THE HEALING POTENTIAL OF PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINES

Promising Studies on Stress Disorder, Depression and Addiction

by Linda Sechrist

cendeced/AdobeStock.com

For more than 30 years, intersections of the human and natural world—our plates, farms and gardens—have been of interest to author Michael Pollan, who recently added the mind as another significant association in his latest book, How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression and Transcendence.

Pollan’s interest was sparked by two articles. The first, a New York Times story, “Hallucinogens Have Doctors Tuning In Again,” details how researchers from Johns Hopkins, the University of Arizona, Harvard, New York University (NYU), the University of California/ Los Angeles and other institutions had been giving doses of psilocybin—the psychoactive compound in certain mushrooms—to terminal cancer patients as a way to help them deal with their “existential distress” at the approach of death. The second, a peer-reviewed article in the Journal of Psychopharmacology by Johns Hopkins researchers, was entitled “Psilocybin Can Occasion Mystical-Type Experiences Having Substantial and Sustained Personal Meaning and Spiritual Significance.” Pollan turned his journalistic skills to researching the potential of psychedelics to actually heal the mind and treat mental and behavioral disorders, and the book that resulted became a number one New York Times bestseller.

Research Breaks New Ground

Much of the research for studying psychedelic medicine has been supported by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). The 35-year-old Santa Cruz, California, nonprofit is currently backing research into psychoactive methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), also referred to as ecstasy, which produces effects resembling stimulants and psychedelics, as well as a feeling of connectedness. It plans to publish the full results of phase three clinical trials for MDMA-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2022, the final stage before seeking U.S. Food & Drug Administration approval for its use as a prescription treatment.

MAPS founder and Executive Director Rick Doblin, Ph.D., who spent 30 years studying how psychedelics might help heal trauma and mental illness, was trained and mentored by Stanislav Grof, M.D. A renowned psychiatrist with more than 60 years of experience researching non-ordinary states of consciousness, Grof proposes that psychedelics are to the study of the mind what microscopes are to biology and the telescope is to astronomy. When used wisely, he suggests, they can heal, inspire and perhaps save us.

Researchers have found that psychedelics reduce activity in the brain’s default mode network that creates our sense of self—the equivalent of our ego—filtering all incoming information according to personal needs and priorities. When activity is reduced in the default mode network, the ego shifts from the foreground to the background, allowing us to see that we’re part of a larger field of awareness. This can be among an individual’s most important experiences, allowing for feelings of connectedness, altruism and acceptance of death.

Psychedelics as Treatment

Since 2010, in addition to treating PTSD, MDMA has shown positive results for depression, social anxiety in autistic adults and anxiety associated with a life-threatening illness. Johns Hopkins and NYU research has demonstrated how psilocybin can help with treatmentresistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and addiction. Both MDMA and psilocybin have been studied as adjuncts or catalysts to psychotherapy rather than as standalone treatments.

Jennifer Phelps, M.D., who teaches for the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C., and practices family and integrative medicine in Georgetown, Connecticut, says that psilocybin can transform a terminally ill individual’s quality of life for the remainder of their time. “This compassionate use can presently only be prescribed by a physician with the required license issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Presently, LSD, MDMA and psilocybin can only be prescribed for research,” she says.

Charley Wininger, a Brooklyn-based psychotherapist, authored Listening to Ecstasy: The Transformative Power of MDMA after experiencing its positive effects on his marriage and psyche. “For those who experiment responsibly, psychedelics can open their lives up to spiritual growth and transformation. It’s a way to learn about how connected we are to each other, to the natural world and to the world at large. When you experience this level of connection, you and your worldview are transformed,” he says.

“MDMA helped me with the aging process. I keep growing and exploring consciousness in an unconventional way,” he adds, enthusing that psychedelics can be a unique, life-enhancing opportunity for healthy people across their entire adult lifespan.

