Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex DEC 25 Issue
FAITH
CULTIVATING
JOY How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives
CROSS TRAINING FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH
Transforming Fitness Goals
PARK AND
to Help Save The Environment
Dr. Jerron Hill's Healing For The Soul Shows The Way WELLNESS IN MOTION WITH ACUPUNCTURE
Health Through a Holistic Approach to Dentistry
n Safe Mercury Removal (S.M.A.R.T. Certified by I.O.A.M.T.)
n Ozonated water in unit waterlines eliminates biofilm and neutralizes bacteria. Ozone also reduces sensitivity, treats deep cavities and more
n PRF -Your own growth factors accelerate healing
n LANAP® - non-invasive laser gum surgery means less discomfort
n Metal Free Crowns
n Zirconia (non-metal) dental implants
n Sleep Apnea Screening and Treatment
n CT Scanner on site for your convenience
n Digital Impressions eliminate gagging
n Biologic Root canals
ozone
ELiving on Purpose
ach December, I’m reminded of how deeply this season stirs the soul. It is a time of warmth, wonder and giving—and for many of us, a time of reflection. As the year draws to a close, we are given a unique opportunity to ask: How can I show up in the world in a way that positively impacts every space I enter? How can my individual interactions make a difference in the lives of those I encounter?
This month’s theme, Uplifting Humanity, invites us into this deeper inquiry. To uplift humanity is to recognize that every small act—done with love, purpose or grace—has the power to shift our collective spirit toward something better. It doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes it is simply choosing kindness in a stressful moment, listening more than speaking or showing compassion to someone who doesn’t expect it.
And the beauty of it? These choices do not drain us—they fill us. In fact, uplifting others is one of the surest paths to lasting joy. That joy, unlike fleeting pleasure, is rooted in connection, meaning and the awareness that we are part of something greater.
As always, I look to our instruction manual—the Bible—for clarity. In Philippians 2:4, Scripture reminds us, “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Matthew 22:39 tells us that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. We are called to a life of service and care—not as an obligation, but as a pathway to joy and healing for all.
Uplifting humanity starts close to home. At work, it may look like helping a colleague shine, giving credit where it is due or easing someone’s load without fanfare. At play, it means fostering inclusive spaces where joy and creativity flow freely—without judgment or competition. Within our families, it may be bringing peace to holiday gatherings, choosing forgiveness first or simply showing up fully present. In our communities, it means giving what we can—whether time, resources or encouragement—to those who need it most.
These acts of care ripple outward. When we lift up another person, we contribute to a culture of health—one that strengthens not only individual well-being, but the fabric of society itself. And that, I believe, is what healthy living is truly about. It is not just what we eat or how we move; it is how we live in relationship—with ourselves, with others and with the Earth.
That is why this issue feels especially meaningful. Our features explore the many ways we can live this calling in practical, grounded ways. You will find stories of people and organizations sowing seeds of joy across our region—through faith, service, innovation, healing work and generosity.
In this issue, you will also discover how joy itself can be an act of resistance and renewal. Choosing joy—especially when the world feels heavy—is a form of courage. It declares, “I will not be overcome by despair. I will contribute light.” Joy uplifts, inspires and binds us together.
So, this holiday season, I invite you to ask yourself not only what brings you joy—but what multiplies it for others. Where can your influence—your hands, your words, your prayers—lighten someone’s load? Where can your presence bring peace, encouragement or hope?
Because living on purpose is choosing joy. It does not require permission—only commitment. As always, we hope you will find much in this issue to support your journey toward living a healthy life on a healthy planet.
Wishing you a joyful, peaceful and purposeful holiday season.
Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Cover: Adobe Stock #546141585. The air is crisp and the smell of cinnamon wafts through the square. By dreamyart
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A Storybook Holiday at the Arboretum
Holiday at the Arboretum returns for the 2025 season at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, taking place now through January 4, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with special evening illumination experiences on select nights.
The 2025 theme, “A Storybook Christmas”, celebrates the magic of classic holiday tales brought to life through elegant design, interactive settings and immersive seasonal storytelling. Guests will experience the beloved 12 Days of Christmas outdoor gazebos, a charming Christmas Village inspired by 19th-century Europe and the return of Night Glow, transforming the gardens into a luminous winter landscape.
New this year are expanded themed photo vignettes, enhanced projection lighting along garden pathways and refreshed storytelling zones that invite visitors to step into scenes inspired by traditional holiday narratives. Seasonal culinary offerings, live performances and special family programming further enrich the experience.
Holiday at the Arboretum continues to be one of North Texas’ most elegant seasonal traditions, blending horticultural beauty, nostalgic charm and imaginative design for visitors of all ages.
Location: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas. For tickets and more information, call 214-515-6615 or visit DallasArboretum.org.
Holiday Lights at Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Christmas in the Garden (formerly Lightscape) returns to Fort Worth Botanic Garden for the 2025 holiday season, illuminating the landscape from November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026. Timed entries are offered nightly from 5:30 to 9 p.m., creating an immersive evening stroll through artistic light installations set among the garden’s winter beauty.
This year’s transformed experience debuts newly designed themed zones, including glowing botanical arches, interactive light sculptures and holiday vignettes inspired by nature and Texas heritage. Visitors can enjoy festive music, seasonal snacks and cozy photo moments throughout the trail. Select evenings also include special family programming and Santa appearances.
Blending art, nature and holiday tradition, Christmas in the Garden offers a peaceful and visually stunning way to celebrate the season outdoors.
Location: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. For tickets and more information, visit FortWorthBotanicGarden.org.
Holiday Magic Shines at Prairie Lights
Prairie Lights, the premier holiday light park in Texas, returns to Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake, in Grand Prairie, nightly from November 27 through December 31, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. This beloved seasonal attraction features more than four million lights illuminating a two-mile drive-through path, creating a dazzling holiday journey for all ages.
New for 2025 is an expanded walkthrough forest showcasing enhanced animated displays, immersive light choreography and newly designed illuminated landscapes that invite guests to slow down and explore. A redesigned LED light tunnel offers a vibrant visual centerpiece, while updated interactive photo zones provide memorable moments for families and holiday visitors.
Beyond the drive-through experience, Holiday Village awaits with family-friendly carnival rides, seasonal treats, Santa photo opportunities and festive shopping. These added attractions transform Prairie Lights into a full evening destination that blends tradition with modern holiday flair.
Celebrating more than 25 years as a North Texas holiday staple, Prairie Lights continues to evolve while preserving its timeless charm. Each season builds upon its legacy, offering new creative features that keep visitors returning year after year.
Location: 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie. For tickets and more information, call 972-237-4569 or visit PrairieLights.org.
Frisco Celebrates the Season at Christmas in the Square
Christmas in the Square returns to downtown Frisco with a festive display of more than 180,000 twinkling lights synchronized to 10 holiday songs, creating a joyful seasonal spectacle for families and visitors of all ages. The free event runs nightly through January 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Frisco Square.
Guests may enjoy the show as a drive-through experience by tuning their car radios to 107.3 FM or choose to stroll the square while music plays through outdoor speakers. New for this year is a dynamic color-changing canopy and expanded roof-edge lighting that enhances the immersive glow throughout the area.
Additional attractions bring extra holiday charm, including the Skate the Square outdoor ice rink, complete with skate rental, whimsical carriage rides, Santa visits and a walk-through light tunnel. These optional experiences add interactive fun while allowing visitors to customize their evening.
With its blend of music, lights and family-friendly entertainment, Christmas in the Square offers a cheerful, accessible way to celebrate the season in the heart of Frisco.
Location: Frisco Square, Main Street and Coleman Boulevard, Frisco. For more information, visit FriscoSquare.com/CITS-Overview.
