Natural Awakenings Houston March 2022

E E HEALTHY LIVING FR

HEALTHY

PLANET

PLANTS GO MAINSTREAM VEGAN FOOD TRENDS OFFER MORE VARIETY AND EASE DELICIOUS PLANTBASED MEAT SUBSTITUTES HOW TO TURN BURNOUT AROUND ANN ARMBRECHT ON ETHICAL BOTANICALS

March 2022 | Houston Metro-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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Read this month’s articles for clues.

Across 1 Popular plant-based foods, 2 words 8 Spiritual advisers 9 Produced without using chemicals in the food 11 Used before a vowel 12 Brain child 14 Calming discipline 15 Scottish cap 17 Up on the latest trends 18 Vex 19 Display of information 22 Innovative 23 Mountain cabin 24 Break out 25 Cleansing substance 26 Possess 27 ___ out: extreme exhaustion from too much stress 28 Football score 29 Shine 30 Insult, in slang

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Down 1 First global exchange traded fund of plant-based companies 2 Spice used in cooking for flavor enhancement, 2 words 3 Problem to be resolved 4 Online diary 5 Indian rhythms 6 Seemingly forever 7 Marked by friendly companionship with others 10 “___ luck?”

13 A long way off 15 Fair ____: an equitable way of doing business with suppliers 16 The root structure of mushrooms: an infinite self-replenishing food source 18 One remedy for stress and burn-out 20 Non-dairy milk 21 Give ____: show gratitude 27 Degree, abbr.

See Answers on Page 29

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Contents

Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 40+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 713-927-6540 or email: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com.

Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

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Eco Tip: The 411 on Styrofoam

10 10

Feng Shui Tips for a Happy Home

11

Plant-Based Foods Go Mainstream

15

Working with the Magic of the Sun

17

Easing into a Vegan Lifestyle

21

Burnout Recovery

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Ann Armbrecht on The Business of Ethical Botanicals

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Email articles, news items and ideas to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com.

Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

Email Calendar Events to: mike@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.

15

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If you have missed the deadline ask about our “Red-Eye Special” and our digital placements.

REGIONAL MARKETS

Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag. com

2 crossword puzzle

27 calendar

4 letter from the publisher

28 healthy living guide

5 affirming naturally

3

letter from publishers

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Greetings!

As I write this, it’s late February and we have had another cool snap maybe the last one before spring arrives. The oak trees are still winter barren and the new buds have not yet appeared.

Maybe the oak trees know something about how soon spring will come. Cindy has enjoyed all the birds that have stopped at our feeders as they migrate south, the cardinals, the warblers and the chickadees. We think we have spotted our first pair of eagles circling the property last week. They were too big to be hawks and didn’t look like vultures so maybe. We have started planning our garden. Cindy is tending toward herbs and flowers and I’m looking at vegetables but there is room for both and room to spare.

This month’s magazine has lots of interesting information that will help you ease into a healthier plant-based diet. The farmer’s markets will be fully stocked soon and if you are not able to grow your own, we encourage you to support local farmers and local healthy restaurants that feature their products. This month we focus the spotlight on Mo’ Better Brews and Finca Tres Robles/Base 3 Farms. Next month we will look at more ways we can build a more sustainable community together.

Until then, may your days and nights be softer and may you spread kindness where ever you go.

HOUSTON EDITION PUBLISHERS

Cindy & Mike Hart

EDITOR & DESIGN Mike Hart CREATIVE

Cindy Hart

SALES

Minny Payne

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Doyle Ward Minnie Payne Anthony Rios WEBSITE

Mike Hart

CONTACT US

446 West 19th Street, Suite 419 Houston, TX 77008 713-927-6540 NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Cindy & Mike Hart

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© 2022 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

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

Shaman Spirits Anthony Rios 409-762-6027 shamanspirits.net

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.

NUTRITIONAL HEALTH EXPERT Whole Health Wellness and Nutrition Erin Thole erinthole.com thole.erin@gmail.com

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MARCH 2022

CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Layout & Design Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan

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.

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

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

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I believe in limitless possibilities.

by Doyle Ward

You have more than 55,000 thoughts each day. Many are the same thoughts over and over again. Every single one is an affirmation; this also includes everything that you say. By reducing your negative thoughts and words and increasing the positive ones, you can reshape your life. Expecting a better day helps to create a better life. The only place we have to take action or make changes is the present. This month’s affirmation can help create a better life.

I believe in limitless possibilities.

When you can allow yourself to stretch, grow and reach without self-imposed limitations you open up your world to the endless possibilities that are waiting for you.

The only thing that you’re guaranteed in life is this moment. Working with positive affirmations can radically change your mindset. Say them and write them repeatedly with the feeling that they are your truth. You have the power to make great changes in yourself and the world.

Doyle Ward, Blissful Quests ® Doyle Ward is a successful life coach, workshop leader and lecturer in the field of personal development.

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Get to the Root Cause of Your Health Conditions Specializing in: • Digestive Issues • Fatigue • Food Cravings • Mood Swings • Hormonal Imbalances • Fertility • Weight Issues • Auto Immune Conditions • Aches & Pains • and More Erin Thole,CNHP Reach Your TRUE Health Potential With: Food Sensitivity, Hormonal, Toxicity, and Nutritional Deficiency Panels Nutritional Programs & More Set up your FREE consultation by emailing: thole.erin@gmail.com To learn how Erin has helped others just like you visit: www.ErinThole.com

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Sahaja Yoga Meditation Workshops March 7th-28th

The 411 on Styrofoam

eco tip

Why We Should Just Say No

Sahaja yoga meditation is a technique which involves the awakening of a subtle energy that resides in every human irrespective of caste, creed, nationality, religion or color.

This energy, when awakened, integrates individual consciousness with the universal consciousness. This process often referred to as Self-realization or kundalini awakening. Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi developed this technique to enable this awareness to be given to the masses. She was internationally recognized for her contribution to the humanity through a lifetime of work for peace and the wellbeing of mankind. She received awards and citations from the governments of many countries in recognition of her selfless efforts for social improvement. Many people practice Sahaja Yoga across the US and there are many meditation programs conducted daily across America.

When the kundalini is awakened in a person it brings about a balance within their being.

A rejuvenated human being finds unknown depths of energy and creativity to better his living conditions; and to lead a more meaningful life. The practice of Sahaja Yoga makes a person calm and collected and able to cope more easily and effectively with the strains and stresses of life. It not only prevents but also cures the innumerable diseases which are the outcome of modern day living – such as high blood pressure, heart diseases, diabetes, mental disorders, etc.

Sahaja yoga is widely practiced in Houston.

Meditation programs are currently being conducted online for the general public and for people who have been practicing it for a few years. Everyone can join using WEBEX on weekdays and weekends. Anyone can join via link below https://amrutakarnik.my.webex.com/meet/ houstonsy All the programs are free and open to all.

In month of March, a 21-day workshop is organized between March 7th-28th at 8:45 pm-10:00 pm (EST). Workshop sessions will be streamed live on Zoom and YouTube. Please visit houston-meditation.org or contact at houstonsy@outlook.com for more details.

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MARCH 2022

Because it is heat-resistant, extremely lightweight and relatively sturdy, Styrofoam is commonly used for takeout food and beverage containers, egg cartons, craft materials, home insulation and product packaging. The harm it causes to human health and the planet outweighs its convenience, however, and a growing number of cities in Asia, Europe and the U.S. have banned its use, including Minneapolis, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, New York City and Washington, D.C. The word Styrofoam, which stands for a polystyrene plastic foam made from nonrenewable crude oil, is actually a trademark owned by the Dow Chemical Company in more than 90 countries. Despite city restrictions and growing concern over its safety, 3 million tons of it is produced every year in the U.S. Human Health Risks Two known toxins—benzene and styrene—are released during the manufacture of this puffed, #6 plastic. The toxins are also released whenever it is subjected to heat—by contact with a hot beverage or in the microwave, for example. In a 1986 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study, styrene was detected in the fatty tissue of every man, woman and child tested. The tens of thousands of people that live and work in environments with high concentrations of styrene have higher instances of cancer, neurological issues, headaches, depression and fatigue, while chronic exposure to benzene is believed to cause blood disorders, negative reproductive effects and increased incidence of leukemia.

Environmental Impacts The manufacturing process of polystyrene was rated as the fifth-largest source of hazardous waste by a 1986 EPA report. It is estimated that 680 pounds of greenhouse gas are emitted to produce 10,000 plastic foam cups. Styrofoam is virtually non-biodegradable, and only 1 percent of it is recycled. Approximately 2.3 million tons end up in landfills every year, releasing toxins into the air and breaking into smaller particles that make their way into waterways, polluting the human drinking supply and posing great risk to marine life that ingests microplastics.

