendations on social media conflict with each other,” says Williams. Instead of dwelling on product choices, she suggests that people find what works best for their skin and incorporate it into their daily routine, so that it becomes a constant, like other regular self-care activities.

“If you want to keep it simple in the summer, find one solid, hardworking bar that does it all: shampoo, body wash and exfoliant,” says Sloan. “Your summer skin protection routine should be focused on feeling clean, refreshed and nourished, without the fuss.”

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.

NATURAL AWAKENINGS

Connect, share and grow with Natural Awakenings Chicago’s Energy & Healing Arts Network (EHAN) — a dedicated monthly section designed for local practitioners and businesses to spotlight offerings, connect with our readers and foster meaningful connections.

NETWORK LISTINGS

Energy Healing

HARMONIC EGG-NAPERVILLE

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MARK PATENT

ENERGY HEALING

Natural-born energy healer. Physical, mental & spiritual healing. Energy balancing.

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THE AGAPE HOUSE

Reiki, Intuitive Readings Reiki Shares, Sound Bath Meditations 603 Geneva Rd, St. Charles 416 E. Roosevelt Rd, #107, Wheaton 630-294-5225

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THE CHAKRA SHOPPE CLASSES & HEALINGS

Chakra Analysis & Healing, Reiki, Sound Healing, Crystal Healing Guided Imagery, Core Belief Sessions. 5034 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago 773-271-3054

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MOON PHASES OF LIFE MINISTRY

Naturopathy. Midwifery. Reiki. Botanical Remedies. Much More. Home Visits, Telehealth Woodstock, Island Lake 224-730-1940

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Healing From the Ground Up:

The Wisdom of Backyard Foraging

by Shanna Bierman, RN

Nature offers gifts to those that know where to look—and sometimes the most powerful remedies and nutrient-rich foods are right outside our back doors. Backyard foraging allows us to reconnect with the land, rediscover lost knowledge and harness the benefits of plants often dismissed as weeds. Plants like plantain, dandelions, creeping Charlie and wild violets are not only edible, but also packed with healing properties.

However, backyard foraging comes with important considerations. It’s essential to be absolutely certain the area is free of chemical sprays, pesticides or herbicides. Many residential lawns are treated with chemicals that linger in the soil and on the plants, making them unsafe to eat. Foraging should only be done on land we personally manage and know intimately to ensure the plants are as clean and pure as nature intended.

Another important but often overlooked point: don’t over-wash the harvest. Plants in their natural environment are coated with a thin layer of beneficial microorganisms—a vital part of the natural microbiome. These friendly bacteria and fungi not only help plants thrive, but can also benefit our own gut microbiome when we consume them. A light brush to remove dirt or bugs is usually enough unless the plant is clearly contaminated.

Here are four of the most common and useful backyard treasures:

Plantain

(Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata)

This low-growing, broad-leafed plant is commonly found along pathways and in disturbed soil. It’s one of the most versatile medicinal plants around.

• Benefits and Uses: Plantain leaves are rich in vitamins A, C and K, plus minerals like calcium. They’re known for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. Chewing a fresh leaf and applying it to a bug bite, minor burn or small cut can immediately soothe irritation and help promote healing. As a tea, plantain can help ease sore throats and support respiratory health. Young plantain leaves can be tossed into salads or lightly steamed like spinach.

• Harvest Tip: Use young, tender leaves for eating and slightly older ones for poultices or salves.

Dandelion

(Taraxacum officinale)

Every part of the dandelion is edible and beneficial—from its bright yellow blossoms to its sturdy taproot.

Plantain Creeping Charlie Wild Violet Dandelion

Photo credit Shanna Bierman

• Benefits and Uses: Dandelion greens are loaded with vitamins A, C and E, along with B vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium and magnesium. Their slight bitterness help to support liver and digestive health by stimulating bile production. The flowers can be turned into a delicate, sweet-tasting jelly or brewed into a tea that lifts the spirits. Roasted dandelion root makes a nourishing coffee substitute and supports liver detoxification.

• Harvest Tip: Only harvest dandelions from soil that has been untouched by lawn chemicals for at least three years.

Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)

Often considered a nuisance, this aromatic ground cover offers surprising health benefits.

• Benefits and Uses: Used traditionally for colds and congestion, creeping Charlie has expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. A tea made from the leaves can help clear the sinuses, ease digestion and support kidney function. It’s also rich in vitamin C and iron. Add a few minty-tasting leaves to salads, soups and sautés for a nutritional boost.

• Harvest Tip: Pick young leaves and flowers in the spring for the best flavor and potency.

anti-inflammatory leaves can be used in poultices for minor wounds, insect bites or dry skin. The flowers are mildly sweet—perfect for garnishing salads, infusing honey or dressing up desserts. Violet leaf tea can also be used as a gentle remedy for coughs and colds.

• Harvest Tip: Pick flowers in the morning when they’re fresh. Leaves are best harvested before the plant starts to seed.

A Few Words of Caution

Correct plant identification is absolutely essential. Some plants have toxic lookalikes, so study reputable field guides or take a local foraging class to gain confidence. When in doubt, leave the plant alone.

Forage sustainably—never take more than a third of any plant population, and always harvest in a way that lets the plant continue growing. That keeps the patch—and its microbiome—healthy for future harvests and for the insects, birds and animals that rely on it.

Closing Thoughts

Backyard foraging invites us to reconnect with nature; support our health with fresh, potent plants; and practice food stewardship of the land. When we ensure the environment is chemical-free, harvest gently to preserve beneficial microbes and honor the unique gifts of each plant, we’re participating in a timeless tradition of living in

Shanna Bierman is a holistic nurse, reiki master, herbalist and owner , in Grayslake. For more information, visit

Protein-Forward Breakfasts

Starting the Day Strong

by Marlaina Donato

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 85 percent of Americans aged 20 and older consume breakfast daily, with eggs being a common component. Eating protein during the first meal of the day can help us feel full longer, balance blood sugar levels and potentially alleviate chronic anxiety. In addition to complex carbohydrates, fiber and heathy fats, the Mayo Clinic recommends that a nutritious breakfast always include lean protein.

“Protein is the master synthesizer, essential in its role in muscle building, immune function and energy balance,” says Melissa Halas, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator in California. “Including protein early in the day helps prevent the common energy dip mid-morning and keeps satiety levels high, supporting healthy metabolism and preventing overeating later.” Protein requirements increase during periods of stress, recovery from injury or surgery, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and life stages such as childhood, adolescence and the golden years.

Thinking Outside the Cereal Box

Typical sweet cereals favored by kids often contain a high sugar content of 12 grams per cup, which is half of the daily recommended added sugar allowance for young children, as outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Replacing low-nutrient, high-carbohydrate choices like white-flour pancakes and sugary cereal with delicious, plant-based scrambles, naturally sweet or savory breakfast bowls and delectable fruit parfaits can be both simple and satisfying.

