July 2023

REGENERATIVE ORGANIC CONNECTIONS

• Dry salt therapy (halotherapy) is a natural, drug-free treatment that may help combat various respiratory and skin conditions.

• Helps supports the immune, nervous and lymphatic systems.

• Reduces stress and headaches, increases energy and improves sleep patterns.

• Increases lung capacity & reduces physical ailments for adults, children & athletes.

•These sessions are recommended to keep the body healthy and also clear all pollutants and toxins of the lungs during flu, and allergy seasons.

n Trained in Facials for Every Skin Type on Men, Woman, and Teenagers.

n New Jersey State Licensed Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist- 2018

n Area of Expertise ~ Waxing, Microneedling, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peeling, LED Face Mask and Infrared Treatments, Celluma Pro, LED Phototherapy, Super Frecator, High Frequency, Hydrating Lip and Hand Treatment, Antioxidant Lip Treatment, Pressotherapy System and Corporal Treatments.

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Anil Singh

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©2023 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.

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A Summer We Can Finally Enjoy

Like that the first half of year has passed; not complaining, it was one of the best years so far. The hot weather makes us feel good and more energetic to go outdoors. Things have been by far positive and seems to be headed in the right direction. Changes are happening fast and awareness is becoming an easily accessible commodity.

A few weeks back we had very poor air quality due to wildfires in Canada. That was a stark reminder that global warming or pollution in general is not a local problem. We have all share one environment. Someone making it worse in one place will not leave even faraway communities untouched. Above-normal temperature in the spring also point to the perils of climate change. We all must do our little bit when possible. Check out “Regenerative Techniques for a Healthy Ecosystem.” It lays out simple, yet effective techniques for controlling greenhouse gases in our own backyard.

This is the most important time for us to be outdoors, whether at a park or our own backyard. “Green Exercise – Connecting with Nature” outlines ways to spend time outside and become fitter and stronger. That’s a win-win! We all know someone in family or friends who have allergy and reactions, and “Too Much Histamine” guides us to using natural ways to address allergic responses.

Natural Awakenings of Hudson County is your all-season health and wellness resource for body, mind and soul—the physical body and inner, spiritual, well-being. Like us on Facebook and Instagram. Find even more great information in our online edition at NAHudson.com

Stay Healthy, Stay Happy!

Anil Singh, Publisher

Northern New Jersey Natural Awakenings publisher Anil Singh and his wife Vartika

Natural Awakenings Hudson County NJ namaghudson

Natural Awakenings is a family of nearly 50 healthy living magazines celebrating 28 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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READERSHIP SURVEY

21% purchase from our advertisers between 1 and 3 times per month

34.2% share their copy with 2 or more additional readers

84.7% are female 47.7% between 35 and 54 years of age

60% have one or more college degrees

88.1% purchase healthy or organic food

47.1% regularly attend spiritual or healing events

47.4% regularly attend exercise or fitness events

Taking it to the Street

The Nyack Famous Street Fair shopping and dining event on July 9 features more than 300 booths with arts, crafts, new retail, home decor and unique gifts until 10 p.m. downtown. Music will play all day at the gazebo on Main Street and the corner of Main and Broadway.

Delicious festival foods include Cousins Lobster Truck, NY Soda Jerks with old-fashioned egg crème and other outdoor cafes on Main Street.

Sponsored by ACADA of Nyack. No pets are allowed. For more information, visit PJsPromotions.com.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

For those that feel stressed, tired, anxious or worried and can’t seem to shut off their mind no matter what they try, an Access Bars session can reduce the noise in their head without having to meditate for hours, releasing disharmonious thoughts and behavior patterns while allowing greater possibilities into their life.

Access

Bars is a gentle treatment using light touch on the head. No matter what age, everyone has the potential to benefit greatly from an Access Bars session. Trusted by many, this gentle, innovative energy process is practiced in more than 100 countries with positive results.

Location: Paramus. To preregister (required) or book a private session, call 201-655-3836.. For more information, visit AccessConsciousness.com or citm-drfinn.com. See ad, page 7.

Wellness Wednesdays and Salty Saturdays at the Salt Cave

Salt of the Earth Center for Healing is providing half-price ($20) salt cave sessions every Wednesday and Saturday in July and August. The goal of Susan Toron, DC, and health coach Sheryl Silver, MS, is to bring the community a variety of natural healing treatments that complement traditional therapies in order to meet clients’ health and wellness needs.

Location: 811 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY. For appointments and more information, call 845-290-0678 or visit SaltOfTheEarthCFH.com.

Discover Life Changing ACCESS BARS® Sessions

The Bars are 32 points on the head that when lightly touched releases old energies that keep you stuck in many areas of your life, allowing for tremendous and easy change.

Close Relationships May Influence Physical Well-Being

A new study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science has found that a person’s close relationships may either benefit or undermine physical health. The three-week study involving 4,005 participants looked at how both positive and negative relationship experiences affect the body, and how daily fluctuations in those interactions may influence changes in well-being, as reflected in self-reported stress levels and coping abilities, as well as blood pressure and heart rate reactivity biomarkers.

The researchers observed that people with more positive experiences and fewer negative ones reported lower stress, improved coping skills and better physical functioning. They also noted that ups and downs in negative relationships were especially predictive of outcomes like stress, coping and overall systolic blood pressure.

Seniors Want Fewer Prescriptions

Mislabeled Melatonin Gummies

New research published in JAMA Network found that melatonin gummies may contain far more of the dietary sleep aid supplement than what is indicated on the label. Researchers from Cambridge Health Alliance and the University of Mississippi analyzed 25 different melatonin gummies and found that 22 contained a greater amount of melatonin than stated on the label. One product contained only three-quarters of the amount advertised on the label, another contained 347 percent more than what was listed, and one product contained no detectable melatonin.

These concerns come on the heels of a 2022 report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which found a 530 percent increase in the number of accidental pediatric ingestions of melatonin reported to U.S. poison control centers over the last decade, resulting in 27,795 emergency department and clinic visits, 4,097 hospitalizations, 287 intensive care unit admissions and two deaths. Most ingestions were unintentional (94.3 percent). Among those children with reported symptoms from accidental melatonin ingestion, most involved the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular or central nervous systems.

willing to stop taking one or more drugs if their healthcare provider said it was possible, and 26 percent had already stopped taking at least one drug they had been taking for more than a year. When asked which meds they would be most interested in stopping, 43 percent named their heart disease pills for high blood pressure or high cholesterol, 13 percent mentioned diabetes medicines and 10 percent included pain management prescriptions.

In a new National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan involving adults aged 50 to 80, the vast majority of respondents expressed an interest in cutting back on prescription medications. Eighty percent would be

These results reflect a growing trend dubbed “deprescribing”. According to Deprescribing.org, a researcher-led online resource, it is the planned process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be of benefit or could be causing harm. The goal is to reduce medication burden or harm while improving quality of life. Seniors interested in cutting down on the drugs they are taking should consult their healthcare provider to ensure it is safe and helpful to do so.

