June 2023

• 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.

Publisher Claire Byers

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A Summer We Can Finally Enjoy

We are in middle of some nice warm weather, which is unusual for this time of year. I see all the ballparks buzzing with activities, malls packed with people shopping and subway commuter traffic nearing pre-pandemic levels. This all bodes well for the economy and increased commercial activity. More than ever, Natural Awakenings is great place to announce and share products and services with our conscious readers. With the seasonal uptick in barbecue parties, “Greener Grilling” provides a nice approach to health and conscious outdoor cooking.

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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.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

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Men are traditionally the caretaker expected to bring health and happiness to the whole family in more than one way—financially, emotionally and healthwise. It is also common to neglect their own needs in the process. Our June edition focuses on all aspects of men’s health. For men, financial well-being is as important as physical health, and we have a very informative article about investment and managing the portfolio of sustainable stocks and mutual funds. It is high time for everyone to add ESG to your portfolio.

To take care of the multifaceted men in your family, we offer multiple suggestions for how to build a family with discipline and love for conscious and caring fathers. Sexual health is another, often overlooked, component of overall wellness. A man in optimal physical shape and good overall health is able to fully enjoy life. Maintaining high energy levels is key, and “Converting Food to Energy” provides a good understanding of ways to manage our metabolism.

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

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

Free Virtual Mental Health Services Via Telehealth

The state is partnering with Uwill, an online campus counseling service founded in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to provide a telehealth counseling service with free, online therapy to students enrolled at 44 public and private higher education institutions in New Jersey. Participating colleges and universities can complement the program through separate initiatives funded by grant money awarded by the state for mental health programming.

The program is available 24/7 to address a growing need for counseling and mental health support that has strained the capacity of many campuses. The participating institutions opted into the program include three Rutgers University campuses, community colleges in Bergen and Passaic county, Princeton University and Montclair State University.

More than 70 percent of New Jersey students rated higher stress and anxiety levels compared with the previous year, and 40 percent of students were concerned about their mental health related to the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found in a study conducted in 2021 that suicidal thoughts among teenage girls rose after the pandemic and stayed about the same for teenage boys.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Forthose 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 24.

Regain A Full Head Of Hair!

FARMERS MARKETS Get Your

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.

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,

Low Vitamin D Linked to Risk of Death

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine determined that vitamin D deficiency increases mortality risk. The findings were based on a survey of the vitamin D levels and genetic data of more than 300,000 people aged 37 to 73 that participated in the UK Biobank, a large-scale cohort study that began in 2006. Almost 19,000 deaths from all causes, as well as from specific causes such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory illnesses, were recorded through 2020.

Researchers discovered that the risk of death decreased steeply with increasing concentrations of vitamin D, until reaching 50 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L). The odds of death from all causes were estimated to increase by 25 percent for participants with vitamin D levels of 25 nmol/L, compared to those with 50 nmol/L.

Rise in Children With Autism

New Insights on Water Consumption Requirements

We have been conditioned to believe that eight glasses of water are required each day, but new research published in Science found that daily water needs vary based on numerous factors. Researchers studied 5,604 people aged 8 to 96 from 23 countries, measuring their water turnover—the amount of water lost and replaced each day. They found that for most healthy adults, drinking eight cups of water a day is unnecessary because water needs vary depending on age, sex, body size, physical activity level, athletic status, pregnancy, socioeconomic status and environmental characteristics such as latitude, altitude, air temperature and humidity. People that lived in less developed countries had higher water turnover than people from developed countries. While hydration should be prioritized, most people that pay attention to their bodies and drink when thirsty are likely drinking enough water.

In March, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) released updated statistics on the rate of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which has been steadily on the rise. One in 36 children was diagnosed with autism by age 8 in 2020, or about 2.8 percent of children, up from one in 44 children in 2018, and one in 150 children in 2000 when the CDC first established the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network to track ASD prevalence in this country.

Autism was 3.8 times as prevalent among boys (4 percent) as girls (1 percent), and for the first time among 8-year-old children, the prevalence was slightly lower among white children than other racial and ethnic groups, which is a reversal of racial and ethnic differences observed in the past. The CDC partially attributes these patterns to improved screening, awareness and access to services.

The report included communities in 11 states that participate in the CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network—Arizona, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Tennessee, Utah and Wisconsin. Children included in this report were born in 2012 and lived in surveillance areas during 2020. ASD prevalence varied from state to state, with Maryland having the lowest and California the highest observed rates.

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Indian Food Images/ShutterStock.com

Fun Physical Activities to Make the Most of Summer

by Roman E. Finn

Summer is a great time for everyone to stay healthy and happy through physical activities. Staying active keeps us strong, mobile and full of energy. Whether we are into fitness or looking to try new things, there are many enjoyable activities to make the most of the season. Always prepare by applying sunscreen.

n Walking and Nature Strolls: Walking is a beneficial exercise for everyone. Enjoy walks in the park, neighborhood or nature trails to improve cardiovascular health and strengthen bones and muscles. It’s a chance to connect with nature, breathe fresh air and socialize with loved ones. Join local walking groups or clubs for a social and enjoyable experience.

n Yoga and Stretching: These exercises improve flexibility, balance and relaxation. Enjoy outdoor yoga in parks or beaches for a dose of vitamin D. We can also practice yoga or stretching at home or in a peaceful outdoor spot.