Nature Inspired Holiday Evenings at the Heard
Holidays at the Heard returns to the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney for the 2025 season, taking place December 12–14 from 6 to 9 p.m. each evening.
This serene holiday experience invites guests to explore a softly illuminated half-mile nature trail featuring live entertainment, seasonal décor and peaceful woodland scenery designed to honor both the winter season and the natural environment. Visitors can enjoy visits with Santa, festive music, campfires with s’mores and family-friendly activities that encourage reflection, connection and shared celebration.
New for 2025 are expanded eco-friendly light installations, enhanced storytelling moments along the trail and additional nature-inspired interactive stations highlighting local wildlife and conservation themes. Guests can also look forward to refreshed artisan vendor offerings and immersive soundscapes that deepen the tranquil, nature-centered ambiance.
Distinct from large-scale commercial light shows, Holidays at the Heard emphasizes subtle beauty, sustainability and mindful celebration, making it a meaningful alternative for families seeking a calm, sensory-rich holiday experience rooted in nature.
Location: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Place, McKinney. For tickets and more information, call 972-562-5566 or visit HeardMuseum.org.
Holiday Classic Brings Seasonal Wonder to NorthPark Center
The beloved NorthPark Center Trains return for the 2025 holiday season, delighting families with one of Dallas’ most treasured traditions. Running from November 16, 2025 through January 5, 2026, the exhibit is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m., with extended hours during peak holiday weeks.
This year’s expanded layout features more than 1,600 feet of handcrafted track winding through a richly detailed miniature landscape that includes notable Dallas landmarks, festive villages, snow-kissed countryside scenes and whimsical holiday moments. New for 2025 are refreshed cityscapes with updated architectural details, enhanced lighting effects for greater nighttime ambiance, and newly added interactive viewing portals designed to spark curiosity and engage younger visitors.
Select dates will also feature special family-focused moments, including themed storytelling hours and holiday photo opportunities that add an extra layer of seasonal magic to the experience.
First debuted in 1987, the NorthPark Trains have become a cherished multigenerational tradition, blending artistry, engineering
and nostalgia. All proceeds benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, supporting families with seriously ill children during the holidays.
Location: NorthPark Center, 8687 North Central Expressway, Dallas. For more information, call 214-363-7441 or visit NorthParkCenter.com.
Garden Center & Landscaping
Serving Lake Highlands, Highland Park and North Dallas for over 35 Years
warranties
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Open seven days a week
Text START to (214) 974-5301 to begin receiving offers by text.
A Better Way to Get There: Smarter, Calmer and More ProductiveDART Park & Ride
As North Texans look toward a new year of healthier living, one simple yet powerful shift begins before the workday even starts: how we commute. Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s (DART) Park & Ride system offers a practical solution that supports personal wellness while helping reduce our region’s environmental footprint.
By parking at a designated DART lot and riding rail or bus for the remainder of the trip, commuters significantly cut down on single-occupancy vehicle use—one of the largest contributors to air pollution and traffic congestion across Dallas–Fort Worth. Fewer cars on the road translate to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower ozone levels and cleaner air for everyone. DART’s growing fleet of electric light rail vehicles and low-emission buses plays a direct role in improving regional air quality, advancing a vision of more breathable, sustainable communities.
Health and Lifestyle Perks
Many riders also enjoy gentle built-in movement—walking from parking areas to transit platforms—which contributes to improved circulation, joint mobility and daily activity. Over time, these small steps add up, supporting cardiovascular health and increased energy levels.
One of the most significant benefits is often overlooked: reclaimed productivity. Instead of wasting time behind the wheel, commuters can turn their travel time into focused work sessions. Whether answering emails,
Commute Consciously and Efficiently
DART Park & Ride Locations & Sample Travel Times
COLLIN COUNTY
Parker Road Station – Plano Red Line to Downtown Dallas Approx. 45–50 minutes to West End Station
Beyond its environmental impact, Park & Ride offers meaningful health benefits that align with holistic living. Removing yourself from daily stop-and-go traffic reduces stress, frustration and mental fatigue. Less time gripping the steering wheel and navigating congestion means lower levels of cortisol and tension, supporting emotional balance and sustained clarity throughout the day.
CityLine/Bush Station – Richardson Red Line to Uptown & Downtown Approx. 35–40 minutes to Akard Station
DENTON COUNTY
Trinity Mills Station – Carrollton Green Line to Downtown Dallas Approx. 40–45 minutes to Pearl/Arts District
ROCKWALL COUNTY
Downtown Rowlett Station Blue Line to Dallas Core Approx. 45–55 minutes to Mockingbird Station
TARRANT COUNTY (via TRE Connection)
CentrePort / DFW Airport Station TRE + DART integration Approx. 50–60 minutes to Victory Station
Rider Tip
Most DART Park & Ride lots are free for transit users and offer abundant parking. Use the GoPass® app to plan routes, track real-time arrivals and check exact commute times before you travel.
preparing reports, organizing schedules or reviewing presentations, the ability to use a laptop or mobile device onboard allows riders to maximize efficiency and arrive more organized and composed. This shift not only supports professional performance but also creates more personal time in the evening—enhancing work-life balance and overall wellbeing.
Realistic Commute Times
Commute times will vary based on departure point and destination, but many riders experience efficient and predictable travel windows. Typical Park & Ride transit commutes into central Dallas range between 30 and 50 minutes for the rail portion—often comparable or even faster than driving during peak congestion. When factoring in reduced stress, productive time and consistent scheduling, the overall value becomes even more compelling.
A Small Change with Big Impact
DART Park & Ride represents a practical step toward healthier living that benefits individuals, families and the broader community. By reducing emissions, encouraging movement, lowering commuting stress and reclaiming valuable time, it transforms an everyday routine into an act of self-care and environmental stewardship.
For those committed to healthy, conscious, sustainable choices, adopting Park & Ride is a tangible way to support both personal vitality and a cleaner North Texas—one commute at a time.
For more information visit DART.org/guide
Doctors Rowell and Kozlow
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.
Coming in January
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.
Kissing Bug Disease Spreads Across 32 States
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared Chagas disease endemic to the United States, meaning that it is consistently present in the country. The disease is transmitted to humans and animals, including cats and dogs, through the feces of blood-sucking kissing bugs. After biting its victim, the bug’s feces deposit the parasite that causes the disease.
The CDC reports that kissing bugs are native to the Southern U.S., but they have been found in 32 states. Chagas disease, which may initially show no symptoms, is a potentially fatal illness that can lead to chronic conditions such as heart failure, an enlarged heart or an enlarged colon. The CDC’s endemic declaration should increase
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.
awareness of Chagas disease among doctors and veterinarians, leading to more diagnoses and reporting. The declaration also paves the way for more research investment into improved diagnostics, treatments and prevention.
mscornelius from Getty Images/CanvaPro
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.
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,
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.
marine technology transfer and environmental-impact assessment of oceanic activities.
Human Artifacts Found in Vulture Nests
In a study published in the journal Ecology, archaeologists report the discovery of more than 200 human artifacts in the nests of bearded vultures. The scientists rappelled down cliffs to 12 abandoned nests of these bone-eating raptors, which vanished from the cliffs a century ago. Only 308 breeding pairs remain in Europe.
Bearded vultures build and maintain nests for long periods, sometimes for centuries, resulting in thick structures made of a variety of materials, including branches and bones. The scientists found well-preserved human items that were 150 to 675 years old, including leather items, fabric fragments, tools, a crossbow bolt and a slingshot. The most surprising discovery was a sandal made from woven esparto grass believed to be between 650 and 750 years old. The cool, dry conditions in the cliff caves preserved the artifacts.