Angel Alexis LunaLarios/ShutterStock.com

Photo by 13MoonsPublishingServices.com

Tips for Aging Gracefully

The process of aging is a natural and unavoidable aspect of life. As we journey through the different stages, it is essential to prioritize our health and well-being to age gracefully. While genetics play a role in the aging process, our lifestyle choices can significantly impact how we age. By adopting healthy habits and making conscious decisions, we can enhance our quality of life and maintain optimal health well into our golden years, embracing graceful aging while nurturing our physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Prioritize Physical Activity

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining overall health and vitality as we age. Engaging in physical activity helps to strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular health, enhance flexibility and boost mood. Aim for a combination of aerobic exercises like walking, swimming or cycling, and strength training activities such as weightlifting or yoga. Consult with a healthcare professional to create a tailored exercise plan suitable for individual ability and health condition.

Nourish the Body with a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet plays a pivotal role in aging gracefully. Emphasize nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats that provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support the immune system, maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Stay adequately hydrated and limit the consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks and excessive sodium. Consulting a registered dietitian can help create a personalized diet plan.

Get Sufficient Sleep

Restful sleep is essential for rejuvenating the body and mind. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep every night. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a soothing bedtime routine and ensure the sleeping environment is comfortable and free from distractions. Avoid excessive caffeine in-

take, limit screen time before bed and consider relaxation tech niques such as meditation or reading to unwind and promote better sleep.

Maintain Brain Health

As we age, it becomes increas ingly important to prioritize brain health. Engage in activities that challenge and stimulate the mind such as puzzles, reading, learning a new skill or playing musical instruments. Social interaction is also vital for cognitive function, so stay connected with friends, family and the community. Additionally, manage stress levels through practices like meditation or mindfulness, as chronic stress can negatively impact brain health.

Care for Emotional Well-being:

Nurturing emotional well-being is key to aging gracefully. Engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, like pursuing a hobby, volunteering or spending quality time with loved ones. Seek emotional sup port when needed, whether through close relationships, support groups or profes sional therapy. Practice self-care and selfcompassion, and prioritize activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Regular Health Screenings

Maintaining regular health check-ups and screenings is crucial for early detection and prevention of age-related conditions. Consult a healthcare provider for recommended screenings such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, bone density, cancer screenings, and vision and hearing tests. Stay up to date with vaccinations and discuss any concerns or changes in health with a healthcare professional.

Stay Socially Active

Maintaining social connections and a robust support system is vital for overall wellbeing. Stay involved in social activities, join clubs or organizations and make an effort to spend time with friends and family. Loneliness and social isolation can lead to mental and physical health problems,

steps to prioritize health and well-being as we grow older. By incorporating regular exercise, a healthy diet, quality sleep, brain-stimulating activities, emotional care and regular health screenings, we can enhance our overall quality of life. Remember, aging is a journey to be embraced with gratitude and self-care. Embrace the wisdom and experience that comes with age, and make choices that empower us to live our best life at every stage.

Our Infinite Potential

by Anne Deatly

The truth is that we all, including the geniuses and experts in the world, have barely scratched the surface of our full potential in this physical world. We all have access to divine intelligence in universal consciousness. We have access to all the knowledge, intelligence and wisdom there has been or will be, and all the innovative future ideas. But most of us don’t know how to access it, even though we are ‘it’. We aren’t separate from divine intelligence and the universal consciousness; we are divine intelligence and universal consciousness.

The truth is we have access to anything we want. We may have to manifest it if isn’t physically available to us in the moment. Using the universal law of perpetual transmutation of energy will help us manifest what we truly desire. We can think of it as tapping into our infinite potential to communicate to the reality beyond the physical.

What can block the access to infinite potential is the concept we have about ourselves, because it creates the world we live in and all aspects of our lives. We believe in our self-limitations and unworthiness, but the divine created us as magnificent to express our magnitude.

Most of us sabotage ourselves with what we focus on and our negative thoughts. We focus on what isn’t going right in our lives. We focus on unhappy situations of our past. These memories bring up pain, sadness and unhappiness. The past is done, we cannot change it, but we keep the past alive in our minds and energy fields. How we think and feel creates our state of being, level of consciousness and vibrational frequency. If we keep recreating the sadness and unhappiness of the past, we will create the same things in the present and future.

Keeping alive past memories is an unconscious habit of our subconscious mind. We tell ourselves sad stories that aren’t true. Because our conditioning, or programming, sees the less-than-ideal situation, we have less-than-ideal results. This negative habit is clearly not the way to tap into our infinite potential, create our heart’s desires and perform our specific magnificent function. Performing at our highest potential, we are aligning with our divine intention. Creating a different picture in our minds will yield more positive results. We can set our own intentions with a different visualization—to see the truth of who we are and what we want.

The more we recognize our divine origin, the more we will recognize and experience our divine potential. The more we understand that the divine intention for us is of high magnitude, the more we will experience our highest potential. If we only identify with the physical world, then we will abide by those laws. If we identity with the spiritual realm, then we will abide by spiritual laws.

FARMERS MARKETS

The Bayonne Farmers’ Market – The market opens from 2-7 pm. and will run every Tuesday at the same time. The market is located on West 23rd Street between Broadway and DelMonte Drive. The Bayonne Farmers’ Market aims to foster “a sense of community by bringing farmers and local businesses together right in our neighborhood.” The goal is to offer a variety of fresh foods to the community.

Downtown Jersey City Farmers’ Market – Mon & Thu through Dec. 4-8pm. The Historic Downtown Jersey City farmers’ market features various NJ vendors and local Jersey City vendors. Operating for over a decade, the Historic Downtown Jersey City Farmers Market, conveniently located by the PATH Train station and Grove Street bus stop in the heart of the historic downtown, it’s the place to get your groceries and treats! Come out and support NJ farms and businesses and get your fresh produce, pies, cookies, flowers and more. 201-547-3554. JCDowntown.org.

Dentistry Misconceptions

Dental

anxiety often arises from misconceptions about dentistry, but advancements in techniques and technology have made the field more patient-friendly and less intimidating. Although some procedures may cause discomfort, modern methods have made great advancements in pain management. Dentists today use new techniques and tools to minimize or eliminate pain during procedures, and local anesthesia is commonly administered to numb the area being treated. Other sedation dentistry techniques such as laughing gas (nitrous oxide) or oral sedation can be used to relax patients.

The fear of needles is a common phobia, but dentists now use smaller, thinner needles designed to minimize discomfort. They also use topical numbing gels to desensitize the area before administering the anesthesia. Dental drills, associated with a loud, high-pitched noise, can induce anxiety in some patients, but quieter, more efficient high-speed drills are less intimidating. Some dental clinics even offer noise-canceling headphones or play relaxing music to drown out the sound.

