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December is here, the last month of the year and in my humble opinion, the most special of all. It’s the month we welcome the birth of Christ and, with it, the spirit of Christmas.
Now that we are in the age of AI, I ventured to ask ChatGPT to define the “spirit of Christmas,” and here is what it offered: “The spirit of Christmas is about giving, compassion and love, and it centers on the Christian celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. It encourages a focus on kindness and joy and involves acts of service and generosity rather than material gifts. The spirit is found in acts of love and sacrifice, putting others’ needs first, and sharing peace and understanding with everyone.”
I also found this excerpt on the spirit of Christmas from the Orthodox Christian Network’s website, “It’s the incarnation. The Son of God becomes a human son. Christ became a human person. This is the great event that warms every one of us, which warms the whole of humankind. This is the exceeding love of God for us that made Him become ‘one of us’. This is the act that casts far away the notion of ‘religion’, because ‘religion’ is the creation of God by us humans, whereas what we have here is the revelation of God to us. With this incarnation, the path to heaven, which was blocked, is open again and our bridge of communication with God has been rebuilt. Christ, with His incarnation, has taken us back to our state before the Fall, to our former beauty. We celebrate because we can become gods, without the lapse of Adam and Eve which meant we were without God and far-removed from Him. We’re deified through God.”
Pretty amazing wisdom.
Many experience Christmas through tradition, family, gift-giving and celebration. Others feel an even deeper connection through worshiping Christ—the one who became one of us and died for us, to wash away sin, so we may live forever. That, to me, is the true meaning of Christmas.
Still, I love the gift-giving part too. It warms my heart to see a loved one’s surprise when their gift is received—when their day becomes a little brighter and they feel loved and seen. Now that’s joy!
I hope you have a joyous Christmas shared with the ones you love. But if you can’t, do not despair. Go spread joy to someone who could really use it. Make someone laugh. Give an unexpected gift. It will truly make your day.
Merry Christmas!
Michelle Smith, Publisher
Each month, a credentialed expert in natural or integrative health shares clinical insights, success stories, or emerging evidence from their field. Professional Pulse offers an informed and inspiring look at the positive impact of holistic approaches to health and healing. If you would like to contribute evidence-informed stories from your practice—client successes, emerging research, or innovative approaches that are making a difference—please email your name, credentials, area of expertise, and a brief summary of your story idea. We would love to hear from you!
Peak Alkalinity
Positive Outcomes with Heart-Centered Healing
For the past eight years, Peak Alkalinity has served as a trusted wellness sanctuary in Baldwin County, offering a calm, supportive environment where individuals can explore natural, evidence-informed practices that help the body heal and thrive. Co-founders Missy and Bob Will built the center with one guiding intention: to create a space where people feel “seen, heard, supported and empowered in their all-natural wellness journey.”
As a pharmacist who shifted to natural methodologies more than a decade ago, Missy describes her work as both professional and deeply personal. “My role goes well beyond running a wellness center,” she says. “I help people reconnect with their bodies and discover simple, all-natural solutions that help them feel better from the inside out.”
She credits Peak Alkalinity’s success to its outstanding team, who help guide clients toward the modalities best suited to their goals—whether they’re seeking detoxification, pain relief, improved breathing, stress reduction, enhanced circulation, or overall healing and reset.
The approach at Peak Alkalinity is intentionally unhurried. Clients are encouraged to ask questions, learn about their own physiology, and understand how each therapy supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms. “Our focus is on practical, attainable, evidence-informed wellness,” Missy explains. “Creating moments of healing isn’t a luxury—they’re essential to long-term well-being.”
Many clients initially walk through the door out of curiosity. They return—and often become long-term patrons—because the results speak for themselves. Stress levels are higher than ever before, Missy notes, and people are increasingly seeking integrative ways to support their physical, mental and emotional well-being. “Even incremental shifts in your routine can significantly improve your quality of life,” she says.
Testimonials from Peak Alkalinity’s clientele reflect that impact. Clients regularly report increased energy, improved sleep, and a renewed sense of balance. “One client told us
her skin feels clearer and more hydrated than it has in years,” Missy shares. Another noted, “After switching to alkaline water, I felt a physical difference within two days. I’m more hydrated, my skin has improved, and I feel more balanced than I have in a long time.” Athletes frequently cite faster recovery and improved stamina, with one saying, “My recovery time from physical stress—whether in the gym or outdoors—is cut almost in half. And the water tastes clean and crisp.”
Many chronic concerns also improve. Clients who neutralize acidity through alkaline water and regular therapies experience relief from issues such as acid reflux and gout. Those with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions have shared sustained improvement over months of consistent sessions. Several regulars say the salt room has helped them manage allergies, asthma, colds, congestion and even the lingering effects of mold exposure.
Peak Alkalinity continues expanding its offerings, from alkaline water, detox modalities, and salt therapy to the addition of cutting-edge tools like BrainTap. “We’re always looking for safe, effective tools that help our community thrive,” Missy says. “Your wellness. Your balance. Your reset. We’re here when you’re ready.”
Missy Will, co-founder of Peak Alkalinity, LLC, holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and previously served as a Divisional VP for a Fortune 68 company. A former collegiate athlete, she blends science, leadership and holistic wellness to help others improve hydration, pH balance and overall vitality.
Peak Alkalinity is located at 217-B Fairhope Ave. in Fairhope. For more information, call 251-270-7200 or visit PeakAlkalinity.com.
Natural Beauty
Discover beauty rooted in nature. NATURAL BEAUTY partners offer products and services that nourish the body and honor the planet, prioritizing clean ingredients, holistic care and sustainable practices. From holistic skincare to therapeutic treatments, this page celebrates gentler, healthier, natural ways to look and feel your best.
Special rates include full color ad, community resource guide and social media.
Ayurveda Detox for Multiple Sclerosis Relief
A 2025 observational study in India, published in the International Journal of Medical and Public Health, investigated the effectiveness of Ayurveda, specifically Panchakarma therapy, in managing pain and improving the quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune neurological disease that inflames and damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Panchakarma involves cleansing procedures designed to detoxify the body and balance the three doshas (energies) in Ayurveda—vata, pitta and kapha
Over the span of four years, 120 female MS patients aged 19 to 50 received personalized Panchakarma treatments, including snehana (oil therapy), swedana (steam therapy), vamana (induced vomiting), virechana (purgation), basti (enema), nasya (nasal therapy) and rasayana (rejuvenation), alongside yoga and meditation. While 20 percent of the participants showed limited benefits, the remaining 80 percent experienced significant improvements in self-reported pain, mobility and overall well-being, allowing them to reduce their reliance on corticosteroids.
While observational studies lack control groups and cannot establish causal relationships, they can be useful for exploring associations. Further research with larger sample sizes and a control group is needed to confirm these findings.
Ultra-Processed Foods Undermine the Healthiest Diets
Ultra-processing breaks down whole foods into components and recombines them with additives, flavors, colors and emulsifiers, often making them high in calories, salt, sugar and fat. A 2024 study published in eClinicalMedicine examined the consumption of ultra-processed and minimally processed foods among 200,000 adults with various dietary patterns, including regular red meat eaters, low red meat eaters, flexitarians, pescatarians, vegetarians and vegans. Food frequency questionnaires and food diaries were used to determine diet type and ultra-processed food intake.
Across all diet types, ultra-processed foods made up roughly one-fifth to one-quarter of total daily food intake. Vegetarians and vegans consumed slightly more ultra-processed foods than regular red meat eaters. Low red meat eaters, flexitarians and pescatarians ate modestly fewer ultra-processed foods than regular red meat eaters. All other groups ate more minimally processed foods than regular red meat eaters.
These findings challenge the assumption that plant-based diets inherently contain fewer processed foods. Vegetarian diets included slightly more ultra-processed foods than meat-heavy diets, while diets with modest amounts of meat or fish had the lowest ultra-processed food levels.
The authors noted that plant-based diets vary in quality depending on the degree of processing. While meat and dairy alternatives are often perceived as sustainable, many are highly processed. Simply replacing meat with packaged plant products may not yield the expected health or environmental benefits.
Building Emotional Resilience in Cancer Survivors
Cancer survivors often experience emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression and fatigue. A study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated how mind-body practices could support the emotional recovery of nearly 600 cancer survivors with breast, prostate and gastrointestinal cancers, from early to advanced stages.
Participants were either randomly assigned or chose to join mindfulness-based cancer recovery (MBCR) or a tai chi/qigong (TCQ). Each program group was split into those that began their program immediately and a control group that was placed on a waitlist. The MBCR group met weekly for nine weeks and attended a six-hour weekend retreat between weeks six and seven. The TCQ group met weekly for 11 weeks and for a four-hour weekend retreat. Both groups were encouraged to practice daily at home for 30 to 45 minutes.
By the end of the study, both groups showed significant mood improvements compared to the waitlist control group, regardless of whether they chose their program or were randomly assigned. The MBCR group had the greatest reductions in tension, anger and fatigue, with increased energy. The TCQ group notably lowered depression and anger, and boosted vitality. Women benefited more from the MBCR program than men, while younger participants and those with advanced cancer cases responded more strongly to the TCQ program. The study provides strong evidence that gentle mind-body practices are powerful tools to support emotional healing of cancer survivors.
Understanding How Magic Mushrooms Affect the Brain
Psilocybin, a naturally psychedelic compound found in fungi known as magic mushrooms, distorts space-time perception. A 2024 study published in Nature investigated the brain activity of seven healthy adults before, during and three weeks after taking a high dose of psilocybin and methylphenidate, a stimulant commonly used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Participants returned six to 12 months later for another psilocybin dose. Researchers used 18 magnetic resonance images (MRI) to track specific brain changes.