Wininger explains that MDMA floods the body with serotonin and oxytocin, creating a sense of safety and well-being. “It’s best to do it with a trained psychotherapist or sitter, so that if any trauma surfaces, it can be relieved with a sense of safety. While individuals report that their relationship to trauma is altered permanently, integration groups give them opportunities to share and anchor their experiences.”

Getting Informed

Daniel Shankin, program director of the wellness organization Tam Integration, Align and Flow, in Fairfax, California, offers mindfulness-based coaching and mentorships to integrate psychedelics with life, education and a related career. “Having a guide, preparation coach or therapist is good,” he says. “For the transformation to be lasting, preparation work is needed. Answering questions such as—Why are you here? What are your expectations? And what makes you feel safe and comfortable?—helps to build rapport with a guide that can help you form a simple, powerful intention beforehand.

“Personal growth work is invaluable to psychonauts,” says Shankin, who offers podcast interviews on TamIntegration.com, as well as replays of a 2019 Psilocybin Summit in which notable speakers explore the facets of psilocybin mushrooms and methods for creating ceremony and holding a safe space. Also discussed are traditional and indigenous use, as well as efforts to change public policy so that individuals can legally have access to psychedelic medicine.

The Center for Psychedelic Therapies and Research at the California Institute of Integral Studies also educates the public about psychedelic medicines and trains psychotherapists to work in the expanding field of psychedelic studies. Its online programs inform the general public via podcasts about conscious medicine and the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy, which appears promising in light of the recent decriminalization of psilocybin in Oakland, Denver and Washington, D.C.

Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.

MONDAY, MARCH 1

Author Lecture/Discussion: Deacon King Kong,

a novel by James McBride – 6:30-8:30pm. A mystery story, a crime novel, an urban farce, a sociological portrait of late-1960s Brooklyn: McBride’s novel contains multitudes. He conducts his antic symphony with deep feeling, never losing sight of the suffering and inequity within the merriment. Meet in the bistro’s private room; future books will be chosen by the group. Amelia’s Bistro, 187 Warren St, Jersey City. Meetup.com/JC-BookClub/. Prenatal Yoga – Through Mar: Mon & Wed, 7:308:30pm; Sat, 10-11am. For mammas-to-be, post-natal, and any other women who would like to join. This is a gentle yoga class focusing on areas of the body that ask for extra attention during pregnancy. Each class is tailored for the women in the room and their specific needs and desires. This is a semi-private class (five students maximum), so that each woman can receive personalized attention and support. Come to move, breathe, open the body in preparation for labor and delivery, and simply to connect with other women. $40/one class, $175/five classes. Celebrate Life Studio, 1200 Park Ave, Hoboken. 201-687-9901. Register: CelebrateLifeStudioHoboken.com.

TUESDAY, MARCH 2

Kids Art Classes – Through Mar. 11am-2pm. Museum Kids Art Classes take place three days a week – Tues, Thurs, Fri – for fun art making in the Museum walkway. Recommended for ages 2-5. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Art materials are provided, and adults must wear masks and maintain social distance. Seating available first-come, firstserved. Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St, Hoboken. 201-656-2240. HobokenMuseum.org. Shamanic Sound Journey – 7:30-9pm. In studio & livestream. Leigh Higgins leads a sound immersion for the soul, using vocals and a variety of ancient instruments to shift our inner and outer perspective, helping discover our spirit guides and soul’s path. At the core of this path are experiential practices that lead to a deeper understanding of who we are. By exploring these practices personally and as a community, we learn to access the wisdom of spirit and make changes that enable us to feel fully connected. $25/livestream, $35/in studio. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, Fourth Fl, Hoboken. To register: 201-683-4002. UrbanSoulsYoga.com. RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles– 8pm.In celebration of the anniversary of Abbey Road, RAIN will bring the greatest hits of this epic recording to life, in addition to all your early Beatles favorites. This performance takes you back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event that is “the next best thing to seeing the Beatles.” Experience the worlds’ most iconic band and come celebrate the best of Abbey Road. Tickets from $49. Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 North Van Brunt St, Englewood. 201-227-1030. BergenPAC.org. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3

