Natural Awakenings Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex OCT25

THE BRAIN’S SECRET WEAPON

Unlocking the Power of Neuroplasticity

DART SILVER LINE

Connecting North Texas Suburbs to DFW Airport

THE RISE OF SMART DEVICES FOR PETS

Brain Gain

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

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When Your Brain Works … Everything Works

Your brain is the control center for sleep, mood, focus, energy and more, but stress, trauma and even everyday life can throw it out of balance!

When your brain gets “stuck” in patterns of overdrive or exhaustion, it shows up everywhere: restless nights, anxious days, cloudy thinking, low energy. That’s not because you’re weak or broken — it’s because your brain is out of sync with itself. How can your brain help itself?

CERESET® is a safe, non-invasive technology that reflects your brain’s own rhythms back to itself, just like looking at a mirror. This allows your brain to reset itself naturally, so you can return to living at your best!

When your brain is back in balance, you:

• sleep deeply and wake refreshed

• feel calmer and more resilient

• think more clearly and stay focused

• have energy to do what matters most

Publisher Bernice Butler

Editor Jane Aylward

Design & Production Kim Cerne

Web Master Shertech

Features Writer Sheila Julson

Distribution Valerie Swearingen Rick Clark

Zoe Ronchese

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

National Editor Sandra Yeyati

Editor Brooke Goode

Copy Editor/Proofing Melanie Rankin

Layout Flip180 Media

© 2025 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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Corrections & Clarifications

Natural Awakenings Dallas is committed to accuracy. To reach us, contact the Publisher, Bernice Butler at 972-992-8815 or email editor@NADallas. com. Please indicate whether you’re responding to content online or in the magazine.

Marty Miron was erroneously listed as editor of Natural Awakenings

Worth Magazine in the past four issues. We regret

Farm-to-Table Flavors Shine at Chefs for Farmers 2025

The 15th annual Chefs for Farmers Food & Wine Festival returns to Dallas October 29–November 2, 2025, with its signature blend of farm-to-table dining, culinary creativity, and community connection. The festival’s main events will take place at Old City Park, with additional dinners and gatherings at venues across the city.

Highlights include “An Evening in the Garden” on October 29 at Marie Gabrielle Gardens, a setting that blends nature and cuisine, and “Flavors on Fire” at Mirador, featuring chefs presenting inventive, fire-inspired dishes. The weekend of November 1–2 will showcase the festival’s hallmark open-air tastings at Old City Park, where attendees can enjoy a variety of dishes prepared by more than 80 chefs.

Chefs for Farmers is dedicated to strengthening connections between chefs and local farmers while celebrating seasonal, sustainable food. Visitors will be able to sample innovative creations, meet farmers who grow the ingredients, and learn more about the role of local agriculture in building a healthier food system

This year’s festival also benefits nonprofit partners including New Friends New Life and The Seed Project Foundation.

For more information, visit ChefsForFarmers.com/Dallas.

EarthX Celebrates Half-Earth Day in Dallas

EarthX will host a special Half-Earth Day® Celebration on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 7 to 10 p.m. in Dallas. The evening highlights progress toward naturalist E.O. Wilson’s bold “moonshot” vision of conserving half the planet for nature and biodiversity by 2050.

Part networking event and part call to action, the evening will bring together friends, partners, civic leaders, members of the media, and new supporters in a relaxed setting. Guests will celebrate achievements, hear big announcements about the future of EarthX, and enjoy a preview of plans for EarthX 2026.

Designed as a night to reconnect, recharge, and be inspired, the gathering will foster meaningful conversations about how local and global communities can work together to protect wild lands, preserve biodiversity, and build healthier, more sustainable futures.

RSVP is required by October 13, 2025.

For more information, visit EarthX.org or call 214-310-1200.

National Solar Tour Highlights North Texas Homes

The National Solar Tour, the country’s largest grassroots renewable energy event, returns October 3–5 with in-person and virtual open houses nationwide. Hosted by the American Solar Energy Society, the tour celebrates 30 years of showcasing practical ways solar energy, electric vehicles, and efficiency upgrades can support healthier, more sustainable communities.

Two North Texas homes are included this year.

The Byrom House in Irving is a net-zero energy residence that features solar panels, rainwater collection, an EV charger, and a ground source heat pump system. Tours are scheduled October 3 from 3–6 p.m.; October 4 from noon–3 p.m., following the North Texas Renewable Energy Group meeting from 10 a.m.–noon; and October 5 from 3–6 p.m.

The Westbrook House in Fairview, designed in 1996, demonstrates passive solar design, solar water heating, a geothermal ground source heat pump, and rainwater catchment. The home also includes a cool roof and structural insulated panels to save energy. Free tours will be offered October 4 from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Local residents can explore these homes to see renewable energy and sustainable design in action and learn how these solutions can be adapted in their own communities.

For more information, visit NationalSolarTour.org.

Beautiful Practitioner Rooms for Rent at EcoBlend Therapies Wellness Studio!

Lease Space within our vibrant holistic community offering an intimate event lounge. Two stunning 10x12 rooms available for $600/month each, or $1000 for both, featuring:

n Gorgeous natural window light

n Sonos speaker system

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n Excellent cross-referral opportunity!

10830 N Central Expressway, Suite 480, Dallas, TX 75231

Learn More: www.ecoblendtherapies.com Amy@ecoblendtherapies.com for a tour! 972-855-8712

Cowboys New Menu Expands Healthy Options at AT&T Stadium

Dallas Cowboys fans can now enjoy more healthy, plant-based fare during game days at AT&T Stadium. The team has expanded its Plant-Based Touchdown program, developed in partnership with Paul Quinn College’s WE Over Me Farm, which supplies fresh, organic produce for the stadium’s menus.

Returning favorites include the Vegan Ultimate Nachos and Vegan Hot Dog/Chili Dog, along with other plant-forward twists on traditional stadium fare. The initiative, first launched in 2021, highlights how fresh produce and creative recipes can deliver full flavor while encouraging healthier choices. It also helps raise awareness about the role plant-based eating can play in preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

This season, Paul Quinn College is debuting a hydroponic growing system to supply even more greens, herbs, and vegetables to the program. Students benefit through hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, hospitality, and food economics, while fans get fresh, locally grown options right at the stadium.

The Cowboys’ menu still features traditional favorites, but the renewed investment in vegan and vegetarian items reflects a growing demand for healthier, more sustainable stadium fare. Fans can now root for their team while also choosing foods that support personal health and the environment.

For more information, visit ATTStadium.com.

Texan by Nature to Host 2025 Conservation Summit in Dallas

Texan by Nature will bring together more than 300 leaders in conservation, business and community engagement for its annual Conservation Summit on October 21 at the George W. Bush Presidential Center, in Dallas.

Founded by former First Lady Laura Bush, Texan by Nature partners with industry and communities to advance innovative projects that benefit people, prosperity and natural resources. The summit is the organization’s signature event, offering leaders practical strategies for setting goals, implementing programs and measuring results.

The 2025 program will showcase case studies, best practices and collaborations that demonstrate how conservation and business can succeed together. Attendees will gain new tools and connections designed

to accelerate conservation outcomes while strengthening economic value across Texas.

On October 20, Ducks Unlimited will host a pre-summit happy hour at Ozona Grill & Bar from 4 to 6 p.m. The casual gathering, a

short walk from The Highland Dallas, offers drinks, appetizers and networking ahead of the main event.

For more information visit TexanByNature.org.

Clearing the Way: Dallas Takes on Litter for a Greener City

Keeping a city clean is about more than appearances—it’s about public health, protecting wildlife, and building community pride. The City of Dallas’ Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability stresses that reducing litter, preventing pollution, and managing waste responsibly are essential to a vibrant future.

One of the most effective actions residents can take is simple: keep garbage and recycling lids closed and avoid overfilling containers. Overflowing bins lead to scattered trash, clogged storm drains, and hazards for people and wildlife. Cigarette butts are especially damaging. Among the most common forms of litter, they can take up to 15 years to decompose, while their filters release microplastics that never disappear. The city recommends carrying a portable ashtray—an inexpensive way to keep harmful litter off streets and out of waterways.

Residents are also encouraged to keep vehicles free of fast-food wrappers, cups, and bags that often end up along roadways. Proper disposal helps protect parks, streets, and the Trinity River, where litter harms aquatic life and water quality.

To make responsible disposal easy, Dallas provides convenient resources. The McCommas Bluff Landfill includes a Customer Convenience Recycling Center, and transfer stations across the city accept bulky items and recyclables. Residents can also safely drop off batteries, oil, paint, and antifreeze (BOPA) at approved sites or the Dallas County Home Chemical Collection Center. In addition, plastic film can be recycled through partners such as Recycle Revolution and Scrap Management.