n Gardening: Try gardening to enjoy its physical benefits like improved strength, flexibility and endurance. Gardening also boosts mental well-being and gives us a

sense of accomplishment. Plant flowers, tend to a vegetable garden or create beautiful landscapes. If we don’t have space, try container gardening or join a community garden to socialize with other gardening enthusiasts.

n Water Aerobics: Water aerobics is a fantastic way to exercise and stay cool in the summer. It’s a low-impact workout that eases stress on joints and muscles, making

it perfect for those with arthritis or mobility concerns. Water aerobics improves cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and muscle strength, all while having fun in the water.

n Cycling: Cycling is a great way to explore and improve cardiovascular fitness. Grab a bicycle and ride through parks, bike trails or the neighborhood. Make it more enjoyable and social by organizing group rides with friends or joining local cycling clubs. Don’t forget to wear a helmet and stay hydrated during cycling adventures.

n Dancing: Dancing is a fun and social activity for all mobility levels. Join dance classes at local studios or community centers or dance at home to some favorite music. It’s a great way to burn calories while improving coordination, balance and flexibility.

Summer is a great time for physical activities that keep you active, energized and connected to nature. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise and listen to the body.

Dr. Roman E. Finn is the owner of The Center for Integrative and Traditional Medicine, located at 22 Madison Ave., in Paramus. For appointments or more information, call 201-291-0401 or visit citm-drfinn.com. See ad, page 2..

Sample Therapies:

 Perfect Fifth Technique C-G

 Cleaning and Regulating Technique

 Brain and Heart Coherence Technique

 DNA, Nucleotides Technique

 4 Nutritive Mineral: Gold, Silver, Platinum, Silica

 13 Bioelements - Minerals

 Endocrine Therapy

 Candida & Herpes Cleanse

 Vibratory Back Massage

 Vibratory Reflexology

 Cosmetology (skin, hair, nails) Technique

 Angel Technique

The Physical and Spiritual Realms

Inextricable

by Anne Deatly

The physical realm and the invisible realm are inextricable, which means they can’t be separated. Most humans are unaware of this fact, although those seeking this understanding are discovering this truth. For millennia, humans have achieved a level of understanding which has allowed the transmission or infusion of energies. We tend to think in terms of energy transmissions from Heaven to Earth, but not the other way around. The truth is that it is a two-way communication. We, or the physical realm, needs the spiritual realm, and the spiritual realm needs the physical realm. They are like different sides of the same coin or different polarities of the same

magnet. One side does not exist separately without its opposite.

This simple realization of how the universe really works helps us to understand the oneness of the universe instead of the separation. Separation is the illusion that we, or our egos, create. There is an interdependence that we learn as we progress on our spiritual journeys to be the best versions of ourselves and start living from our soul rather than our ego. It we can understand this interdependence, we can reach an understanding of the natural impossibility of division between the spiritual and physical realms of existence.

Furthermore, we understand our

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necessity and our value to how the universe really works effectively through us. This new awareness leads to the understanding our self-worth to the universe, which opens the door to understanding our magnificence in the universe.

Once we get this understanding, it helps us to change our way of being in the physical world. We realize the physical world aspirations are not the same as the spiritual realm aspirations. We start seeing ourselves and each other as the divine souls we were created to be. We start seeing ourselves and each other through the lens of the heart—offering love and compassion. Our vibrational frequency and our levels of consciousness can now become the focus of our lives, rather than climbing corporate ladders and amassing wealth and possessions. We begin to realize that our ladders have been on the wrong wall. We are trying to get somewhere that is not necessarily helpful to the universe in terms of raising the vibrational frequency of the whole universal consciousness. Once we realize that we each play a role in the vibrational frequency of the universe, we change and work toward the greater good of the oneness.

Is “Mental Health” Really Mental?

Such issues as depression and anxiety are typically handled by “mental health” practitioners, and many who do various types of therapy (e.g., talk, group, CBT, EMDR) are quite helpful to their patients. However, the viewpoint that these are “mental” health issues arguably already pigeonholes these conditions to a limited set of treatment approaches. The comprehensive “holistic”/functional viewpoint would immediately see the possibility of roots in not only the mental/emotional arena, but also in the physical, behavioral, and spiritual realms, opening many more diagnostic, and especially treatment, options. Many people seek natural, minimally pharmaceutical solutions to these issues, and here, the holistic/functional approach is integral to unearthing these solutions.

Most pharmaceuticals work to alter neurotransmitter availability in the nervous system, such things as serotonin (Prozac, Zoloft, etc.), norepinephrine (Effexor, Pristiq), both (Cymbalta), and GABA (Xanax, Ativan, etc.) And individual’s neurotransmitter profile can actually be lab-tested, so drug selection can be more precisely targeted. But this same testing can guide a practitioner to create a nutrient program customized to one’s neurotransmitter levels once determined.

Further simple testing can be done on other parameters that affect one’s disposition and emotions. Tests of such biomarkers as histamines (the same body chemicals that cause hives), pyrroles, vitamins (especially B vitamins and vitamin D3), and essential fats all play a huge role in how we “feel”. Erratic reactions to ingested sugar (hypoglycemia) can profoundly lead to ups and downs and create irritability and anxiety.