While certain complex treatments may require multiple visits, advancements in dentistry have made several procedures faster and more efficient. Digital imaging techniques such as 3-D scanning and CAD/CAM technology obtain detailed impressions and fabricate restorations in less time and dental lasers expedite certain procedures and reduce healing time.

Dentists and dental professionals are compassionate people, too. They understand that anxiety is a common concern and strive to create a comfortable and calming environment for patients. Cozy waiting areas, soothing decor and friendly staff all help patients feel at ease. Communication is key.

Dr. David Hanna, owner of Town Dentist, has locations at 122 E. Ridgewood Ave., in Paramus (201-345-3898); and 115 Grand Ave., in Englewood (201-304-7077). For more information, email DentistParamus@gmail.com or visit TheTownDentist.com.

Town Dentist has locations at 122 E. Ridgewood Ave., in Paramus (201-345-3898); and 115 Grand Ave., in Englewood (201-3047077). For more information, email DentistParamus@gmail.com. See ad, inside back cover.

Hamilton Park Farmer’s Market – The Farmers’ Market runs weekly through the fall. The hours will be from 4-7pm, Wednesdays in Hamilton Park, 25 West Hamilton Place, Jersey City, easily accessible on foot from Jersey City PATH stations located at Grove Street and Newport. Check the website for a list of vendors and products for sale. GNADF.com/Events/HNPA-Farmers-Market/ HDSID Farmer’s Market – The Historic Downtown Special Improvement District Farmers Market is open year-round, and the summer/fall session, begun in April, runs Mondays and Thursdays from 4-8pm. The location will remain at the Grove PATH Plaza, Newark Ave and Grove St, but will also include the “first green” area of the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Mall. Check the website for a list of vendors and products for sale. JCDowntown.org.

Hoboken Farmers Market – The Hoboken Farmers Market is open through mid-November on Tuesdays from 2-8pm. It is located between Fourth and Fifth Garden Street on the east side of Church Square Park near the Demarest School. Vendors in attendance will include Union Hill Farms, Roger’s Seafood, Melick’s Town Farm, Circle Brook Organic Farms, Pickle-Licious, Gourmet Dried Fruit and Nuts, and Hoboken Farms.

Paulus Hook Farmers Market – The Paulus Hook Farmers Market is both a farmers’ market and a CSA pickup spot for local subscribers. It is open through December on Saturdays from 10am-4pm. The Market is located at the end of Washington Street in the Morris Canal State Park next to the Korean War Memorial, in Jersey City. For more information: PaulusHook.org.

Riverview Farmer’s Market – This farmer’s market is held at Riverview-Fisk Park through November. The vendors are between Ogden & Palisade from 10am-3pm. Take a stroll through Riverview-Fisk Park (with NYC views) in Jersey City Heights and enjoy live music, and a variety of awesome vendors like Alstede Farms, Stony Hill Farms, Headquarters Farms, RH Farms, Nature’s Own, and more.

The Southwest Park Farmers Market – This farmers market is brand new to the 2022 season. Like other markets, the new market will offer an underserved neighborhood fresh vegetables, fruits, and baked goods. Where: North side of Observer Highway between Jackson Street and Harrison Street through midNovember Thursdays 2-8pm.

Uptown Farmers Market – The City of Hoboken will host the Uptown Farmers Market every Saturday, from 9am-2pm, under the 14th Street viaduct between Grand and Adams Streets, Hoboken. The market will have a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other local products. Some of the vendors in attendance are Stony Hill Farms, Cotton Cattle, Hoboken Farms, Roger’s Seafood, Pick-Licious, Choc-O-Pain and Paolo’s Kitchen. To add to the fun, there will be live music on some days.

Van Vorst Park Farmer’s Market – Van Vorst Farmers Market, Van Vorst Park, Montgomery and Jersey Avenue, Jersey City, will be open until December on Saturdays, 8am-2pm. This open-air market offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh organic and conventional fruits and vegetables, baked goods,

Functional Medicine: Who Needs It?

tion back to its pre-disease state, to prevent the evolution of disease and find deep, permanent, and hopefully non-pharmaceutical solutions.

Alternative physicians place a priority on finding the “root causes” of presenting symptoms. The name of a “disease” or condition is less important than the underlying deficiencies or excesses in the body that create health issues. By focusing on the root causes of our physical or emotional symptoms, several remarkable benefits are derived: - more permanent solutions are achieved - future health is safeguarded from new issues associated with any imbalances that had existed - long term use of medications can be avoided, and dosages can be reduced or eliminated.

Fact: Many providers of alternative/ holistic/functional medicine do not participate in insurance networks. Some physician visits are covered by outof-network benefits, but overall, anyone seeking medical treatment, healing, or wellness services outside the traditional medical system can expect that some outof-pocket expenses will be involved. So: Is holistic treatment worth the extra investment, and if so, exactly why? What is so uniquely different about this approach?

Time. In general, the holistic provider will listen carefully to the many details that contribute to your health “profile” There is an interest in diet, exercise, and the social/ psychological/environmental realities that are part of your daily life. You will not likely have a 5or 10-minute quick session; you’ll have an hour devoted to your discussion. The treatments are in-depth, and in addition, take

considerable time and effort to accomplish. Patient education on a variety of topics, including lifestyle, diet, supplements, and various physical modalities are all part of a comprehensive treatment protocol.

You will work with the holistic provider as part of a team coming up with everything from the diagnostic plan to the treatment plan as a duo, and then over time, you will continue to be coached by your provider to carry out your plan effectively.

In creating solutions every effort will be made to use options that are safe, noninvasive, and do not cause new problems while they “work”. Although pharmaceutical solutions are not ruled out, their use is limited and typically not first line. Pharmaceutical drugs have their place, but conservative, minimal use can prevent unnecessary and potentially serious complications.

A significant level of commitment is necessary to achieve the results promised by holistic medicine. as resolution of problems does take time, and many answers are not often achieved via quick fix. Unfortunately, the supplements, upgraded food, and the functional tests are not well covered even by the best insurance.

The goal is to improve or restore func-

Surely if these functional medical services were covered fully by insurance as they should be, few would likely reject the many upsides of this approach (although admittedly some might still prefer a quick-if only-modestly-effective fix.) But under the current circumstances, is it worth paying out-of-pocket for holistic/ functional health care, and taking the time to achieve deeper, longer lasting results? This is entirely a personal question for anyone contemplating a shift to non-traditional medicine.

Fact: Without solid mental, physical, and spiritual health, life simply cannot be enjoyed to its fullest. So, if experiencing the richness of life throughout one’s lifespan is a true priority, the many benefits of holistic/ functional medicine should be strongly considered.