Even if our breakfast choices are already healthier, a little extra fortification can do the body good. “Many common breakfasts like oatmeal and avocado toast don’t have enough protein, so it’s a good idea to be diligent about meeting your protein needs at breakfast. It’ll set you up for better energy, focus and satisfaction throughout the morning, plus better metabolism. The key is combining protein with fiber and healthy fats to keep you full and fueled until lunchtime,” says New York City-based

Samantha Cassetty, a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of Sugar Shock and founder of Sam’s Plate, an online nutrition and wellness source.

Whether we incorporate a tablespoon of unsweetened organic almond or peanut butter into oatmeal or layer smoked salmon and cream cheese on multigrain toast, an added source of protein can provide a boost of energy and vitality.

As a single mom, Cassetty understands the challenges of transitioning kids away from sugary foods and highly processed ingredients. She suggests making smart substitutions, such as serving whole-grain frozen waffles topped with berries and protein-rich Greek yogurt or breakfast nachos with whole-grain tortilla chips instead of breakfast tacos in highly processed taco shells. For a fun breakfast parfait, she heats frozen berries until they release their juices and then mixes the warmed fruit with plain Greek or plant-based yogurt. To enhance the texture and nutritional value, she adds a spoonful of chunky nut butter, a sprinkle of nutritious seeds or low-sugar granola.

Boosting the Protein Content

An extra-hearty breakfast can be as simple as adding a scoop of whey or plant-based protein powder into a whole-grain waffle mix or blending grass-fed gelatin powder into a smoothie. Protein-rich tofu, which is virtually tasteless when unseasoned, not only absorbs any flavors added to it, but also transforms into a luscious pudding when blended with a dash of plant-based milk, cinnamon and dates.

For Halas, tofu scrambled in a pan as an egg substitute and served on a whole-grain tortilla with turmeric and vegetables offers a well-balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates. She also recommends multipurpose cottage cheese, a favorite of generations past, for breakfast bowls mixed with berries, flaxseeds and walnuts, or spread onto toast with avocado. Full- or reduced-fat ricotta can provide a healthy alternative, as well.

JeniFoto/Shutterstock

Nutrient-dense pseudo-grains like quinoa and amaranth offer versatility. “Quinoa is traditionally eaten for breakfast in countries such as Peru as a warm porridge known as pesque,” explains Halas. “You can cook quinoa or amaranth in cow or plant milk and top it with fruit, seeds and cinnamon for a warm cereal bowl particularly well-suited for vegetarian, gluten-free and anti-inflammatory diets, making it an excellent alternative to conventional grains at breakfast.”

Cassetty offers a savory variation, saying, “You can use quinoa to make a breakfast grain bowl with sautéed spinach, eggs and a seasoning like pesto.” She also encourages using dinner leftovers for morning nourishment.

Most of all, breakfast should feel doable. “I recommend making breakfast nourishing, satisfying and practical—something you can prep ahead of time or whip up fast,” advises Halas.

Marlaina Donato is an author and artist. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com

YIELD: 1 SERVING

½ cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat or fat-free) ½ cup low-sugar granola ½ cup papaya, diced 1 tsp honey

Add ¼ cup of yogurt to the bottom of a 12- or 16-ounce glass. Add most of the diced papaya and granola and a drizzle of honey to the glass. Layer on the remainder of the yogurt. Top with the remaining papaya, granola and honey.

Recipe courtesy of Melissa Halas, MA, RDN, CDE.

HONEY PAPAYA YOGURT PARFAIT

Fresh, Local and Growing

Farmers Markets Fuel a Regional Revival

by Bob Benenson

Farmers markets are now deeply woven into the fabric of the Lake Michigan region’s food culture. Illinois has the third most farmers markets among states, with the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ilfma.org/find-a-market) counting more than 300 seasonal markets.

The Chicago region alone hosts nearly 100 farmers markets during the peak summer season. The metropolis is served by local farms throughout Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Indiana—each with its own robust farmers market community.

Whether located in parks, city plazas, parking lots or as pop-ups in residential neighborhoods, farmers markets provide a wide

variety of options to suit the preferences of local food lovers. The scene has become such a staple that many people don’t realize how much smaller it was not long ago.

For most of the nation’s history, agriculture consisted mainly of small farms selling products to their local communities. The downtown market in Aurora (AuroraFarmersMarket.com)—a populous Chicago suburb—is a throwback to that tradition. Founded in 1912, it is the oldest continuously operating farmers market in Illinois.

The rise of industrial farming, supermarkets and the conventional food system overshadowed this localized way of selling food. But

there was pushback. Pillars of the Chicago farmers market scene, such as Daley Plaza in the Loop and suburban markets like Oak Park (Oak-Park.us/community/events-and-activities/oak-park-farmers-market) and Ravinia (RaviniaFarmersMarket.com) in Highland Park, were started in the 1970s by pioneers in the Good Food movement. Still, by the late 20th century, only a few hundred farmers markets remained across the country.

That changed rapidly. A growing number of consumers—concerned about the widespread use of chemicals in industrial agriculture, seeking healthier diets and wanting a more personal connection to their food— spurred a dramatic revival of the farmers market sector.

Chicago’s Green City Market (GreenCity Market.org), founded in 1999, played a leadership role in shaping the region’s food landscape. It introduced sustainability certification requirements and set producer-only standards. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the number of farmers markets nationwide has grown fourfold to more than 8,000.

Why Visit a Farmers Market

For those that haven’t yet become farmers market regulars, there are plenty of reasons to give them a try.

Taste: First and foremost, the food tastes better. Almost all of the produce sold at farmers markets is harvested at its peak, often just a day or two before being sold. In contrast, supermarket produce is typically picked much earlier. A single bite of a ripe, fresh peach or tomato could be enough to convert a firsttime visitor into a regular shopper.

Health Benefits: Many studies show that locally produced food retains more nutrients than food shipped from far away. The freshness and flavor can also inspire people to “eat the rainbow”—choosing colorful produce packed with different phytonutrients.

Environmental Impact: Many farmers markets now require producers to hold at least one sustainability certification or

Photo credit Bob Benenson

follow sustainable practices. While only those with USDA Organic certification can label their goods “organic,” many others also use organic practices.

Increasingly common is the term “regenerative agriculture", which refers to practices that maintain and improve soil health—like minimizing soil disruption, planting cover crops and using rotational grazing for livestock. This has also led to more availability of pasture-raised meat, which appeals to those concerned with animal welfare.

Economic Resilience: Buying directly from local farmers helps provide them with more financial security, which in turn, supports stronger rural and urban economies.

Reliability: Before 2020, many believed the industrial food system could not fail. But the COVID-19 pandemic proved otherwise, as supermarket closures and supply chain disruptions led to food shortages. Local farmers that still had food to sell and the means to bring it to farmers markets helped meet the need—and many people that tried the markets for the first time during that period became loyal customers.

A Better Experience: While supermarkets serve an important role—especially for items like bananas that can’t be grown locally—shopping outdoors in a lively, community-oriented setting can feel more like a celebration than a chore.

