December 2025 Natural Awakenings Milwaukee Magazine
The Incredible Benefits of NAD+ IV Therapy
NAD+ IV Therapy is a powerful way to restore cellular health and enhance your body’s natural functions. With this therapy, you can experience a wide range of benefits, including:
• Increased Brain Function
• Mental Clarity
• Increased Energy & Metabolism
• Boosted Immune System
• Anti-Aging Effects
• Improved Brain Health
• Improved Neurotransmitter Production
• Cellular Rejuvenation + DNA Repair
• Reduced Pain & Inflammation
Your Healing Journey with Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine treatments involve a series of IV infusions designed to help individuals break free from patterns of negative thoughts that contribute to mental health struggles.
Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Embrace Joy
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on how joy shows up in the quiet corners of everyday life. It’s not always in grand gestures or picture-perfect moments, but in the subtle, nourishing spaces we create for what matters most—a cup of tea shared with a friend, a walk under bare winter trees, or the laughter that bubbles up unexpectedly.
Our feature story this month, “Cultivating Joy: How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives,” reminds us that joy doesn’t always arrive uninvited—it’s something we can cultivate. By simplifying our schedules, setting intentions and connecting with others, we make room for the kind of happiness that lasts beyond the fleeting bustle of the season.
You’ll find this theme of joy woven throughout our December issue. In “The Magic of Gourmet Salts: From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink,” our Conscious Eating department explores how something as simple as salt—often taken for granted—can bring delight, nourishment and connection to our meals. Plus, we share recipes that celebrate natural flavors and mindful preparation, encouraging us to savor both food and the moment.
Our Fit Body section highlights “Cross Training for Holistic Health,” inviting readers to mix up their movement routine to uplift both body and spirit. Whether running, dancing, stretching or cross training, we can approach physical wellness not as a task, but as a joyful celebration of what our bodies can do.
In “The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping,” our Green Living department reminds us that joy multiplies when shared. Supporting local wellness businesses, farmers and artisans not only strengthens our communities, but also fosters a sense of belonging that warms the season.
And for families, “Unwrapping the Past: Helping Kids Connect with Their Family Heritage,” in our Healthy Kids section offers ideas for nurturing roots and identity—a meaningful way to cultivate joy that spans generations.
This December, I invite you to join me in embracing joy in all its forms: the simple, the shared, the deeply felt. May this season be a time to slow down, to notice the good that surrounds us, and to carry that light forward into the new year.
Wishing you warmth, connection and a joyful close to 2025.
Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher
Jordan Peschek
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During your visits with us, you can expect a focus on comfortable, modern and safe dental care. We are committed to offering patients the latest, state-of-the-art dental techniques, materials, and technologies where quality is important and consistency is prioritized.
Plumeria Acupuncture and Holistic Wellness Center is proud to welcome a new practitioner to the team. Dr. Justin Heesakker has been a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist since 2010. He earned his M.S. and Doctorate from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, now called Pacific College of Health and Science, in San Diego, and his B.S. in Business Administration from Marquette University. In addition to performing clinical and medical education work, Dr. Justin has developed integrative medicine programs at UCLA; the Penny George Institute of Health and Healing at Allina Health in Minneapolis; VA Medical Centers in Washington, DC and Minneapolis and at Naval Hospital Camp in Pendleton, California. In his private practice work, he has focused on fertility, pain relief, sleep medicine and stress management.
Dr. Justin has completed clinical internships at the San Diego Hospice and the Institute for Palliative Medicine, the University of California at San Diego Sports Medicine Program, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego and AcuSport Health Center. These experiences facilitated his interest in working with integrative teams and with diverse patient populations with a wide range of complexity. Each experience provided opportunities to serve unique groups of patients. This has helped shape a broad perspective on how people can optimize their own health and well-being and live with improved vitality.
Justin was an acupuncture patient for almost 10 years before he began the path to studying Eastern Asian medical systems and becoming a practitioner himself. “It is a lifelong journey of learning from a rich historic field that integrates all elements of mind, body and spirit,” Dr. Justin shares.
He’s very excited to begin seeing patients at Plumeria Acupuncture and Holistic Wellness Center. Dr. Justin lives in Port Washington and enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors in nature, as well as cooking healthy meals and enjoying the local farmers markets.
Thiensville location: 136 N. Main St., Ste. 203, inside the Thiensville Health Alliance.
Mayfair location: 2500 N. Mayfair Rd., Ste. 410, Wauwatosa.
For more information or to book an appointment, call Plumeria Acupuncture at 414-687-0087 or visit PlumeriaAcupuncture.com. See ad page 9.
Newest Dentist Joins Bionica Dental Wellness
Bionica Dental Wellness, of Delafield, recently welcomed Dr. Jamie Mandigo as the newest member of its skilled team. With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Mandigo brings a passion for personalized, holistic care that blends science, artistry and meaningful connection. She believes dentistry is “as much about relationships as it is about smiles,” a value shaped by her smalltown upbringing where everyone knew one another.
Dr. Mandigo earned her undergraduate degree with honors from University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, followed by her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Marquette School of Dentistry. Her expertise includes Invisalign, oral conscious sedation, diode laser dentistry and the use of BioCeramic (metal-free) materials. She continues to advance her skills through ongoing education and professional memberships, including the Waukesha County Dental Society. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband, four children, and their dog Ruby, as well as hiking, reading and baking bread.