Better Alternatives It is best to avoid using Styrofoam altogether, opting instead for plantbased, stainless steel, ceramic or glass containers to carry food and beverages. Choose manufacturers and shipping companies that use biodegradable packing materials instead of foam. At the grocery store, purchase eggs in paperboard cartons and get fresh cuts of meat from the butcher rather than those packed in foam trays. At home, select Earth-friendly insulation and steer clear of foam-based craft supplies.

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Run 10 Minutes for a Brain Boost

Exercise is used by people of all ages to elevate a sluggish mood, and new research shows that a mere 10 minutes of moderate-intensity running also boosts cognitive function.

In tests with 26 subjects, researchers from the University of Tsukuba, in Japan, found that a short burst of running improved the set of cognitive processes involved in planning, organizing and self-control by increasing blood flow to the bilateral prefrontal cortex. “Given that running is a whole-body locomotive exercise, it may confer more mental health benefits compared to other forms of exercise such as cycling,” says study author Hideaki Soya, Ph.D.

Slippery Situation

Environment Damaged by Winter Road Salt

Road crews in regions impacted by snow and ice dump around 25 metric tons of salt on roadways annually, reducing vehicular accidents by approximately 80 percent. All of this salt is wreaking havoc on the environment and our drinking water, according to a University of Toledo (Ohio) study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment. Bill Hintz, assistant professor of ecology and lead author, states, “The magnitude of the road salt contamination issue is substantial and requires immediate attention.”

Some easy fixes are within reach. Road salt should always be stockpiled in permanent structures with walls and impermeable floors to prevent seepage. De-icing involves treating roads with liquid salt brine before a storm rather than scattering salt after the snow has fallen. Live-edge snowplows with multiple blades connected by springs, rather than conventional plows with a fixed edge, can remove more snow and reduce the need for road salt. Keep in mind that ordinary road salt stops working when the temperature falls below 15 degrees.

According to the Salt Smart Collaborative, based in Illinois, most homeowners use too much salt to treat surfaces around their homes. About 12 ounces of salt (a coffee mug’s worth) can treat a 20-foot-long driveway. To prevent harmful chlorides from reaching rivers and streams, they can sweep up excess salt that remains after a storm and throw it away.

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Reclaim Your Health Naturally!

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Experiencing food allergies?

Call or visit our website for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Gracie Chukwu, ND, CSN, CNC

Houston Holistic Health Clinic 6401 Southwest Freeway Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991 houstonholistichealthclinic.com

HOUSTON METRO

Chiropractic Guide Innate Chiropractic Healing Arts Center Dr. Jackie St.Cyr, DC 8100 Washington Ave, #210 Houston, TX 77007 713-521-2104 n8chiro.com HealthPro Chiropractic & Acupuncture Dr. Alayna E. Pagnani-Gendron, DC 4101 Green Briar Dr. #135 Houston, TX 77098 281-506-0105 healthprochiro.com Franson Chiropractic Dr. Brett V. Franson, DC 1652 South Dairy Ashford Rd. Houston, TX 77077 281-701-1596 fransonchiropractor.com Nominate your chiropractor.

Email their contact info to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Via Colori Houston April 2-3 Via Colori® Houston 2022 is a reimagined creative arts and cultural event drawing thousands of families, artists, and festival goers annually to join in the street painting festival. This event will be held April 2-3, 2022, in downtown Houston at POST, the historic Barbara P. Jordan Post Office. Via Colori means “color street” beckoning us to engage with the environment around us and to connect with our own sense of well-being as we celebrate art and artists.

The Institute for Spirituality and Health is the new charity beneficiary and is honored to welcome sponsors, artists, volunteers, and attendees and Via Colori® Houston. This event promises live music, food, and Via Bambini - an art wonderland for kids of all ages.

The focal point of the festival is to invite artists of all levels to create street paintings inspired by and in support of the mission of The Institute. For more information please visit, viacolorihouston.org and follow the event on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @ viacolorihouston. See Ad page 24

The Face of God

Thursdays, Mar. 3 – Apr. 7 (except Mar. 17), 6 p.m. online From the melting permafrost that threatens churches in Alaska to the wildfires that ravaged California this past year, to the U.S. South where hurricanes are becoming stronger and more deadly, communities around the globe are already feeling the rising impacts of global climate change. The Face of God is a film about God and nature, faith and climate change, and the experience of communities around the world facing and experiencing changes in their lives now. The film showcases important Christian voices, scientists, politicians, lay leaders, theologians, and communities around the world, and gathers the witness of the whole church on the defining issue of our time. Join us online each week to view segments of the film and discuss them. Can’t make it every week? Join as you are able. Register on www.eventbrite.com at: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/the-face-of-god-tickets-252042886057. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs. lrc@gmail.com for more details.

The Magic of the Equinox Sun

Experience the energy of true beauty. March 13 -20, 2022.

Most of us know that sunrises and sunsets are special moments of the day. But what makes the moment so magical? Find out, during a seven-day exploration of the history, rituals, and spirituality of the equinox sun. The equinox sunrise has very special qualities; beauty, balance, and grace. Join Karen and Dominique in this wonderful opportunity to deepen the connection to the sun and experience these qualities.

Because the sun is essential for life, it has been part of rituals and ceremonies since the beginning of time. During our time together, learn and experience working with the sun’s powerful energy. The equinox is a time of grace, balance, and beauty and actually feeling the energy of true beauty is possible.

Participate in simple, but potent exercises.

Discover sacred equinox alignments.

Explore healing rituals from ancient times.

Prepare charged healing water, a secret guarded by the alchemists.

Feel the beauty of the equinox sun and expand your spirituality.

March 13 -20, 2022. $37 Receive daily emails, exercises, short informational videos, and participate in a Zoom session to share personal experiences of the equinox.

Karen and Dominique Susani of Energetic Geometry will be hosting this challenge leading up to and including the equinox. For more information and to register, visit energeticgeometry.com/equinox-sun/

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feng shui naturally

Feng Shui Tips for a Happy Home

by Katherine Ashby

A house is like a second skin. It’s supposed to provide safety and protection from the outside world, but if the building is out of balance energetically, it can have unfavorable side effects on the residents. Changing the environmental energy, or feng shui, of the house has the potential to make life easier.

Each room of the house affects different organs of the body and different life situations.

With a diminished fire element in a south room, for example, the heart, blood flow, eyes, middle daughter and future wealth can suffer; in the southeast, it’s the hips, oldest daughter and investments.

Feng shui is like acupuncture for a building; it gets things flowing again. A property is analyzed according to the five elements of Chinese Traditional Medicine: water, wood, fire, earth and metal. Each element corresponds to different life situations, organs of the body, emotions, directions, individual family members, etc. The list is seemingly endless.

Clear the excess clutter. Clutter represents the earth element and stillness. Empty space is water and movement. There should be a balance of empty and filled-up space in each room. Earth corresponds to the mother and youngest son, marriage and the abdomen. Water is the middle son, sex organs and career. It’s obvious to see how much there is to gain by clearing clutter from around the house because it affects so many people and situations.

Before calling a feng shui professional, here are six things anyone can do to have a more carefree life: Repair things that don’t work properly.

Squeaky doors, leaky faucets and stuck windows may seem like small annoyances, but they are subtle energy drains that can suck the momentum out of work and personal projects. Specific benefits depend on the location of the work done. Repairs in the northwest help business owners or the father; in the west, children benefit the most.

Replace burned out light bulbs, inside and out. Lights correspond to the fire element.

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Make sure the plants on the property, inside and out, are healthy. Plants are considered wood, the element that gives people the “get up and go” energy to get out of bed in the morning. If family members feel sluggish and grumpy all the time, any of the plants ,but especially those in the east, might be a contributing factor. Dead or dying plants create a yin, or declining ,condition. When dead plants are removed or replaced, family harmony is restored and there are fewer arguments. A teenage son may suddenly be much more pleasant to be around.

Remove any strong odors, or “killing breath”, from within or around the building. Musty smells, especially in the heart of a building, can affect the central meridian of the body, which is responsible for calming the body, heart and mind. The center of the home affects everybody that lives there, so the whole family can suffer when the decaying odor of permanently dirty clothes leaks out into the hall from a closet, for example.

Make sure all doors can open and close 100 percent as they are meant to. Unblock them if necessary. All doors correspond to the water element and affect money flow.

The main door warrants special attention.

If it cannot be seen from the street, a coat of bright paint, trimmed back foliage, and more lighting may help. If hinges squeak or is the lock is hard to operate—WD-40 to the rescue.

Some of these things may take a little effort, expense or outside help, but the rewards can be exponential. Feng shui masters say homes and office buildings contribute to about 33 percent of our luck, so just fixing these six items has the potential to make life easier for residents and workers.

For more information about Feng Shui Houston, call 713-688-098 or visit FengShuiHouston.com.