Deforestation Dulls Butterfly Colors
Scientists in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest have found that butterflies are losing their color. This research is part of a study on the discoloration or alteration of color in the natural world caused by human-driven environmental changes. The earliest known instance of such a change was during the Industrial Revolution, when the peppered moth turned black to blend into its sooty surroundings.
In Brazil, scientists observed a stark difference between butterflies in the rainforest and those in deforested areas. The rainforest is home to a wide array of colorful butterflies, whereas those in deforested regions are brown or grey. In eucalyptus plantations that have replaced the rainforest, dull-looking butterflies thrive. Deforestation impacts the most colorful species first, as the loss of vegetation makes them more vulnerable to predators. Without the protection of natural habitats, the most colorful and ecologically special species could be lost.
David O'Brien from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Cátia Matos from Pexels/CanvaPro
Dr. Jerron Hill
on Healing the Brain, Strengthening the Spirit and Uplifting Humanity
by Myra Hedgefield
Dr. Jerron Hill is a board-certified anesthesiologist and founder of Ketamine Health & Wellness Center of Texas in Plano, Dr. CBD in University Park and HillMed. His work blends ketamine therapy with integrative wellness and faith-based compassion to help patients with depression, PTSD and chronic pain find renewed hope, healing and purpose. He is also the author of Healing for the Soul, a collection of contemporary Christian poetry inspired by spiritual reflection and divine guidance.
What catalyzed your shift toward ketamine therapy and integrative wellness?
I became interested after reading an article titled “Anesthesiologists Take Lead As Ketamine Clinics Proliferate.” Although I didn’t give it much thought at first, I soon realized I could help patients with depression because of my experience using ketamine in the operating room and working in a pain clinic at Harrington Memorial Hospital in Southbridge, Massachusetts.
I initially talked myself out of opening a ketamine clinic, but my wife encouraged me to pursue it. I began researching and took an online course in IV vitamin nutrition, which
highlighted how little medical schools integrate nutrition into healthcare. My oldest daughter also encouraged me to incorporate IV therapy alongside IV ketamine after sharing her experiences with wellness clinics in Los Angeles.
I named my clinic Ketamine Health & Wellness Center of Texas. My education in wellness helped me understand the value of holistic and integrative medicine in supporting sustainable results. To me, wellness includes stress management, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and sleep — principles that benefit everyone, not just those with mood disorders.
What does whole-person care look like in your practice?
During initial consultations, I explain that ketamine plus wellness equals sustainability. Science supports a multimodal approach when treating depression, anxiety and PTSD. Ketamine heals the brain by stimulating new neuron growth and increasing levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which improves mood. However, treatment is incomplete without addressing the emotional pain many people carry.
My approach also encourages reflection, education and personal growth as part of the healing journey.
How did becoming an author influence your outlook as a physician?
I never planned to write a book. My purpose as a Christian is to share the good news about Christ and His free gift of salvation. After a dream in which I saw myself writing poetry, I awoke knowing God wanted me to write. That weekend, I wrote eleven poems and continued from there.
Writing poetry did not change my role as a physician, but gave me a platform to share God’s love through contemporary verse that speaks to modern challenges and spiritual restoration.
Can you share a patient story of renewed hope?
One of my patients suffers from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), causing severe nerve pain in her arms and hands. Before IV ketamine therapy, she made
Dr. Jerron Hill
frequent emergency room visits and even contemplated suicide. Conventional treatments failed, but after beginning ketamine therapy and a supportive aftercare plan, her quality of life changed dramatically.
She is now able to function, enjoy gardening and perform daily activities without excruciating pain. Her hope was restored, and she thanked God for connecting us.
What does “uplifting humanity” mean to you?
Uplifting humanity is about helping people through service, prayer and compassion. I love encouraging people through prayer and sharing God’s Word, which transforms hearts, outlooks and circumstances. Sometimes I am bold, other times subtle, but consistency in caring for others is essential.
What is your hope for the future of medicine?
I believe prevention is better than cure. Modern medicine must embrace wellness-focused, integrative approaches that include nutrition, sleep, movement, stress management and mindfulness. These practices are supported by science and can significantly reduce disease and healthcare costs.
I hope to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference by uplifting humanity through healing, faith and service.
Myra Hedgefield is Staff Writer for Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex Magazine
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H E A R T H E A L T H I V H E A R T H E A L T H I V
O u r h e a l t h y h e a r t d r i p i s i n t e n d e d f o r b o l s t e r i n g t h e h e a r t
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l o w e r i n g u n w a n t e d , h i g h c h o l e s t e r o l l e v e l s , h i g h b l o o d
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a n d s t r o k e I f a t a l l p o s s i b l e , t h e o b j e c t i v e o f o u r h e a l t h y
h e a r t i n f u s i o n i s t o m i t i g
2455 Ridge Rd, Ste 151, Rockwall
Healing Together:
How Beachside Community Acupuncture Restores Balance, Calm and Connection
By Myra Hedgefield
In a world that often feels fast, fractured and overwhelming, Beachside Community Acupuncture in McKinney offers something quietly powerful: a shared space where healing unfolds collectively, gently and accessibly. Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this clinic redefines whole-person care by addressing not only symptoms, but the underlying imbalances affecting physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
“Acupuncture is the best-known therapy within Traditional Chinese Medicine, an ancient system that views all aspects of health as interconnected,” says Kathleen Ketola, owner and founder of Beachside Community Acupuncture. “By stimulating specific points on the body, we help restore balance and flow, allowing the body to heal itself rather than simply chasing symptoms.”
From a TCM perspective, health depends on the smooth circulation of the body’s core substances. When that flow is disrupted, fatigue, pain and emotional distress can follow. Acupuncture gently corrects these disharmonies while easing immediate discomfort, creating both short-term relief and long-term restoration.
Modern science increasingly supports what ancient practitioners long understood. Research shows acupuncture guides the body into a “rest and digest” state — the opposite of chronic “fight or flight” stress. This shift supports emotional regulation, improves sleep and digestion, and calms symptoms associated with anxiety and burnout. Increased circulation also contributes to pain relief and can benefit other conditions, including infertility.
“What we often see is that acupuncture becomes the missing puzzle piece in
Kathleen Ketola
someone’s health journey,” Ketola shares. “It doesn’t just treat one issue—it supports the body as a whole, helping people feel more grounded, resilient and like themselves again.”
What distinguishes Beachside is its community acupuncture model. Patients receive treatments in a shared, calming space, reclining in comfortable chairs where they may nap, meditate, journal or simply rest. While conversation is limited during sessions, the atmosphere fosters quiet connection and reassurance.
“Even without speaking, there’s comfort in knowing you’re not alone,” Ketola explains. “There’s a subtle solidarity that forms when people heal side-by-side.”
Affordability is central to this approach. Through a sliding-scale fee structure, patients pay what they can within a set range, making holistic care more accessible without compromising the quality or length of treatment. This allows for more consistent care with less financial strain, helping people integrate acupuncture more sustainably into their lives.
As clients commit to regular treatment, meaningful shifts often occur. Many report improved energy, deeper sleep, clearer moods and renewed motivation—even when treatment is focused on a specific concern.
“The body is designed to feel good,” says Ketola. “When it’s been out of balance for too long, people forget how vibrant they can feel. Watching that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.”
As North Texans look toward 2026 with renewed intention, Ketola encourages a realistic, compassionate approach to wellness. “Health isn’t all-or-nothing,” she notes. “Even five minutes of movement or two minutes of deep breathing makes a difference. Start small. Let good habits grow naturally. True health is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Myra Hedgefield is Staff Writer for Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex Magazine.
Beachside Community Acupuncture is located at 1402 South Custer Road, Suite 703, McKinney, TX 75072. For more information, visit BeachsideAcupuncture. com or call 214-417-2260. See ad, page 17.