Robin Ellen Leder, M.D. has been providing functional/ holistic medical care in her Hackensack office for over 30 years since she initially did a mentorship working with Dr. Robert Atkins, famous for the Atkins Diet. Using this approach, she has assisted thousands of patients with a wide range of medical conditions to live healthier, happier lives with minimal use of pharmaceutical drugs. Learn more at DrRobinLeder.com.

The Enchanting Gaia Goddess Lifestyle of Maria Marshall

Maria Marshall’s Gaia Goddess Lifestyle promotes a holistic approach to living in harmony with the Earth and a balanced expression with the masculine and feminine aspects of all women as they embody and awaken their true power. It also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all women and encourages self-care, spirituality and elevated consciousness.

Maria Marshall

when launching a startup, but Marshall believes the time is ripe.

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, many women are seeking solace in the arms of Mother Nature. Marshall, a captivating modern-day Gaia Goddess, has melded spirituality, education and emotional support into an ethereal lifestyle. She never imagined herself walking this path of healing the divine feminine and creating an eco-feminist community, but says, “This business was revealed to me a little at a time, because had I seen it all at once, I would have run for the hills.”

Building an expansive digital content library and curating in-person events for women to heal and collaborate together while developing a strong voice and presence across all Gaia Goddesses social media platforms and podcasts is a lot to bite off

Gaia Goddess Lifestyle is about empowerment and giving women the tools and support necessary for transformation. Having been deep in the process of transformation herself over the last eight years, Marshall has experienced firsthand all the issues that women across the globe are struggling with, such as old programs, limiting beliefs and individual experiences that keep them out of their power and innate self-worth.

Marshall is humbled by the community that Gaia Goddess is creating, and feels a deep connection to all women on their path of healing and empowerment. She plans to support members with curated weekly content that supports all aspects of the feminine—mind, body and spirit—and many in-person opportunities where women can find comfort in a community that has been designed with their needs in mind.

To become a member of the Gaia Goddess Lifestyle community, join her virtual sanctuaries and have access to free meditations and other content, visit GaiaGoddessLifestyle.com.

New Environmental Justice Initiative

Repairing the Planet’s Lungs

In April, Executive Order 12898 established the White House Office of Environmental Justice to address persistent environmental injustices involving toxic pollution, underinvestment in infrastructure and services, and other harms due to a legacy of racial and economic discrimination. The new office is tasked with coordinating efforts among federal agencies to help implement innovative directives. It requires federal agencies to notify communities in the event of a release of toxic substances; directs agencies to facilitate meaningful public participation and just treatment in agency decision-making; directs agencies to identify and address information gaps related to environmental justice and make information on environmental and health concerns more publicly accessible; and implements a scorecard to evaluate federal agencies’ environmental justice efforts.

Colombia Protects Its Birds

Colombia has the most bird species in the world—1,966 registered species, or 20 percent of all birds worldwide— and has updated its strategy for protecting this rich avian life, affecting all birds that inhabit the country at some

The oceans, sometimes called the lungs of the Earth, have absorbed 30 percent of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions since the Industrial Revolution and captured 90 percent of the related excess heat. Seawater stores about 150 times more CO2 than air. Unfortunately, absorbing all that greenhouse gas has damaged sea life.

Engineers from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed a process to cleanse the seawater of CO2 so it can store greater amounts of greenhouse gases. The process sends an electric charge into seawater flowing through tanks on a barge. The charge sets off chemical reactions to trap the greenhouse gas into a solid mineral, which is then deposited on the ocean floor, completing the cleansing process.

The engineers expect to design larger facilities based on the data obtained from their test sites in Los Angeles and Singapore and have commercial sites removing millions of tons of CO2 per year by 2025. The UCLA scientists estimate that 1,800 facilities would be needed to capture 10 billion tons of atmospheric CO2 annually beginning in 2050, thereby limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

point in their annual life cycle. The goal is to conserve and sustainably manage bird diversity, habitats and ecosystems by the generation of knowledge, scientific research and its application, the active participation of different sectors, policy and planning. The strategy focuses on 11 different Colombian ecosystems from the high Andean forests to savannas, grasslands and coastal areas.

This exhaustive process in the renewal of Colombia’s avian protection strategy involved more than 30 workshops and 2,000 people from every region of the country. Input from indigenous peoples and others generated practical conservation actions in their territories, as well as ancestral knowledge and an appreciation for the special connections these communities have with birds in their daily lives, resulting in a strategy that prioritizes the relationships between people and birds.

The Healthiest Juices in Town business spotlight

Selling Hudson County’s finest organic unpasteurized cold-pressed juices, Nute Juice will transform health and well-being. Discover the power of pure, unadulterated goodness with each sip and experience the revitalizing benefits firsthand. Co-owner Anthony Jack Puleo II says, “At Nute Juice, we understand that convenience is key. That’s why we have revolutionized the way you access made-to-order, raw and unpasteurized juice. You can select from over 13 flavors, in addition to a curated selection of detox cleanse packages. Everything is pressed fresh and delivered on your chosen delivery day. Say goodbye to the messy kitchen and hours of juicing, and say hello to hassle-free and personalized wellness with Nute Juice!”

With their convenient made-to-order delivery service, staffed and unstaffed

catering options, and a commitment to supporting the local community, Nute Juice is the go-to choice for health-conscious individuals in the area. “Hosting a special event or corporate gathering? Look no further than their topnotch catering services, advises Puleo. “Whether you prefer a staffed setup remplete with knowledgeable professionals to guide your guests through our tantalizing juice menu or an unstaffed option for a more intimate affair, Nute Juice has got you covered.” Their team of experts will work closely with clients to curate the perfect assortment of flavors, ensuring a memorable and healthconscious experience for all attendees.

Nute Juice is located at 457 Baldwin Ave., in Jersey City. For orders and more information, visit N uteJuice.com. See ad, page 2.

THE MICROBIOME CONNECTION

HOW SOIL AND HUMAN

HEALTH ARE RELATED

by Kelcie Ottoes

The human gut microbiome, which is critical to fighting off disease, and soil microbiome, which enables plant growth, are vitally important to maintaining all life on our planet. These two communities of microorganisms are indirectly connected in important ways, and researchers are trying to find out more about their interplay.

Human Microbiome

The human gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms of different species. These microbes help to digest food, synthesize vitamins and other important compounds, regulate our immune system and even influence behavior and mood.

The gut microbiome includes both helpful and potentially harmful microbiota that coexist peacefully in a healthy person. But certain diets, or the use of antibiotics or other bacteriadestroying medications, can upset the balance, a state known as dysbiosis, which can impair the microbiome’s functions, leaving the body susceptible to disease.

Soil Microbiome

The soil microbiome has many parallels to the human gut scenario. It consists of bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses—microorganisms that play an important role in maintaining the health of the soil. They do this by breaking down organic matter, cycling nutrients and protecting crops against harmful pathogens.

Regenerative organic farming practices that promote biodiversity and disdain the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers develop robust soil that is rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes. In such settings, farmers don’t need to use chemicals, because the microbiome creates disease-resistant soil to fight off threats.