The study revealed that psilocybin significantly disrupted brain connectivity pathways, particularly in regions of the brain linked to self-awareness, time and space, with the most notable changes in the default mode network (DMN). The DMN includes brain regions associated with the sense of self and reality that are active during self-reflection, daydreaming, memory retrieval and mind-wandering.
Psilocybin’s disruption of brain activity could explain the profound changes in perception reported by users. Participants with greater brain changes reported more intense experiences. The brain connectivity desynchronization persisted for weeks, potentially explaining the enduring therapeutic benefits in treating conditions like depression.
Local Health Brief
Follow Your Bliss
by Betty Sue O’Brian
Many people begin the new year with a quiet question: Am I living in a way that brings me joy? For some, the answer is a gentle yes. For others, it’s a nudge—a feeling that perhaps a new chapter in wellness, purpose or vitality is calling.
Across the Gulf Coast, more individuals are turning to natural, holistic practices to rediscover the spark that modern life often dims. These approaches encourage people to reconnect with their bodies and embrace simple shifts that support overall wellness. From soaking in aromatic essential oils to choosing nourishing foods that boost energy and mood, natural living offers countless pathways to feeling more alive.
Many are also exploring modalities such as energy work, muscle testing, herbalism, living foods, Reams biological testing and iridology— tools that honor the body’s innate wisdom and support long-term balance. As interest grows, so does the desire for trustworthy, accessible education that helps people integrate these practices safely and meaningfully.
With so many online programs and mixed information available, finding a grounded, personalized learning environment can make all the difference. Small steps toward holistic living have the power to transform lives, offering empowerment, curiosity and joyful exploration. This approach reminds us that wellness is not a destination, but a daily practice—one that unfolds gently, choice by choice.
Following your bliss may be simpler than it seems. Sometimes, it begins with choosing one small thing that nourishes your soul, sparks joy or reconnects you to the natural world.
Local educator and natural health advocate Betty Sue O’Brian, is the founder of the Southern Institute of Natural Health. To connect, visit SouthernInstituteOfNaturalHealth.com. See ad, page 29.
mscornelius from Getty Images/CanvaPro
kali9 from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
A New Era for Ocean Conservation Begins
After two decades of effort, the High Seas Treaty, officially the Treaty for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, was ratified by Morocco (the 60th nation) in September, becoming international law in January 2026. Although the United States signed the treaty, it has not been ratified by the Senate. This treaty replaces a patchwork of international and industrial organization rules.
The treaty establishes a legal framework to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in two-thirds of the oceans beyond any country’s exclusive economic zone. The treaty’s goals are to protect marine life; establish protected areas; regulate marine genetic resources; and promote equitable benefit sharing, capacity building,
A New Piece in the Human Evolutionary Puzzle
A New Scientist article confirmed that a 146,000-year-old skull found 90 years ago in Harbin, China, belongs to a Denisovan, an ancient hominin race. This discovery provides scientists with a clear image of Denisovans, which had faces similar to ours, but with prominent brow ridges, a smaller forehead and a long braincase. Researchers believe that Denisovans are more closely related to modern humans than Neanderthals, based on the estimated age of our common ancestors. This finding will prompt a reevaluation of other East Asian fossils.
Denisovans were first identified in 2010 through a finger bone and teeth found in a cave in Siberia, Russia. Scientists matched mitochondrial DNA from the Siberian tooth to Denisovan proteins in the skull.
marine technology transfer and environmental-impact assessment of oceanic activities.
The Fall of Orange Juice
Once a staple of the American breakfast, health and economic concerns have led to a decline in orange juice consumption. Beginning in the 1950s, the Florida Citrus Commission promoted it to boost vitamin C levels and prevent colds and acidosis, a condition where the body accumulates too much acid. At its peak, three-quarters of households kept orange juice in their refrigerators.
Over the past 20 years, orange juice consumption has plummeted by nearly 50 percent. It contains as much sugar as soda, contributing to the obesity and diabetes crises. The price has surged by 67 percent in the past decade, driven by the loss of almost 92 percent of Florida’s citrus groves due to a bacterial disease spread by an invasive insect, which makes the fruit bitter and weakens the trees, and by an increase in hurricanes linked to global warming. Hurricane Milton alone destroyed an estimated 20 percent of Florida’s orange crop.
Cultivating Joy
How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives
by Hannah Tytus
“Discovering more joy does not, I’m sorry to say, save us from the inevitability of hardship and heartbreak. In fact, we may cry more easily, but we will laugh more easily, too. Perhaps we are just more alive,” reflected the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu in The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World, where he shared wisdom alongside the Dalai Lama.
Joy invites us to be more alive. It surfaces through awareness, connection and acceptance of the present moment, exactly as it is. As winter days grow shorter and the year draws to a close, this is a wonderful time to explore what joy truly is, the things that block it and how it can be reclaimed. Ultimately, joy is not a reward for a perfect life, but a way of being that reminds us to embody our full humanity. Though sometimes fleeting, joy can be profoundly sustaining.
A Physical Experience
“Joy is much bigger than happiness,” asserted Tutu. “While happiness is often seen as being dependent on external circumstances, joy is not.” This mindset—rooted in both heart and spirit—aligns closely with the Dalai Lama’s vision that genuine fulfillment comes from recognizing the deep interconnectedness of all living beings. Joy is an embodied emotion that is distinct from happiness. Happiness is stable, evaluative and may reflect broader life satisfaction—a contentment with one’s career, finances, family, romantic relationships or personal fulfillment—while joy is experienced in the present moment. It is intense, yet fleeting.
In a study conducted in 2025 and published in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, researchers interviewed 14 adults about their expe-
riences of joy. The findings explain joy as a complex emotion shaped by individual, relational and cultural contexts. According to the research, joy is intense, transcendent and deeply felt—often arising spontaneously in response to meaningful experiences or connections.
In contrast, happiness encompasses a broader spectrum, exhibiting greater stability, and is associated with life satisfaction and contentment. Participants described joy as a somatic experience, identifying sensations such as “a rush of warmth and lightness throughout the body,” “electricity,” “a bubbling up,” and “tingling sensations,” accompanied by “the urge to move, smile and embrace others.” These visceral reactions often accompanied moments of intense connection, awe and accomplishment.
If joy is felt through the body, movement itself becomes a doorway to experience it more fully. This cultivation of joy is the cornerstone of Jennifer Joy Jiménez’s life’s work. A pioneer in integrative movement and founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & Well-Being Division, she developed TranscenDANCE, a conscious dance modality for all ages and mobility levels designed to improve mental, emotional and physical health through inspiring music, body positivity and free-form movement.
Conscious dance is any form of movement that emphasizes mindfulness, inner exploration and emotional release rather than performance or choreography. Although these transformative movement practices have existed for thousands of years, Jiménez laments that for many Americans, dance may be confined to weddings, occasional outings or fitness classes, leaving little room for the expressive and emotive daily practice that “allows our soul-self to move our human self.”
Jiménez asserts, “Just a few minutes of dancing releases the happy hormones, offering a DOSE [dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins] that shifts our mood better than any antidepressant.” Scientific evidence supports this assertion. A 2024 meta-analysis published in The BMJ analyzed 218 clinical trials, demonstrating that dance was more effective in alleviating depression symptoms than walking, yoga, strength training and even traditional antidepressants.
The Social Nexus
Joy thrives on connection. While it can arise in solitude, it naturally expands most effectively through relationships and shared humanity. When individuals feel seen, supported and part of something larger than themselves, their sense of well-being deepens.
The 2024 World Happiness Report identifies social support as one of the strongest predictors of life satisfaction. Similarly, the Harvard Study of Adult Development—one of the longest-running longitudinal studies of human health—has shown that healthy, fulfilling relationships are the single greatest predictors of both longevity and life satisfaction.
This growing body of research underscores that social connection shapes health across our lifespan. Individuals that maintain meaningful relationships exhibit lower risks of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, infections, cognitive decline and depression compared to those that are lonely. When people share laughter, empathy or a sense of belonging, they exhibit improvements to their nervous system and immune
function, as well as an expanded capacity to experience joy.
Isolation’s Impact
While connection nurtures joy, disconnection erodes it. In The Book of Joy, the Dalai Lama identified loneliness as one of the most significant obstacles to joy, emphasizing that it arises not from isolation itself, but from a mindset of separation. A person can live alone in the wilderness and still feel content, while another may feel lonely in a crowded room. Loneliness, he suggests, emerges when the heart closes—when anger, fear or stress obscure the ability to perceive warmth in others.
Many modern experiences reinforce this sense of separation. Chronic stress, fatigue, poverty and depression all constrict the emotional space needed for joy. Cultural ideals built around constant happiness add another layer of strain. Researchers describe how placing pressure on ourselves to be perpetually positive leads us to suppress authentic emotion, rather than cultivate genuine contentment. The Dalai Lama observed that persistent anxiety keeps the mind spinning in worry, unable to rest in presence.
Emotional avoidance further narrows the capacity for joy. According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, individuals that intentionally process difficult experiences report a 40 percent increase in life satisfaction. Gratitude research suggests the reason behind this phenomenon: Recognizing joy requires openness and receptivity. When individuals soften their defenses and allow life’s full range of emotion, they create space for joy to return.