Finding Joy From Within, Not Chasing It
by Karoline Matthews
In a world that rarely slows down, joy can begin to feel like something just out of reach—a reward to be earned after problems are solved or life finally feels “settled.” But for Debra Rossi, joy isn’t a destination. It is an inner state that becomes accessible when we release the beliefs that keep us disconnected from our true selves.
Rossi is a personal life coach whose work centers on mindset transformation through what she calls the Mindset for Success program, a method that integrates spirituality and brain-based principles to help clients move beyond limiting beliefs.
“My business is instrumental in helping my clients transform their minds,” Rossi explains. “It is specifically designed to help people change old, negative ways of thinking and replace those limiting thought patterns with new positive thoughts and beliefs.”
Through her coaching, Rossi supports individuals who feel stuck in self-doubt, overthinking, emotional fatigue and unrealistic self-expectations. These internal narratives often sound like “I’m not enough” or “I have to earn happiness”—patterns that quietly shape how people show up in their relationships, careers and sense of self. Her approach focuses on shifting those internal patterns by guiding clients into greater awareness, self-compassion and alignment. “Mindset for Success is a blend of Neuroscience, Spirituality and Psychology,” she shares. “When you move your thinking beyond your limiting beliefs you become comfortable with your innate gifts.”
What unfolds through this work is not forced positivity, but a grounded reconnection with one’s authentic self. Clients often experience
renewed clarity, emotional freedom and an expanded sense of purpose. One of the core outcomes Rossi aims to support is the return to inner joy—not as something fleeting, but as a sustainable state of being.
“Neuroscience reveals the neural pathways in your brain. You can reprogram your brain, break free of limiting beliefs that keep you stuck, and remove old thought patterns that weigh you down,” Rossi notes.
Rossi believes joy is a natural extension of
healing. When individuals soften their selfjudgment and reconnect with who they truly are, their light naturally expands outward into their families, communities and the greater world.
Her guiding philosophy reflects that belief: “Surrender into the process of personal transformation. Live life being the strongest version of your best self.”
In this unfolding journey, joy is no longer something to chase. It becomes something to inhabit—emerging organically from a life lived in awareness, truth and alignment.
Myra Hedgefield is Staff Writer for Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex Magazine.
Debra Rossi is a Dallas-based personal life coach and creator of the Mindset for Success program, a transformational coaching approach that blends spirituality with brainbased mindset work to help individuals release limiting beliefs and reconnect with their authentic selves. For more information, visit DebraRossi.com. See ad, page 19.
Debra Rossi
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 de-
signed 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.
Exercises To Expand Our Gratitude
by Hannah Tytus
Gratitude is an important part of joy because it helps us savor life and recognize that much of our good fortune comes from others, including those that have made it possible for us to be ourselves.
Saying Thanks at Mealtime: According to the Dalai Lama in The Book of Joy, even the act of eating a vegetable dish can become a communal experience. Hold gratitude for the seed in the earth, the sunlight and rain that nurtured it, the hands that tended and harvested the plant, the people that transported it to the local market or restaurant, and those that prepared the meal or taught us to cook.
Writing Down the Blessings: This daily practice is suggested by Jennifer Joy Jiménez, founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & Well-Being Division. With eyes closed, recall three items from the day for which to be grateful— from a friend’s kindness to the bounty of a good meal or the pleasant aroma in the air. Record these items in a journal, aiming to add three new items each day.
gustavofrazao from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Hamdi Kandi from Hamdi Kandi Studio/CanvaPro
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.
From Dallas to the World:
Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s New Book Inspires Stronger, Longer Living
by Karoline Matthews
As the holiday season fills calendars and energy levels wane, healthy routines often slip aside. But Dallas-based wellness pioneer Dr. Kenneth Cooper offers an empowering reminder: creating lasting health doesn’t require extreme resolutions—only small, intentional choices practiced consistently.
Dr. Cooper, internationally known as the “Father of Aerobics” and a longtime Dallas resident, has spent more than five decades transforming how the world views fitness, preventive medicine and longevity. Now at age 94, he continues his mission through his newly released 20th book, Grow Healthier as You Grow Older, a practical and personal guide to achieving better health, improved vitality and extended lifespan.
Though his influence spans the globe, Cooper’s work is deeply rooted in North Texas. Since founding the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas in 1970, he has built one of the world’s most respected preventive health institutions, shaping global standards in fitness while serving the local community he calls home.
Central to Cooper’s philosophy is “Getting Cooperized”—a set of eight realistic guidelines that encourage individuals to take responsibility for their health and make progress without feeling overwhelmed. These steps include exercising most days of the week, making healthy food choices, maintaining a healthy
weight, taking appropriate supplements, scheduling regular physical exams, managing stress and prioritizing sleep, avoiding tobacco and moderating alcohol.
Rather than advocating dramatic lifestyle changes, Cooper recommends starting with just one step. This approach allows individuals to move into the new year feeling supported rather than pressured, making healthier living both achievable and sustainable.
At the core of Cooper’s message is prevention. “It’s a whole lot cheaper and more effective to prevent disease than to find a cure,” he explains. He urges people to recognize that many of the most powerful health factors–
including movement, nutrition and lifestyle habits—are within their control.
Cooper also highlights the critical role of cardiovascular fitness. While strength training and relaxation practices are beneficial, only consistent cardiovascular exercise has been scientifically proven to significantly extend lifespan and reduce chronic disease risk. Even modest improvements, such as moving from inactivity to 30 minutes of exercise most days, can dramatically enhance energy, heart health and quality of life.
In Grow Healthier as You Grow Older, Cooper blends decades of research with personal insight, offering readers what he calls a strategy to “square off the curve”— maintaining strong health until the later years rather than enduring prolonged decline. The book also reflects on his remarkable career, which includes developing the Aerobics Point System, partnering with NASA on astronaut conditioning programs, and pioneering early diagnostic tools such as the treadmill stress test. His research legacy includes the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study, one of the most extensive fitness studies in the world, and youth wellness initiatives like FitnessGram and NFL PLAY60. Recently inducted into the Health & Fitness Association Hall of Fame, Dr. Cooper remains a living example of the principles he teaches.
For more information visit CooperAerobics.com.
Karoline Matthews is wellness advocate, researcher and writer for Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex Magazine.
Dr. Kenneth Cooper
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: kali9 from Getty
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 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 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 po-
tassium, 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, pa-
per-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.
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.
Stefan
Botezatu's Images/CanvaPro
POMEGRANATE PICKLED FISH
This gourmet holiday dish is ideal for a dinner party.
YIELD: 8 SERVINGS
3½ lbs yellowtail fish, skinned
6½ oz vegetable oil
3½ lbs sliced onions
1 Tbsp garam masala
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
4 whole cloves
4 to 5 bay leaves
¾ cup, combined, equal amounts of dried apricots and sultanas (golden raisins)
2 cup white or red wine (red wine gives fish a deeper color)
½ Tbsp coarse salt
5 Tbsp white wine vinegar
2 Tbsp brown sugar
Seeds of 1 large pomegranate
FOR HOMEMADE LIME MAYO
5 large egg yolks
1 Tbsp English mustard Juice of two limes
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
Zest from one lime
1½ cups sunflower oil
1 tsp salt
Place fish in a baking dish, allowing space for sauce.
Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or a flat wide pot. Add onions, cover and sauté at low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become sweet.
Stir in garam masala, fennel, coriander, peppercorns, cloves and bay leaves. Turn heat up to medium and fry for 30 seconds to temper the spice, and then add the apricots, sultanas, wine and salt. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
Remove pan from heat and stir in the vinegar and sugar until well incorporated into the sauce. Pour sauce over the fish. Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove dish from oven, let it cool completely and then refrigerate for at least a day.