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Plant-Based Foods Go Mainstream Healthy Eating Gets Easier with Innovations

by Carrie Jackson

P

lant-based eating has seen an explosion in the past few

years as consumers become increasingly aware of how their food choices impact their health and the environment and align with their ethics. According to market research firm SPINS, plant-based eating is now a $7 billion market in the U.S., with $1.4 billion represented by plant-based meat. Consumers can now expect to see veggie burgers at the ballpark, vegan dairy at the cafe, tuna substitutes in every grocery store and a plant-based entrée at Michelin-starred restaurants.

Whether vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian, almost 40 percent of Americans are shifting to a plant-based diet, according to a 2018 Nielsen report. While a plant-based diet supplies essential nutrients and reduces the risk for some cancers, consumers now rank the health of the planet as their number one concern, overtaking personal health, which has been the top priority in recent years, according to market researcher Innova Market Insights. Such an eating regimen can lead to a more sustainable use of resources, combat climate change and help preserve biodiversity. According to a University of Illinois study published in the journal Nature Food, animal agriculture is responsible for 57 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions from food production, which accounts for 35 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions.

Plant-Based Companies Align with Values

Elysabeth Alfano, the founder of Plant Powered Consulting, sees a plant-based diet becoming a lifestyle as consumers demand a broader range of options. “It’s becoming increasingly normal to find plant-based foods and meat alternatives in every grocery store. Oat yogurt, seafood alternatives and vegan honey are now mainstream. People are seeing how inefficient and harmful meat production is and are making the connection between saving the environment and their lifestyle choices,” she says.

Alfano is also the co-founder and CEO of VegTech Invest, an investment management firm that is the first global exchange-traded fund of plant-based companies; it launched January 4 on the New York Stock Exchange, comprising 37 publicly traded companies actively innovating with plants and plant-derived ingredients, and producing products that are animal-free. “We believe that today’s investors want a more resource-efficient, climate-friendly and cruelty-free food and materials supply system, and want to invest their dollars in the same,” says Alfano.

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Dairy and Seafood Alternatives Abound

In the grocery store, it’s never been easier to shop for plant-based options. Companies are getting creative and optimizing products that stand on their own merits, instead of just mimicking meat, fish and dairy. With alternatives such as oat, almond and even potato milk touting sustainable credentials, as well as a creamy texture, plantbased dairy is having a surge.

Sales in the plant-based seafood sector grew 23 percent from 2019 to 2020 according to market data from The Good Food Institute. Nestlé recently launched Vuna, a vegan tuna alternative made of pea protein, wheat gluten, rapeseed oil, salt and a flavor blend, and other companies are jumping on board as consumers are becoming more aware of the seafood industry’s environmental problems, particularly overfishing. While a handful are specializing in proteins derived from fermentation and others are developing lab-grown seafood, most are focusing on plant-based products. Due to their fibrous consistency, jackfruit and yam root are ideal fish alternatives for fillets and sticks. Vegan fish stock, as well as plant-based scampi and king prawns, can be found in vegan grocery stores and such online shops as ShopVejii.com and GTFOItsVegan.com.

Mushrooms Become a Plant-Based Superfood

Mushrooms are having a heyday due to their versatility, and companies are harnessing them as a source of fiber, protein and antioxidants. Meati.com is a Boulder-based startup that uses mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, to create a whole-cut product that offers the protein of animal meat with the nutrients of fungi. “We believe that systemic change can start with people replacing animal meat even a couple of times a week. Eating Meati chicken or steak shouldn’t feel like a huge departure from animal products, and the nutrition offered

is superior to any food out there,” says Christina Ra, vice president of marketing and communications. “People can enjoy eating Meati and feel great about how they’re nourishing their bodies.”

With $50 million in recent venture capital funding, the company is building an 80,000-square-foot production facility and plans to start selling its substitute chicken and beef in national markets later this year.

Meati has drawn on ancient, natural processes to grow clean, sustainable sources of nutrition. “Mycelium is an infinite, self-replenishing food source. Made from a closed-loop system, Meati uses less than 1 percent of the water and land needed for animal meat production,” says Ra. The company grows and harvests the mycelium indoors in stainless steel fermentation tanks using only water, sugar and nutrients. Unlike the animal agriculture industry, no antibiotics, growth hormones or pesticides are used.

Vegan Coaching and Delivery Make It Easy

For people that aren’t ready to experiment with plant-based cooking themselves, vegan and vegetarian meal-delivery services are popping up. One such program is Plantable.com, founded by Nadja Pinnavaia and designed to give clients the tools to transition into a plant-based lifestyle. Customers sign up online for either a seven- or 28-day program that includes daily shipped meals, one-on-one counseling through phone calls and texts, and lifestyle recommendations to form new habits. “Our goal is to make plant-based eating so tasty and effortless that it becomes a way of life,” Pinnavaia explains.

She says the idea behind Plantable, which is based in New York, but will ship anywhere in the country, is to make plant-based eating less of a barrier for people. “Most of our clients are either looking to kickstart a new lifestyle and don’t know how to begin, or they are

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

busy and want the ease of prepared meals made from scratch with real, clean ingredients. Our menu is a whole-food, plant-based way of eating that is filled with fiber and packed with nutrients. We focus on legumes, tofu and nuts as sources of protein,” she says.

Pinnavaia, who holds a Ph.D. in quantum chemistry, became interested in food and nutrition after having too many family members diagnosed with cancers. Since launching Plantable in 2016, she has observed more clients coming in on their doctor’s recommendation.

“We’re seeing a shift towards more consumer-driven health care, where doctors are understanding that meal planning and nutrition are critical to overall health. The community in general is also taking more ownership of their own health and gaining more knowledge of the benefits of a plant-based diet,” she says.

Eating Out Gets Healthier

For people dining out, there is no shortage of plant-based options, and that goes beyond a salad and fries. Eleven Madison Park, in New York City, is the first vegan restaurant to receive a Michelin star. Even fast-food chains are getting on board, with McDonald’s introducing the McPlant burger and KFC debuting a Beyond Chicken made of soy and wheat.

Joe Hehl, the founder of Dragged Through the Garden, a Chicago-based company that consults with restaurants and breweries looking to expand vegan options, has seen an uptick in interest.

“Adding a plant-based option or two on the menu can absolutely set some new eyes on a restaurant’s operation. Now this place will show up in searches for ‘restaurants with vegan options’ and appeal to an audience who potentially wouldn’t have eaten there otherwise.

Plus, it’s not super-costly on the bottom line,” he explains.

He adds that the availability of meat substitutes on a menu, such as an Impossible Burger, makes it easy for people trying to cut down on their meat intake. “Mainstream substitutes are a little more accessible than something like a bowl of quinoa to someone who is not vegan. This new era of plant-based burgers offers an alternative for those who want to wind down their meat intake, but are unsure how to start,” he says.

Hehl also offers clients recipes and guides for recreating vegan versions of traditional fast food and kitsch menus. Past recipes have included a Vegan Philly Cheesesteak and the Vegan Chorizo Sloppy Joe, for which he offers step-by-step instructions and encourages followers to have fun and experiment with ingredients such as oat milk. “I grew up in a very meat-and-potatoes household and had no knowledge of cooking whatsoever. As I learned about some of the benefits of a plant-based diet, I decided to embrace it as a challenge to myself,” he says. “My favorite plant-based ingredients to use are garlic powder and smoked paprika! Some people are eating plant-based ingredients without even realizing it.”

Consumers have no shortage of options as plant-based eating and lifestyle choices continue to go mainstream. Companies are meeting the demand with creative, sustainable products and services that are better for the planet, healthier for the body and allow people to align their values with their purchases. As the interest increases, new innovations are likely to explode on the scene and the plant-based followers are ready.

Carrie Jackson is an Evanston, IL-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

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Slippery Situation Environment Damaged by Winter Road Salt

Road crews in regions impacted by snow and ice dump around 25 metric tons of salt on roadways annually, reducing vehicular accidents by approximately 80 percent. All of this salt is wreaking havoc on the environment and our drinking water, according to a University of Toledo (Ohio) study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment. Bill Hintz, assistant professor of ecology and lead author, states, “The magnitude of the road salt contamination issue is substantial and requires immediate attention.”

Some easy fixes are within reach.

Road salt should always be stockpiled in permanent structures with walls and impermeable floors to prevent seepage.

De-icing involves treating roads with liquid salt brine before a storm rather than scattering salt after the snow has fallen.

Live-edge snowplows with multiple blades connected by springs, rather than conventional plows with a fixed edge, can remove more snow and reduce the need for road salt. Keep in mind that ordinary road salt stops working when the temperature falls below 15 degrees.

According to the Salt Smart Collaborative, based in Illinois, most homeowners use too much salt to treat surfaces around their homes. About 12 ounces of salt (a coffee mug’s worth) can treat a 20-foot-long driveway. To prevent harmful chlorides from reaching rivers and streams, they can sweep up excess salt that remains after a storm and throw it away.