Cultivating Gratitude
Adopting an attitude of gratitude is one of the best ways to cultivate joy. Recognized by the Dalai Lama as one of the “8 Pillars of Joy”, gratitude has been shown to enhance the capacity to perceive joy in everyday life. Gratitude increases joy, and joy, in turn, increases gratitude in an upward spiral of positive disposition. A 2018 study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology revealed that when the participants practiced gratitude regularly, it became part of their natural disposition. Participants that exhibited greater gratitude also experienced heightened levels of joy.
Jiménez notes that cultivating gratitude— and therefore joy—is not just a matter of responding to positive circumstances. “There is a difference between gratitude for and gratitude in. It’s easy to be grateful for positive windfalls like winning the lottery or receiving a nice gift. But when something challenging happens, such as a loved one receiving a serious medical diagnosis, how can we be grateful in that moment for the gift that lies in the wisdom of that situation?” Viewing challenging events as lessons with the potential for wisdom and healing helps us cultivate a more resilient kind of gratitude.
As Tutu and the Dalai Lama teach, joy is not the absence of struggle but the presence of heart. It lives in the body, grows through connection and deepens through gratitude. To reclaim it, we must soften the grip of perfection, release the myth of constant happiness and allow space for both laughter and tears.
Jiménez reminds us that joy is something to be practiced—not achieved—through movement, mindfulness and a willingness to feel. Gratitude becomes the bridge that turns awareness into aliveness, inviting us to notice what was there all along. When people pause long enough to be present, they discover that joy does not need to be sought. It simply needs to be welcomed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
gustavofrazao from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping
Making the Most of the Human Touch
by Marlaina Donato
There is something special about stepping into the cozy warmth of a coffeehouse, sampling the latest offerings at the bakery or discovering a rare edition at the local bookshop. Our hometowns, like their people, have a unique spirit, and shopping locally during the holiday is a full-sensory delight. “Online shopping is convenient, but nothing beats an in-person interaction and seeing how happy a local business owner gets when you purchase something,” says Jacqueline
De Leeuw, a fine artisan and owner of the thrift store Comfy Komodo, in Newton, New Jersey.
Despite Adobe Analytics reporting that American consumers spent $241.4 billion online during last year’s holidays, CapitalOne’s research shows that 45 percent still prefer in-store shopping. This preference is driven by convenience, easy product comparison and a more enjoyable experience. Local stores offer shorter lines, fewer
crowds, meaningful options and a chance to reduce our carbon footprint. The American Independent Business Alliance states that for every $100 spent at an independent business, $50 or more remains in the local economy, boosting prosperity, jobs and donations to local organizations.
Finding Treasures With Friends
Discovering local treasures provides social nourishment and counteracts our screen-dependent lifestyles. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social connection benefits long-term physical and mental health. “Talking with the folks who grow your food or make your gifts is almost extinct in our world. Farmers markets have revived that,” says Darlene Wolnik, senior project manager for the Farmers Market Coalition, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fulfilling our senses with artisanal breads, seasonal produce freshly harvested from local soil and maple syrup tapped from nearby trees reconnects us with real life.
From hand-poured candles to artful ornaments, small businesses offer unique finds. Shopping can extend beyond purchases to include meeting friends for lunch or enjoying seasonal treats. The holidays are the perfect excuse to indulge in local fair-trade chocolates, regional wines, craft beers or small-batch gourmet coffees. “Nothing is better than meeting with family or friends and seeing where the day takes you, exploring local shops,” muses De Leeuw.
Wolnik agrees, suggesting, “You can make a morning of it and shop the entire town or Main Street before or after your farmers market visit.” She recommends checking if vendors offer holiday crafts. “A lot of farmers knit, weave and do woodworking. Also, many markets use a wooden token system to process card payments. If your market does that, buy tokens for friends, wrapped with a ribbon and a market flyer.”
Keeping It Local Year-Round
After the gifts and festivities, adopting inspiring habits can kickstart a new year. Choosing to shop locally more often positively impacts the environment because small businesses typically source their products regionally, reducing transit emissions.
Knowing the names of local servers, shopkeepers and baristas fosters a vibrant network of community engagement, enriching our everyday lives with meaning and a sense of belonging. “My favorite thing about supporting local shops is really connecting with the owners or the workers—finding out their story, how they started and what brought them here,” adds De Leeuw.
Creating monthly or weekly local shopping rituals can enhance family life or jazz-up date nights. Buying healthier bread at the bakery or herbal soap from a neighborhood artisan are simple ways to sustain the backyard economy while enjoying a slower, more relaxed pace and remaining open to the wonders along the way.
Marlaina Donato is an author, artist and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
December’s Duality
by Rick Miller
December often feels like a month suspended between extremes. The days grow shorter, the light fades earlier, and the window for yearly accomplishments starts to close. For many, this natural dimming becomes a quiet reminder that the big projects and milestones are mostly behind them. Yet in that same darkness lies an invitation—to pause, reflect and reconnect with what matters most.
As winter settles in, the season’s stillness encourages us to take honest stock of our year. Moments of progress in family, faith and community often hold more meaning than any checklist of completed tasks. The shortened daylight becomes a gentle teacher: time is finite, so spend it with intention.
But December is not only a month of reflection; it is also a month of celebration. Around the world, people honor the birth of Jesus Christ—the light Christians believe entered a weary world to offer
hope. That moment in history continues to guide hearts today, especially for those navigating their own seasons of uncertainty. The Christmas story reminds us that even in the longest nights, light can break through.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
— John 1:5
This duality—darkness and light, ending
and beginning—gives December its quiet power. It nudges us to slow down while lifting our eyes toward what’s possible. For anyone hoping to make the most of these shortened days, this month offers a spark to reset priorities and rekindle purpose.
This December, consider:
• Reflecting on the past year and naming what truly mattered.
• Reconnecting with family, faith and community through intentional moments.
• Releasing perfectionism and welcoming the gift of slower days.
• Renewing hope by remembering that light often shines brightest in darkness.
Rick Miller is an author, consultant, golfer and grandfather who follows Christ. Catch up with Rick at Pro356consulting.com or on Substack @rickmiller.
MASTERS OF YOGA & BODYWORK
Bella Sundries
Wellness Studio
Beautiful Things for Body and Soul
For more than two decades, Bella Sundries Wellness Studio has helped clients embrace healing through personalized care for mind, body and spirit. Founded by Tonya Ben Mansour— an LMT, CCHt, Reiki Master, YTT-200 instructor, martial artist, acupuncturist and certified herbalist—the Mobile-based studio offers a wide range of services, including yoga, meditation, massage therapy, reiki, hypnotherapy, customized wellness plans, and Human Design and Gene Keys sessions. It also offers Krav Maga and kickboxing training as a way of personal empowerment and healing.
“Bella Sundries means ‘Beautiful Things,’” Ben Mansour says. “The beautiful thing about what we do is how we help each individual discover their own path to wellness.” Whether clients seek relaxation, recovery from injury or surgery, energetic therapy for PTSD, or guidance in self-care, each treatment is tailored to meet their unique needs.
In addition to bodywork and healing services, the studio features a metaphysical boutique offering handmade candles, oils, lotions and spiritual items, as well as creations from local artists and makers.
Ben Mansour brings more than 27 years of professional experience to her practice. A martial arts instructor with more than three decades of training in Krav Maga and kickboxing, she integrates movement, mindfulness and energy work into her approach.
As a certified clinical and forensic hypnotherapist, she also teaches courses designed to help practitioners expand their skill sets and support clients’ overall well-being.
Through her proprietary Raphael Method, Ben Mansour guides clients in gently releasing trauma and restoring a deeper sense of harmony and inner peace.
“Regular massage and holistic care aren’t just luxuries,” she says. “They’re essential tools for preventative health and for living well.”
Tonya Ben Mansour is the author of An Eightfold Yoga Teaching & Practice Program, available on Amazon.com. Bella Sundries Wellness Studio is located at 3602 Old Shell Rd., Ste. A, Mobile. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9:30 a.m.to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For appointments or more information, call 251-631-0427 or visit BellaSundriesWellness.com. See ad, this page.
Cross Training for Holistic Health
Advantages of a Well-Rounded Exercise Routine
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans advises adults to engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, along with muscle-strengthening activities for major muscle groups at least twice a week.
Cross training is a powerful approach that combines aerobic and strength training into one dynamic routine, helping individuals reach their physical fitness goals more efficiently. According to Dawn Coleman, an American Council on Exercise-certified personal trainer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, “Cross training benefits greatly outweigh fo-
cusing on one particular type of training. By creating multiple stimuli for the body, you allow it to adapt quickly to input, prevent injuries and allow the body to be prepared for the unknown scenario.”
Benefits of Diversified Workouts
For everyone, regardless of age or ability, integrating aerobic or cardiovascular exercise with resistance or strength training offers many health benefits, including reduced stress, better sleep, improved self-esteem, enhanced immune function and heart health, as well as beneficial bone mass and body weight. Despite these advantages, many may be hesitant to start cross training due to uncertainty about where to begin.
For example, a regular jogger might not know which strength exercises to pair with their running routine, while gym-goers lifting weights may be reluctant to add cardio. Whether someone is a competitive runner aiming to prevent injury and build strength or a non-athlete looking to optimize health as they age, combining both strength and cardiovascular training is a fun and effective choice.
“I see a lot of overtraining-related injuries when athletes fail to diversify from their sport,” says Tessa Kothe, a practitioner in Colorado Springs with a Ph.D. in physical therapy. “Clients who implement cross training tend to end up more robust, healthier and recover from their injuries much faster than those who do not diversify their training.”
