Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Friends,
As I sit at my desk with the windows open, the familiar “birdie-birdie-birdie” call of a cardinal cuts through the warm breeze. Add in the crescendoing buzz of cicadas in the trees and there’s no mistaking it: midsummer has fully arrived in Philadelphia. If Mother Nature had a mixtape, this would be track one.
August always seems to tiptoe in with a mix of calm and quiet urgency. The evenings are still long and golden, but the sun has started its slow descent just a bit earlier each day. I find myself trying to soak in every moment—whether it’s a scoop of gelato in Rittenhouse Square, a lazy Saturday at Clark Park Farmers Market or the magic of watching fireflies on a porch in Chestnut Hill. We know the season is fleeting which makes it all the more worth savoring.
This is the time to lean into local living—our neighborhoods and communities are vibrant with fresh produce, outdoor events and opportunities to connect. The farmers markets throughout the city and surrounding counties are overflowing with summer’s best: tomatoes that taste like sunshine, crisp peppers, sweet corn and juicy peaches. National Farmers Market Week (August 3 to 9) is the perfect excuse to shop local, eat fresh and support the growers and makers that help keep our region deliciously self-sustaining.
In the spirit of soaking up the moment and living in harmony, our August issue turns its attention to authenticity and alignment. Our feature story, “The Authentic Lifestyle: Learning to Realign With Our True Selves,” offers insight into how small, conscious choices in our daily lives can lead to greater joy, wellness and purpose. Whether you’re simplifying your routines, reconnecting with what matters or just pausing to take a deep breath, August is an ideal time to realign with intention.
We’re highlighting the many uses of humble baking soda in “Baking Soda: The All-Purpose Dynamo”—a tiny box with big, non-toxic benefits for both home and body care. And in “Listening to Kids Without Judgment,” we explore how simple shifts in communication can nurture stronger, more harmonious family connections. Fit Body highlights how more gyms and fitness spaces are integrating mind-body techniques for strength and inner balance.
So, here’s your nudge to embrace summer in all its vibrant glory: walk the Schuylkill River Trail, catch a concert at the Mann, eat a sandwich made from just-picked tomatoes or simply stare up at the sky and watch the clouds roll by. These are the moments that root us, restore us and remind us to be present.
Wishing you a season of connection, nourishment and joy,
Warmly,
Shae Marcus, Publisher
Take Charge of Your Concussion Recovery at Philly Wellness Center
New research shows that even mild concussions can cause lasting damage to brain structures, increasing the risk of long-term cognitive issues. While traditional approaches often focus only on managing symptoms, Philly Wellness Center is offering a more restorative path to healing.
“Our goal is to help patients not just feel better, but actually rebuild and protect their brain health,” says Catie Harris, NP, owner of the center.
“With advanced testing, we can measure brain inflammation, white matter integrity and metabolic function to create personalized treatment plans.”
The center’s protocols include plasmalogen supplementation and nutrient optimization to support the brain’s natural repair processes and improve resilience after injury.
“Whether you’re an athlete, a parent worried about your child’s head injury or someone still struggling with symptoms from a past concussion, you don’t have to settle for ‘wait and rest,’” says Harris. “There’s so much more we can do now.”
Location: 834 South St., Philadelphia. For more information or to schedule a brain health assessment, call 215-709-9710 or visit www.PhillyWellnessCenter.com
Coming this Fall!
Self-Heal
with Barbara O’Neill Oct. 14-18 at Lancaster Mennonite School
Embark on a 5-day journey of healing with Naturopath Barbara O’Neill, a world-renowned teacher who combines foundational knowledge about the body’s systems and a deep affinity for the wonders of nature to advance the way we think about health.
For more info and to purchase tickets, scan the QR code!
Shop Blue Door Merc & Perc online and in-person during the event for O’Neill-endorsed books, tools and natural remedies! www.TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com/shopbluedoor
Presented by :
One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals.
—Jean Vanier
2403 Main St, Ste B, Narvon, PA
We educate, encourage, support, and advise our clients to achieve health and wellness holistically!
