Ihope everyone is enjoying the warm summer and bright outdoors. The average temperature has been higher this year, but we had plenty of rain to to cool things down inbetween. It has been a very good time to travel and enjoy the nature with friends and family. Stay hydrated and manage your fluid balance with natural electrolytes as directed in our health brief department.
The beautiful message from our Authentic Lifestyle article, “Shifting the focus away from the outcome and more on our journey is a practice that strengthens the interplay of momentum and inertia,” summarizes the mantra of life.
We have also added a new Beauty section this month focused on natural ways to presever and enhance inner, as well as outer, beauty.
Natural Awakenings of North Jersey is your best all-season health and wellness resource for body, mind and soul—the physical body and inner, spiritual, well-being. For regular updates on natural health and wellness, like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Find even more great information in our online edition at NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.
Enjoy life and stay healthy, stay happy!
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Journaling for Self-Care
A workshop from noon to 2 p.m., August 3, at Rock Collage will provide an overview of how journaling can be used as a healing tool. Participants will explore various aspects of journaling and its benefits, including examples of findings from scientific research studies to illustrate the effectiveness of journaling in promoting mental health and emotional well-being.
They will receive a variety of writing prompts that can be used for different situations in life, encouraging reflection and personal growth. There will also be time to write together, allowing all to engage with the prompts and experience the process of journaling firsthand.
Born from a personal journey of self-discovery, Rock Collage is committed to providing a compassionate and safe space for individuals to find relief from anxiety, stress and the challenges of everyday life. They offer curated crystals and holistic practices to support personal growth and cultivate a community where everyone can be their true self.
Cost is $35 with journal or $25 BYO. Location: 441 B Cedar Ln., Teaneck. For more information, visit RockCollage.com. See ad, next page.
If you’ve tried other approaches to regain your hair and been disappointed with the
30
Bumps, Bottles & Blessings
New Mercy Palisades Church will conduct Bumps, Bottles & Blessings, a supportive community gathering designed for moms, moms-to-be and supportive dads from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., August 9.
It aims to offer practical resources including shopping for new and gently used baby items (free/donations encouraged), connections among parents and informational sessions on topics such as breastfeeding and newborn care.
Wellness Wednesdays and Salty Saturdays at the Salt Cave
The Salt of the Earth, Center for Healing, is hosting Enjoy half-price ($20) salt cave sessions every Wednesday and Saturday in July and August. Owners Susan Toron, DC, AFMCP, and Sheryl Silver, MS, FMCA health coach, say, “Do something great for your health and beat the summer heat with a cool and relaxing session in the salt cave. It’s the next best thing to a day at the beach!”
Admission is free with registration at nmpc.link/bumpsbottlesblessings. location: 240 Grand Ave., Ste. 2, Leonia.
Location: 811 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY. Foe appointments and more information, call 845-290-0678 or visit SaltOfTheEarthcfh.com. See ad, page 5.
Delaying Menopause for Longevity
Menopause, which occurs at the end of a woman’s reproductive years, brings about changes in body composition and heightened health risks, including bone density loss, insulin resistance and an elevated propensity for cardiovascular disease. Notably, women that naturally enter menopause after age 55 have better health outcomes and a longer lifespan than those experiencing earlier menopause. Researchers and industry stakeholders are actively investigating ways to postpone its onset.
Yale University has devised an experimental procedure originally developed to preserve fertility for women undergoing cancer treatments. It involves surgically removing the outermost layer of the ovary, which contains hundreds of thousands of immature eggs, when a woman is in her late 30s. The tissues are cryogenically preserved for reimplantation years later as menopause approaches.
Columbia University is studying how to delay ovarian aging through the administration of low doses of an immunosuppressant drug, thus inhibiting a cellular pathway implicated in the aging process. Gameto, a biotechnology company dedicated to advancing treatment options for women, is conducting animal testing on engineered young ovarian support cells derived from stem cells. Celmatix Therapeutics is working on a drug designed to slow ovarian reserve depletion. Other researchers are advancing senolytic drugs engineered to selectively target and eliminate old, damaged cells.
New Defense Against Superbugs
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that antimicrobial-resistant infections affect more than 2.8 million Americans annually, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. These “superbugs” have developed the ability to resist medicines used to eradicate them, including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics.
In 2019, a systematic review proposed fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a potential strategy for the decolonization of multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDRO), as well as for the prevention of recurring MDRO infections. The researchers suggested that the implantation of good bacteria could restore normal gut microbiota, giving patients the ability to fight off resistant infections without need for other medical interventions.
A small, randomized trial in the United Kingdom recently tested the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of FMT delivered in capsule form. Among the subjects with invasive infections, 20 received FMT capsules, while 21 were part of the placebo group. The findings published in the July issue of the Journal of Infection indicated that encapsulated FMT was safe, well-tolerated and effective in colonizing the gut with healthy bacteria and eliminating superbugs. This study establishes the groundwork for a larger-scale investigation.
Healthy-Aging Properties of Caffeinated Coffee
In June, a large-scale study by Tufts University sought to determine the health benefits of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee with and without the addition of sugar and saturated fat. The results published in The Journal of Nutrition suggest that drinking a lowto-moderate amount of caffeinated coffee daily lowers the risk of all-cause mortality; however, the benefit drops when an overabundance of sugar and saturated fat are added.
The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 1999 and 2018 involving more than 46,000 American adults. Individuals that consumed one to three cups every day were about 15 percent less likely to die in the next nine to 11 years compared to those that did not drink coffee at all. This benefit was negated for those that added more than half a teaspoon of sugar, one tablespoon of half-and-half, or three-and-a-half tablespoons of whole milk. Drinking decaffeinated coffee was not associated with healthy aging.
Sucralose May Increase Appetite
According to research published in Nature Metabolism, the calorie-free sweetener known as sucralose may increase appetite. Sucralose is widely distributed in various food products, including baked goods, beverages, chewing gum and frozen dairy desserts. In a randomized crossover trial involving 75 young adults, participants consumed a beverage containing sucralose, sucrose or water.
The study revealed that the sucralose-containing drink could stimulate appetite by delivering a sweet taste without triggering the body’s natural mechanism for suppressing hunger. While this study is unlikely to significantly alter the availability of sucralose, it aligns with the 2023 World Health Organization’s recommendation that non-sugar sweeteners should not be used for weight management purposes.
Predicting Dementia
Determining how fast a brain ages may help predict and prevent dementia, a condition that is projected to impact approximately 42 percent of Americans aged 55 and older, according to the National Institutes of Health. While genetic analysis at the cellular level offers insights into biological age, its application to brain cells is hindered by the blood-brain barrier, which prevents cell collection.
Researchers from the University of Southern California have devised a non-invasive method that integrates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with artificial intelligence (AI) to assess brain aging. Their findings were published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
The AI database was constructed through an exhaustive analysis of thousands of brain scans from individuals with different brain conditions and varying ages. Subsequently, patient brain scans taken at distinct time intervals are compared to the database to identify brain zones that are exhibiting accelerated aging. The method was tested on more than 100 adults with healthy brains and 140 Alzheimer’s patients. The researchers are optimistic that their approach will not only identify early signs of cognitive decline but also facilitate the prediction of disease progression.
limpido from Getty Images Pro/CanvaPro
Electrolyte Drinks to Boost Hydration
Although commercial electrolyte drinks might seem like a convenient option, many are packed with artificial minerals, colors, preservatives and additional sweeteners. Maintaining optimal health, energy levels and performance throughout the day requires drinking enough water, but that frequently fails to replace lost electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and salt, particularly after physical activity, illness or exposure to heat.
Benefits of Homemade Electrolyte Drinks
We have control over what enters the body. Avoid artificial coloring, preservatives and sweeteners that are commonly found in storebought goods. Citrus fruits, honey and sea salt are among the most common and reason-
ably priced ingredients used in do-it-yourself (DIY) electrolyte drinks. We may adjust the sweetness, flavor and mineral content of our drink, whether an athlete, recuperating from a medical condition or just trying to fight the summer heat. Use reusable jars or bottles for homemade drinks to reduce the amount of single-use plastic bottles.
CLASSIC LEMON ELECTROLYTE DRINK
This timeless drink is ideal for quick hydration after workouts or during hot days. The salt replaces sodium, the lemon restores vitamin C and the honey imparts energy while staying hydrated.