Farmers markets have become more than just places to buy food—they’re community hubs that support healthier lifestyles, local economies and a more sustainable food system. As interest continues to grow across the Lake Michigan region, these markets remain a vital connection between consumers and the farmers that feed them.

Bob Benenson is the writer and publisher of Local Food Forum, a Chicago-based publication that maintains a regional farmers market tracker and covers the markets regularly. For more information, visit LocalFoodForum.com

•

Into Balance with Chakra Photography

Farmers Market Blueberry Crumble Recipe

Celebrates Our Midwest Summer

by Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN Executive Directory, Illinois Farmers Market Association

There is nothing like summer in the Midwest. Farmers markets are brimming with a full variety of fresh produce. Mid-summer is also fresh fruit season. I cannot get enough blueberries. Each year, I buy and freeze about 25 pounds of blueberries to be sure I have the wonderful goodness of berries all year long. And you can add blueberries to just about anything: yogurt, salads or just eat them by the handful.

I do love blueberry desserts as well. This recipe is a slightly different take on fruit crumble. It can be made with fresh or frozen berries, and if the berries are local, fresh and sweet, there is no reason to add the typical flour, sugar or lemon juice to the berries! Just make the crumble topping and add to the blueberries. I prefer to mix the topping into the berries, so every bite is the wonderful combination of berries and topping.

BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE

YIELD: 6-8 SERVINGS

8 cups fresh or frozen* berries**

1 cup flour

½ cup brown sugar

¾ cup rolled oats

1 tsp cinnamon

½ cup butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Grease an 8x11-inch baking dish lightly with softened butter. Place blueberries in baking dish. Melt butter and let cool. Combine flour, brown sugar, rolled oats and cinnamon in a bowl. Add melted butter and mix until the butter is incorporated. Topping will be lumpy.

With a spatula, gently incorporate half of the topping into the fruit. Use the other half to top the fruit.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Serve warm as is or top with local vanilla ice cream.

*If frozen berries are used, do not thaw. Place the berries into the baking dish directly from the freezer.

**Raspberries and blackberries work well, too—or try a combination of berries.

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

Support Local: Why Farmers Markets Matter

The Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA) helps make fresh, local food available across the state by supporting farmers markets and the people that run them. Shopping at farmers markets isn’t just about delicious farm fresh products—it’s about building stronger communities, supporting small farms and making healthy food accessible to all. Many Illinois markets accept SNAP and WIC benefits, thanks in part to ILFMA’s efforts. Local markets reduce environmental impact and connect people directly with growers. Every visit supports a more sustainable food system. For more information or to find a market nearby, visit ilfma.org.

Photo credit

Janie Maxwell

Photo credit Janie Maxwell

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The New Cycle of Innovation

How Tech Is Shaping the Future of Bicycling

by Carrie Jackson

Cycling is more about the journey than the destination. Bikes are constantly evolving, offering more streamlined rides to engage cyclists of all ability levels. Recent trends include the rise of gravel bikes and electric bikes, advancements in tubeless tires and the increasing integration of technology. For riders that want to explore challenging terrain or upgrade their daily commute, there are numerous options for safer and more connected bikes that offer an enjoyable experience.

Gravel Bicycles

Multi-surface gravel bikes are built to explore unpaved roads, striking a balance between the lightweight feel of road bikes and the off-road capability of mountain bikes. Gretchen Brauer, general manager of Wheel & Sprocket, a cycling outfitter in Evanston, Illinois, attributes the growing popularity of gravel bikes to their enhanced versatility, increased safety and superior comfort on rough terrain.

“Gravel bikes can be ridden almost anywhere—on and off-road,” she explains. “The key features are slacker geometries, a longer wheelbase and higher stack heights, which increase the comfort factor and provide better visibility. Wider road tires enable riders to navigate over all sorts of surfaces.”

Andrew Dutton, director of brand marketing at Trek Bicycle, asserts that gravel bikes open

a world of adventure that is tough to find on congested roads. “Gravel bikes give riders the freedom to discover scenic, low-traffic routes with more confidence, comfort and fun,” he says. Design innovations have made it easier than ever to venture further and discover more. “Modern gravel bikes feature increased clearance for wider tires that offer better grip, more stability and more speed,” Dutton points out. “Integrated storage on models like Trek’s Checkpoint make gravel bikes perfect for everything from one-day races to multi-day escapes.”

Electric Bikes

Electric bicycles employ an electrified drive system that augments the rider’s pedaling power. The motor and battery assist in propulsion. Most e-bikes are equipped with a remote or controller to enable adjustments to the power output. The latest generation features integrated, removable batteries and varied mid-drives that position the motor at the center of the bike

frame, making them user-friendly, practical and enjoyable to ride.

In recent years, e-bikes have soared in popularity, in part because they accommodate riders of all ages and fitness levels. “E-bikes allow people to ride farther distances and arrive at their destinations more quickly and less sweaty,” Brauer attests. “Some people maybe wouldn’t be able to ride without the assistance of the motors. With the options of cargo e-bikes, lots of people are able to replace their cars.”

Improved Tires and Brakes

Tubeless tire systems have gained increasing traction for a compelling reason. Frequently found on mid-range to high-end mountain bikes, as well as on gravel and road bikes, they offer improved ride quality and tire construction. “Tubeless tires do not require the use of an inner tube,” Brauer remarks. “Instead, a few ounces of sealant are put into the tire. Small punctures become instantly sealed, and the ride can continue. When riding, there are a few benefits that include decreased rolling resistance and a lower tire pressure that reduces the risk of a pinch flat.”

Brauer also notes that most bikes are now equipped with wider tires, which contribute

to a more comfortable ride without compromising on speed. Disc brakes, which stop the bike by squeezing a brake pad against a rotor mounted around the hub, have become standard on nearly all categories of bikes, providing superior stopping performance in all sorts of conditions.

Social Connectivity

To enhance the riding experience and foster connections among cyclists, riders are actively seeking innovative solutions. “Technology is linking one rider to another, allowing for near constant communication among cyclists who are not actually riding together,” says Brauer. “A handful of applications track your rides. After the ride is completed, these apps allow riders to compare and compete for digital awards. You can see where and how fast your friends rode and get ideas for routes. It brings a sense of community to groups of people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to connect.”

Safety Features

Dutton notes that technology is making cycling safer. “Recent innovations are helping more people feel confident on the bike

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and excited to ride,” he shares. “Daytime running lights use a specific flash, focus and range to help riders stand out to drivers more than a mile away, even in broad daylight. Rear-facing radar helps riders stay aware of approaching traffic while making them more visible to others on the road. Digital bells with Bluetooth speakers and advanced sound engineering help riders be heard, not just seen, even in congested areas. Together, these technologies help create a safer, more connected and more confident riding experience wherever the road (or trail) leads.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

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Julian Hoffman

on Finding Our Place in an Interconnected World

by Sandra Yeyati

Julian Hoffman is an award-winning fiction and creative nonfiction writer who explores the connections between humans and the natural world, underscoring an inescapable need for conservation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Carleton University, in Ottawa, Canada. Hoffman’s first book, The Small Heart of Things, won the 2012 Association of Writers & Writing Programs Award Series for Creative Nonfiction, as well as the 2014 National Outdoor Book Award for Natural History Literature.