Location: 2574 Sun Valley Dr., Ste. 100, in Delafield. Patients can schedule an appointment by calling 262-337-9745, emailing Sydney at Hello@BionicaDentalWellness.com or visiting BionicaDentalWellness.com See ad on page 5.
Dr. Justin Heesakker
L-R: Dr. Hira Chughtai, Dr. Udoka Holinbeck and Dr. Jamie Mandigo
DNA Hemp Calls for Cannabis Reform to Protect Wisconsin Farmers
Ashley and Danny Shafer, local farmers and co-owners of DNA Hemp, issue a strong call to action on what her team calls the “THCA loophole,” arguing it is crippling Wisconsin’s agricultural economy while out-of-state producers reap the rewards. They highlight that most psychoactive hemp products sold in Wisconsin—such as THCA flower and Delta-9 seltzers—are imported due to restrictive state laws limiting hemp cultivation to less than 0.3 percent total THC by dry weight.
While the booming hemp market provides consumers with legal access to wellness products, DNA Hemp co-founders stress that the profits “flow across state lines,” leaving Wisconsin farmers sidelined. Advocates urge lawmakers to adopt comprehensive cannabis reform that allows local cultivation and processing, warning that the current legal gap could close at any moment, devastating small businesses dependent on the trade.
Community members are encouraged to contact state legislators and voice support for full legalization to ensure Wisconsin farmers can benefit from a market they helped build. More information is available at DNAHempLLC.com
Celebrate 15 Years of Women’s Herbal Wisdom
The Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference will mark its 15th year from May 22 to 24 in Almond, Wisconsin, bringing together women of all ages and backgrounds to learn about plants and holistic health.
The conference offers diverse workshops led by experienced herbalists, healers and educators. Topics include plant identification, herbal medicine preparation, women’s health and Earth-based spiritual practices. Keynote speakers at the next edition include Linda Conroy, Pam Montgomery, Robin Rose Bennet and Jiling Lin.
This annual gathering celebrates women’s connection to nature and to each other, providing valuable resources, hands-on experiences and a vibrant community for personal and collective healing.
Location: 9341 Asbury Dr., Almond, WI. For more information or to register (recommended), visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com See ad on page 11.
Unlocking the Healing Power of the Brain with QFLBAM
“Most adults operate with only a fraction of their brain’s potential, especially in the prefrontal cortex—the region responsible for focus, empathy and imagination,” explains Dr. Ann Bell, founder of A New Compass for Wellness, in Jackson. Neuroscientists estimate that we use just 10 to 20 percent of this area daily, while up to 70 percent of brain activity is spent in stress response mode. This imbalance limits access to creativity, emotional regulation and healing.
Dr. Ann’s QFLBAM program—Quantum Field Light and Brain Activation Method—offers a holistic solution. According to Dr. Ann, by combining breathwork, light frequency exposure, gentle touch and movement, QFLBAM helps shift the nervous system from survival mode to healing mode. The method activates the prefrontal cortex and calms the limbic system, allowing the brain to function with greater coherence and clarity.
Participants report feeling more grounded, emotionally balanced and creatively inspired. The practice is simple and accessible—no special equipment or extensive training required. Just a few minutes of intentional breath and light exposure can begin to rewire the brain’s default settings.
The team at A New Compass for Wellness invites new clients to try QFLBAM and help support the brain’s full capacity for problem-solving, sensing beauty, connecting deeply and imagining new possibilities. “Your brain isn’t broken—it’s brilliant. It simply needs the right conditions to thrive,” says Dr. Ann. New clients can experience this unique therapy at a special rate and preview sessions I and II of Dr. Ann’s 24-session journey.
Location: W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct., Jackson. For more information or to make an appointment, call 262-644-7050, email Office@DrAnnBell.com or visit DrAnnBell.com See ad on this page.
Phot courtesy Midwest Womens Herbal Conference
Midwest Womens Herbal Conference Team
The Greener Guide to Wintering
by Patti Beres
Wintering is a season of protection and renewal. Roots rest, energy is conserved, and nature quiets. Bodies crave unhurried rhythms this season, while calendars crowd.
Wintering offers a gentler seasonal script. In landscapes, evergreens hold shelter and seed heads feed birds. A light quilt of shredded leaves or compost guards soil life. Icy paths cleared with salt-free de-icer keep walkways safer. Tools prepped ahead are efficient in spring. At home, simple stewardship becomes care that outlasts urgency. Decorate and gift for quality over quantity. Prep hearty meals. Share a pot of soup (and friendship) with neighbors.
This year carries a tender new marker for me: becoming a grandmother. Baby’s quiet breath nudges a gentle hush - soft and steady - as a reminder that strength is gathered in stillness. Calm allows small gestures to deepen connection: a table set with care and candlelight, a lantern by the door, fresh snow catching starlight. Wintering, in gardens and in lives, makes space for grace, connection and renewal. Rest is not absence or laziness; it’s necessary. Preparation readies roots, homes, and hearts for what will grow with time, imagination, and love.
