TOYLAND FOR POOCHES

Choosing Safe Playthings a Dog Will Love

by Karen Shaw Becker

Most healthy dogs retain their love of play throughout their lives. Because canine family members can be loosely compared to perpetual human toddlers, it makes sense that they enjoy playtime no matter their age.

Most dogs are also fascinated, at least temporarily, with toys made just for them. Some love to chase a ball or Frisbee and others like a good game of tug or stuffed toys. Most dogs seem to enjoy playthings that squeak when they bite them, possibly because the noise brings to mind the sound of captured prey, or perhaps because pet parents give their dogs extra attention when they “get their squeak on”.

Most dogs in the U.S. have lots of toys, and many pet parents practice trial-and-error to determine what type their dog prefers—and which are safest—from a mind-blowing selection of tugs, balls, discs, chews, puzzles, squeaky or stuffed toys and more. Because many pet stores welcome dogs, some pet parents even bring their four-legged family members along and allow them to sniff out their favorites.

It’s important to select a dog’s toys carefully, because not every option is a good choice. For example, some dogs, especially large breeds, tend to rip soft toys apart within seconds to taste-test the stuffing. There are also dogs that can swallow small soft toys whole. A pup’s temperament, size and age all play a role in determining which toys are safe, and there are also considerations based on the toy itself, such as materials used, size, shape and more.

Potentially Toxic Toys

Pet toys are not regulated, so they can be made with virtually any material. Plastic toys, in particular, can be dangerous, because many contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol-A (BPA). Old or weathered toys such as those left outside leach higher concentrations of harmful chemicals.

While BPA-free toys are available, the toxin may have been replaced with similar—or even more toxic—chemicals, including bisphenol-S (BPS), so “BPA-free” unfortunately isn’t a reliable indicator of toy safety. Other adulterants found in dog toys include

heavy metals like lead and formaldehyde.

When looking for new toys, choose those made in the U.S. out of 100 percent natural rubber, organic cotton or other eco-friendly and contaminant-free materials. Try the sniff test. If a toy being considered smells strongly of chemicals, put it back. Testing shows that some tennis balls made for pets contain more contaminants than those made for sports.

The best toys for pets are usually hand- made by individuals or very small companies and can be found at local farmers’ markets or sold regionally in small, independent pet stores. There’s no plethora of companies that produce 100 percent organic toys, but some great, all-natural toys can be found online.

What Dogs Seem to Prefer

Researchers have discovered that regardless of the type of toy, once a dog is completely familiar with the sight, sound, smell and feel of it, boredom can set in. In addition, we may want to avoid “indestructible” toys the dog can’t make a dent in, because they enjoy toys they can pull apart and destroy, or those that are edible.

Offering a dog easily destroyed toys isn’t ideal, either, as they may accidently or intentionally ingest some of the non-edible pieces. A good alternative is recreational bones (large, raw chunks of beef and bison femur bones), which are quite enjoyable to most dogs, even though they’re not technically toys. Lick mats that hold a soft food treat are also a great environmental enrichment choice for dogs that tend to destroy toys quickly.

Treat-release puzzle toys, toys meant to be chewed and those that make noise or are edible (like a nontoxic dental bone) can also be good options, while toys that are hard, unyielding and silent will probably not be a big hit.

Don’t underestimate our human ability to stimulate a dog’s interests. A session of playtime—playing fetch, tug-of-war or hide-andseek—will be far more stimulating to the pup than any toy could be.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

Tips for Selecting Safe Dog Toys

These guidelines compiled by VetStreet.com are recommended by veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker to help in choosing toys that will keep a dog not only happy, but safe.

n Choose toys that are the right size for your dog. Giving a small toy to a large dog poses a risk of inhalation and choking. Small balls are especially dangerous, as they can easily become lodged in your dog’s trachea. Generally speaking, you should choose large toys for large dogs and smaller toys only for smaller dogs. n Avoid toys that have small parts that can be chewed or pulled off and those with sharp edges or that can be chewed into sharp points. n When playing fetch, avoid toys that are heavy or hard enough to damage your dog’s teeth or injure him. n If your dog likes to de-stuff toys, be sure he’s not eating the stuffing. Some dogs really enjoy stuffing-free toys.