Building Strength and Endurance
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) Model provides four training phases, depending on the abilities and goals of an individual. Beginners, for example, ease into exercises that enhance postural stability, core activation and static balance with exercises such as planks, single-leg stands with core contraction and a heel-to-toe walk with a three-second pause after each step, respectively. Additional exercises are gradually introduced to enhance a person’s health and function, with a focus on five primary movements:
1. Bending and lifting (squats)
2. Single-leg movement (lunges)
3. Pushing (bench press, push-ups and triceps extensions)
4. Pulling (pull-ups, one-arm rows and bicep curls)
5. Spinal rotation (lying knee-to-chest twists and planks with side-to-side twists)
Once these more advanced exercises can be performed safely in the correct form, then weight or resistance is added. The final phase of the ACE IFT Model involves performance training with functional movements that incorporate load, movement and speed to boost agility, quickness and power.
Cross training combines strength and cardiorespiratory benefits into a single workout by alternating between strength-based and aerobic activities, engaging multiple systems in the body. It appeals to those that value a holistic wellness approach due to its adaptability. Sessions can be tailored to individual needs, energy levels, wellness goals and time constraints. By choosing enjoyable and convenient exercises, we can avoid monotony and increase the likelihood of making them a regular part of life.
A cross training day might include a hike with weighted walking poles or a 15-minute yoga flow followed by a workout with light resistance bands. Another example is combining 10 to 20 minutes of rowing or stair climbing with 20 minutes of core work, squats and lunges.
During aerobic activities like walking, running, biking or swimming, ACE recommends beginning with 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise at a pace that allows easy conversation, then gradually adding longer workouts, intervals, increased speed or higher intensity.
For newcomers to cross training, begin with two sessions per week, alternating 15 minutes of strength training with 15 to 20 minutes of cardio or mobility work. This can be gradually increased to meet the recommended weekly physical activity guidelines.
Tips for Success
• Listen to the body. Each day is different. Honor energy levels and prioritize form and safety over intensity.
• Fuel and recover well. Whole foods, hydration and ample sleep are essential for muscle repair and sustained energy.
• Keep it simple. Basic tools like a yoga mat, jump rope or pair of dumbbells are often all that is needed to get started.
• Seek community. Group classes, virtual platforms or one-on-one guidance can provide structure, proper form instruction and encouragement.
Cross training is more than just a workout plan; it is a practice of self-care, strength and sustainability. For those embracing holistic living, this style of movement aligns well with long-term wellness goals. It is about cultivating a resilient, vibrant body and mind that can carry us through the decades with grace.
Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.
Fairhope, AL 36532
Walt Bolton Owner
Bon Appétit!
A directory of local restaurants, eateries and markets
Where Neighbors Become Family
The Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market in Foley has become far more than a place to purchase local goods—it’s grown into a community all its own.
Known as CAFFM to its regulars, the market has been open for 10 years and has gained recognition well beyond county lines. It was voted one of USA Today’s 10 Best Farmers Markets nationwide in 2021 and 2022, and was named first runner-up in the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards, beating out major markets in cities like Seattle and Dallas.
While awards shine a spotlight, it’s the people who keep CAFFM thriving. Vendors offer everything from seasonal produce and fresh-caught seafood to baked goods and artisan-made treasures. Though their products differ, they share a genuine welcoming spirit.
Market shoppers have made CAFFM a weekly destination, returning to vendors who have quickly become friends. It’s common to hear folks asking after family as they complete their purchases.
“We want everyone to know they are welcome here,” says Market Manager Alescia Forland. “Yes, we sell local food to our neighbors, but for us it’s more about bringing everyone together and strengthening our community ties.”
Shoppers also know their purchases meet the highest standards. CAFFM is an Alabama Agriculture & Industries Farmers Market Authority Certified Farmers Market, meaning it follows strict rules, including capping non-food vendors at 30 percent and requiring food vendors to meet specific guidelines.
CAFFM welcomes newcomers to join the community. Located at 781 Farmers Market Lane in Foley, they are open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday year-round.
BB'S HEALTH FOODS
Personalized guidance through living right for your blood type. 8154 Hwy. 59, Ste. 205, Foley, AL BBsHealthFoods.com
CHICKPEAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL
Amazingly delicious home cooking options and more for the entire family! 850 Blackburn Dr., Mobile, AL 251-264-2461
COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET
Experience the bounty of Baldwin County. 781 Farmers Market Ln., Foley, AL CoastalAlabamaMarket.com
CROOKED CARROT FARMS
Delivering to Mobile & Baldwin Counties, the purest organically grown microgreens and other superfoods. Fresh, local and delivered to your doorstep. 251-656-4117 • Crooked-Carrot.com
FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS
Homegrown in the South since 1975. 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Fairhope, AL • 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
FAIRHOPE JUICE COMPANY
Nourish the body. Fuel the soul. Battles Wharf Market 18327 Scenic Hwy. 98, Fairhope, AL
GRAZE CRAZE CHARCUTERIE
Artful Displays, Beautiful Boards & Boxes, Stress-Free & Delivered to your door! 2104 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 251-408-9551 • GrazeCraze.com
HEALTH HUT
Experience the Difference. 40+ years earning your trust. 680 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL 6845 Hwy 90, Ste. 108, Daphne, AL Mobile 251-633-0485 • Daphne 251-621-1865 HealthHutAL.com
MCKENZIE FARM
Family-owned market supplying fresh produce and more to our community. 17558 A Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL McKenzieFarmMarket.com
OHANA POKE
Poke combines ingredients of a delicious sushi roll into a quick meal. 561 Fairhope Ave. #102, Fairhope, AL OPFairhope.com
OX KITCHEN
Made with fresh ingredients in-house daily, approachable, not intimidating. 365 S. Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL TheOxKitchen.com
Offering a healthy dining experience in a cozy, casual environment. 320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
SUNFLOWER CAFÉ MOBILE
Loved for its healthy, delicious offerings, featuring daily specials. 3055A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952 • Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
THE HAPPY OLIVE
Be happy, eat healthy, live well. Taste and experience culinary delight! 314 De La Mare Ave., Fairhope, AL HappyOlive4.com
TIKI FOOD LAB & SUIS GENERIS RESTAURANT
Exotic food experiences including fermentation processes, healthy living classes, farm tours and private parties Pearlington, MS • 3219 Burgundy St., NOLA 504-338-2986 • TikiFoodLab.com
VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS
2024 Nappie Best Health Food Store. 3055A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
WILD MAGNOLIA KOMBUCHA
Brewed with love, laughter and a dash of Southern sarcasm. Info@WildMagnoliaLife.com 251-463-6233 • WildMagnoliaLife.com
The Magic of Gourmet Salts
From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink
by Maya Whitman
Specialty salts can transform everyday foods. To elevate the experience, add bold chili salt to a hearty winter stew, smoked salt to popcorn or ruby-colored wine salt to chocolate truffles. Flavored finishing salts surprise the tastebuds in ordinary dishes like oatmeal, desserts or hot cocoa. Used mindfully, gourmet salt reduces the need for excessive sodium and invites us to savor the extraordinary.
“I think salt is amazing and brings out the best in food—all those hidden flavors,” says Craig Cormack, a gourmet salt chef in Cape Town, South Africa. His career as a food artisan advanced in 2009 when he embraced specialty salts. “My personal collection is sitting at 232 naturally occurring salts from around the world,”
adds Cormack, who favors unrefined regional varieties, but also enjoys bold options such as smoked Danish Viking salt for its ancient, bonfire-infused qualities.
Salts vary in texture, flavor and nuance based on their source and harvesting techniques, such as solar evaporation or hand-raking. Many contain trace minerals, adding depth to dishes, and when consumed in moderation, sea salt may benefit the body compared to refined salt.
Salt’s Good Side
Salt has a bad reputation for causing high blood pressure and other health conditions, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that more than 70 percent of dietary sodium comes from prepared and
packaged foods, not from salt added at home. The FDA daily value for sodium is less than 2,300 milligrams per day, and using unrefined salts can be a healthier alternative to common table salt, which is demineralized and processed with anti-clumping agents. Celtic gray salt and other mineral-rich varieties contain naturally occurring, trace heavy metals, but also minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium, which can help prevent the body from absorbing harmful metals like lead.
“We all need salt in moderation to live. The best way to ingest salt is to season your own food. Processed food has too much salt, and you can’t control your intake. Naturally made, mineral-rich salt is the best choice,” affirms Nancy Bruns, a seventh-generation
Stefan Botezatu's
salt maker at J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works, in Malden, West Virginia. She and her family produce rare, small-batch finishing salts harvested from the ancient Iapetus Ocean beneath the Appalachian Mountains.
Spanning the Salt Spectrum
Whether sourced from evaporated seawater (sea salt) or underground salt mines (rock salt), there is much to choose from. Sea salt comes in various colors, coarseness and complex flavors. Highly prized flake salt—fleur de sel from coastal France—is hand-harvested from evaporation ponds with clay bottoms and, with its delicate, paper-thin crystals, offers delicious nuances as a finishing salt. Celtic gray salt, sourced deeper within evaporation ponds, contains more moisture and minerals.
Himalayan pink salt, mined from salt beds formed from ancient seas approximately 600 million years ago, contains more than 80 minerals and has a rosy color due to the presence of iron oxide and magnesium. Black volcanic rock salt, also known as Himalayan black salt or kala namak, has a pungent, sulfuric quality that diminishes with heat during cooking and imparts an egg-like aroma and taste that can be useful in vegan recipes. The large, coarse grains of kosher salt traditionally used in Hebrew cuisine give food a robust, briny quality and satisfying texture.