Services include:
· Acupuncture · Bioenergetic Scans · Emotional Release EESystem · Far Infrared Sauna · Lymphatic Bodywork · Nutritional Counseling · Rife Therapy · and more
484-262-9020 · TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com
Elevate Your Healing Skills With Advanced Pranic Healing
Golden Light Pranic Healing Center will host an Advanced Pranic Healing class from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on September 20 and 21 in Cherry Hill. This Level 2 course of the core Pranic Healing curriculum is open to anyone that has completed the first level—the Basic Pranic Healing Course.
The class offers an opportunity to take healing skills to a new level by learning and practicing advanced energy healing techniques using specialized, colored prana. Participants will explore the properties of different types of energies and apply advanced methods for internal organ cleansing, blood purification, cellular regeneration, master healing revival, immunity protocols, and support for conditions such as tumors, fractures, wounds and Kundalini syndrome. The course also includes pre-op and post-op protocols, and instruction on how heart conditions and musculoskeletal disorders manifest in the energy body.
Designed for motivated energy healers, the program offers an informal, retreat-like setting with instructors that bring 50 years of combined healing experience.
For more information or to register, call/text 856-905-9119, email PranicHealing@comcast.net or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com.
Crack the Code to Personal Growth
Spiritual mentor and intuitive Dawn Ricci spent years uncovering hidden connections and solving complex cases as a top-rated private investigator. That training led to a powerful realization: The same investigative methods could be applied to inner work with profound results.
Ricci developed the 5MQ Intelligence System to help others move beyond surface-level advice and into deep, lasting change. The next event, coming in September, will focus on even more personal breakthroughs in health, relationships, business, finances and purpose-driven living. In the meantime, Ricci is offering one-on-one introductory sessions to provide a personalized preview of how powerful the MQ Intelligence System can be—and how individuals can begin the program right away.
The 5MQ Intelligence System combines principles of neuroscience and energetic flow into a clear, step-by-step process that eliminates guesswork and offers personalized, actionable guidance. Participants learn how to access intuitive clarity, identify patterns blocking progress and create momentum—without relying on trial and error.
“People struggle with generic advice that leads nowhere,” Ricci says. “My investigative background taught me to eliminate guesswork and follow what actually works.”
Register for a free 30-minute session at https://DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife today.
Dawn Ricci
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 low-to-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.
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.
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.
Scharvik from Getty Images
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.
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.
Aflo
Images from Aflo/CanvaPro
frender from Getty Images Signature, 3dalia from Getty
Baking Soda: The All-Purpose 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 vinegar 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
A Prayer for Protection and World Healing
by Michael Borokhovsky
In
gratitude to my spiritual teacher Master Choa Kok Sui.
The literal translation of the word guru is “the one who dispels darkness.” This inner darkness represents ignorance of our true nature. A guru brings light into people’s lives, awakening them from their slumber to realize their true identity. We are not our physical bodies; we are spiritual beings of Light, Love and Will, having a valuable, but temporary experience in a physical form. In essence, we are souls—spiritual beings endowed with divine qualities. We come to Earth for schooling, to learn lessons and to evolve into better souls.
Amid daily stress and frustration, we often focus on our immediate suffering, losing sight of our spiritual essence. This is when the inner voice of the guru should guide us, reminding us of who we are. On a global scale, during times of profound human suffering—when natural calamities shake the planet and societal polarization is rampant, hatred surrounds us and deep anger seems to dominate our inner worlds—great gurus, the messengers of divinity, emerge to shine their Light, helping us reclaim our human identity.
About 100 years ago, before World War II, Master Djwhal Khul shared a powerful universal prayer known as The Great Invocation. Its purpose is to unite people from all backgrounds and alleviate their suffering. This prayer was telepathically transmitted to Alice Bailey, who published it in 1937 in her book Externalization of the Hierarchy. Through this prayer, recited by individuals of all nationalities, we can contribute to the healing of our troubled world.
Here’s how it can be incorporated it into one’s practice:
Concentrate on our Crown energy center located at the top of our heads and say:
“The Great Invocation
From the point of Light within the Mind of God
Let Light stream forth into the minds of every person, every being.
Let Light descend on Earth.”
Concentrate on our Heart energy center in the middle of our chests and say:
“From the point of Love within the Heart of God
Let Love stream forth into the hearts of every person, every being.
Let Love descend on Earth.
May the Great One return to Earth.”