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HOUSTON METRO EDITION

sacred geometry

Working with the Magic of the Sun

By Karen Crowley-Susani and Dominique Susani

Equinoxes are genuinely magical times of the year. Night and day, light and darkness are in balance. It was a day where rituals, ceremonies, and even magic were common in ancient times. This article explores a few places connected to the power of the equinox and shares a couple of ways to work with the magic of this special time.

The Spring equinox falls on March 20th, 2022. The word equinox comes from the Latin aequinoctium, from aequus (equal) and nox (noctis) (night). In ancient times this period was called the time of grace and beauty. Our ancestors loved the sun and tracked its travels in the sky. Many temples were aligned to the sun and its annual rhythms. The directions of solstice and equinox sunrises and sunsets were called the seven sacred directions, which includes the axis mundi, the vertical axis connecting the earth to the heavens.

In Paleolithic times, sacred painted caves like Lascaux in France were oriented in one or more of these seven directions. At Lascaux, the equinox sunset would illuminate some of the paintings inside for a few brief moments.

Neolithic people aligned their massive stone structures to the first or last of the sun’s rays during the equinox and solstices. Called dolmens, covered passageways, or burial mounds, their complex functions involved rituals and spirituality. Sacred places oriented to the sun captured the essence and energy of the sun’s first or last light. An example of an equinox sunrise alignment is at the Mnjadra temple complex in Malta. On the morning of the equinox, the sun’s rays shine through the central passageway of the Lower Temple, illuminating a small shrine inside.

Many cultures captured the sun’s energy in a bowl of water.

Charging this water in this manner on the equinox imbued it with magical qualities. For example, at places in Ireland, like Newgrange Monument and the Loughcrew Cairn complex, carved stone bowls could be illuminated by the sun during the solstices and equinoxes.

We can experience the powerful energy of the equinox sun too. One way is to make a pilgrimage to a sacred place aligned with this time.

Traveling to Mexico is relatively easy. At Chichen Itza, dedicated to the serpent rain-god, Kukulkán, is a pyramid called El Castillo.

During the equinox, the sun hits the pyramid at a precise angle, creating a snake’s shadow slithering down the pyramid steps. A representation for the Mayans of their god, Kukulkán fertilizing the earth with water from the cosmos.

In the US, Chaco Canyon in New Mexico also aligns with the equinox sunrise at Casa Rinconada. It shines through the east and west windows of the kiva and is a popular place to experience the magic of the equinox sunrise. But not many people live near a sacred place. If you want to stay home, there are a couple of things you can do to connect with the power and beauty of the equinox sun.

One interesting exercise is to go outside before sunrise, find a place to sit and observe the sun. What direction does it rise? How does it feel when the sun’s rays first hit the land? By doing this for several days or even weeks, a sensitivity to the sun’s energy takes place.

Then on the morning of the equinox, watch the sunrise. Notice the change in the quality of the sun’s power.

Another way to work with the equinox is to charge water with the sun’s energy. As ancient people did, prepare a bowl of water for the equinox on March 20th. It is easy to do. Use a clean bowl and good water. Position the bowl, making sure that the first sunrise rays touch it. Use a special altar cloth and crystals to make the space more sacred. After the water is charged, drink it, noting the change in taste and quality.

The following way is to make a flower essence with the equinox sun. First, do a meditation with the plant and ask permission to take a few flowers. When communicating with the plant, be aware that sometimes the answer is no. If this is the case, move on to another

15

flower and do the same thing. After finding an agreeable plant, place a clean bowl filled with distilled water next to your plant. Cut a few of the most vibrant flowers and let them drop into the water. Take care not to touch the flowers. Do another meditation and ask the deva of the flower for assistance in making the flower essence strong.

Leave the flowers in the water for 20 min. Then strain and drink sips throughout the week. If you want to preserve it, fill a glass bottle with 30% preservative, usually vodka, brandy, or vinegar, and the rest with your water.

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Lastly, be an alchemist. At dawn on the equinox, use a sheet of linen to capture the dew on the grass or plants. When the cloth is soaked, squeeze the water into a bowl and filter it. This water contains exceptional energy and was used by alchemists to create their magical potions.

These are a few ways to connect deeply with the energy, balance, and grace of the Spring equinox. By working with this special time of the year, one can find an understanding and appreciation of our ancestor’s rituals and spirituality and deepen their own.

Karen Crowley-Susani and Dominique Susani are sacred geometry and geobiology experts and authors of Secrets of Sacred Geometry, Solar Geometry for Health and Life, Ad Quadratum, Geometry of the Square of Nebbiu Cathedral, and Earth Alchemy, Aligning your Home with Nature’s Energies. Sacred Santa Fe from Triple Enclosure Publishing is scheduled to be published in March 2022 Brittany, France. https://energeticgeometry.com karen@energeticgeometry.com See ad page 29

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

conscious eating

Easing into a Vegan Lifestyle CLEVER MEAT SUBSTITUTES THAT PLEASE THE PALATE

by Sheila Julson

T

oday’s wide availability of vegan meat substitutes in the grocer’s freezer helps break the ice for people that want to experiment with plant-based foods.

The taste, convenience and quality of these products has improved greatly over the past decade, but like many convenience foods, some packaged faux meat products can be high in sodium or fillers. While packaged, meat-alternative products are ideal for a tasty occasional treat, there’s a whole world of options beyond the freezer aisle for those that want to expand their vegan palates.

Arielle and Brandon Hawthorne, co-owners of Twisted Plants, a popular, plant-based restaurant in the Milwaukee area, make their vegan food approachable by creating plantbased foods that mimic everyday, non-plantbased options. “I think that motivates people to try it because they feel they can still have the same flavor and taste they’re used to, but in a healthier version,” Arielle says. They use items like jackfruit, a species of tree in the fig family, which takes on the taste and consistency of pulled pork when shredded and marinated in sauces or spices.

Going plant-based does not mean going without. Del Sroufe, a vegan chef based in Columbus, Ohio, culinary specialist at the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutritional Studies and author of the Forks Over Knives companion cookbook, recommends that people craft satisfying, plant-based entrées at home by starting with recipes they like, and then looking for plant-based versions of those. “If you like pizza, you can still have pizza. If you like Italian cuisine, there are plenty of Italian recipes,” he says.

Priyanka Naik, a self-taught Indian vegan chef, Food Network champion and author of the new vegan cookbook The Modern Tiffin, advises to gradually start a plant-based diet with one meat-free day per week and then increase. She adds that when eating out, opt for vegetarian or vegan options to be sure a plant-based lifestyle is sustainable outside of the home kitchen.

17

Substitutes at Home

The concept of protein at the center of every dinner plate has been ingrained in American culture. Dismantling that perspective opens up a whole new world and encourages thinking about vegetarian and vegan food in a new light, Naik says.

Sroufe adds that we often believe we won’t get enough protein from plant-based foods. “There’s been a lot of science to refute that. The World Health Organization has identified people that exist healthfully on less than 6 percent protein in their diets.”

Fruits, vegetables and grains are often more economical than packaged convenience foods, especially when purchased from local farmers markets. Pasta, rice and beans, which can be purchased in bulk, are budget-friendly. Naik cooks with the objective of putting vegetables at the forefront, using her Indian ancestry and global influences to make veggies the star of the show.

Cauliflower and eggplant can be prepared in “steak” form as a main course or stand in as healthier versions of pub-food appetizers like buffalo chicken wings. For those craving meatier flavors, chickpea flour becomes crumbly when water is added, effecting a good substitute for ground beef. Adding chipotle, cumin and other seasonings emulates taco meat. “Chickpea flour is high in protein and is used in a lot of Indian cuisine,” Naik says. “You can buy the flour or grind dry chickpeas to make the flour.”

Jackfruit adapts easily to myriad recipe styles. Sroufe notes it can be used in dumplings and tacos. Hawthorne also uses it to make vegan ribs and in beef-style stews.

Don’t toss that banana peel—Naik says using clean, organic banana peels after the flesh has been removed is a zero-waste approach to plant-based eating. Cooks can shred the peel with a fork and sauté it with soy sauce and other spices to mimic pulled meat.

Tofu gets a bad rap, Sroufe says, noting that many people worldwide eat soy products without experiencing digestive issues. He often uses tofu for a number of presentations. “Silken tofu can be used to make pudding. Crumbled tofu can be substituted for ricotta in lasagna, or you can marinate tofu to make bacon for sandwiches. It’s a good, filling food.”

Sroufe also uses millet as a base for meatloaf, meatballs and sloppy joes. Several mushroom varieties have meaty textures, and when battered and fried, they emulate fried chicken. Hawthorne also uses mushrooms as a meat replacement in Philly cheese steak sandwiches. Seitan, made with a vital wheat gluten base, can be used for meatballs.