The Nutrition Link

While a direct link between the soil microbiome and the gut microbiome has yet to be proven, soil certainly impacts our health through our diet. A diverse and active soil microbiome is responsible for supporting plant growth. Plants then provide us with the nutrients that our gut microbiome needs to thrive, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E, K and the B complex.

Dan Kittredge, founder of The Bionutrient Institute, explains, “The sophistication of the soil microbiome is connected to the nutritional value of the food that’s produced. The healthier the [soil] microbiome, the healthier the food.” The use of fertilizers and pesticides does not directly produce less nutritious food, but rather their impact on the health of the soil microbiome can impact the crops’ nutritional value.

There is a hypothesis that food has become less nutritious since the mid-1900s. In a 2004 study, University of Texas scientists examined the nutritional value of 43 garden crops from 1950 to 1999 and found that while all 43 foods showed a statistically reliable decline in nutrition, it was likely due to cultivating plants with desired traits, such as larger sizes, faster growing rates and increased pest resistance. It wasn’t the soil that was the problem, but that growers had not prioritized breeding crops for higher nutritional value.

Photo by Rodale Institute

According to Jack Gilbert, a pediatrics professor at the University of California San Diego and co-founder of the Earth Microbiome Project and the American Gut Project, “There is an indirect relationship between a healthy soil microbiome and healthy gut microbiome. While we need healthy soils to grow plants, a healthy soil microbiome does not equal a healthy gut microbiome.”

He explains, “The link is really about diet in the gut microbiome. Precision nutrition is the idea that how we all respond to food is unique, and that we can predict those responses if we understand what kinds of bacteria are in the gut. This is because the gut microbiome varies between people, and those same gut microbes can mediate how food influences our physiology. Eating a healthy diet can have a profound impact on reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.”

The nutritional value of food is more complicated than the quality of the soil in which the crops grow. It is also impacted by the processing of the food. As Kit-

tredge notes, when the bran in wheat is removed—a common process that turns flour white—wheat loses much of its nutritional value. Unprocessed foods allow us to access more of the nutrients within them.

Digging in the Soil

There is another way that soil microbes can benefit human health: spending time in nature. Exposure to the soil microbiome has been shown to stimulate the immune system. When outside, we are exposed to a diverse array of microorganisms that increase disease resistance and provide neurological benefits.

Gilbert has largely built a career on the benefits of getting his hands dirty. He is currently conducting a study to find out how giving children two hours of outdoor learning a day can impact their metabolic health and help them avoid diseases. According to Kittredge, playing in the dirt isn’t just for kids. “It is beneficial to expose ourselves to soil microbes,” he says. “Everyone should nature bathe.”

“Exposure to soil microbes, like Mycobacterium vaccae, can positively impact our physical and mental health,” says Kathleen DiChiara, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition practitioner and digestive wellness educator. “We are losing diversity and not getting the exposure we used to.” She points out that the gut microbiomes of urban citizens in the U.S. have lower bacterial diversity than those in rural societies, including hunter-gatherers from Tanzania and the Amazon.

While diet, lifestyle and genetics play a role in the host-specific differences, the microbiome composition in adults is also based on exposure to microbes in the environment. According to DiChiara, there is no perfect profile for the gut microbiome, and our gut microbial communities ebb and flow. “If a specific strain of bacteria suddenly disappears, perhaps due to an illness, another species can take on its task,” she explains. “Like nature, it’s about working together on our behalf.”

Diversity, richness and symbiotic behavior of the gut microbes are central to our well-being. DiChiara notes that many

variables can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Some result from the choices we make voluntarily, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, eating ultraprocessed foods, being chronically stressed and leading a sedentary lifestyle. Other factors are beyond our control, such as neurological injuries, illnesses and hormonal shifts due to puberty or menopause.

Human Impact on Soil Health

The soil microbiome and the gut microbiome both need our support to maintain proper health. Although our gut microbiome may not be directly impacted by the health of soil microbes, it can be impacted by the pesticides, herbicides and fungicides in our food.

Degradation of the soil microbiome occurs in many ways. Tillage, bare soil, dry soil, fertilizer, chemical sprays and fungicides all harm the soil microbiome. These non-regenerative agricultural practices can have negative impacts on the health of individuals that eat the plants and on the health of the broader ecosystems.

Chemicals like glyphosate can damage the gut microbiome by creating oxidative stress, which agitates the microbiome and impedes its ability to function properly. Pesticides can also have a detrimental impact on the gut microbiome. Each year the United States uses 1 billion pounds of pesticides that may be damaging our bodies when we eat our veggies. “What we are not doing is prioritizing protecting the microbiome—for us and the soil. It’s time we recognize the interconnections between climate, soil and the gut,” DiChiara says.

There are multiple ways we can cultivate a closer, healthier relationship between our soil and our gut, such as supporting sustainable agriculture, avoiding processed foods, frequenting farmers markets for organic produce or spending time in nature. Better yet, Kittredge suggests planting a pesticide-free garden at home and eating carrots straight from the soil.

Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics.

Photo by Rodale Institute

Photo by Rodale Institute

Green Exercise RECONNECTING WITH NATURE

by Cristina Parker

For some fitness buffs, it doesn’t feel like exercise unless they’re at the gym lifting weights, pedaling the stationary bike or hearing the grunts of others giving it their all. But there’s an emerging trend taking hold: green exercise. Prompted by a growing focus on reconnecting with nature, combined with the well-known benefits of physical exertion, outdoor workouts in natural settings and urban parks are all the rage. From daily walks around the neighborhood to calisthenics with the aid of a tree or yoga on the beach, the possibilities are delightfully endless for all ages and fitness levels. Medical pros are prescribing it for science-based reasons.

Green exercise is not exactly a new concept. In a 2013 review of studies published in Extreme Physiology & Medicine, researchers concluded that physical activity in a natural setting as opposed to an indoor gym is perceived as easier and more fun, thereby boosting motivation. They wrote, “The nature element may help achieve a greater intensity of exercise without perception of effort changing.” In other words, people walk faster outdoors yet paradoxically feel as though they’re kicking back.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture

found a positive correlation between green space and health. People that spend time in nature often experience a reduction in stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rate—all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology involving obese young people confirmed that exercising in nature led to improved stress recovery, enhanced attentional restoration and a reduction in negative emotions. Exposure to sunlight is another benefit. According to Dr. Natty Bandasak, a physical therapist and founder of The Myokinetix Clinic, in New Jersey, “Getting vitamin D from the sun is much more impactful than the vitamin D absorbed from ingestible supplements. Just 10 minutes spent outside first thing in the morning can really set the day in a good direction.”

