Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley PA & Far West NJ- October 2025
Alternative Non-Toxic Cancer
Treatments Frequency Treatments & Cancer
Through the American Association of Nutritional Consultants (AANC) Doctor of Naturopathy and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Derek Rodger (ND) prepares students to pass the Certified Nutritional Consultants Exam. Once qualified you are entitled to use the designation CNC after your name and practice as a Nutritionist. Certified Nutritional Consultants (CNC) can work in hospitals, clinics, private practice settings alongside acupuncturists, mental health professionals, physical therapists, doctors and chiropractors, as well as a consultant in schools, businesses, health food stores, spas and health clubs.
Today's economists have determined that the natural health field is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. today. It goes without saying that people are getting more concerned about their personal health and their families health. Just take a look at this picture below and ask yourself, what type of life are you planning for yourself.
The course includes 11 modules and the classes meet on a Sunday morning 9-1 pm. The course fee is $1950 and can be paid over 6 months at $325.
Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Your Health is too Important to Leave in the Hands of Just One Opinion or One Treatment!
The Importance of Not Relying Solely on the First Doctor’s Advice!
When you’re told you need a treatment, it’s natural to want to trust the first doctor you see. After all, they’re trained and experienced. But one of the most important things you can do for your health is to pause, take a breath, and remember: the first opinion is not always the full story.
Doctors, like all professionals, view health challenges through the lens of their training. An oncologist may focus on chemotherapy, radiation and hormone-blocking drugs. A surgeon might naturally see surgery as the best solution, while a general practitioner is more likely to reach for medications. By contrast, a holistic doctor often looks through a wider lens—considering an array of alternative, non-toxic therapies that work with the body rather than against it. These approaches are often gentler, more supportive, and worth exploring before jumping straight into invasive or harsh treatments.
For example, clinical nutritional therapy provides your body with the essential building blocks it needs to restore balance and vitality. A well-structured detox program can gently clear toxins that may be fueling illness and fatigue, leaving you with more energy and clarity. Frequency-based energy therapies and other natural approaches work in harmony with your body’s own healing mechanisms—without the added burden of side effects. Even simple yet powerful practices—like making your food your medicine (before pharmaceutical medicine becomes your food)—can strengthen the immune system, improve resilience, and uplift overall well-being. These holistic options not only stand strong on their own, but they can also beautifully complement conventional treatments if you choose to include them later.
Seeking another opinion—especially from an integrative or holistic practitioner—opens the door to these possibilities. Many times, starting with supportive, non-toxic approaches can bring significant improvement and reduce the need for aggressive medical treatments. And if stronger interventions do become necessary, your body is often in a better state to handle them after being supported naturally first.
Most importantly, taking time to gather more opinions puts you back in the driver’s seat. It’s your body, your health, and your future. Doctors should be your partners, not your dictators. Asking questions, exploring alternatives, and making sure every recommendation resonates with you is a sign of strength, not doubt. Your health is too important to leave in the hands of just one opinion.
Have a great month…
Dr. D Rodger ND, MBA
Not
Gaining
yourself
Dr. Lorraine Maita, the Hormone Harmonizer and Detoxifier, can help you have boundless energy, stable moods, a lean body, sharp, clear mind and balance your hormones so you can feel like yourself again and even better. If you need support in getting your life back, apply for a free clarity call to see if we are the right fit at https://you.feelgoodagaincourses.com/ foundations-program.
The Feel Good Again Institute (formerly HowToLiveYounger.com)
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Want to Become a Massage Therapist?
imarly/123rf.com
The Massage Academy of the Poconos , located at 753 Phillips Street in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, is a premier destination for both professional massage services and massage therapy education. Our spacious facility of over 5,000 square feet is designed for comfort and relaxation.
Want to Become a Massage Therapist?
We are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Private Licensed Schools. Our 670hour massage therapy diploma program curriculum ensures students graduate with the skills and knowledge to succeed as licensed massage therapists. Day and evening classes are now forming for January 2026. Please review the online catalog on the website for more details.
Facility & Community Impact
With a comfortable environment, the Massage Academy of the Poconos supports the wellness needs of the local community while preparing the next generation of massage professionals. Its mission blends health, education, and relaxation—providing a place where clients relax and students succeed.
Wellness Services from our L icensed Therapists
Clients can choose from a wide variety of treatments, including relaxation massage, rejuvenating facials, holistic therapies such as reiki, sound healing, and acupuncture. We are committed to making highquality massage and wellness services accessible, offering affordable rates with a spa-like experience.
For more info: Vicki Hicks, BS,LMT, CCCA, BCTMB. 570-977-1900. Owner/Director. To learn more about becoming a massage therapist or scheduling with our PA Licensed practitioners please review our website.
Massage Academy of the Poconos, LLC. MassageAcademyLLC.com. See ad on page 21.
Is Your Home Making You Sick?
The Health Risks of Dirty Electricity
For many people suffering with unexplained chronic pain and fatigue, dirty electricity may be the root cause. It’s hard to believe that an invisible force coming from our everyday devices could be contributing to health issues. Our bodies were never meant to be exposed to this much manmade electricity and radiation. Wireless radiation is emitted from cell phones, Bluetooth devices, smart TVs, computers, even air conditioners, virtually any smart device. What many do not realize is that even the wiring in their homes can emit dirty electricity.
Dirty electricity refers to high-frequency voltage spikes or ‘electromagnetic interference’ that travels along the wiring in a building. These surges can also be created by appliances, like refrigerators, washing machines, dimmer switches and more. Nearby power lines also introduce electrical pollution into the home. This electric smog interferes with the body's own subtle electrical systems. Electricity releases positively charged ions, too many in our environment can lead to a cascade of health issues. This includes chronic pain, inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, insomnia, tinnitus, headaches, and even difficulty breathing.
Negative ions are found in nature after a thunderstorm, near running water, or in dense forests, which are beneficial for our health. Ever notice how much easier it is to breathe and relax after spending time in nature? That is the power of negative ions. Unfortunately, many people suffering with health issues isolate indoors. Spending more time in front of screens and a positive ion environment. The very place they are seeking comfort in may be the cause of their suffering. There is a study from 1979 that connected cases of childhood leukemia to homes near electric power lines. Long-term exposure to high magnetic fields is a huge risk for cancer, especially in children.
So what can you do?
First, open your windows daily to bring in negative ions. Spend time outdoors when possible and get sunlight. If you work from home, consider switching to a Ethernet connection, while keeping your device on airplane mode. Cell phones can be put on airplane mode when not in use especially at bedtime or turned off. Create a safe space in your home. I keep the breaker off to my bedroom, which is a no-electricity zone. You can purchase a grounding bedsheet and avoid using a metal bed frame or mattress with metal springs. Metal conducts and amplifies electrical frequencies. Smart meters emit strong bursts of radiation into the home. Pay attention to where yours is located, it may be affecting your health. You can purchase a Faraday cage to cover the meter which reduces interference. There are dirty electricity filters that can be plugged into your outlets. Best to use one to two per room. It is helpful to invest in an EMF and EMI meter to test your home for problematic areas.
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For more information on this subject, or to better understand if dirty electricity may be impacting your health, feel free to reach out to book a consultation with me. I offer home assessments to help identify and reduce these environmental stressors. You deserve a space that supports your healing. See ad on page 4.
Create a Fruit Tree Guild
with Bear Creek Organics
One of the coolest ways to grow fruit trees in your backyard is by planting a fruit tree guild. A fruit tree guild is a way you can grow a fruit tree along with multiple flowers and berry bushes that work together as a mini ecosystem. Think about your favorite fruit tree, berry bushes, and native flowers. Now imagine them growing in the same space and working together as a team.