Toys That Require Close Supervision

n Long, rope-like or tug toys, since they can become wrapped around your dog’s neck n Squeaky toys if your dog likes to play “rip out the squeaker” n Battery-operated toys, because if your dog manages to get the batteries out and swallows them, it can result in battery toxicosis n Tennis balls, which can be a choking hazard for large dogs, and the abrasive fuzz may wear down the teeth of an aggressive or persistent chewer n Frisbees and similar flying discs that may cause your dog to jump up and twist simultaneously, which can lead to leg and back injuries

Toys to Avoid

n String, ribbon, pantyhose, socks and rubber bands, all of which can be swallowed and cause life-threatening complications in the digestive tract n Children’s toys (such as stuffed animals); they’re not designed to withstand the type of play dogs engage in n Toys stuffed with beads or beans n Rocks and sticks n Containers (including bags) large enough for your dog to put his head in; if it becomes stuck, he can suffocate n Tug toys for dogs with neck or back problems, such as herniated disks n Rubber toys with a hole in only one end, as they can form a vacuum that catches your dog’s tongue n Rawhide chews aren’t recommended for several reasons, including that they pose a high risk of choking and intestinal obstruction

CASA Information Session – CASA volunteers (court appointed special advocates) are ordinary people who have the opportunity to influence a foster child’s life across many significant and far-reaching life concerns such as medical care, academics, and enrichment activities. Individuals with a desire to help children and a willingness to commit themselves to a foster child in need of the unique one-on-one attention of a CASA volunteer. The first step to becoming a volunteer is to attend an information session. Email Volunteer Coordinator Clare Daley: CDaley@hudsoncountycasa.org.

Healing Meditation, Restorative Yoga and Reiki

– THC is a favorite space to experience healing through connection, meditation, and movement. We offer guided meditations, Yin Yoga, mat based experiences, rhythm based cycling and expansive workshops to support your healing journey. The Healing Center, 80 River St, Ste 5A, Hoboken. 973-216-2492. TheHealingCenterHoboken.com. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1

Joy Of Breathing – Wed through Dec. 6-6:30pm. The transformational breathing technique works to quickly and effectively allow you to access a deeper, more conscious connection with the body, mind, heart and spirit. Learn to access deep meditative states of consciousness and how to breath naturally and fully with this simple and effective method, and breathe your way to greater health, vitality, peace and joy. Virtual event, free. EventBrite.com. Community Knit Night – Weds, 7-9pm. Fun conversation and working together by Zoom on fiber crafts! Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, spinning, weaving or whatever craft you’re enjoying at the moment. Register online for the event and you’ll be sent the meeting invite which includes the Zoom code as well as the weekly Theme of the Week. ShopYarnia.com. Social Chess Night and Open Play – Weds 6:3010pm. An adult social chess night for all levels, ages 18 and up. Basic instructions for beginners from 6:30pm-7pm. Play Hoboken also offers an abundance of fun activities including golf, billiards, ping pong, board games, darts and more. Food and beverages are available for purchase and it is a BYOB facility if anyone wishes to bring beer or wine. Pay what you can. Play Hoboken, 1012 Grand St, 3rd, Hoboken. HobokenChess.com. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2

A Message from the Underground: Special Exhi-

bition – Thu, Fri by appointment. Mana Contemporary’s special exhibitions – Message from the Underground, 44 Signs of the Times, Dawn Clements, Living Large: A Survey, Implied Scale: Confronting the Enormity of Climate Change, and Ruth Hardinger: Transcending Fields - are currently on view by appointment only, through engaging tours. Reserve your spot online. Mana Contemporary, 888 Newark Ave, Jersey City.ManaContemporary.com.

Hope and Healing: Virtual Support Group for

Post-COVID Patients – Thurs, 6pm. RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery’s Hope and Healing Program offers emotional support services, education and community-based resources for individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a variety of services, this program aims to assist those impacted by the pandemic to better adjust to their new reality, mitigate stress, review options, develop coping strategies, and, if needed, find linkages to agencies, programs, and other resources in their community. Topics for this group include mindfulness, anticipation/anxiety, the middle space, re-entry and recovery. Free. Zoom Meeting ID: 819 4858 5734. Passcode: 486847. Hoboken Talks – Dec 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. 7-8pm. The Hoboken Museum offers a live-streamed program - Hoboken Talks! - streamed live on YouTube, as well as Facebook and Twitter. Viewers can submit questions using the chat feature. YouTube.com/ User/HobokenMuseum. See the website for other social media links to bookmark your preferred channel. Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St, Hoboken. 201-656-2240. HobokenMuseum.org.