Writing for Wellness – Wed through Mar. 1-2:30pm. An online support group that fosters expression. Led by a social work professional, writing sessions will cover positive coping skills, self-care journaling, reflection activities and more. All sessions will be live on Zoom and open to adults and young adults. Free. Information and registration: HobokenLibrary.org/Literacy/.

mark your calendar

Main Street Pops Artisan Market

Open-Air Artisan Market providing a public venue in Hoboken for high quality artisans and makers to sell their handmade goods as well as for local residents to enjoy their neighborhood, view art, and engage with one another. See a varied collection of local makers and artists offering their unique, hand-crafted creations including: Fashion, Accessories, Jewelry, Bath Products, Pet Products, Home Goods, Fine Art, Photography, Sweets and more! Starting March 21

Every 3rd Sundays of the Month

and the First Three Weeks in December

11am-4pm

Under 14th Street Viaduct, Hoboken

Meet the Artist: Vincent Van Gogh – 7-8:30pm. This program will be presented on Zoom. Vincent Van Gogh is a painter whose name is known throughout the world, but this wasn’t always the case. What do you really know about Van Gogh? Discover the life of history’s most famous and storied painter. WoodbridgeLibrary.evanced.info/Signup/. THURSDAY, MARCH 4

One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure – Thur.-Sat, 10:55am and 1pm. Explore the night sky with Big Bird, Elmo, and a friend from China named Hu Hu Zhu. In this planetarium show featuring beloved characters from Sesame Street, you’ll learn about the Big Dipper, the North Star, the Sun and the Moon. It’s the perfect introduction to space for our youngest astronomers! Recommended for ages 8 and younger. Free with admission. Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City. 201-200-1000. LSC.org. SUNDAY, MARCH 7

Let It Go! 2-4pm. Livestream. Letting it go. Easier said than done. To aid you in this journey, Jenna Roth has curated a unique workshop specifically designed to support your practice so that you can let go of all that you no longer need, making space to invite in more of what aligns with and serves you best! This workshop includes tools, resources, journal prompts, and practices all crafted to support your intention. $25. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, Fourth Fl, Hoboken. To register: 201-683-4002. UrbanSoulsYoga.com. Superhero Laser Show – Weekends, 4pm. Rock out to iconic songs from superhero movies and shows set to high-tech lasers. Bam! Pow! Zap! Show is recommended for ages 5 and up. Free with admission. Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City. 201-200-1000. LSC.org. KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions – Sundays, 6pm. A weekly radio show hosted by the Film Critics, a nationwide team of more than 60 youth entertainment reporters, ages 8 to 21, who attend press screenings, press junkets, premieres and red carpets and other media events. They give you the latest news about media for kids, by kids. Before you spend your hard-earned money at the movies, listen to what they have to say. VoiceAmerica.com/ Show/1950/Kids-First-Coming-Attractions. TUESDAY, MARCH 9

Bayonne Midtown Book Club – 7-8:30pm. Interested in reading good books and discussing them in an open and social environment? The newly formed Bayonne Midtown Book Club will meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Come and engage in some lively discussions. Join anytime, this is an ongoing program. Book Club coordinators are Peg Margoshes and Peg Osnato. Questions: BayMidBookGroup @gmail.com. Free. Board room, 2nd Fl, Bayonne Free Public Library, 697 Avenue C (Corner of 31st Street), Bayonne. HOHA Run – Tuesdays, 7:40pm. The Hoboken Harriers Running Club, a diverse group of runners/joggers, welcomes runners of all abilities for a 3.1-mile run. 13th Street & Washington, Hoboken. Libations: The Shepherd & The Knucklehead. Info: HOHA.net. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10