If one is sensitive to specific foods, (not the same as an allergy, not so acute, but nonetheless potentially devastating), every possible version of “mental health issue” can be the result if eaten. Subclinical hypothyroidism can be “depressing”, and hyperthyroidism can source nervousness and more. An exhausted adrenal can yield fatigue, anxiety, poor emotional resilience to stress, and panic attacks. Toxins of all sorts are known for their effects on the nervous system, be they from petroleum products/plastics, mold or heavy (poisonous) metals like mercury, lead and arsenic). The probiotic population in our gut (good, bad or indifferent) has such an enormous impact on the nervous system that it has been termed “the third brain”. And hormonal imbalances, even if modest, can wreak havoc on how we experience daily

life and relationships.

Add to this a lack of exercise, eating of empty calories, lack of adequate or proper sleep, failure to connect socially (lack of community), lack of a spiritual program or belief, lack of nurturing/inspirational people in one’s life, and it is clear that as useful as psychotherapy and medications can be, there is an enormous amount of ground to be covered in a truly comprehensive exploration to find permanent, deep, natural solutions for “mental health” issues, involving careful consideration of every aspect of mind, body and spirit. The above list is in fact just the tip of the iceberg, and it’s an iceberg well worth exploring in depth, as it can affect and even determine how fully we ultimately enjoy and appreciate the very lives we are living. Bottom line: The best answers do not always or necessarily come in a bottle of pharmaceutical pills.

Dr. Robin Leder trained with Dr. Robert Atkins of The Atkins Diet fame, and has guided thousands of patients to achieve their optimal weight using her vast knowledge of the field. She is located at 235 Prospect Ave., Ste. LB, in Hackensack. For more information, call 201-525-1155 or visit RobinLedermd.com.

Microplastics Released by Tea Bags

Most mesh tea bags are made of 20 to 30 percent plastic, which can release microplastics and nanoplastics, causing harmful effects for both human health and the environment. In a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, researchers found that one standard tea bag made with plastic released 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into a cup of tea. The particles in the tea matched the nylon and polyethylene terephthalate in the original tea bag.

Open Letter to Pause AI Experiments

A group of leading technology executives, researchers, academics and others from around the world have signed an open letter prepared by the Future of Life Institute calling for a six-month pause on large, humancompetitive artifi-

cial intelligence (AI) experiments. As of March 31, more than 1,800 CEOs and 1,500 professors had signed the letter.

“AI labs are locked in an out-of-control race to develop and deploy ever more powerful digital minds that no one— not even their creators—can understand, predict or reliably control,” the letter contends. The authors are concerned that “AI systems are now becoming human-competitive at general tasks.”

While AI systems grow more powerful, there is no natural law or barrier to technical progress. The letter’s authors and signers are asking all AI labs to pause the training of powerful AI systems so that safety protocols can be implemented to ensure the effects of these systems will be positive and the risks manageable. According to the letter, “If such a pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”

Individuals can view and sign the letter at Tinyurl.com/ AImoratorium.

jatupronAdobeStock.com

Safer alternatives include steeping loose teas with a stainless steel or silicone tea strainer, or purchasing tea from brands that offer plastic-free teabags. Organic teas may still have plastic in the tea bag, as the packaging is not overseen by organic-certifying organizations.

Plastic Rocks Found on Remote Brazilian Island

Brazilian researchers have discovered rocks formed from plastic debris in the permanently preserved area of Trindade Island, approximately 680 miles off the coast of Brazil. The island is a remote refuge for green turtles, which come by the thousands every year to lay their eggs. The only human inhabitants of the island are members of the Brazilian navy.

The team of researchers ran chemical tests on the rocks, called plasticglomerates, and determined that they were formed when fishing nets were dragged by the current and accumulated on the beach. It is believed that the nets melt when the temperature rises and they become embedded with the sedimentary granules and other debris on the beach.

lazaalaexa/ShutterStock.com

The Healthiest Juices in Town

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 top-notch 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

Healing starts today

closely with clients to curate the perfect assortment of flavors, ensuring a memorable and health-conscious experience for all attendees.

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

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WHAT EVERY MAN WANTS SEXUAL VITALITY

by Carrie Jackson

For men, sexual health is a key, but often overlooked, component of overall wellness. A man in optimal physical shape is able to fully enjoy and participate in sexual activity with an active libido and the ability to sustain an erection. Poor sexual health can lead to depression, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and other troublesome symptoms and conditions.

Fortunately, male sexual function is better understood medically than ever before, and it is more common for men to talk with their doctors and other professionals about topics that seemed taboo not that long ago. New technology is making it easier to diagnose and treat common problems, and it is widely understood that physical, neurological, hormonal, interpersonal and mental factors all play into sexual wellness. By taking a proactive and holistic approach to

AT EVERY

AGE

their overall wellness, men can enjoy a robust sex drive and performance long into their later years.

Maintaining Libido and Energy

Eric Plasker, a licensed chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle, attests that sexual health does not have to decline with age, and men can proactively counter that myth with mindful lifestyle choices. “If you’re aging in a healthy manner, your libido does not have to decline. By taking part in activities you find fulfilling and nurturing your mind, body and spirit, your sexual energy can stay naturally high,” Plasker explains.

He recommends that people take an energy inventory to assess which activities and lifestyle choices are serving them. “Make a list

of all the things you do that help you gain energy and those that drain your energy. This includes the food you eat, hobbies, habits, even people you spend time with. Then see how you can turn the drainers into gainers. For example, if driving in traffic makes you angry, put on relaxing music and do deep breathing exercises to shift yourself into a more positive state. These shifts will make you more energetic, stronger, more passionate and present with your partners, and you’ll have more energy to be sexual and loving,” he says.