Inspiration Trap: A Unique Workshop of Cre-

ative Arts – Thur through Dec. 6, 7, and ‪8pm‬. This unique workshop seeks to reclaim our inspiration and imagination, rethink the unthinkable. It is ideal for people working in the creative arts as well as students, entrepreneurs, team managers, corporate leaders and anyone looking to implement their creative vision. Feel free to bring along a personal object, a piece of clothing or even a small piece of furniture to play with during this hands-on experiment in innovative thinking. Please sign up for the sessions on Eventbrite. $30. Issyra Gallery, 300 Observer Highway, Hoboken. HOHA Run – Thursdays, 7:40pm. The Hoboken Harriers Running Club, a diverse group of runners/ joggers, welcomes runners of all abilities for a 5.2-mile run. 6th Street & Washington, Hoboken. Libations: Moran’s Pub. Info: HOHA.net. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3

Friday Storytime at the Museum – Fridays 10:30-11:45am. Museum staff and other guest readers share stories, rhymes and sing-alongs with children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. The program is open to all on a first-come, first-served basis; children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. $5 donation appreciated. Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St, Hoboken. 201-656-2240. HobokenMuseum.org. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4

Headstand Magic – 4-6pm. Known as the “king of the asanas” for its remarkable benefits, SirsasanaHeadstand increases circulation, strengthens the respiratory system and heart, boosts memory, concentration and intellectual capacity, and promotes relaxation. Learn how to safely and mindfully practice Headstand under the guidance of Radha Devi with specific techniques for balancing. This multi-tasking inversion also relieves varicose veins and constipation, counteracts nervous disorders and anxiety. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, 4th Floor, Hoboken. UrbanSoulsYoga.com.

Falun Dafa (Falun Gong) Meditation & Qigong

– Sat & Sun through Dec. 6:50-8:50am. A selfcultivation practice based on the Buddha school of teachings, Falun Dafa consists of four standing qigong exercises (similar to tai chi) and a seated meditation. Besides the exercises, practitioners seek to refine their character by improving themselves in everyday life. Pier A Park, 100 Sinatra Dr, Hoboken. FalunDafa.org. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5

Love Peace Harmony Healing for Humanity – Sun through Dec 26. 3-4pm. Experience the power of Love Peace Harmony to benefit your health, relationships, and your work life. Acquire powerful new tools for nurturing your health and creating more success in every aspect of your life. Hear from participants who have had life changing results from these simple and practical meditations and selfhealing practices. In these powerful, experiential sessions, you will learn the simple, practical tools of Love Peace Harmony song, meditation, and Tao Calligraphy tracing. These simple, easy to learn

mark your calendar

Sunday December 5, 12, 19 11am-4pm

MS Pops Holiday Market

A varied collection of local makers and artists offering their unique, hand-crafted creations, fashion, accessories, jewelry, bath products, pet products, home goods, fine art, photography. Open-Air Artisan Market provides a public venue in Hoboken for high quality artisans and makers to sell their handmade goods as well as for local residents to enjoy their neighborhood, view art, and engage with one another.schedule: FiveLightsCenter.com/Class-Schedules.

Under the 14th St. Viaduct (5th &12th)

Lackawanna Ferry Terminal (19th)

techniques balance and harmonize soul, heart, mind and body. Virtual event. EventBrite.com. Media News For/About Kids – Sun through Dec. 6pm. A radio show hosted by a nationwide team of more than 60 youth entertainment reporters, ages 8 to 21, who attend press screenings, press junkets, premieres and red carpets and other media events. They give you the latest news about media for kids, by kids. Before you spend your hard-earned money at the movies, listen to what they have to say.VoiceAmerica. com/Show/1950/Kids-First-Coming-Attractions. MONDAY, DECEMBER 6