Salt can be infused with herbs, spices, fruits and smoke from various woods to create a multitude of flavor qualities and moods. Bruns highlights her ramp-infused salt, which is combined with wild onions gathered during the Appalachian springtime. Charred oak from old bourbon barrels makes their smoked salt a favorite for grills and even chocolate desserts. Cormack spotlights the fine indulgence of Tartuflanghe brand truffle salt from Italy for an unforgettable mushroom risotto.
Bruns is grateful for the timeless spirit of salt. “I come to work on the same land where my ancestors made salt for over 150 years. I feel their presence, as if they are watching over my shoulder. That legacy and sense of stewardship is present every time I sprinkle salt on my food.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Gluten-free and Snack Options: Yummy Keto Bars, Nuts, Berries,...
Pet food & Supplements:
Dr. Marty’s, Canine Caviar, Solid Gold,...
Dr. Mary Sabal has offered preventive care options for over 30 years
•
SPINAL
DECOMPRESSION!
FLAVOR-INFUSED SALT
1 tsp dried herbs, spices or citrus zest of choice ¼ cup kosher salt, coarse sea salt or coarse Himalayan pink salt
Basic Infusion Instructions
In a bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, spices or citrus zest for every ¼ cup of kosher salt, coarse sea salt or coarse Himalayan pink salt. Stir thoroughly and store the mixture in a sealed, dry, airtight jar. For optimal results, let the flavored salt sit in the closed jar for a few hours before use.
Suggested Combinations and Uses
Create a delicious finishing salt for grilled shrimp, vegan tacos or black bean soup by combining 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest, ½ of a dried hot chili pepper and ¼ cup kosher salt. Sprinkle to taste just before serving.
Enhance fresh blueberries, melon, warm oatmeal or freshly baked brownies with a unique flavor by crushing 1 teaspoon of organic lavender buds in a mortar and pestle until the flowers are bruised and fragrant, then combining them with ¼ cup coarse Himalayan pink salt. Sprinkle to taste immediately before serving.
Make a wonderful cooking salt for roasted vegetables by mixing 1 teaspoon dried rosemary with ¼ cup Celtic gray sea salt. Sprinkle to taste before baking in the oven.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
HEARTY VEGETABLE FRITTATA
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 large yellow onion, sliced
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
¼ tsp heirloom salt, divided
4 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
5 grinds from black pepper mill
3 dashes of jalapeño hot sauce
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until lightly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Take the onions out of the pan and set them aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, along with the zucchini, yellow squash and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until cooked through and tender. Add the garlic, thyme leaves and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Stir and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
Remove the pan from the heat. Return the onions to the pan and mix well. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, remaining salt, pepper and hot sauce. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and sprinkle feta cheese on top.
Place the pan on the center rack of the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until just set in the center.
Take the pan out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Cut into quarters and serve.
Recipe courtesy of J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works.
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The Heart Work of Kin-Keeping
Transforming Family Responsibilities Into a Shared Experience
by Hannah Tytus
The holidays can be a celebration of joy and family time, but for many, they are also a marathon of invisible labor. Someone has to hold it all together, planning meals, wrapping gifts, coordinating visits and meeting everyone’s expectations. Health psychologist Kari Leibowitz, author of How to Winter, notes, “The holidays are when we get wrapped up in shoulds—I should do this, or I’ve always done it this way. But things feel joyful only when the person carrying the load feels joyful, too.” That person managing everything amid the chaos is the family kin-keeper.
In 1985, sociologist Carolyn Rosenthal coined the term “kin-keeping” to describe the often-invisible work of maintaining family bonds: remembering birthdays, organizing holidays, coordinating visits and keeping everyone connected. A kin-keeper serves as the connective tissue across generations.
Kin-keeping work is rarely assigned; it is quietly assumed across families. The burden falls disproportionately on women, often passing from mother to daughter. Rosenthal’s concept builds on a long history of women’s unpaid labor in the home. Across cultures, someone—usually a woman—has been expected to weave the social fabric, whether through cooking, hosting or mediating family ties. These roles often arose out of necessity but hardened into expectations. This important work demands time, intention and skill. It intensifies during the holidays when meals must be coordinated, gifts tracked and gatherings orchestrated. Even when roles are unspoken, someone absorbs the relational labor, becoming the family magic-maker.
Kin-keeping is critical for family cohesion. 2023 research published in Sex Roles shows that having a dedicated kin-keeper strengthens intergenerational bonds, encourages rituals and sustains relationships over time. Yet this labor is often unseen, underappreciated and unevenly distributed. Mothers, stepmothers and other female relatives frequently inherit the role, even in blended or post-divorce families. Step-relatives often find themselves bridging fractured family
Nicole
Michalou from Pexels/CanvaPro
ties, carrying emotional work they never chose—work that can lead to stress, burnout and resentment. Kin-keepers can feel trapped by societal expectations to do it right, even when it hurts.
Sharing Family Responsibilities
Reimagining kin work begins by naming it. Recognizing the role and seeing it clearly allows the labor to be set down or shared when it feels heavy or disempowering. To make healthy changes, burdened kin-keepers can ask themselves how they might act from a place of loving intention rather than obligation.
Making invisible labor visible is another key step. Families can talk openly about who does what and acknowledge that sustaining a family is more than cooking meals or paying bills. It is emotional and relational work. Sharing responsibilities can lighten the load; one person can plan the meal, another take on decorations and a third handle travel logistics. Intentionally involving men and children in tasks helps create a more equitable distribution of labor.
Creating New Traditions
Joy can be reclaimed by letting go of rituals that no longer serve the family, creating new traditions rooted in current realities and needs, and inviting others to co-create meaningful moments. Releasing the need for perfection will also offer relief from stringent responsibilities and create space for simple pleasures and joy. “When people look back on holidays, they rarely remember a perfectly cooked chicken or flawless table setting,” says Leibowitz. “They remember the wreath falling and everyone laughing together. The small, imperfect moments are what last.”
Kin-keeping is powerful because it holds families together. Those that take on this role can be proud of the heart work they do because it is precious. Yet this labor should not come at the cost of one person’s well-being. This season, we can ask what we want to carry and what we can set down. Healing begins by recognizing what was inherited and consciously choosing what to pass on. The magic of the holidays comes alive when care is rooted in fulfillment and agency rather than obligation. Kin-keeping is an act of love—but love does not have to mean doing it all alone.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Your Path to Optimal Health Starts at BB’s!
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bbshealthfoods.com
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Unwrapping the Past
Helping Kids Connect With Their Family Heritage
by Christina Connors
December unites families in ways few other times can, creating opportunities for children to explore their origins. Heritage is not just something to preserve under glass; it is alive, evolving and ready for kids to add their own chapter. This holiday season invites daughters and sons not only to observe family traditions, but to become joyful stewards of them. Through storytelling, cooking, crafting or creating TikTok-style recipe reels, children can connect with their roots in meaningful, playful and personal ways.
Lessons From Former Generations
Research from Emory University’s Family Narratives Lab, published in Psychotherapy in 2008, reveals that children that are familiar with their family history have better self-esteem, higher social competence, quality friendships, reduced anxiety and stress, and fewer behavioral problems. The study also highlights that families discussing challenging events in emotionally open ways help children cope better during difficult times.
“It is extremely grounding for children to feel connected to their past and family history and elders,” explains Denise Olivera Schira, a wellness educator and retired assistant superintendent for the New York City Department of Education. “It gives them a sense of stability in the world and connection to something much bigger than themselves. It validates their identity and culture,
provides context and relevance in their lives, and offers a purposeful and meaningful understanding of who they are and from where they come.”
Fun Ways To Promote Family Traditions
“Making family and cultural norms and discussions a part of everyday life experiences and interactions is an especially meaningful manner in which to engage children and elders seamlessly,” Schira explains, adding that opportunities for connection and sharing abound through storytelling, photos, craft projects, games and other engaging exchanges. Mealtime, especially during holidays, is Schira’s favorite time for worthwhile conversation, when elders share stories with
humor while children listen intently and ask questions. These gatherings create spaces where family history flows organically, without pressure or formality.
Keep It Simple
“What I love about the way my family heritage and tradition was celebrated was its simplicity and connection to nature,” shares Christina Heike, MS, MEd, a certified clinical trauma specialist and international educator with a background in Ayurveda and naturopathic medicine. “Many projects don’t happen because they seem too time-consuming and complicated to fit into our busy lives. For our children, it’s important to do hands-on activities that show direct results to balance the high usage of technology in many other areas of their lives.”
Heike recalls her grandmother’s simple tradition of culturing milk on the windowsill in glass cups. “Make memories with simple things,” she advises. Her childhood included painting real eggs for Easter (blown empty to save the contents for scrambled eggs), picking berries straight from bushes, pressing autumn leaves for art projects and singing songs together on lantern walks after sunset.
Creating the Family Tapestry
Everyday moments can become memorymaking traditions through intention and presence. Schira and Heike offer some suggestions to kickstart the family’s exploration of their heritage and create new traditions and memories:
• Initiate conversations at family mealtimes.
• Encourage elders to share stories with humor and relevant comparisons to present times.
• Create space for children to ask questions that spark their interest.
• Create a decorative plate adorned with natural finds from walks.
• Learn seasonal songs together.
To involve younger children in the conversation, prompt elder family members with simple questions such as:
• What was your favorite game to play when you were my age?
• What food did you love eating on holidays?
• Can you teach me a song or poem you learned as a kid?
• What’s something funny that happened during the holidays when you were a kid?
• If you could save only one recipe from your family, what would it be?