Concentrate on Ajna, the area between our eyebrows, and say:
“From the center where the Will of God is known
Let purpose guide the wills of every person, every being—
The purpose which Holy Masters know and serve.”
Concentrate on your whole body and especially our feet, and say:
“From the center which we call the human race
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out May it seal the door where evil dwells.
Let Light, Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.”
To enhance divine protection for oneself and the entire family, repeat this prayer three times, daily, while in a calm meditative state. This practice can strengthen our soul connection as well as promote planetary peace.
For more information on courses taught by Michael Borokhovsky, email PranicHealing@comcast.net or visit www. PranicHealingCenter.com
—Bruce Lee
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
Frizi from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Taking an Energy Inventory
by Carrie Jackson
In a world that can be overwhelmingly stimulating, taking a moment to focus on mindfulness helps us reset and refocus. “Your body is your temple, and your intuition is your oracle,” says dharma coach Sahara Rose Ketabi. She recommends meditation, intuitive journaling and embodied movement as catalysts for connecting to our inner guidance and discovering life’s purpose.
• Meditation enhances listening skills, emotional awareness and overall human well-being. Turn off all distractions and notice any thoughts that arise.
• Journaling transforms intangible thoughts into visible reflections. Take five minutes every day to jot down observations, feelings and sensations.
• Embodied movement releases trapped tension, stress and trauma within the body. Start each day with a fluid, sensual and grounding movement session to foster greater joy, creativity, bliss, pleasure and peace.
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 purpose. “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 being 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.
A beloved cornerstone of the community’s holistic health scene is entering a new chapter. The Center Life in Balance—renowned for its integrative mind, body and spirit modalities—has recently changed hands and is preparing for a grand reopening in the coming months.
After more than twenty years as a guiding light and healer in the area, Susan Drummond, the original owner, has decided to step back from business operations to return to her roots in healing. Her dedication and compassion have touched countless lives, establishing The Center as a sanctuary for those seeking whole-person wellness.
Stepping into the role of owner is her longtime friend, Cory Tapper, a dynamic professional holding certi cations in Coaching, Hypnosis, Pranic Healing and Reiki. With over thirty years of entrepreneurial success behind her, Cory brings both a wealth of business acumen and a deep commitment to holistic and spiritual guidance. Cory’s longstanding friendship with Susan and her expertise in multiple healing disciplines promise a seamless transition and exciting innovations for The Center
The community can look forward to a grand reopening celebration in the next couple of months, where new and familiar faces alike will be welcomed to explore expanded o erings and experience renewed energy at The Center. Stay tuned for details on the grand reopening event, set to mark a vibrant new era for holistic health in our area.
Celebrated Healer Passes Torch to Longtime Friend & Experienced Entrepreneur
Small but Mighty
Growing and Enjoying Microgreens and Sprouts
by Chloe Karydes Krecun
Microgreens and sprouts are small but mighty, delivering considerable benefits for the health conscious. Whether grown at home or purchased fresh from a local grocer or farmers market, these superfoods make for an easy and accessible way to add texture, flavor and nutrients to everyday meals.
Subtle differences distinguish these two remarkable plants. Microgreens are edible, immature seedlings grown in soil or a similar medium and harvested upon the appearance of the first few cotyledon leaves. Sprouts are germinated seeds that are cultivated in water until they grow into an edible plant. Their roots, seeds and leaves are edible.
“Anyone can grow a small tray of microgreens on a windowsill or around a kitchen counter,” says Katie Staudt, owner and head grower of Meraki Urban Farm, in Chicago. She points out the common misconception that microgreens can only be grown in a liquid solution. While some do-it-yourself kits employ hydroponic techniques, they are not the most efficient growing method and may lead to mold growth.
“You don’t have to have a green thumb if you have the right information,” says Staudt. Because they can be easily propagated in small trays, microgreens are ideal for small, indoor spaces. She suggests using soilless media made of peat, coconut coir or hemp that allow for proper drainage while holding the right amount of moisture. The plants demand little
maintenance and are usually harvested when the greens are one to three inches tall, making them a perfect choice for individuals with limited gardening experience. Staudt recommends beginning with the radish sprout, which can grow and be ready to eat in as little as seven days. Kale, purple kohlrabi, red acre cabbage, bok choi and wasabi mustard sprouts are also easy-to-grow varietals.