2 cups filtered water
Juice of 1 lemon
⅛ tsp sea salt or Himalayan pink salt
1 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
In a shaker or container, combine all the ingredients.
Stir or shake until the salt and sweetener dissolve.
Serve chilled or over ice.
COCONUT CITRUS HYDRATOR
Perfect for post-exercise recovery. Magnesium and potassium are naturally found in coconut water. Vitamin C and taste are added by orange and lime juices.
1 cup coconut water
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
Juice of ½ lime
Pinch of sea salt
Combine all ingredients in a blender or shaker.
Mix well and chill before drinking.
CHIA LIME ENERGY DRINK
This unique recipe hydrates while providing fiber and energy. Chia seeds help retain water, slowing down the absorption and improving endurance during long workouts.
2 cups water
1 tbsp chia seeds
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbsp honey
Pinch of Himalayan salt
Mix water, lime juice, honey and salt.
Add chia seeds and let sit for 10 to15 minutes to allow them to gel.
Stir and enjoy.
WATERMELON MINT
ELECTROLYTE COOLER
Perfect for summer, this is refreshing and high in potassium. Watermelon is hydrating and loaded with electrolytes. Mint adds cooling benefits.
2 cups fresh watermelon (cubed and deseeded)
1 cup coconut water
Juice of ½ lime
Pinch of sea salt
Few fresh mint leaves
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Strain if desired.
Serve chilled with ice cubes.
BERRY BLAST
ELECTROLYTE INFUSION
A fruity twist for daily hydration. Berries are antioxidant-rich and contribute natural flavor and minerals.
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Is Ketamine-Assisted Physchotherapy (KAP)
for you?
Ketamine is a legal, safe and effective medicine that has a strong antidepressant and mood-enchanting effects. When combined with psychotherapy it can create powerful lasting results
KAP is a holistic treatment that goes beyond simply taking medication. You can get relief from your symptoms for a number of conditions including:
n Depression
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n And much more
2 cups water
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp honey
Pinch of pink salt
Muddle berries in a jar.
Add other ingredients and shake well.
Infuse in the refrigerator for one hour.
For more information, visit NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.
connected back to yourself, whether you’re here for a one-hour service or just to take a quick break and just breathe, after all you deserve that time of tranquility and inner peace!
Baking Soda: The AllPurpose Dynamo
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a versatile and economical household cleaner and personal care product that offers numerous benefits. Its non-toxic and biodegradable properties make it an environmentally friendly choice.
Cleaning and Freshening
• Kitchen Surfaces: Sprinkle on a damp sponge to clean countertops, sinks and greasy stovetops. Adding a few drops of tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint or orange essential oil will enhance the antibacterial properties.
• Pots and Pans: Use as a gentle abrasive to scrub pots and pans—even stainless steel.
• Drains: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of white vinegar down the drain. Allow it to fizz, then rinse with hot water. This is not a substitute for clearing clogs.
• Laundry Booster: Add half a cup to a load of laundry to soften the water, boost detergent effectiveness and neutralize odors. This natural solution is safe to use with baby items.
• Bathroom Fixtures and Surfaces: Mix an equal amount of baking soda and water or vinegar to form a paste for scrubbing sinks, tubs, tile and grout. For a deeper clean, combine with Castile soap instead of water or vinegar.
• Toilets: Use as a powdered cleanser, adding a few drops of a germ-fighting essential oil such as lavender, tea tree or lemon.
• Carpets: Mix a cup of baking soda with a few drops of geranium, lavender or ylang ylang essential oil and sprinkle it evenly over the carpet. After half an hour, vacuum thoroughly.
• Natural Deodorizer: Place an open box in the refrigerator to keep it smelling fresh. Sprinkling baking soda in garbage cans, shoes or gym bags can help eliminate unpleasant odors.
• Produce Cleaner: Mix one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of cold water and soak strawberries or other produce for 12 to15 minutes. Gently rub the fruit or vegetables, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry. This method can reduce dirt, bacteria and some pesticide residues.
• Sterling Silver Polisher: Combine two tablespoons of lemon juice or distilled vin-
egar with two tablespoons of baking soda. With a soft cloth, gently rub the mixture onto sterling silver items and rinse thoroughly. Allow more tarnished items to soak in the mixture for a few minutes before cleaning.
Personal Care
• Teeth Whitening: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the palm of the hand, dip a damp toothbrush into the solution and brush as usual. This method should only be used sparingly, as baking soda can damage tooth enamel.
• Skin Relief: Add half a cup of baking soda to a bath to soothe skin irritation. This solution is beneficial for eczema, poison ivy and dermatitis.
• Hair Cleansing: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a solution. Massage the mixture onto wet hair and rinse thoroughly. This shampoo alternative helps to reduce excess oil and buildup of styling products, restore pH levels, treat dandruff and lighten hair dye. It can also serve as a dry shampoo by simply combing it through dry hair. Long-term or excessive use is not recommended, as baking soda’s abrasive properties can cause split ends, irritate the scalp and strip hair of natural oils.
Prostock-studio/CanvaPro
Why (and when) you need FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
If anyone asked you ,“What is the most important thing in your life?” you might answer family, love, possibly money, but none of those can be fully enjoyed without your most precious assets, health and longevity. Yet, these assets are often overlooked in terms of time, effort, and planning. We may hire an asset manager for long-term financial/retirement planning, but just as important is a long-term “health asset manager. Traditional doctors are chiefly focused on managing or monitoring illness. Problems quickly resolved with medications or surgical corrections are surely important for short-term problems, easy to identify. But most of “optimal health” management lies OUTSIDE the realm of traditional medicine. This is where functional medicine becomes so very important, and in fact, is THE answer.
Functional medicine is specifically termed “functional” because its focus is not one body part, one “disease”; it is instead the optimal function of the individual as a whole, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. If ANY of these elements is out-of-whack, the whole cannot function at its best. The functional physician’s work is to identify anything that is in excess or deficient in any of these areas and restore proper balance to ultimately achieve ideal function and longevity.
Let’s take a look at what is different in the way a functional doctor approaches a patient:
1Functional visits are considerably longer; the doctor listens carefully to an extended history, including al aspects of health and lifestyle of the patient. Anything and everything in your life is of interest, and may
provide clues to the things that need to be addressed.
2If you do not feel right, investigation continues until answers are found. The “answer” is never: “The tests look fine, so there is nothing wrong.” If you do not feel right, something is wrong, and must be pursued and identified.
3The goal is to RESOLVE problems, to promote self-healing, not to use medications for long-term control.
4To do this, investigations seek to uncover the true “root causes” of any symptoms, with treatment geared to “undoing” the cause or at least to support the identified underlying vulnerability. This is especially important in treating chronic conditions.
5When relevant facts become evident from tests, or when the doctor is able to draw certain connections that may be useful, these are all shared with and explained fully to the patient, who, maybe for the first time, finally comes to completely understand his/ her health and how it all fits together and makes sense.
6Treatment OPTIONS are discussed, and the plan for health is a collaborative creation of doctor and patient.
7Solutions are geared to the non-toxic, natural, non-pharmaceutical choices, to avoid some of the undesirable side effects often inherent to pharmaceutical treatments.
8A
formal diagnosis is not critical to creating a health/treatment plan. Treatment is based on history and lab results, and even symptoms without a diagnostic name attached can be very successfully addressed.
9The focus is not only on symptom/condition resolution, but beyond that, on discovering ANY imbalances and addressing them PROACTIVELY, leading to longer, healthier, happier lives.
10Treatment is very much individualized, so there is no “cookie-cutter” approach to wellness,. Every patient is considered to be unique by the functional practitioner.
11Many pieces of one’s chemistry, and their related treatment, go unad-
dressed by traditional medicine. It is unclear why, perhaps because the time it would take to go into such depth would be cost -prohibitive for insurance companies. These many key pieces of health wind up falling into the realm of functional medicine to be addressed. These include: food sensitivities, the gut microbiome, unexplained fatigue, immune system support, full spectrum natural hormone replacement therapy, the thyroid/adrenal axis communication, heavy (toxic) metals and environmental toxins (chemical and mold-related), the role that diet, vitamins and other supplements play in health, the importance of detoxification, and chelation therapy (natural elimination of plaque adherent to the body’s blood vessels) and more. Somehow, all of these quite physical areas of concern typically fall within the province of “functional medicine.”