To maximize the benefits of green exercise, Rajeshwari Reddy, a physical therapist in Maryland, suggests a few precautions. “If you have any kind of vision issues, you should exercise midday when there is enough light to keep yourself safe, and if you suffer from seasonal allergies, try to avoid areas with flowering plants or trees,” she explains. “Standard walking shoes are different from running shoes, and the body mechanics of different activities require different levels of shock absorption. These often-overlooked components of an outdoor exercise routine can go a long way to keep you safe, avoid unnecessary injuries and ensure you are having fun with your new program.”

After choosing a suitable time and location, the next step is deciding what exercises to do. Dr. Christine Masterson, a physical therapist at Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group, in New York, says, “For those who desire supervision, joining a local walking or running group is an excellent option. Alternatively, for those who prefer independence, a self-paced exercise routine is recommended.”

Both Masterson and Bandasak describe bodyweight-supported exercises as a perfect outdoor-friendly, equipment-free workout. Moving against gravity uses the person’s weight as a natural form of resistance. As a result, no dumbbells or resis-

tance bands are required. Pick a nice spot in the grass, on the sand or under a shaded treat and do sit-ups, heel raises, push-ups and squats.

Masterson suggests pairing calisthenics with walking. A sample routine could include a brisk walk to the park, followed by squats sitting and standing from a bench, then another brisk walk to a wooded area, followed by heel raises holding onto a tree trunk for balance. “In a bodyweight program, you can focus more on your form and movement pattern, then you can progress these exercises by increasing repetitions, rather than adding weights,” she notes. Bandasak asserts that aerobic exercises like walking, jogging or hiking can be optimized by adding a grip challenge. “One factor strongly correlated with increased longevity is grip strength,” he explains. “Grip can be strengthened through your ability to hold onto objects like a pull-up bar at a playground or stable tree branch in

nature. If those items are not available, just holding any heavy objects by your sides as you walk can be beneficial.”

A key, take-home message when beginning any green-exercise program is to keep an open mind. There are so many activities we can enjoy outdoors. Reddy considers green exercise anything that gets the heart rate going, which can include diverse activities like golf, gardening in the backyard or swimming in a lake.

While getting the blood pumping, remember to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the songbirds and soak up the summer sunshine. Masterson is a proponent of outside yoga to refocus the mind and deeply reconnect with our surroundings.

Cristina Parker, a researcher, health content writer, educator and clinician specializing in neurologic disorders, limb-loss rehabilitation and adaptive sports techniques, holds a doctorate in physical therapy.

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Gut Health for Kids

CLEVER STRATEGIES FOR PICKY EATERS

by Sheila Julson

Most kids look forward to summer vacation, but the dog days can eventually lead to boredom and over-snacking. By creatively offering children healthy, diverse foods, presented in ways to please even finicky palates, parents can support microbiome health while establishing a lifetime of good eating habits.

Tickle Their Palate

“Foods with probiotic-containing living cultures or fermented foods can add beneficial bacteria to the gut,” says Jill Castle, a Massachusetts-based pediatric dietitian and founding CEO of The Nourished Child, an online nutrition resource for parents. She recommends incorporating treats that are alive, tart and bubbling with healthful microbes.

“Parents can make sure they offer a variety of prebiotic and probiotic foods routinely at mealtimes as options to taste and try. The good news is there are many healthy, gut-supporting foods for children to eat,” she advises.

Yogurt with live or active cultures and kefir, a fermented milk drink, both contain

these beneficial probiotics. “Although kefir tends to be sour, some brands have flavored kefir, such as strawberry, mango or peach,” Castle explains. “I’ve had great luck introducing this to children who are picky, because it’s smooth and creamy and tastes like a smoothie.”

She also notes that kombucha, a fizzy, fermented tea with live and active cultures, is available in fruity flavors that appeal to children. Pickles fermented over time with salt and water are a source of healthy bacteria for the gut. And although cheeses are fermented, only a few have live, active cultures. Castle recommends gouda, mozzarella or cheddar.

Sneak in the Fiber

According to Dr. Joanne Aponte, a naturopathic doctor at Lakeside Natural Medicine, in Milwaukee, a diverse diet high in fiber is key to supporting a healthy gut microbiome. “All veggies are beneficial, but ones high in galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) and fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) prebiotics help grow and support healthy gut bacteria,” she explains. GOS-rich foods include beans, lentils and peas, along with broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, while FOS-predominant choices are garlic, onions, asparagus, artichokes and leeks.

Aponte also recommends chia, flax, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, which can be ground up in an inexpensive coffee grinder and added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt or home-baked goods such as cookies, pancakes or waffles. “Sunflower butter can be used to make cookies,” Aponte notes. “I make oatmeal-sunflower butter cookies that are packed with microbiome-supporting oatmeal, pumpkin, ground chia seeds and, of course, chocolate chips.”

For children that are choosy about vegetables, Aponte suggests making zucchini or carrot muffins with ground chia seeds or walnuts. Entice children to eat raw veggies by offering dipping sauces, such as teriyaki, ranch dressing or salsa. Aponte notes that skins should be left on vegetables whenever possible because they contain fiber, which helps feed the gut microbiome.

“It takes some experimentation, but encourage your child to try lots of different foods,” Aponte says. “Some kids might prefer a black bean spread or dip, or refried beans, versus eating whole beans. There are also pastas made with chickpeas or lentils. Veggies like onion or zucchini can be chopped small and hidden in spaghetti sauce.”

Add a Pinch of Fun

Katrina Lien, the program development specialist for Sanford fit, a children's fitness program in rural South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota, suggests that parents find ways to engage and empower kids to make healthy lifestyle choices.

“Try offering new foods with foods that you know your kids already like,” she says. “When you introduce something new or unfamiliar alongside foods that are a well-known favorite, kids are more open to trying the unfamiliar food.”

Attempt to make foods more interesting and fun, Lien advises. “This can be done by how you arrange the food items on the plate or cutting foods into different shapes. For example, use a cookie cutter to turn simple cucumber slices into a heart or a star.”

According to Lien, when parents involve their children in snack

and meal preparation, kids feel included and excited to try the foods they helped create. Although getting kids interested in unfamiliar foods can be laborious and time-consuming, parents should remind themselves to be patient and remain consistent.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.

Natural Ant Control for the Home

The warmer weather can bring unwanted pests, including ants, into homes and apartments. Conventional pesticides and ant traps can be toxic to humans, pets and the environment. This season, consider using one of these safer ant-control alternatives.

KEEP COUNTERS CLEAN

First and foremost, maintain kitchen counters and floors free of food particles. Tightly seal food containers, wipe countertops with soapy water, sweep the floors and avoid leaving standing water overnight. If there are no food sources around, the ants will lose interest.

STOP ENTRY INTO THE HOME

After cleaning, the next line of defense is to keep ants from entering the home in the first place. One of the most effective, toxin-free methods is to spray cedar oil outside, around the perimeter of the house. Mix one ounce of cedar oil in one quart of water (or four ounces per gallon) and

spray the solution three feet up the outside walls and on the ground, six feet out from the edges of the house.