By experimenting with an array of vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds to create balanced textures and flavors, even the choosiest omnivores won’t miss the meat.

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

“Because when you stop and look around, this life is pretty amazing.” ~Dr. Seuss

18

MARCH 2022

Why we went vegan: an interview with Chastie Lindsay

by Mike Hart

Switching to a plant-based diet can be a big leap or a series of small steps, and everyone has their own reasons and their own path. With an emphasis on plant-based eating, we are asking local chefs and restauranteurs their top reasons for choosing a plant-based, vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

Chasitie Lindsay, of Mo’Better Brews, says. “We started our vegan journey because we wanted to improve our overall health. We, like many others who watch the documentary What the Health? on Netflix back in 2017 were made aware of the many health issues caused by consumption of meat and dairy products.

“Once we started eating vegan, we noticed a change in our energy.

The more fresh fruit and veggies we consumed, the more lighter we felt and energized we became. While we initially adopted a vegan diet for health reasons, it was plus that we also are able to help save the lives of many animals.

“Eating a vegan diet has greatly reduced our chances of getting sick. Over the years, we would catch severe colds, stomach viruses, as well as sinus infections annually, but since we’ve become vegan, we very rarely get sick, and if we do, we recover pretty quickly with natural remedies, as opposed to over-the-counter medications.”

Lindsay advises, “We recommend adopting a vegan diet because simply put, it can improve your overall quality of life by not putting dead things into your body.”

Mo’ Better Brews is located at 1201 Southmore Blvd., in Houston.

For more information, call 832-740-4297 or visit MoBetterBrews. com.

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Plant-Based Options BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES

This healthier version of buffalo wings is meat-free and baked instead of fried, but full of flavor and spice. It can be eaten plain or, as Sroufe recommends, as a Buffalo Po’ Boy sandwich, served on a whole-grain hoagie or sandwich buns with cabbage and peanut slaw. ½ cup water ¼ cup almond butter ½ cup red hot sauce, plus extra for tossing with the cooked bites ¾ cup whole-wheat pastry flour ¼ cup nutritional yeast 1 ½ Tbsp granulated garlic 1 large-head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch florets (about 6 cups) Preheat the oven to 375° F. Combine everything except the cauliflower in a large bowl.

Mix well. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until thoroughly coated.

Place the coated florets on a nonstick baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Toss with extra red hot sauce if desired.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Del Sroufe.

ONE-PAN SKILLET EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA Inspired by the Italian restaurants of her Staten Island neighborhood while growing up, Naik has created a vegan version of this Italian favorite.

1 Tbsp neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil) 1 medium-sized Italian eggplant, split in half lengthwise 2 tsp olive oil 1 tsp Calabrian chili oil 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 sprig of fresh oregano 1 cup of jarred marinara

sauce 1 sprig of fresh basil (extra for garnishing) 3-4 Tbsp water 1 Tbsp sugar 1 Tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp red pepper flakes 4 slices vegan mozzarella ⅓ cup plain breadcrumbs Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pour about 1 Tbsp neutral oil into a medium or large nonstick skillet. Heat over medium-high flame. Meanwhile, score the meat of the eggplant in crosshatches. Do not to cut all the way through the skin.

Place eggplant slices meat side down into the hot skillet and cover with a lid. After 3 to 4 minutes, check the eggplant to be sure it’s turning golden brown; if it looks charred, lower the heat. Cover with lid and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Flip eggplant slices (meat side should be tender and able to pierce with a fork).

Sprinkle with a bit of kosher salt, cover with the lid and cook another 4 to 5 minutes. Eggplant should be very soft, fork tender and cooked, but not falling apart. Remove from pan.

Lower heat slightly and pour in olive oil and Calabrian chili oil.

Once hot, add garlic, sautéing until slightly golden. Add the sprig of oregano.

Once super-fragrant, pour in the jar of sauce and a sprig of basil and water. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add sugar, tomato paste, salt, black pepper and chili flakes. Mix until incorporated and smooth. Once the sauce starts bubbling, add eggplants meat side-up.

Cover the lid and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Put cheese slices on top of the eggplant and close with the lid. While the cheese is melting, toast breadcrumbs in a separate pan. Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toast until golden brown and crispy. Turn off heat.

Remove lid from eggplant and once cheese is fully melted, top with breadcrumbs and fresh basil, and remove from heat.

Serve with Italian crusty bread.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Priyanka Naik.

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new things and take risks to create something special. “Meet your food, know your farmer.”

Inspiring Innovation

Top Five Reasons to Buy Locally Sourced Food

Innovation occurs at intersections, and making agriculture accessible to more people through local participation increases the opportunities to inspire innovation. Get to know chefs, food entrepreneurs, engineers and artists that find something unique in farming that they never would have expected.

by Daniel Garcia-Prats

Deeper Understanding of Where We Live

Superior Quality

Tasting the real thing means having it fresh. Buying locally means superior freshness, taste, nutritional value and transparency.

Building Community

Agriculture is about people as much as plants. Attending farmers markets regularly or joining a local community supported agriculture (CSA) plan connects us to others that share our passion and builds a strong, resilient, committed community of local food lovers. The local food community in Houston has been fantastic. We only succeed together.

Investing in Home

By buying local food, we are supporting local farmers and investing in the food community.

Knowing that we have a city and community that supports local food, enables others to try

The food we eat and where we live are deeply intertwined. The climate, topography and weather drive what can grow locally, which is completely different from other parts of the world, different states or even areas of the same city. Understanding the seasons, varieties and climate where we live creates a new understanding and appreciation of the unique things that make our community special.

Daniel Garcia-Prats is the founder and director of operations at Finca Tres Robles, in Houston. For more information, visit Base3Farms.com and FincaTresRobles.org.

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20

MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Burnout Recovery

healing ways

Ways to Reset and Find Balance

by Ronica O’Hara

“I

’ll sleep when I die,” Kristina Shea

used to joke about her three hours of nightly shut-eye. In retrospect, she says ruefully, “It almost became a reality.”

Her hectic life as a single, widowed mother juggling her child’s needs, a high-powered career, university classes, fitness teaching and a two-hour work commute came to an abrupt stop eight years ago when she got off an escalator in the Toronto business district and collapsed. “It was burnout which manifested into physical symptoms such as extreme high blood pressure, red rashes, eczema and even a brain cyst,” she recalls.

“I was emotionally and physically drained, with little joy left for life.”

Determined to reset, she switched jobs, prioritized sleep, practiced yoga, meditated

and took long nature walks. When COVID-19 shutdowns hit and she was laid off, she was at a loss, but rebounded, and inspired by her own healing process, started a CBD-enhanced natural skincare product line. “Still to this day, it is an active healing process,” she says. “It is very easy to go back to old patterns of behavior.”

Burnout, once primarily a workplace concern, is turning into a societal norm.

During the long slog of the pandemic, its telltale symptoms have become commonplace: fatigue, cynicism, apathy and feeling ineffective and disconnected. Among American employees, 52 percent reported feeling burned out in a March 2021 study, with two-thirds saying it had worsened during the pandemic. Belgian researchers found

parental burnout in the U.S. to be among the highest in the world—even before COVID-19 closed schools. Record numbers of healthcare workers, caregivers and therapists report feeling physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted, with grave implications for those they are helping. Over time, burnout can bring on such health consequences as depression, insomnia, cardiovascular disease and immune disorders.

Turning around burnout requires a simple first step. We must admit what’s going on, says Eileen McDargh, author of Burnout to Breakthrough and an executive coach in Dana Point, California. “Until we stop and literally look at what we are doing, we remain on the hamster wheel,” she says. “And then, we must listen to what our head is saying to

21

“Until we stop and literally look at what we are doing, we remain on the hamster wheel.” – Eileen McDargh

us, and perhaps even more important, what our heart—our intuition— is telling us. The heart knows the truth.”

From this self-assessment, other steps can follow, she says, such as asking, “What can I change about this? What can I avoid? What can I amend? And what—at least for the short term—can I accept?” A stressful situation can also be proactively reframed by viewing it as a challenge, a learning opportunity, a way to help others or as having a higher purpose. Other helpful strategies include:

ACCESS POINTS OF JOY. By asking ourselves what three

specific activities or things truly make us feel alive, engaged and happy, we can figure out how to work them into our days and restructure our life. In one study, physicians that spent about 20 percent of their time—roughly one day a week—on the activity they found the most meaningful had half the rate of burnout as those spending less time on those pursuits.

FIND POINTS OF CONTROL. Feeling helpless is a trademark of burnout, “but there is always something we have control over.

Our physical body is a great place to start: sleep, exercise, diet….” says McDargh. Even little steps matter, such as putting greens into smoothies, turning off digital devices a half-hour before sleeping or dancing to a short tune.