The Womb Happy Hour Radio Show – Weds, 6-7pm. Lorraine Giordano, founder of a company dedicated to helping women lead more healthful lives, hosts a live Internet talk radio show that gets beyond taboos about the vagina. VoiceAmerica.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 11

Winter-Spring Farmer’s Market – Thur. through Apr 22. 4-6pm. The Historic Downtown Jersey City farmers’ market features various NJ vendors and local Jersey City vendors: Mother Nature’s beauty soaps, gourmet nuts & dried fruit, Vesco Foods, For the Love of Toffee, LLC, River Valley Community Grains, Stony Hill Farms, Jersey City Fish Stand, Hoboken Farms, R&M Farms, cake jars, Le Coco Nutrition. On the Grove PATH Plaza.

The Awesome – 7-8:30pm. Leigh Higgins and Brendan Gibbons combine ancient practices and modern science to improve and maintain your vital energy flow. The Awesome combines Qi Qong, Vigorous Breathing, Body Tapping, and Energy Flow Meditation for tuning into your body’s potential to feel both revitalized and relaxed! It maximizes your innate healing and recovery systems, while releasing deeply held stress and stagnant energy. $25/livestream, $35/in studio. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, Fourth Fl, Hoboken. To register: 201-683-4002. UrbanSoulsYoga.com. HOHA Run – Thursdays, 7:40pm. The Hoboken Harriers Running Club, a diverse group of runners/ joggers, welcomes runners of all abilities for a 5.2-mile run. 6th Street & Washington, Hoboken. Libations: Moran’s Pub. Info: HOHA.net.

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

JazzDance for Teens: Intermediate/Advanced– Friday, 6:30-7:15pm. The dance styles in this class are as broad as Broadway itself. Traditional Broadway style jazz dance routines and choreography will be mixed with current production numbers from contemporary musicals. All styles of jazz incorporated include 80s/90s jazz, current commercial jazz, funk, and more.$109/month for 1 class. Garden Street School of Performing Arts, 1018 Washington Street, 2nd Floor, Hoboken. 201-683-9100. GardenStreetMusic.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13

Seasonal Scavenger Hunt – Mar 13-14. Families will receive a digital set of clues through email to independently solve nature riddles along Nature Center trails. Each family will need to work as a team as they hike along the trails to complete the hunt. Program is intended for families with children 4 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Program will be held entirely outdoors. In case of inclement weather, the program will be postponed the program to the following month. Social distancing in effect. Masks required when distance cannot be maintained. Space is limited and pre-registration is recommended. $10/ non-member family, free/member family and children under 2. Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly. 201-568-6093. TenaflyNatureCenter.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 14

Sound-Based Stress Reduction III – 2:30-4pm. Zoom seminar: Strengthening Your Boundaries. Learn about the five different kinds of boundaries that you need in your life; explore why it is sometimes difficult, but necessary, to set boundaries; learn practical boundarysetting tools; experience a live sound bath experience; receive original sound meditation recordings to assist you in developing your own sound meditation practice. Co-facilitated by a registered social worker/psychotherapist and certified sound therapy practitioner, explore ways to reduce stress and provide simple tools for better mental health. Session will conclude with a live sound bath experience tailored to soothe the central nervous system. $145. Register: SoundResponseWellness.com/ Workshops-Events.

TUESDAY, MARCH 16

Basic Life Support Training Certification – BLS for Healthcare Providers uses a scenario-based approach to develop the critical thinking and problemsolving skills that drive better outcomes for adult, child, and infant patients. Topics include: choking, critical thinking and problem solving, communication and teamwork and many more. $77. Hudson County Community College, 161 Newkirk St, Jersey City. To register: 201-360-4239. Time, details: Syashayeva@ hccc.edu. HCCC.edu/ContinuingEducation.