Sexual health depends on a healthy nervous system, and maintaining a balanced flow of hormones and neurotransmitters is essential for proper neurological function. According to Plasker, disease, inactivity and inflammation—especially in the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints—can cause a communication breakdown.

“Blockages in the nervous system flow can cause disruption to the sexual organs and lead to a compromised libido,” he explains. “Chiropractic adjustments, combined with regular exercise, will help raise cortisol, reduce stress and open up these pathways in the body. I recommend that patients find an activity they enjoy, such as swimming or tennis, so it becomes an enjoyable part of their routine,” Plasker says.

Optimizing Hormones

According to Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist in Sarasota, Florida, strong sexual health and desire is a window to overall health. He helps patients reach their sexual potential with a combination of science-based medicine and holistic practices. “The body is one connected system, and great sexual function is an indication that your body is optimized,” he advises.

While testosterone is widely known to affect sex drive, Gapin looks at the interplay of a variety of other hormones, too. Hormone optimization, testosterone therapy and peptide therapy, which utilizes the body’s own amino acids to increase hormone levels, are non-invasive outpatient tools that men can use to analyze and optimize their sex drive.

“The body produces over 50 hormones, which all contribute to regulating biological processes,” he explains. “Low testosterone can lead to weight gain, anxiety, erectile dysfunction and other serious health issues, including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Men want to optimize their thyroid and DHT [dihydrotestosterone] levels, both of which can lower the sex drive when compromised. Vitamin D helps regulate the gut, which controls the health of the entire body. Neurotransmitters, which help release feel-good endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine, are made in the gut and can affect depression, anxiety and other issues that lower libido.”

Gapin stresses that it is more important to think about “optimal” levels of hormones instead of “normal” ranges and encourages patients to move beyond the basic blood tests to assess their health. “Besides sex drive, testosterone also affects cardiovascular health, muscle and bone strength, fat mass, cognitive health and even longevity, so it’s important to be aware of your own levels,”

he says. “Every man is different, and the range in which you feel and perform your best is what’s right for you. With medical advice constantly changing, it can be a challenge to keep track of all the recommended tests. DNA testing, epigenetic age assessments, advanced lipid panels, inflammation markers and thyroid testing can all give insight to how the body is functioning as a whole.”

Treating Prostate Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It is, in fact, the most common cancer among American men. Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and in non-Hispanic Black men. About six cases in 10 are diagnosed in men that are 65 or older, and it is rare in men under 40.

Gapin asserts that preventative and proactive lifestyle choices can drastically reduce the risk. “New, non-invasive MRI treatments are making it easier to detect and diagnose cancer earlier by highlighting suspicious areas in the prostate and targeting them for biopsy,” he explains, adding that men diagnosed with prostate cancer have a number of treatment options.

“Traditionally, patients would have the prostate removed and undergo radiation. However, these procedures come with a list of disturbing side effects. A newer, FDA-approved treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive procedure that eradicates prostate cancer,” Gapin notes. “HIFU is an outpatient procedure with excellent oncologic outcomes, minimal side effects and quick recovery times.”

Incorporating Lifestyle Solutions

As an osteopathic doctor and integrative medicine practitioner at the Masley Optimal Health Center, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Tarin Forbes looks at the root causes of disease and dysfunc

tion. She, too, considers sexual health an integral component of overall wellness and gives patients the tools to achieve their desired sexual potential. “While every person is different, optimal sexual health usually means that men wake up with a morning erection, desire intercourse on a daily basis and can reach an erection without stimulation or genital contact,” she remarks.

Making mindful choices that prioritize nutrition will naturally improve sexual health. “Nourish yourself with a whole food, plant-based diet rich in nutrients, including nitrate-rich foods and foods rich in vitamin C and folate, which boost nitric oxide, the main compound that increases blood flow,” Forbes says. “Beans, citrus fruits, beets, celery, cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens boost nitric oxide or its bioavailability to improve blood flow. While getting nutrition from food is ideal, supplements such as zinc, magnesium, vitamin D and boron can help regulate sex hormones. Avoid certain medications, including over-the-counter medicine such as NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs] like Advil, acid blockers and even mouthwash, which blocks nitric oxide.”

Forbes also recommends engaging in high-intensity exercises and weight resistance that help increase testosterone and blood flow to the penis. Reducing environmental toxins is another important step, she notes, as plastics, pesticides and other chemicals can rob men of their testosterone, which not only affects blood flow but also libido.

Forbes cautions that while erectile dysfunction drugs work in the short-term, they can produce unwanted consequences. “Viagra does work to help men achieve an erection by stimulating blood flow to the penis. However, it can cause troublesome side effects including headaches, vision problems and nasal congestion. Non-pharmaceutical alternatives can provide good results without undesirable repercussions. Low-intensity shock wave therapy, a non-invasive outpatient procedure, uses targeted sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis and can be done once or in a series of treatments. Platelet-rich plasma injections use the patient’s own plasma to stimulate new tissue growth in the penis, which can lead to larger

and more frequent erections,” she explains.  Forbes says that by having an open dialogue with their medical professionals and exploring holistic treatments, men at any age can feel sexier and more energetic than ever. “Talk about your concerns with your doctor, who may offer referrals to other specialists until the issue is solved. A physical therapist can teach men to strengthen their pelvic floor with Kegels and other exercises. Sexual therapists help men work through mental and psychological issues, which can be as debilitating as physical ones. A psychologist can offer tools for managing depression and anxiety, both of which can contribute to sexual dysfunction, including low libido and performance anxiety,” she says, noting that if a man does not feel comfortable talking with their doctor, it may be time to find a new one.