Sprouts can be more challenging to grow because they require greater oversight to preserve food safety. It is important to soak the seeds in water and rinse them daily with clean water to maintain a moist environment
while also reducing the risk of bacterial growth. According to agricultural experts at Penn State Extension, bacteria in the sprouting seeds “can continue to thrive if proper food handling techniques are not practiced during harvest, processing and preparation.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides good agricultural practices for growing, harvesting, packing and holding sprouts, which include using clean water, wearing disposable sterile gloves when handling the seeds and sprouts, and cooling the sprouts to 32° F immediately after harvesting. The FDA strongly recommends cooking sprouts thoroughly before consuming them to eliminate harmful bacteria. Children, the elderly, pregnant women and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts altogether.
According to Dominique Kline, farm manager of The Hope Farm, in Alabama, “Radish or broccoli sprouts would probably be the easiest ones to start out with at home, just because those are some of the most reliable and have the fastest turnover.” Alfalfa, mung bean and sunflower sprouts are also relatively easy to grow.
Packed With Power
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, microgreens contain five times greater levels of vitamins and carotenoids than their mature plant counterparts, including vitamins C, E, K and A, as well as beta carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin and violaxanthin.
“You can eat 50 cups of broccoli or a single cup of broccoli sprouts for similar nutrition and benefit,” explains Emily Ho, nutrition professor and director of the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, in an article published by the American Heart Association.
It is important to understand that these plants’ shelf life is short once they are cut. “The closer they are to being alive, the better they are for you,” Kline asserts. For those that prefer to purchase their produce instead of growing it, local farmers markets or select grocery stores also offer fresh microgreens and sprouts that provide the same nutritional benefits and quality. This can be a convenient way to not compromise on freshness or effectiveness.
From Garden to Plate in Seconds
Not only are microgreens and sprouts relatively simple to grow, they are even easier to eat. Incorporating them into meals is quite straightforward. Kline recommends adding them to any hot or cold food as an easy nutrient boost. Sprinkle them on salads, eggs or pizza for added texture, contrast and flavor. Arugula and radish microgreens add a delightful peppery flavor, while mung beans offer a milder, slightly
sweet experience, and sunflower sprouts lend a nutty flavor to any dish.
Whether enjoyed fresh from a windowsill at home or sourced from a local market, microgreens and sprouts bring nutrient density along with delicious flavors and textures, making them an attractive green to incorporate into everyday meals.
Chloe Karydes Krecun is a sophomore at University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. Connect at LinkedIn.com/in/ chloe-karydes-krecun
NATURAL HEALTH
LEMON HUMMUS VEGGIE BOWL WITH SUNFLOWER SPROUTS AND BASIL
YIELD: 2 TO 3 SERVINGS
1 can chickpeas, chilled and drained
¼ cup tahini
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
4 Tbsp water
1 tsp tamari or liquid aminos
¼ tsp sea salt or smoked salt
¾ cup sunflower sprouts or mixed sprouts
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, tamari or liquid aminos and salt in a blender. Pulse blender a few times then blend ingredients until smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add another tablespoon of water. Transfer hummus to a bowl.
Add tomatoes, basil leaves and a thick layer of sprouts on top of the hummus. Drizzle everything with olive oil, an extra splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of tamari.
Enjoy with bread, pita, crackers or spooned over a bed of freshly made quinoa, couscous, lentils or a green salad.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com
GenAI/CanvaPro
MICROGREEN SMOOTHIE
YIELD: 1 SERVING
1 cup frozen organic berries
1 cup coconut water
1 frozen banana
1 oz broccoli microgreens
2 Tbsp hemp seeds or chia seeds
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Katie Staudt.
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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 health-conscious 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 equilibrium, presence and joy throughout the journey.
Intuitive Energy Healer &
Yan Krukau from Pexels/CanvaPro
Restoring Brain Health
A New Frontier in Concussion Recovery
Concussions are often dismissed as minor injuries, but new research shows, if left untreated, they can have lasting impacts on brain health. Millions of people—including athletes, children and adults—suffer head injuries every year, many of which go underdiagnosed or receive only symptom-based care. Yet a growing movement in restorative medicine is shifting the focus from merely managing symptoms to actively rebuilding brain health after trauma.