In his book Irreplaceable, Hoffman celebrates the imperiled places that are increasingly

vanishing from the world, including coral reefs, tallgrass prairies, ancient woodlands and meadows, along with the many species that live there such as nightingales, elephant seals, water voles, redwoods, hornbills and lynxes. It was the Highly Commended Finalist for the 2020 Wainwright Prize for Writing on Global Conservation. His latest book is Lifelines: Searching for Home in the Mountains of Greece

What was the impetus for writing Lifelines?

I wanted to tell the story of the remarkable Prespa basin, where my wife and I live in Greece. But I also wanted to tell a bigger

story of the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, to explore how our lifelines are entwined. I wanted to see what we get right and what we very often get wrong, and how we might go about healing some of those divisions and building stronger and more resilient bridges between the two, because our lives are dependent on the wild world that we nest inside.

What are the most salient characteristics of the Prespa basin?

Prespa is a unique crossroads place where three countries come together around two ancient lakes that hold colonies of Dalmatian and Great White pelicans. While my wife and I live in Greece, on the other side of the borders are Albania and North Macedonia. This is also where Mediterranean species meet their Balkan relatives in these colder mountains and where a geological line down the middle of the basin separates limestone on one side from granite on the other. This geological collision means that different flora and invertebrate communities can coexist in the same place.

Because of the complex demographic and political histories of the region, and the borders that divide this watershed, it’s a place where conflict has often left terrible legacies that have been written into the landscape itself. But—and this is one of the key themes in the book—it’s also a place where bridges are being slowly and gradually built. Just like those other crossroads of geology and different communities of wild species, I believe borders are not only points of division, but also places of meeting and connection, if we choose them to be. The Prespa transboundary region is showing us a way forward, slowly and not without problems, that the key to change is to recognize that we are connected beyond borders. Climate change, for example, doesn’t recognize a line in the water but greatly affects us all.

Courtesy of Julian Hoffman

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Why Common Sensitivity Fixes Often Fail for Dogs

(and What to Do Instead)

by Christine Johnson

Living with a dog that constantly scratches, licks its paws, suffers from digestive upset or battles with recurring ear infections can be both challenging and heartbreaking. Despite rotating foods, buying special shampoos and making repeated vet visits, the symptoms often persist. These efforts may provide temporary relief but rarely result in lasting change—because the root cause remains unaddressed.

Why Diet Switching Often Fails: The Hidden Traps in Pet Food

A common mistake pet owners make when addressing chronic symptoms is switching their dog’s food—trying different proteins, grain-free options or limited-ingredient

formulas. While these choices may seem logical, they frequently fall short. When symptoms persist, it becomes clear that something important is being overlooked: the actual source of the reaction remains unidentified.

Many don’t realize that their dog’s discomfort is often triggered by hidden elements such as preservatives, artificial colors and flavor enhancers—not just the main protein. Another often-overlooked factor is ingredient transparency. Studies have shown that up to 45 percent of pet foods tested contained ingredients not disclosed on the label. Without accurate labeling, elimination diets can’t reliably resolve food sensitivities. Pet owners

are left guessing, and this trial-and-error approach rarely results in long-term relief.

Distinguishing Allergies From Sensitivities

Although many people refer to their dog’s symptoms as allergies, most dogs actually suffer from sensitivities—or intolerances—rather than true immune-based allergies. Allergies trigger a more immediate immune response and can be severe, but sensitivities are typically delayed, chronic reactions affecting the skin, digestion and even behavior. These reactions are harder to detect because symptoms may not appear until days after exposure.

Research indicates that true food allergies affect only about 2 to 3 percent of dogs, while food sensitivities are far more common— impacting an estimated 27 million dogs.

The Product Trap: Spending on Short-Term Relief

When symptoms persist, many turn to external solutions: anti-itch sprays, paw balms, ear drops, probiotics and medicated shampoos. These products often promise fast relief and may offer temporary comfort—but symptoms usually return.

These remedies typically address symptoms, not causes. If the underlying irritants—often found in food, treats or the environment—are not removed, the cycle continues. This approach can drain time, energy and

finances, often resulting in more frustration than progress.

Vet Visit Fatigue: The Limits of Conventional Treatment

Veterinarians provide essential care and play a critical role in a dog’s health. However, the standard approach to sensitivities often centers on symptom management. Antibiotics, steroids, anti-inflammatories and prescription and even hypoallergenic diets are commonly used to address flare-ups.

Unfortunately, these measures often suppress symptoms without uncovering the real triggers.

In many cases, dogs cycle through medications and diet changes without lasting improvement. Skin flare-ups, poor coat condition and recurring gastrointestinal issues often indicate deeper imbalances that cannot be resolved through symptom suppression alone.

The Cycle of Pain: Physical and Emotional Toll

Over time, unresolved sensitivities create a loop of frustration. New foods are introduced, new products are tried and another round of medications begins. Each attempt brings hope, followed by disappointment. This cycle affects not only the dog but the entire household.

The repeating loop—diet swaps without clarity, symptom-masking products and temporary veterinary treatments—keeps both dog and caretaker stuck in survival mode rather than thriving.

Breaking free requires more than just changing brands or trying new remedies. It calls for a complete shift in how chronic symptoms are viewed and addressed.

A Smarter, Root-Cause Perspective

Symptoms like itching, licking, ear infections

and digestive upset aren’t random. They’re signs of imbalance—often caused by food sensitivities, environmental triggers or accumulated toxins. Identifying these triggers is the first step toward lasting change.

Rather than relying on elimination diets, which can be costly and time-consuming, consider a comprehensive food sensitivity test. Hair analysis can reveal sensitivities to common ingredients, additives, preservatives and proteins—providing real answers that lead to lasting solutions.

But don’t stop there. As mentioned, commercial foods are often deceptive. This may be the time to consider homemade. Customizing a diet with clean, whole ingredients that support the gut and reduce inflammation is also key. The gut plays a central role in a dog’s immune health, skin integrity and emotional balance. Once harmful triggers are removed and high-quality nutrition is introduced, the body can begin to restore itself naturally.

Conclusion: A Clearer Path Forward

There’s no single product, pill or protein switch that will solve chronic sensitivity

issues. Dogs with persistent symptoms require a deeper, more informed approach— one that prioritizes understanding over guessing. Quick fixes often delay progress by masking symptoms instead of eliminating their source.

More dogs suffer from sensitivities than true allergies, and these reactions often go unnoticed or misdiagnosed. Identifying what the body is reacting to is essential—and that starts with insight. Food sensitivity testing offers a path toward a more personalized, effective wellness plan.

By shifting from trial-and-error to rootcause strategies, pet parents can help their dogs move beyond discomfort and toward a life of comfort, vitality and improved quality of life.