So, WHEN do you absolutely need a functional medical doctor? When you want to be 100% listened to, when you want a deep new understanding of your health, when you want to resolve problems based on their root causes, when you want to establish a proactive program that will provide longterm health, wellness, and optimal longevity, when you want your doctor to view you as a whole and be your partner in health for life.
Robin Ellen Leder, M.D., has been practicing functional/ holistic medicine since first training by the side of Dr. Robert Atkins (“The Atkins Diet”) after graduating from Brown University and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She has taken countless post-graduate courses in all areas of this field, and has a certificate from a psychoanalytic institute. At her Hackensack office, she has treated thousands of patients successfully, using the innovative tests and approaches that are integral parts of functional medicine (dietary change, supplement protocols, IV therapies, detox treatments, behavioral programs, counseling), addressing such issues as fatigue, the gut microbiome, thyroid/adrenal insufficiency, hormone imbalance, auto-immune disorders, psychological/behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorders. See ad, page 3.
Balance Fluids and Electrolytes Naturally
Every bodily function depends on water for support, from lubricating joints and controlling body temperature to facilitating digestion and supplying nutrients. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is not the only way to stay hydrated; we also need to maintain the body’s natural fluid balance by replenishing lost fluids and supplying vital electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and salt. These minerals are essential to general health because they support the maintenance of pH levels, muscular function and nerve function.
Daily Hydration Tips for Optimal Health
Start the day with water: After hours of sleep,
a glass of water first thing in the morning rehydrates our cells, speeds up metabolism, and helps rid the body of toxins. Carry a water bottle: keep track of how much water we drink by using a reusable container; set goals such as consuming half our body weight in ounces per day. The traditional advice to consume eight glasses per day is only a general guideline. Our weight, level of activity, climate and health condition all affect our real demands. A more individualized objective is drink when we are thirsty and make sure urine is pale yellow, which indicates that we are properly hydrated.
Drink herbal teas and coconut water: plain water is not the only source of hydration.
Herbal teas and coconut water are excellent natural ways to replenish electrolytes that have been depleted. Include water-rich foods: cucumber, watermelon, strawberries, lettuce and other fruits and vegetables contain more than 90 percent water. Include them in meals to encourage natural hydration. Monitor sweat loss: we lose more fluids if exercising or living in a hot climate. Adapt hydration to our lifestyle, particularly after working out. Use natural electrolyte enhancers: for a do-it-yourself electrolyte drink, combine a teaspoon of honey, lemon juice and a bit of sea salt with water.
Eat a Balanced Diet Rich in Electrolytes
Pickles, fermented foods, and natural sea salt all contain sodium. Leafy greens, sweet potatoes, avocados and bananas are good sources of potassium. Black beans, spinach, almonds and pumpkin seeds are good sources of magnesium. Yogurt, cheese, tofu and sardines contain calcium. Incorporating these foods ensures getting enough minerals to keep electrolytes stable.
Avoid excess sugar and caffeine. Fluid loss may result from consuming large amounts of sugar and caffeine. Natural drinks that hydrate and nourish can take the place of sugary sodas and too much coffee. Stay cool and rested. Electrolyte storage can be depleted by excessive heat or sleep deprivation. Cool temperatures, rest and shade all aid in maintaining the proper balance of internal fluids. Practice mindful exercise recovery. After strenuous exercise, replenish electrolytes and fluids with smoothies or snacks such as berry yogurt or banana and peanut butter. Hydrate intelligently when sick. Increase your consumption of fluids and foods high in electrolytes if having fever, diarrhea or vomiting in order to hasten recuperation.
Electrolyte-Rich Hydration Tips
For athletes or active individuals: pre-hydrate with water and potassium-rich snacks such as bananas; during workouts longer than 60 minutes, use natural electrolyte drinks (coconut water with salt and lemon); and after
workouts, eat recovery meals rich in protein, carbs and minerals.
For office workers: set hydration reminders every one-to-two hours; snack on waterdense fruits including oranges or grapes; and keep a carafe of lemon-infused water on a desk for flavor and function.
For seniors: aging reduces thirst perception, so sip water consistently; include hydrating soups and smoothies in meals; and include foods high in calcium and magnesium such as dairy and leafy greens.
For kids: offer fruit-infused water instead of juice; include electrolyte-packed snacks such as yogurt or nuts; and keep hydration fun with colorful bottles or straws.
For pregnant or breastfeeding women: pregnancy increases fluid requirements by 25 percent; drink all day long, not just when thirsty; and add foods high in potassium and magnesium to relieve weariness and cramping.
For more information, visit NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.
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Wellness Cars of the Future
As many vehicles advance toward automation, passengers are presented with a range of new possibilities. Without a human driver, the car’s interior can be transformed to cater to the desires of the traveler with entertainment, media and digital connections seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s ecosystem. Routes can be customized to optimize the journey, ranging from the quickest to the offbeat, with the ability to identify interesting and historically significant landmarks, locations, features and objects along the way.
In the car of the future, integrated artificial intelligence assists in planning scenic detours and dining experiences. Because the vehicle drives itself, enhanced lie-flat seating that incorporates massage and optimal body positioning ensures passengers arrive at their destination feeling well-rested. High-quality audio and video systems, coupled with atomizers that release the occupants’ favorite aromatherapy scent, provide an opportunity to enhance the overall sense of well-being. Biometric sensors monitor heart rate and stress levels, prompting relaxation or meditative activities. Companies such as Cadillac and BMW are already working to make these concepts a reality.
Sustainable Building Materials
Julee Herdt, an award-winning architect, inventor and professor of architecture at the University of Colorado, has developed a range of high-performance, sustainable building materials called BioSIPs. Herdt’s technology enables the construction of structural panels, beams, interior partitions and furniture from paper, agricultural and bovine waste, as well as unwanted biomass such as hemp, wood and aromatic flowers, eliminating the need for synthetic binders or toxic resins. She has also developed insulation made from mushrooms that bonds to the BioSIP products.
These building materials are fully renewable, repulpable and recyclable. In a full-scale test, a solar home constructed with BioSIP
Reusing Forever Chemicals
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as forever chemicals, have been linked to a number of health concerns. In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency labeled a specific PFAS known as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and its salts and isomers as hazardous chemicals.
Scientists from the UK’s University of Oxford and Colorado State University have developed a novel method for both destroying PFAS and reusing some of their elements in new products. Their method, published in the journal Nature, involves reacting PFAS with potassium phosphate salts and then grinding the PFAS and salts together using ball bearings to break the carbon-fluorine bonds. This process facilitates the reuse of the fluorine content in the manufacture of medicines and other products.
products outperformed standard and sustainably designed solar homes in terms of energy efficiency, environmental standards and occupant comfort.
ronstik from Getty Images/ CanvaPro
Aflo Images from Aflo/CanvaPro frender from Getty Images
Beauty and Breathwork for Harmonious Living
In addition to calming the mind, breathwork can revitalize the skin, improve our mood and create inner peace when paired with mindfulness and beauty techniques. By promoting harmonious living, this all-encompassing strategy enables people to navigate life with poise, vitality and self-awareness.
Morning Rituals
Instead of rushing through a skin care routine, take time to feel the water, smell the cleanser and give thanks to our skin. This transforms a basic routine into a mindful ritual.
Write down three things we are grateful for each morning. Gratitude aligns with positivity and keeps the mind centered throughout the day.
Begin with five to 10 minutes of simple box breathing—inhale for four seconds, hold for four , exhale for four , and hold for four. Repeat this five to 10 times tobalances the nervous system and primes the body for the day ahead.
Gua sha and facial cupping stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, which reduces puffiness and boosts skin tone. Pair them with deep breathing to make the experience meditative.
Sip warm teas like chamomile, rose or tulsi throughout the day. Hydration is a fundamental element of skin health and inner balance.
Choose skincare and cosmetics with minimal, non-toxic ingredients. Using ethical products aligns external routines with internal values.
Midday Recalibration Practices
Set a timer to pause every two to three hours and take five deep belly breaths.
Take a five-minute walk and pay attention to each step, the sensation of the air and the rhythm of our breath.
Say kind things to ourself. Positive self-talk enhances confidence and reduces stressinduced aging.