Benefits of a Fruit Tree Guild:
• A sy nergy of plants that work together as a mini ecosystem.
• Harvest a variety of fruits, berries, and flowers in one garden space.
• E dible groundcovers such as strawberries help suppress weeds.
• Native plants work together to ward off pests and to support pollinators.
Fruit Tree Guilds start with a main fruit tree in the center forming the canopy. This fruit tree grows up tall towards the sun and is the backbone of the guild. From here we add an edible ground cover that grows low and wide and produces an abundance of fruit while suppressing grass and weeds. Around the tree we plant a diversity of native flowers that work together to support pollinators and build soil. Next, we plant the shrub layer with all sorts of berry and nut bushes.
Landscaping
Mitchell for details. Bearcreekorganics.com ‘contact us’. Richie@bearcreekorganics.com, 570582-0615. Follow us facebook.com/ bearcreekorganics
Ecological Edible Landscapes
with Fruit & Nut Trees, Berry Bushes, Native Plants : ) and
Our favorite guild to create is an Apple Tree Guild with a crisp delicious apple tree at the center, sweet juicy strawberries as the ground cover, and a variety of beautiful and medicinal native flowers. If the space allows we include yummy berry bushes. For example, Blueberry, Honeyberry, Elderberry, Chokeberry. Then we repeat the pattern with different trees to form a Food Forest.
Explore Wellness and Gems at the Inner Peace Expo
The Inner Peace Holistic Wellness & Gem Expo returns to Hamburg Field House on November 1 and 2 for its 23rd year of bringing together healing, inspiration and community. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Founder Nancy Hartman shares, “We’re excited to return to our roots in Hamburg and to expand the show to include a wide variety of healing modalities, such as hypnosis, massage, reiki and ionic foot detox. Guests will also find mediums, medical intuitives, gemstones, jewelry and handcrafted goods. Free lectures on holistic topics will be offered throughout the weekend to educate and inspire.”
Attendees can also enjoy daily giveaways, and the first 150 guests each day will receive complimentary swag bags.
Cost: $10 for the entire weekend, with free entry for veterans and children 12 and under. Location for GPS: 123-127 S 4th St., Hamburg, PA. For more information, visit InnerPeaceHolisticExpo. com or follow the expo on Facebook (@iphexpo) and Instagram (@innerpeaceholisticexpo). See ad on page 4.
Staying Clear
After Spirt Release a person will be able to notice when the mood or body is giving signs that something is amiss and take positive action. People feel and act differently after a well executed Spirit Release (Baldwin, 1991). Habits that are not productive or healthy may come to an abrupt stop and people have a better self-concept and more self-confidence without the artifice or props that were once used. These changes are not just a byproduct of connecting with a higher level of consciousness, it’s turning a new leaf! Some people are amazed by is the sudden change and wonder of when or if the old urges and impulses will come back. It’s important to understand that this change is part of the process and accept it as a blessing.
For some people even though the impetus to do the habit behavior is gone they may just be so used to going through the motions and having it be part of their identity that the behavior lingers on after the clearing.
In either case it is best to “do the work” to prevent getting new attachments. Traditional therapy and counseling help people get accustomed to new ways of coping and being. It’s beneficial to feel good about oneself, learn interpersonal communications skills, and find positive ways to process grief and loss. This way people can enjoy life to the fullest.
If you or a loved one has a spirit attachment, contact me via my website. For more information, Vanessa Perez Weiss, BCH, FNP, NP-C. Stream Hypnosis, LLC, 535 E. Laurel St, Bethlehem, PA18018. 570-6175325, vperweiss@StreamHypnosis.com, StreamHypnosis.com. See ad on page 7.
Frequency Restoration and Its Benefits in Treating Cancers & Much More...
Frequency restoration, often delivered through advanced technologies such as pulsed electromagnetic field therapy and targeted radiofrequency applications, is based on the principle that every living cell resonates with unique electromagnetic vibrations. Cancer cells, which differ structurally and metabolically from healthy cells, may be especially vulnerable to carefully tuned frequencies. Unlike chemotherapy or radiation—which can harm both cancerous and normal tissues—frequency-based approaches aim to selectively disrupt malignant cells while supporting the vitality of healthy ones. This makes frequency healing an appealing non-toxic and supportive option in integrative cancer care.
How Frequency Healing Works:
Scientific exploration into frequency therapies has revealed several ways in which they may influence cancer biology:
• Cellular disruption: Laboratory studies have demonstrated that exposure to specific frequencies can interfere with cancer cell division, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and disrupt survival signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and p53. These mechanisms are central to tumor growth and resistance, making them valuable targets.
• Immune activation: The immune system plays a critical role in recognizing and
eliminating cancer cells. Animal models have shown that frequency therapy may enhance the activity of CD8+ T-cells, reduce immunosuppressive cytokines, and restore immune surveillance, thereby helping the body mount a stronger natural defense.
• Tumor environment modulation: Tumors thrive by creating their own supportive environment. Frequency exposure has been linked with reduced angiogenesis—the process of building new blood vessels to feed tumors—and increased necrosis within malignant tissue. By altering this microenvironment, tumors may become more vulnerable to the body’s defenses and medical treatments.
Documented Benefits
Non-toxic and well-tolerated:
1. Unlike conventional chemotherapy or radiation, frequency-based therapies are generally free from severe side effects. Clinical research, including phase I/II trials in advanced liver cancer, has reported encouraging outcomes such as disease stabilization, tumor shrinkage, and even complete remission in select patients—all without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. Patients typically tolerate these therapies well, with no suppression of immunity or organ function.
2. Enhancing standard therapies: Frequency healing does not necessarily replace conventional care but may strengthen it. Evidence suggests that cancer cells exposed to specific frequencies can become more sensitive to chemotherapy drugs, while healthy cells appear protected. This dual effect opens the possibility of reducing chemotherapy dosages, minimizing toxicity, and improving overall treatment outcomes.
3. Improved quality of life. In Comparison to The Traditional Chemotherapy—Radiation & Hormone Blocking Drugs. Patients undergoing frequency therapies often report significant improvements in daily living. Reductions in cancer-related pain, improvements in sleep quality, better energy levels, and relief from anxiety or stress have been consistently noted. These benefits not only enhance well-being but also support resilience—an essential factor in coping with long-term cancer management.
Conclusion: Frequency healing represents a promising new avenue in integrative oncology, combining the wisdom of natural resonance with modern medical insight. By selectively targeting cancer cells, boosting immune defenses, and enhancing quality of life, it offers a gentle yet potentially powerful complement to established treatments. While larger, multicenter clinical trials are still required to confirm long-term effectiveness, early research and patient experiences provide strong encouragement. For individuals seeking non-toxic, supportive, and holistic approaches to cancer care, frequency healing stands out as a valuable option— one that aligns healing with harmony.
Dr. Rodger ND is the author of two books, a writer, blogger and the publisher of Natural Awakenings LHV. He is passionate about Natural Healing Modalities. Connect with him at DrRodgerND.com
Connecting Community With Yogic Tradition
Kula Kamala Ashram Offers Universal Teachings and Restorative Practices
by Trella Dubetz
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Berks County, Pennsylvania, Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram is quietly reshaping what it means to live a spiritual life in today’s world. More than just a local yoga center, the ashram serves as a nonprofit sanctuary for both local and global communities, supports meaningful causes, fosters creative solutions and encourages inclusive spiritual exploration.