Every cigarette butt tossed in a bin, every chemical container disposed of properly, and every bag of plastic film recycled adds up to cleaner streets, healthier waterways, and a greener Dallas.

For more information, visit DallasCityHall.com. See ad, page 4.

Ear Acupressure for Sexual Dysfunction

Auricular acupressure uses vaccaria seeds on specific ear points taped in place and periodically rubbed in a circular motion to stimulate them. A study in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine investigated whether this type of acupressure could help improve sexual function in postmenopausal women.

When the ovaries stop producing hormones like estrogen, mood, sleep and sexual desire may suffer. Low libido, vaginal dryness or pain during sex affects nearly half of postmenopausal women.

In a controlled, randomized, triple-blind trial with 90 Iranian women, half received ear acupressure and the other half received a placebo treatment for 10 sessions over five weeks. Researchers applied the seeds to ear acupoints linked to sexual function.

Participants completed questionnaires about their sexual function, desire and satisfaction before and after the treatments. The acupressure group reported significantly improved sexual functioning and less distress compared to those in the placebo group, with benefits lasting up to two months after treatment.

The Role of Insurance in Chronic Pain Management

Joint, limb, back, abdominal and bowel pain are the most common types of chronic pain. A study published in The Journal of Pain analyzed treatment data from more than 4.8 million chronic-pain patients with commercial or Medicaid insurance. The researchers found that while the types and frequencies of pain were similar across insurance groups, treatments differed significantly.

Commercially insured patients were more likely to receive restorative and complementary treatments than those with Medicaid. For example, physical therapy was provided to 9 percent of Medicaid-insured patients, compared to 31.1 percent of commercially insured patients. Chiropractic care was accessed by 19.2 percent of Medicaid-insured patients and 38.6 percent of commercially insured patients.

Commercially insured patients also received care more quickly, with wait times from diagnosis to treatment being 50 days shorter for restorative therapy. Medicaid patients were more likely to rely on prescription pain medications, with 81.6 percent having at least one prescription, versus 65.6 percent of commercially insured patients. Commercially insured patients accessed outpatient specialist care more frequently and used multiple non-medication treatments.

Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infant Health

A study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology highlights the powerful role breastfeeding plays in building a healthy gut microbiome in infants. Although infants cannot digest human milk oligosaccharides, these components nourish beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium infantis, a species that reduces inflammation and supports immune development.

Breast milk also contains secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), an antibody that blocks harmful bacteria and viruses from attaching to the gut lining, and reduces inflammation in infants. Higher SIgA intake in infancy leads to healthier immune patterns and may provide better protection against allergies and infections. Breast milk also includes living bacteria and other bioactive molecules that contribute to the early seeding of the gut, helping to set the stage for the infant’s future microbiome.

Laboratory Tests for Holistic Health

The rise of functional medicine, integrative medicine and other forms of holistic health care has increased the demand for specialized laboratory testing. According to the National Institutes of Health, 37 percent of American adults use at least one complementary or integrative health approach.

To meet this demand, Labcorp has launched a new specialized testing panel to help providers identify underlying imbalances and support preventive care strategies. This panel includes an advanced cardiometabolic biomarker panel; a comprehensive nutrient panel; a longevity and vitality panel analyzing 71 biomarkers related to aging, inflammation and organ function; men’s and women’s comprehensive hormone panels focused on reproductive and endocrine health; and men’s and women’s whole-body wellness panels with more than 75 biomarkers related to various bodily systems.

The new service enables testing of more than 1,000 biomarkers, providing insights into a patient’s health, from heart function and hor-

Curcumin’s Potential To Revolutionize Cataract Care

Cataracts, a leading cause of blindness, occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes cloudy due to free radical damage. Curcumin, the main compound in turmeric, is a natural antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and reduce their harm. A systematic review published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine evaluated whether curcumin could prevent or treat cataracts.

The researchers analyzed 17 animal and/or lab-grown cell studies, demonstrating that curcumin prevented or slowed cataract formation by reducing damage to fats in cells and boosting antioxidant enzymes that protect the eye.

Despite these findings, the researchers noted that human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits before curcumin can be recommended as a treatment. Additionally, improving curcumin’s absorption, or bioavailability, is crucial to make it effective as medicine.

monal balance to micronutrient levels and overall wellness. In addition, Labcorp Whole Health Solutions offers healthcare providers consultation services, digital test ordering, tools to interpret results, and analytics to identify high-risk patients and improve healthcare delivery.

eli_asenova from Getty Images Signature/

Community

Top Takeaways for Stronger Minds

BrainHealth Week 2025, hosted earlier this year by Dallas’ own Center for BrainHealth drew national attention, but its lessons are especially relevant here in North Texas, where stress, distraction, and mental fatigue weigh heavily on daily life. BrainHealth Week underscored a truth worth repeating: caring for our brains is as essential as caring for our heart or gut.

Brain Health Is Dynamic

Experts emphasized that the brain is not fixed. It adapts and improves throughout life when given the right input. Practices such as mindfulness, physical activity, and lifelong learning help strengthen connections, sharpen focus, and improve emotional regulation. For adults balancing work, family, and community responsibilities, this is a powerful reminder that change and growth are always possible.

Habits That Matter

Much of the discussion centered on how everyday choices shape cognitive vitality. Consistent sleep, nourishing foods, regular movement, and strategies to manage stress create the foundation for brain resilience. These are not costly or complex interventions—they are daily habits within reach of everyone.

Starting Early

One of the most compelling messages was the importance of teaching brain strategies in childhood. When children learn to regulate emotions, sustain focus, and recover from stress, they gain lifelong advantages. Research presented during the week confirmed that students exposed to brain-based

learning models experience stronger academic results and greater resilience well into adulthood.

The Role of Connection

Relationships and purpose also emerged as essential to long-term brain health. Strong social ties, meaningful work, and community involvement create the kind of engagement that protects against isolation and decline. In North Texas, where community life is central to well-being, nurturing these connections is a practical and powerful way to build resilience.

Looking Ahead

Innovation in neurotechnology is advanc-

ing quickly, but BrainHealth Week reminded participants that no device can replace the power of daily practice. Technology may support progress, but the most lasting results come from choices made at home, at school, and in the workplace.

The message for our community is clear: brain health is a lifelong journey, and each of us has the ability to shape it. As we mark Brain Health Month this October, the takeaways from BrainHealth Week 2025 point to a future where stronger minds help build more resilient lives.

For more information and find out about upcoming programs, visit CenterforBrainHealth.org.

Activating Neuroplasticity

The Brain's Ultimate Rewind Button

by Hannah Tytus

The brain has an amazing ability to rewire itself by strengthening, rerouting or growing new connections in response to learning, experience or injury. This continuous reshaping is known as neuroplasticity. The changes can be positive, such as regaining movement or speech after a stroke or learning a new skill. Sometimes they are neutral, and other times they can be harmful when maladaptive patterns reinforce chronic pain or anxiety. Fortunately, the brain can grow and adapt at any age, and there are many ways to help it thrive. Nourishing foods, mindful movement, meditation, social connection, clean air and restful sleep are everyday choices that can nurture the brain in powerful ways.

Neuroplasticity Across the Lifes-

pan

It has long been believed that children’s brains are more malleable as they grow, and that once they reach adulthood, the brain stops evolving. But new research suggests that this may not be the full story. While the brains of developing children are certainly very adaptable, the adult brain is far from fixed.

A variety of influences, including stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, medications, environmental stimulation, learning and aging, can reshape how brain cells are built and function. These factors may trigger changes in the size or structure of brain regions, shift the brain’s chemical makeup, alter the shape of individual neurons and even rewire networks of connections, sparking the growth of new neurons in a process called neurogenesis.

Scientists have long known that injuries, chronic stress and the natural process of aging can take a toll on the brain. Yet, new discoveries in neuroscience and integrative medicine point to the remarkable potential for repair and renewal at every phase of life.

Healthy Fats

“Nutrition is the foundation of everything in health. You can’t build anything in the body without good food,” says Dr. Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist, researcher and author of Dementia Demystified: The Definitive Guide to Resurrecting Your Brain, Reversing Cognitive Decline and Regaining Your

Memory. Contrary to decades of marketing campaigns for low-fat and fat-free diets, Toups explains, healthy fats are essential for brain health. The spongy white and grey matter of the brain, where all the thinking and messaging happens, is made primarily of fat.

Found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are some of the healthiest fats, increasing blood flow in the brain and nourishing its physical structures to help improve learning, memory and cognitive well-being.