USE NATURAL REPELLENTS

Numerous natural repellents work well inside the home. Place one or more of these in the kitchen or wherever the ants are entering: cucumber peels or slices; tea bags of mint tea or dry, crushed mint leaves; cloves; cayenne pepper; citrus oil soaked into a piece of string; lemon juice; cinnamon; or coffee grounds.

CONFUSE ANTS TRAVELING BACK TO THE NEST

As worker ants travel from their nest to forage for food, they leave a sex hormone (pheromone) scent in order to find their way back to the nest. These invisible trails can be washed away with a mixture of one-quarter cup of white vinegar, two cups of water, and 10 to 15 drops of peppermint, clove, eucalyptus or tea tree essential oil.

USE NATURAL ANT KILLERS AS LAST RESORT

A serious ant problem might require more drastic measures that kill the invading ants. These two options employ non-toxic ingredients.

n Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic, talc-like powder made from the fossilized remains of marine phytoplankton. When sprinkled on ants, the powder causes them to dehydrate.

n Cornmeal left out in small piles where ants are visible is another option that poses no threat to pets or little kids. The ants will eat the cornmeal, but because they can’t digest it, they will perish.

calendar of events

TUESDAY, JULY 11

EVERY TUESDAY

Hoboken Farmer’s Market–2:00-6:00pm. Celebrating 22 years of providing fresh, local produce and other epicurean delights in Hoboken. Enjoy the sweet corn and juicy Jersey tomatoes; Pick up some fresh-from-the-farm lettuce for dinner or a scrumptious peach pie for the weekend barbeque. Location: Garden Street between 4th and 5th Street, Hoboken

EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY

Kids Art Classes at the Museum –10:00am–12:00pm. Join for fun art-making in the Museum walkway! Recommended for ages 2-5. Art materials are provided. $5 suggested donation is appreciated; Location: Hoboken Historical Museum.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Outdoor Yoga Jam: DJ Yoga with Asana Soul Practice –6:30-7:30pm. Join the creative, fun classes function as a workout of the body and mind, designed to rejuvenate and inspire, with the freedom and flexibility to set intentions that work best for you. Contact: Asana Soul Practice, 201-792-5254

THURSDAY, JULY 6

Succulent Pots: Summer Reading Adult Craft–4:30-6:30pm. Paint, Chat, and Relax with us! Join us for a coffee & paint event where we will be painting terracotta pots and planting succulents! Registration is required! This is an adult only event. Questions? Email molly.camera@hoboken.bccls.org. Call 201-420-2346 or visit website. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Kids STEM Fridays–3:00-4:00pm. Come join us for fun and creative activities on Kids STEM Fridays from 3pm to 4pm. Location: Glenn D. Cunningham Branch Library, 275 Martin Luther King Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305. Call 201-547-4555 or Visit website.

MONDAY, JULY 10

Beginner Sign Language (ASL) for Adults & Teens–6:00-7:00pm. ASL for Beginners is an interactive and immersive class for anyone age 13+ who wants to learn American Sign Language! Learn the fundamental principles of grammar & syntax, a basic vocabulary & the convention of conversational discourse in the Deaf community. Call 201-4202346 or Visit website. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

MONDAY-FRIDAY, JULY 10 - AUG 18

LSC Science Camp–9:00am-4:00pm, late and early care available. Registration is now open. Fun, engaging, weeklong sessions are available for campers entering Grades 1 - 8. For the first time, each week of camp focuses on a different educational theme: Oceans, Sci-Fi, Exploration, Showtime, Maker Skills, and Nature. Have a question? You can call us at 201.253.1380 or email us at sciencecamp@lsc. org. Location: 222 Jersey City Blvd Jersey City, NJ, 07305. Visit https://lsc.org/camp.

Introduction to Robotics–11:00am - 12:30pm. Register your child for Introduction to Robotics, and watch your child grow critical thinking, problemsolving, and computational thinking skills. Our 8-week program provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about robotics and coding. Location: Glenn D. Cunningham Branch Library, 275 Martin Luther King Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305. Call 201-547-4555 or Visit https://jclibrary.libcal. com/event/10825958.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12

Bilingual Story Time–3:30-4:00pm. Join us every Wednesday for a Bilingual Story Time @ Grand Street Branch! We will have Take n’ Make activities availble on a first come first served basis. For any questions please email Ms. Vanessa at vanessa. soto@hoboken.bccls.org. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit website. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

THURSDAY, JULY 13

Beginner Sign Language (ASL) for Adults & Teens –6:00-7:00pm. ASL for Beginners is an interactive and immersive class for anyone age 13+ who wants to learn American Sign Language! Learn the fundamental principles of grammar & syntax, a basic vocabulary, & the conventions of conversational discourse in the Deaf community. Call 201-420-2346. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

THURSDAY, JULY 13

ESL Short Film Night–6:00-7:45pm. Join us at the Hoboken Public Library this summer for a chance to practice your English in a friendly and relaxed environment! Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https:// bccls.libcal.com/event/10566792. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, JUNE 14-16

New Jersey State Barbecue Championship –9:00am -6:00pm. Getting hungry? You’ll find barbecue so good you’ll cry, offered by championship vendors, as well as a variety of other treats to satisfy every appetite. And of course you won’t want to miss the live cooking demonstrations, special displays, and much, much more. If you have any questions, please contact NJBBQ@NJBBQ.COM. Call 609-523-6565 or Visit https://njbbq.com/ Location: Jersey City, NJ.

MONDAY, JULY 17

Intermediate Sign Language (ASL) for Adults & Teens–6:00-7:00pm. ASL Level II is an interactive and immersive class for anyone age 13+ who wants to build upon their study of American Sign Language! This course emphasizes comprehending, signing, developing receptive skills, and using the glossing system for written ASL. Call 201-4202346. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

TUESDAY, JULY 18

Cooking with Ms. Nicole–5:30-6:30pm. Watch Ms. Nicole make some delicious treats for those hot summer days! Either come in person or watch

on Youtube Live! If you have a food allergy, please let Ms. Nicole know after registering! Questions? Please email Ms. Nicole at nicole.marconi@hoboken.bccls.org. Call 201-420-2346. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

Knitting Club–Knit Your Own Supersized Scarf!, 5:00-6:00pm. Learn how to make your own supersized scarf! Watch Ms. Nicole’s Youtube video to learn how! Please register to get your own supplies to make your own! Please note that there is no inperson event, this is a grab-and-go knitting kit with a Youtube tutorial! Questions? Email Ms. Nicole at nicole.marconi@hoboken.bccls.org. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

MONDAY - WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

– AUG 16

Pre-K Prep–8:30-10:30am. At Little Bee Learning Studio, our mission is to meet little ones where they are and give them the tools and support they need to grow. We understand and respect each stage of early childhood, and our 2-Hour Morning Drop Off Class is specifically designed to ease toddlers into independence and preschool routines. Location: 163 4th Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26

Children’s Chess Workshop (ages 9 & up)–5:306:30pm. Children are invited to join instructors from Chess Boxx as they conduct a Summer beginner’s

classifieds FOR SALE

ELEGANT KAWAI PIANO – Mahogany upright with matching bench. Dimension: 5’ 2’’ x 2’ 2’’ x 3’ 5’’, Perfect for interested child of 5-7 years of age to begin study in keyboarding. Bench has finally crafted, hinged top opening to store music books. Price cut to $2500. Separate Piano lamp, marble and brass available at $150. Located close to Bergen Town Center/Whole Foods. Call 201-487-4839.