“We are an interfaith, inclusive space rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma—a universal perspective of truth, goodness, service and nonviolence. The work we do is summoned by our sincere calling to make the world a little more welcoming, a little less intimidating, and life more radiant and peaceful,” explains Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati, affectionately known as SwaminiJi. Founded in 2015 by SwaminiJi and her husband, Ed RamaChandra Allitt (now deceased), the ashram is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, with offerings available both in person and online.
One of the ashram’s most beloved offerings is chanting—a practice rooted in yogic tradition. “The music and mantras are filled with messages of love and peace,” SwaminiJi observes. “We teach mantra from the beginning. We start with the history, work through the pronunciation and cultivate the bhav, the sweetest intention of devotion.” SwaminiJi personally leads the
chanting training programs, which focus on either a traditional method called veda or a more modern approach. “When we chant, we witness people relax—their faces and nervous systems soften. It’s transformative physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” Chanting is offered both online and in person.
For those seeking an in-person experience, the ashram offers wellness and themed retreats, professional trainings in leadership and yoga and serene outdoor spaces— including a koi pond, meditation path and labyrinth, library and several spots for personal quiet time. “Mindfulness and quietude are important.” SwaminiJi emphasizes. “Our silent retreats, offered by donation twice yearly, provide people an opportunity to explore both.”
The ashram is deeply committed to sustainable living and is increasingly offgrid. The original structure was built in 1932, with an additional wing added in 1954. Since acquiring the property, SwaminiJi has
overseen the installation of HVAC units to offset heating oil use; a solar system that generates up to 130 percent of the ashram’s energy needs; two geodesic greenhouses and 54 outdoor raised garden beds to support food production; and a café that serves wholesome, gluten-free, vegan food, offered by donation.
“The human heart is constantly looking for ways to heal through connection— with ourselves, with Source and with each other. We serve others to ease the incessant searching and empower the actual discovery,” SwaminiJi reflects. “May there be more places of peace, more spaces for healing.”
Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram stands as a powerful reminder of our inherent potential as humans to explore, rediscover and empower spiritual growth, purpose and unity.
For more information about Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati and Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, located at 17 Basket Rd. in Reading, call 484-509-5073 ext. 1 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org.
Trella Dubetz is a trauma-informed bodyworker, holistic and human design practitioner, graphic designer and writer based in Lancaster County. She blends creativity with healing practices to support personal transformation. Connect with her at TrellaDubetz.com. See ad on page 25.
The Force Behind Giant Hail
Hailstorms cause more than $10 billion annually in property damage, injuries and fatalities. In 2024, State Farm paid more than $3.8 billion for home repairs and $1.2 billion for auto repairs due to hailstorms nationwide. In 2022, a storm in Spain produced hail nearly five inches in diameter, injuring 70 people, killing a child and damaging buildings.
Hail forms in a thunderstorm when warm air rises, carrying raindrops into the cold atmosphere where they freeze and then fall at sizes ranging from tiny chips to baseballs or larger, depending on the rain amount, updraft strength and duration, as well as how long the ice remains suspended.
Research published in Nature in 2024 indicates that while climate warming may reduce hailstorm frequency, hail size is expected to increase due to stronger updrafts. The National Science Foundation funded a study this summer to understand hailstone growth and the forces affecting their fall, aiming to improve meteorologists’ ability to predict significant hailstorms.
Shade Investments for a Cooler Future
A shade map produced by the University of California, Los Angeles, and American Forests reveals a critical shade shortage in the United States. This map, covering more than 360 cities and towns, highlights where shade from buildings and vegetation is present. City planners can use the interactive tool to strategically place shade trees to mitigate rising temperatures. A 2020 study published in GeoHealth found that extreme heat contributes to 12,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S., a number that could rise to 50,000 under moderate warming scenarios.
The map illustrates how investments in shade may impact temperatures at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. in specific locations. Trees deliver 25 times more shade than buildings at noon, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing extreme heat. The map’s creators also offer real-world examples of the benefits of shade coverage, such as on school routes in Austin, Texas, public transit stops in Detroit, Michigan, and public parks in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Activating Neuroplasticity
The Brain's Ultimate Rewind Button
by Hannah Tytus
The brain has an amazing ability to rewire itself by strengthening, rerouting or growing new connections in response to learning, experience or injury. This continuous reshaping is known as neuroplasticity. The changes can be positive, such as regaining movement or speech after a stroke or learning a new skill. Sometimes they are neutral, and other times they can be harmful when maladaptive patterns reinforce chronic pain or anxiety. Fortunately, the brain can grow and adapt at any age, and there are many ways to help it thrive. Nourishing foods, mindful movement, meditation, social connection, clean air and restful sleep are everyday choices that can nurture the brain in powerful ways.
Neuroplasticity Across the Lifespan
It has long been believed that children’s brains are more malleable as they grow, and that once they reach adulthood, the brain stops evolving. But new research suggests that this may not be the full story. While the brains of developing children are certainly very adaptable, the adult brain is far from fixed.
A variety of influences, including stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, medications, environmental stimulation, learning and aging, can reshape how brain cells are built and function. These factors may trigger changes in the size or structure of brain regions, shift the brain’s chemical makeup, alter the shape of individual neurons and even rewire networks of connections, sparking the growth of new neurons in a process called neurogenesis.
Scientists have long known that injuries, chronic stress and the natural process of aging can take a toll on the brain. Yet, new discoveries in neuroscience and integrative medicine point to the remarkable potential for repair and renewal at every phase of life.
Healthy Fats
“Nutrition is the foundation of everything in health. You can’t build anything in the body without good food,” says Dr. Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist, researcher and author of Dementia Demystified: The Definitive Guide to Resurrecting Your Brain, Reversing Cognitive Decline and Regaining Your Memory. Contrary to decades of marketing campaigns for low-fat and fat-free diets, Toups explains, healthy fats are essential for brain health. The spongy white and grey matter of the brain, where all the thinking and messaging happens, is made primarily of fat.
Found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are some of the healthiest fats, increasing blood flow in the brain and nourishing its physical structures to help improve learning, memory and cognitive well-being.
Mindful Movement
“The most validated ways to support neuroplasticity are exercise and meditation—and both are free,” says Toups. Exercise is wellknown to protect the brain and boost thinking skills. One way it may do this is by supporting the growth of new neurons and strengthening connections within the hippocampus, an area in the brain involved in the formation of fresh memories and the recall of
past experiences. A 2017 study published in Experimental Gerontology found that regular exercise significantly increased hippocampus volume, while nonactive participants showed a shrinking hippocampus.
In addition to strength and cardio training, exercise that incorporates mindful and creative components may enrich the benefits. Engaging the body and mind at the same time can strengthen neural networks and support long-term cognitive function. Long walks, yoga classes or playful sessions with the kids or grandchildren are excellent ways to support the link between body and brain. Studies show that tai chi, a mindful movement practice, may be even more effective than regular exercise in protecting cognitive function because it increases brain activation in regions associated with motor function and focus, and is accessible to those with mobility limitations.
Daily Meditation
A regular mindfulness practice supports neuroplasticity, making it easier to regulate emotions and handle stress. A 2024 review found that regular meditation can physically reshape the brain, strengthening areas tied to focus, emotional control and self-awareness. One reason for this is meditation’s effect on a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This molecule acts like fertilizer for brain cells, helping them grow, form new connections and remain healthy. Meditation increases BDNF, and higher levels of BDNF are linked not only to sharper learning and memory, but also to longer lasting brain health.
Additional research has demonstrated that even a short daily meditation session can increase gray matter density in regions tied to learning, memory and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes help reduce stress reactivity and support long-term resilience. Even if formal seated meditation is not feasible, simple mindful presence can help. “I try to tell people to find small moments to come into their body, come into the moment and be present,” Toups advises. “You can do that by washing the dishes. You don’t need to sit in lotus position and chant for an hour.”