Mindful Movement

“The most validated ways to support neuroplasticity are exercise and meditation— and both are free,” says Toups. Exercise is well-known to protect the brain and boost thinking skills. One way it may do this is by supporting the growth of new neurons and strengthening connections within the hippocampus, an area in the brain involved in the formation of fresh memories and the recall of past experiences. A 2017 study published in Experimental Gerontology found that regular exercise significantly increased hippocampus volume, while nonactive participants showed a shrinking hippocampus.

In addition to strength and cardio training, exercise that incorporates mindful and creative components may enrich the benefits. Engaging the body and mind at the same time can strengthen neural networks and support long-term cognitive function. Long

walks, yoga classes or playful sessions with the kids or grandchildren are excellent ways to support the link between body and brain. Studies show that tai chi, a mindful movement practice, may be even more effective than regular exercise in protecting cognitive function because it increases brain activation in regions associated with motor function and focus, and is accessible to those with mobility limitations.

Daily Meditation

A regular mindfulness practice supports neuroplasticity, making it easier to regulate emotions and handle stress. A 2024 review found that regular meditation can physically reshape the brain, strengthening areas tied to focus, emotional control and self-awareness. One reason for this is meditation’s effect on a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This molecule acts like fertilizer for brain cells, helping them grow, form new connections and remain healthy. Meditation increases BDNF, and higher levels of BDNF are linked not only to sharper learning and memory, but also to longer lasting brain health.

Additional research has demonstrated that even a short daily meditation session can increase gray matter density in regions tied to learning, memory and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes help reduce stress reactivity and support long-term resilience. Even if formal seated meditation is not feasible, simple mindful presence can help. “I try to tell people to find small moments to come into their body, come into the moment and be present,” Toups advises. “You can do that

by washing the dishes. You don’t need to sit in lotus position and chant for an hour.”

Creative Activities

“Every time you learn something new or do a novel task, you are promoting neuroplasticity,” explains Toups. Learning new skills, from juggling to speaking a new language, produces measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in brain matter volume. These changes can occur in both early-learning phases and long-term practice, underscoring the brain’s capacity for adaptation throughout life.

Making music and dancing can strengthen connections in the brain; even the act of listening to music has been shown to enhance neural plasticity and cognitive flexibility. Toups recommends rocking out to a favorite song in the kitchen and choreographing a few dance moves.

Restorative Sleep

Rapid eye movement (REM), a stage of sleep marked by increased brain activity and vivid dreaming, plays an important role in neuroplasticity. During REM, the brain actively prunes unhelpful neural connections and reinforces others, supporting brain development, the learning of new skills and memory improvement.

To support consistent REM sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of shuteye and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time. A good night’s rest after learning a new skill or information can help that lesson integrate into the brain, supporting behavioral change.

Clean Air

Keeping the air in the home clean is important for overall brain health. Research suggests that mold toxicity may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, after researchers discovered traces of fungi inside the central nervous system of many Alzheimer’s patients—an infection that was absent in healthy individuals. Mold toxicity in the home can elicit an immune response and harm the brain. For example, a 2020 study found that black mold inhalation can cause inflammation in the hippocampus and reduce neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.

Practicing clean air habits can help assuage the risks of mold exposure at home. These include investing in an air purifier, ventilating regularly by opening windows, using exhaust fans and maintaining household ducts. Mold concerns can be investigated with a simple at-home testing kit, followed by professional testing and remediation, if needed.

Light Therapy

“Photobiomodulation is a powerful way to create neuroplasticity, both quickly and over the long term,” says Dr. Lew Lim, founder of the Vielight photobiomodulation (PBM) device, which has been studied in collaboration with universities and medical institutions, including the University of Toronto, Harvard Medical School and Mount Sinai Hospital.

PBM, also called light therapy, uses gentle red or near-infrared light to stimulate brain cells, boost the energy-producing parts of cells known as mitochondria, improve blood flow and calm inflammation. “When we activate the mitochondria with PBM, the mitochondria actually release growth factors, which support growth of new cells in the brain,” Lim explains.

According to Lim, PBM may help the brain protect and repair its neurons, encourage the growth of new connections and support the clearing of harmful waste proteins linked to cognitive decline. He asserts that certain light pulse frequencies, such as 40 hertz, may also help tune brainwave patterns that are import-

Anna Frank from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

ant for memory and learning. While most research so far has been in small human studies or animal models, the results suggest that regular PBM could strengthen the brain’s natural ability to adapt and rewire itself. Some people use PBM as part of a daily routine to keep their minds sharp, while others use it to heal from more serious brain injuries.

Finding Community

Research shows that staying connected to others offers powerful protection for the brain. Older adults that feel lonely or spend long stretches without social contact face about a 50 percent higher risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, even when other health factors are taken into account. One long-term study found that memory and thinking skills declined 20 percent faster in those that reported feeling lonely.

Being socially active can help guard the brain against decline. For 25 years, the

Northwestern University SuperAging Program has studied people in their 80s and beyond with nimble minds that work as well as people decades younger. Brain scans show that these study participants called SuperAgers do not exhibit the usual thinning of the brain’s outer layer normally seen with age, and one key area involved in attention and decision-making is thicker than even in middle-aged adults.

Under the microscope, SuperAger brain cells are larger, better connected and show fewer signs of Alzheimer’s damage or inflammation. These resilient individuals tend to be very social, valuing close relationships and staying engaged with others—habits that may work hand-in-hand with their unusually healthy brain structures to help protect thinking skills late in life.

Even a weekly coffee with a friend or joining a class can be powerful brain fuel. People with rich social lives, including those that

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regularly share time with friends, family and communities, tend to keep their minds sharper for longer.

An Evolving Brain

The brain is never truly fixed. It is a living, adapting system that can grow stronger, sharper and more resilient at any age, and we can guide those changes. Whether through movement, nutrition, light therapy, meditation or meaningful connection, every choice we make can help shape and rewire the mind for the better. The science is clear: it is never too late to nurture the brain’s potential. Embrace neuroplasticity as a lifelong journey and let each new day be an opportunity to learn, adapt and thrive.

Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and former writer at the National Institutes of Health. She also hosts “Root Shock”, a podcast exploring how cultural and systemic forces shape our understanding of health.

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Brain Health in Action:

How North Texas Practitioners Are Restoring Resilience

By Jessi Sally-Evans

Brain health is more than mental sharpness—it’s about how well the brain communicates with and regulates the rest of the body. From school-aged children to older adults, local practitioners are seeing stress, sensory disconnection, and neurological challenges manifest in ways that affect memory, mood, and daily function. Fortunately, breakthroughs in neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize—are opening doors for recovery and resilience at every age.

To explore what this means for North Texans, we spoke with two local experts whose work reflects different but complementary approaches: Sonya Howeth of Cereset Plano, which uses cutting-edge brain technology to reset balance and flexibility, and Dr. Maryann Woods-Osifo, D.C., a chiropractic physician who helps patients restore brain-body communication through nervous system–centered care.

Common Challenges

Both practitioners agree that today’s lifestyles place enormous pressure on the nervous system. Howeth sees stress affecting patients “from seniors all the way down to school-age children,” disrupting focus, mood, and performance. She explains that Cereset is designed to help the brain reset itself, allowing true neuroplasticity to emerge.

Dr. Osifo points to breakdowns in brainbody communication as a common thread underlying many conditions. In children, this often appears as delayed milestones or sensory processing struggles, while adults report brain fog, fatigue, post-concussion

symptoms, or neuropathy. Although these issues may look different on the surface, they often share the same root: interference in how the brain and nervous system exchange information.

Emerging Therapies

For Howeth, the most exciting advance is Cereset itself, which she describes as “the Rolls Royce of neurotechnology,” a noninvasive system that helps the brain restore balance and flexibility.

Dr. Osifo highlights breakthroughs in peripheral neuropathy care. Once thought irreversible, neuropathy is now being addressed by reconnecting the feedback loop between brain and body. By reintroducing clear sensory input, the nervous system can begin to restore sensation, stability, and confidence.

The Power of Integration

Both experts emphasize that neuroplasticity flourishes when supported by multiple approaches. Howeth notes that Cereset complements conventional, holistic, and functional medicine strategies. Many patients find that their overall wellness only begins to improve once the brain regains its flexibility.

Dr. Osifo explains that conventional medicine excels at diagnostics and acute care, but lasting restoration often requires nervous system–centered input. Her integrated care plans blend chiropractic adjustments, neuro-rehabilitative exercises, sensory activation, and nutrition support, offering patients a more complete pathway to recovery.

Dr. Maryann Woods-Osifo, D.C.