SERVICES

CONCERNED EMF’S ARE AFFECTING YOUR HEALTH? EMF’s affect our health and well-being. We offer remediation of Electomagnetic Fields inside and outside the Home using energy balancing tools.For rates and information call: Irene Christopher (917) 576-9310, Barbara Kehr (201) 637-8859

YOUR AD HERE – $33 PER MONTH - Up to 40 words. Add $1 per word over 40 words. Pre-paid. Call 201-781-5577 or submit ad to: Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.

Chess Workshop. If interested, please call the library or email us at kearnylibrary22@gmail.com and reserve your spot. Call 201-998-2666Location: 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Adult Summer Reading Craft –4:30-6:30pm. Join us for a paint by number event! Each paint by number kit will come with a pre-printed canvas that is numbered along with the paints and relax, paint, and chat with friends! This is an adult only event. Registration Required! Questions? Email molly. camera@hoboken.bccls.org. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit website. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

SUNDAY,

JULY 30

Bike Hoboken Community Ride –11:00am1:00pm. Join Bike Hoboken for our community ride around the square mile city! Follow Bike Hoboken for announcements of starting locations: https:// bikehoboken.org/. If you have any questions, please contact HobokenEmily@gmail.com. Visit website. Location: Hoboken, NJ, 07030.

TUESDAY, AUG 1

Juvenile Craft Tuesday’s (Summer Learning Program “All Together Now”) –2:00-4:00pm. Come and join us for a day of fun making your very own handmade craft. Let your creativity flow! looking forward to seeing you all there. Location: West Bergen Branch Library, 546 West Side Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304. Call 201-547-4554.

FRIDAY, AUG 4

Adult Color & Chat at Five Corners–11:00am12:00pm. Join Jessica the Library Social Worker, for some adult coloring pages and conversation (talking not required). Come enjoy the relaxation and stress relief of coloring and meet new people. Coloring pages and pencils will be supplied. Location: Five corner Branch Library, 678 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306. Call 201-547-4543.

communityresourceguide

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

Whole body dentistry focused on improving smiles and overall health. We provide full preventative services including safe removal of mercury amalgams, biological periodontal therapy, orthodontics, supportive therapies for toxin removal, TMJ dysfunction and chronic face pain and dental management of sleep disorders. See ad on page 19.

ENERGY HEALING

ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS

Theresa Obssuth, Access Bars Practitioner

Paramus, NJ

201-655-3836 • Citm-DrFinn.com

What if you are far greater than anyone has ever acknowledged? Where have you not acknowledged this for yourself? What keeps you in frustration of limitation, judgment of yourself and the lack of peace and joy in your life? What if this could all change easily and create a new way of life for you. Let me introduce you to the process of Access Bars and a way to live life where you function from your own awareness having more happiness and ease. Offering Access Bars and Access Energetic Facelift sessions and classes. See ad, page 7.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

ROMAN E. FINN, M.D.

Center for Integrative & Traditional Medicine

22 Madison Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652

201-291-0401 • citm-drfinn.com

Dr. Roman Finn has successfully combined holistic and integrative ways as well as modern developments in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of conditions including cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal and immune disorders as well as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, fibrommyalgia and stress related conditions. An all-encompassing holistic approach provided through non-invasive testing. Most labs and tests are performed on premises. We are working with major insurance companies and Medicare. See ads, pages 2 & 13.

HEALTHY DRINKS

NUTE JUICE

Made-to-order delivery: NUTEJUICE.COM

Instagram/Facebook: @NUTEJUICERY

201-572-4201

High quality unpasteurized (no HPP) 100% organic cold pressed juice. Offering convenient delivery to improve your healthy lifestyle easily! Mix and match your favorite flavors and ginger bombs, or choose from our selection of curated juice cleanses and health boost kits. We also offer catering and bulk discounts. All juice is pressed fresh and made to order!

See ad, page 2.

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 health-supportive, local eatery offers in-store 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.

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.

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 on back cover..

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

1321 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 201-708-8577 • AcupunctureAtelier.com

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.

HOBOKEN CHIROPRACTIC + WELLNESS

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.

JACQUIE BIRD, SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

JacquieBirdSpiritualWellness.com

917-740-8097

Jacquie is a Wellness Guide, helping people to connect to their deeper, quieter, Witness Selves. She offer products and services to reduce stress and anxiety; to increase mindfulness, awareness, and personal growth. Her service StressBusters Guided Meditation is a personally developed system using sound, breath, aromatherapy, gemstones, journaling, and movement. Private and group sessions are available. Jacquie has also created audiobooks, eBooks, custom guided music with the intent to calm, support, guide and empower. See ad, page 15.

Courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength.

~Theodore Roosevelt

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.

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.

RISE COACHING

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 highquality products. The Green Room is open Sunday through Thursday 11am-8pm and Fri and Sat 11am-10pm in Jersey City and Monclair.

INTUITIVE FENG SHUI & MEDIDTATIVE CLEARING

LOIS KRAMER-PEREZ INTUITIVE FENG SHUI & MEDITATIVE CLEARING

Lois Kramer Perez 201-906-5767 • Fax 201-265-6037

LoisKramerPerez.com

“If we want to make changes in our lives, we must start from within.” Are you ready?

Through her own journey of self-discovery, Lois has embraced diverse energy modalities as a way of life, and she wants to share them. Lois has developed simple, effective techniques that help clients sharpen their awareness, clarity and empowerment through feng shui, personal meditative clearing, and environmental space clearing. Each of these services can provide anchors for creating change from the inside out. Let’s get started!

YOGA

PURE BLISS YOGA

Zeni Pepper

Pure Bliss Yoga

pure-bliss-yoga.com

Pure Bliss Yoga was founded by Zeni Pepper, a lifelong yoga and meditation practitioner, who regularly leads classes, workshops, teacher trainings and retreats. Echoing her multi-faceted life experiences, Zeni’s yoga classes are varied and deep, infused with energetic practices, philosophy, mythology, poetry and spirituality. She teaches a broad range – from intelligently weaved vinyasa flows, to blissful restorative yoga, meditation and yoga nidra, in group, private or corporate settings. You can follow and connect with her on Facebook or Instagram @zeniyoga. See ad, page 3.

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