Creative Activities
“Every time you learn something new or do a novel task, you are promoting neuroplasticity,” explains Toups. Learning new skills, from juggling to speaking a new language, produces measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in brain matter volume. These changes can occur in both earlylearning phases and long-term practice, underscoring the brain’s capacity for adaptation throughout life.
Making music and dancing can strengthen connections in the brain; even the act of listening to music has been shown to enhance neural plasticity and cognitive flexibility. Toups recommends rocking out to a favorite song in the kitchen and choreographing a few dance moves.
Restorative Sleep
Rapid eye movement (REM), a stage of sleep marked by increased brain activity and vivid dreaming, plays an important role in neuroplasticity. During REM, the brain actively prunes unhelpful neural connections and reinforces others, supporting brain development, the learning of new skills and memory improvement.
To support consistent REM sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of shuteye and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time. A good night’s rest after learning a new skill or information can help that lesson integrate into the brain, supporting behavioral change.
Clean Air
Keeping the air in the home clean is important for overall brain health. Research suggests that mold toxicity may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, after researchers discovered traces of fungi inside the central nervous system of many Alzheimer’s patients—an infection that was absent in healthy individuals. Mold toxicity in the home can elicit an immune response and harm the brain. For example, a 2020 study found that black mold inhalation can cause inflammation in the hippocampus and reduce neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.
Practicing clean air habits can help assuage the risks of mold exposure at home. These include investing in an air purifier, ventilating regularly by opening windows, using exhaust fans and maintaining household ducts. Mold concerns can be investigated with a simple at-home testing kit, followed by professional testing and remediation, if needed.
Light Therapy
“Photobiomodulation is a powerful way to create neuroplasticity, both quickly and over the long term,” says Dr. Lew Lim, founder of the Vielight photobiomodulation (PBM) device, which has been studied in collaboration with universities and medical institutions, including the University of Toronto, Harvard Medical School and Mount Sinai Hospital.
PBM, also called light therapy, uses gentle red or near-infrared light to stimulate brain cells, boost the energy-producing parts of cells known as mitochondria, improve blood flow and calm inflammation. “When we activate the mitochondria with PBM, the mitochondria actually release growth factors, which support growth of new cells in the brain,” Lim explains.
According to Lim, PBM may help the brain protect and repair its neurons, encourage the growth of new connections and support the clearing of harmful waste proteins linked to cognitive decline. He asserts that certain light pulse frequencies, such as 40 hertz, may also help tune brainwave patterns that are important for memory and learning. While most research so far has been in small human studies or animal models, the results suggest that regular PBM could strengthen the brain’s natural ability to adapt and rewire itself. Some people use PBM as part of a daily routine to keep their minds sharp, while others use it to heal from more serious brain injuries.
Finding Community
Research shows that staying connected to others offers powerful protection for the brain. Older adults that feel lonely or spend long stretches without social contact face about a 50 percent higher risk of developing
dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, even when other health factors are taken into account. One long-term study found that memory and thinking skills declined 20 percent faster in those that reported feeling lonely.
Being socially active can help guard the brain against decline. For 25 years, the Northwestern University SuperAging Program has studied people in their 80s and beyond with nimble minds that work as well as people decades younger. Brain scans show that these study participants called SuperAgers do not exhibit the usual thinning of the brain’s outer layer normally seen with age, and one key area involved in attention and decision-making is thicker than even in middle-aged adults.
Under the microscope, SuperAger brain cells are larger, better connected and show fewer signs of Alzheimer’s damage or inflammation. These resilient individuals tend to be very social, valuing close relationships and staying engaged with others—habits that may work hand-in-hand with their unusually healthy brain structures to help protect thinking skills late in life.
Even a weekly coffee with a friend or joining a class can be powerful brain fuel. People with rich social lives, including those that regularly share time with friends, family and communities, tend to keep their minds sharper for longer.
An Evolving Brain
The brain is never truly fixed. It is a living, adapting system that can grow stronger, sharper and more resilient at any age, and we can guide those changes. Whether through movement, nutrition, light therapy, meditation or meaningful connection, every choice we make can help shape and rewire the mind for the better. The science is clear: it is never too late to nurture the brain’s potential. Embrace neuroplasticity as a lifelong journey and let each new day be an opportunity to learn, adapt and thrive.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and former writer at the National Institutes of Health. She also hosts “Root Shock”, a podcast exploring how cultural and systemic forces shape our understanding of health.
Creativity Therapy
Discovering the Healing Power of Crafting
by Megy Karydes
In living rooms, coffee shops and community centers across the country, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The arts and crafts of previous generations—from quilting, basketweaving and jewelry-making to painting, pottery and bookbinding—are experiencing an unprecedented renaissance that extends beyond nostalgia.
“This trend is a natural reaction to how much of people’s lives are spent on screens,” remarks Ivana Labuckas, clinical director at Build Bright Care Group, in Granada Hills, California. “People are constantly dealing with abstract tasks like emails or social media that never give them that satisfying feeling of being truly done. Crafting brings them back to something real.”
Digital Detox
Recent research published in Frontiers in Public Health found that engaging in arts and crafts activities increased people’s sense that life was worthwhile. Of the nearly 7,200 adult participants, those that engaged in creative activities self-reported higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction and overall well-being, even after accounting for employment status and socioeconomic conditions.
Making things with our hands may be just the digital detox we need. Crafting provides what Labuckas calls “a process people can control and a finished product they can actually hold in their hands, which provides a powerful sense of accomplishment and calm in a world that often feels out of their control.”
Anxiety Relief
The mental health benefits of hands-on crafting are also profound. “Craft-based activities tend to activate various regions of the brain linked with memory, attention and motor coordination,” explains Jessica Plonchak, clinical director at ChoicePoint, a mental health and addiction treatment center in Fairlawn, New Jersey. “Being engaged in slow-paced handwork works as a meditation for many people, as it keeps their minds in good coordination with rhythm and repetition.”
According to Plonchak, the rhythmic nature of crafting “ultimately increases dopamine levels, while reducing stress and anxiety levels.” Unlike the short-lived boosts from social media notifications, craft-induced dopamine provides sustained satisfaction and genuine mood elevation.
The focused attention required for counting stitches or following intricate patterns creates what psychologists call flow states—periods of deep engagement where stress and time seem to fade away. “Making something by hand is one of the best forms of practical mindfulness people can do,” says Labuckas. “The focused, rhythmic nature of these activities gives busy minds one thing to focus on, quieting the part of the brain that tends to replay worries.”
Kim Rippy, a licensed counselor and owner of Keystone Therapy Group, in Burke, Virginia, is also an avid crocheter. “Crafting slows
down the brain to shift into a more mindful state of focusing on the present,” she says. “One can’t count crochet stitches correctly if they’re worried about something else from the past or future.”
For Rippy, who manages patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, crafting serves as a powerful regulation tool. “Something in one’s hands that is productive helps the brain stop from drifting or becoming overwhelmed with anxious or intrusive thoughts,” she notes. This tactile engagement pulls attention away from worry and grounds it in present-moment awareness, a principle that underlies many therapeutic interventions.
Antidote to Overconsumption
The crafting renaissance also allows us to reuse and repurpose materials destined for the landfill. This shift from consumption to creation represents a reorientation of values. “Instead of just buying and discarding things, people realize the utmost importance of creating something of their own and preserving it,” Plonchak says. “It allows people to believe that, apart from being consumers, they are also the creators of something inventive and useful. This acknowledgment boosts self-esteem, improves emotional regulation and keeps the negative forces at bay.”