Cereset Plano

“The

Breakthrough Moments

Real-world stories bring the promise of neuroplasticity to life. At Cereset Plano, Howeth recalls a high school student struggling with anxiety and academic stress who regained focus and resilience after sessions. Another client in his 80s, a frequent public speaker, found his confidence and energy restored, allowing him to stay “on top of his game.”

Dr. Osifo shares the case of a 15-monthold child who had not yet begun walking but started taking steps after gentle adjustments and sensory-based home activities stimulated the brain’s motor planning centers. She also recalls a man in his 60s with long-standing neuropathy who regained sensation and balance after his nervous system was retrained to reconnect with input from his feet.

Both practitioners share a message of hope. Howeth reminds readers that “your brain is the master control of your body, a living organ that needs care just like your heart, liver, or gut. Cereset is the best thing you can do for yourself and your future.” Dr. Osifo underscores that the nervous system is never fixed: “Your nervous system is adaptable, responsive, and constantly learning. That’s the incredible power of neuroplasticity.”

a t i n g r i s k s o f c a r d i a c a r r e s t , h e a r t a t t a c k ,

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 a t e c a r d i o i s s u e

For North Texans, the message is clear: brain health can be restored, strengthened, and maintained at any stage of life. Whether through noninvasive neurotechnology or hands-on neurological chiropractic care, local practitioners are proving that neuroplasticity isn’t just a scientific concept—it’s a practical path toward clarity, resilience, and renewed vitality.

About the Experts

Sonya Howeth, Cereset Plano – 1033 E. 15th Street, Plano; 214-892-2273. Cereset.com

Dr. Maryann Woods-Osifo, D.C., founder of Dr. O Wellness and Lifestyle – 6251 West University Drive, Suite 101, McKinney, Texas 75071; 972-547-0454. DrOsifo.com

Kozlow

Breast Health: Key Facts Every Woman Should Know

By Dr. Michael Einsohn, D.C.

Breast cancer and breast disorders continue to impact millions of women every year, but the good news is that awareness and action can make a life-saving difference. When women understand the facts, risks, and tools available for detection, they are empowered to take control of their health.

Statistics paint a sobering picture of how common breast cancer is, both in the United States and worldwide. It is the most common cancer in women across all regions, ages, and backgrounds. One in eight U.S. women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, making it one of the most significant health concerns women face. A woman is diagnosed every six minutes, which means that each hour, 10 more women hear the words, “You have breast cancer.” These numbers illustrate the urgency for ongoing awareness and timely action.

Many women believe breast cancer risk only applies if it runs in the family, but that is a misconception. Risk increases with age, especially after 40, which makes regular screenings even more important. In fact, about 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history. This means all women, regardless of genetics, need to take breast health seriously. Too often women delay screenings, assuming they are “safe” because no relative has been diagnosed. The reality is that vigilance benefits every woman.

Perhaps the most encouraging fact about breast cancer is the role of early detection. When cancer is found while still localized, survival rates reach 99 percent. Discover-

ing cancer before it spreads often means treatment is highly successful and far less invasive. Early detection is not only a medical advantage but also an emotional lifeline, allowing women to face treatment with greater hope and confidence.

Screening tools continue to evolve, and one that has gained growing attention is thermography. This imaging method measures heat patterns and blood flow using infrared technology to detect subtle physiological changes in breast tissue. Abnormal cells often demand more nutrients, which increases blood supply and surface temperatures. Thermography captures these differences, sometimes years before a tumor becomes large enough to be detected by other means.

Because it is noninvasive, painless, and safe,

Dr. Michael Einsohn

Abnormal

Normal

thermography offers unique advantages. The breasts act as a filter for the lymphatic system, which means issues often begin elsewhere in the body. Thermography can highlight those early warning signs, giving women valuable awareness and an opportunity to act sooner. By spotting unusual patterns in heat and circulation, this tool can provide critical insights into breast health, often long before a woman would otherwise suspect a problem.

Breast cancer is also part of a much larger picture of women’s health. Every day in the United States, more than 6,000 breast biopsies and over 1,600 hysterectomies are performed. These figures underscore how often women face procedures related to reproductive and breast health and how important it is to advocate for oneself. Seeking second opinions, exploring less invasive options, and approaching healthcare decisions with as much information as possible are essential steps in protecting long-term wellness.

Awareness alone isn’t enough—it is action that saves lives. Choosing to get a thermogram is one important step in proactive breast health, but it should be paired with

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regular checkups, lifestyle choices that reduce risk, and a commitment to staying informed. Each year, about 115 women die from breast disorders every single day. These losses highlight the urgency of greater awareness, research, and prevention. Yet, the statistics also bring hope: with early detection, survival rates soar to 99 percent.

By combining proven screening methods with tools like thermography, living a healthy lifestyle, and advocating for comprehensive care, women can dramatically improve their chances of preventing breast ailments. Knowledge is the first step, but it must be followed by action. Prioritizing breast health today could save your life—or the life of someone you love.

Dr. Michael Einsohn is Founder of Thermography and Wellness Center of Dallas, serving North Texas for 25 years. For more information, visit ThermographyCenter.com. See ad on back cover.

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Growing Good Food in North Texas

Seven local organizations are receiving a boost in their efforts to expand access to fresh, healthy foods thanks to the 2025 Growing Good Food Awards, a grant initiative of Texas Health Resources Community Hope program. Nearly $114,000 in funding will support grassroots projects that are helping North Texans grow, distribute, and learn about nutritious foods in their own neighborhoods.

Launched in 2020, the program was created to strengthen fledgling urban farms and community-based food initiatives that often lack the resources to apply for large-scale grants. To date, more than $312,000 has been awarded to 15 organizations, with a focus on building sustainable food systems, increasing education, and reducing nutrition insecurity.

This year’s awardees represent a wide range of creative solutions. In Fort Worth, Collective Action Network (CoAct) North Texas will expand its Grow Southeast initiative

and the Funkytown Mindful Market, an artisan and farmers market that increases food access and cultural representation. Community Link, which serves families in northwest Tarrant County, will enhance food production at Fresh Link Farms and strengthen its Farmer Buyback Program

In Stephenville, the Erath County Community Garden is set to expand with new irrigation and garden beds to provide more fresh produce for local food banks. Feed the Streetz Outreach, serving several Dallas zip codes, will grow its mobile pantry program and launch “Table Talk” community sessions to connect residents with resources linking diet, health, and lifestyle.

Dallas-based New Life Farms will create a farmers market near UNT Dallas, while Fort Worth’s Ridglea Giving Garden will expand its regenerative growing and education programs, with a goal of producing 2,000 pounds of food in the coming year. The Southside Community Garden, also in

Fort Worth, will support revitalization days for its grassroots network of home gardeners in the 76104 ZIP code, an area with one of the lowest life expectancies in Texas.

“Nutrition security is a complex problem that starts with access to fresh and healthy foods,” said Matt Dufrene, vice president of Healthy People, Healthy Communities at Texas Health. “By investing in these local growers and organizations, we can help them expand their reach and improve quality of life across North Texas.”

The Growing Good Food initiative is one piece of Texas Health’s broader commitment to reducing nutrition insecurity through programs such as Healthy Hubs, Double Up Food Bucks, and school-based learning gardens. Together, these efforts aim to ensure more North Texans have the knowledge and resources to thrive.

For more information, visit TexasHealthCommunityHope.org.

The Highly Sensitive Rabbit

By Judith Orloff, M.D., and Jennifer Adams Illustrated by Katy Tanis (Sounds True, 2025)

Psychiatrist, empath and New York Times best-selling author Dr. Judith Orloff believes that sensitive children are gifts to the world, yet they are often misunderstood, shamed, or bullied for their differences. Her own childhood experience of being called “overly sensitive” and urged to “get a thicker skin” inspired her latest children’s book, The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, co-written with author Jennifer Adams and illustrated by Katy Tanis.

other desert animals, she begins to understand that her empathy and sensitivity are not flaws but powerful gifts.

The story follows Aurora, a tender cottontail living in the high Sonoran Desert. Deeply attuned to nature and the emotions of those around her, Aurora struggles to connect with her siblings, who label her “too emotional” to join their play. When a flash flood destroys the family’s home, Aurora is overwhelmed by grief and sorrow. Through encounters with

With gorgeous, vivid desert imagery and gentle storytelling, The Highly Sensitive Rabbit provides parents and children with a friendly, empowering resource. The book opens space for conversations about empathy, acceptance, overwhelm and healthy boundaries, while encouraging children to honor their unique sensitivities. Adults may also find comfort in its message, recognizing the sensitive inner child within themselves.