Add all the lime mayo ingredients into a bowl, except for the sunflower oil. Slowly add the oil while whisking the ingredients vigorously. When all the oil is added, the mix should be velvety smooth and be able to hold its own shape. Store in the refrigerator.
Serve cold fish on a salad with homemade lime mayo. Garnish with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.
Recipe courtesy of Craig Cormack.
GenAI/CanvaPro
Uplifting Humanity Through the Simple Gift of Healthy Food
By Carol Murray
As families across North Texas gather to celebrate the season, food often forms the heart of cherished traditions. Yet for many households, the rising cost of groceries can transform those moments into a source of quiet stress. Through its annual Gratitude & Giving program, Texas Health Community Hope is helping ensure that holiday meals remain a time of connection, dignity and nourishment for thousands of families.
This November and December, the initiative is distributing more than 153,000 pounds of fresh produce and healthy resources to over 5,000 individuals at 48 school and community-based locations throughout the region. The program reflects Texas Health’s broader commitment to promoting healthier futures through meaningful community partnerships, strategic investments and compassionate outreach.
Participants receive seasonal fruits and vegetables such as collard greens, sweet potatoes, onions, squash, spinach, grapes and apples, along with practical tools that make meal preparation more manageable. Cutting boards, oven mitts, measuring spoons and seasonal recipes empower families to transform fresh ingredients into wholesome meals that support both physical wellness and shared connection.
“More families are struggling this year, whether it be from job losses or economic hardships,” says Matt Dufrene, vice president of Healthy People, Healthy Communities for Texas Health Community Hope. “The Gratitude & Giving program is designed to lessen that burden and help
families celebrate the holiday season with nutritious food.”
At the Atatiana Carr-Jefferson Community Center in Fort Worth, the program has become a deeply anticipated tradition. Community center aide Octavian Davis observes the dedication of those who rely on it.
“They will call, email or send someone if they can’t make it,” Davis shares. “Some even move appointments. That shows how
seriously our community takes its health and how meaningful this program is to them.”
Gratitude & Giving is one element of Texas Health’s broader strategy to strengthen nutrition security throughout North Texas. Additional initiatives include 21 Good For You Healthy Hub locations offering access to free produce and resources, along with the Double Up Food Bucks program, which allows individuals using SNAP benefits to double their purchasing power for fresh fruits and vegetables at participating locations. Texas Health also supports urban farmers and oversees learning garden programs at more than 40 area schools, further deepening its investment in long-term community wellness.
“Our goal is to improve the well-being of our community by helping families put healthy food on the table,” Dufrene adds. “It’s truly rewarding to know that we are also helping them create meaningful holiday memories as they enjoy those meals together.”
Through these layered efforts, Texas Health Community Hope continues to demonstrate how thoughtful, community-centered programs can transform seasonal challenges into moments of resilience, nourishment and shared humanity—reminding us that the simple act of giving healthy food can uplift lives in lasting ways.
For more information about Texas Health Community Hope programs, visit TexasHealth.org.
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.
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.
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Monday, December 1
Book Club – Dallas Meditation Center –7–8:30pm. Mindfulness-focused discussion group exploring spiritual, personal growth and wellness-oriented books in a relaxed sangha setting. Dallas Meditation Center, 810 W Arapaho Rd, Ste 98, Richardson. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com
Tuesday, December 2
Constellation of Living Memorials: Symposium – 2:30–9pm. Conservation, education, public policy and community leaders reimagining historic cemeteries as living memorials blending remembrance, biodiversity and civic pride. Includes film screening, panels, collaborative sessions, building tour and closing reception. $45 partner-organization members, $55 non-members. Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center, 17360 Coit Rd, Dallas. ConstellationOfLivingMemorials.org
Wednesday, December 3
Dallas College Sustainability Summit – 8am–3pm. “One Person, One Action, One Future” summit with workshops on renewable energy, zero-waste living, urban gardening and sustainability leadership. Breakfast and lunch included with registration. Dallas College Cedar Valley Campus, 3030 N Dallas Ave, Lancaster. 972-669-6400. DallasCollege.edu
Five Mindfulness Trainings Recitation – 7–8:30pm. Guided meditation and recitation in the Plum Village tradition with Dharma sharing and reflection on ethical living. Dallas Meditation Center, Richardson. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com
Native Plant Society of Texas, North Central Chapter Holiday Party – 6:30–8:30pm. Catered holiday celebration with games, prizes and time to mingle with fellow native-plant enthusiasts. Membership required; RSVP requested. Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Oak Hall, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth. 817673-9542. NPSOT.org/North-Central Holiday Dinner at the Arboretum –6–9pm. Festive evening featuring holiday dinner with evening access to the Christmas Village and illuminated gardens. Advance reservations required. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214515-6615. DallasArboretum.org
Thursday, December 4
Mindful Grief Support Group –6–8:30pm. Compassionate mindful-
ness-based circle for those navigating loss, blending meditation, gentle practices and community support. Dallas Meditation Center, Richardson. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com
Friday, December 5
Fate Christmas Tree Lighting – 6–9pm. Family-friendly holiday celebration with Polar Express train rides, reindeer games, crafts, hot cocoa, live performances and photos with Santa. Fate City Hall, 1900 C D Boren Pkwy, Fate. 972-771-4601. FateTX.gov/513/Christmas-Tree-Lighting
Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Black on Black – 6:30–11:30pm. Cabaret-style performance featuring premiere works by company dancers, followed by an after-party. Ticketed event; pricing varies. DBDT Studios, 2700 Ann Williams Way, Dallas. 214-871-2376. DBDT.com
GRYSmas 2025 –7:30–9:30pm. 3rd Annual Greater Rockwall Youth Symphony holiday spectacular with full orchestra and chamber music, carol sing-alongs, ugly sweater contest and hot cocoa bar. – Cavender Nissan of Rockwall. Rockwall. GreaterRockwallYouthSymphony.org
Saturday, December 6
Breakfast With Santa – Dallas Arboretum – 9–11am. Festive breakfast buffet with Santa, crafts, music and photo opportunity, followed by time in Christmas Village and winter gardens. $39; children under 2 free. Dallas Arboretum, Rosine Hall, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214-5156615. DallasArboretum.org
Equest Holiday Open House – 12–2pm. Family-friendly afternoon with photos with Santa and miniature therapy horses, holiday crafts, refreshments and program tours. Free; RSVP appreciated. Equest, 811 Pemberton Hill Rd, Bldg 4, Dallas. 972-412-1099. Equest.org
4th Annual Christmas on the Farm –
4pm. Christmas celebration with snowball fight area, local vendors and food trucks in a farm setting. Summerfield at Tate Farms. 12992 S FM 548 Rockwall. TateFarms.net/Events
Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Black on Black – 6:30–11:30pm. Second evening showcasing original choreography and immersive studio performance. Ticketed event; pricing varies. DBDT Studios, Dallas. 214-871-2376. DBDT.com