Patti Beres is the owner of Be Green Pro LLC, sustainable landscape services, in southeastern Wisconsin. Call 262-361-4034 or visit BeGreen.pro. See listing on page 36.
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.
yurakrasil/CanvaPro
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.
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.
mscornelius from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Hidden Clues that Oral Health Reveals About Whole-Body Wellness
by Dr. Supriya K. Shetty
Most people think of oral health as something that only affects the teeth and gums, but research now shows that the mouth has a much larger story to tell. It can act as an early signal of what may be happening throughout the body. Inflammation or infection in the mouth often reflects an imbalance that can influence heart health, metabolic function, immune response and even cognitive wellness.
A review published in the British Dental Journal highlights how chronic gum inflammation is linked with higher risks for systemic concerns including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Scientists explain that the bacteria responsible for gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to a cycle of low-grade, persistent inflammation in other areas of the body. The ADA Science & Research Institute also notes that oral bacteria and inflammatory markers are being studied for their roles in pregnancy outcomes, autoimmune responses and neurodegenerative conditions.
What Your Gums May Be Communicating
Periodontal disease begins quietly, often with subtle signs such as tenderness, light bleeding when brushing, or a change in breath odor. These symptoms reflect a shift in the community of bacteria below the gumline. When the body responds to these bacteria, inflammation develops. If this inflammation continues, it can affect more than the supporting structures around the teeth. Researchers are now examining how this same inflammatory response contributes to the health of the heart, brain and metabolic system.
A growing body of evidence shows meaningful connections. Oral bacteria have been found to influence arterial health. People with diabetes may experience more challenges
controlling blood sugar when gum inflammation is present. Pregnant individuals with poor gum health appear to face higher risks for complications related to birth weight and timing. Certain oral pathogens have even been identified in the brain tissue of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, prompting ongoing exploration into how oral microbes may travel throughout the body.
Early Testing for Personalized Insight
Advances in diagnostic technology are reshaping how oral health is approached. Salivary testing offers a comfortable and informative way to identify harmful bacteria and measure the body’s inflammatory tendencies. The British Dental Journal review emphasizes the value of this type of early detection because it gives dental professionals the opportunity to tailor care long before symptoms progress.
Simple Habits with Whole-Body Impact
Daily choices play an important role in creating balance. Gentle brushing, flossing and nutrient-rich foods support a healthy oral
Dr. Supriya K. Shetty
environment. Staying hydrated protects saliva flow, which naturally helps cleanse the mouth. Stress management and regular dental visits also contribute to healthier outcomes. Anyone with persistent gum bleeding, chronic inflammation or a family history of periodontal disease may benefit from a comprehensive evaluation that includes salivary testing.
Research continues to show that caring for the mouth benefits the entire body. When oral tissues are healthy, they help support the immune system, cardiovascular system and overall well-being. A mindful approach to oral care can become a foundation for a healthier life.
Dr. Supriya K. Shetty is a biological dentist committed to integrative, whole-body dental care. She blends advanced technology with a holistic philosophy that focuses on identifying root causes, restoring balance and supporting long-term wellness. As the owner of Integrative Dental Solutions, in Brookfield, Wisconsin, she provides biocompatible dentistry, airway-focused care and personalized treatment for individuals seeking a more natural approach to oral health. For more information, visit WINaturalDentist.com. See ad on back cover.
December’s Duality
Embracing Joy and Melancholy
by Marlaina Donato
December can be a bittersweet paradox of festive celebrations and short, gloomy days filled with contrasting emotions. As the old year fades into the golden spark of a new beginning, we may find ourselves entangled in the beautiful complexity of being human. The twelfth month challenges us to accept the dichotomy of jubilation and melancholy, eagerness and regret. By acknowledging and making room for the harder emotions, we can fully embrace joy.
Just as the bare trees of the north stand boldly against the sky, December urges us to dive into self-honesty to discover the eternal flame deep within us, untouched by the world’s chaos. Celebrating the holy days of winter can be an internal, sacred journey.
Kindling the flames of empathy and goodwill is a form of self-care that ignites positive change for ourselves and others. Embodying our light can be as simple as pausing before reacting in anger or allowing others to hold their own opinions, even when they differ from ours. Feeling more alive in our merriness often happens effortlessly when we choose to live and let live.
As winter arrives and sweet aromas fill the kitchen, December allows us to embrace all that is beautiful and nourishing. Should a ghost of wistfulness haunt a moment of glee, we can choose to embrace what is possible in the present moment between the past and the future. This month, be inspired to:
• Release the need to control outcomes and welcome spontaneity and flow.
• Embody joy without guilt, even when the world seems in turmoil.
• Allow feelings of grief while cherishing fond memories of lost loved ones.
• Invest in what brings lasting joy and meaning.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com
Liesl Clark from Pexels/CanvaPro
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 experiences 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 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 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.
Numerous amazing benefits:
• Fat Loss & Body Contouring
• Cellular Detox
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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
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.
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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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 focusing 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) kali9 from Getty
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 sideto-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-onone 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.
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
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 memory-making 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.
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 practices 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
Immerse yourself in Nature and connect with Spirit!
Our 200-acre Retreat Center offers the perfect environment for learning and healing. Workshops & sessions in Shamanism, Mediumship, Reiki, Intuition Development and much more!