It’s important to realize that the best weapon against trauma or disease can be health itself. Advanced imaging and blood testing methods can reveal microscopic damage to brain structures—even when MRIs appear normal—allowing practitioners to measure and monitor recovery with unprecedented precision.
One of the most significant findings is that white matter injuries, which often result from the shearing forces of a concussion, can persist long after outward symptoms resolve. Studies show that even when athletes are cleared to return to play, their brains may still be inflamed and structurally compromised, putting them at risk for further injury and long-term cognitive decline.
This understanding has sparked a new approach: Instead of simply resting and waiting, patients can proactively nourish their brains to rebuild critical structures. Central to this process are plasmalogens, unique phospholipids essential for brain membrane health and peptides. By supplementing with these biochemical building blocks, it’s possible to support the brain’s natural repair processes, improve neuroplasticity and enhance resilience against future injuries.
Beyond supplements, restorative protocols emphasize optimizing overall health before injuries occur. Testing and addressing deficiencies in nutrients like B vitamins, creatine, phosphatidylcholine and essential fatty acids can dramatically increase the brain’s reserve capacity. By building a foundation of metabolic resilience, individuals—especially athletes and those in high-risk environments—can better protect their brains from the devastating effects of trauma.
Advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as multi-sequence MRIs and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, can now measure not just abrain structures, but also metabolic markers like glutathione, creatine and neuroinflammation indicators. These technologies offer hope for early intervention and objective tracking of healing, empowering patients and practitioners with actionable insights.
As we head into a busy season of outdoor activities and youth sports, awareness of concussion prevention and proactive brain health strategies is more important than ever. Whether oneself or a loved one is returning to the field, engaging in high-impact exercise or simply wanting to protect long-term brain function, it’s time to rethink how we approach head injuries.
True health goes beyond the absence of symptoms—it’s about building resilience and restoring balance so our brains can adapt, recover and thrive. By prioritizing proactive care, we can transform how we heal from concussions and support lifelong cognitive vitality.
Catie Harris, Ph.D., MBA, CRNP, is the owner of the Philly Wellness Center, which provides both weight and age management along with longevity services, and is located at 834 South St. in Philadelphia. For more information or to make an appointment, call 215-709-9710, email info@PhillyWellnessCenter.com or visit www.PhillyWellnessCenter.com
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
Bali Sacred Soul Bali Sacred Soul Women’s
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 feelings 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 ges tures. 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 en tries 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.
SEPTEMBER 20 - 27, 2026
Step into a sacred space where your soul can breathe and reconnect. Nestled in the heart of Bali, this retreat offers a holistic journey—nurturing body, heart, and spirit through healing practices, mindful movement, and cultural connection. It’s more than just a getaway—it’s a return to wholeness, joy, and inner peace.
ParkerDeen from Getty Images
Expanding Your Healthspan
The Role of Comprehensive Healthspan Testing
by Dr. Asare B. Christian, M.D., MPH
In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, the focus is shifting from simply living longer to living better. This shift centers around the concept of healthspan—the number of years a person lives in good health, free from chronic disease and disability. While medical advances have increased lifespan, many individuals spend their later years managing illness rather than enjoying life fully.
This growing awareness has sparked global interest in proactive approaches to aging well. Recent data shows that interest in longevity and healthspan optimization has increased by more than 40 percent worldwide in the last five years, as more people seek to extend not just the quantity, but the quality of their lives.
At the heart of this movement is healthspan testing, a comprehensive and science-based evaluation designed to help individuals take control of their long-term well-being before chronic conditions take hold.
Healthspan testing goes far beyond the standard annual check-up. It’s a proactive, personalized assessment that looks deeply into key biological systems to identify early imbalances, risk factors and opportunities for optimization.
Key Components of Healthspan Testing
1. Advanced Laboratory Testing
Comprehensive blood work and biomarker analysis reveal insights into:
• Inflammation Levels: Chronic inflammation plays a key role in aging and disease development.
• Gut Health: The state of the digestive system impacts immunity, mental well-being and nutrient absorption.
2. Lifestyle and Genetic Assessment:
A full evaluation includes factors such as nutrition, physical activity, stress levels, sleep patterns and genetic predispositions—all of which contribute to aging and overall health.