Sunday, December 7
Breakfast With Santa Spectacular – NorthPark Center – 9–11am. Catered
breakfast, visit and photos with NorthPark Santa, entertainment and children’s activities benefiting Children’s Health. $150. NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas. 214-456-8360. Childrens. com/BreakfastWithSanta
Deck the Docks – A Holiday Dance Cardio Class–2–3pm. Free, 60-minute holiday-themed dance cardio class for all fitness levels. The 501 – The Yacht Club. 501 Yacht Club Dr. Rockwall. 469-769-1148. 501YachtClub.com
Dallas Sierra Club Holiday Party –6–8pm. Year-end gathering with raffle and recognition of volunteers; attendees purchase their own meals and beverages. El Fenix, Casa Linda Plaza, 1150 N Buckner Blvd, Dallas. DallasSierraClub.org
All Sangha Dinner – 7:30–9pm. Community potluck dinner for Dallas Meditation Center participants. Dallas Meditation Center, Richardson. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com
Thursday, December 11
Gentle Floor Yoga + Evening Meditation – 7–8pm. Gentle floor-based yoga followed by guided meditation. Free with City of Dallas recreation membership. Kidd Springs Recreation Center, 711 W Canty St, Dallas. 214-670-7535. DallasParks.org
Saturday, December 13
Rowlett Holiday 5K & Fun Run –8am. Family-friendly 5K run and fun walk encouraging fitness and community participation; medals awarded to finishers. 4700 President George Bush Hwy Rowlett. Rowlett High School. RunSignUp. com/Race/TX/Rowlett/RowlettCommunityK
Christmas in the Garden –9am–5pm. Final seasonal event with vendors, festive shopping, photo opportunities with Santa & Mrs. Claus and themed coffee bar. Honey Locust Farms. .Rockwall. HoneyLocustFarms.org
Fate’s Live Nativity –6–7:30pm. Live reenactment of the Christmas story with animals, crafts, photos with Santa, cookies and hot cocoa. First Fate Church. 813 W Holiday Dr. Fate. FirstFateChurch.com
Wednesday, December 17
Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club Holiday Party – 6–9pm. End-of-year social with light appetizers and celebration of conservation achievements. Old Texas Brewing Company, 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Ste
200, Fort Worth. SierraClub.org/Texas/ Greater-Fort-Worth
Friday, December 19
Breakfast With Santa – Dallas Arboretum – 9–11am. Festive breakfast buffet with Santa, crafts, music and garden access. $39; children under 2 free. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214515-6615. DallasArboretum.org
Saturday, December 20
Helping Hands Distribution Day –8am–4pm. Volunteer opportunity supporting Toys for Tots through local toy distribution for families in need. 1050 Williams St. Rockwall. 972-772-8194. RockwallHelpingHands.com
Saturday–Sunday, December 20–21
Breakfast With Santa – Dallas Arboretum – 9–11am. Final weekend of holiday breakfast experience with Santa, crafts and winter garden access. $39; children under 2 free. Dallas Arboretum, Dallas. 214-515-6615. DallasArboretum.org
Saturday, December 27
Fund Run –8am. Annual untimed community fund run including event T-shirt and finisher medal; promotes fitness while raising funds for local causes. Harry Myers Park.815 E Washington St. Rockwall. $25. 972-771-7740. RunSignUp.com/ Race/TX/Rockwall/FundRun
Tuesday, December 30
Arachnophilia Enrichment Class –10–12pm. Children ages 5–10 learn about arachnid characteristics with a visit to The Art & Science of Arachnids exhibit. $25. River Legacy Nature Center, 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington. 817-860-6752 ext. 105. Ellen@RiverLegacy.org. RiverLegacy.org
Tuesday–Wednesday, December 30–31
Lights All Night 2025 – Doors 5–6pm, music into late night. Two-day electronic music festival featuring national DJs and immersive visual production. Ages 18+. Tickets start at $275. Dallas Market Hall, 2200 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas. LightsAllNight.com
Tuesday, December 2
Mindful Moments: The Recharge Series – Sound Bath – 12–12:20pm. 20-minute midday reset using sound healing and mindfulness practices to support stress relief. Free. Blagg-Huey Library Wellbeing Room, 3rd Floor, 307 Administration Dr, Denton. 940-898-3845. Events. TWU.edu
Thursday, December 4
Live Green and Be Merry – 6–8pm. Eco-inspired holiday evening with garden mocktails, repurposed art projects, green gift ideas and tips for sustainable holiday living. Free; registration required. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano Pkwy, Plano.
Friday, December 5
Dashing Through the District: Holiday Market – 5–8pm. Festive night market featuring curated vendors, seasonal treats and unique gifts. PGA District, 3255 PGA Pkwy, Frisco. PGAFrisco.com
Saturday, December 6
Winter Waterways Cleanup – 9–11am. Volunteer litter cleanup of Plano waterways; all supplies provided. Choose from multiple park locations. Free; registration required. Plano.
Run Run Rudolph 5K & Fun Run – 7:45–10:30am. Holiday-themed 5K and family fun run benefiting St. Mary’s Catholic School. $25 pre-registration. 727 S Travis St, Sherman. RunRunRudolph5K.com
Fitness Classes – Kaleidoscope Park –10–11am. Free outdoor workout session for all levels. 6635 Warren Pkwy, Frisco. 214-346-5531. KaleidoscopePark.org
City of Sherman Christmas Parade –Winter Wonderland – 6pm. Annual holiday parade featuring festive floats and community groups. Downtown Sherman. Free. ci.sherman.tx.us
Sunday, December 7
2025 Holiday Ramble Pie Ride – 9am–3pm. Gravel cycling event with 35-, 50- and 75-mile routes through Cooke County. $54. 3654 Co Rd 318, Gainesville. BikeSignup.com
Monday, December 8
BIO BREAK FRISCO – 5–7pm. Year-end networking happy hour for North Texas life science professionals. Sidecar Social, 6770 Winning Dr, Frisco. BioNTX.org
Friday–Sunday, December 12–14
Holidays at the Heard – 6–9pm. Lighted nature trail, photos with Father Christmas, children’s activities and seasonal refreshments. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org
Saturday, December 13
Holiday Tour of Homes – 1–8pm. Self-guided tour of decorated historic homes supporting preservation efforts. Tickets from $35. Chestnut Square Heritage Village, McKinney. ChestnutSquare. org
Moo-ving the Love: Community Food Distribution – 8:30–9:30am. Monthly drive-through distribution of milk and pantry staples for Collin County families. Free; pre-registration encouraged. 402 E Louisiana St, McKinney. AboveAllThings. org
Downtown Gainesville Farmers Market – 9am–1pm. Open-air market featuring local produce and artisan goods. Gainesville Farmers Market, 215 W Elm St, Gainesville. 940-668-4530. Gainesville. tx.us
Second Saturday Nature Series: Obstacles to Environmental Progress – 10am. Educational program exploring barriers to environmental solutions. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, Sherman. FriendsOfHagerman.com
Candle Making Workshop – 6–7:30pm. Hands-on workshop creating two custom candles using reclaimed vessels and fragrance blending techniques. $50. The DIME Store, 118 E McKinney St, Denton. Dimehandmade.com
Sunday, December 14
Krugerville Holiday Market – 10am–2pm. Outdoor artisan market with food trucks and family activities. Woodland Park, 5220 US-377 S, Krugerville. AllEvents.in
Bhuta Shuddhi – Elemental Purification Practice – 2–3:30pm. Classical yogic process for holistic wellbeing; ages 14+. Hilton
Garden Inn Dallas/Allen, 705 Central Expy S, Allen. Online.InnerEngineering.com
Meet the Meadow Trail Walk – 2–4pm. Guided nature walk exploring restored native habitat. Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve Hedgcoxe & Greensboro Dr, Allen/ Plano border. ConnemaraConservancy.org
Friday–Monday, December 19–22
Christmas JoyPark – 5–10pm. Outdoor Christmas festival with nativity, light displays, rides and music. $15 youth; $20 adults. 1515 N Greenville Ave, Allen. ChristmasJoyPark.com
Saturday, December 20
Valley View Reindeer Games & 5K Reindeer Run – 9am. Holiday race and festival with family activities. $35 (5K); $15 (Little Run). 700 S Lee St, Valley View.
