is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Friends,
They say 50 is the new 30. Honestly, I’m still not sure who they are or what scale they’re using. Energy levels? Looks? Retirement countdown? If it’s about remembering why I walked into a room, I can tell you with confidence that they are mistaken. At this stage, I can forget my purpose mid-step and somehow manage to wake up sore after a night of lying perfectly still. Apparently, sleep now counts as a high-impact sport.
But here’s the good news: aging isn’t only about what we lose—it’s about what we can strengthen, discover, and celebrate. Which brings us to this month’s issue— where we shine the spotlight on brain health.
Our feature story, “Activating Neuroplasticity: The Brain’s Ultimate Rewind Button,” explores the brain’s ability to rewire itself. From regaining speech after a stroke to learning a new hobby, our brains constantly reshape and strengthen connections. It’s proof that fresh starts are possible at any age.
Food also plays a starring role in mental vitality. In “Feeding Our Brain Power: What to Eat for Mental Acuity,” we look at how simple shifts—like adding leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidant-rich foods—can sharpen focus and protect long-term brain health.
The body-mind connection also shines through. “Strong at Any Age: Embracing Resistance Training During Menopause” shows how strength training builds confidence and vitality. Meanwhile, “Rewiring the Stress Response: Therapies to Restore Balance and Calm” offers practical ways to quiet the nervous system and manage stress with resilience.
We also honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month with “Emotional Wellness After Cancer: Mindfulness and Movement as Healing Paths.” Even when treatment ends, emotional healing continues. Mindfulness helps survivors observe feelings without judgment and shift from fear to calm. Paired with yoga, tai chi or qigong, it restores balance, renewal and gentle support for both mind and body.
Finally, October brings one of our favorite gatherings—the Holistic Health & Healing Expo on October 12 at the DoubleTree by Hilton. This annual event has become a hub for connection, education and inspiration. In this issue, we highlight some of the incredible vendors and workshops you’ll experience—covering everything from holistic healing and energy work to natural products and wellness tools.
So yes, maybe 50 is the new 30—or maybe it’s just 50 with more wisdom, better stories and a deeper appreciation for naps. Either way, I’m grateful for the journey and for the chance to share this October issue with you. Here’s to keeping our brains and hearts healthy—at every age.
Natural Awakenings
Shae Marcus, Publisher
Step Up for Love: Join Fifth Annual Village Walk/Run for Haiti
We the Village, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Love Orphanage in Haiti, invites the community to take part in the fifth annual Village Walk/ Run on October 4. Participants can join in Philadelphia at the Art Museum, walk with Soul Sanctuary’s South Jersey group at Strawberry Lake Park, in Moorestown, or take part anywhere—they can walk, run, swim, cycle or even dance their way through a 5K or 10K, solo or with friends and family.
Love Orphanage was founded by Haitian-born Gabriel Fedelu after the devastating 2010 earthquake, which left thousands of children orphaned or abandoned. Fifteen years later, it continues to provide stability despite political unrest, food shortages and disrupted schools.
For more information or to register, email DocMilano@KathyMilano.com or visit www.LoveOrphanage.org
Expanding Integrative Healing in Medford
Rebecca Fanali, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, is taking her practice—Fanali Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine—to new heights at The Center for Living, in Medford. Known for her expertise in acupuncture, Fanali now offers an expanded suite of holistic services, including microneedling, cupping, Chinese herbal medicine, gua sha, moxibustion, reiki, aromatherapy and birth doula support.
Her interest in healing began at age 13, when an acupuncture session helped ease anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and digestive issues. She earned a bachelor’s degree in behavioral neuroscience from Florida Atlantic University, followed by a master’s in acupuncture and a master’s certificate in Chinese herbal medicine from the Won Institute, in Pennsylvania. Studies abroad in South Korea, where she received a certificate in traditional Korean medicine, further shaped her ability to integrate Western science with Eastern healing traditions.
Fanali’s approach is rooted in treating the whole person—mind, body and spirit. Whether supporting fertility, easing pain, balancing mental health, or offering cosmetic rejuvenation through facial acupuncture and microneedling, she creates personalized plans for every patient.
Location: 45 S. Main St. For more information or to make an appointment, call 310-951-8281 or visit www.FanaliAcuAndIntegrativeMedicine.com.
Deepen Your Teaching With Advanced Yoga Training at Live in Joy
Live in Joy Yoga & Wellness Studio, in Audubon, will launch its Yoga Alliance-accredited 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training this December. The program, designed for certified instructors, is led by studio co-owners Sharon Plower and Megan Marchese.
“This training blends heart, community and wisdom,” observes Plower. “Think advanced asana; specialty trainings in restorative, chair, yin and yoga nidra; and a soulful study of Ayurveda for a holistic approach to well-being.”
The curriculum also covers yoga philosophy, with teachings from the Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita. Plower explains that the focus is on “bringing these timeless lessons into daily life and into the classroom.”