3. Personalized Optimization Plan:
The result is a tailored roadmap that may include dietary adjustments, exercise protocols, targeted supplementation, stress management strategies and ongoing monitoring to help individuals thrive at every stage of life.
Why Healthspan Testing Matters
Many chronic illnesses—such as heart disease, diabetes and cognitive decline—develop silently over decades. Healthspan testing allows for early detection of subtle warning signs, providing the opportunity to intervene before these conditions manifest.
By focusing on prevention rather than reaction, individuals can maintain physical vitality, mental sharpness, and independence for longer periods. It’s a shift toward living life fully, with the capacity to engage in the activities and experiences that matter most.
A Proactive Step Toward Better Living
Healthspan testing is an investment in a healthier, more fulfilling future. As the global conversation around longevity continues to grow, this proactive approach offers individuals the chance to take control of their health—adding not just years to life, but more life to those years.
Dr. Asare B. Christian, M.D., MPH, specializes in integrative pain management, performance enhancement and healthspan optimization at Aether Medicine, in Wayne, Main Line Philadelphia, PA. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.AetherMedicine.com
Calendar of Events
Email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com for guidelines. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.
Friday, August 1
Tyler Henry (21+ Event) – 8pm. Medium Tyler Henry, star of two-hit NETFLIX series Live From the Other Side and Life After Death with Tyler Henry, continues to be the most sought-after clairvoyant medium both in the United States and around the world. Parx Casino, 2999 Street Road, Bensalem. www.ParxCasino.com
Saturday, August 2
Introduction in Integrated Energy Therapy (IET) – 10:30am-12pm. Learn about this angelic healing energy modality called IET, and experience the Angelic Heartlink meditation! Cost: $29. 135 North Main Street, Sellersville. www.Kaleidoscope-Angels.com
Tuesday, August 5
Plant Swap – 6pm. Bring plants, plant cuttings, or any garden-related items (i.e., books, tools, vegetables from your garden, etc.), meet fellow garden enthusiasts, and go home as a new plant parent! It’s a onefor-one exchange; if you bring five items, you’ll go home with five new items. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, 1438 South St., Philadelphia. https://PHSOnline.org
RECLAIM: Midlife Mastery Women’s Circle – 7:30-9pm. For women who are ready to pivot, embrace change, or reconnect with their soul and purpose in midlife. If you’re seeking clarity, a fresh perspective, or the courage to step into what’s next … this is your moment to realign and rise! Mishana Yoga, 3300 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia. www.MishanaYoga.com
Wednesday, August 6
Outdoor Morning Yoga Class – 9:15-10:15am. Join us for a peaceful start to your day with Morning Yoga at the museum. Michener Museum, 138 South Pine Street, Doyelstown. https://DragonflyYogaStudio.tulasoftware.com.
Tuesday August 12
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence System – Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Amplify your intuition and manifest all that is waiting for you, now! www.DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife
Saturday, August 16
Unlock Your Inner Peace and Clarity with Transformative In-person Sessions – Are you seeking healing, guidance, or insight into your life’s journey? Join me for empowering experiences that can help you find balance, connect with the other side, and uncover the wisdom within. Blue Moon Wolf Healing Center, 300 South Street, Telford. www.BlueMoonWolfHealingCenter.com
Tuesday August 19
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence™️ System – Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Amplify your intuition and manifest all that is waiting for you, now! www.DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife
Wednesday August 20
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence™️ System – Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Amplify your intuition and manifest all that is waiting for you, now! www.DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife
Thursday, August 21
FREE Online Healing and Meditation with Natalie – 7-8pm. This is your chance to pause, take a breather, and reconnect with your light. Bring more harmony to your life, peace, and simply learn to relax and recharge. To reserve your spot and receive the Zoom link, please email GoldenLight@comcast.net or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com
Tuesday, October 7
THRIVE TOGETHER
Beginning October 7, Group Coaching for Women in Midlife Ready to Reclaim Their Well-Being. Are you always taking care of everyone else—and putting your own needs last? Thrive Together is a 10-session virtual group coaching experience designed for women in midlife who are ready to make sustainable changes for their health, energy and well-being. Cost: $489. www.GrowthAndGritHealth.com
Summer has always been good to me, even the bittersweet end, with the slanted yellow light.