Sunday, December 21
Chanukah Menorah Lighting – Kaleidoscope Park – 3–4pm. Community menorah lighting with music and activities. 6635 Warren Pkwy, Frisco. KaleidoscopePark.org
Monday–Tuesday, December 22–23
The Nutcracker – Collin County Ballet Theatre – 7:30pm. Full-length holiday ballet performance. $37–$107. 2351 Performance Dr, Richardson. CollinCountyBalletTheatre.com
Tuesday, December 23
Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl – 8pm. NCAA postseason football game featuring two Division I teams. Toyota Stadium, Frisco. TheFriscoBowl.com
PASS US AROUND
community resource guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email NAadvertising@NaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.
ALTERNATIVE WELLNESS VENUES
THE KAVA BARS
14856 Preston Rd #212, Dallas 469-608-5050
109 Industrial St, Denton 940-320-6015
LoveTheKavaBar.com
nights, and special events that make every visit unique. Exerience a different kind of Happy Hour.
BRAIN HEALTH
CERESET PLANO
1033 E 15th St, Plano, 75074 214-892-2273
Plano.Cereset.com
abling it to manage stress more effectively. Cereset sessions jump start the process of re-balancing your brain, and can help issues leading to trouble sleeping, restlessness and anxiety, inability to fo cus or lack of joy. Periodic “tune-ups” provide ongoing support, ensuring long-term brain bal ance.
ECO TOURISM
FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER 2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose 254-897-2960
CHIROPRACTIC
NEW STAR CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
Dr. Zhangping Lu, DC, LAc, MD (China) 425 Maplelawn Dr, Ste 101, Plano 75075 972-519-8488
DFWAcupunctureChiropractic.com
Whole-body wellness center providing chiropractic care, spinal decompression, allergy testing, NAET, IMAET, detoxification, weight loss, hormone balancing, wellness programs and more. All-natural healing, no medication, no surgery.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, near Glen Rose, an hour and a half from DFW, is a non-profit conservation center. It’s a haven for endangered species, housing over 1,000 animals from 50 species. Visitors embark on guided or self-guided tours across its 1,800 acres, encountering wildlife up close. Lodging, dining, and educational facilities enhance the experience.
There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.
—Bernard Meltzer
EDUCATION
DALLAS COLLEGE
1601 South Lamar, Dallas 214-378-1824
DCCCD.edu
Dallas College has seven campuses, including El Centro, Brookhaven, Mountain View, Eastfield, Richland, Cedar Valley and Northlake. Dallas College serves the region with accredited one and two year certificates, degrees and core credit courses guaranteed to transfer to Texas colleges and universities.
1984
THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL
11600 Welch Road, Dallas 214- 363-6311
Hockaday.org
Established almost 100 years ago, The Hockaday School provides a college preparatory educa-tion for girls; from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade, including Boarding school for grades 8-12. With an approximate enrollment of 1,000 students and a 10:1 student teacher ratio, Hockaday students enjoy a 100% acceptance rate to college.
GLEN ROSE, TEXAS
JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY
SCHOOL OF DALLAS
12345 Inwood Rd, Dallas 972-387-8700
JesuitCP.org
Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas is a private Catholic institution for young men under the direction of the Society of Jesus. Located in North Dallas, it provides a student-centered education to approximately 1,000 students, grades 9-12. Our students’ average SAT scores exceed the national average by over 200 points.
PARKER UNIVERSITY
2540 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas 75229 800-637-8337/214-902-2429
AskAdmissions@parker.edu Parker.edu
More patients want alternative methods of treatment that are healthy, holistic and non-invasive. Earning your degree from Parker University in Functional Nutrition, Strength and Human Performance, Integrative Health can put you in position to help them. Offering top level experience and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Council on Chiropractic Education, and the Commission of Massage Therapy Accreditation.
ENERGY MEDICINE
POLARAID HEALTH
PolaraidHealth.com
450-486-7888
Polaraid Health offers the revolutionary PolarAid® body tool, inspired by Nikola Tesla and Dr. Georges Lakhovsky. This device supports overall wellness, including sexual health, weight management, joint flexibility, digestive health, and mental calm. Enhance your well-being with PolarAid®. Visit us to discover more about this innovative health solution.
Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a one-of-a-kind keepsake, or something special just for you, our handcrafted collections are designed to make moments more memorable. Thank you for supporting small business and the art of handmade.
HEALTH CARE
BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
1-800-4BAYLOR
BaylorHealth.com/CancerCare
We have a network of comprehensive cancer treatment centers throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, offering full range cancer-related and integrative medical services. Whether you want to learn about types of cancer, screenings, prevention, healthy living or support, Baylor is here for you. We offer the experience, expertise and technology you can trust.
PRIMACARE
13 Locations in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex 888-286-4603
PrimaCare.com
With 13 Urgent Care Centers, PrimaCare serves the medical needs of area families with courtesy, convenience and compassion. Open 7 days a week with extended hours. No appointment necessary. Most insurance accepted. Use our Call Ahead Service and wait where your want. Open: Monday–Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–5pm.
HERBAL MEDICINE
ACN HERBS AND GREEN TEA
LESLIE DUONG
9788 Walnut Street, Suite 108 214-887-8325
LeslieDuong.com
Trained Herbalist, Leslie Duong specializes in traditional herbal remedies and green tea. With over 25 years of experience, she offers personalized herbal consultations, organic herbal medicines, and a wide selection of premium green teas. Committed to natural healing and wellness through high-quality, safe, and effective herbal products. See ad, page 6.
HOLISTIC DENTISTRY
FLOURISH DENTAL BOUTIQUE
Dr. Toni Engram
415 State St #800, Richardson 75082 469-676-2777
Flourish.dental
At Flourish Dental Boutique, we believe the best dentistry is often the least dentistry. We help your body thrive on its own with therapies that enrich and empower its natural healing processes. As a holistic and biological dental practice, we choose safe materials and treatment protocols with special attention to your nutrition and overall wellness.
is a blank canvas, and you need to throw all the paint on it you can.
—Danny Kaye
—Terri Guillemets
KOZLOW & ROWELL
Dr. Philip Kozlow
Dr. Josh Rowell
5050 Quorum Dr, Suite 300, Dallas 972-458-2464
DallasDentist.net
We strive to provide healthy, green alternatives for our dental patients by providing digital X-rays, mercury safe restorative options and chemical free dental hygiene products. Committed to total body wellness while avoiding the use of toxic materials, and continuing education to ensure treatments are up to date and effective in a kind and caring environment. See ad, page 13.
LYNN DENTAL CARE
Dr. D. Brock Lynn 6190 LBJ Freeway #900, Dallas 972-934-1400
LynnDentalCare.com
Practicing dentistry for over 38 years, specializing in periodontics, Dr. Lynn is board-certified and a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontics and Dental implants. He practices dentistry with a holistic approach and is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine &Toxicology as well as the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. See ad, page 2.
HOMEOPATHY
HEALTHY HEALING ARTS/HPWWC
Cathy May Lemmon, Ph.D. Hom, LCPH, BA 469-383-8442
Cathy@HPWWC.org HealthyHealingArts.com
Homeoprophylaxis (HP), a part of Homeopathy, is a major part of Cathy Lemmon’s practice at Healthy Healing Arts. HP has been used worldwide for hundreds of years with a success rate of over 90% to help fight off disease. Lemmon uses an energetic, nontoxic means of promoting immunity in a safe and natural way.