Christine Johnson is a canine nutritionist and wellness consultant at Dogs 4 Life, helping pet parents resolve food sensitivities and improve their dogs’ health through personalized, natural solutions. For more information, visit Dogs4Life.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Abandoning Routine and Courting Delight

by Marlaina Donato

Summer presents a timely invitation to sip from a full cup, set aside todo lists and sink our toes into all that shimmers. Somewhere between keeping the kids entertained and weeding the flower beds is an opportunity to tend to our abandoned joys. It can be as simple as noticing the tinkling of ice cubes in a glass or planning an enchanted picnic at sunset with colorful cloths draped beneath a tree.

Summer comes but once a year, and as our backyard blooms in vibrant hues, so should we. Buying new, sultry spices for the cupboard, scenting the bed sheets with stress-reducing ylang ylang essential oil, placing fresh flowers into a tea pot instead of

a traditional vase or walking barefoot after a storm tells the nervous system that there is more to life than the chores. Inspiration is an unpredictable muse; waiting for her to notice us in our busy lives is most often futile. Combating the monotony of routine in small, daily gestures is easy and lights up our senses.

Relinquishing the common tendency to feel self-conscious is key. “Be brave enough to live life creatively,” says actor Alan Alda. Such courage may require that we break our own rules. If you usually prefer venturing out with company, make a point of going out solo for a backroad drive with no destination and a good playlist. If you haven’t drawn since childhood, buy some colorful

pens and doodle in a sketchbook. Host a fancy herbal tea party and invite a neighbor you’ve never spent time with.

Wear a breezy scarf and flowers in your hair, even if you’re just running errands. Ask someone you’ve long admired to go out on a date and attend a local free concert under the stars. Everyone that is accustomed to seeing you living life a little more low-key will get over it. Having a wild love affair with summer is good for the soul and might even change your life.

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

Calendar of Events

Plastic Free July

Tuesday, July 1

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, July 2

Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. Explore how urban agroforestry (integrating trees, perennial plants and annual beds into urban landscapes) can enhance food security, boost biodiversity and improve urban microclimates. 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, July 3

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Friday, July 4

Independence Day

Saturday, July 5

Fishing for Trash – July 5-11. 6am-7pm. Visit Monee Reservoir and help keep the preserve trash-free for visitors and wildlife. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. ReconnectWithNature.org

Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing – 8am-12pm. See the dazzling spectacle of nesting herons, egrets and cormorants. Maybe even see one of our resident bald eagles. Bring binoculars. Free. Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, 23202 W Renwick Rd, Plainfield. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Holistic Fair – 12-6pm. Modalities: Intuitive Tarot Readings, Angel Card Readings, Akashic Records, Astrology, Reiki Energy Healing, Energy Work, Shamanic Medium Sessions. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Sunday, July 6

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Monday, July 7

Native Plants for Small Gardens – 6:308:30pm. Darien Garden Club meeting. Heather Prince provides a curated list of native plants that can enliven a garden, including natives that won’t grow of bounds in a smaller space. In-person & Zoom. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. DarienGardenClub.com

Tuesday, July 8

Green Drinks Libertyville – 7:30pm. 2nd Tues. Sharing Our Shore and the Return of the Piping Plover to Waukegan Shores movie by Carolyn Lueck. Pizzeria DeVille, 404 N Milwaukee Ave,n Libertyville. Facebook.com/greendrinkslibertyville or GreenDrinks.org.

Wednesday, July 9

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See July 2 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

MenLiving: Where Men Find Connection and Support – 6:30pm. With Dan Bulf. Provides online and in-person spaces for men to craft healthier, more fulfilling lives. Free. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. Tinyurl.com/56t58pfj

Thursday, July 10

Dharma Day (Buddhism) Guru Purnima (Hinduism)

Full Moon – Buck Moon, Berry Moon

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. Sarah Karnes: 262-7458362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland

Friday, July 11

World Population Day

Sync The Beats: Drumming Circle –6-7:30pm. A transformative evening of rhythm, sound and connection at our Shamanic Drumming Circle, led by Marge Schneider and facilitated by Harmony Pavett. Combines the healing power of shamanic drumming with the unifying energy of native drumming songs. $45. Harmonic Egg Naperville, 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville. 630-780-0193. HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

Intuitive Card Connection Class –7-8:30pm. With Lisa Maria. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Beginning Zen Shiatsu: Two Weekends –July 11-13, 18-20. 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. ZenShiatsu.edu

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Saturday, July 12

Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing – 8am-12pm. See July 5 listing. Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, 23202 W Renwick Rd, Plainfield. ReconnectWithNature.org

Reiki Play Day – 9-11am. Introduces traditional Japanese reiki practices to those that may never have tried them. All levels of experience and lineage welcome. Unlike at a reiki share, there is no hands-on healing among participants. $20 suggested donation. Calandra Center for Health and Wellness, 830 E Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg. Registration required: 312-796-3965 or CalandraAcupuncture.com

Meet a Beekeeper – 10am-12pm. Meet local beekeeper Dade Bradley to discuss the art of beekeeping. Ask questions, chat and troubleshoot. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of bees. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. ReconnectWithNature.org

Mercado de Intercambio – 11am-3pm. Health & Wellness. Consider bringing your old crutches, or other medical devices for swap. Davis Square Park, corner of 45th and Marshfield, Chicago. PlantChicago.org

Native Garden Tour 2025 – 12-4pm. Rain date: July 13. The self-guided tour features 5 residential gardens that showcase the beauty, resilience and functionality of native plants. Free. Registration required: GoGreenHP.org

ONLINE: Chicago IANDS – 2pm. Support/ study/resource forum for near-death, outof-body and spiritual experiences, losses. Guest Speaker: Brian D. Smith, Grief Guide, Mental Fitness Trainer, Author, Grief 2 Growth: Planted, Not Buried, Helping Parents Heal Board Member, Podcaster. 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.

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

Surf-n-Turf Concert – 5:30-8:30pm. Live music will play in Monee Reservoir’s amphitheater courtesy of The Sting Rays. Visitors can take in the tunes on the lawn or on the water. Food trucks available to purchase food. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. ReconnectWithNature.org

Sunday, July 13

Noche de Familia – 5-8pm. Celebrate the vibrant cultures of Latin America with crafts, cuisine, music and storytelling that highlight the cultural significance of monarch butterflies in Latin American traditions. Included with Arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. MortonArb.org.

Monday, July 14

Bastille Day

Int’l Non-Binary People’s Day

Tuesday, July 15

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, July 16

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See July 2 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Girls Gone Mild: A Community Reiki Experience – 7-8pm. With Retune Health. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

Thursday, July 17

Acupuncture & Reiki Stress-Reduction Hour – 5-6:30pm. 3rd Thur. 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

Feed Your Soul Gestalt Group – 7-9:30pm. 3rd Thurs thru Dec 18. Share joys and disappointments in a safe environment without judgment. As the horses support you through the process, participants experience the life changing, deep healing of Gestalt therapy. $45. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com

Glow in the Dark: Firefly Hike – 7:45-9pm. Once we learn a little about these captivating beetles, we will observe, catch and release the lightening bugs. Free. Prairie Bluff Preserve, Renwick Road, east of Weber Rd, Crest Hill. Register by July 15: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

SAVE THE DATE

US Psychotronics Association Golden Anniversary Conference July 17-20

8-9:30pm, Thurs; 8am-9:30pm, Fri/Sat; 8am-5pm, Sun.