Consider upcycling fabric scraps into patchwork blankets, turning old CDs into mosaic art, transforming glass jars into lanterns or vases and wine corks into a trivet. To ensure the sustainability of a crafting project, use minimally toxic materials, avoiding new plastics, and be mindful to reduce waste at every step.
Igniting the Imagination
In her clinical work, Plonchak has witnessed firsthand that “crafting serves as a bridge to better mental health by offering moments of stillness and creativity.” It is a sophisticated form of therapy that engages multiple brain systems while providing sustainable, meaningful alternatives to digital entertainment.
As society navigates an increasingly complex and accelerated world, the wisdom needed is not found in the latest technology, but in time-tested practices. In every stitch and woven strand, we are not just creating treasured objects. We are choosing to craft calm, build community and rediscover what it means to be truly present in our own lives.
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
LubosHouska from pixabay/CanvaPro
The Healing Power of the Microbiome
The microbiome is one of the most important foundations of our health. These microbes support digestion, nutrient absorption, create a barrier against invaders, neutralize toxins, regulate immune responses, control inflammation, and produce vital vitamins and neurotransmitters that influence our brain. Often called the ‘second brain,’ the gut contains its own nervous system, the enteric nervous system which connects to the brain through the Vagus nerve. This gut-brain axis allows microbes to influence mental health as chemical messengers that are either calming or inflammatory. An inflamed gut equals an inflamed brain.
When microbes digest fiber, they produce short fatty chain acids (SCFAs)which include butyrate. Butyrate helps ‘plug leaks’ in the gut lining. When the microbiome becomes imbalanced, known as gut dysbiosis, the gut lining can become permeable (leaky gut), allowing toxins and food particles to leak into the bloodstream. This triggers systemic inflammation and contributes to food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, and mental health issues. Healthy gut bacteria produce essential brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glutamate, and BDNF, Ninety percent of serotonin is made in the gut.
GABA calms the nervous system and normalizes brain waves. BDNF supports the growth and protection of brain cells, and glutamate is crucial for learning and memory.
Without a diverse microbial community, harmful bacteria can take over. Antibiotics, which are not selective, can wipe out the entire microbiome, taking years to replenish. It can allow antibiotic resistant strains
like Clostridium difficile to gain a foothold, which has been linked to Autism and chronic diarrhea. ADHD is a manifestation of a deficient microbiome leading to leaky gut and chronic inflammation from triggers like gluten, affecting the brain response. All health conditions begin in the gut and start with microbial imbalance.
Many factors begin at birth including C-sections, bottle feeding and antibiotics. Other contributors are poor diet, artificial sweeteners, gluten, NSAIDs and antibacterial products that absorb through the skin. Yet, we can rebuild our microbiome. We must consider we are not only eating for ourselves but our microbes.
Include fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, pickled vegetables, and yogurt with live cultures. Take quality probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Which are important for mental health and the more you have will crowd out pathogenic bacteria
like Candida. Consider probiotic enemas if you've had repeated antibiotics. Feed your microbes prebiotic foods high in inulin like onions, garlic, leeks, artichokes, chicory, and dandelion greens. Resistant starches reach the colon fully intact to feed good bacteria, found in legumes, grains, unripe bananas, green peas and rice that has been cooked and cooled. Other sources of fiber include oats, flaxseed, apples and psyllium husk. For severe conditions, FMT (fecal microbial transplants) have shown to make drastic improvements.
As the microbiome gains more popularity, there are companies you can send out your stool to have your microbiome analyzed. A healthy gut truly leads to a healthy mind and body.
For more info: Soul Natural Alchemy, Leah Mary Quirk Soul. NaturalAlchemy@outlook.com. 610-438-0689. SoulNaturalAlchemy.com. Easton, PA. See ad, page 4.
The Art of Letting Go
by Marlaina Donato
Watching the days shorten at this time of year can tug at our heartstrings. Even within the delightful blush of an apple lies an undeniable wistfulness. And although summer must surrender to autumn, each falling leaf signals an opportunity to let go of a burden we’ve outgrown—a home, a relationship, a dream or a particular version of ourselves.
No matter which side of a goodbye we happen to be on, leaving can be painful. Just as the green meadow goes to seed, so does what we hold precious, but a spark of life remains in each fading blade of grass. Endings can also be blessings, even if it takes months or years before their gifts become known.
Each chapter of the year offers its own delights and wisdom, but it is our human tendency to clutch each hour for as long as possible. We can miss a harvest of joys when we only wish to taste the fruits of another season. For the ancient Celtic people, the holy time of Samhain marked the end of the harvest and the start of a new year. It was deemed a mystical time when the veil between the dead and the living grew thin, as well as an invitation to revel in some magic.
Perhaps this year we can grieve the bright transience of summer while gathering our spiritual stores. Perhaps we can relish autumn’s sweetness despite the dance of decay, inviting a new chapter, a new mindset, as nature takes back its own.
Some rites of passage for inspiration:
• Gather a small handful of sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Take each seed in hand and name something that has been lost or relinquished. Place them beneath a tree or bury them underground, inviting a new year of blessings.
• Taking inspiration from the Celts, host a Samhain celebration on Halloween night commemorating the end of summer and the beginning of winter while setting a plate and chair in honor of a loved one that has passed.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Smart Devices for Pets
Integrating Technology Into Daily Routines
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Advancements in technology are improving the daily lives of pets and their people. From collars equipped with global positioning systems (GPS) to wearable devices that monitor behavior and detect potential health shifts, these innovations are transforming the way we interact with our animal companions. Before embracing smart devices, however, pet parents should be informed about their potential benefits and limitations.
Location Trackers
GPS trackers attached to pet collars are gaining popularity, especially for active or escape-prone animals. Using satellite or cellular signals to continuously monitor a pet’s location, these devices help pet owners quickly locate stray companions.
A 2021 study conducted at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, revealed that the radiation exposure experienced by pets from GPS and Bluetooth devices is well below international safety standards, implying that adverse health effects are unlikely. The study also noted that adjusting how often a tracking device sends location data can influence a pet’s exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). For example, some devices transmit only every few hours when the pet is resting, but switch to every minute or every few seconds during periods of high activity. To further minimize RF-EMF exposure, the researchers recommend using a harness-mounted tracking device instead of a collar-mounted one.
In addition to GPS technology, microchips can serve as a reliable backup identification method. A microchip is a permanent form of identification implanted under the pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It cannot track a pet’s real-time location but stores a unique number linked to the owner’s contact details. If scanned at a clinic or shelter, it can help reunite lost pets with their owners.
Health Monitors
Although they do not replace veterinary care, health trackers can support early intervention and informed veterinary conversations. Certain devices monitor behaviors such as scratching, licking, shaking, sleeping and resting. They compare this data to the pet’s usual habits or population averages. Sudden changes may indicate discomfort and prompt further attention. Data from health trackers helps veterinarians and pet parents confirm concerns about allergies, anxiety or appetite changes.
These devices can be useful in busy or multi-pet homes. Owners may miss subtle changes, whereas trackers are capable of detecting them. The historical data can help veterinarians see patterns over time. Still, the data needs context, as not every change signals an illness. Environmental shifts, routine disruptions or the natural progression of aging can also impact an animal’s behavior. Trackers flag what is different, but they do not explain why.
While pet health trackers can provide valuable behavioral insights, metabolic estimates such as calorie burn should be interpreted with caution. A 2023 study published by AVMA Publications evaluated the accuracy of a popular dog activity monitor. The study of 23 healthy dogs over a 28-day period found that the monitor failed to accurately measure the dogs’ calorie expenditures. Notably, the device overestimated the calorie needs of most of the dogs, even when their body weights remained stable throughout the study period. While these devices can be useful for tracking trends and identifying changes, pet owners should exercise caution when using them to make dietary decisions.