TAKE MICRO-BREAKS. “You don’t have to wait for the next vacation to recharge,” says Michelle Risser, a licensed clinical social worker and burnout expert in Worthington, Ohio. “Some examples: stand up and stretch between meetings. Feel your feet on the ground and take a nice, slow breath. Breathe in on a count of five, out on a count of seven. Listen closely to a piece of music.” As few as 10 minutes sitting or walking in nature improves mood, focus, blood pressure and heart rate, report Cornell researchers.

ENHANCE GRATITUDE. Studies among firefighters and professional athletes have found gratitude to be significantly protective against burnout—in part because it causes us to pause and savor an uplifting feeling. Developing the habit is as simple as writing down a few specific reasons to be grateful before bedtime several days a week. “Gratitude is a powerful energy enhancer,” says McDargh.

Shea concurs, “When we take the time to just be, feel gratitude, the sun on our face, this helps rewire the way we think—and we can then begin to heal our bodies.”

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

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

wise words

Ann Armbrecht

on the Business of

Ethical Botanicals

by April Thompson

W

riter and anthropologist Ann Armbrecht explores the relationship between humans and the planet, notably through her work with plants and plant medicine. Her book The Business of Botanicals: Exploring the Healing Promise of Plant Medicines in a Global Industry tells the stories of the people and places behind the global industry of herbal products which are largely invisible to the consumers that spend $9 billion annually on them. Armbrecht is the director of the American Botanical Council Sustainable Herbs Program and is co-producer of the documentary film Numen: The Nature of Plants, inspired by her experience studying herbal medicine with herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. Although her current work focuses on the herb industry, she is interested in broader questions about how the purchasing choices everyday citizens make impact the world. Armbrecht is also the author of the memoir Thin Places: A Pilgrimage Home, based on her time conducting ethnographic research in Nepal and her continued questioning of culture and community back home in the U.S.

What surprised you the most in your journey around the world tracking the herbal supply chain?

I was surprised by the level of mechanization and scale, and the careless way plants were often handled—sometimes stored in open sacks and huge piles, with one type of plant spilling into another without controls for moisture and rodents. But I was also surprised to discover my own naiveté about the supply chain. These were both important realizations to help me come to a more nuanced, realistic assessment of the challenges the different stakeholders face in bringing herbs to market.

What should consumers consider when purchasing herbal products?

Alternative medicine and health care frame wellness as a personal choice, focused on the individual’s health, yet we have a responsibility back to the plants that heal us and the people who care for them. We can’t be well unless the planet is well. By purchasing an herbal product that has been produced in ways that care for the Earth and local communities, we can start to heal the planet and address social inequities.

Purchasing Organic Certified products is a start. Someone I met at Organic India said every time you have a cup of herbal tea that isn’t certified organic, it’s like steeping a cup of pesticides. It doesn’t make any sense to consume something for its medicinal properties that has been made with pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Certified Organic is not a perfect system—no certification is—but it operates as a stand-in for relationships and trust. These herbs change hands up to 15 times to get to a consumer, so there has to be a way to keep a paper trail and ensure product integrity.

When consumers ask for Certified Organic, it signals to the marketplace that sustainability matters and helps drive change in the industry.

Seeking out fair trade products is also great when possible. The FairWild certification, for example, works toward ecological, social and economic sustainability in the supply chain of wild-collected products.

23

What key trends are you seeing in the herbal industry?

SAVE THE DATE

There is a trend toward regenerative farming, which focuses on issues like how cultivating plants affects soil and biodiversity. There is also a new focus on social equity for people growing and collecting herbs, as many of them are living on the fringes of society in precarious situations. We are doing case studies to look at details like how the structure of contracts and timing of payments affect smallholder herb farmers so we can make appropriate recommendations and hold companies accountable.

What gives you the most hope about the herbal industry right now?

The people I got to know in my travels are working really hard to take care of the plants and of the communities to bring a sense of ethics, equity and transparency into the system. A lot of money is made at the very end of the value chain and not at the source.

Individuals and companies in the industry are working to address these imbalances.

More consumers are asking questions and becoming empowered citizens, and that also gives me hope. When I studied herbal medicine, what was most powerful for me was learning simple ways to take care of myself and my then-1-year-old daughter. Learning to make these simple remedies was deeply empowering. Without that knowledge, it’s easy to be overwhelmed walking through the supplement aisle of the drugstore, not knowing where to begin other than to read labels and try to compare one marketing claim to another. Taking steps to learn more about herbs and where they come from helps people make a shift from consumer to citizen.

That level of engagement also brings more meaning and connection, which people are hungering for.

Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

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HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Nature’s Virus Killer

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

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

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

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

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

Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA27. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?”

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives.

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

The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel “It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and disease.

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25

What are you waiting for?

Register for Introduction To Chinese Medicine Philosophies

acupuncture, Chinese medicine philosophy, Chinese medicine physiology, and herbal medicine.

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MARCH 2022

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

calendar of events March 2022 SUNDAY MARCH 6TH

Houston’s Climate Action and Resilience Strategies 2:30 pm online Join Priya Zachariah, Chief Resilience and Sustainability Officer for the City of Houston, as she discusses the City of Houston’s Climate Action Plan and the Resilient Houston plan. Please register for this event on www. eventbrite.com at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ houstons-climate-action-and-resilience-strategies-tickets-258978701267. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail.com for more details.

SATURDAY MARCH 12TH

YogaMass Online, 5-6:15 pm. Experience wholeness at YogaMass, a holistic worship experience of mind/body/soul that integrates yogic practices with holy communion. Led by The Reverends Gena Davis and Dr. John K. Graham. Contributions kindly requested as you are able. For more information and to register, see YogaMass.com.

FRIDAY MARCH 18TH

UNPLUGGED ADVENTURE: KITE FLYING ON THE PRAIRIE 10 am-2 pm. Celebrate spring with us on the Katy Prairie! You can bring your own kite to enjoy the unmatched prairie breezes or get creative at our docent-led Kite Making Station.

Bring a picnic to enjoy the wide open spaces.

Additional activities will include: Insect and Pond Netting, Birding 101, and Prairie Bingo. FREE Indiangrass Preserve 31975 Hebert Road Waller, TX 77484

SUNDAY MARCH 27TH

Eight Crucial Years for Our Civilization 6 pm online Join Phoebe Barnard, as she outlines the actions that humanity needs to take to avert our complex planetary crises by 2026, 2030 and 2050 at six scales, from the household and community levels to cities, states, nations and the UN. Please register for this talk on www. eventbrite.com at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ eight-crucial-years-for-our-civilization-tickets-261427736397. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail.com with any questions.

plan ahead SATURDAY & SUNDAY APRIL 2ND & 3RD

Via Colori® Houston 2022 is a reimagined creative arts and cultural event drawing thousands of families, artists, and festival goers annually to join in the street painting festival. Via Colori means “color street” beckoning us to engage with the environment around us and to connect with our own sense of well-being as we celebrate art and artists. Barbara P. Jordan Post Office 401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201 viacolorihouston. org and follow the event on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @viacolorihouston

SATURDAY APRIL 9TH April 9, YogaMass in Person and Online, 5-6:15 pm. Gathering in person again! Experience wholeness at YogaMass, a holistic worship experience of mind/body/soul that integrates yogic practices with holy communion. Led by The Reverends Gena Davis and Dr. John K. Graham.

In the church, St. Andrew’s in the Heights, 1819 Heights Blvd, Houston 77008. Contributions kindly requested as you are able. For more information, see YogaMass.com.

SUNDAY APRIL 10TH

EARTH DAY-HOUSTON noon-5:00 pm Presented in partnership with the Citizens’ Environmental Coalition (Houston) and sponsored by Green Mountain Energy Company, Discovery Green’s citywide Earth Day celebration is designed to educate, inspire and encourage action. The event features displays, exhibits and booths on topics ranging from alternative energy to recycling methods, plus a foodie farmers market, kids activities and more.FREE. Discovery Green Park, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010. earthdayhouston.org

FRIDAY APRIL 22ND

UNPLUGGED ADVENTURE: BIRDING THE PRAIRIE 8 am- 12 pm Witness the spectacle of spring migration on the Katy Prairie! Our guides will lead you on a bird walk highlighting our various stopover habitats for migrating birds. We will meet at Indiangrass Preserve and then caravan to other preserves depending on the birds. We will have binoculars and scopes available for use.

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, and bring a water bottle and insect protection. FREE Indiangrass Preserve 31975 Hebert Road Waller, TX 77484

SATURDAY MAY 21ST

MINDFULNESS IN NATURE 9:30 a -23 pm This mindfulness workshop will begin with a guided, one-hour lesson and meditation. Then we’ll each go to a quiet spot in nature to practice simply being – mindful, not mind-full. We’ll meet back together to enjoy (and learn about) Prairie Tea made from the local wildflowers and trees while we share and receive additional instruction from Heather. Participants are welcome to extend their mindful time on the preserve after class.