Many factors contribute to sexual health, and every man’s needs and desires are different. By addressing physical, hormonal, neurological and mental wellness with a combination of conventional and holistic treatments, men can experience sexual performance and enjoyment at any age. “There’s more awareness than ever before about sexual health, and men don’t have to compromise this integral part of their overall wellness,” says Forbes.

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com.

Barefoot Blessings

BASKING IN THE SOUL OF SUMMER

by Marlaina Donato

Summer is a splashy reward after winter wears out its welcome. Spring barely has time to shake blossoms from her hair before we plunge headfirst into summer plans: vacations, barbecues and home improvement. As birds and humans go about their inspired tasks, bees and butterflies dive into their own nectarous agenda. There is no arguing that we all wake up feeling a little bit younger as the days burn longer.

Pulling weeds from the garden, deadheading the zinnias, digging our toes into wet sand and picking up sustenance at the local farmers market bring us back to our primal rhythm. We are more inclined to throw our cares to the wind and lean out of life’s open car window on the way to nowhere in particular. We do not need a plane ticket to exotic shores to find our bliss, only curiosity to explore our own backyards and fall in love with our familiar, well-worn lives.

Timed perfectly, each blossom on the wayside and in the fields has its own hour and medicine. Wildflower wisdom teaches us that we, too, can flourish on seemingly impossible terrain despite fierce opposition from those that do not recognize our value. The blessing of birdsong reminds us that our own survival game can be equally as beautiful when we embody our unique soul-note. Getting up a little earlier can lower our risk of depression and give us a front-row seat to the dew-covered world.

June beckons us to light an outdoor fire on the solstice and watch fireflies fall in love in light codes. At full power, the sun represents the sacred masculine and nature’s resurrection. We are invited to dance with the Green Man, Europe’s ancient symbol of rebirth peering from dappled forests and over church doorways. We are invited to schedule some actual repose into our vacations, even if we just take a holiday at home with a good book under a breezy tree. We are invited to live.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

CottonPro/Pexels.com

Straighten Up and Feel Right

TIPS FOR GOOD POSTURE AND A HEALTHY SPINE

by Cristina Parker, PT, DPT

Standing up straight is not just something our parents remind us to do, it also happens to be good for our health. Posture describes the position of the body in space, but the realities of how we stand and move in day-to-day life are much more complex. Healthy postures encourage proper alignment of body structures, while unhealthy postures can lead to a host of issues, including muscle and joint pain, balance impairment and decreased mobility. Awareness of the body’s proper static and dynamic position is essential to maintaining a healthy spine.

The Spine and Its Role in Posture

The body’s main support system is the spine, which consists of three sections. The cervical spine supports the weight of the head and connects it to the shoulders, enabling us to turn our heads from side to side as well as up and down. The thoracic spine stabilizes the rib cage, which protects the vital organs. The lumbar spine consists of thicker, more robust vertebrae, as they are the main load bearers and enable us to rotate our bodies and bend forward and to the side.

Muscle tightness or joint immobility can shift the spine out of its ideal positioning, causing postural dysfunction. A recent study published in the journal Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science estimates that 66 percent of the population is living with forward head posture (FHP), a cervical spine dysfunction that occurs when the head moves forward in front of the body. FHP can lead to headaches, migraines and jaw pain. Thoracic kyphosis, a rounded

upper back, reportedly impacts 20 to 50 percent of the population and impairs numerous functions, including digestion and breathing. The lumbar spine is at particularly high risk for joint disease as both lumbar muscle strength and pelvic mobility decrease in sedentary individuals. Low back and pelvic immobility are contributing factors for the estimated 103 million individuals worldwide that live with lumbar spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that may cause pain or numbness in the legs.

Three-Step Process to Take Control of Our Posture

STEP ONE: IDENTIFICATION

In her book Rethink Your Position, biomechanist Katy Bowman recommends that we pay attention to a few common signals the body sends out to alert us to an imbalanced weight distribution, including aches in the feet or low back and tension of the shoulders or neck. “Good alignment isn’t about any one fixed position, but a healthy range of positions,” she says. “By focusing less on memorizing postures and more on learning about load on parts of the body, you can optimize your positioning for many different activities.”

Bowman recommends a quick and easy way to self-assess if a postural imbalance is present and, if so, to identify where the imbalance begins: “The body’s joints stack in a vertical line. You can use a plumb line to indicate where your parts are supposed to be. If you take a string with a weight at the end and drop it down from your shoulder, it should line up with the hip, knee and ankle on the way down.”

STEP TWO: CORRECTION

Dr. Krista Burns, co-author of The Posture Principles and founder of the American Posture Institute, recommends a twominute exercise routine, performed while standing against a wall, that addresses each

segment of the spine. Repeat each exercise five times.

1. Neck retraction: Push the head forward away from the wall as far as possible, then pull it back so the base of the skull contacts the wall. Keep the eyes parallel to the horizon, rather than looking up toward the sky.

2. Posture angel: Stand with the back against the wall, elbows bent and tucked in close to the waist. Keeping the back of the hands against the wall, reach up as far as possible then slowly lower back to starting position. This movement, which is like making a snow angel while standing, should be felt between the shoulder blades when performed correctly.