THURSDAY, MARCH 18

Small Group Yin Yoga and Meditation – Thurs through Mar, 6:30-7:45pm. A socially distanced small group studio class, masks required to practice. Yin yoga invites us to hold our postures for several minutes at a time in order to begin to release tension in the connective tissues or fascia that surrounds the muscles and joints and open energetic pathways in the body. Each class ends with a guided meditation designed to relax the body and calm the mind.Class is limited to 6 students. You must bring your own mat, blanket and/ or blocks. Sattva Yoga Jersey City, 523 Palisade Ave, Jersey City. 201-839-5242. SattvaYogaJC.com. What’s Next for Human Space Travel? – 7-8pm. Zoom program about the upcoming human space programs planned by the United States, China, Russia and four U.S. commercial companies! Paul Cirillo of the New Jersey Astronomical Association will fill us in on what’s in store for space stations and gateways, moon bases, a journey to Mars and even space tourism will be presented. WoodbridgeLibrary.evanced.info/Signup/. Prenatal Class – 9-12pm. Avirtual childbirth education class that provides detailed information on what to expect during the birthing process as well as breathing and relaxation techniques. Classes are taught by experienced and certified instructors. Information on newborn care is also presented by a board-certified pediatrician. Free. Riverside Medical Group, 1st Fl, 1 Harmon Plaza, Secaucus. 201-552-2333. RiversideMedGroup.com/prenatal-classes/ Floral Arranging Workshop – 11am-2pm.Larkspur Botanicals will be guiding guests in creating their own floral arrangement to take home and enjoy. Pretty in pinks with fresh cut and preserved elements to enjoy for an extended time. First timers welcome, no experience needed. Must preregister. $40. The Cottage, 136 Monticello Ave, Jersey City. 201-200-7067. TheCottageJerseyCity.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 25

Pranic Vibes Energy Healing w/Mary Kate Kelly &

Leigh Higgins – 7-8:30pm. A breathwork and sound journey: breathwork (also known as pranayama) and sound are used as powerful practices to stimulate our body’s innate healing response. When combined energetically, we are able to activate the nervous system in a profound way. By following the rhythm of our breath, stuck or sluggish energy and trapped emotions rise to the surface to be released. If you are joining livestream, 30 minutes prior to the start time of the workshop, you will receive a link to the Zoom meeting. $25/livestream, $35/in studio. Urban Souls Yoga, 100 Hudson St, Fourth Fl, Hoboken. To register: 201-683-4002. UrbanSoulsYoga.com. SUNDAY, MARCH 28

Full Moon Hike – 7-9pm. This 2-hr adults-only walk by moonlight through the Lost Brook Preserve is approximately 1.5 miles, with a quiet rest stop at the Purple and Allison Trail crossing. The hike encourages reflection and connection with nature while experiencing the trails in a new way. Please bring a flashlight and wearsturdy closed toed shoes. Program will be held entirely outdoors. In case of inclement weather, the program will be.Social distancing in effect.Masks required when distance cannot be maintained.Space is limited and pre-registration is required. $10, $5/members. Tenafly Nature Center, Visitor Center, 313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly. RSVP: 201-568-6093. TenaflyNatureCenter.org. SUNDAY, APRIL 4

Folk Dance or Drum Class – Sundays. Dance 2-3pm; Drum 3-4pm. Learn the rich cultural Afro-Puerto Rican folkloric music with our dance and drum classes for La Bomba y La Plena. It’s open for both kids (7 and older) and adults, so bring your family and friends. Sign up for the class on Eventbrite or use registration form on website: SegundaQuimbamba.org. $20/drop in per class, $150/ten class package. Segunda Quimbamba Folkloric Center, 279 Second St, Jersey City.

communityresourceguide CAFE PEANUT 586 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in 201-721-6270 • CafePeanut.com our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Funky cafe dedicated to quality Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAHudson.com to request our media kit. foods using locally grown, natural and organic produce. Menu selections include DENTIST FITNESS delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, pastries, and artisan coffees & teas.