The Highly Sensitive Rabbit will be released October 7 and is available at Amazon, Barnes

Judith Orloff, M.D., is a psychiatrist, an empath and a New York Times best-selling author who is a champion of highly sensitive children

Dr. Judith Orloff

Amy Halman’s Holistic Path to Radiant Skin

For more than 20 years, award-winning holistic esthetician Amy Halman has guided clients on a journey where beauty and wellness intertwine. As owner of EcoBlend Therapies in Dallas, Amy views the skin not as a surface to be polished, but as a living, intelligent organ that reflects the health of the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.

“Your skin is an intelligent and vital organ, the largest of our body. It’s constantly communicating with us, reflecting everything from digestion and hormones to stress levels, inflammation, and nervous system regulation,” Amy explains. “Our skin tells us the story of the whole person. Our mental, emotional, and physical conditions are the projectors, and the skin is our screen.”

A cornerstone of her approach is nutrition and gut health. With years of study and experience, Amy helps clients understand how the microbiome shapes skin health, often encouraging anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense foods to support digestion and complexion. She pairs this with techniques such as lymphatic drainage massage, which clears metabolic waste, improves circulation, and eases inflammation. “I tell my clients I’m really more concerned with your poop than the products you’re using,” she quips.

Amy’s path to holistic esthetics began in her twenties, when she struggled with painful cystic acne and severe adrenal fatigue. “It was devastating, not just physically but emotionally,” she recalls. “Doctors wanted to prescribe antibiotics and heavy drugs, but nothing addressed the root cause. My body

Amy Halman

was crying out for balance, not more chemicals.” Through nutritional shifts, natural treatments, and a patient reconnection with her body, she slowly healed. That experience ignited her passion to help others do the same.

At EcoBlend Therapies, treatments are fully customized and may include infrared and LED light therapy, intuitive coaching, meditation, flower essence therapy, and acupressure—woven together with holistic skin treatments that support each person’s unique needs. Stress relief is always central, with aromatherapy and a soothing touch inviting deep relaxation.

One of Amy’s signature offerings is Sculptural Face Lifting (SFL), a technique that releases deep muscular tension, stimulates

lymphatic flow, and tones the skin. Clients report not only a radiant glow but also relief from TMJ, migraines, teeth clenching, and even Bell’s Palsy.

Importantly, Amy’s work doesn’t end when a session does. She provides practical tools—nutritional suggestions, daily rituals, and stress management practices—so clients can extend their healing at home. “We help the body’s innate systems detoxify, balance, and heal, so the skin can truly thrive,” she says. “Beauty really is more than skin deep.”

Through EcoBlend Therapies, Amy is redefining what it means to care for the skin. For her, it is not vanity but vitality, not indulgence but integration—a calling to help others rediscover their glow, inside and out.

EcoBlend Therapies is located at 10830 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 480, Dallas. For more information, visit EcoBlendTherapies. com or call 469-836-3910. See ad, page 8.

Feeding Our Brain Power

What To Eat for Mental Acuity

by Maya Whitman

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in 10 adults aged 45 and older experience worsening memory loss or cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. A 2022 study in JAMA Neurology indicates that 22 percent of adults over age 65 experience mild cognitive impairment. Our dietary choices significantly impact brain longevity, and what we avoid is equally important.

The late pioneering researcher Dr. Martha Clare Morris developed the MIND Diet, which merges the Mediterranean and DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diets to enhance cognitive function with plenty of delicious versatility. A 2015

study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that strict adherence to the MIND Diet can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 53 percent, while moderate adherence can lower it by 35 percent.

The MIND Diet is a stress-free, lifelong plan with bountiful menu options, including fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil. It accommodates gluten-free and plant-based preferences. With satiating breakfast options like Greek yogurt or scrambled eggs, spicy chili for lunch and fun dinner burrito bowls, this diet is flexible and beginner-friendly, allowing for moderate consumption of pasta, potatoes and bread, with a focus on whole-

grain, complex carbohydrates over refined ones. It also recommends oven roasting instead of high-heat frying.

A Lifelong Investment

“You can never be too young to embrace brain-healthy dietary strategies in support of longevity. Early adoption of brain-healthy eating habits may also enhance cognitive reserve, strengthening the brain’s resilience to neuropathological damage over time,” says neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, founder and CEO of the Willeumier Center for Advanced Research in Neurotrauma & Brain Rehabilitation, in California.

Embracing variety is important. “I like to have people think of brain-healthy food groups, not superfoods,” states Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and author of The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food. Fenn notes that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men “for reasons that have nothing to do with living longer. Alzheimer’s can start in the brain up to 30 years before the first symptoms. It’s never too early or too late. Data shows that switching to a brain-healthy diet can have benefits even in one’s 70s.”

The Link Neuroscience Institute, in California, recommends eating more colorful berries, fatty fish such as sardines, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and a moderate amount of high-quality dark chocolate to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mood disorders, including long-term depression. They also advise against consuming processed and fried foods, sugar, alcohol and sodium.

Cutting Out the Culprits

According to Willeumier, even a modest reduction in the intake of processed foods, including packaged products, sweetened cereals, deli meats and sugary beverages, can have a positive impact on brain health. She recommends the complete elimination of

alcoholic beverages. “Neuroimaging studies, including the Whitehall II Study, which followed 550 participants over a 30-year period tracking alcohol intake and cognitive performance, suggest that there is no protective effect of alcohol on the brain, even from light drinking. Eliminate alcohol for the preservation of your long-term brain health.”

Certain foods accelerate brain aging, and Fenn recommends limiting or eliminating fast and fried foods, sugar, artificially sweetened drinks, ultra-processed products and foods that are excessively high in saturated fat like butter and some cheeses. Certain cooking techniques are also problematic. “Frying, searing and grilling directly over high heat creates inflammatory particles called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs,” explains Fenn. “Think low-and-slow when you cook—low heat, slow cooking, braising, poaching, steaming and indirect grilling.”

Willeumier notes that these healthy eating habits can have an immediate effect on brain function by influencing neurotransmitter production, stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and improving cerebral blood flow, all of which can also help us to live longer, maintain our focus and thinking skills, and feel happier.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

PROTEIN-PACKED PANCAKES WITH WILD BLUEBERRIES

YIELD: 3 SERVINGS

1 cup old-fashioned, rolled oats

1 medium ripe banana

2 large eggs

½ cup cottage cheese (nonfat or whole), plus more for serving, optional

¼ cup water

½ cup almond, buckwheat, hazelnut or quinoa flour

¼ cup protein powder, optional

¼ cup hemp seeds, plus more for sprinkling

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp kosher salt

¾ cup frozen wild blueberries (about 1 Tbsp per pancake)

Yogurt to taste, optional

Fresh berries or mashed frozen berries for toppings, optional

Pure maple syrup, warmed, optional

Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled

Place the oats in a blender until ground into a coarse flour with a texture like almond meal. Add the banana, eggs, cottage cheese and ¼ cup water and blend on high until smooth and no pieces of banana remain. Add the flour, protein powder, hemp seeds, baking powder, cinnamon and salt, in that order. Blend just until combined. Set aside while toppings are prepared.

Check the batter. If it is too thick to pour, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until it has a pourable consistency but not too thin—these should be thick, hearty pancakes.

Warm a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil, swirling to distribute evenly. Measure ¼ cup of batter for each pancake, about three per large skillet. Scatter 1 heaping tablespoon of blueberries over each pancake, pressing slightly so they adhere. Cook until the underside is crispy and brown and the center is set, about 3 to 4 minutes. Using a rigid spatula, carefully flip the pancake and cook until golden brown on the other side and the center is dry, another 3 to 4 minutes.

Serve right away or transfer to a plate and place in the oven to keep warm. Repeat, using the remaining batter and berries. Serve hot, dollop with yogurt, a sprinkle of hemp seeds and more berries on top. Drizzle with maple syrup.

Store leftover pancake batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The batter will thicken as it sits, so thin with 1 teaspoon of water at a time.

Recipe courtesy of Annie Fenn.

Courtesy Annie Fenn

SALMON AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

2 wild-caught salmon fillets

1 lb fresh asparagus, washed

2 Roma tomatoes

1 avocado, sliced

1 head butter lettuce, divided in half ½ lemon, sliced in two

GREEN JUICE: MORNING HYDRATION BRAIN BOOST

YIELD: 1 SERVING

4 to 5 stalks of celery

½ to 1 whole cucumber, peeled

½ cup Italian parsley

½ cup baby spinach

2 to 3 stalks of red kale or Pacific kale

½ to 1 whole green apple, peeled and cored

Mix all ingredients together in a juicer or blender and enjoy.

Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.

1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped

1 Tbsp fresh or dried thyme leaves

Sprinkle of oregano Himalayan salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste

Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled

Preheat the oven to 400° F.

Place salmon in a baking dish and squeeze an even amount of lemon juice on each fillet. Season filets evenly with chopped garlic and thyme leaves. Add Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake salmon in the oven for 25 minutes.

Place asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Add Himalayan sea salt and black pepper to taste. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 15 minutes.

Serve salmon on a bed of butter lettuce with chopped Roma tomatoes, avocado and roasted asparagus on the side.

Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.

Smart Devices for Pets

Integrating Technology Into Daily Routines

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Advancements in technology are improving the daily lives of pets and their people. From collars equipped with global positioning systems (GPS) to wearable devices that monitor behavior and detect potential health shifts, these innovations are transforming the way we interact with our animal companions. Before embracing smart devices, however, pet parents should be informed about their potential benefits and limitations.

Location Trackers

GPS trackers attached to pet collars are gaining popularity, especially for active or escape-prone animals. Using satellite or cellular signals to continuously monitor a pet’s location, these devices help pet owners quickly locate stray companions.

A 2021 study conducted at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, revealed that the radiation exposure experienced by pets from GPS and Bluetooth devices is well below international safety standards, implying that adverse health effects are unlikely. The study also noted that adjusting how often a tracking device sends location data can influence a pet’s exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). For example,

some devices transmit only every few hours when the pet is resting, but switch to every minute or every few seconds during periods of high activity. To further minimize RF-EMF exposure, the researchers recommend using a harness-mounted tracking device instead of a collar-mounted one.

In addition to GPS technology, microchips can serve as a reliable backup identification method. A microchip is a permanent form of identification implanted under the pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It cannot track a pet’s real-time location but stores a unique number linked to the owner’s contact details. If scanned at a clinic or shelter, it can help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Health Monitors

Although they do not replace veterinary care, health trackers can support early intervention and informed veterinary conversations. Certain devices monitor behaviors such as scratching, licking, shaking, sleeping and resting. They compare this data to the pet’s usual habits or population averages. Sudden changes may indicate discomfort and prompt further attention. Data from health trackers helps veterinarians and pet parents confirm concerns about allergies, anxiety or appetite changes.

These devices can be useful in busy or multipet homes. Owners may miss subtle changes, whereas trackers are capable of detecting them. The historical data can help veterinarians see patterns over time. Still, the data needs context, as not every change signals an illness. Environmental shifts, routine disruptions or the natural progression of aging can also impact an animal’s behavior. Trackers flag what is different, but they do not explain why.

While pet health trackers can provide valuable behavioral insights, metabolic estimates such as calorie burn should be interpreted with caution. A 2023 study published by AVMA Publications evaluated the accuracy of a popular dog activity monitor. The study of 23 healthy dogs over a 28-day period found that the monitor failed to accurately measure the dogs’ calorie expenditures. Notably, the device overestimated the calorie needs of most of the dogs, even when their body weights remained stable throughout the study period. While these devices can be useful for tracking trends and identifying changes, pet owners should exercise caution when using them to make dietary decisions.

Automatic Feeders

Feeding routines are crucial components of many pet health plans, particularly for animals experiencing food sensitivities, chronic illness or weight concerns. Smart feeders can automate portion control, meal timing and consistency. For veterinarian-guided

Oksana

Olga Stock/CanvaPro

weight-loss plans that rely on controlled food and calories intake, it is imperative to select devices that can deliver multiple daily feedings in precise, small portions. Most smart feeders work well for dry kibble. Some models feature sealed trays, microchip-activated lids or cooling compartments, making them suitable for wet or home-cooked meals.

Smart feeders can help maintain consistency and promote healthy habits but should not be considered standalone solutions for diet-related health concerns. They are most effective when integrated into a clinical feeding plan under the guidance of a veterinarian. This approach ensures that calorie needs are met, a healthy weight is maintained and potential dietary risks are minimized.

Smart Device Limitations

Smart pet technology can provide valuable insights into a pet’s daily habits, but it is essential to understand its limitations. These devices are not diagnostic tools. They cannot test for allergens, run lab work or evaluate physical symptoms. Their primary function is to serve as early warning systems, flagging subtle changes that pet parents might otherwise miss. It is important to refrain from solely relying on technology. Misinterpreting data can lead to unnecessary worry or delayed medical attention. Real observation and professional input remain indispensable.

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

Strong at Any Age

Embracing Resistance Training During Menopause

by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, bringing with it numerous physiological changes that can affect health, mobility and quality of life. Among these changes, declines in muscle mass, bone density and balance present particular challenges. Research suggests that resistance training is a safe and effective strategy to counteract these effects.

For women navigating perimenopause and menopause, it is not just a savvy fitness choice, but a crucial intervention to improve strength, balance, lean muscle mass and bone health, thereby reducing the risk of falls and injuries while supporting healthy aging.

Physiological Challenges of Menopause

Perimenopause can last for two to 10 years leading up to menopause, which is officially marked by 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and involves a natural decline in estrogen production. This hormonal shift accelerates loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis), both of which are critical factors for maintaining physical function and preventing injury.

“Once in menopause, we lose muscle and bone mass at a faster rate, so strength training

helps counteract that loss,” explains Dr. Brenda Heinecke, physical therapist and pelvic floor specialist based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Muscle weakness and decreased balance increase the risk of falls, a leading cause of injury in older adults, while reductions in lean body mass slow metabolism and contribute to weight gain.

Benefits of Resistance Training

Resistance training, also known as strength training, involves exercises that cause muscles to contract against an external force such as weights, resistance bands or body weight. Unlike aerobic exercise, which primarily benefits cardiovascular health, resistance training specifically targets muscle and bone strength.

A 2023 systematic review of 12 randomized controlled trials involving more than 800 women, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, reported that resistance training improved musculoskeletal health in menopausal women, highlighting its positive effects on muscle mass, bone density and functional outcomes like balance and mobility.

The authors noted that resistance training could effectively combat the muscle and bone loss accelerated by menopause, contributing to better overall health and reduced risk of fractures. They also found strength training to be positively associated with hormonal and metabolic improvements in menopausal women, including stabilized blood pressure and a reduction of hot flashes compared to inactive women in the studies.

Hip Strength and Fall Prevention

The hips play a vital role in balance and mobility, but hip strength diminishes significantly during menopause, affecting gait stability and increasing the likelihood of falls. A 2023 article in the Iranian Journal of Public Health reported on a Korean study of postmenopausal women that performed a variety of resistance exercises to target the large muscle groups of the lower body, including a band lateral walk, one-leg deadlift, side-lying hip abduction and squat deceleration, over the span of four weeks. The group that performed these resis-

tance exercises significantly improved their gluteal muscle strength.

Lean Body Mass and Metabolic Health

Menopause-related declines in estrogen also contribute to reductions in lean body mass and increases in fat mass, which can negatively impact metabolism, insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. “Strength training not only helps increase muscle and bone mass, but it helps with other common issues of menopause such as cardiovascular disease; insulin resistance; and impairments to mood, cognitive function and sexual health," Heinecke remarks. Resistance training helps to preserve and increase lean muscle mass, which in turn supports a healthy metabolic rate and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

A 2023 BMC Women’s Health study of premenopausal women highlights that maintaining lean body mass through resistance exercise helps mitigate common menopausal symptoms such as weight gain and fat redistribution.

Balance and Functional Independence

Balance naturally deteriorates with age due to changes in the nervous system and muscle function. The 2023 review in Journal of Clinical Medicine reinforces that resistance training not only strengthens muscles, but also improves neuromuscular coordination, which is critical for maintaining balance and preventing falls. Exercises such as squats, lunges and step-ups challenge both strength and balance systems, making them ideal components of a menopausal fitness program.

Starting a Resistance Training Program

Given its benefits, resistance training should be a cornerstone of menopausal health routines. However, many women may feel uncertain about how to begin or fear injury. “My personal recommendation would be to join a fitness class or hire a personal trainer for a few sessions,” shares Victoria Morse, a certified

fitness instructor in Kona, Hawaii. “For most people, lasting change can be hard to achieve alone—they need accountability. Once we accept this truth, our chance of success increases dramatically.”

For those that are ready to add strength training to their routine, begin with light resistance and focus on proper technique, gradually increasing weight or resistance as strength improves. Aim for two to three sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups with these exercises:

• Squats, lunges and step-ups for lower body and hip strength

• Push-ups or chest presses for upper body

• Rows and shoulder presses for back and shoulders

• Core stabilization exercises such as planks or medicine ball rotations

Menopause introduces complex challenges, but resistance training offers a scientifically supported solution to some of the most significant concerns: loss of hip strength, balance and lean body mass. For women facing menopause, lifting weights or using resistance bands is more than just a fitness trend; it is an essential strategy to maintain mobility, independence and vitality for years to come.