3. Pelvic tilt: Arch the back so there is a small space between the wall and the lower spine, then tuck in the tail, flattening the spine against the wall and closing that space. This exercise helps initiate movement into the lower joints.

STEP THREE: MAINTENANCE

The key to maintaining a healthy posture is frequent movement, which can include an hourly stretch break or a bi-hourly range-of-motion routine to move muscles and joints throughout the day. To make postural exercises a habit, physical therapist and integrative health coach Margie Bissinger recommends pairing an exercise routine with something that is already done multiple times a day–for example, mealtime. “People are busy, so it is hard to always dedicate that mental space to awareness of their head or back position,” she states. “When they pair it with something they’re routinely doing, it becomes a habit, and that is when the mental load of the task starts to go away.”

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

Conscious Fatherhood

BUILDING A BETTER FAMILY

by Julie Peterson

Some dads believe they need to work long hours so that they can purchase better things and go on fancier vacations, but research shows that, outside of escaping poverty, money doesn’t buy happiness. Even for children, it’s not about stuff or destinations; it’s about time spent together. Fortunately, there are men teaching men to embrace the fatherhood role and take action in ways that matter most.

“All men desire to be loved, valued, needed and respected, and to know they are leaving a mark on this world. Many men look for this fulfillment in career and hobbies, but this can be found by embracing their role as fathers,” says Ned Schaut, the Hawaii-based author of The Adventure of Fatherhood. He notes that the way fathers

Photo courtesy of Chris Smith

choose to live and perform their parental roles can affect a family for generations. Learning what fatherhood entails isn’t easy for men that grew up without involved dads, which may leave them doubting that they have what it takes to lead their families. “There are endless resources to help us in our businesses or careers, but our society doesn’t get behind the message that strong families matter, that present, engaged fathers matter,” says Chris Smith, founder of Campfire Effect, a coaching business for entrepreneurs in Arizona. “In business, we apply principles around values, culture, leadership and growth, and then we go home and don’t apply these same principles.”

Define Values

The lack of fatherhood guidance led Smith to develop Family Brand, an eight-week program designed to strengthen familial bonds and create an intentional family culture. Part of the process involves parents and their kids understanding who they are and defining their values. The family joins together to come up with a series of statements to hang on the wall as a reminder of their identity and purpose.

Smith Family Brand Statements

n We believe you can be who you want to be.

n Smiths can talk about anything without judgment.

n Smiths are kindhearted.

n Smiths are creators.

n Smiths do hard things.

n Smiths are healthy and active.

n Smiths love and support one another.

Schaut offers a similar lesson plan called Family Core Values, which prompts families to decide where and how to spend their time and money, and to identify what they do and do not want. “It helps us make decisions or have conversations about who we are and how we want to treat others,” he says.

A mission statement hangs on the wall at

the home of Ben Greenfield, the Washington-based author of Boundless Parenting: Tools, Tactics and Habits of Great Parents. “It’s a collection of the family values, what the family stands for and holds dear, and what the parents want to pass on to their children,” he explains.

These kinds of value statements help promote positive energy in the home. “If the language spoken at home is limiting and negative, those words become energy that create more of that. We need to use language that is about confidence, kindheartedness and teamwork,” says Smith.

Balance Priorities

According to Schaut, “There will not be an equal balance of time in all categories of life.” Fathers need to understand what matters most to them and then dedicate their time, money and energy in alignment with those priorities.

For Smith, his family comes first, and he makes sure that his business revolves around the home. “We always prioritize family, even if that comes at the price of career,” he says.

Greenfield stacks his priorities in this order: faith first, followed by his relationship with his spouse, family, health and business. His time is meticulously scheduled so that he can dedicate quality time to all of his priorities. He regularly involves his kids in his spiritual practice and exercise routines to set an example and instill positive habits.

Time dedicated to each child is a priority in strong families. Each of Greenfield’s kids has monthly one-on-one dates with Mom and with Dad, two-on-one quality time every Sunday and daily check-ins every morning and during family dinners. “We’ve noticed that our kids will open up and talk to us during a one-on-one,” Smith asserts.

Discipline With Love

Smith suggests reimagining the way dads approach discipline. “If you tell your kid, ‘What you did was bad,’ it’s hard for them to hear what you say next, because you are attacking them. If we talk about working or not working, you can say, ‘That really doesn’t work and here’s why.’ Kids are then more open to hearing and learning,” he explains.

Discipline needs to be thoughtfully appropriate for each child and each situation. “You have to know and be in tune with your kid,” says Schaut. “When you discipline them, it must come from love and you responding as a dad to the situation, not reacting.”

But talking will never overcome modeling. “What they see you doing is more important than the advice you give them,” says Greenfield. “At the end of the day, kids just want to be seen and loved and heard.”

Julie Peterson writes on health, wellness and environmental topics. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Greener Grilling

The aroma of tasty treats sizzling on an outdoor grill evokes memories of laughter among family and friends, picnic tables brimming with colorful foods and the joy of running barefoot in the grass. This year, consider adding a few eco-friendly upgrades to America’s favorite summer tradition.