Book Club Discussion: The Midnight Library, by

Matt Haig – 5:30-7pm. When the death of her cat proves the final straw, Nora decides to check out on life, and finds herself at the Midnight Library. “Even death was something Nora couldn’t do properly, it seemed.” But each book at this library tells the story of a life she could have had. Part It’s a Wonderful Life, part Oona Out of Order, this charming, funny, inventive novel is about regret, the choices we make, and taking the bitter with the sweet. Free; register online. Amelia’s Bistro, 187 Warren St, Jersey City. Meetup.com/JC-BookClub/. College Support Group – Mon, 6pm. RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery offers emotional support services, education and community-based resources for individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the College Support Group students share experiences, receive support, and enhance personal strengths together. Zoom Meeting ID: 891 5785 0811. Passcode: 149209.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Children’s Art Classes– Through Dec. 10am-1pm. Classes take place three days a week – Tues, Thurs, Fri – for fun art making in the Museum walkway. Recommended for ages 2-5. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Art materials are provided; adults must wear masks and maintain social distance. Seating available first-come, first-served. Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St, Hoboken. 201-656-2240. HobokenMuseum.org. Meditation and Chair Yoga– Tues, 6pm. Through a variety of services, RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery offers emotional support services, education and community-based resources for individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Meditation and Chair Yoga learn how to calm your mind, reduce negative emotions and manage stress. Free. 929-205-6099. Zoom Meeting ID: 867 5859 1787. Passcode: BHealthy. Shamanic Sound Journey – 7:30-9pm. In studio & livestream. Leigh Higgins leads a sound immersion for the soul, using vocals and a variety of ancient instruments to shift our inner and outer perspective, helping discover our spirit guides and soul’s path. At the core of this path are experiential practices that lead to a deeper understanding of who we are. By exploring these practices personally and as a community, we learn to access the wisdom of spirit and make changes that enable us to feel fully connected. $25/livestream, $35/in studio. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, Fourth Fl, Hoboken. To register: 201-683-4002. UrbanSoulsYoga.com. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8

Hudson ELC Virtual Meeting – 9-10am. Employer Legislative Committee meetings are opportunities for the business community to speak directly with policy makers from throughout the state. Please join us for the next in our ongoing series of updates on current legislative events in New Jersey and Hudson County. The speaker will be the Hon. Steven M. Fulop, Mayor of Jersey City. Also joining will be the New Jersey Business & Industry Association. HudsonChamber.org/Events. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9

Celiac Disease & Gluten Free Support Group

Meeting – 5:30-6:30pm. Saint Barnabas Medical Center hosts. This virtual group, led by Michelle Pasia, MPH, RDN, Program Coordinator of The Kogan Celiac Center, is for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity as well as their loved ones who would like to learn more. It is designed to share and learn about what is new in the gluten-free world through conversation, recipes, tip exchanges and educational presentations. Home chef and pie enthusiast Alicia Fritter from the Madison Area Gluten Intolerance Club will walk through making gluten-free homemade piecrusts. Advanced online registration is required by visiting: RWJBH.org/Events FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10

Emergence, Mile Square Theatre – Dec 10 and 11. 8pm. MST presents its first in-person performance in nearly 20 months. Broadway star, songwriter and Hoboken local Margo Seibert will present an original solo show filled with musical theatre, folk rock and her own original music. Emergence explores our transformation as we emerge from the pandemic and remember that we are undoubtedly better together. NOTE: Audience members will require to be masked and show CDC proof of valid COVID vaccination or negative test. $30. Recommended for ages 14+. Mile Square Theatre, 1400 Clinton St, Hoboken. MileSquareTheatre.org. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11

Neighborhood Community Dinner – 6-8pm. Join your neighbors from around the Hoboken community for a potluck dinner at (Hoboken Housing). The idea is to build relationships, strengthen community, and tear down the walls that needlessly divide.Free, bring a dish. Christopher Columbus Gardens, 455 9th St, the entrance is in the rear of the 9th St building, Hoboken. Rev. Matt Lytikainen 201-754-5271. MileSquare.Church. MONDAY, DECEMBER 13