Celebrating 50 years of Mind-Body Technologies: Psychotronics, Radionics, Subtle Energy, Bio Fields, Free Energy and more. Searching the New Horizons of Science and Consciousness, with over 20 speakers, vendors, workshops and breakout sessions.

Crystal Lake, Illinois Holiday Inn Elara Ballroom 800 S Illinois Rte 31, Crystal Lake 815-355-8030 Psychotronics.org

Friday, July 18

Nelson Mandela Int’l Day

Sonic Sound Journey Gong and Bowls – 6:30-8pm. With Andre and Barb. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Bridging Worlds – 7-9pm. Do you have questions about what the dying process entails? Barbara Petersen, RN, Hospice Nurse, and Melissa Gama, natural medium and shaman, answer questions about the Soul's new experience. $40. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Saturday, July 19

Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing – 8am-12pm. See July 5 listing. Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, 23202 W Renwick Rd, Plainfield. ReconnectWithNature.org

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

Sunday, July 20

2025 Sustainable Yard Tour – 9am-12pm. Learn how gardeners make attractive and insect friendly spaces using green practices such as composting, rain barrels and native plant species. Gardeners can share how they make their efforts affordable by sharing plants and dividing them. More info: GoGreenIllinois.org

Usui Reiki 1: Awaken the Healer Within – 9am-4pm. Receive your Usui Reiki Level 1 (Shoden) attunement, opening you as a channel for healing. Learn the history and sacred principles of reiki. Explore the chakra system, energetic hygiene and the aura. Practice self-healing and offering reiki to others. $150. The Agape House, 603 Geneva Rd, Saint Charles. 630-294-5225. TheAgapeHouse1977@gmail.com Facebook.com/ people/The-Agape-House/61551764653380

Monday, July 21

Reiki Level 1 – 10am-5pm. Get attuned to reiki which enables you to become a channel for this healing energy. 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. ZenShiatsu.edu

Tuesday, July 22

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, July 23

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See July 2 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Thursday, July 24

New Moon – Moon of Long Daylight ONLINE: Life Mission Exploration –7-7:30pm. Personally guided by Sarah Karnes, you will develop a more compassionate and loving relationship with your body, mind and spirit. $15-$25 donation. Zoom. Sarah Karnes: 262-745-8362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland

Friday, July 25

Sports Massage – 9am-6pm. Course presents a general framework for basic sports massage protocols, injury assessment, neurological considerations and special tests. Additional considerations will also be discussed, including precautions, contraindications, intake documentation and hydro/cryo therapy integration. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsu.edu.

Gong Sound Bath Meditation – 6-7:30pm. With Harmony Pavett. $35. Harmonic Egg Naperville, 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville. 630-780-0193. HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

New Moon Women’s Circle –7-8:30pm. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Saturday, July 26

Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing – 8am-12pm. See July 5 listing. Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, 23202 W Renwick Rd, Plainfield. ReconnectWithNature.org

Hydrangeas 101 – 9am-12pm. Learn about selecting, planting and caring for hydrangeas, including heirloom varieties and new cultivars. Featuring garden walks and expert tips for success in the Chicago region. $49. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. MortonArb.org

Posture Analysis for Massage Therapists – 9am-4pm. Focuses on the principles and techniques of posture analysis for massage therapists. Learn how to assess postural patterns, identify common imbalances, and understand their impact on movement and pain. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsu.edu

Bee Walk – 11am. Explore and learn about bees at our local rare Grade A remnant meisc tall grass prairie. James Woodworth Prairie, 9845 N Milwaukee Ave, Glenview. Register: LibbyHill@comcast.net

Soul Mates and Twin Souls – 1-4pm. A soul mate is not always a love interest. Understanding the difference will be explored by Joanne DiMaggio, author, lecturer, regression specialist and long-time A.R.E. speaker who has been researching and exploring reincarnation for over 35 yrs. After the program, Joanne will be available for a Meet the Author gathering and book signing. $56. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Serenity by the Water: Poolside Sound Bath & Reiki Meditation – 4-5:30pm. Take a pause from the hustle and return to calm. Join Jenny Bergold of Light of the World Yoga and Tina McDonald of The Agape House for a transformative Sound Healing and Meditation infused with Reiki poolside. $90. Private Poolside Retreat, Batavia. Register: Tinyurl.com/47y3phb9

Sunday, July 27

SAVE THE DATE

Holistic Health Fair

10am-4pm

Explore holistic health and metaphysical topics, local natural health practitioners and service providers, energy workers, makers of natural products and a wide range of products and services. $5/online advance, $8/day of, free/16 & under.

Chicago Marriott Naperville 1801 N Naper Blvd, Naperville HolisticHealthFair.org

2nd Annual Hearts Connection – 4-6pm. Join us to raise the vibration and change the energy for self and community. All welcome. Free. Grayslake Central Park, 250 Library Ln, Grayslake. 847) 276-1007. CrystalDen.store.

Monday, July 28

Daoyin Qi Cultivation – July 28-29. 12-4pm. Introduces the basic animal forms of daoyin, an ancient Daoist movement practice. Hop and crawl through the 5 phases of water, wood, fire, Earth and metal. These expressive exercises are designed to tonify and release different parts of the body. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsu.edu

Tuesday, July 29

World Tiger Day

ONLINE: Navigating Uncertain Times – 7-7:30pm. This moment in our world challenges us in ways we never imagined. From changes in relationships to jobs to the economy and more, true security and stability are inside jobs. $15-$25 suggested donation. Zoom. Sarah Karnes: 262-7458362. Register: Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland.

Wednesday, July 30

World Day against Trafficking in Persons Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See July 2 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Thursday, July 31

Discovery Isle: Insects – 1-3pm. Drop-in program. Get a closer look by using sweep nets and bug boxes, observe pinned specimens and learn the difference between insects, bugs and arachnids. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. ReconnectWithNature.org

Wheel of the Year Class – 7-8:30pm. With Kate. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Friday, August 8

SAVE THE DATE

Sacred Connections Retreat Aug 8-11

Featuring ceremony, healing, yoga, bodywork, essential oils, healthful meals and more.