Amy & David Wilinski
Calendar of Events
January 23-25, 2026
Glisten Winter Wellness Retreat 2026
Step into a transformative 3-day retreat themed Ignite Your Inner Light, designed to rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. The weekend includes workshops, sound baths, ecstatic dance, music and healing practices. Early bird bonus: Thursday night lodging included at no extra cost while availability lasts. $1,999 includes meals, events and accommodations.
Lake Lawn Resort 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan 847-722-9653
MoonBeaman.com
February
8, 2026
Awaken Your Intuition! – 9am-1pm. Discover how to access your intuitive gifts and connect with spiritual guidance in this experiential workshop. Learn to identify your primary intuitive channel, open your third eye and ear chakras, and sense energy fields and auras. Includes guided meditations and connection with your spirit guide or angel. Golden Light Healing Retreat Center, 7102 Sundew Rd., Sobieski. $111. 920-609-8277.
April 10–12, 2026
Ancient Irish Celtic Shamanism – 9:30am5:30pm. Explore the ancient Irish Shamanic tradition in this 3-day immersive workshop with Irish teacher and author Amantha Murphy. Learn about journeying, ancestral healing, the Wheel of the Sun and more through drumming, sound and movement. $650, includes lunch. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
May 28–31, 2026
Peruvian Shamanism Training – 1:30pm Thu–1pm Sun. Begin a 4-part immersive training in Peruvian Shamanism with native teacher Jose Luis Herrera. Develop a mesa—your personal medicine bundle and map of healing. Requires full commitment to all four sessions: May 28–31, July 23–26, Sept 10–13, Nov 12–15. $799 per session, includes meals. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
October 15-18, 2026
Whispers on the Wind Shamanic Program – Jan. 1-4. Begin a year-long intensive in shamanism, energy medicine, and self-transformation with Amy Wilinski. Attend all four sessions, of four days each, to explore energy healing techniques, ancestral clearing, power animal and soul retrieval and nature connection. $750/session includes meals. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
Saturday: Energy Flow Yoga – 9am Yoga 4 All is a welcoming studio that can help you connect with your body, mind and spirit. See website for full class schedule and all purchase options.
6-Class Pass for $69
208 East Oak Crest Dr, Wales 414-559-3852
Monday
Chair Yoga with Marietta 12-1pm
Chair-based yoga designed for those with physical limitations who want to build strength and balance without traditional floor poses. $15 drop-in; 10 classes for $89.
Midwest Shorin-Ryu Health & Wellness Center 9130 W Loomis Rd Ste 750 Franklin 414-235-3788
MidwestShorinRyu.com
Friday
First Friday Free! 7am-8pm
First Fridays of the month. Join us for a day full of movement: integrative dance, tai chi and yoga classes. FREE.
Open Door Wellness 9205 W. Center St, #202, Milwaukee Call 414-563-7341 to register
Classifieds
Natural Supplements
ALIVE ‘N VIBRANT SUPERFOOD & PROTEIN POWDERS – 100% organic. Feel alive and vibrant no matter what your health history. Shop at your local Outpost Natural Foods or online: AliveNVibrant.com
AROMATHERAPY/ESSENTIAL OILS
– Aromatherapy products to support mental, emotional and physical wellness. Formulated by a local scientist and certified aromatherapist to help you live a healthier, more balanced life. BDivineAroma.com
ORGANIC HERBAL TEAS – Targeted Herbal Teas for The Pancreas, Lymph, Liver, Kidneys, Prostate, Lungs, Heart & More. Samples Available. EarthSanaStore.com/tea. 954-459-1134.
Now Hiring
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESSPatient Care Liaison position available. Join a wellness team today that supports integrative healing of body, mind and spirit. Call today for info: 262395-4023.
HOLISTIC BODYWORKERS, MOVEMENT AND NON-MOVEMENT INSTRUCTORS – Massage, PT, Reiki, Yoga, Acupuncture, Dance, Martial Arts, Meditation, Mindfulness – We Are Hiring at Open Door Wellness! 414-563-7341. Send resume to Info@OpenDoorMovementStudio.com OpenDoorWellness.org. 9205 W Center St, #201-202, Milwaukee.
TOTAL HEALTH NUTRITION CENTER – Join our team of holistic health practitioners and help improve the health and well-being of those we serve. Send resume to Clinic@TotalHealthInc.com
Room For Rent
LEASING SPACE – Quality office space starting at $250/month. Convenient Mequon or Pewaukee location, flexible terms, awesome landlords. To learn more: visit MBOfficeSpace.com or call 262-834-6214.
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NaturalMKE.com to request our media kit.
Advertising/Marketing
NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE
Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher 262-623-7948
Publisher@NaturalMKE.com NaturalMKE.com
Are you passionate about wellness? Trying to reach more clients you can help? Natural Awakenings is our community’s #1 multimedia resource for natural, holistic health and eco-friendly living. Reaching over 40,000 loyal print and digital readers each month. Call or text 262-623-7948 to learn more or book your 10-minute discovery call today.
Acupuncture
PLUMERIA ACUPUNCTURE AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER, LLC 2500 N Mayfair Rd, Ste 410, Wauwatosa 414-687-0087
Dr. Mizuno, DAOM, L.Ac, has a passion for helping clients regain their beautiful and happy smiles while transforming to a healthier version of themselves. She doesn’t treat symptoms, she treats patients. See ad on page 9.