Some children love crafting, while others prefer making videos or digital slide shows. Some are naturally chatty; others need quieter ways to participate. “Depending on a child’s age, vary activities and include them as much as possible in the decision-making process,” Heike advises. The goal is to invite kids to participate on their terms, making heritage education a celebration of joy and identity rather than obligation.
As families gather around holiday tables with familiar dishes and new experiments alike, remember that heritage isn’t a history lesson; it is a living conversation between past and present. Every question, every story and every recipe becomes a thread in the family’s tapestry. Let the children see that they do not just inherit traditions; they also have the power to shape them.
Christina Connors is a writer, keynote singer and head of music and SEL integration for the Kind Mind Education Program. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
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Boosting Canine Health
Holistic Immune-System Strategies
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Adog’s immune system is the first line of defense against infection and disease, relying on nutrition, rest and emotional balance for optimal protection. Prolonged stress and consistently poor nutrition can gradually weaken this vital network, but holistic care provides gentle, effective strategies to restore and safeguard immune function, contributing to lasting wellness and vitality.
A Solid Nutritional Foundation
Immune resilience begins in the gut, where most immune cells are located. A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science revealed that supplementing canine diets with chitooligosaccharides (COS), bioactive compounds derived from chitin in crustacean shells and fungi, enhanced immune responses and antioxidant enzyme activity by promoting a healthier gut microbiome. In addition to these functional supplements, nutrient-dense foods, particularly fresh leafy greens and colorful vegetables such as carrots, beets and peppers, also nourish beneficial gut bacteria and provide antioxidants that combat inflammation. Each color of the vegetable rainbow contributes unique phytonutrients that protect cells and bolster a dog’s innate defenses.
While many vegetables are beneficial, pet parents should not give dogs onions, garlic, leeks, scallions and chives, as they are toxic to dogs. Likewise, dogs should not eat tomatoes, corn on the cob and
vegetables that can cause blockages such as radishes and the pits from avocados and fruits. Certain fruits, such as cherries, grapes and raisins, are also toxic to dogs.
Healthy fats are equally indispensable because they form the structural basis of cell membranes, ensuring optimal cellular function and resistance to pathogens. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from sources like fish oil, boneless sardines or ground flaxseed in moderation nourish the skin, reduce inflammation and support immune regulation. Cholesterol plays a crucial role in maintaining cell integrity and hormone equilibrium. Good cholesterol sources for dogs include eggs, organ meats, fish and lean meats fed in moderation. These nutrients promote strong, adaptable cells and a balanced microbiome—the cornerstone of enduring health.
A comprehensive whole-food diet centered around these principles offers greater benefits than isolated supplements. The synergistic effects of nutrients found in fresh foods support the immune system in a natural, sustainable manner, helping dogs heal, adapt and thrive.
The Power of Mushrooms
Nature provides potent tools to further enhance immune balance. Medicinal mushrooms have long been recognized for their immunomodulating properties, helping to strengthen, balance and regulate a dog’s natural defense mechanisms. Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, lion’s mane, turkey tail and chaga are safe and beneficial when used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Unidentified and wild mushrooms, including Amanita and Galerina species, should not be given to dogs as they may be toxic.
Research on shiitake mushrooms indicates that they contain beneficial bioactive compounds, including beta glucans (β-glucans), eritadenine and other polysaccharides, which can augment immune activity, support liver function and improve antioxidant capacity in humans.
A 2024 study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that four weeks of shiitake mushroom powder supplementation in healthy dogs significantly increased antioxidant activity, while reducing cholesterol.
These findings suggest that shiitake mushrooms may help enhance cellular defense and immune resilience in dogs. Because of their immune-stimulating properties, shiitakes should be given only under veterinary supervision to dogs with immune-mediated diseases or those undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatments.
Similarly, reishi mushrooms have been studied in animals for their immune-supportive and protective effects. Their polysaccharide and triterpenoid constituents have been demonstrated to stimulate pathogen-killing white blood cells such as macrophages and T-lymphocytes, leading to improved immune surveillance and resistance against abnormal cell growth. Rodent studies have shown that reishi extracts can significantly inhibit tumor development, reduce inflammation and enhance overall immune function without adverse effects.
A pivotal factor in these effects is the presence of β-glucans—complex polysaccharides that function as biological response modifiers, training the immune system to respond appropriately to challenges without overstimulation. “The beta glucans help to stabilize your immune system,” explains Rob Silver, a pioneering holistic and integrative veterinarian in Boulder, Colorado, recognized for his expertise in veterinary herbal medicine and medicinal mushrooms. He notes that these compounds can “re-educate” immune cells, enabling them to distinguish between genuine threats and harmless triggers such as pollen, food or dust. In this way, β-glucans promote a balanced, resilient immune response that supports both health and tolerance.
Establishing Balance for Lifelong Wellness
Holistic canine care goes beyond food and supplements, encompassing emotional well-being and preventive measures. Because chronic stress can weaken immunity, maintaining a calm, enriching environment is essential. Regular exercise, mental stimulation and comforting companionship promote equilibrium and confidence. Gentle detoxification practic-
es such as supporting liver function with milk thistle or kidney health with dandelion root further assist the body’s natural cleansing processes.
Regular checkups are pivotal in preserving a dog’s health, enabling veterinarians to detect emerging issues early. Collaborating with a holistic practitioner provides a comprehensive approach that integrates natural therapies with conventional medicine.
Holistically strengthening a dog’s immune
system entails nurturing the entire being— body, mind and spirit. With a foundation of whole-food nutrition, balanced fats, supportive herbs and mindful care, dogs can enjoy vibrant health and lasting vitality. This integrated approach not only fortifies the immune system, but also cultivates a life of balance, joy and resilience.
Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to local resources for natural health and green living. To find out how you can be included in this directory, email MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com or call 251-990-9552.
Acupuncture
BISHOP PHYSICAL THERAPY
Dr. Daniel Bishop, DPT, SMT, CIDN, APBC Patrick Miller, LAc 251-626-7778 • BishopPhysicalTherapy.com Office@BishopPhysicalTherapy.com
Offering 25 years of combined experience in successfully treating a variety of conditions, including chronic back and neck pain, headaches and tinnitus. See ad, page 27
THE HEALING POINT ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS, LLC
Kelly Kiviko, LAc 17218 Doc Lizana Rd., Gulfport MS KivikoAcupuncture.com
Discover vibrant, radiant skin with holistic microneedling and cosmetic facial acupuncture. Experience the power of facial cupping, gua sha and acupuncture to improve. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 17
Arts & Festivals
FAIRHOPE FILM FESTIVAL
122 Fairhope Ave., Ste. 1, Fairhope, AL 251-725-2040 FairhopeFilmFestival.org
The Fairhope Film Festival brings exceptional films to the big screens of the picturesque town of Fairhope.
Our Monthly Film Series, held January through May, features two screenings each month in the Ben Gall Theater inside the Festival office. The 14th annual Fairhope Film Festival, taking place November 12–15, 2026, will welcome film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and filmmakers for four days of screenings, conversations, and special events. Registration and ticket information can be found on our website.
Beauty
BALDWIN GYN & AESTHETICS
1506 N. McKenzie, Ste. 104, Foley, AL 251-424-1100. BaldwinGYN.com
For over thirty years Dr. Judy Corbett and staff at Baldwin GYN & Aesthetics have served the Gulf Coast community to bring innovative, state of the art technology and services to enhance wellness and beauty. Check us out online or visit our wellness studio. We look forward to personalizing your wellness journey. See ad, page 7.
TMAC’S HAIR STUDIO
Old Government, Mobile: 251-607-6666 2101 Hwy. 98, Daphne: 251-725-4334
TMACsHairStudio.com
A relaxing salon environment that is free of harmful chemicals, impurities and fragrance. Offering customized hair services and regenerative treatments with 100% vegan organic products and essential oils. Ask about following the lunar calendar for effective hair treatments. See ad, page 7
Brain Therapy
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER
J. Douglas Brown, DC, DACNB, IFMCP Board Certified Neurology/ Functional Medicine
Specializing in TMS and Brain Disorder 112 W. Section Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
Our unique approach is non-invasive and merges deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (DTMS), brain pathway rehabilitation, and metabolic enhancement through functional medicine, to address brain disorders like anxiety, memory or behavior issues and dementia. Treatment plans are customized to meet the individual needs of patients. See ad, page 5
Breast Screening
THERMOGRAPHY
ADVANTAGE
Carolyn Olson, Certified Thermographer Mobile & Foley • 251-623-2225
ThermographyAdvantage.com
FDA registered thermography offers breast/fullbody screenings that are non-invasive and radiation-free, without compression or bodily contact. Valuable for detecting early-stage breast disease and more. Also offering Electro-Lymphatic Therapy. See ad, page 23
CBD Health & Wellness
FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS
280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 25
Christian Counseling
PURPOSE WITHOUT LIMITS
Rev. Dr. Dallas Teague Snider, Christian Counselor and Healer PurposeWithoutLimits.com Dallas@DallasTeague.com
You have a Unique Soul Expression. Unlock your limiting beliefs and get unstuck from patterns that no longer serve you. As an intuitive vessel for the Holy Spirit, Dallas offers inspirational messages, Christian counseling, healing prayer and Agape Healing Sessions.
Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth. —Muhammad Ali
Community Teaching Farm
HOPE COMMUNITY
Corner of Twin Beech Rd. & S. Section St., Fairhope HopeCommunity23@gmail.com Info@HopeCommunityAL.org
Hope Community envisions a thriving and interconnected community where all individuals have access to locally sourced healthy foods, employment opportunities, and cultural enrichment through a teaching farm, teaching kitchen, and community center. Learn more at HopeCommunityAL.org.