Evening Wind-Down for Inner and Outer Glow
Take time to enjoy every step as we apply nightly cosmetics. Include statements such as, ,”I respect my skin and my journey,” or, “I am deserving of care.”
Try alternate nostril breathing (nadi shodhana) to calm the mind and balance energy channels before sleep.
Shut off screens at least 30 minutes before bed. This helps regulate melatonin and gives the skin and mind a chance to truly rest.
Box Breathing for Beginners
Inhale through the nose for four seconds. Hold the breath for four seconds. Exhale through the mouth for four seconds. Hold for four seconds. Repeat this for five to 10 rounds. This is great for clarity, focus and relaxation.
Diaphragmatic Belly Breathing
Sit or lie down with one hand on the belly and one on the chest. Inhale deeply through the nose so that the belly expands (not the chest). Exhale slowly through the mouth. Do this for five minutes in the morning and evening to lower stress and promote emotional balance.
4-7-8 Breathing for Anxiety and Sleep
Inhale for four seconds. Hold for seven seconds. Exhale slowly for eight seconds/ This pattern triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, ideal before bed or during anxiety.
Energizing Breath (Kapalabhati)
Sit upright and inhale naturally. Then exhale rapidly and forcefully through the nose while contracting the belly. Perform short bursts (about one per second) for 20 to 30 repetitions. Follow with deep breathing and stillness. This cleanses energy, boosts circulation and improves skin oxygenation.
For more information, visit NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.
Tea-Infused Beauty for Skin and Soul
Green, black, white and herbal teas are brimming with compounds that hydrate, soothe, detoxify, and rejuvenate the skin naturally. From calming irritated skin to reversing the effects of aging, tea-infused beauty remedies offer a holistic approach to wellness and radiance.
Green Tea, an antioxidant powerhouse, is loaded with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage and slows signs of aging. It also reduces sebum production, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. Other benefits include reducing inflammation and redness, fighting acnecausing bacteria, improving skin elasticity and protecting against ultraviolet (UV) damage.
White Tea, a gentle youth preserver, is the least processed, retaining high levels of antioxidants. It helps to neutralize the skin-damaging effects of free radicals and supports collagen and elastin production. It also Protects collagen and prevents wrinkles
• Calms sensitive skin
• Improves skin texture
Chamomile Tea, the soothing elixir, is known for its calming effects on both the mind and skin. Ideal for sensitive or irritated skin, it Reduces puffiness and dark circles
• Calms eczema and rosacea
• Soothes sunburn and redness
Rooibos Tea, an anti-aging superfood, also
known as red tea, is rich in alpha hydroxy acid and zinc. It rejuvenates tired skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles, Helps treat acne and eczema, improves skin tone and slows down aging.
Black Tea is high in caffeine and tannins, which tighten pores, reduce puffiness, and improve circulation. It acts as a natural astringent. reduces puffiness around eyes, and enhances skin clarity and tone.
Infusing tea into skincare does not require expensive products. Create natural skin care with tea at home using simple ingredients. Here are some tried-and-true tea-infused beauty remedies.
GREEN TEA FACE TONER
This toner tightens pores and balances the
pH of the skin.
1 cup brewed green tea (cooled)
1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 drops of tea tree oil (optional for acneprone skin)
Combine everything and keep it in a spray bottle. After cleansing, use in the morning and at night.
CHAMOMILE TEA EYE COMPRESS
This remedy reduces puffiness and soothes tired eyes.
2 chamomile tea bags
Hot water
Steep the tea bags in hot water, let them cool slightly, and place them on your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes. This remedy reduces puffiness and soothes tired eyes.
ROOIBOS AND HONEY FACE
MASK
This mask detoxifies and nourishes dull skin.
2 Tbsp brewed rooibos tea
1 Tbsp raw honey
1 tsp bentonite clay
Mix ingredients to form a paste. Apply to face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
WHITE TEA STEAM FACIAL
1 quart boiling water
2 white tea bags
A few fresh mint leaves (optional)
Pour hot water into a bowl and add tea and mint. Cover your head with a towel and place your face over the steam. To open pores and revitalize skin, steam for five to 10 minutes.
BLACK TEA ICE CUBES
Gently rub black tea ice cubes over the face to depuff and tone the skin. This remedy is perfect in the morning to awaken tired skin.
Brew strong black tea.
Pour into ice cube trays and freeze.
For more information, visit NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com.
You Are Unlimited
by Dr. Anne Deatly
You are truly unlimited. You have infinite potential. In fact, you are the universe. What quantum physics is discovering is the quantum field or consciousness, the energy field of the universe, flows through each of us all day every day. Everything in the Universe happens through energy flow and transmission. We’re energy beings living in an energetic universe and everything happens through energy flow and vibrational frequency. This universal energy--the quantum field—is what we are walking around in. Most of us can’t see it or feel it so we believe there is nothing there. But the truth is the nothing really is everything. This quantum field is a sentient, dynamic, energy that is consciousness. It is actually a thinking mind—I’ll call it the Divine Mind or Divine Intelligence.
We can describe the quantum reality as the vastness of the universe. This vastness is you because you are the universe. That new perspective opens the understanding of the Zero Point Field or the point of singularity. All the wisdom and knowledge that ever was or will be is already available to us—it surrounds us and flows through us. It is us. All we must do is connect to it and allow that universal energy to flow through us.
Our energy bodies interact with this universal consciousness or Divine Intelligence. If we are open to the flow of the quantum field through us, we have easy access to Divine Intelligence. It flows through us. It is also flowing through others, and it flows through the universe—that is how we are One.
Another way to understand this concept is that our physical bodies are conduits of the quantum field to connect the spiritual and physical realms together. Our physicality helps direct the spiritual realm energies
to the physical realm, especially the Earth’s energies.
But how do we connect to the quantum field energy flowing through us? One way is to breathe deeply into our bodies. The breath is the inflowing spirit. If we breathe deeply enough from the Earth or below our feet, then we can feel it as it travels up into our physical bodies. We can hold the breath in our pelvic area on the inhale to physically feel it, then we can exhale slowly up to our hearts, throats and brain and out the top of our crowns. Doing this type of breathing process repetitively carves an energetic pathway in our bodies to embody consciousness. We have a felt sense of it.
Anything we do consciously and intentionally makes a big difference in how we connect to who we really are and live as our True Self. Breathing consciously to embody the quantum reality helps us become attuned to living as our Souls intended.
If you are interested in spirituality and want to connect with the energy flowing through you or if you want to evolve in this lifetime, then contact me at anne.deatly@gmail.com or 201-925-1046. Visit DrAnneDeatly.com. See ad, page 15.
The Authentic Lifestyle
Learning To Realign With Our True Selves
by Carrie Jackson
Harmony in our daily routine provides a sustainable and fulfilling rhythm. A life in balance accommodates ambition and rest, effort and ease, honoring our individual energy and purpose. Instead of pursuing future goals and equating success with monetary gain or accomplishments, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and align our choices with personal values. By shifting from a rigid, externally oriented idea of success to a more holistic, harmoniously driven approach, we can experience greater joy, purpose and authenticity.
Connecting to the Web of Life
In 2022, Yoli Maya Yeh, a yoga teacher, shiatsu therapist and educator whose work revolves around Indigenous preservation, healing arts and social justice, embarked on an adventure of global nomadism and worldschooling her now 13-year-old child. Their journeys have taken them to many countries, including Morocco, Italy, Malta and Senegal. Yeh asserts that her lifestyle was not the result of a single decision but rather the culmination of focus, willpower and the strength of those that have walked before her.
“While entrepreneurship flows through my veins, without a clear vision, a sense of purpose and a deep well of confidence, I would not be able to be this assertive and daring in my approach to how I want to fulfill my dreams. I could decide to play small and feel contracted in my body, but that was not the intuitive guidance I have come to trust,” Yeh explains. “My vision is a life where I can be in spaces of belonging, collaborating and problem solving, dreaming and world-building our collective liberated future. In the present moment, I explore my inborn gifts and hone them to be of maximum service.”
She maintains that a path of development cannot be solely cerebral, sharing, “A traveling lifestyle provides me with a high level of changefulness in which I can cultivate growth and adaptation through constant new experiences that challenge me to navigate unknowns. We must bring the transformative process into the body through active restoration tools and meaningful engagement with self.”