Live in Joy offers a supportive, inspiring space for teachers that want to expand their toolkit or reconnect with their own practice on a deeper level.
Location: 118 W. Merchant St. For more information, visit www.LiveInJoyYoga.com.
Photo courtesy
Rebecca Fanali
Photo courtesy
Rebecca Fanali
Learn Pranic Healing: A Key to Fulfillment
Golden Light Pranic Healing Center invites participants to discover the transformative power of energy healing at a two-day Pranic Healing class from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on November 15 and 16, in Cherry Hill. This no-touch healing system is open to anyone with a loving heart and a willingness to heal, providing an opportunity to learn energy anatomy, measure chakras and correct energy imbalances.
Developed by Master Choa Kok Sui, modern Pranic Healing is a comprehensive system that synthesizes both ancient and modern healing methods. Senior instructors personally trained by the founder will facilitate the class in a relaxed, retreat-like environment, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking and real-world examples. Attendees will gain practical skills in pranic first aid, self-healing and distant healing. They will learn breathing exercises to generate energy, explore protocols for addressing various physical and emotional ailments, and practice energy hygiene and prevention techniques.
A highlight of the class is Meditation on Twin Hearts, which aims to bring planetary peace and illumination. Students will leave feeling empowered to use their newfound skills to heal themselves and others.
Location: Cherry Hill. For more information or to register, text 856-905-9119 or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com
Find Your Way Back to the Body With Trauma-Informed Yoga
Balanced Planet Yoga, in Marlton, hosts Trauma-Informed Yoga: A Practice of Embodiment with instructor Anna Trezzi every Sunday at 4 p.m. The class is designed to help participants reconnect with their bodies through choice, safety and compassion.
“This class invites you to experience yoga as an opportunity to make choices about how you move your body,” Trezzi explains. “Rather than following instructions to achieve an external goal, you’re guided to move in ways that feel supportive, allowing internal sensations to be your cue.”
With nearly 20 years of teaching experience and certification as a Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator, Trezzi offers a practice that begins with gentle somatic explorations and unfolds into student-directed movement. There are no physical assists, creating a space where empowerment and trust in the body’s wisdom take precedence.
Participants describe the practice as deeply liberating, often saying it gives “a felt sense of freedom” or feels like “returning home to my body.” The class is open to anyone—beginners and experienced yogis alike—seeking a more compassionate and self-directed connection with themselves.
Location: 795 E. Rte. 70, Ste. F. For more information or to register, visit www.BalancedPlanetYoga.com.
Celebrate the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) at The Center for Living
The Center for Living and The Zen Den on Main, in Medford, will host their annual Day of the Dead Celebration from 4 to 8 p.m. on November 2 with workshops and offerings that honor this Mexican tradition. Guests will learn about its history, participate in ceremony and celebrate remembrance in community.
With roots tracing back to Indigenous Aztec rituals, Day of the Dead blends ancient customs with Catholic All Saints’ Day. Families create altars, or ofrendas, adorned with candles, marigolds, photos and favorite foods (or items) of departed loved ones, welcoming their spirits for a joyful reunion. Skulls made of sugar, papel picado banners and the scent of copal incense all symbolize the cycle of life and death.
Rather than mourning, the Day of the Dead celebration honors life, love and memory. It invites people to keep connections alive, share stories and honor the legacies of those that have passed, embracing death as part of life’s natural rhythm.
Location: 45 S. Main St. Preregistration is recommended and can be done online. For more information, call 609-975-8379 or visit www.TheCenterForLiving.net or www.ZenDenOnMain.com
Learn Why Your Manifestation Attempts
Keep Falling Short
Dawn Ricci, a seasoned private investigator turned manifestation expert, is offering a complimentary 5MQ Manifestation Workshop this fall to teach participants how to apply detective-level observation skills to achieving their goals. Registration is now open.
“The workshop promises to teach attendees how to read the evidence life provides and align actions accordingly,” says Ricci. “Forget vision boards and endless affirmations.”
Drawing from decades of investigative experience, Ricci argues that manifestation isn’t wishful thinking—it’s about recognizing patterns and following evidence. “Solving cases wasn’t about luck,” she explains. “It was about spotting patterns, following evidence and trusting instincts. Manifestation works the same way.”
Her method centers on three core rules: achieving absolute clarity on desired outcomes, trusting intuitive timing and identifying life’s constant signals that most people overlook. This investigative approach transforms manifestation from guesswork into a structured process.
Registration is open at www.DawnRicci.com/5MQ October and November.
Dawn Ricci
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infant Health
A study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology highlights the powerful role breastfeeding plays in building a healthy gut microbiome in infants. Although infants cannot digest human milk oligosaccharides, these components nourish beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium infantis, a species that reduces inflammation and supports immune development.