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and bring a water bottle and sun/insect protection. Please also bring a mat, blanket, or towel for outdoor meditation seating. Journals are also welcome.$20 Indiangrass Preserve 31975 Hebert Road Waller, TX 77484 Registration required.

Visit our events page. katyprairie.org

tuesday Free Virtual Meditation Class 6:30-7:30 pm.

Experience the Peace Within! Join our free meditation class. Sponsored by Houston Meditation. houston-meditation.org

wednesday Blissful Quests® with Doyle Ward-The Pocast.

1:00pm.Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Maybe the real question to explore is not IF you are intuitive, but HOW you are intuitive. Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive medium, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach. Call in during the show at: 1-760-456-7277, access on-demand episodes or listen live! blissfulquests.com/podcast

thursday March 5, Yoga Nidra Meditation, 6-6:45 pm.

Ancient, guided meditation for deep relaxation, healing, and intention setting led by Gena Davis, advanced Amrit Yoga Nidra Facilitator and Episcopal Priest. In person at 1136 Heights Blvd and online. See GenaDavis.org to register.

Free Virtual Meditation Class 6:30-7:30 pm.

Experience the Peace Within! Join our free meditation class. Sponsored by Houston Meditation. houston-meditation.org

saturday Free Virtual Meditation Class 10-11 am. Experience the Peace Within! Join our free meditation class. Sponsored by Houston Meditation. houston-meditation.org

sunday Houston Zen Center 8”20 am Sunday Sangha. https://houstonzen.org/cloud-zendo Free Virtual Meditation Class 10-11 am. Experience the Peace Within! Join our free meditation class. Sponsored by Houston Meditation. houston-meditation.org Grace Episcopal Church & School.

10 am. Sunday Worship Livestream. https://www.facebook.com/GraceinHouston/ Unity Spiritual Center of Greater Houston 10:15 am Sunday Service. Facebook Live https://unityspiritualcenterhouston.org First Spiritualist Church of Houston 10:30 am Sunday Healing & Spirit Greetings Facebook Live Unity of Houston. 11 am Sunday Morning Service Livestreaming. https://unityhouston.org/ Creative Life Spiritual Center 11 am Sunday Celebration. Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/creativelife.org/ Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism 12 noon. Sunday Meditation & Dharma Talk. https://www.youtube.com/user/dawnmountain

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healthy living guide ACUPUNCTURE

HYDROSHACK HYDROPONICS

BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY

APRIL BUI HOLISTIC ACUPUNCTURE

ADORE DENTISTRY 540 W 19 Street Houston, TX 77008 832-930-7844 adoredentistrystudio.com

April Bui, LAC, MAOM specializes in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and energy medicine for pain, stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure but she is also able to treat many other health conditions. She has more than 25 years’ experience in the field of alternative holistic health and has practice acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine since 2008. Visit her website for more information or to schedule a FREE Consultation.

Re-designing dentistry in Houston Heights by creating a personalized, comfortable, and fun experience to deliver excellent patient satisfaction. From preventative dentistry to smile makeovers, our team of dental professionals have the skill-sets to provide remarkable quality and compassionate care to give you that smile you’ve always wanted. Services include cosmetic, preventative, restorative, and a full range of family dentistry services. Lead by Drs. Emilyann Pham and Ann Blair our team provides compassionate human-centered patient care. Visit our website for more information or to book an appointment.

Insurance accepted.

See Ad on page 7

9039 Katy Freeway, Suite 504 Houston, Texas 77024 713-922-3474 abui-acupunctureclinic.com

LEFEBER ACUPUNCTURE

2425 West Loop South, 3rd Floor Houston, Texas 77027 409-771-0332 lefeberacupuncture.com Lefebed340@gmail.com Are you experiencing back or shoulder pain because you are working virtually from home? Are you suffering from post-COVID symptoms of loss of taste, smell and low energy. We can help. Donald Lefeber is a licensed acupuncturist.

He specializes in pain medicine, sports medicine, fertility, stress management and more. Donald is a full member of the Texas Medical Center / Rice University Sigma Xi Research Society. Call or visit our website today to schedule an initial consultation * Se Habla Español

BATH PRODUCTS

MARILYN K. JONES, DDS Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 713-497-1355 houstonbiologicaldentist.com

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment.

See ad on page 26

CONNIE’S BATH SHACK 211 Midway St, Bldg E Spring, TX 77373 (281) 288-9595 conniesbathshack.com

SMOKE ENVY/BETTER DAYS CBD

A quaint shop in the heart of historic Old Town Spring Texas, offering unique handmade bath and body products and lots of rubber ducks. Small Batch Handmade soaps by Connie.

Wonderful lather and amazing Scents. Enjoy the aromatherapy of a bath in your shower with Shower Steamers. Put little bit of heaven for your bath with Fizzies. We also have bath salts, scrubs, shampoos, lotions, creams, shaving creams & soaps, and batch accessories of all kinds. Shop conveniently on-line or drop by our store.

CBD vape pens, gummies, tintures, flower,oils, apparel and accessories. We stock Better Days CBD and Honey Hills Delta 8 & CBD products.

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MARCH 2022

CBD

2524 Yale Street, #2, Houston, TX 77008 832-744-9944 18123 Egret Bay Blvd, Houston, TX, 77053 smokenvy.com/

1138 W 20th Street, Houston, TX 77008 Open 7 days a week 713-292-1921 Hydroshack.com Hydroshack proudly carries some of the most beautiful high-CBD hemp flower and Delta 8 products in Houston! We also sell the highest quality 1.5 gram pre-rolls packed with actual bud and never trim. Our bud-tenders will be more than happy to let you experience true legal Hemp Flower from our open sample jars.While you are in check out our complete line of hydroponic growing products. See Ad page 24

COACHING BLISSFUL QUESTS

Positive change starts now!

832-628-4113 blissfulquests.com Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach.

Tune in to his weekly PodCast, Wednesdays at 1 pm on inflowradio.com See ad on page 14

COLONICS JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE 1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com

Established 1989. Call to schedule any of the following services: massage therapies, lymphatic drainage massage and facials, reflexology, infra-red sauna, ion cleanse foot or hand baths, Chinese cupping or colon hydrotherapy (prescriptions onlyyours or ours). By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

URBAN COLONICS

Barbara Ellis, Retired RN 5042 Briscoe St. Houston, TX.77033 713-738-8199 urbancolonics.com Serving Houston and the surrounding area since 1979.

We now offer the first and ONLY mobile colonic service in Houston. We continue to irrigate with State Of The Art Equipment (closed colonic systems cleared by the FDA). We utilize totally disposable colonic set-ups and sterile water. A prescription is required for this procedure.

Our Medical Director at a different location will make an assessment and write a prescription for OUR clients only. Visit our website to learn more details. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

See ad page 5

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE ERIN THOLE, CNHP ErinThole.com Thole.erin@gmail.com Get to the Root Cause of your Health Conditions.

Erin has been working in the health and nutrition field for over 11 years specializing and working extensively with those suffering from: autoimmune, digestive, hormonal and inflammatory disorders. She works with each client’s unique biochemistry to determine what dietary, supplementation and lifestyle changes will work best for them as an individual. There is NO one-size-fits-all program. All appointments are conducted via phone! This makes it very easy and convenient to receive care from any location. If you want to reach your true health potential, Email Erin today to schedule your FREE 45 minute initial phone consultation. Hours until 5 pm Fridays.

See Ad page 5

COMING IN MAY

WOMEN’S WELLNESS

HAIR DESIGN

HYPNOSIS

VENUS HAIR DESIGN

CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST

361 West 19th Street Houston, TX 77008 713-868-4725 venushairhouston.com

(by appointment only) 281-849-4610 ca@claudiaautry.com claudiaautry.com

Venus and her staff can do any age with any style, from a trim to a Mohawk. She is a wizard at color! If you are in The Heights, drop by, check out her art car, The Hairse, and say Hi!

Want to stop smoking or lose weight? Looking for ways to relax, find balance and increase the joy in your life? Hypnosis can help you. Call SOON to book your appointment.

Now OPEN by appointment only. Call me!

HOME & LAND HARMONIZATION ENERGETIC GEOMETRY

Upgrade the energy of your home Energeticgeometry.com Is your home supporting you? Most people have an intuition that something is just not right. Maybe they never feel rested, or wake up with back pains, or maybe their child has nightmares.

Curiously when they go on vacation, these problems disappear.

If this sounds familiar, maybe it is time to think that your home is the problem, not you. Check out how we can help you solve your problem at energeticgeometry.com/harmonizations/ Receive 15% off our services as a Natural Awakenings reader.