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.

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Thursday, October 2

Empowering Seniors Expo – 8:30am–1:30pm. Free health & wellness expo with screenings, workshops, lunch and resources. Will Rogers – Amon G. Carter Jr. Exhibits Hall, 3400 Burnett-Tandy Dr, Fort Worth. 817-248-6295. EmpoweringSeniors.com.

Arts & Autos: Electric Avenue (National Drive Electric Month) – 3–6pm. EV showcase with ride-and-drive demos and clean air resources. Dallas City Hall Plaza, Dallas. 817-695-9240. CleanCities@NCTCOG.org. NCTCOG.org / DFWCleanCities.org.

Friday–Saturday, October 3–4

Fort Worth Botanic Garden: Fall Plant Sale – Fri 2–6pm; Sat 9am–2pm. Native & pollinator-friendly plants; horticulture advice on site. 817-463-4160. 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth. FWBG.org.

Friday–Sunday, October 3–5

Native Plant Society of Texas: Fall Symposium – Virtual – Times vary by session. Three-day gathering with lectures, field trips and workshops. Registration required. Cost varies (early bird, full, virtual).Communications@NPSOT.org. 830997-9272. Salado, TX & Virtual. NPSOT.org.

Day of the Dead Half Marathon & 5K –8am. Quarter, half, 5K, virtual. Fair Oaks Park, 7621 Fair Oaks Ave, Dallas. RunSignUp.com.

Tuesday, October 7

Dallas Arboretum: Preserved Moss Art Workshop – 6–8pm. Botanical art with preserved moss. 214-515-6510. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. DallasArboretum.org.

Saturday–Sunday, October 11–12

Fort Worth Neighborhood Litter Stomp – Times vary by location. Citywide community cleanup. Free, supplies provided. 817-392-1234. Various Fort Worth neighborhoods. FortWorthTexas.gov.

Wellness Expo – Grapevine – 11am–6pm both days. Holistic health, bodywork, healing arts and wellness vendors. $8/ day; $10 weekend; under 12 & 65+ free. Grapevine Convention Center, 1209 S Main St, Grapevine. 972-925-9393. WellnessExpo.net

Saturday, October 11

Irving Oktoberfest Runs (5K/10K/Half) – Starts 7:30am+. Multiple distances. The Plaza at Toyota Music Factory, 330 W Las Colinas Blvd, Irving. IrvingMarathon.com.

Fort Worth: Neighborhood Litter Stomp (Citywide) – 8–11am. Volunteer litter cleanup hosted by Keep Fort Worth Beautiful; supplies provided.

817-392-2046. Citywide sites across Fort Worth. FortWorthTexas.gov/litterstomp. Tri‑City Lake Ray Hubbard Cleanup –8am–Noon. Shoreline & tributary cleanup benefiting the shared Lake Ray Hubbard watershed (adjacent to Rockwall County). Meet at Hella Shrine, 2121 Rowlett Rd, Garland. 972-205-3891 (Garland Environmental). GarlandTX.gov/ VolunteerGarland.org.

River Legacy: Fall Festival – 10am–7pm. Crafts, live animals, pumpkin patch, seasonal fun. $8 (ages 3+). 817-860-6752. 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington. RiverLegacy.org.

Texas Discovery Gardens: Succu‑ lent‑Crowned Pumpkins – 10:30–11:30am. Create succulent centerpiece. Members $40 / Non-members $45. 214-428-7476. 3601 MLK Jr Blvd, Dallas. TXDG.org.

Sunday, October 12

NPSOT North Central Chapter Fall Plant Sale – 5:30–7:30pm. Sale of native plants. North-Central-Chapter@NPSOT. org. White Settlement, TX. NPSOT.org.

Trinity River Audubon Center: Science Sunday – 10–11am. Hands-on eco-exploration for all ages. 214-309-5801. 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. TrinityRiver.Audubon.org.

Thursday, October 16

Semones YMCA Prayer Breakfast –7-8:30am. Annual gathering featuring Ivy Winfrey (DJ Poizon Ivy) sharing on breaking barriers and self-care. $15 individual, $150 table of 10. Semones Family YMCA, 4332 Northaven Rd, Dallas. 214-357-8431. Dallas.RecliqueCore.com/Programs.

Trinity River Audubon Center: Commu nity Naturalist – 10–11:30am. Learn local ecology and stewardship basics on the trails. 214-309-5801. 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. TrinityRiver.Audubon.org. Rockwall Helping Hands Resource Fair & Grand Opening – 4–6:30pm. Community resource & wellness fair with local agencies and health services. Helping Hands, 950 Williams St, Rockwall. 972771-1655. RockwallHelpingHands.com.

Saturday–Sunday, October 18–19

Dallas Spartan Race Trifecta Weekend – Sprint (~5K, 20 obstacles), Super (~10K, 25 obstacles) and Beast (~21K, 30+ obstacles). Complete all three for the Trifecta medal wedge. Finisher medal, race tee and wedge piece included. Spectators welcome; volunteers needed. Twin Canyons Ranch, 6825 ` St, Granbury. 781-4311800. Spartan.com.

Saturday, October 18

Trinity River Audubon Center: Morn ing Bird Walk – 7:30–9am. Guided birding; bring binoculars if you have them. 214-309-5801. 6500 Great Trinity Forest

Way, Dallas. TrinityRiver.Audubon.org.

Cedar Hill State Park: Harvest Heritage Festival (Penn Farm) – 10am–2:30pm. Historic farm tours, conservation booths, family activities. Park entry required. 972-291-3900. 1570 W FM 1382, Cedar Hill. TPWD.texas.gov.

Environmental Education Center Open House – 10am–3pm. Dallas ISD facility featuring nature trails, fossil pavilion, live animals, gardens, science labs and observatory. Family activities and a catfish fish fry. Focused on Dallas ISD faculty, staff and families. STEM Environmental Education Center, 201 Environmental Dr, Seagoville. 972-749-6900. DallasISD.org/ EnvironmentalCenter.

Dallas WaterWise Landscape Tour – 4–6pm. Tour of drought-tolerant and native plant landscapes; maps and volunteers assist. Free. City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality & Sustainability, 214-670-1200. White Rock Pump Station area, Dallas, TX. DallasCityHall.com.

Wednesday, October 22

Spiders in the Park – Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve – 12–1:30pm (virtual). Presentation by Meghan Cassidy on local spiders and habitats. Free / donation. Arlington Parks Dept. Virtual / Sheri Capehart Preserve, Arlington, TX. ArlingtonTX.gov.

Friday–Saturday, October 24–25

Dallas Arboretum: Goblins in the Gar den – 6–8pm. Halloween event with trick-or-treating, décor. Members only. 214-515-6510. 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. DallasArboretum.org.

Saturday, October 25

Wellness in Action 5K – 8am-noon. 5K and 1K fun run at White Rock Lake Park benefiting Arabella Wellness Center’s holistic care for women. $35/adults, $20/ children. White Rock Lake Park, 1199 Emerald Isle Dr, Dallas. RunSignUp.com/ Race/TX/Dallas/WellnessInAction5K.

Trinity River Audubon Center: Morn ing Bird Walk – 9–10:30am. Explore fall migration along the Great Trinity Forest. 214-309-5801. 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. TrinityRiver.Audubon.org.

Texas Discovery Gardens: Succu‑ lent‑Crowned Pumpkins Class –10:30–11:30am. Create a living succulent centerpiece using eco-friendly methods. Members $40 / Non-members $45. 214-428-7476. 3601 MLK Jr Blvd, Dallas. TXDG.org

Monday, October 27

Dallas–Fort Worth Clean Cities Tech nical Advisory Committee Meeting –2–3:30pm. Stakeholder session on clean transportation and alternative fuels. NCTCOG Offices, 616 Six Flags Dr, Arlington. 817-695-9240. CleanCities@NCTCOG.org. DFWCleanCities.org.

Thursday, October 2

Kill Your Lawn with Crime Pays but Botany Doesn’t – 6–8pm. Provocative evening of comedy and commentary on backyard lawns, hosted by botanist Joey Santore. Ages 18+. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org.

Saturday, October 4

LLELA 1st Saturday Nature Walk – 10am–12pm. Guided naturalist walk through prairies, forests and wetlands. LLELA, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. 972-219-3550. LLELA.org.