Dementia Help
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC
J. Douglas Brown, DC, DACNB, IFMCP Board Certified Neurology/ Functional Medicine
Specializing in TMS and Brain Disorder 112 W. Section Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
Drugs are not the only answer. Our unique approach is non-invasive and has helped dementia patients that originally scored poorly on cognitive assessments restore to normal scoring on the same assessment.
See ad, page 5
Depression Relief
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC
J. Douglas Brown, DC, DACNB, IFMCP Board Certified Neurology/ Functional Medicine
Specializing in TMS and Brain Disorder 112 W. Section Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
We can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression. Our treatments often deliver improvement when nothing else has worked. 70% of our depression patients see symptoms reduced by at least 50%.
See ad, page 5
Detox Spa
HYDRO ZEN AT PEAK ALKALINITY
217-B Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL
251-270-7200
PeakAlkalinity.com
Offering cleansing far infrared sauna sessions followed by a hydrating collagen shower. Plus alkaline water and alkaline water systems, ionic foot detox, Himalayan salt therapy and revitalizing oxygen bar. Ask about package specials. See ad, page 16
Electromagnetic Therapy
ENRG WELLNESS
620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200, Foley, AL 251-943-9355 • enrGWellness.com
RIFE therapy uses targeted electromagnetic waves to promote healing, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and enhance immunity, addressing symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue and inflammation. Receive a complimentary consultation to determine eligibility and learn more about our introductory offer. See ad, page 4
Essential Oils
THE HEALTH HUT
680 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL 6845 Hwy. 90 Ste. 108 Daphne, AL Mobile 251-633-0485
Daphne 251-621-1865 HealthHutAL.com
Locally owned and operated health food store for over 40 years! “Experience the Difference” at both of our locations, Mobile and Daphne. We have knowledgeable staff who are here to help and will treat you like family. See ad, back cover.
Farmers Market
MCKENZIE FARMS
17558A S. Greeno Rd. S., Fairhope, AL 251-278-4669 • MckenzieFarmMarket.com
Locally grown, fresh from the farm. For more than 50 years our mission has been to provide the Fairhope community as well as our distributors with fresh produce direct from our family farm. See Healthy Eats listing, page 21
Food & Nutrition
A BETTER WAY
HEALTH FOOD STORE
Dr. Mary Sabal, DC, RN 7857 Hwy. 59, Foley, AL 251-955-5322 • ABetterWayHealth.net
Complete health food store with full-service human and pet products (alkaline pet food), vitamins, supplements and nutritious snacks. Additional health and wellness services include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, hair tissue mineral analysis and affordable non-invasive stem cell therapy. Call for an appointment. See ad, page 24
BB’S HEALTH FOOD STORE
8154 Hwy. 59, Ste. 205, Foley, AL 251-923-5700 • BBsHealthFoods.com
We offer you individualized support to help you reach your optimal health goals, from immune support to weight loss. We carry a variety of quality supplements, herbs, grains, pet products, household goods, beauty aids, oils, tinctures, grocery items and more. Come experience the difference at BB's. See ad, page 27
FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ
280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644 • Café: 251-929-0055
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 25
THE HEALTH HUT
680 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL 6845 Hwy. 90, Ste. 108, Daphne, AL Mobile 251-633-0485 • Daphne 251-621-1865
HealthHutAL.com
Locally owned and operated health food store for over 40 years!
“Experience the Difference” at both of our locations, Mobile and Daphne. We have knowledgeable staff who are here to help and will treat you like family. See ad, back cover.
PRESS & CO.
Organic, cold-pressed juicery and eatery 711 Belrose Ave., Daphne, AL 251-314-0778 • PressNCo.com
Accessible, delicious and nutritious options for people who want to make healthier choices. Committed to serving a wide range of healthy food options, including plant-based, gluten-free and low-sugar. Open 7 days a week 7am to 2:30pm. Breakfast, lunch, smoothies, coffee, tea, juice. Come in or order online. See Healthy Eats guide or see ad, page 21
VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II
3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL
251-479-3952
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 4
Functional Medicine
GOOD LIFE HEALTH COACHING
Board Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach
Attention health-conscious men and women struggling to prioritize things that will prolong your life—sleep, healthy meals, exercise routine, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I offer guidance, tools and accountability to ensure success. See ad, page 4
HILLSTAR HEALTH
Tara Miller, Functional Medicine
Nurse Practitioner
28720 Hwy. 98, Ste. 1, Daphne, AL 251-241-4346 • HillstarHealthAL.com
Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner Tara McLellan addresses the root cause of disease with integrative medicine— a blend of traditional western medicine and science-based functional medicine. Ask about our custom weight loss program. See ad, page 15
Healing Retreats
PURPOSE WITHOUT LIMITS
Rev. Dr. Dallas Teague Snider PurposeWithoutLimits.com Dallas@DallasTeague.com
Awaken the Spirit Within retreats to restore your soul through sacred ceremonies: healing body, mind and Spirit. Group sizes are limited to allow an intimate personal experience for those who attend. Your best life awaits. Reserve your spot today.
Health & Wellness Performance
BB’S HEALTH FOOD STORE
8154 Hwy. 59, Ste. 205, Foley, AL 251-923-5700 • BBsHealthFoods.com
We offer you individualized support to help you reach your optimal health goals, from immune support to weight loss. We carry a variety of quality supplements, herbs, grains, pet products, household goods, beauty aids, oils, tinctures, grocery items and more. Come experience the difference at BB’s. See ad, page 27
Aprille Williams is a brand consultant for multiple wellness brands. Shop natural, organic foods, vitamins and supplements anytime, anywhere. Enjoy a wide variety of trusted brands— protein drinks, bars, meal replacements, electrolytes, super greens, even skin care—available 24/7 to support energy, balance and healthy living. To purchase: Linktr.ee/awaffiliates_106109
GOOD LIFE HEALTH COACHING
Board Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach
Attention health-conscious men and women struggling to prioritize things that will prolong your life—sleep, healthy meals, exercise routine, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I offer guidance, tools and accountability to ensure success. See ad, page 4
HYDRO ZEN AT PEAK ALKALINITY
217-B Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 251-270-7200
PeakAlkalinity.com
Offering cleansing far infrared sauna sessions followed by a hydrating collagen shower. Plus alkaline water and alkaline water systems, ionic foot detox, Himalayan salt therapy and revitalizing oxygen bar. Ask about package specials. See ad, page 16
Infrared light therapy offers many stand-alone health benefits and pairs well with our services at Hillstar Health. Infrared sauna therapy is beneficial for natural healing and illness prevention because of its ability to penetrate human tissue resulting in a deep, detoxifying sweat. It is known to assist with sleep, detoxification, immunity, heart health, muscle recovery, weight management, anti-aging and relaxation. See ad, page 15
Iridology
IRIDOLOGY ACADEMY
Betty S. O’Brian, ND, CII, MS 228-257-1946
DrBettySueOBrian@gmail.com IridologyAcademy.org
Betty O’Brian, current IIPA Instructor of the Year and Past President of the International Iridology Practitioners Association, offers online training, books, in-person analysis, charts, eye scopes and mentoring for IIPA Certification to Iridologists around the globe. Location doesn’t matter. Zoom and Facetime available. See ad, page 29
Lymphatic Drainage
THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE
VINTAGE ROOTS
LYMPHATIC THERAPY
Amber Crouse, BC-CLTP-HHP
VintageRootsLT@gmail.com 251-949-2893
VintageRootsLymphaticTherapy.com
ELECTRO-ASSISTED
LYMPHATIC THERAPY is a non-invasive treatment designed to stimulate the proper flow and drainage of lymphatic fluid, enhancing immune function at a cellular level. By promoting optimal circulation and drainage of lymphatic fluid through frequencies that align with the body’s natural rhythms, it helps to decongest and detoxify, restoring balance. See ad, page 8
Massage Therapy
JUBILEE HEALING ARTS
Jennifer (Adams) Killgo, LMT #3263 28170 N. Main St., Ste. C, Daphne, AL 251-616-4201 • JubileeHealingArts.com
Intuitive integrative massage techniques are used to facilitate the body into a state of healing without the “no pain no gain” mentality. Over 15 years’ experience in the bodywork and natural wellness field. See ad, page 7
Naturopath
PATHWAY HEALTH
More than 35 years’ experience with anxiety, PTSD, weight loss, smoking cessation, removing blockages, regression, behavior modification, energy healing and stream-lining, pain management.
There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.
—Bernard Meltzer
Carolyn Olson, Certified Lymphatic Therapist Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225 ThermographyAdvantage.com
Electro-Lymphatic
Therapy is noninva sive, painless and calming. Like a light touch massage, the certified lymphatic therapist uses two small handheld wands that are lightly moved across the body in a direction that correlates to the body’s lymphatic flow. The proper flow of lymphatic fluid can help with conditions such as inflammation, colds/flu, sinus problems, edema, water retention, heart disease, fibrocystic and tender breast, cellulite, enlarged prostate and cancer. See ad, page 23
Betty Sue O’Brian, MS, ND, CIII Biloxi, MS 228-257-1946 (cell) www.bettysueobrian.com www.iridologyacademy.org
Dr. O’Brian teaches around the world - iridology, naturopathy and herbalism. Join any of our online classes via Zoom as available or attend in-person iridology classes in Biloxi. Virtual appointments available for iridology and naturopathy. See website or contact Pathway Health for more information. See ad, page 29
More than 35 years’ experience with anxiety, PTSD, weight loss, smoking cessation, removing blockages, regression, behavior modification, energy healing and stream-lining, pain management.