Astrology/Human Design Readings
MBW LIFEART CONSULTING
Martha S. Bache-Wiig B.A., C.A.P.E. 405 E Forest St, Oconomowoc 262-510-4815 CenterPerson.org
Helping you align with your unique soul-centered talents to balance your energy, your inner life, relationships with others, your work /career and your relationship with money.
Discover your life path. Align with your innate strengths, navigate self growth, career exploration, relationship wellness and decision making through astrology readings and consultations.
Offering ayurveda and yoga classes including Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, all with an Ayurvedic influence. Moonflower also offers one-on-one yoga, Ayurvedic Health Counseling and private group yoga in studio and off site. See ad on page 17.
Body Contouring
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com
DrAnnBell.com
Shed stubborn fat and lose inches pain-free with Dr. Ann’s Zerona Z6 Laser, a non-invasive treatment that delivers noticeable results without discomfort or downtime. Call our office to schedule your complimentary consultation. See ad on page 10.
Chiropractic
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com
DrAnnBell.com
Dr. Ann’s specialty is helping clients redirect their life compass, guiding them to newfound purpose. Reach new possibilities with The Brain Activation Method program and ZeronaZ6 Laser for Fat Loss. See ad on page 10.
Ready to unlock your full potential? Partner with Taylor Chudy on your powerful journey toward confidence, self-acceptance, and true self-understanding. Her coaching platform is a safe, judgment-free zone to speak freely, explore and discover what’s been holding you back. Break through barriers and launch toward your goals with clarity and purpose! Call or email now to book your FREE discovery call and start your transformation! See ad on page 23.
Coaching, Trauma Healing
CELESTIAL COACHING & BODYWORK
Erica Hodgson, LMT
675 N. Brookfield Rd. Ste. 101, Brookfield 262-227-6548 | EricaHodgson.com
Offering transformational, orthopedic and deep relaxation massage, intuitive bodywork, reiki & transformational coaching. She listens to your body to help get to the root cause of your pain with a very body, mind, spirit approach. See ad on page 17.
Natural Escape elevates wellness through a holistic approach, integrating colon hydrotherapy, advanced massage techniques, health coaching, red light therapy and infrared sauna. Our holistic coaching empowers clients to detox, heal and thrive, addressing stress at its root.
Mind. Body. Spirit. Planet. Community.
VIVA WELLNESS
12625 W Burleigh Rd, Brookfield
262-777-8482 (VIVA)
VivaWellnessWI.com
Boutique Medical Weight Loss blended with holistic wellness treatments to help you become your best. See ad on page 3.
Crystals
ANGEL LIGHT CENTER FOR THE HEALING ARTS
2331 S 108th St, West Allis 262-787-3001 | AngelLightShopping.com
Experience over 20,000 amazing crystals, rocks, gemstones, natural stone jewelry and metaphysical supplies, all at affordable prices. Angel Light also offers great workshops, intuitive readings and personal healing sessions.
ANGELIC ROOTS CRYSTALS, WELLNESS CENTER & APOTHECARY
8612 & 8659 S Market Place, Oak Creek 414-304-5184 | AngelicRoots.com
Angelic Roots offers two retail spaces & a wellness center featuring crystals, jewelry, metaphysical tools, sound healing instruments, apothecary, and gifts. Wellness services including Reiki, Sound Baths, classes, workshops, and more!
REMEDY WITHIN MASSAGE THERAPY & SPIRITUAL GIFTS
13425 Watertown Plank Rd, Elm Grove 262-307-8892 | RemedyWithin.com
We provide a diverse assortment of crystals, minerals and stones. Locally made jewelry, spiritual items, sage, candles, cleansing sprays, CBD and essential oils are available along with intuitive readings, crystal healing and massage therapy.
Decluttering & Organizing
SHEPHERD ORGANIZING & COACHING
Dar Shepherd, Professional Organizer Serving Waukesha & Greater Milwaukee 906-360-3000
ShepherdOrganizing.com
Dar works alongside you to clear the clutter and organize to create a simpler life. Living clutter-free improves our overall health and well-being. Group presentations. In-person and virtual FREE consults. Home · Office · Business.
Dentistry
BIONICA DENTAL WELLNESS
2574 Sun Valley Dr, Ste 100, Delafield 262-337-9745 | BionicaDentalWellness.com
Come experience modern, comprehensive, biological dentistry for the health-conscious community. Dr. Udoka Holinbeck’s holistic approach will give you confidence in your smile and your health. See ad on page 5.
HOLISTIC DENTISTRY OF PORT WASHINGTON
222 N Franklin St, Port Washington 262-235-4525
HolisticDentistryWI.com
Accepting new patients! Dr. Jana Ledic has been practicing dentistry since 2011 and believes in helping patients in the most natural way possible. See ad on page 7.
“…Because a healthy Body, starts with a healthy Mouth.” Our office specializes in treating the cause of the problem and not just the symptoms; we offer the latest advances in dentistry. See ad on back cover.