Harmony and resistance are felt in the body, and tapping into those signals enables us to deeply connect with our true selves. As Yeh puts it, “Perpetual analysis in the mind disconnects us from the experience of resonance, thus distancing us from actual alignment. A daily centering practice that draws on a collage of breathwork, mantra and meditative techniques allows us to hone our connection to the sensations in the body.”
As a respite from the demands of modern society, Yeh turns to yoga nidra, a yogic sleep meditation originating in South Asia, as well as other Indigenous wisdom traditions. “Living in the modern era presents us with contradictory factors,” she says. “We have more automation and digital support, while at the same time, we are cut off from our ancestral rejuvenation practices such as sacred dreaming, ritual and community celebration.”
Another valuable practice is rematriation, or “returning to the Sacred Mother”, which emphasizes the restoration of Indigenous knowledge and connection. “In this practice, we lay our tired bones down on the earth to rest and revive the ancestral wisdom that lives within. Like so many meditative and trance practices, one explores liminal states of consciousness where the mind expands well beyond the confines of the awake, thinking mind and amplifies creativity and a sense of freedom,” Yeh explains. “To experience fulfillment in life, we need a recipe that combines resonance of expansion and a sense of belonging. Success is the embodied expression of this connection to self and collective at the same time.”
Fulfilling Our Journey
Brianna Wiest is the bestselling author of numerous books, including 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think, The Pivot Year and The Mountain Is You. Her personal reflections are derived from years of self-inquiry and meditation practice, and her writing emphasizes emotional intelligence and self-awareness as keys to meaningful success.
She notes that the conventional standard of success varies depending on an individual’s upbringing, network and environment. “There are ways in which society measures and corroborates a concept of success, and many people feel beholden to this definition. But this can become more defeating than motivating, as the idea of success is often divorced from the essence of what it should actually mean,” she says. “Success is effectiveness, but the question becomes: Effectiveness at what? Fulfillment is when we’re effective at something meaningful. It’s an internal gauge, rather than an external measure. Fulfillment is when we feel deep peace and inner satisfaction, regardless of how others may perceive our endeavors or pursuits.”
Shifting the focus away from the outcome, and more on our journey, is a practice that strengthens within the interplay of momentum and inertia. Wiest states, “The more we acknowledge and feel good about the progress we’re making, the more inclined we feel to make more of it. Often, we use the inverse on ourselves: We try to focus on the ways in which we’re falling behind (or imagine that we are) so as to motivate ourselves to move forward. This usually just compounds the mindset that we are incapable, and it’s not worth the effort. The best way to become more of anything is first to find evidence of the ways in which you already are that thing.”
Wiest recommends striking a balance between ambition and rest by fine-tuning intuition and strengthening the ability to respond effectively. “There’s no right way to divide up your time, and everyone’s needs differ,” she points out. “Rather than waiting until you’re at the point of depletion to think about taking care of yourself, sit honestly with the question of where you’d like your bandwidth to expand and how your body and mind signal that it’s time to decompress. In the same way that you have to rest a muscle after exercising it for it to strengthen, repair and grow, the rest of the body works similarly. It’s part of the process, not antithetical to it.”
Reflective practices such as meditation and journaling can enable us to be more mindful and make decisions that align with our values, instead of acting impulsively. Wiest suggests looking at life from the perspective of our 90-year-old self and considering what we would have done differently. “Mindfulness is a way of both stilling the waters of the mind and calming the inner chaos, while at the same time, giving us the chance to pause between having a thought and a feeling and then immediately responding to it,” she says. “It’s that gap of time where we get to consciously decide how we will react that ultimately creates our personal freedom.”
Living Our Soul’s Purpose
Author, podcaster and co-founder of the Dharma Coaching Institute, Sahara Rose Ketabi helps people discover their soul’s pur-
Frizi from Getty Images/CanvaPro
pose. “Your dharma is the big reason why you are here,” she explains. “It’s your sacred mission, your truth and the sacred intersection of your joy and the world’s needs. When you’re aligned with your dharma, life begins to feel like a divine dance—yes, with challenges, but also with deep meaning. It’s not about being the best at something; it’s about being you, fully and unapologetically.”
Ketabi contends that the pursuit of success alone does not yield happiness; it is happiness that brings true success. “Success isn’t just about ticking boxes or climbing ladders. It’s about alignment,” she clarifies. “We can shift this mindset by tuning into our bodies, emotions and passions, asking, ‘Does this feel expansive? Does this nourish my soul?’ When your success is in service of your dharma, it feels sustainable, fulfilling and soul-led.”
Ketabi incorporates Ayurvedic wisdom into her teachings to help people tune into their own energy. “Ayurveda is the science of life, and your dharma is the reason you’re alive. They’re inherently connected. By understanding your dosha—vata, pitta or kapha—you understand your strengths, challenges and soul gifts,” she explains. “It’s not just about food or herbs; it’s about rhythm. If you’re a fiery pitta trying to
force your purpose, you may burn out. A dreamy vata may need structure to bring ideas through. Ayurveda teaches you how to work with your energy, not against it, so your dharma can blossom naturally.”
Living as your most authentic self ultimately has a butterfly effect for making positive changes in the world. “When one person lives in their dharma, it shifts the field for everyone around them. It creates a ripple of remembrance,” says Ketabi. “I believe that your dharma is not just about you, but it’s about the impact you create through be-
ing you. It is not selfish to follow your joy; it’s necessary. When you do what you love, you become magnetic. You inspire others to stop settling, to heal and to rise. You become the permission slip they didn’t know they needed. Living your dharma is the highest form of spiritual activism.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Mindful Workouts
Introducing Mental Wellness Modalities at the Gym
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
Mental wellness is no longer considered a separate pillar of health; it is becoming deeply integrated into physical fitness routines across the country. As the discourse surrounding emotional and psychological well-being becomes more open and less stigmatized, there is a shift in how people approach exercise. Not only is fitness focused on building muscle and burning calories, but increasingly it is about fostering resilience, restoring balance and supporting the mind as well as the body.
This integration of mental wellness emphasizes practices such as breathwork, guided meditation, intentional recovery and nervous system regulation as core components of a comprehensive fitness regimen. For healthconscious individuals seeking vitality and
longevity, this is a natural evolution of holistic living.
“The physical body reflects what is mindfully and energetically present,” shares Dawn Coleman, a certified personal trainer and life transformation coach based in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. “Honoring the body’s physical well-being requires that we consider energetic pathways that allow the nurturing of the soul and mind, which, in turn, promotes physical fitness.”
Mind-Body Integration
Today’s approach goes beyond the endorphin rush of a workout. Wellness buffs are looking for fitness environments and tools that help calm the mind, process emotions and foster inner strength. Gyms and studios are
responding by incorporating stress-relieving modalities into their offerings. It is not uncommon to find yoga classes ending with a 10-minute guided meditation or strength sessions that begin with focused breathwork. Even high-performance athletes are embracing these new tools, recognizing that mental clarity and nervous system regulation enhance both performance and recovery.
• Breathwork: According to Coleman, conscious breathing exercises help regulate the nervous system and lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A 2023 meta-analysis published in the journal Nature found that breathwork may be effective for improving stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Techniques like box breathing, diaphragmatic breathing or alternate nostril breathing can be layered into warm-ups, cool-downs or standalone sessions.
• Meditation and Visualization: Whether it’s a guided meditation before sleep or a visualization practice to prepare for a race, meditation trains the brain for focus, reduces anxiety and enhances emotional resilience. Research published in Frontiers in Psychology affirms that tailored visualization improves athletic performance and establishes the mental toughness needed to achieve both long-term and short-term goals.
• Recovery Rituals: Recuperation is a vital part of training. Therapies involving infrared saunas, float tanks, cryotherapy and contrast baths support muscle repair while simultaneously calming the nervous system and promoting mental relaxation. A 2023 randomized crossover study of 20 basketball players, published in Biology of Sport, reported improvements in muscle recovery and reduced soreness when exercise was followed by an infrared sauna session. A peer-reviewed article in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise reported that exercisers that followed highintensity interval training with a one-hour
floatation session experienced enhanced recovery from sore muscles and improved performance readiness.
• Tai Chi and Qigong: These mindful movement disciplines emphasize intention, awareness and breath, creating space for physical vitality and mental clarity.