College Support Group – 6pm. RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention and Recovery offers emotional support services, education and community-based resources for individuals and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the College Support Group students share experiences, receive support, and enhance personal strengths together. 929-205-6099. Zoom: Meeting ID: 891 5785 0811. Passcode: 149209. Health and Happiness Workshop – 7-8:30pm. Learn effortless techniques to manage your stress and increase your energy levels. The Art of Living brings you this free holistic and integrated workshop

mark your calendar

December 11 & 12 The Kennedy Dancers 2021 Holiday Showcase

Dec 11, 7pm: Dec 12, 3pm. Kennedy Dancers, Inc are happy to announce their return to live indoor performances. The Holiday Showcase will feature performances by the Kennedy Dancers Repertory Company. Additionally, members of the award-winning Kennedy Dancers Inner City Youth Pre-Professional Company will be performing their new choreographies. These young women and men are all scholarship students. Kennedy Dancers will also feature little ballerinas from their dance school. There will be a Holiday/Christmas Treat reception following the performances. $20, $15 for children under 12. Tickets must be purchased in person at 79 Central Avenue, Jersey City. Call 201-659-2190 with questions.

which will provide unique tools and techniques which help combat stress accumulated in our daily, modern life. Through breathing techniques and meditation taught in this workshop one feels light, energetic and enthusiastic to take on life. Free. Eventbrite.com/e/Health-And-HappinessWorkshop-Tickets-115874570961. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18

North Bergen Flea Market & Collectible Show – 9am-5pm. More than 50 exhibitors selling an array of merchandise such as back to school items, handbags, incense and oils, sports collectibles, jewelry, gift items, antiques and collectibles, garage/ tag sale items and more. Fundraiser for NJ Special Olympics. Bergenline Avenue outside Braddock Park between 90th and 79th Streets, North Bergen.

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Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAHudson.com to request our media kit.

DENTIST

LOUIS STEINBERG, DDS, MS

6050 Boulevard E, Ste LE, West New York, NJ 201-662-2020 • DrLMSteinberg.com Biological dentist offering mercury-safe dentistry, Biocompatible Restorative Dentistry and TMJ analysis and treatment. See ad on page 7.

FAMILY

ALPHAKEY CLUB

Virtual Based Jersey City, NJ info@alphakey.club • AlphaKey.club A foundation in reading is the classic predictor of academic success. But there are also certain character traits— like confidence, gratitude, integrity and patience—that are critical to success in the classroom and in life. AlphaKey Club is a holistic educational program and interactive workshops founded by ShalomIsrael Diggs, a Jersey City teacher, dancer and artist, who teaches those foundational qualities right along with the ABCs.

FASHION

ONE/SOL

1422 Grand Street, Suite 3A Hoboken, NJ 201-809-9401 • BeOneSol.com

ONE/SOL is a lifestyle boutique devoted to the wellness scene. It offers beautiful clothing and accessories to add confidence and color to someone’s wardrobe, and is also a unique haven for events, bringing all types of people and their fabulous energy together to experience parts of themselves... variations of wellness that can propel them to truly find “what makes their SOL happy”.

FITNESS

PRIME CYCLE HOBOKEN

70 Hudson St, Hoboken, NJ 201-683-6956 • PrimeCycle.com

Prime Cycle Hoboken is now offering more than 25 outdoor classes a week—from early morning to midday to evenings, including Saturday and Sunday mornings—on the Hoboken Little League field, on 5th Street. PUMP HOBOKEN

401 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ

Boutique Pilates & fitness studio located in midtown Hoboken, offering smallgroup Pilates, reformer, mat classes and one-on-one sessions (virtual until studio re-opens). With a belief that every body is unique, Pump maximizes every workout with dynamic movements that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Strengthen your body and soul and view their virtual schedule.

HEALTHY FOODS

BUSY BEE ORGANICS

451 Palisade Ave, Jersey City, NJ 201-656-5065 BusyBeeOrganics.com

Chef Michelle Berckes and her team make up Busy Bee Organics, which serves nutritious, immuneboosting eats to the local community. This healthsupportive, local eatery offers instore specials, a brand-new cafe menu & limited outdoor seating. With choices to accommodate every dietary restriction and allergy, you can expect to find delicious options for everyone - organic, plant based, customizable & 100% gluten-free.

BWÈ KAFE

1002 Washington St., Hoboken, NJ 1401 Adams St., Hoboken, NJ 140 River Dr. S, Jersey City, NJ 201-683-0045 • bwekafe.com All three locations serve drink and food menus with several fun and fresh seasonal items. Offering fresh lemonade, housemade lavender coldbrew lattes, green water detox drinks, salads and toasts, bwé kafe is always thinking of creative and tasty drinks to satisfy your health and pallet. They also source and roast their own coffee beans. Order at the door, ahead of time online, or have them deliver right to your home.