LOUIS STEINBERG, DDS, MS PRIME CYCLE HOBOKEN

6050 Boulevard E, Ste LE, West New York, NJ 201-662-2020 • DrLMSteinberg.com Biological dentist offering mercury-safe dentistry, Biocompatible Restorative Dentistry and TMJ analysis and treatment. See ad on page 6.

FAMILY

ALPHAKEY CLUB

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

FASHION

EMBROIDERED PANDA

Jersey City, NJ EmbroideredPanda.com

Embroidered Panda is a minoritywoman-owned business that normally specializes in delightful, thoughtful and sometimes quirky embroidery customized for weddings, babies, and even pets. Owner Amanda “Panda” Farrell also makes masks that are available online, and at Love Locked, 353 Grove Street in Jersey City, a woman-owned small business that features the work of local artists.

ONE/SOL

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

ONE/SOL is a lifestyle boutique devoted to the wellness scene. It offers beautiful clothing and accessories to add confidence and color to someone’s wardrobe, and is also a unique haven for events, bringing all types of people and their fabulous energy together to experience parts of themselves... variations of wellness that can propel them to truly find “what makes their SOL happy”. 70 Hudson St, Hoboken, NJ 201-683-6956 • PrimeCycle.com Prime Cycle Hoboken is now offering more than 25 outdoor classes a week—from early morning to midday to evenings, including Saturday and Sunday mornings—on the Hoboken Little League field, on 5th Street.

PUMP HOBOKEN

401 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ

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

HEALTHY FOODS

BUSY BEE ORGANICS

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

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

BWÈ KAFE

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

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

KEY FRESH AND NATURAL

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

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

PLANT BASE JC

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

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

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

ANCHOR THERAPY

223 Bloomfield St, Ste. 121, Hoboken, NJ 201-565-2275 • AnchorTherapy.org Therapy is the anchor that holds life together through choppy waters. Anchor Therapy specializes in helping teens and adults through these times. Their experience and professional skills help clients feel better sooner. Call for a free consultation.

Acupuncture Atelier offers undivided personalized attention during each and every session. Sara and Samia pride themselves on being unique and adaptable. Treatments may include acupuncture, reiki, aromatherapy, moxibustion, cupping, auricular therapy, as well as ancient Shamanic healing methods.

BABY STEPS PEDIATRICS

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

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

FOOT AND ANKLE PREMIER SPECIALISTS

Dr. Juliana Paternina 70 Hudson St, Hoboken, NJ 201-659-5222 • FootandAnklePS.com Dr. Juliana Paternina, is a board- certified Foot and Ankle Reconstructive Surgeon. She provides compassionate and comprehensive care for both adult and pediatric patients with any type of foot and ankle needs. She is well known for being thorough and for having a holistic approach. Specialties include dermatologic foot conditions, any foot and ankle deformities including bunions and hammertoes, chronic nerve pain, sports-related injuries including heel pain, fractures, sprains, and treatment of diabetic foot complications. See ad, page 23.

HABIT DISRUPTION THERAPY

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

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

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

INSPIRED TO HEALTH

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

JACQUIE BIRD, SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

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

JC BUMP AND BABY

Jersey City, NJ JCBumpAndBaby.com

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

LOTUS GENESIS WELLNESS CENTER

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

A holistic sanctuary offering a team of healers, therapists, mind-body experts and a naturopathic doctor, who combine various modalities from energy healing, diet and nutrition, to hypnotherapy and body work. Lotus Genesis offers a full line of wellness services, from detox and weight-loss programs, to caring for more complex medical issues. Their unique focus and approach to addressing root causes allows for rapid and long-term wellness. See ad, page 25.

MIND BODY HOBOKEN

51 Newark Street, Ste. 402, Hoboken, NJ 201-994-3500 • MindBodyHoboken.com Mind Body Hoboken works with individuals, corporate teams and small business owners to find balance in their personal and professional life. Finding the calm and peace in life is essential to balancing out the “fight or flight” response caused by stress. Founder/ practitioner Jennifer Araneo utilizes neurolinguistic programming, hypnosis, meditation and reiki to help clients find the Zen in their lives.