INTEGRATIVE FITNESS
AIKIDO FOR LIFE
Lynn Fabia, Founder Society of Aikido Centers 2080 N. Collins Blvd. Richardson, TX 75080 lynnfabia@gmail.com 469 767-5864
Discover Aikido for Life - peaceful, powerful, and holistic. Increase confidence, awareness, energy, and self-mastery through fluid movement and non-violent self-defense. Learn how to process fear with timeless life concepts for mind, body, and spirit.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
DR. CARLOS CHAPA, ND, OMD, L.AC, PH.D
1320 W. Walnut Hill Ln, Irving 18601 LBJ #501, Mesquite 972-444-0660
DrChapa.com
Trained in Asia, graduated from a Korean University, Dr. Chapa holds a Naturopathic Doctorate Degree and a PhD in Eastern Medicine specializing in Neurological issues. A former medic/nurse since 1995, this unique training has given confidence from many Physicians to refer their patients. Dr. Chapa is founder and medical director of AIMC established in 2009.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CENTER DALLAS
399 Melrose Dr., Suite A, Richardson 214-368-4132
EHCD.COM
A nationally recognized medical facility specializing in the relationship of health and disease to environmental factors. Thorough investigation is made to determine the cause and correlation of the patent’s disease process to environmental factors. A leader in the field treating mold exposure/sensitivity; oil spill, pesticides and chemical exposure; chemical sensitivities, immune dysregulation and much more.
JOHNSON MEDICAL ASSOCIATES
Dr. Alfred R. Johnson, D.O. 997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson 972-479-0400
JohnsonMedicalAssociates.com
Johnson Medical Associates is a state-of-the-art medical clinic offering comprehensive medical services aimed at finding the cause not just treating the symptoms. Dr. Johnson is a doctor of internal medicine with 35+ years of experience in areas of chronic illness, toxic exposures, allergies and the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to address a multitude of conditions. See ad, page 3.
TENNANT INSTITUTE FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Dr. Jerry Tennant MD, Medical Director 35 Veranda Lane, Ste 100, Colleyville 972-580-1156
TennantInstitute.us
Providing traditional “standard-ofcare” medicine using prescription as well as complementary medicine. Recognizing that the human body is not simply a collection of independent parts but rather an integrative whole -we treat it that way. Conditions treated include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, macular degeneration and glaucoma, as well as thyroid support, adrenal support, hormone replacement. essential oil therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
TRULY HEALTHY MD
Dr. Monica Jauregui, M.D. IFMCP 945-286-5711
TrulyHealthyMD.com
Info@trulyhealthymd.com
Known as “America's Medical Detective,” our functional medicine practice specializes in uncovering root causes of health issues. With advanced diagnostics, personalized plans, and a Health Restoration Membership, we treat conditions like hormone imbalances, Lyme, long COVID, leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome, Lyme and co-infections, long COVID, mold and other environmental illnesses, autoimmunity. Financing options available.
WILLOWBEND HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dr. Phyllis Gee, MD 4601 Old Shepard Pl, Bldg. 2, Ste. 201, Plano 469-361-4000
WillowbendHealthAndWellness.com
With 30 years of practice, empowerment and whole health are centerpieces of our care. Our goal is finding and treating the root cause of your symptoms to restore your health utilizing regenerative medical practices. We address functional wellness, sexual wellness, weight management. We do functional health testing. Call for appointment.
LONGEVITY MEDICINE
DR. JEFFREY GLADDEN, MD 16633 Dallas Pkwy #100, Addison 972-310-8916
GladdenLongevity.com
Board certified in Interventional Cardiology. Dr. Gladden specializes in age management, regenerative medicine, and personalized health optimization. With over 30 years of experience, he offers advanced therapies including stem cell treatments, hormone optimization, and functional medicine. Dedicated to maximizing longevity and healthspan for his patients. Author of 100 is the New 30.
PAIN MANAGEMENT
SENERGY MEDICAL GROUP
9901 Valley Ranch Pkwy East, Ste 1009 Irving 972-580-0545
Biomodulator@senergy.us Senergy.us
We are the exclusive distributor of the patented Tennant Biomodulator® PLUS & PRO. These FDA accepted non-invasive devices are designed to offer an affordable, drug free, user-friendly option for the indicated use of symptomatic relief for chronic, severe or intractable pain; and adjunctive treatment in managing post-surgical and post-traumatic pain.
PASTURED MEATS
BOIS D'ARC MEAT COMPANY
13849 E. FM 1396, Windom, TX BoisDdarcMeatCo.com 617-314-1349
Bois D'arc Meat Company provides high-quality, locally-sourced meats. All our cattle, pigs, chickens and turkeys are raised entirely on pasture, are 100% non-GMO and no herbicides, pesticides or chemicals are applied to the land. We offer a variety of cuts and custom butchering services to meet all your needs. Visit us for the finest meats.
PHARMACY
ABRAMS ROYAL COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
8220 Abrams Rd, Dallas 214-349-8000
4904 W. Park Blvd, Plano 972-599-7700 ARP-RX.com
Family owned and operated since 1980, with more than 135 years of combined experience. Our pharmacists work to provide proactive solutions to restore health and wellness. We work as trusted partners with physicians and patients to develop targeted treatment plans and customized wellness programs for your unique needs. Pharmacy Compounding. Accreditation Board (PACB) certified. PSY
RESTAURANTS
West Lovers Lane, Dallas 214-351-5681
SPIRITUAL
CONCORD DALLAS CHURCH
6808 Pastor Bailey Dr, Dallas 214-331-8522
ConcordDallas.tv
Concord Dallas is the church that grows people. Their core values are passion for Christ, passion for people and catalyst for change. Services are Sundays at 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm and online at Streamingfaith.com. Mid-week service is Wednesdays at 7:00pm. Reverend Bryan L. Carter, Senior Pastor.
UNITY CHURCH OF SACHSE
5502 Ben Davis, Sachse 972-984-8946
UnityOfSachse@gmail.com
UnityOfSachse.com
We teach positive psychology based on Spiritual teachings of Jesus. Services are held Sundays at 11:30am. Join us as we share truths and principles to help along your spiritual journey. Each week’s message and all events are posted on our website for your convenience. Spiritual counseling and positive prayer available.
THERMOGRAPHY THERMOGRAPHY
DALLAS WELLNESS AND THERMOGRAPHY CENTER
5220 Spring Valley Rd #LL-40, Dallas ThermographyCenter.com 214-352-8758
All symptoms have an origin story and we get to the root of yours. Using radiation-free technology we can identify your symptom’s origin story and exactly what needs to change internally and how it will remedy your symptoms. We then recommend medical grade natural products to help you heal the root cause easily and organically.
WELLNESS CENTERS
ROCKWALL COMPLETE HEALING & WELLNESS
2455 Ridge Road, Suite 151, Rockwall 972-771-8900
RockwallColonics.com
“Our goal is to offer our community high-quality wellness services in an exceptionally comfortable and healing environment. We know that time-honored healing traditions-Massage, Young Living Raindrop Therapy, Chiropractic, iV therapy, Juicing and Colonics work. RCW offers all of these things, come visit us and begin your journey to optimum wellness. See ad, page 19.
YOGA
CRESCENT YOGA STUDIO & ECO-BOUTIQUE
Dawn Harris, RYT500
306 W Ave F, Midlothian 214-817-8597
CrescentYogaStudio.com
Ellis county’s premier yoga studio and eco-boutique offers a variety of weekly classes, specialty workshops, private yoga and reiki sessions as well as natural health and wellness events. Come feel your stress and tensions away. New student intro offer: 2 weeks unlimited Yoga for $20. Empowering a healthy lifestyle.
ROXANE & CO
Yoga Instructor
Roxane Beneduce, RYT200
RoxaneAndCo.com 469- 216-0389
With years of experience in Yoga & Pilates and passion to keep educating others, I offer a personalized approach to help you grow stronger, more confident, and creatively inspired. I believe in making wellness accessible to all with my unique style. Classes as low as $10 with a year membership plan or reg $25/class at Heritage Senior Center in Irving Mon- Fri. See ad, page 9.