CAFE PEANUT

586 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 201-721-6270 • CafePeanut.com

Funky cafe dedicated to quality foods using locally grown, natural and organic produce. Menu selections include delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, pastries, and artisan coffees & teas.

93 Grand Street, Hoboken, NJ 201-659-0940 93 Franklin Street, Jersey City, NJ 201-968-7151 GreenPearGroup.com Green Pear Cafe is Hoboken’s healthy and innovative eating destination offering gluten free dishes, house made soups, nut milks and smoothies.Recently opened Jersey City Heights location completed their menu with European classic cuisine featuring Austro- Hungarian goulash dishes, wide variety of pickles, linzer desserts and much more. For more information, please visit greenpeargroup.com.

KEY FRESH AND NATURAL

574 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 201-204-4200

Local grocer offering huge selection of healthy products and quality brand names for the entire family. Fresh produce with many organic options, quality meats and poultry, organic baby food, grain-free and natural pet foods, non-toxic cleaning products and much more. Save time shopping in one location and get all your grocery needs met at Key Fresh and Natural. Hablamos Espanol. See ad, page 2.

PLANT BASE JC

370 Pacific Ave, Jersey City, NJ 551-256-3868 • PlantBaseMarket.com

An ethical, vegan, zerowaste market and restaurant offering a full-vegan, allday food menu, bulk groceries, organic produce, homeopathic wellness products, body care products and household products. Plant Base is also a strong community hub,known as “the living room for the hood”, where neighbors come together to share knowledge and ideas.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

ANCHOR THERAPY

223 Bloomfield St, Ste. 121, Hoboken, NJ 201-565-2275 • AnchorTherapy.org Therapy is the anchor that holds life together through choppy waters. Anchor Therapy specializes in helping teens and adults through these times. Their experience and professional skills help clients feel better sooner. Call for a free consultation. Acupuncture Atelier offers undivided personalized attention during each and every session. Sara and Samia pride themselves on being unique and adaptable. Treatments may include acupuncture, reiki, aromatherapy, moxibustion, cupping, auricular therapy, as well as ancient Shamanic healing methods.

BABY STEPS PEDIATRICS

Dr. Carmen H. Lebron 75 Montgomery Street, Ste. 401 Jersey City, NJ 201-600-4306 • LebronPeds@gmail.com BabyStepsPediatrics.com

Carmen Lebron is a fun-loving and creative pediatrician in downtown Jersey City. Our clinical approach is holistic, giving attention not just to medical issues, but integrating all aspects of the social and family environment. Dr. Lebron is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, and is a clinical homeopath.

FOOT AND ANKLE PREMIER SPECIALISTS

Dr. Juliana Paternina 70 Hudson St, Hoboken, NJ 201-659-5222 • FootandAnklePS.com

Dr. Juliana Paternina, is a board- certified Foot and Ankle Reconstructive Surgeon. She provides compassionate and comprehensive care for both adult and pediatric patients with any type of foot and ankle needs. She is well known for being thorough and for having a holistic approach. Specialties include dermatologic foot conditions, any foot and ankle deformities including bunions and hammertoes, chronic nerve pain, sports-related injuries including heel pain, fractures, sprains, and treatment of diabetic foot complications. See ad, page 27.

HABIT DISRUPTION THERAPY

Kevin Munhall m.AmSAT Hoboken, NJ 316-461-7660 • HabitDisruption.com

Identify the seemingly harmless habits of tension that we all carry with us throughout the day that can lead to aches, pains, and injury. Specialist, Kevin Munhall, will help relieve this tension and teach you how to move in line with how you are designed, with freedom and ease. By changing these habits, you are able to get to the root of the issue and can address what actually causes the pain instead of waiting for it to arrive. Dr. Laura Brayton/Dr. Olga Alvarez 113 Monroe Street, Hoboken, NJ 201-792-3544 • HobokenChiro.com

Family wellness practice, specializing in pediatrics and maternity, that strongly believe in the body’s innate intelligence and ability to heal itself when blockages to the healing process are removed. Utilizing chiropractic, soft tissue techniques, allergy elimination, nutrition/supplements, and massage, health is restored and maintained for optimal wellness.