Reimagining the Gym
The design of fitness spaces is evolving toward environments that promote wholeness and healing. Lighting and music are intentionally curated to create inviting atmospheres, while recovery lounges are incorporated for meditation or breathwork practices. This evolution has been particularly meaningful for women experiencing burnout, hormonal fluctuations or chronic stress.
Rather than pushing through fatigue or anxiety, individuals are adopting restorative practices that align with their physical needs. Many gyms, as well as yoga and Pilates studios, are offering supplemental therapies to support mental and physical fitness objectives. Sauna, red light and cold plunge therapies have become more accessible than ever.
Enduring Wellness
Mental wellness integration is more than a trend; it is a redefinition of what it means to be fit, challenging the old “no pain, no gain” model and replacing it with a deeper, more sustainable approach to health.
This shift is being embraced not only because it feels good in the moment, but also because it supports long-term well-being. People are learning to treat their minds with the same care and intention as their muscles. By doing so, they are redefining strength, not as something visible, but as something profoundly felt—steady breathing, calm thoughts, inner peace. In a fast-paced world that often demands more and more, mental wellness integration offers a path toward greater eqilibrium, presence and joy throughout the journey.
Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.
Listening to Kids Without Judgment
Nurturing Habits of a Harmonious Family
by Christina Connors
In an era when children are growing up in digital landscapes unfamiliar to many parents, establishing connections can feel like navigating a maze. But harmonious living is attainable through small, intentional moments that cultivate trust and emotional safety. Rather than solely emphasizing control or screen-time restrictions, deeper bonds can be created by tuning in with curiosity, presence and empathy. Here are some strategies that parents and caregivers can employ to bridge the gap and foster connection.
Validating Emotions
“For decades—perhaps centuries—children
have received consistent messaging about emotions: control them, contain them and, whenever possible, conceal them. This approach wasn’t necessarily malicious; it reflected cultural values that prioritized stoicism and social harmony. The ‘good child’ was often the quiet child, the composed child, the one who didn’t ‘make a scene’,” says Lee Sowles, founder and CEO of Kind Mind, a program that teaches adults and children how to co-regulate, be kind and feel ready to learn. “When we support our kids’ emotions, we teach them that all feelings are valid—even the difficult ones—and then we can empower them with the skills they need to process emotions in healthy
ways. This fosters trust, emotional resilience and a more harmonious home environment where everyone feels seen and safe, which is crucial because children thrive when they feel understood and connected.”
Remaining Calm and Present
To communicate effectively and foster positive exchanges with our children, it is critical to keep emotions in check. According to Janet Philbin, a clinical social worker, certified conscious parent and life coach, as well as the author of Show Up for Yourself: A Guide to Inner Awareness and Growth, if a child comes to us upset, crying, whining or demanding, the best response is to remain level-headed and attentive.
“Pausing and tuning in allows us to come into harmony because we are moving from a sympathetic state of fight/flight to a state of calm and presence,” she says. “We are regulated, and our child can come to us with their emotions, feeling safe. We do not react; instead, we become grounded and present, allowing us to meet our child where they are and tune in to what they need, which is underneath the behavior we’re seeing. This is how harmonious relationships are created, because we have regulated our nervous system, and our child can regulate theirs.”
Keeping a Shared Journal
An effective method to foster mutual trust and respect with a child is with a shared journal in which parents and kids are able to communicate with each other through the written word. “Using the journal creates space to respond from a place of our loving hearts without judgment and putting aside the need to fix,” explains Philbin. “Our children will feel heard and safe, ultimately creating harmony in the relationship.”
Philbin shares how her family makes use of a shared journal, noting, “Our kids write to us about what they are struggling with and leave the journal for us in a safe space. When we find the journal, we take our time to respond to our child. In that response, we can let them know we hear them, that their feel-
ings matter and that their struggle is real. We stay away from solving the problem, and instead just let them know that we are supporting them to work it through. Then we hand the child back the journal, and this process continues.”
Establishing Rituals for Connection
Building a robust connection with a child doesn’t require grand gestures. Instead, it is about creating consistent, small moments that build an emotional rhythm. Here are a few suggestions:
• Make it a habit to take screen-free walks after dinner.
• Regularly journal about a common prompt—such as recounting a memorable or unexpected event—and then read the journal entries out loud to each other.
• Find opportunities to share common interests and spend quality time together, perhaps by playing the child’s favorite board game or video game.
Living harmoniously, particularly in parenting, is not solely about achieving balance, but also about cultivating presence. When we approach our children with empathy, curiosity and intention, we do not merely hear
them; we genuinely see them. In this act of seeing, connection begins.
Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
The Harmonious Home
Décor Strategies That Promote Well-Being
by Megy Karydes
The spaces we call home hold untapped potential to become powerful allies in our pursuit of wellness and tranquility. Creating a truly restorative environment goes beyond incorporating organic cotton throws and essential oil diffusers. The secret lies in recognizing that homes are living entities rather than mechanical constructs for shelter.
Nature’s Blueprint
The human eye instinctively gravitates toward the soft curves and organic forms found in natural settings. Social psychologist Erich Fromm coined the term biophilia to describe an intrinsic affinity between living things. In architecture, biophilic design aims to create living spaces that foster well-being through a connection with nature.
One way to mimic nature indoors is through
the use of curves and organic shapes, according to Lauren Riddei, a wellness interior designer and founder of Haus Holistics, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For instance, consider replacing angular coffee tables with round styles or swapping rectangular mirrors for curved versions.
Riddei recommends starting with one curved element at a time, making it “a goal that any new piece of art, furniture or accessory brought into the space has curves in them.” The recent trend toward rounded furniture reflects our innate craving for spaces where energy flows freely, unobstructed by sharp corners where it tends to get stuck.
Color psychology extends this natural approach beyond shapes. Rather than following fads, hues should be chosen based on current life needs, according to Lisa Morton, a ho-
listic interior designer and founder of Pure Living With Lisa Morton. “Maybe the client doesn’t need calm. Maybe they’re in a rut and need revitalization, in which case they need oranges, yellows and pinks,” she advises, adding that if the primary objective is to create a soothing environment, blues, greens and creams should be considered.
Morton also recommends that homeowners follow the seasonal rhythms as a way to “remind our body of being outdoors even when we can’t be.” For example, during the fall and winter months she incorporates chunky rugs and throws crafted from natural fibers. As she explains, such textures resonate with the earth element of feng shui—the ancient Chinese practice of creating harmonious living spaces—thereby creating a sense of stability and grounding.
Intentional Energy Flow
The Bagua Map, a feng shui blueprint for energy centers, charts a path for establishing harmony throughout the home. “The centermost area of your home connects to every other important energy center,” Morton asserts. “By lifting the energy of your center area, it affects every other part of your home.”
This intentional care radiates outward. Identifying the home’s center point (imagine a bird’s-eye view of the floor plan) and showering it with attention involves replacing burned-out bulbs, thoroughly vacuuming, fluffing pillows and adding thriving plants or fresh flowers. “If your whole home feels stuck and stagnant, and you do work on this living
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area, it’s going to radiate out,” she remarks.
According to Morton, the front door deserves equal attention, because in feng shui, it is associated with new opportunities and fresh energy. “A lot of people don’t use their front door. They come and go through the garage,” she observes, recommending that people find ways to regularly use the front door—whether walking the dog or taking morning strolls—as a way to invite new, restorative energy into the home. Shaking out welcome mats, ensuring the smooth functioning of locks and adding seasonal wreaths all contribute to this goal.
Licensed therapist turned interior designer and author of Home Therapy Anita Yokota takes this intentional approach further with her concept of “core desire”. Rather than making design decisions first and seeing how they make inhabitants feel, she flips the process by asking, “How do you want to feel and be in this space? What relationships do you want to thrive here?” This therapeutic approach ensures that every choice serves deeper needs, rather than following external trends.
Creating Sensory Sanctuaries
Another overlooked aspect of holistic home design is sound. While homeowners may obsess over visual elements, they often ignore how acoustic pollution affects well-being. “We are sensitive to loud noises and vibrations,” Riddei says. “We need an environment that won’t keep us on edge when we come home from a long day.” Her unconventional solution involves wind chimes tuned to the healing frequencies of 432 or 528 Hertz (Hz), which she asserts are associated with peace and love. This is particularly helpful for people that live on a noisy road.