Education
CONCORDIA
UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN School of Pharmacy CUW.edu/NPS
Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference! Discover Your Future in Natural Product Sciences with our flexible graduate programs. Choose from a 30-credit online Master’s degree or a 12-credit graduate certificate, both designed to fit your life and goals. Specialize in medical cannabis or nutraceuticals, and prepare for exciting roles in health care, pharmacy, research and development, manufacturing, business and beyond. See ad on page 23.
Energy Enhancement System
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-ofthe-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ad on page 7.
Energy Healing
BODYIGNITE, LLC
Dawn Coleman Mind, Body and Soul Practitioner 414-339-6688 | BodyIgnite.com
Dawn walks in both the Seen and Unseen worlds. She is a Shamanic healer and Reiki practitioner as well as a personal trainer, combining the Healing Arts.
LUX EXTERNA HEALING
262-510-1012
Ann@LuxEternaHealing.com LuxEternaHealing.com
Support your healing from trauma, overcoming of anxiety, recovery from injury, or movement through grief with energy healing. Achieve balance of mindbody-spirit through shifting perception, loving who you are, and healing the energy that blocks joy, connection and physical ease.
Karina Ramsey is a multi-passionate individual who teaches yoga, practices reiki, herbalism, astrology and tarot. Her offerings are a blend of different disciplines with the aim to provide tools that enhance your spiritual well-being and promote self discovery.
SOLANA SOUL
Sara Joy
200 W Summit Ave, Ste 210, Wales Sara@SolanaSoul.com SolanaSoul.com
Equine Therapy
HORSE POWER HEALING CENTER
S101 W34628 Cty Rd LO, Eagle, WI
262-594-3667
HorsePowerHealingCenter.com
Individuals and families can benefit from a wide range of activities with horses and other farm animals. Equine-Assisted Services programs include therapeutic riding or groundwork lessons. All are welcome: children, adults, veterans and those with special needs.
Fitness
AWELL + VITALITY
FITNESS • SKINCARE • RECOVERY 414-331-8852
222 E Erie St, #150, Milwaukee AestheticallyWell.com
Milwaukee’s first holistic med spa and modern health club offer holistic medical skincare and facials, nutrition coaching, assisted stretching, personal training and more. Ask about our infrared sauna and cold plunge.
MIDWEST SHORIN-RYU HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Morganne MacDonald and Vince Milewski
9130 W Loomis Rd, Ste. 750, Franklin 414-235-3788
MidwestShorinRyu.com
Martial arts and wellness center offering karate, kobudo, yoga, and self-defense. Coming soon, Tai Chi, Qigong, Pilates and holistic fitness programs. See ad on page 25.
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202 414-563-7341
OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 15.
SBR THERAPY & WELLNESS
W61N397 Washington Ave, Cedarburg 262-328-4178 | SBRTherapy.com
Lake Country’s premier wellness spot offering energy work, intuitive guidance, sound healing and grief support by internationally recognized intuitive Sara Joy.
Be
Food/Restaurant
TO YOUR HEALTH JUICERY
920-655-5842
ToYourHealthJuicery@Gmail.com
ToYourHealthJuicery.com
Mother-daughter owned organic cold-pressed juice company offering graband-go bottles, juice packs, and cleanses. Available at the Mequon Public Market and farmers markets, pickup, delivery and shipping.
Led by Gwen, a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, our guided Forest Therapy walks are sensory immersions designed to reconnect you with the natural world and, ultimately, with yourself. Public, private and corporate offerings available.
Trail Dog & Company is a professional hiking guide service dedicated to helping you experience the beauty of nature in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Let’s hit the trails!
Holistic Health
BROOKFIELD HEALTH
& WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-of-the-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ad on page 7.
Specializing in training, recovery and support for swimmers, bikers and runners including myofascial release and bodywork. Now Hiring Wellness Professionals!
Hypnotherapy
ORIGINS HYPNOTHERAPY
Linda Neeb, Certified Hypnotherapist OriginsHypnotherapy@gmail.com
Release stress, blocks and distractions that stand in your way. Through the power of Hypnotic Suggestions, you can shift limiting beliefs, reprogram your mindset and create lasting changes in your behavior - allowing you to align with your goals and desires. Start with a half-hour complimentary call. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you to new beginnings.
Landscape/Lawncare Service
BE GREEN PRO LLC
Patricia Beres Delafield, WI
262-361-4034
Hello@BeGreen.pro | BeGreen.pro
Sustainable fall and winter yard services, snow and ice melt, and landscaping. Your trusted residential and commercial partner for over 30 years. Our expert horticulturalists and turf technicians provide nature-inspired, low-toxicity solutions for outdoor needs. From turf to trees, insect and pest control, to snow and ice management, our all-natural methods are safer for people, pets and the planet.
ECO HARMONY LANDSCAPE
414-810-5858
4225 N. 124th St., Brookfield
Info@EcoHarmonyLandscaping.com
Mike.EcoHarmony@gmail.com
EcoHarmonyLandscaping.com
Ecologically minded, full-service landscape company servicing SE Wisconsin. Specializing in sustainable ideas and low-maintenance solutions. Professional craftsmanship inspired by nature. See ad on page 27.
Martial Arts
MIDWEST SHORIN-RYU HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Morganne MacDonald and Vince Milewski
9130 W Loomis Rd, Ste. 750, Franklin 414-235-3788
MidwestShorinRyu.com
Martial arts and wellness center offering karate, kobudo, yoga, and self-defense. Coming soon, Tai Chi, Qigong, Pilates and holistic fitness programs. See ad on page 25.