Anaway Place in Richland Center, WI Heaven Meets Earth: LisaYoga@comcast.net or HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Saturday, September 6

SAVE THE DATE

TheosoFEST Mind, Body, Spirit Festival 10am-5pm

Includes talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic healing and more. Vegetarian food, a holistic marketplace showcasing more than 100 vendors, a festive Kids’ Korner, intuitive readings, labyrinth walks, tai chi and yoga, and more. Admission free, $5 parking. Theosophical Society 1926 N Main St, Wheaton 630-668-1571 x 315 Theosophical.org/theosofest

Friday, September 19

SAVE THE DATE

Women’s Mycelium Mysteries Conference

Sept 19-21

Hosted by Midwest Women’s Herbal. Features workshops and mushroom forays covering diverse topics such as cultivation techniques, culinary delights, medicinal applications, wild harvesting and the art of mushroom and tree identification. Speakers including ecologist and author Dr. Alison Pouliot; mycophile, author and photographer Barbora Batokova; and mycologist and biologist Sarah Foltz Jordan. Almond, WI

Tickets & to register: MidwestWomensHerbal.com

Sunday, October 12

SAVE THE DATE

Illuminate Naperville 10am-5pm

Features vetted intuitive readers, crystals, essential oils, original art, energy healing including reiki, crystal jewelry, luxurious spa products, handmade gifts, free workshops and more.

Chicago Marriott Naperville 1801 N Naper Blvd, Naperville IlluminateFestivals.com

Saturday, November 1

SAVE THE DATE

17th Annual Green Living Expo 10am-3pm

Enjoy interactive opportunities, including renewable energy and solar displays, composting demonstrations, green home solutions, eco-gift shopping and tours of the college’s student farm and new buildings.

McHenry County College

8900 US Hwy 14, Crystal Lake McHenry.edu/greenexpo

SAVE THE DATE

McHenry County Repair Fair 11am-2pm

Volunteers of all repair skill levels are welcome, from novice hobbyists to experienced technicians. Fair aims to expand repair services to include jewelry, eyeglasses and potentially musical instruments, alongside returning offerings such as bicycle, small appliance, clock, fabric and lamp repairs.

McHenry County College

8900 US Hwy 14, Crystal Lake

To volunteer, Kim or Ashley: KHankins@McHenry.edu McHenry.edu/greenexpo

Friday, January 23, 2026

SAVE THE DATE

Glisten Winter Wellness Retreat Jan 23-25

Reignite your inner light at this immersive 3-day retreat featuring movement, music, creativity and self-evolving workshops at the newly renovated Lake Lawn Resort. Includes lodging, meals, sound baths, ecstatic dance and an interactive music experience with Georgia Rae. Early bird registrants receive free Thursday night lodging. $1,999.

2400 E Geneva St, Delavan, WI 847-722-9653 MoonBeaman.com

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

SoftWave Therapy Special – Thru July. With Dr. Colin Quinn. SoftWave Therapy appointments with him are just $80 (regularly $150). Health Clarified 2165 Shermer Rd, Ste A, Northbrook. For more info or for an appt: 224-344-8668 or HealthClarifiedNow.com

Wild Onion Market Co-op – 8am-8:30pm. Offering fresh, local and sustainably sourced food 7 days a week. Wild Onion Market, 7007 N Clark St, Chicago. WildOnionMarket.com

Smithsonian Gardens’ “Pollination Investigation” Exhibit – 10am-4pm, WedSun. Exhibit takes participants on an exploration of the who, what, when, where, why and how of pollination by interpreting the unique relationship between pollinators and flowers. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. ReconnectWithNature.org

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

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

Glenwood Sunday Market – Thru Oct 26. 9am-2pm. Closed Aug 17. Glenwood Ave between Morse & Lunt Aves, Rogers Park. GlenwoodSundayMarket.rpba.org

Revive and Restore – 10am. With Dan Bulf. Burn Boot Camp Evanston, 9412 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. Tinyurl.com/y9avumwf

Kundalini Yoga & Meditation – 10-11:30am. Join us for weekly Kundalini yoga classes to work your body, relieve your mind and uplift your spirit. Schedule: Mon & Wed, 9:30am; Sat: 6pm; Sun: 10am & 4:30pm. All

levels. $21. Inspire Yoga & Wellness Center, 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village. 312-593-4366. InspireYogaWellness.com

Rocio Sagrado at the Farmers Market+ at the Dole – 10am-2pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Farmers Market+ at the Dole Mansion, 400 Country Club Rd, Crystal. FarmersMarketAtTheDole.org

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

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

5Rthyms Ecstatic Dance – 1-2:30pm. With Clay Henley. A dynamic practice to both workout and meditate in the same breath. Class pass or $30/drop-in. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Hot Power – 3pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd

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

C1 Foundations – 4:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd

Sound Bath & Yoga Nidra – 6pm. With Rebecca. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

Monday

Yoga Workout – 7pm. With Mary Lou. A dynamic blend of movement, strength and flow. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

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

ONLINE: Ascension Tribe Weekly Monday Night Energy Tune-Up – 8pm. Zoom. Register for free: TryAscensionTribe.com

Tuesday

Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Massage) – Also Thurs. With Kasia. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

Rocio Sagrado at the Woodstock Farmers Market – 8am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherpeutic fragrances and roll-ons,

and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Woodstock Farmers Market, 112 S Benton St, Woodstock. WoodstockFarmersMarket.org

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

Double Gong – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues. Experience deep relaxation with sound healing. Yogi Tea served in our beautiful The Breathing Space studio. $30. Heaven Meets Earth Yoga Studio, 2746 Central St, Evanston. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

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

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. Walk-ins 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

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – 7am1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

Ravinia Farmers Market – Thru Oct 29. 7am-1pm. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com

Rocio Sagrado at the Ravinia Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RavinaFarmersMarket.com

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

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

Thursday

Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Massage) – Also Tues. With Kasia. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

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

Shiatsu Student Clinic – 9:30 & 10am. 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. ZenShiatsu.edu

Tarot Readings – 4-8pm. With Lisa Maria. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

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

Hot Power – 5:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd

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.

CoreRestore – 7pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd

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

Deerfield Farmers Market – Thru Oct 11. 7am-12:30pm. Park Ave between Jewett Park Dr and Hazel Ave. Deerfield.il.us/301/Farmers-Market

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – 7am1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

All-Level Vinyasa – 8am. With Dan Bulf. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Green City Market: West Loop – Thru Nov. 8am-1pm. 900 W Monroe 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

Free Aura Reading – 11:15am-12:15pm. See Sun listing. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642. BodyNBrain.com/northbrook

advertisers know you found them in

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

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.

Help Wanted

WE’RE HIRING – Harmonic Egg-Naperville is looking for someone who has experience in coaching or similar healing modalities, is compassionate and heart-centered, and excited to be part of a holistic, high-vibe environment. Plus, we’ll cover the cost of a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Certification so you can be fully trained to offer this powerful healing service. Please send your resume to Contact@HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

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

Services

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

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@Nirvana AIM and Instagram: @nirvanaacu. Major insurance carriers accepted. Call 847-715-9044 to schedule your consultation so we can help you feel your best!