Research published in the journal Health found that music tuned to the frequency of 528 Hz significantly reduced stress after only five minutes of listening. For those sensitive to auditory stimulation, Yokota suggests implementing additional insulation or soundabsorbing wall panels.
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
calendar of events
Email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com for guidelines and to submit entries
Sunday
Ramsey Farmers Market–9 am - 2 pm. Award winning non-profit Ramsey Farmers Market features 50 local vendors, music craft, chef demos and special fun events for whole family. For more information: http://ramseyfarmersmarket.org/ Location: Erie Plaza Station, 2 West Main St, Ramsey.
Thursday
Weekly Neuro-Transformational Guided Meditation Circle–10:30-11:30am, Online. Release your stress and relax with Lois KramerPerez. Using visualizations along with guided clearing meditations, clear accumulated stress therefore clearing the self. Register by 9am to receive the Zoom link from Lois emailed at 10am. Details: Lois@loiskramererez.com. 201-906-5767. Register: LoisKramerPerez.com/My-Events/.
Sunday, August 3
Journaling for Self Care – 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. This two-hour workshop provides an overview of how journaling can be utilized as a healing tool. Join us for this enriching experience that aims to enhance your understanding of journaling as a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery Register or visit website at rockcollage.com/events. Location: Rock Collage, 441 B Cedar Ln, Teaneck, NJ.
Wednesday, August 6
Friends and Family CPR–7:30pm - 9:30pm. This program was developed to instruct parents, grandparents, babysitters, and nursery school personnel on prompt care for a choking infant or child, along with CPR skills. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth.org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Saturday, August 9
Hermitage Museum Outdoor Craft Show–10:00 am – 4:00 pm. This outdoor craft show will be set up on the tree shaded grounds of this historic site. 75 exhibitors with arts, crafts and photography will be participating. Some of the items that will be showcased are folk and abstract art, apparel, charcuterie boards, turned wood pens and bowls, fiber, jewelry, totes, wind chimes, soaps, candles, pillows, florals, origami and more. Visit Website & Register at https://pjspromotions.com/. Location: The Hermitage, 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ.
Sunday, August 10
Reiki Guided Meditation & Chakra Balancing with Jen—9:00am - 10:00am. Led by Jen Seaman, a Reiki Master and Light Healer through guided visualization and the healing power of Reiki, you’ll clear away the stresses of the past week, restore your inner balance, and set powerful intentions for the new week. Visit Website & Register at www. loopwithus.com. Location: Loopwell, 80 Maple Avenue, Montclair, NJ.
Monday, August 11
Meditation and Yoga for Cancer–10:00am11:00am. Learn guided meditation, therapeutic yoga, and breath work to relax, refocus, and reconnect in a supportive environment. Participants will be able to interact with each other to create a sense of community. All levels welcomed. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth.org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Tuesday, August 12
Mantra Meditation & Gong Bath with Chris–7:00pm - 9:00pm. Step into a realm of deep vibrational healing in this immersive workshop, where ancient practices and powerful sound therapy unite. Experience the sacred synergy of mantra (sacred sound), mudra (energetic gestures), and the transformative frequencies of gongs and singing bowls. Visit Website & Register at www.loopwithus.com. Location: Loopwell, 80 Maple Avenue, Montclair, NJ.
Wednesday, August 13
Meditation and Movement Using a Chair–10:00am - 11:00am. Learn ways to calm your mind and body through mindful meditation, chair stretching/yoga, guided imagery, and breathing techniques. You will relax, focus, and reconnect in the privacy of your own space. Perfect for all levels. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth.org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Thursday, August 14
Heart Smart Lunch Series (In-Person)–12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. Join us and welcoming and informative program designed to empower individuals with knowledge and tools to lead heart-healthy lives. Visit Website at valleyhealth.com/events. Location: Valley Health System - Ridgewood Campus, 223 North Van Dien Ave, Board Room, Ridgewood, NJ.
Saturday, August 16
Newborn Take Care of Yourself & Your Baby– 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. This one-session class details all the basics of newborn care for expectant/adoptive parents. Topics will include bathing, bath products, diapering, cord care, temperature taking, sleep patterns as well as your postpartum care/topics. Visit Website at valleyhealth.com/events. Location: Valley Health System, 140 E. Ridgewood Ave, Suite 501N, Paramus, NJ.
Sunday, August 17
Yoga and Sound Bath Meditation – 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. Special Mothers Flow Crystal Singing Bowl play frequencies that can help heal your DNA, realign your chakras and release energetic blockages lingering within your body. Register or visit website at rockcollage.com/events. Location: Rock Collage,
Overpeck Park Ridgefield Park, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660, USA.
Monday, August 18
Meditation and Yoga for Cancer–10:00am11:00am. Learn guided meditation, therapeutic yoga, and breath work to relax, refocus, and reconnect in a supportive environment. Participants will be able to interact with each other to create a sense of community. All levels welcomed. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth.org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Tuesday, August 19
Caregivers Support Group–4:00 pm - 5:30 pm. Join us for support group sessions to assist those caring for a loved one. Visit Website at valleyhealth.com/events. Location: The Valley Center for Health and Wellness, 1400 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah, NJ.
Wednesday, August 20
Breathwork Experience with Julie & Billy–7:00pm - 8:00pm. Breathwork is a profound healing tool. It is for those interested in feeling more connected to their truth, vitality, and wellness. Visit Website & Register at www.loopwithus.com. Location: Loopwell, 80 Maple Avenue, Montclair, NJ.
Thursday, August 21
Open Air Sound Bath Experience – 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Join us for an outdoor Sound Bath Session with Master Sound Healers, Donna Jean Neill and Deblynn Manfredonio. Please bring yoga mats or a zero gravity chair, blanket, pillow, bug spray. Advanced registration and payment of $40.00 is required. Contact D.J. Neill at donnajeanneill@gmail.com to register and payment options. Location: Camp Hope Large Pavilion 1792 Union Valley Road West Milford, NJ.
Sunday, Aug 24
Fall Fest Craft & Gift Show–10:00 am – 5:00 pm. 125 exhibitors from three states will be participating in this much awaited event. Just some of the items to be seen are spring florals, fiber, birdhouses, apparel, porch signs, garden items, pottery, photography, art, hand crafted jewelry, stained glass, bonsai,
CALENDAR
Check out the latest events at NANorthNJ.com/calendar
totes, charcuterie boards & much more. Visit Website & Register at https://pjspromotions. com/. Location: Veteran’s Memorial Park, 50 Madison Ave, Westwood, NJ.
Tuesday, August 26
Steady on Your Feet-Falls Prevention–3:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Join Valley Physical Therapists as they share knowledge and practical skills to help you understand fall prevention and provide information on how to keep you balanced and safe. Visit Website at valleyhealth. com/events. Location: Valley Health System, 140 E. Ridgewood Ave, Suite 501N, Paramus, NJ.
Wednesday, Aug 27
Breathwork Experience with Julie & Billy–7:00pm - 8:00pm. Breathwork is a profound healing tool. It is for those interested in feeling more connected to their truth, vitality, and wellness. Visit Website & Register at www.loopwithus.com. Location: Loopwell, 80 Maple Avenue, Montclair, NJ.
Tuesday, September 2
Prenatal Meditation and Yoga (6-Week Series)–7:00pm – 8:00pm. Learn how to focus on breath and posture and connect to yourself and your baby to facilitate and
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prepare for labor and delivery. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth. org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Wednesday, September 3
Yoga for Addiction Recovery and Overcoming Eating Disorders–11:00am – 12:00pm. The practice can stabilize your mood, help you relax and manage anxiety, allow you to reconnect with your body, increase self-control and coping skills, explore self-compassion and acceptance, and even improve insomnia. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth.org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
Tuesday, September 9
Pack It Up: Learn to Live a Smoke-Free Life (4-Week Series)–5:50pm – 6:50pm. Our group smoking cessation program will teach you strategies to commit to quitting smoking over the course of four weeks. Visit Website & Register at www.englewoodhealth. org. Location: The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, 350 Engle Street Berrie Center, 5th Floor, Englewood, NJ.