Pet Health
A BETTER WAY HEALTH FOOD STORE
Dr. Mary Sabal, DC, RN 7857 Hwy 59, Foley, AL 251-955-5322 • ABetterWayHealth.net
Complete health food store with full-service human and pet products (alkaline pet food), vitamins, supplements and nutritious snacks. Additional health and wellness services include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, hair tissue mineral analysis and affordable non-invasive stem cell therapy. Call for an appointment. See ad, page 24
The most precious thing I have to give is my time.
—Silvia Hartmann
Physical Therapy
BISHOP PHYSICAL THERAPY & COMPLEX SPINE THERAPY
Dr. Daniel Bishop, DPT, SMT, CIDN, APBC 251-626-7778 • BishopPhysicalTherapy.com Office@BishopPhysicalTherapy.com
Our goal is to help patients overcome pain and conditions in a timely and costeffective manner. We offer a unique experience by combining physical therapy, dry needling, high intensity light therapy, shockwave, PEMF and joint alignment. See ad, page 27
OSTEOSTRONG
FAIRHOPE - FOLEY - MOBILE
Unique System for Developing Skeletal Strength
Josh Fandrich, Owner
333 Greeno Rd., Ste. 2B, Fairhope, AL 2724 Old Shell Rd., Ste. D, Mobile, AL 3828 McKenzie St., Foley, AL Fairhope@OsteoStrong.me
MidtownMobile@OsteoStrong.me
Just 15 minutes, once per week with your personal coach, on our proprietary, osteogenic loading equipment can help you build a stronger you. See ad, page 31
Plant-Based Food
THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ
320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL • 251-929-0055
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
An organic café offering delicious vegetarian, vegan, gluten- and dairy-free options. Lunch daily. See ad, page 25
THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II
3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
An organic café offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten- and dairy-free options. Lunch daily. See ad, page 4
Plant-Forward Medicine
USA HEALTH INTEGRATIVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Fairhope, AL: 21950 Hwy. 181 Mobile, AL: 75 S. University Blvd., Ste. 6500 251-660-6441
IHWP@Health.SouthAlabama.edu
USAHealthSystem.com/Specialties/ Integrative
The Integrative Health and Wellness Program at USA Health combines evidence-based nutrition and culinary medicine to promote healthier eating habits. Through hands-on cook-ing classes and demonstrations, participants learn to make delicious, nutritious meals that support overall well-being and prevent chronic disease.
Quantum Therapy QUANTUM ENERGY WELLNESS BED
Thermography Advantage
Carolyn Olson, Certified Thermographer Mobile & Foley • 251-623-2225
ThermographyAdvantage.com
Raise your voltage with the Quantum Energy Wellness Bed. Featuring full body grounding, personalized frequency therapy, infrared radiant energy, Quantum Light Energy Antenna Technology and magnetic polarization. Improve cellular function and blood flow, stimulate ATP production, accelerate tissue repair, decrease inflammation and more. See ad, page 23
—Terri Guillemets
Vitamins and Supplements
THE HEALTH HUT
680 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL
6845 Hwy. 90, Ste. 108, Daphne, AL Mobile 251-633-0485
Daphne 251-621-1865
HealthHutAL.com
Locally owned and operated health food store for over 40 years.! “Experience the Difference” at both of our locations, Mobile and Daphne. We have knowledgeable staff who are here to help and will treat you like family. See ad, back cover.
VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II
3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL
251-479-3952
Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com
Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, tablets, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 4
Weight Loss
ENRG WELLNESS
620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200, Foley, AL 251-943-9355 • enrGWellness.com
Pilates, weight loss, fatburning systems, food programs, vitamin IV therapy lounge, chiropractic and functional medicine clinic. Custom programs include nutrition, medication and peptide combo. IV vitamin therapies provide relief, healing and recovery for people with health concerns ranging from dehydration to chronic illness. Free onsite consultations. See ad, page 4
HILLSTAR HEALTH
Tara Miller, Functional Medicine
Nurse Practitioner
28720 Hwy. 98, Ste. 1, Daphne, AL 251-241-4346 • HillstarHealthAL.com
Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner Tara McLellan addresses the root cause of disease with integrative medicine— a blend of traditional western medicine and science-based functional medicine. Ask about our custom weight loss program. See ad, page 15
Wellness Studio
BELLA SUNDRIES WELLNESS STUDIO
3602 Old Shell Rd., Ste. A, Mobile, AL 251-631-0427
BellaSundriesWellness.com
Embark upon your healing journey. Offering a wide spectrum of services for mental physical and spiritual well-being all together in one place. Decades of dedicated practice and experience. See ad, page 17
OSTEOSTRONG
FAIRHOPE - FOLEY - MOBILE
Unique System for Developing Skeletal Strength
Josh Fandrich, Owner
333 Greeno Rd., Ste. 2B, Fairhope, AL 2724 Old Shell Rd., Ste. D, Mobile, AL 3828 McKenzie St., Foley, AL Fairhope@OsteoStrong.me MidtownMobile@OsteoStrong.me
Just 15 minutes, once per week with your personal coach, on our proprietary, osteogenic loading equipment can help you build a stronger you.
See ad, page 31
Mark Your Calendar
Mark Your Calendar
2026
Sustainability Summit
Friday, January 30
Doing More with Less
Simple actions every person, business, nonprofit, school and governmental agency can implement to save money and help the environment.
The Lodge at Gulf State Park
For schedule, registration and hotel discount information visit JoinACF.org
Mark Your Calendar
Tiki Food Lab & Learning Center
Executive Chef Ernie Foundas fosters a daring “food lab” focused on umami research, zero waste cooking, and teaching pro-biotic rich fermentation techniques.
Register now at TikiFoodLab.com & @sgtikifarm on Instagram
Mark Your Calendar
ChickPeas
Mediterranean Grill
VEGAN BUFFET
First Saturday every month
December 6 . 6-9pm
January 3, 2026 . 6-9pm
Join us daily for Ms. Ramona’s fine Mediterranean home cooking, and once a month for the Vegan Buffet. A variety of fresh vegetables, perfectly seasoned and lovingly prepared.
850 Blackburn Drive Mobile, AL 251-264-2461 • Follow on Facebook
WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE GULF COAST?
Advertise your monthly events here to reach 10,000+ Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast readers. Includes print, online, e-newsletter and social media.
$75/month or $95 one-time
Mark Your Calendar
Celebration of Hope
Sunday, December 7, 3pm & 6pm
Presented by First Fairhope’s Worship Choir & Orchestra
Celebrate the wonder of the season as we tell the Christmas Story in a new and unique way. No tickets required, but we hope you will attend one of our two presentations! Please invite someone you know to come with you to experience this heartwarming kickoff to the Christmas season.
300 S. Section St., Fairhope FirstFairhope.org • 251-928-8685
Mark Your Calendar
Our Roots Run Deep 5K Race
Saturday, January 10, 8am start from Anna T. Jeanes School 6925 Twin Beach Rd., Fairhope
Join us for our race through historic Fairhope South neighborhood, PLUS Mobile Bay Makers Market, Music & More! Awards for Top Overall male and female and Top 3 in each age group Entry Fees: $25 through Dec. 10
$30 Dec. 11 – Jan 8 • $35 on race day
Support our mission to nurture unity and relationships through food, healing & education. Register @HopeCommunityAL.org or email Info@HopeCommunityAL.org
$1 per word, per month (minimum $40; maximum 50 words). Email content to MichelleS@NAGulfCoast. com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.
Classes/Training
IRIDOLOGY/SCLEROLOGY: SUMMER SPECIAL FALL PRICE. Looking for a new modality? Learn Iris analysis. It reveals genetic and health weaknesses and strengths. Email or text for 1/2 price classes online or in person. DrBettySueOBrian@ gmail.com. 228-257-1946.
For Rent/Lease
OFFICE SPACE for Holistic Health and Wellness Professionals available at MANYA Whole Health & Yoga. If you are looking for the right space to offer your services and integrative collaboration with others, join our holistic wellness center in Mobile Midtown. Call 251.234-4771 or email Contact@ drmanjapodratz.com to schedule a showing.
Opportunities
Flexible opportunity to earn extra income! Help generate leads or sell ad packages for Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast to local businesses and wellness practices. Must live locally and have reliable transportation. Performance-based pay: commissions or lead fees. Covers AL/MS Gulf Coast counties. Contact Michelle Smith at 251990-9552 or MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com.
Services
LIVE NUTRITIONAL BLOOD ANALYSIS to Eat Right For Your Blood Type. BBs Health Foods, 8154 Hwy. 59, Ste. 205, Foley. 251923-5700. BBsHealthFoods.com. Call for an appointment or stop by the shop.
HIRE YOUR OWN HEALTH & WELLNESS PERFORMANCE COACH: Are you struggling to prioritize your health with meal planning, daily exercise, managing stress and sleep? Michelle Smith, Board Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach, will take you by the hand to design a weekly ACTION PLAN. Find out how. 251635-6250 or TryMyCoach@gmail.com.
Into a Business Turn Your Passion
Own Your Own
Natural Awakenings Magazine!
Make a meaningful impact in your community by becoming the owner of a Natural Awakenings magazine. Empower others with current, valuable insights and resources to enhance their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
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Call 239-206-2000 for a FREE evaluation of your community’s potential. Learn more or apply today at: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com
Own a business that makes a difference.
Add Your Community to Where Natural Awakenings Is Now Publishing:
• Atlanta, GA
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• Western Michigan Call for a free evaluation of your community's potential at 239-206-2000. To apply or learn more, visit Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com.