Bodywork

BECKY’S HEALING TOUCH AND SOUND

610 W Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton 60187 224-612-2400

RPMassage08@gmail.com

MassageBook.com/therapists/becky-shealing-touch-and-sound

With 17 years of experience in massage therapy and 2 years in sound healing, I offer separate, specialized services to support physical and emotional well-being. My massage practice focuses on therapeutic, client-centered care, while my sound healing sessions create a restorative space for relaxation, balance and inner alignment.

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 ads on pages 15 and 27.

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.

Animal Communication

ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR

CAROL SCHULTZ

815-531-2850

Carol@CarolSchultz.com

CarolSchultz.com

Animal communications and intuitive healing for over 25 yrs. Carol provides compassionate and insightful consultations along with creator-based energy balancing for all animal species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, health, harmony, end-of-life, grief support and connections with animals in spirit. Professional phone sessions, barn visits and special events. Optional MP3 recordings. Gift certificates. Lectures, Basic/Advanced workshops.

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.

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, 37 and 55.

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 43.

Energy, Reiki & Sound Healing

HARMONIC EGG-NAPERVILLE

1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville 60563 630-780-0193

HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com

Visit our center to experience the patented Harmonic Egg—a relaxing, non-invasive therapy using light and sound to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and calm your nervous system. Clients report better sleep, less stress and improved healing. Also available: state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber. Use promo code NATURALAWAKENINGS20 to save 20% off services for Harmonic Egg. See ad on page 10.

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.

Fresh Foods & Juices

FOREST GREENS JUICE BAR

123 N Waukegan Rd, Ste 100, Lake Bluff 60044

708-658-4231

ForestGreensJuiceBar.com

Forest Greens Juice Bar is dedicated to clean eating and healthy living. We use organic, gluten-free produce to make cold-pressed juices, smoothies, meals, and snacks—all made on-site. With options for everyone, including vegan choices, we prioritize wellness and sustainability for a vibrant, healthy lifestyle. See ad on page 33.

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 27.

Garden and Native Plant Resources

POSSIBILITY PLACE NURSERY

7548 W Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee 60449

708-534-3988

PossibilityPlace.com

Environmentally focused. Ecologically minded. Possibility Place Nursery has been Chicagoland’s native plant purveyor since 1983. We specialize in growing native plants from locally sourced ecotypes to increase biodiversity and improve ecological function of vast wild areas to small urban backyards, alike. We look forward to building habitat with you.

Healthy Home Inspection & Construction

HOLISTIC DWELLINGS LLC

Making Your Home a Sanctuary For Healing

John Lack: Certified Building Biologist, Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist, Environmental Consultant HolisticDwellingsLLC.com

Your home’s environment has a dramatic effect on your health. Electro-magnetic radiation, mold, geopathic stress, ion balance, VOCs, all affect the human body at the cellular level. Nature is the gold standard in which a healthy human-built indoor environment must be measured. Holistic Dwellings; EMF Assessment & Mitigation/New Build Consultant.

Holistic & Airway Dentistry

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

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.

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.

Home Services

ALLUME FOUNDATION

Jody Casden, Home Organizer

Chicagoland & Illinois River Valley 847-989-5721

AllumeFoundation@gmail.com

What’s good for the home, is good for the heart. Our approach to space is conscientiousness and attention to detail, because we care. Make your space serve you well once again. Reach your goals quickly and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Proceeds support our mission and a schoolhouse renovation near Starved Rock State Park. See ad on page 17.

REFACING PROS, INC

David Casden, Owner 888 E Belvidere Rd, Ste 412, Grayslake 60030

847-520-9763

RefacingPros.com

Could your kitchen or bathroom use an upgrade? Look and feel like new for a fraction of the cost. Refacing is a great green option. We will beat any competition for quality and value. Family owned and operated for over 25 years. We support Made in USA. Call today.

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

Intuitive Consultation

HEATHER FAUN BASL

Intuitive, Medium & Healer 312-502-1539

Heather@HeatherFaunBasl.com

HeatherFaunBasl.com

Heather offers phone and text readings, mediumship, and remote energy healing to help you find clarity, peace, and direction. She bridges the spiritual and physical realms, offering connection, insight, support, healing and guidance tailored to your soul’s unique journey. 22 years of experience.

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 10.

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.

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

Meditation & Spiritual Centers

CHICAGO MEDITATION CENTER OF SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest 60305 ChicagoMeditationCenter.org/ srflessons.org

Every sunset is an opportunity to reset.

—Richie Norton

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 9.

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 35.

PSYCHIC READINGS GLENVIEW

2834 Golf Rd, Glenview 60025 847-470-0049

PsychicsReadingsGlenview.com

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.

Men’s Health & Wellness

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 11.

Midwifery

MOON PHASES OF LIFE MINISTRY

Sacred Wise Woman, Amy Luebke

224-730-1940

MoonPhasesOfLife@gmail.com

MoonPhasesOfLife.com

Holistic sovereign support for every stage of life. Offering homebirth midwifery, placenta encapsulation, naturopathy, botanical remedies, reiki, teen wellness and first moon ceremonies, end-of-life support, bereavement, travel phlebotomy and functional testing. I honor your autonomy, accepting HSA/FSA, insurance for labs and tests, and provide superbills. Visit MoonPhasesOfLife.com to embrace your journey naturally. See ad on page 15.

Pet Wellness

DOGS4LIFE TRAINING & WELLNESS

Stop Guessing Start Solving

Pet Sensitivity Testing

630-901-4597 | Dogs4Life.com

Is your dog struggling with digestive issues, itchy skin or irritability? They may be suffering from food sensitivities. The Whole Pet Wellness Profile tests 750+ food and environmental factors to uncover hidden triggers. Paired with custom meal plans, we provide a clear path to better health, improved digestion and lasting relief.

Reflexology

JASMIN REFLEXOLOGY

773-979-5351

JJahal@hotmail.com

JasminReflexology.com

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.

Skeletal Strengthening

OSTEOSTRONG

126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091 224-408-2369

195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195

224-208-8616

OsteoStrong.me

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 35.

Thermography

ILLINOIS THERMOGRAPHY

Map And Track Your Health! 50+ locations in the Chicago area 847-363-3314

IllinoisThermography.com

The highly sensitive thermal scan is crucial in prevention and early screening for breast and body health. Thermal imaging can show precursors to heart disease, vascular obstruction, lymphatic congestion, autoimmune disorders, skeletal dysfunction and neural dysfunction in anyone. Early detection and prevention are always less complicated than treatment. See ad on page 17.

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 19.

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 listing on page 38.

Stop playing WHACK-A-MOLE with your digestion .

Many people live with unresolved gas, bloating, belching, constipation, diarrhea, cravings and poor sleep. Have you tried remedies and recommendations that just leave you feeling the same? With over 2,500 happily-resolved clients, relief is just a phone call away.

BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU

2-Weekend Intensive

July 11-13 and 18-20

Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

Oct 10-12 and 17-19

Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

10-Week Sessions

Sep 9 - Nov 11, Tuesdays 10am-1pm

Sep 11 - Nov 13, Thursdays 7-10pm

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

Earn your massage license while studying holistic therapy!