Fuel Source Matters

The biggest environmental impact from outdoor grilling comes from the fuel source. Here is a handy comparison of the options.

n Charcoal briquettes are little chunks of carbon made by baking wood byproducts, sawdust and other additives. Charcoal burns inefficiently and produces caustic smoke before and after the useful temperature for cooking. To reduce the carbon footprint, consider sustainably sourced bamboo or coconut shells to flame up the barbie.

n Gas grills burn fossil fuels like propane or natural gas. On the other

hand, they produce fewer carbon emissions than charcoal, heat more quickly and can be turned off immediately.

n Electric grills may seem more eco-friendly for backyard cookouts, but most electricity is derived from fossil fuels. If the home runs on renewable energy, electric wins. Otherwise, gas grills have a smaller carbon footprint.

n Infrared is the latest in barbecue technology. These pricey outdoor grills can reach high temperatures quickly, use less fuel and cook foods evenly. Because they use electric or gas heating elements that radiate infrared waves to the food, they generally run for less time than other grills. One drawback is that their high temperatures can easily overcook or burn foods, especially ingredients that don’t need high temperatures, like fish, vegetables and other seafood.

Cleaning Is Paramount

Regardless of the fuel source, it is important to keep the grill free of grease and food particles to prevent more smoke. When the grill is still warm, clean the grates with a wire brush. If grates are already cool, scrub with baking soda and water.

Caramelized Fruits and Vegetables

Burgers and ribs may be synonymous with traditional cookouts, but the modern barbecue menu isn’t all about meat. Recipes abound for grilled veggies and fruits that lend a delicious smoky and caramelized flavor to these nutritious foods. Embrace the appeal of slightly charred corn on the cob, browned portobello mushrooms and grill-marked pineapple. If meat-free burgers won’t please the crowd, look for certified organic, grass-fed and locally raised meats.

calendar of events

EVERY TUESDAY

Hoboken Farmer’s Market—2:00-6:00 pm. 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 AND THURSDAY

Kids Art Classes at the Museum—10:00 am–12:00 pm. 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

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

Walking Book Club—10:30-11:30am. Walking Book Club Ready, set, walk! Join our Walking Book Club where you walk with us and talk about our book of the month! Meet us in front of the library to start our adventure around Hoboken. We’ll discuss the book, and pick the next great read while walking with our library friends this summer! If you have any questions, please contact Natalie: natalie.castillo@hoboken.bccls. org. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https://bccls.libcal. com/event/10687233. Location: 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

Everyone Can Do Yoga - Mindful Movement Yoga Classes—2:00-3:15 pm. Kripalu yoga is a type of hatha yoga that emphasizes mindfulness and self-compassion. An inclusive and non-competitive practice, Kripalu yoga can be practiced by people of all ages and levels of fitness. The practice can be adapted to meet the needs of each individual. Please note that you will have to register each week for class. If you have any questions please email Laura Knittel a laura.knittel@ hoboken.bccls.org. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https:// bccls.libcal.com/event/10616708. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

Fraud Watch Network Basics—1:00-2:30 pm. This presentation by the AARP New Jersey Speaker’s Bureau will teach you how to spot and avoid identity theft. Please join us for this informative program and learn the red flags of identity theft. Identity theft can disrupt your finances, credit history, and reputation, and take time, money, and patience to resolve. Light refreshments will be served. Please register online or by

calling 201-547-4501 or tuckers@jclibrary.org. Visit https://jclibrary.libcal.com/event/10658366?hs=a.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

BookBike Story Time—10:30-11:30 am. Catch the BookBike every Thursday at Elysian Park in Hoboken! Children’s Story Time starts at 10:30 AM. All ages are welcome to come & sign up for a library card or check out & return books until 11:30 AM. **Weather permitting.** Before heading to the park, please check this calendar. If inclement weather impacts this program, we will note its cancellation here. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https://bccls.libcal.com/event/10134704. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

ESL Class—11:30 am-1:30 pm. Spring ESL classes are FULL. There is a waitlist for future classes. Potential students wishing to be added to the waitlist may reach out to Tamar Samuel-Siegel, Literacy NJ Program Coordinator, by email (tsamuelsiegel@ literacynj.org). Please be advised that there may be a delay in response due to high volume of inquiries. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https://bccls.libcal.com/ event/10315675. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Afterschool Board Games (all ages)—4:00-5:30 pm. All are invited to drop in at the Main library and play some of our favorite board games. Bring your own or choose one from our collection. Come alone or with a group. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https:// kearnylibrary.org/event/afterschool-board-gamesall-ages/2023-06-08/ . Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Bird Walk with Mr. Train!—4:00-5:00 pm. Meet us in front of the Hoboken Public Library at 500 Park Avenue as Mr. Train guides young naturalists on a series of bird discoveries around Hoboken. Each mini-journey will finish with a fun activity designed to help participants connect with nature through gratitude, kindness, and awe. Recommended for ages 7-11. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https://bccls.libcal. com/event/10718666. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Live Event: Poetry Healing Group—6:30-7:30 pm. Join us for a monthly poetry group on Thursday, June 8 at 6:30 PM. The Poetry Healing Group is designed to promote a sense of belonging, critical thinking, and the opportunity for communal healing through connectedness. Each session will focus on a specific theme with poems and prompts that compliment the group discussion. Copies of already published poems and prompts will be given to each member. Additional physical props will be used to create an immersive experience. Participants have the opportunity to read poems aloud, discuss craft elements, analyze, and brain storm ideas for free writing. Please email hplwriters@ gmail.com if you have any questions or to let us know you plan to attend. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https:// bccls.libcal.com/event/10665759. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