Offering transformational, orthopedic and deep relaxation massage, intuitive bodywork, reiki & transformational coaching. She listens to your body to help get to the root cause of your pain with a very body, mind, spirit approach. Try our self-service options at the spa at 675! See ad on page 17.
FLORA & STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
Jessica Lueneburg
W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste C, Cedarburg
Jess.info@FloraStoneMT.com FloraStoneMT.com
Creating a mind-body-soul connection for each individual through massage therapy services, restorative bodywork classes and 1:1 holistic nutrition coaching. In-person cupping, hot/cold stone, Thai massage, Yomassage and virtual nutrition services available.
MAPLEROOTS MASSAGE LLC
Ellie Ziegner, LMT
19395 W Capitol Dr, Suite L05, Brookfield (inside Blazek Chiropractic) 414-367-7034
MaplerootsMassage.com
Mapleroots Massage offers personalized therapeutic and restorative massage therapy services, blending expert techniques with thoughtful enhancements including cupping, reiki, sound, herbals and aromatherapy for complete relaxation and tension relief.
MIND & BODY CONNECTION
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE
Christine E. Maddox 12336 W Layton Ave, Ste 5, Greenfield 414-750-0855
Therapeutic and orthopedic massage therapy center that accepts insurance and Medicare. Medical massage helps improve movement, flexibility, strength, acute/ chronic pain and injuries. See ad on page 21.
MedicineNaturopathic
LAKESIDE NATURAL MEDICINE
Dr. Sarah Axtell, Dr. Mackenzie Prentice, Dr. Katarina Meister and Dr. Erica Linn 3510 N Oakland Ave, Shorewood LakesideNaturalMedicine.com 414-939-8748
Naturopathic doctors with a focus on autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, hormone imbalance, weight loss and hypothyroidism. See ad on page 13.
From Suffering to Peace offers meditation & mindfulness classes, guiding individuals toward inner peace, joy and personal growth.
Mental Health
MBW LIFEART
CONSULTING
Martha S. Bache-Wiig B.A., C.A.P.E. 405 E Forest St, Oconomowoc 262-510-4815 | CenterPerson.org
Whole-person counseling and coaching for lasting well-being—in-person, virtual and group options. Unlock your authentic talents, desires and goals with a unique approach. Martha is an International Counselor-Trainer in Existential Personalistic Anthropology.
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202 414-563-7341
OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 15.
There is no real ending. It’s just the place where you stop the story.
—Frank Herbert
Myofascial Release
SPECIALIZED THERAPY SERVICES
890 Elm Grove Rd, Ste 1-1, Elm Grove 414-778-1341
SpecializedTherapyServices.com
Specialized Therapy Services began in 2002, providing comprehensive MFR treatment programs. Currently, it is the only private MFR clinic accepting multiple insurance plans including Medicare. See ad on page 23.
Natural Cleaning
ROXY’S NATURAL CLEANING, LLC
Roxanne Reichert
262-528-2762
RoxysNaturalCleaning@gmail.com
Roxy’s natural cleaning is committed to getting the job done without the use of harmful chemicals. Call/text/email today to schedule your walk through. See ad on page 27.
Nutrition
FLORA & STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
Jessica Lueneburg
W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste C, Cedarburg
262-894-6915 | FloraStoneMT.com
Creating a mind-body-soul connection for each individual through massage therapy services, restorative bodywork classes and 1:1 holistic nutrition coaching. In-person cupping, hot/cold stone, Thai massage, Yomassage and virtual nutrition services are available.
NOURISHING WELLNESS
Jamie Kernen R.N., CNC
Sara Mehring R.N., CNC, GAPS Certified Delafield, WI 53018 262-244-6324
NourishingWellness4U.com
We listen, identify the root cause of health concerns and show you step-by-step how to improve health with real, whole foods & proper nutritional support. Tools include tissue (hair) mineral analysis, bioresonance scanning and nutritional guidance.
SEED OF LIFE NUTRITIONAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Karen D. Krchma, RDN, CD, CBS 163 N Green Bay Rd, Thiensville 414-315-8800
Info@NewNewtrition.com
Nutrition counseling service specializing in personalized health and wellness plans. Karen Krchma, is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Dietitian and Biofeedback Specialist who has been practicing in Wisconsin for over 20 years to help individuals achieve goals for vitality.
Nutrition Supplements
ALIVE N VIBRANT
Superfood and Protein Powders
AliveNVibrant@gmail.com AliveNVibrant.com
Locally made, 100 percent organic superfood powders to keep you feeling alive and vibrant no matter what your health history. Shop at your local Outpost Natural Foods or online: AliveNVibrant.com.
Personal Training
SBR THERAPY & WELLNESS
W61N397 Washington Ave, Cedarburg 262-204-8383 | SBRTherapy.com
Specializing in training, recovery and support for swimmers, bikers and runners including myofascial release and bodywork. Now Hiring Wellness Professionals!