Automatic Feeders
Feeding routines are crucial components of many pet health plans, particularly for animals experiencing food sensitivities, chronic illness or weight concerns. Smart feeders can automate portion
Smart Device Limitations
Smart pet technology can provide valuable insights into a pet’s daily habits, but it is essential to understand its limitations. These devices are not diagnostic tools. They cannot test for allergens, run lab work or evaluate physical symptoms. Their primary function is to serve as early warning systems, flagging subtle changes that pet parents might otherwise miss. It is important to refrain from solely relying on technology. Misinterpreting data can lead to unnecessary worry or delayed medical attention. Real observation and professional input remain indispensable.
control, meal timing and consistency. For veterinarian-guided weight-loss plans that rely on controlled food and calories intake, it is imperative to select devices that can deliver multiple daily feedings in precise, small portions. Most smart feeders work well for dry kibble. Some models feature sealed trays, microchip-activated lids or cooling compartments, making them suitable for wet or home-cooked meals.
Smart feeders can help maintain consistency and promote healthy habits but should not be considered standalone solutions for diet-related health concerns. They are most effective when integrated into a clinical feeding plan under the guidance of a veterinarian. This approach ensures that calorie needs are met, a healthy weight is maintained and potential dietary risks are minimized.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
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Feeding Our Brain Power
What To Eat for Mental Acuity
by Maya Whitman
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in 10 adults aged 45 and older experience worsening memory loss or cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. A 2022 study in JAMA Neurology indicates that 22 percent of adults over age 65 experience mild cognitive impairment. Our dietary choices significantly impact brain longevity, and what we avoid is equally important.
The late pioneering researcher Dr. Martha Clare Morris developed the MIND Diet, which merges the Mediterranean and DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diets to enhance cognitive function with plenty of delicious versatility. A 2015 study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that strict adherence to the MIND Diet can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 53 percent, while moderate adherence can lower it by 35 percent.
The MIND Diet is a stress-free, lifelong plan with bountiful menu options, including fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil. It accommodates glutenfree and plant-based preferences. With satiating breakfast options like Greek yogurt or scrambled eggs, spicy chili for lunch and fun dinner burrito bowls, this diet is flexible and beginner-friendly, allowing for moderate consumption of pasta, potatoes and bread, with a focus on whole-grain, complex carbohydrates over refined ones. It also recommends oven roasting instead of high-heat frying.
A Lifelong Investment
“You can never be too young to embrace brain-healthy dietary strategies in support of longevity. Early adoption of brain-healthy eating habits may also enhance cognitive reserve, strengthening the brain’s
resilience to neuropathological damage over time,” says neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, founder and CEO of the Willeumier Center for Advanced Research in Neurotrauma & Brain Rehabilitation, in California.
Embracing variety is important. “I like to have people think of brain-healthy food groups, not superfoods,” states Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and author of The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food. Fenn notes that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men “for reasons that have nothing to do with living longer. Alzheimer’s can start in the brain up to 30 years before the first symptoms. It’s never too early or too late. Data shows that switching to a brain-healthy diet can have benefits even in one’s 70s.”
The Link Neuroscience Institute, in California, recommends eating more colorful berries, fatty fish such as sardines, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and a moderate amount of high-quality dark chocolate to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mood disorders, including long-term depression. They also advise against consuming processed and fried foods, sugar, alcohol and sodium.
Cutting Out the Culprits
According to Willeumier, even a modest reduction in the intake of processed foods, including packaged products, sweetened cereals, deli meats and sugary beverages, can have a positive impact on brain health. She recommends the complete elimination of alcoholic beverages. “Neuroimaging studies, including the Whitehall II Study, which followed 550 participants over a 30-year period tracking alcohol intake and cognitive performance, suggest that there is no protective effect of alcohol on the brain, even from light drinking. Eliminate alcohol for the preservation of your long-term brain health.”
Certain foods accelerate brain aging, and Fenn recommends limiting or eliminating fast and fried foods, sugar, artificially sweetened
drinks, ultra-processed products and foods that are excessively high in saturated fat like butter and some cheeses. Certain cooking techniques are also problematic. “Frying, searing and grilling directly over high heat creates inflammatory particles called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs,” explains Fenn. “Think low-and-slow when you cook—low heat, slow cooking, braising, poaching, steaming and indirect grilling.”
Willeumier notes that these healthy eating habits can have an immediate effect on brain function by influencing neurotransmitter production, stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and improving cerebral blood flow, all of which can also help us to live longer, maintain our focus and thinking skills, and feel happier.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Mon-Fri 8am-7pm • Sat 9am-4pm • Sun 11am-3pm
Conscious Eating
SALMON AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
2 wild-caught salmon fillets
1 lb fresh asparagus, washed
2 Roma tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1 head butter lettuce, divided in half
½ lemon, sliced in two
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped
1 Tbsp fresh or dried thyme leaves
Sprinkle of oregano
Himalayan salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled
Place salmon in a baking dish and squeeze an even amount of lemon juice on each fillet. Season filets evenly with chopped garlic and thyme leaves. Add Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake salmon in the oven for 25 minutes.
Place asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Add Himalayan sea salt and black pepper to taste. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 15 minutes.
Serve salmon on a bed of butter lettuce with chopped Roma tomatoes, avocado and roasted asparagus on the side.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.
GREEN JUICE: MORNING HYDRATION BRAIN BOOST
YIELD: 1 SERVING
4 to 5 stalks of celery
½ to 1 whole cucumber, peeled
½ cup Italian parsley
½ cup baby spinach
2 to 3 stalks of red kale or Pacific kale
½ to 1 whole green apple, peeled and cored
Mix all ingredients together in a juicer or blender and enjoy.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.
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ImpactLivin g Sustainable Good
Calendar of Events
Wednesday, October 1
Stress Relief and Heart Health with Effortless Meditation™ – 6:30-7:45pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Wednesday, October 8
Anxiety & Stress Relief with Effortless Meditation™ – 3-4:15pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, Twin Ponds Holistic Health Center, West LVBreinigsville, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Tuesday, October 14
Anxiety Relief & Brain Health with Effortless Meditation™ – 6:30-7:45pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from stress, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Wednesday, October 22
Anxiety & Stress Relief with Effortless Meditation™ – 6:30-7:45pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, Stress Reduction Resources, Curtis Rd, Sinking Spring, PA, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Save the Date
Personal Psychic Readings with William Stillman Psychic Visionary
Receive messages from your departed loved ones and pets in the afterlife in a personal one-on-one session with William in our Lehigh Valley Location in Emmaus.
If your loved ones in the afterlife could speak, what would they tell you? William channels messages from your loved ones, bringing opportunity for healing the heart and giving you permission for closure, comfort and healing. Explore psychic and autism bios, testimonials and videos on www.williamstillman.com
Appt times: 11:45 - 1:00 - 2:15 - 3:30 - 4:45 - 6:00. Days available : 10/17/2510/25/25 10/31/25.
Call or text Marie Ruxton: 610-703-7670 for appointment.
216 N. Fourth Street Emmaus, PA 18049
Ongoing Events
Daily
Free Your Heart-Chakra Challenge (24/7) A FREE online course to get out of your head & into your heart with 3 simple tools. In 2 hours or less learn meditation, journaling & art play expressing left/right brain energies. Enroll now: MichelleLeeArtsStudio.com/p/ Free-Your-Heart- Chakra-Challenge. Narcotics Anonymous – If you think you have a drug problem, and are tired of being sick and tired, there is a better way. Call 24hour helpline 610-439-1998. We are here to help. You are not alone.