—Paul Monette
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Ongoing
Events
Sunday
The PHS Pop Up Garden at Manayunk – 12pm-9pm, Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu and Fri. A vibrant combination of outdoor bar, restaurant and local garden. Once an empty vacant lot, this space is now a lively garden with plentiful seating, gorgeous plant views, and the perfect spot to gather with a delicious botanical cocktail in hand. 106 Jamestown Avenue, Philadelphia. www.Manayunk.com
Tuesday
Balanced Being Sessions – 9:30-10:30am. Embrace gentle movements that suits everyone, weave through breathwork to calm the mind, and immerse yourself in guided meditation to find balance and peace. www.EmpoweredLifeBlueBell.com
Wednesday
Free Sunrise Fitness Hikes – 7-8pm. Take a mid-week break to greet the sun, clear your mind, and get your heart rate up. Teens & Adults. Cost: free. Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600 Verree Rd., Philadelphia. www.PEC@phila.gov
Friday
Pollinator Friday: Bees – 11am. National Bee Day is Saturday, August 16! In preparation to support our bees, join us this Pollinator Friday to learn about native bees in Pennsylvania, and take away your own native bee house! Free with general admission. Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia. www.MorrisArboretum.org
October 12, 2025 Doubletree by Hilton Cherry Hill, NJ
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com to request our media kit.
Bodywork
NANCY WALTON
Awaken & Restore Massage and Wellness Center
716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Suite 204A Ambler, PA 19002
Here at Awaken & Restore, Nancy Walton is a Reiki Master and combines individual Sound baths & Color Light Vibrational sessions to release energy imbalances to restore your body and mind to your natural state of homeostasis. She is also a Foot Reflexologist (since 1989) to optimize your energy and health. Call 267-221-7160 to schedule an appointment.
As a board-certified health and wellness coach, my mission is to empower women to take charge of their health and well-being with clarity, vitality and confidence. Healthy aging starts now and is supported by healthy lifestyle choices. I will be your ally as we create meaningful goals, and a customized action plan aligned with your values and unique needs.
STEPHANE PONCELET
570-449-2219
calwl2022@gmail.com
www.Create-A-LifeWorthLiving.com
Clients learn to observe and respond to deep-seated emotions of conflict, emptiness, and loneliness that often arise from family dysfunction. Guided in mourning the unchangeable aspects of their past, helped to own their truths and grieve their losses, clients are encouraged to show themselves the love, patience, and respect they truly deserve. A transformative process which creates a life that is truly worth living.
Experience profound healing through spirit connections. Receive clear evidence of loved ones’ presence and transformative guidance for life’s challenges. Gallery, private and group readings, live or Zoom.
Pranic Healing Sessions and Pranic Psychotherapy
NATALIE BOROKHOVSKY
Certified Pranic Healer and Certified Pranic Psychotherapist
I offer highly customized sessions for various physical and emotional ailments as well as providing valuable energy support for your daily activities and major projects. If you are struggling with a condition or just looking for more peace and harmony, my unique holistic approach can help. I have completed years of training under the founder of Pranic Healing and have been in professional practice for over 20 years. I am offering a limited-time $20 intro session to all new customers who want to try it.
Regenerative Medicine
ASARE B. CHRISTIAN, M.D., MPH FOUNDER
Regenerative Medicine, Integrative Medicine and Lifestyle Plans
565 E. Swedesford Road, Suite 315 Wayne, PA 19087 484-806-1101
www.AetherMedicine.com
The journey to optimal wellness can feel overwhelming, especially when traditional approaches fail to deliver results. At Aether Medicine, we understand that your health is unique—requiring a precise, personalized approach that honors your individuality and goals.
Wellness Center
CATIE HARRIS, PHD, MBA, CRNP Owner, Philly Wellness Center 834 South Street Philadelphia PA 19147 215-709-9710
Info@PhillyWellnessCenter.com
Dr. Catie Harris NP, blends natural healing with advanced therapies to support women’s wellness, hormone balance, and graceful aging through holistic, regenerative, and personalized care. The center offers weight, age and longevity management services.
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.
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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.
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Join a thriving network of passionate franchise owners reshaping the future of holistic health and wellness.
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