Use coupon code: Houston15

“No matter how chaotic it is, wildflowers will still spring up in the middle of nowhere.” ~Sheryl Crow

INDIVIDUAL NUTRITIONAL PROTOCOLS LINDA ISAACS, MD 2500 W. William Cannon Dr., Suite 603 Austin, TX 78745 737-208-0831 DrLindaI.com/NAHTX For more than 20 years, Dr. Linda Isaacs and the late Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez offered individualized protocols involving diet, nutritional supplementation, and detoxification for cancer and other degenerative diseases. They published multiple articles in peer-reviewed medical journals about their results. The work is based on that of the Texas orthodontist Dr. William Donald Kelley. Dr. Isaacs is currently seeing new patients.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHOENIX RISING INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 3100 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77098 713-806-9927 phoenixrisingacu.com

Phoenix Rising Integrative Medicine offers comprehensive and customized therapeutic plans that address chronic illness & autoimmune disease for patients seeking support both in-person and virtually. Phoenix Rising Integrative Medicine takes an integrative approach to addressing chronic illness and autoimmune by combining ancient healing tools of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern functional medicine, including evidence-based lab testing, clinical nutrition, lifestyle modifications, herbal medicine and acupuncture protocols that are customized for each patient. We also work with patients suffering from environmental and food allergies, reproductive and fertility issues, breast implant illness, and emotional health issues. Visit our website for more information or to book an appointment.

29

ODYSSEY EMPORIUM

JUICE

123 Midway St, Bldg C Spring, Texas 77373 888-492-3584 odysseyemporium.com

KARUNA BEVERAGES Food Is Better MedicineTM mykaruna.com

We are a retail shop and also have an online store. We can also custom-make many of our product lines.

Our products include a range of metaphysical items, clothing, books, stones, jewelry, candles, soaps, teas, incenses, herbs, blades, and accessories for spiritual work. We also have some unique renaissance festival and gothic clothing and accessories. We carry some wonderful and unusual products some of which are artisan made.

Check out our gaming and sci-fi themed products as well. We offer daily in-house Tarot reading and conduct private Old Town Spring Ghost tours.

Open 7 days a week.

Organic juice detox & antioxidant juices, preboitic plant protein smoothies and synergy coffee blends.

Karuna and Karviva products are available on Amazon and at Houston Area H-E-B, Sprouts Farmers Market and Central Market Stores.

See Ad page 20

KRATOM KREAT DAY BOTANICALS 1973 W Gray, Suite 23 Houston, TX 77019 713-369-0946 KreatDay.com A BBB Accredited Business

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

We provide the choicest healthy Botanicals garnered from some of the most exotic corners of the world. Only The BEST! We ensure quality by going to the source, checking our international vendors 1st hand, and using USDA Certified Organic vendors when applicable. We stand by our products and our services! If you are unsatisfied with your order we will return, exchange and or refund your money.

We got you covered!

See ads on pages 2 & 16

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188 Services: nHormone Rejuvenation nVaginal Dryness nUrinary Incontinence nLow Libido nErectile Dysfution nLow Stamina nWeight-Loss nSexual Dysfunction(men & women) nHair Restoration nNatural Face Lift

Our aim is to make you have a KREAT experience as well as a Kreat Day!

LYMPHATIC THERAPY JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE 1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com

Health conditions can interrupt the normal flow of lymph, causing lymph fluid to build up in a particular area of the body, often in the arms or legs where it can and may cause blockages. Lymphatic therapy can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. By appointment only. Be well – Stay well. CALL TODAY!

30

MARCH 2022

METAPHYSICAL

Call today to schedule a consultation

CHAKRA SHOP OF OLD TOWN SPRING 315 Gentry Street Spring Texas 77373 Unit B1 281-288-9130 A unique metaphysical shop in Old Town Spring.Services include: Spiritual Guidance Life Coach, Psychic, Tarot, Medium, Chakra & Aura Readings. We also stock: Candles, Crystals, Gemstones, Jewelry, Oils, Incense, Sage, Herbs, Resins & More! When you visit Old Town Spring, be sure to stop by our store.

NATUROPATH HOUSTON HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC “Better Health Naturally” Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991 HoustonHolisticHealthClinic. com

Dr. Gracie Chukwu is a Doctor of Naturopathy and a Certified Nutrition Counselor.

She has been assisting people for over five years with holistic medicine, diet, nutrition and supplement support to enhance her client’s health and overall well-being. If you are suffering and cannot find relief, give Dr. Gracie a call.

See ad on page 8

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

PAIN REMEDY AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY

Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream 973-715-9097 info@AlbertasPainRelief.com albertaspainrelief.com Need Relief from Arthritis? Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease muscular aches and joint pain. Her Remedy is a homeopathic pain relief cream that penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues.

Get beneficial relief from sciatica, fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuralgia, gout, and more. All-natural ingredients! Do you want to feel a real difference from the nagging aches of arthritis? Feel less pain & have more range of motion? Great buy, get a 4oz jar for $15! See website for other options.

See Ad on page 8

PET FOOD BOBCAT RAW FOOD

Made locally. Delivered to your door. bobcatrawfood. com Our raw cat food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of obligate carnivores.

We use only the highest quality Grade A, USDA certified US-sourced meats. All our meals are 100% natural and grain-free and are pre-portioned to for your convenience. Our top priority is to make feeding raw convenient and affordable. We deliver inside Houston for a flat fee of only $5. Visit our website today and let your cat experience the difference a raw food diet makes.

SELF-HEALING CHING CHI INSTITUTE

Life energy education and research Kun Wu, Ph. D. Integral chi healer Chi H Wu, L. Acupuncturist 832-654-2885 chingchiinstitute.com Do you want to learn CHING how to use your body’s own chi energy to deCHI crease your chance of becoming ill, increase your chance of recovering more quickly from INSTITUTE illness, prevent a minor illness from becoming a major one, and improve your overall health? We have live and prerecorded classes online to teach you the principles and techniques of self-healing. We will be resuming in-person classes this month. Look for our new offering on the Corona Virus. Visit our website for more information.

SHAMANISM SHAMAN SPIRITS

Galveston, TX 4 0 9-7 6 2 - 6 0 2 7 anthony@shamanspirits.net ShamanSpirits.net “Shamanism provides personal and spiritual healing with ancient, elegant and time tested methods. Shamanic healing opens new pathways for personal growth and spiritual awareness. If you’re looking for a way to connect with spirit without dogma, shamanism offers methods to access your healing spirits for transformation, guidance and teachings for a better way of living filled with love and compassion.

Contact me at 409-762-6027 for more information.” See ad page 5

coming in the april issue

Sustainable Living

STEM CELL ACTIVATION YOUR HOLISTIC RN

www.yourHolisticRN.com Houston, TX Sandra Burnett, RN graduated over 40 years ago and now focuses on your holistic health. Enjoy a complimentary session of education. Learn the importance of microcirculation. Did you know you can activate your own stem cells? Serving Houston and surrounding communities, I invite you to share your story. We have helped thousands with our technology and only a phone call away. Make an appointment today!

THERMOGRAPHY MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY CENTER “Better Health Naturally” Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991 HoustonHolisticHealthClinic.com

Breast thermography has the ability to warn woman up to 10 years before any other procedure that a cancer may be forming; thus, allowing for prompt and timely treatment.

Thermography uses no radiation and poses absolutely NO health risks to the patient. Consequently, scans may be performed at any frequency necessary.

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY GUIDELINES: Baseline thermograph at age 20, 20-30 years of age–every three years, and 30 years of age and over–every year. If you are a woman, over 20 years old and have not had a breast thermograph, call Dr. Gracie TODAY. See ad on page 16

“ May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow.

And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.” ~Irish Blessing

31

WE GROW WHAT WE SELL ... organically and sustainably!

This is the only way that we can be sure of the quality that goes into the products we sell and you should insist on nothing less.

Family owned and operated-fully licensed hemp farm Regenerative Farming-Completely Organic Just outside of College Station, Texas Hemp Flower -Vape Products - Isolates -Tinctures HoneyHills TX products are available at the following area locations: Houston, TX: Smoke Envy-Yale St, Smoke Envy-Nasa Rd 1, Amsterdam Coffee-W. 19th, Segundo Coffee Lab-Eado Galveston, TX: Hazy Daze-Seawall Blvd, Hazy Daze -The Strand, Hazy Daze - 3802 Cove View Blvd , Smokee’s Vape & Smoke Shop-Seawall Blvd Bryan/College Station, TX: Smoken Joe’s-South Texas Ave. Caldwell, TX: Cotten’s Care CBD - 203 Hwy. 21 W Hutto, TX: Hippo Vapo-Hwy 79 E

Honey Hills TX

Est. 2019 - Caldwell, Texas 832.868.9452 honeyhillstx.com