Radiant HeART Rising (24/7) A soulistic experience to unblock your heart, embrace self-love & empower an inspired life, using yoga, meditation & heart-chakra art making. Take this online course at your pace for $33: MichelleLeeArtsStudio.com/p/RadiantHeart-Rising.
Sunday
Sunday Services – Metaphysical and nondenominational. Rev. Lloyd Moll, Pastor –Unique Sunday services 10:30am. All welcome! St. John’s Church of Faith, 607 Washington St Allentown. 610-776-7211.
CoDA i s a 12-Step Fellowship of people with a common purpose to recover from codependency. The only requirement for membership in CoDA is a desire for healthy and loving relationships. Meetings are Tuesday 7-8:30pm at Calvary Baptist Church 4601 W. Tilghman St. Allentown, PA 18104. Questions; call Jim at 610-264-7046 or visit coda. org.
Wednesday
LV Lyme Support Group – First Wednesday of every month (except July we are off) at 7pm at 4007 Greenpond Rd, Country Meadows Bethlehem 18020 . We meet in last building 2nd floor chapel. Lots of brochures and guidance! Heidi Healy, Moderator 973610-0531.
Save the Date
Inner Peace Holistic Wellness & Gem Expo
Enjoy vendors of crystals and gems, wellness products, handcrafted soaps, jewelry, holistic pet care, plus foot detox, reiki, massage, mediums, acupuncture, sound therapy and so much more! Free lectures and giveaways all weekend.
Saturday, November 1, 10am – 6pm Sunday, November 2, 10am – 5pm
$10/weekend. Veterans always free. Hamburg Field House, Pine St, Hamburg, PA InnerPeaceHolisticExpo.com
Greater Lehigh Valley Business Directory
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 DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
EASTMAN ACUPUNCTURE
LAURA EASTMAN, M.AC., L.AC. 1617 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18102
484-425-2865
Eastman-Acupuncture.com
Eastman Acupuncture provides high quality, individualized acupuncture treatments to the Lehigh Valley community. We see patients for a wide range of symptoms such as pain, headaches, neuropathy, digestive issues, incontinence, anxiety and much more. We use a variety of techniques including Dr. Tan’s Balance Method, Master Tung points and electroacupuncture.
LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC
Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac.
Dr. Jennifer K. Bollinger, DC, L.Ac. 8026 Hamilton Blvd. Trexlertown, PA 18087
610-395-5509
LiveWellIntegratedHealth.com
LiveWell Integrated Health offers traditional Chinese acupuncture, chiropractic, body work, and nutritional and lifestyle coaching. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice...choose to LiveWell. See ad, page 3.
Holistic Practitioner
SOUL NATURAL HEALTH
Leah Mary Quirk
soulnaturalhealth@outlook.com
Text 610-730-8975 SoulNaturalHealth.com Easton, Pennsylvania
I am a certified Ayurveda practitioner, herbalist and reiki healer. Did you know over 80% of Americans have intestinal parasitic infections? Parasites, gut dysbiosis and food sensitivities are a root cause of many auto-immune diseases, cancer, digestive and mental health disorders. I am very gifted at finding the root cause for client’s dealing with chronic health issues. I offer holistic health consultations with custom herbal formulas and reiki healing. See ad, page 4.
Bodywork
MARIE RUXTON
THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
Marie Ruxton CMT, CN 628 Chestnut St., Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-2500
Marie is a certified massage therapist trained since 1997 in Advanced Myofascial Release Therapy, Therapeutic Massage, Reiki, Ear Candling, Homeopathy and Holistic Nutrition. Offers comprehensive custom bodywork for those wanting to overcome chronic pain and movement problems. Sessions range from a (2 hour) Head to Toe meltdown massage to “Just Neck and Head” massage for those needing stress relief. Gift certificates available. See ad, page 18.
Chiropractor
ASSOCIATED CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Joseph A. Perelli 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111
AssociatedChiropractic.com
Dr. Perelli has served the Lehigh Valley for 31 years delivering natural, hands-on chiropractic care for neck, mid-back, low back and extremity conditions. He specializes in sports, auto and work comp injuries with various holistic treatments to get you back to your pre-injury status quickly.
HEALING WAVE CHIROPRACTIC
Shaun M Gallagher, DC 425 Allentown Drive, Allentown, PA 18109 484-222-8855 HealingWaveChiro.com info@healingwavechiro.com
Experience gentle, transformative care with NetworkSpinal— low-force chiropractic without cracking—just natural, hands-on healing for stress, trauma, and a better future. Feel balanced, build resilience, and connect to your body’s innate wisdom. State-of-the-art testing guides personalized care plans for lasting results. Ready to reclaim your vitality? Start your journey today with a free consultation!
LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC
Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac. Dr. Jennifer K. Bollinger, DC, L.Ac. 8026 Hamilton Blvd. Trexlertown, PA 18087
610-395-5509
LiveWellIntegratedHealth.com
LiveWell Integrated Health offers traditional Chinese acupuncture, chiropractic, body work, and nutritional and lifestyle coaching. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice...choose to LiveWell. See ad, page 3.
Clinical Nutritionist
BETHLEHEM NUTRITION & WELLNESS CENTER
Kathy Harrington, MS Functional Medical Nutritionist 3400 Bath Pike, Ste. 101 Bethlehem 610-419-3909
BethlehemNutrition.com
Bethlehem Nutrition & Wellness Center, we give you the tools to bring you and your family into a state of optimal health. Using the most advanced nutritional testing available, we look for the underlying cause of your health problems. Once the underlying cause is addressed not only do symptoms go away, but your overall health can also be greatly improved. See ad, page 13.
Counseling – Holistic SMART SOLUTIONS AND CREATIVE HOLISTIC THERAPY
Rev. Lyn S. Felix, MSW, LCSW, CHT, RM 3037 S. Pike Ave. #105, Allentown PA 18103
610-282-0709
CreativeHolisticTherapy.com
A holistic, highly intuitive counselor, coach and vibrational chakra rebalancing practitioner who supports you in getting unstuck and moving forward. Using mindfulness, hypnotherapy, EFT, Reiki, tuning forks, breathwork, and more, Rev. Lyn guides you step by step from chaos to calm and confidence. Insurances & Private Pay. Free Phone Consultation.
Depression
TMS CENTER
Dr. Paul Gross
401 N. 17th St., Suite 304, Allentown, PA
610-820-0700
www.Tmslv.com
Thousands in the Lehigh Valley struggle with depression every day, but thanks to the TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley, they are not alone in their fight. We are the region’s first transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment facility and one of the most experienced centers on the east coast, having performed over ten thousand TMS treatments. See ads, pages 2.
The EE System generates bio-active energy fields called “Scalar Waves”. These promote wellness, cell regeneration, improved immune function, relieve pain, body detoxification, elevated mood, and balancing of the right and left-brain hemispheres for increased energy levels. Ultimately, it assists in facilitating an optimal healing environment that can assist the body to begin healing itself.
Events & Retreats Resort
MAGNOLIA STREAMSIDE RESORT
570 595-2489
2518 Route 390 Canadensis, PA 18325 MagnoliaStreamside.com inna@MagnoliaStreamside.com
Magnolia Streamside Resort offers streamside lodging and a one-of-a-kind event wedding venue. From the chapel in our enchanted forest to festivities in a 4,000 ft pavilion surrounded by a gorgeous mountain stream. Magnolia is a perfect destination wedding resort venue. We invite you to enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of this nature oasis for a wholesome wedding weekend experience or a perfect getaway with your friends and family. See ad, page 15.