INSPIRED TO HEALTH

85 Maple Street #3L, Weehawken, NJ 201-344-6448 • InspiredToHealth.net Dedicated to helping women de-stress and lead more healthful lives, Lorraine Giordano offers the following treatments: Quantum Touch, Quantum Energy Transformation, Reiki, Quantum Allergy Release, Age Clearing and Energy Medicine. Also specializing in helping women with female reproductive issues and helping them connect to their sacral chakra; an energetic center linked to emotions, self-care, creativity and passion. She also offers Akashic Record readings.

JACQUIE BIRD, SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

JacquieBirdWellness.com Jacquie Bird, Spiritual Wellness offers products and services that, support, guide and empower the individual. She is the author of the 7 Daily Thoughts & Mantras 4 Mindfulness eBook series; the Creator/Practitioner of Stress Busters Guided Meditations; she creates guided meditation as well as meditation music called SoundSoulVibin’ and is the Owner/Creator of the handmade wellness brand MODAL VISIONS, which is rooted in the energetically dynamic properties of gemstones, crystals and copper. Jacquie is also the Creator and host of the podcast Roll With Peace, In Mind. Her entire platform and intent is in mindfulness, personal growth, stress relief and stress management – in essence, how we can live more calm, centered, grounded and meaningful lives.

JC BUMP AND BABY

Jersey City, NJ JCBumpAndBaby.com

JC Bump and Baby connects moms through support groups, yoga classes and workshops.

LEAH CRESCENZO

917-525-3477 • HeyLeahC.com

Transformative healer who utilizes the powerful tools of Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and Hypnotherapy to improve everything from emotional to physical conditions.

7000 JFK Boulevard East Galaxy Mall, Ste. M-15, Guttenberg, NJ 201-210-4764 • LotusGenesis.com

A holistic sanctuary offering a team of healers, therapists, mind-body experts and a naturopathic doctor, who combine various modalities from energy healing, diet and nutrition, to hypnotherapy and body work. Lotus Genesis offers a full line of wellness services, from detox and weight-loss programs, to caring for more complex medical issues. Their unique focus and approach to addressing root causes allows for rapid and long-term wellness. See ad, page 35.

MIND BODY HOBOKEN

51 Newark Street, Ste. 402, Hoboken, NJ 201-994-3500 • MindBodyHoboken.com

Mind Body Hoboken works with individuals, corporate teams and small business owners to find balance in their personal and professional life. Finding the calm and peace in life is essential to balancing out the “fight or flight” response caused by stress. Founder/practitioner Jennifer Araneo utilizes neurolinguistic programming, hypnosis, meditation and reiki to help clients find the Zen in their lives.

MINDFUL PLAY YOGA

646-552-2982 MindfulPlayYoga@gmail.com

Mindful Play Yoga brings out the kid in all of us by working with children, adults & caregivers through mindfulness, play & yoga to see the best in everyone. MPY is committed to inspiring children ages 3 -15 & families to be curious life-long learners.

NALU CHIROPRACTIC

Dr Sura Devi 75 Montgomery Street, Ste. 201, Jersey City, NJ NaluChiro.com

Nalu Chiropractic is a holistic family practice with a special focus on Women’s Health and Healing. Providing unique, honoring and gentle care - body alignment for a happier and healthier life. Specializations include: fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, motherhood and pediatrics.

OLEVIA METRY, MD

Family Medicine 108 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 201-656-5688 • Linktr.ee/Dr_Olevia

Dr. Olevia Metry is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician who grew up in Florida and has made Hoboken home for 3 years. She’s passionate about preventative medicine, lifestyle medicine, women’s health and diabetes. Kelly Bonell West New York Kelly@YouWillRise.co • YouWillRise.co

Serving ambitious professionals who strivie to live their best life, but sometimes get weighed down with stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and that ‘stuck’ feeling. RISE helps clients to close the gap between stagnation and success by expanding what their mind sees as possible, helping them release limiting beliefs, and accelerating their growth. Kelly Bonell is a trained life coach who provides her clients a non-judgmental, inclusive, and trauma informed space to empower them to rise to new heights. Virtual sessions available.