Oktoberfest – 11am–9pm. German cuisine, stein-hoisting contests, vendor booths, music and family fun. The Star District, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco. 469365-0000. VisitFrisco.com/Events.

AnnaFest – 12–4pm. Western games, armadillo races, live music, food, photo ops and longhorn meet-and-greet. Anna Municipal Complex, 120 W 7th St, Anna. 972-924-3325. AnnaTexas.gov/AnnaFest.

Healthy Living Fair at Chestnut Square – 2–6:30pm. Yoga, fitness demos, nutrition research unit, health and wellness screenings and integrative health seminars. Free admission. 972-992-8815. Heritage Village at Chestnut Square, McKinney, TX. ChestnutSquare.org.

Plano WaterWise Landscape Tour – 3–9pm. Free, self- guided tour of sustainable, Texas-wise home landscapes. Plano Environmental Health & Sustainability Dept, 972-941-7000. Locations throughout Plano, TX. Plano.gov.

Friday, October 10

Fort Worth Audubon: RaptorQuest –12–1:30pm. Scott Harris shares stories from his nationwide raptor journeys. Free / donations welcome. 817-9657284. Fort Worth Museum of Science & History & Online. FWAudubon.org.

Friday–Saturday, October 10–11

Birds & Boos at Blackland Prairie Rap tor Center – 6–8pm. Evening event with raptor ambassadors, food trucks and prairie walk. 469-964-9696. Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, 1625 Brockdale Park Rd, Lucas, TX. BPRaptorCenter.org.

Saturday, October 11

LLELA Open House – 10am–2pm. Fam-

ily-friendly day with habitat tours, exhibits, and butterfly education. LLELA, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. 972-219-3550. LLELA.org.

Family Campout – 6:30pm-8am. Evening of discovery with team-building activities, Texas wildlife, and s’mores. For families with kids ages 5-17; one adult required per 4 children. Reservations required. $24/child, $29/adult. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. HeardMuseum.org/Other-Programs.

7th Annual Jazz in the Garden Fund raising Event – 7-11pm. Live jazz with dinner, drinks, and fellowship. Features Jazz Pianist Mark Noethen and musicians. $60 in person, $30 online donation for live stream. 2618 Greenway Dr, McKinney. Zeffy.com/En-US/Ticketing/2025-Coedfo-Jazz-In-The-Garden-Fundraising-Dinner.

Tuesday, October 14

McKinney Benefits & Wellness Fair –Noon–5pm and Wed, Oct 15, 7–11am. Vendor exhibits, screenings (cardiovascular, skin cancer, flu shots), chair massages, HRA and more. Free. McKinney HR, 972-547-7560. Collin College Conference Center, 2400 Community Ave, McKinney, TX. McKinneyTexas.org.

Friday, October 17

Fright at the Museum – 6-10pm. Adult-only Halloween event with outdoor movie, haunted forest, costume contest and more. $39/person ages 21+. Heard members save $5. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. HeardMuseum. org/Fright-At-The-Museum.

Saturday, October 18

2025 Denton Celebrate Life 5K – 8:30–11am. Includes Survivor Lap at 8:15am. $25 early / $35 regular; kids 12 & under $15. Crystal.McBride@usoncology.com or Jennifer.Fugate@usoncology.com. Text 513-639-1896. North Lakes Park, 2001 W Windsor Dr, Denton, TX.

DMAC Monster Dash 5K & Trick‑or‑ Treat Trail – 5K 9:30–10:30am; Trick-orTreat Trail 11am–1pm. Family run/walk and kid-friendly trail. Denton. DMACDenton.org/MonsterDash.

Plano International Festival & Well ness Fair – 11am-5pm. Multicultural festival with food, dance, music, wellness fair, fitness demos, kids’ activities, and zero-waste stations. Free admission.

Haggard Park, 15th St and Ave H, Plano. PlanoInternationalFestival.com.

NCTC Gainesville Campus Trunk or Treat – 4–6pm. Community Trunk-orTreat with campus tours and program info; all ages. Free. 1525 W California St, Gainesville. NCTC.edu/Events Frisco Arts Walk & Run (Arts 5K) – 8:3011am– Morning start. 5K race through Kaleidoscope Park and HALL Park’s Texas Sculpture Garden, blending art and fitness. Registration $40–$50. Kaleidoscope Park, 8000 Warren Pkwy, Frisco. 972-810-0200. FriscoArts.org.

Halloween at the Heard – 6-10pm. Family-friendly Halloween with trickor-treating along Dinosaurs Live! trail, outdoor movie, and activities. $15/child (ages 3-12), $20/adult. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife

Kill Your Lawn with Crime Pays but Botany Doesn’t – 6–8pm. Provocative evening of comedy and commentary on backyard lawns, hosted by botanist Joey Santore. Ages 18+. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org. Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. HeardMuseum.org/Halloween-At-The-Heard.

Friday, October 24

Community Resource & Wellness Expo –10am–1pm. Health, fitness and resource booths, screenings and interactive sessions. Free.\ RSVP Serves. Golden Triangle Mall, Denton, TX. RSVPServes.org.

Saturday, October 25

Dialogue: Art & Fun in the Meadow –9am–Noon. Sculpture exhibition, hayrides, native grass maze and children’s crafts. Free. Connemara Meadow Nature Preserve, Plano. 469-200-4085. ConnemaraConservancy.org.

Sunday, October 26

Frisco Festival of Lights: Diwali Cel‑ ebration – 3-11pm. Community Diwali festival with cultural performances, Ram Leela, fireworks, Diwali Bazaar, food vendors, and kids’ activities. Free. Kaleidoscope Park, 6635 Warren Pkwy, Frisco. FriscoDiwali.org.

Denton-Collin-Grayson-Cooke

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.

ACUPUNCTURE & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

SACRED HEALING ACUPUNCTURE

Kelly Urtiaga, Lac, Dipl. OM 5310 Harvest Hill Rd Ste 135, Dallas SacredHealingAcu.com 214-471-5577

Experience holistic healing at Sacred Healing Acupuncture. Specializing in reproductive health, mental wellness, chronic pain, and micro-needling, we offer acupuncture, cupping, and herbal consultations. Our integrative approach promotes natural balance, well-being, and rejuvenation, providing a sanctuary for your health journey.

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. See ad, page 3.

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.

ECO TOURISM

FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER 2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose 254-897-2960

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.

Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.

—Jim Bishop

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.

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.

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.

HAND CRAFTED GOODS

ROXANE & CO

Handcrafted Goods RoxaneAndCo.com Info@RoxaneAndCo.com 469-216-0389

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.

Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.

—Eleanor Roosevelt

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 22.

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 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 25.

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

CHTHE

RESTAURANTS

CELEBRATION RESTAURANT

4503 West Lovers Lane, Dallas 214-351-5681

CelebrationRestaurant.com

You Can Feel Good About!

Dallas’

The original farm-to-table restaurant in north Texas, including catering and takeout Market. With a full -service bar, we celebrate years of serving delicious, affordable, locally sourced food. We offer gluten free alternatives, clean water raised salmon and sustainably raised seafood, cage free poultry and 100% grass fed beef. Come in today, order in or take-out. See ad, page 20.

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.

SUPPLEMENTS AND NUTRITION

TOTAL NUTRITION & CBD

5706 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75206

469-334-0006

TotalNutritionMockingbird.com

Discover the power of natural wellness through our wide selection of premium vitamins, supplements, bodybuilding products and CBD products including chocolates, pain cream, flowers+ cryotherapy. Family owned and operated, our expert staff provides personalized guidance to support pain relief, stress management, and overall health. Elevate your well-being with high-quality, lab-tested solutions tailored to your individual needs.

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. See ad on back cover.

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 22.

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

RoxaneAnCco.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.

LOCATED AT 9AM - 1PM WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS COMMUNITY YEAR-ROUND | EVERY SATURDAY FRESH PRODUCE HANDMADE GOODS VIBRANT COMMUNITY CULTURE

317 W. MULBERRY ST. DENTON, TX

WINTER MARKET WILL BE HELD INDOORS AT THE DENTON CIVIC CENTER BEGINNING EACH SATURDAY IN JANUARY AND THE LAST SATURDAY IN FEBUARAY 2026 AT 321 E. MCKINNEY ST. DENTON, TX

@COMMUNITYMARKET KEEP UP WITH OUR MARKET HERE!

Mark the arrival of the Silver Line at one of our station celebrations!

Join the fun as we launch the Silver Line with food, festivities and surprises at every stop! Saturday, October 25 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Plus, enjoy FREE rides systemwide so you can check out every station celebration!

There’s more! DART is offering FREE rides on the Silver Line October 25 – November 8.