Funeral Services
NICOS C. ELIAS FUNERAL HOME, INC
Nicos C. Elias, Supervisor Allentown, PA 610-433-2200
Nicos@EliasFuneralHome.com EliasFuneralHome.com
Mr. Elias offers several different green and eco-friendly funeral plans using biodegradable caskets, preservation without chemicals. A natural, back to the earth approach. Biodegradable urns for those choosing cremation.
Green Cemetery
GREEN MEADOWS AT FOUNTAIN HILL CEMETERY
1121 Graham Street, Fountain Hill, PA 18015 610-868-4840
GreenMeadowPA.org
The only green cemetery in the Lehigh Valley. A cemetery of wildflowers and grasses native to Pennsylvania. Return to the natural cycle of life to nourish the soil, green the meadow and live on. Nondenominational. Non-profit. Speakers available to visit organizations. See ad, page 25.
Hyperbaric Therapy
ELIXIR HEALTH & WELLNESS
Hypnosis & Hypnosis Training
STREAM HYPNOSIS, LLC
40 South 5th St Suite 203 Allentown 18101 570-617-5325
Achieve your personal best in sports, sales public speaking and more. Whether you need to eliminate chronic pain, achieve your ideal body weight, reduce stress, or kick the smoking habit hypnosis is a useful tool that can help you move forward. Individual and group sessions, remote and in person sessions. Board Certified Hypnotist with NGH. See ad, page 7.
RESULTS WELLNESS CENTER, LLC
Jacqueline LeClaire 6120 W. Main Blvd., Bath, PA 18014
JacquelineLeClaire.com
484-264-3889
Become a Certified Hypnotherapist / Become a Certified Reiki Practitioner, Usui Master. Jacqueline LeClaire is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master Trainer with the International Association of Counselors and Therapists and Reiki Master for over two decades. She is the owner of Results Wellness Center, LLC.
Kangen Water
1021 Main St., Bethlehem PA 18018 elixirbethlehem@gmail.com www.ElixirLV.com
Elixir Health & Wellness is an east meets west, holistic approach for longevity and anti-aging. We offer mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT), Red Light Therapy, Compression Therapy, and Metabolomic testing. These can be combined to optimize health or be used as stand alone therapies for specific goals. Protocols are tailored to each individual client.
Since 1974, Enagic® has been a leading innovator of pure water technology and has transformed the way we look at water and its role in a healthy and vibrant life. Enagic® specializes in producing ionized alkaline water systems that transform ordinary tap water into healthy, hydrating, alkaline Kangen Water® for cooking, cleaning, drinking and sanitizing. See ad, page 3.
Landscaping
BEAR CREEK ORGANICS
570-582-0615
BearCreekOrganics@gmail.com
BearCreekOrganics.com
We create organic and ecological edible landscapes. With mother nature as our teacher, and extensive knowledge of edible plants,. We develop beautiful food production systems that support your needs and the needs of the natural wildlife. No matter the size of your budget we will help you create an edible landscape that is right for you. See ad, page 9.
Marketing
NATURAL AWAKENINGS
DR. DEKA RODGER ND, MBA
Owner/Publisher 610-421-4443
Naturopath
NATURAL HEALTH PROMOTION LLC
Tina Stashko, PhD MIfHI Emmaus, PA 18049
610-965-8132
NaturalHealthPromotion.net
Specializing in preventative healthcare, digestion and nutrient absorption, and thyroid and adrenal health. Modalities such as iridology, sclerology and biochemical balancing enable the development of your unique program for optimum health. These programs are easy to follow and incorporate into your daily life. Reach your full health potential!
Wellness Spa
MAGNOLIA INN & WELLNESS CENTER
570 671-2121
11 Knob Road Mt Poconos, PA 18325 magnoliapoconos.com
oksanna@magnloiapoconos.com
Classifieds
Opportunities
Bear Creek Organics is hiring! We are looking for skilled landscapers who are passionate about Ecological Edible Landscaping. Permaculture Design Certificate preferred. Email resume and cover letter to: Richie@BearCreekOrganics.com
Calling Holistic Presenters – Facilitate your workshop or retreat at our Upper Bucks center, with peaceful country setting, meditation gardens, and woods. GreenShireArts.org. Email info@GreenShireArts.org or call 215-538-0976.
Holistic Chiropractor, Naturopath or Natural Functional Medicine Practitioner Needed – Join our comprehensive solution Wellness Center in Stroudsburg. Access to over 2000 clients in a professional, dedicated facility. Call Vicki at 570-977-1900 to discuss.
Due to his extensive background in business and marketing and built his own practice through the Natural Awakenings magazine he can take businesses to the next level. Also, with a strong background in keeping fit and understanding all aspects of exercising. He also teaches a Nutrition Certification Course over a 6-month period, students completing this course and passing all exams can put the designation CNC after their name. See ads, pages 3, 5 and 32.
Massage
KONNECTIONS MASSAGE
Kathy Hatcher, LMT 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111
KonnectionsMassage.com
Kathy has been administering deep tissue, therapeutic, medical, pregnancy and aromatherapy massage since 1996. Her NEWEST services are Ionic Foot Cleanse Detoxification as well as Red-light therapy for non-surgical weight loss and chronic pain management. Insurance billing for massage available.
Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center is state of an art wellness hub that offers an extensive array of cutting-edge wellness modalities like Floating Therapy, Cryotherapy, IV Therapy, Colon Hydrotherapy and so much more. Our medical director, therapists, and staff are committed to helping our clients achieve TRUE health by accessing their optimal vitality and longevity. Membership programs are available and designed to make our services accessible to our local community. See ad, page 15.
Wellness Spapothecary
HERBS TO YOUR SUCCESS
Vanessa Sabatine
64 South Main St., Nazareth, PA 18064 610-365-8996 • HerbsToYourSuccess.com
Herbs to Your Success is a health & wellness spa located in Nazareth, offering multiple holistic spa experiences and herbal remedies. We also offer a wide selection of essential oils, teas, skincare, make-up and more! We provide high quality spa services to our customers and our friendly and courteous staff guarantees exceptional customer service. See ad, page 2.
Products
Crystal Tones Singing Bowls – Classic & Alchemy for meditation & vibrational healing. Also offering personal vibration testing. Contact Anthony at Life Holistic Center, 570-706-6680 or LifeHolistic@hotmail.com. See more at LifeHolistiReiki.com.
Interactive Dementia and Alzheimer Game – An interactive and fun family game that will bring a twinkle to the eye and smile on the face. Call 484-8605894. HighRollDice.com.
Two Green Burial Plots for Sale – At Green Meadows Burial Ground in Fountain Hill, PA. $1,800 total.Call 610-6984921.
Services
Spiritually guided card readings offered in person, or via phone, parties also welcome. Channeled messages are for your highest good. Let my gifts guide you! Reasonable rates. Cheryl 908-268-8029.
Readings with intuitive counselor, Reiki also available. Free 10-minute initial session. Evelyn peptel62@gmail.com. 551804-7571.
Free Phone Reading for Lightworkers. Your Higher-Self reveals the blocks that are slowing you from growing your practice/business. Email Enaid to learn more. enaid-rensporp@ProtonMail.com
Kula Heart Yoga & Wellness, LLC contracts self motivated and ethical bodyworkers and yoga instructors to serve Bath and the Lehigh Valley. If you are interested in growing your business, making your own hours and being a part of a Wellness Center that is filled with compassion, professionalism, and FUN! Submit your interest to info@ KulaHeartYogaAndWellness.com.