To find out how you can be included in Business Directory, email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNNJ.com
Do you want to resolve your mental health issues on a deeper level rather than just having symptom relief? Are you curious what answers your subconscious mind holds? Ketamine provides an opportunity to go beyond our defenses and discover new inner tools to address what has been out of alignment. Ketamine is a legal, safe and effective medicine that has a strong antidepressant and moodenchanting effects. It can be taken with SSRIs and when combined with psychotherapy can create powerful lasting results. Experience Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) with Svetlana Kasyan! AVAILABLE SERVICES: Traditional Psychotherapy for individuals and couples, KAP and Psychedelic Integration. See ad, page 11.
Harmony makes small things grow, lack of it makes great things decay.
It's time to protect your family from 5G, geopathic stress, negative vortexes, Hartman and Curry lines. Maybe there is a personal zone having a negative effect on someone in your household? Dowsing can locate, clear, and block these negative vibrations from entering your home. Protect yourself and your home today.
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.
YVONNE MARIA SCHAEFER
Transcendental-readings.com
Yvonne Maria Schaefer is based in Frankfurt and New York and loves to travel the world. In her travels, she studies cultures and the connections that unite us, while exploring physic theories that link the spiritual and material worlds. Yvonne does readings for private clients and companies. From an early age, Yvonne has been very intuitive, able to see where a person is in their life and what they need to overcome, as well as identifying opportunities that lie ahead. Every time she does a workshop or a reading, she observes the positive change it can bring about, the transformation, and closure. She has studied quantum healing and various Eastern and Western approaches to wellness, participating in many seminars, lectures, and courses. As a public speaker, Yvonne specializes in the power of intention, and the human consciousness, how it is shaped by our thoughts and experiences in the physical world, as well as the consciousness beyond that connects us to universal truths.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
ROBIN ELLEN LEDER, M.D.
A Better Alternative Medical Center Hackensack, NJ 201-525-1155 • DrRobinLeder.com
Since initially working with Dr. Robert Atkins, Dr Leder has successfully delivered a full range of integrative/alternative medical care to thousands of tri-state residents of all ages. Every patient is provided a personalized care. Dr. Leder works with patient to achieve long-term optimal health and the healthiest lifestyle, using diet, supplements, exercise, sleep, exercise, nutrient IV’s, coaching/counselling, and always prioritizing non-pharmaceutical options. SERVICES OFFERED: Medical Assessment/Comprehensive, Cutting-edge Lab Testing, Individualized Nutrition/Supplement Programs, IV Immune Support, Chelation (heavy metals & arterial plaque), Reconfiguration of the Gut Microbiome, Individual/Couples Counselling, Weight Loss. MODALITIES: Chronic Fatigue, Diabetes, GI Distress, Hormonal Imbalances, Psychological Issues/Stress, Thyroid/Adrenal Issues, Excessive Weight, Impaired Memory/Concentration, Autoimmune Disease, Metal Toxicity, ADD/Autism, Food Sensitivities. See ad, page 3.
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, musculo-skeletal 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, back cover.
HEALING
ROCK COLLAGE HEALING GALLERY
Judith P Dazle
441 B Cedar Lane, Teaneck NJ 07666 www.rockcollage.com
How you do Anything is How you do Everything" is my favorite quote and way of life. “Healing is not a one-size-fits-all all,” This is a saying that I have coined since beginning my spiritual journey. I realize that one healing modality may not work for everybody, and that’s ok. This is why I made Rock Collage (Founded in 2015) a one-stop healing shop. Not only am I a Grandmaster Reiki healer, but I am an experienced nutritionist, crystal practitioner, astrologer, herbalist, jeweler, yogi, artist, musician, life coach, and intuitive reader. Most importantly, I, Myself, invite you to do the same. I have made it so that Rock Collage is a place where individuality thrives, self-love is the norm, and everyone has a second chance at life. Becoming a mother in 2020 not only shifted my outlook on life but also helped me understand another level of healing and how to serve better the majority of my client base, who are also women with children. From assisting women to regulate their menstrual cycles to being able to pinpoint illness in the body by holding space of understanding for those who are working on their mental wellness and hand-making jewelry that serves a purpose, I am genuinely making space for the individual soul while making a collective impact. See ad, page 7..
HOLISTIC DENTAL CARE
VLADIMIR GASHINSKY, DDS 91 Millburn Ave, Millburn 973-457-4244
• HolisticDentalCenterNJ.com
We focus on performing holistic dental care that is good for the body as well as the teeth and gums. We put an emphasis on a more natural or holistic approach to dentistry. As a holistic dentist, Dr. Gashinsky treats the cause of the problem and not just the symptoms. He seeks to improve his patients’ quality of life through holistic dental care that respects and honors the body. See ad, page 2
“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! See ad, page 6.
LIFE COACH
EASE INTO YOUR LIGHT
Maral Varjabedyan, Life Coach
Welcome to Ease into Your Light! I am excited to cross paths with you and to support your journey of living your authenticity (i.e. light). It can feel difficult sometimes to live authentically when we get caught up in our day-to-day life. We can take note of moments of disconnection and remember our authenticity is always available for us to align with. Ease into Your Light is a platform through which I offer life coaching and creative expression workshops (e.g. vision board workshops) to align with authenticity and our heartfelt dreams. You may book a free Discovery Call through Ease-Into-YourLight.com to discuss your coaching goals and priorities with me.
PHONE SYSTEMS, LABEL PRINTING, IT SERVICES
TELCOMAVEN CONSULTING
Prince Plaza, Teaneck
201-833-4091 • Barry@TelcoMaven.com
TelcoMaven.com
Business phone solutions: Legacy Avaya, hosted VoIP Outlook integration and texting to landline, printers, copiers, fax, sales, service and supplies, DesignJet plotters sales, service programming and more. For manufacturing and product distribution: Zebra Sato thermal labels for products, GHS, barcodes and shipping. Barcode scanning and complete integration. Fail-safe Internet via 4G/LTE for 100% survivable reliable internet. Backup for phones cameras and credit card processing. Enterprise Solutions: NetGear managed POE switches. Thirdgeneration HIPPA-compliant security firewalls featuring Sonic Wall. VPN and WFH solutions.
Cattleya Trianae is not only a spa to pamper men and women, but it is guaranteed to help you replenish a finer and smoother look for all skin types, with all-natural products to give you that feeling of zen that you have been looking for. Come take a break and experience this feeling yourself. The founder Danelly Salamanca, a Colombian born and graduate of Parisian Beauty Academy Paul Mitchell Partner School, one of the top ranked schools known for their beauty and skincare industry. See ad, page 11.
Into a Business Turn Your Passion
Own Your Own
Natural Awakenings Magazine!
Make a meaningful impact in your community by becoming the owner of a Natural Awakenings magazine. Empower others with current, valuable insights and resources to enhance their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
As a franchise owner, you’ll inspire positive change, provide readers with tools for healthier living and connect local businesses with an audience eager for transformation.
Why Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine?
n Create a Healthier Community: Be the go-to resource for wellness and personal growth in your area.
n Boost Your Income: Take control of your financial future with a proven business model.
n Enjoy a Flexible Lifestyle: Work from home while pursuing a fulfilling, dynamic career.
What We Offer:
n A proven business model with low startup costs.
n Comprehensive training and friendly, ongoing support.
n Flexible work schedule with many work-from-home opportunities.
n Access to a network of like-minded franchise owners.
n Financing Options Available.
Join a thriving network of passionate franchise owners reshaping the future of holistic health and wellness.
Call 239-206-2000 for a FREE evaluation of your community’s potential. Learn more or apply today at: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com
Own a business that makes a difference.
for a free evaluation of your community's potential at 239-206-2000. To apply or learn more, visit Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com.
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Successfully combining the very best of Integrative and Traditional Medicine Since 1990
• Prevention & treatment of various medical conditions
• Comprehensive analysis of your current “level of health”
• Non-invasive testing of Cardio Vascular System and Preventive Therapy
• Intracellular analysis and correction of vitamins, minerals and toxic element levels
• Evaluation of Gastrointestinal, Endocrine and Immune System Disorders
• Diagnosis and treat Musculoskeletal, Neurological Disorders
• We uncover Food Sensitivities/Allergies
• Offering State-of-the-Art Metabolic testing and analysis
Services we provide to meet your needs
• Intravenous Nutrient Therapy – a blend of vital vitamins & nutrients
• Internist
• Gastroenterologist
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• Massage Therapist
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• We treat patients involved in motor vehicle accidents