FRIDAY, JUNE 9

Baby-Toddler Preschool Story Time —11:0011:30 am. Join us for music, activities, stories and more! For Kearny Residents only. Parent Participation is required. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https:// kearnylibrary.org/event/baby-toddler-preschoolstory-time-4/2023-06-09/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Sewing with Mrs. Martina (PreK – 2nd grade)—10:30-11:30 am. Join instructor Mrs. Martina for a fun, interactive sewing workshop. All materials will be provided. All children in grades PreK – 2 are welcome, but space is limited to ten students. Call (201)998-2666 or email us at kearnylibrary22@gmail. com to reserve your spot! Visit https://kearnylibrary. org/event/holiday-sewing-with-mrs-martina/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Vic Fine Art Exhibition—1:00-3:00pm. Biblioteca Criolla invites you to meet “Vic,” an artist who creates artwork that transmits energy and tranquility. We will also be delighted by Mathy Pillai who will dance classical Indian style dancing. Light refreshements will be served. Call 201-547-4526 or criolla@ jclibrary.org. Location: 472 Jersey Ave (4th Floor), Jersey City, NJ 07302. Visit https://jclibrary.libcal. com/event/10696754?hs=a.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14

Senior Father’s Day BBQ—12:00-2:00 pm. Join us for a Father’s Day BBQ at Monroe Gardens. The Library will be there with free books, crafts, and library card sign-up! Lunch provided by the Hoboken Housing Authority. Call 201-420-2346 or Visit https:// bccls.libcal.com/event/10580644. Location:- 500 Park Avenue, Hoboken NJ 07030.

Garden Planter Craft (1st grade & up)—4:305:30 pm. All children in 1st grade and up are invited to join us for a special craft session. Decorate your very own flower pot and then learn how to plant a beautiful flower inside. Weather permitting, we will hold this class outside in our own garden space. If not, we will move inside to our lower level. Space is limited. If interested, please call the library or email us at kearnylibrary22@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Visit https://kearnylibrary.org/event/gardenplanter-craft-1st-grade-up/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

Adult Cooking Fresh Ingredients Workshop—5:00-6:00 pm. The Kearny Public Library is excited to announce another Fresh Ingredients cooking Workshop with instructor Lidia Quinones on Wednesday, June 14. The class will meet in the lower level kitchen at the Main Library, located at 318 Kearny Ave. All ingredients will be provided. All adults are welcome on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited. Please plan on arriving early. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https://kearnylibrary.org/event/ adult-cooking-fresh-ingredients-soup-workshop-2/ . Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

TUESDAY, JUNE 20

Outdoor Spring Craft Session (all ages)—4:00-5:00 pm. Drop in and join us at the Main Library for some

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.

fun, hands-on Spring craft projects. Stay and work with us if a table is available or take your craft kit to go. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https://kearnylibrary.org/event/ outdoor-spring-craft-session-all-ages/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

Summer Reading Kickoff Magic Show with Brian Richards—5:30-6:30 pm. All are invited to join us as we kick off the Summer Reading season with an amazing magic show, featuring the talents of Brian Richards. Space is limited. If interested, please plan on arriving early. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https:// kearnylibrary.org/event/summer-reading-kickoffmagic-show-with-brian-richards/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

Bike Hoboken Community Ride—11:00 am-1:00 pm. Join Bike Hoboken for our community ride around the square mile city! Follow Bike Hoboken for announcements of starting locations: https://bikehoboken.org/. Email for Questions:- HobokenEmily@ gmail.com or Visit https://hudcostreets.org/events/ bhob-06-25-23. Location:- Hoboken, NJ, 07030

MONDAY, JUNE 27

Emoji Craft Summer Kickoff (1st grade and up)— 10:00-11:30 am. The Kearny Public Library invites all children 1st grade and up to our annual Emoji Craft Summer Kickoff on Tuesday, June 27 at 2:00 PM. Help us kick off the Summer! While attendees watch

The Emoji Movie, they will have the chance to work on a couple related crafts. Space is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis. If interested, please plan on arriving early. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https://kearnylibrary.org/event/emoji-craftday-2nd-grade-and-up/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

TUESDAY, JUNE 28

KPL Ping Pong Club (ages 8 & up)—3:00-4:30 pm. Calling all ping pong fans! Come learn the basics of the game and get a chance to play on one of our two new tables. Space is limited. If interested, please plan on arriving early. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https:// kearnylibrary.org/event/kpl-ping-pong-club-ages8-up/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032

THURSDAY, JUNE 30

Zumbini Preschool Program (ages 0-4)—11:00 am-12:00 pm. Join us as we welcome back Sarah Viviani to the Main Library for a Preschool Zumbini program. For Kearny residents only. The Zumbini program combines music, dance and educational tools for 45 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning, and fun! All families with children up to four years old are invited, but please note that space is limited to 20. If interested, please plan on arriving early. Call 201-998-2666 or Visit https:// kearnylibrary.org/event/zumbini-preschool-programages-0-4-2022-07-22/2023-06-30/. Location:- 318 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

life, allowing for tremendous and easy change.

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 21.

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 24.

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 ad, page 2.

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 page 3.

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 13.

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 below.

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Dr. Lorraine Maita, the Hormone Harmonizer and Detoxifier, can help you have boundless energy, stable moods, a lean body, sharp, clear mind and balance your hormones so you can feel like yourself again and even better.

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