MINDFUL PLAY YOGA

646-552-2982 MindfulPlayYoga@gmail.com

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

OLEVIA METRY, MD

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

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

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

SALVATION WELLNESS

150 Bay St. #912, 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

64 Newark Street, Hoboken, NJ 20 Church Street, Montclair, NJ TheGreenRoomNJ.com

Hoboken and Montclair’s first CBD shops that provide both in-person and online shopping. Owner Darek Michael offers education and high-quality products. The Green Room is open 7 days a week, from 11am10pm in Hoboken and 11am-8pm in Montclair.

VICTORIA REED MASSAGE THERAPY

Victoria Radzinski, LMT, CPT 201-551-7154 • VictoriaReed.Info@gmail.com VictoriaReedMassageTherapy.com As a licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Personal Trainer and Yoga instructor, Victoria’s healing and relaxing services reverse the effects of daily stress by repairing damaged muscle tissue to eliminate aches and pains throughout the body. Improve circulation, detoxify your body, and increase mental alertness as you decompress with her carefully designed massages. Victoria’s drive behind her work stems from her observations on today’s lifestyle/living. Vida-Flo services offer IV hydration treatments, essential gains, advanced gains, injectable treatments & oxygen. All treatments are provided by trained nurses in a clean medical spa environment for your comfort.

OUTDOORS

A SMALL GREEN SPACE

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

PETS

GALLA WELLNESS

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

HOBOKEN JENGO

Hoboken, NJ 732-277-0284 • Hello@HobokenJengo.com HobokenJengo.com Hoboken Jengo is a sustainable online shop designed to empower pets and their humans with ways to reduce their environmental impact through minimally processed highquality treats, safe lasting toys, and ethically-sourced products that spark joy, foster health, and make a positive difference. The name Jengo is derived from kujenga, a Swahili word which means “to build”. Hoboken Jengo provides access to eco-friendly, unique mission-driven brands for dogs, cats and humans in one central place. Holistic Pet Care of Little Falls provides guidance on optimum diet and environment, and how to minimizing negative elements/toxins to keep your pet healthier and living longer. Holistic and complementary modalities include acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, homeopathy, bach flow remedies, herbal therapies (western, chinese & ayurvedic), nutritional therapy, ozone therapy, cold laser therapy, and reiki for addressing problems and for preventive care.

MEOW MINI MART

Sherry Cassin Hello@MeowMiniMart.com MeowMiniMart.com

Online cat boutique featuring unique and sustainably made fashion pet collars, home and kitchen gifts, cat toys and wellness products. See charming and sophisticated collections created by artisans and designers who love all animals, especially cats! A percentage of every sale is donated to local cat rescue groups to help pay the vet bills.

PAWTANICALS

7622 Broadway, North Bergen, NJ 201-520-3036 • Pawtanicals.com Pawtanicals was established to give pet owners the accessibility of washing their pets without space constraints–as they normally would do at home in their bath tubs. It allows for pet owners to create a stronger bonding experience while simultaneously making their pets feel safe and secure having their owners personally wash them.

THE CUDDLY BOUTIQUE

TheCuddlyBoutique.com Founded by pet parents, Tom & Kimberley Bueno-Schonig of The Cuddly Cottage pet sitting service, the Cuddly Boutique is an online pet store that sells a variety of special gifts from cozy sweaters to unique toys. Their promise is that The Cuddly Boutique products will give your pet that “this is the best gift ever” look in their eyes and give you that warm and cuddly feeling in your heart.

SKINCARE

SEAZEN SOAP

Hoboken, NJ SeazenSoap.com

Handmade local luxury products for your skin. The Seazen Soap company specializes in natural soaps, skin butter and CBD products.