SALVATION WELLNESS

30 Provost St, Jersey City, NJ 551-689-0763 • SalvationWellness.com

Salvation Wellness is a multiservice wellness center that offers services such as massage, meditation, yoga classes and sauna sessions. It also sells a variety of personal care products, including CBD bath and body items. Co-founders Celia and Andres Pender have lived in Jersey City for more than a decade. They both have been dedicated to holistic health studies and deductive, science-based, natural healing for more than two decades.

THE GREEN ROOM

109 14th St, Hoboken, NJ 64 Newark Street, Hoboken, NJ 512 Jersey Ave, Jersey City, NJ TheGreenRoomNJ.com

Newly added Jersey City location. Hoboken and Montclair’s first CBD shops that provide both in-person and online shopping. Owner Darek Michael offers education and high-quality products. The Green Room is open Sunday through Thursday 11am-8pm and Fri and Sat 11am-10pm in Jersey City and Monclair.

VICTORIA REED MASSAGE THERAPY

Victoria Radzinski, LMT, CPT 201-551-7154 • VictoriaReed.Info@gmail.com VictoriaReedMassageTherapy.com

As a licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Personal Trainer and Yoga instructor, Victoria’s healing and relaxing services reverse the effects of daily stress by repairing damaged muscle tissue to eliminate aches and pains throughout the body. Improve circulation, detoxify your body, and increase mental alertness as you decompress with her carefully designed massages. Victoria’s drive behind her work stems from her observations on today’s lifestyle/living. See ad, page 17. Jersey City, NJ ASmallGreenSpace.com

A Small Green Space is an urban garden design firm, specializing in designing, installing and maintaining small city spaces.

PETS

GALLA WELLNESS

Florentina Galla, Rdh.MS GallaWellness.com

Florentina has been using holistic care and reiki healing for decades and now is providing that for pets. She provides pet healing and holistic pet nutrition. She’s using gentle touching if an area is in pain after trauma and to reduce the healing time; she offers customized nutrition and supplement needs to manage stress and weight gain based on the pets need. She is a regular volunteer at North Star Animal Rescue and is the author of Confessions of a Holistic Hygienist in a New Era of Wellness.

HOLISTIC PET CARE

125 Paterson Avenue, Little Falls, NJ 973-256-3899 • HolisticPetCareNJ.com Holistic Pet Care of Little Falls provides guidance on optimum diet and environment, and how to minimizing negative elements/toxins to keep your pet healthier and living longer. Holistic and complementary modalities include acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, homeopathy, bach flow remedies, herbal therapies (western, chinese & ayurvedic), nutritional therapy, ozone therapy, cold laser therapy, and reiki for addressing problems and for preventive care.

PAWTANICALS

7622 Broadway, North Bergen, NJ 201-520-3036 • Pawtanicals.com

Pawtanicals was established to give pet owners the accessibility of washing their pets without space constraints–as they normally would do at home in their bath tubs. It allows for pet owners to create a stronger bonding experience while simultaneously making their pets feel safe and secure having their owners personally wash them.

Crossword key on page 7

ACROSS

1 Join together 5 Fruit drink 8 GIs’ entertainment grp., abbr. 10 Green citrus fruits full of vitamin C 11 Not as serious 12 Group that handle medical emergencies, abbr. 13 Include, in a recipe. e.g. 14 Harmful substance to the immune system included in many foods 16 ___-bran cereal 18 Paying attention to what someone else is saying 21 401(k) alternative 22 Panax Ginseng is one 25 Artist equipment 30 Feeling of deep admiration as described in a famous Aretha Franklin song 33 Rushed headlong 34 Signature writer 35 Famous spiritual leader, 2 words 36 Galas

DOWN

1 Work with others to forward good goals 2 Wanderer 3 Relieved pain 4 Another name for holy basil 5 Exercise lightly 6 Honesty- vital quality in relationships and work 7 Musical ability 9 Spanish for yes 14 Glitter 15 Controls 17 Peppermint or chamomile drink 18 Started a campfire 19 Mineral which is a recommended as a remedy for anemia 20 Droop 23 Day before an event 24 Imitate 26 “One Day __ Time”, 2 words 27 Spanish for sun 28 Historical period 29 Hawaiian flower wreath 30 Essential cell strand, abbr. 31 Resort to relax in 32 Complete

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