Physical Therapy
REVITALIZE PHYSICAL THERAPY
Hales Corners & Wauwatosa 414-708-8066
Revitalize-PT.com
We specialize in helping women from preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and everything in between to resolve common pelvic floor issues through a hands-on, personalized, cohesive approach to live healthy and active lives. See ad on page 17.
Psychics/Mediums
PSYCHIC IN THE DELLS
608-253-0022
PsychicInTheDells.com
HALF OFF with this ad
Are you seeking answers to life’s biggest questions? Trust your intuition and unlock your inner clarity from a gifted, accurate and compassionate psychic who can guide you through love, career and personal growth. Whether you’re at a crossroads or simply curious about what the future holds, a psychic reading offers the clarity you need.
Quantum Healing
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com
DrAnnBell.com
Dr. Ann’s Quantum Field Light and Brain Activation Method combines light frequencies, gentle touch, and guided breath-work to help clients achieve empowerment, self-trust and body/ mind integration through physical and quantum healing. See ad on page 10.
Real Estate
SHOREWEST REALTORS
Cierra Burmeister 262-607-0215
CBurmeister@Shorewest.com
Cierra.Shorewest.com
Buyer and seller consultations available. Trust and communication from our first meeting to closing. Clients can expect a relationship beyond the closing table to ensure their home needs are always met. See ad on page 29.
Reflexology
RENEWED YOU REFLEXOLOGY
414-852-7870
Renewed-You-Reflexology.square.site
Stress Less! Reflexology applies direct stimulation to areas of your feet that reflect the organs of the body to help reduce stress and tension in the body. Call for an appointment.
Reiki
ANGELIC ROOTS
Crystals, Wellness Center & Apothecary 8612 & 8659 S Market Place, Oak Creek 414-304-5184
AngelicRoots.com
Angelic Roots offers two retail spaces & a wellness center featuring crystals, jewelry, metaphysical tools, sound healing instruments, apothecary, and gifts. Wellness services including Reiki, Sound Baths, classes, workshops and more!
Offering workshops, sessions, group & personal retreats in shamanism, mediumship, reiki, psychic development and more. See ad on page 31.
SACRED SPACES FOR SPIRITUAL HEALING
Dawn Coleman W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste A, Cedarburg 414-339-6688 | BodyIgnite.com
Offering retreats, groups, workshops and intuitive energy services to bring a sense of well-being, stress relief, and inner peace to the body, mind, and energy body. Take a break from daily life and focus on wellness, self-discovery and relaxation.
Skin Care/Spa
AWELL + VITALITY
FITNESS • SKINCARE • RECOVERY 414-331-8852
222 E Erie St, #150, Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s first holistic med spa and modern health club offer holistic medical skincare and facials, nutrition coaching, assisted stretching, personal training and more. Ask about our infrared sauna and cold plunge.
Sound Healing
ANGELIC ROOTS
Crystals, Wellness Center & Apothecary 8612 & 8659 S Market Place, Oak Creek 414-304-5184
AngelicRoots.com
Angelic Roots offers two retail spaces & a wellness center featuring crystals, jewelry, metaphysical tools, sound healing instruments, apothecary and gifts. Wellness services including Reiki, Sound Baths, classes, workshops and more!
Weight Loss
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050
DrAnnBell.com
Shed stubborn fat and lose inches pain-free with Dr. Ann’s Zerona Z6 Laser, a non-invasive treatment that delivers noticeable results without discomfort or downtime. Call our office to schedule your complimentary consultation. See ad on page 10.
VIVA WELLNESS
12625 W Burleigh Rd, Brookfield 262-777-8482 (VIVA)
VivaWellnessWI.com
Boutique Medical Weight Loss blended with holistic wellness treatments to help you become your best. See ad on page 3.
Wellness Center
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-of-the-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ad on page 7.
Wellness Marketing
NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE
Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher 262-623-7948
Publisher@NaturalMKE.com
NaturalMKE.com
Are you passionate about wellness?
Trying to reach more clients you can help? Natural Awakenings is our community’s #1 multimedia resource for natural, holistic health and eco-friendly living. Reaching over 40,000 loyal print and digital readers each month. Call or text 262-623-7948 to learn more or book your 10-minute discovery call today.
Offering ayurveda and yoga classes including Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, all with an Ayurvedic influence. Moonflower also offers one-on-one yoga, Ayurvedic Health Counseling and private group yoga in studio and off site. See ad on page 17.
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202, Milwaukee 414-563-7341
OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 15.
YOGA 4 ALL WI
208 East Oak Crest Dr, Wales, WI 53183 414 559 3852
Yoga4AllWI.com
Yoga 4 All is a welcoming studio catering to all levels. We are experienced teachers in a beautiful studio ready to help you connect with your body, mind and spirit.
December has the clarity, the simplicity, and the silence you need for the best fresh start of your life.
—Vivian Swift
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.
As a franchise owner, you’ll inspire positive change, provide readers with tools for healthier living and connect local businesses with an audience eager for transformation.
Why Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine?
n Create a Healthier Community: Be the go-to resource for wellness and personal growth in your area.
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n A proven business model with low startup costs.
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Join a thriving network of passionate franchise owners reshaping the future of holistic health and wellness.
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
Add Your Community to Where Natural Awakenings Is Now Publishing:
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Biological, Holistic Dental Care For Your Family in a Comfortable & Caring Setting