Breast milk also contains secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), an antibody that blocks harmful bacteria and viruses from attaching to the gut lining, and reduces inflammation in infants. Higher SIgA intake in infancy leads to healthier immune patterns and may provide better protection against allergies and infections. Breast milk also includes living bacteria and other bioactive molecules that contribute to the early seeding of the gut, helping to set the stage for the infant’s future microbiome.
Laboratory Tests for Holistic Health
The rise of functional medicine, integrative medicine and other forms of holistic health care has increased the demand for specialized laboratory testing. According to the National Institutes of Health, 37 percent of American adults use at least one complementary or integrative health approach.
To meet this demand, Labcorp has launched a new specialized testing panel to help providers identify underlying imbalances and support preventive care strategies. This panel includes an advanced cardiometabolic biomarker panel; a comprehensive nutrient panel; a longevity and vitality panel analyzing 71 biomarkers related to aging, inflammation and organ function; men’s and women’s comprehensive hormone panels focused on reproductive and endocrine health; and men’s and women’s whole-body wellness panels with more than 75 biomarkers related to various bodily systems.
The new service enables testing of more than 1,000 biomarkers, providing insights into a patient’s health, from heart function and
Curcumin’s Potential To Revolutionize Cataract Care
Cataracts, a leading cause of blindness, occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes cloudy due to free radical damage. Curcumin, the main compound in turmeric, is a natural antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and reduce their harm. A systematic review published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine evaluated whether curcumin could prevent or treat cataracts.
The researchers analyzed 17 animal and/or lab-grown cell studies, demonstrating that curcumin prevented or slowed cataract formation by reducing damage to fats in cells and boosting antioxidant enzymes that protect the eye.
Despite these findings, the researchers noted that human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits before curcumin can be recommended as a treatment. Additionally, improving curcumin’s absorption, or bioavailability, is crucial to make it effective as medicine.
hormonal balance to micronutrient levels and overall wellness. In addition, Labcorp Whole Health Solutions offers healthcare providers consultation services, digital test ordering, tools to interpret results, and analytics to identify high-risk patients and improve healthcare delivery.
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Ear Acupressure for Sexual Dysfunction
Auricular acupressure uses vaccaria seeds on specific ear points taped in place and periodically rubbed in a circular motion to stimulate them. A study in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine investigated whether this type of acupressure could help improve sexual function in postmenopausal women.
When the ovaries stop producing hormones like estrogen, mood, sleep and sexual desire may suffer. Low libido, vaginal dryness or pain during sex affects nearly half of postmenopausal women.
In a controlled, randomized, triple-blind trial with 90 Iranian women, half received ear acupressure and the other half received a placebo treatment for 10 sessions over five weeks. Researchers applied the seeds to ear acupoints linked to sexual function.
Participants completed questionnaires about their sexual function, desire and satisfaction before and after the treatments. The acupressure group reported significantly improved sexual functioning and less distress compared to those in the placebo group, with benefits lasting up to two months after treatment.
Passionate about Your Total Wellness
Prevention is the hallmark of good healthcare. As your proactive partner in health, I am devoted to helping you and your family stay healthy. At The Institute for Medical Wellness, we integrate traditional family care with holistic and complementary medicine to treat the whole person for a healthy heart, mind and body. Our balanced, caring approach empowers you to tap into your body’s natural ability to heal by addressing the root cause of illness – not just medicating symptoms.
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for autoimmune disease and the prevention of recurring cancers
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Gene Technology Against Malaria
Each year, 263 million people contract malaria and 600,000 die from it worldwide. Malaria spreads when an infected mosquito bites a person. Researchers have discovered a method to alter an amino acid in the mosquitoes, preventing the disease from reaching their salivary glands, the site of transmission. Their report in Nature details the use of CRISPR gene editing to modify the mosquito’s genome, changing the amino acid.
This genome change can then be disseminated through the mosquito population using a gene drive, which ensures that a specific mutation or gene is inherited by all offspring. Gene drive technology is controversial due to potential unforeseen negative impacts. A minor genomic change could lead to mutations in other parts of the genome, causing unintended changes that might disrupt the ecosystem’s balance.
The researchers hope to release these engineered mosquitoes into the wild and eventually eliminate the transmission of malaria. However, it will take several years before this technique is ready for field testing, which requires community and government approval.
The Force Behind Giant Hail
Hailstorms cause more than $10 billion annually in property damage, injuries and fatalities. In 2024, State Farm paid more than $3.8 billion for home repairs and $1.2 billion for auto repairs due to hailstorms nationwide. In 2022, a storm in Spain produced hail nearly five inches in diameter, injuring 70 people, killing a child and damaging buildings.
Hail forms in a thunderstorm when warm air rises, carrying raindrops into the cold atmosphere where they freeze and then fall at sizes ranging from tiny chips to baseballs or larger, depending on the rain amount, updraft strength and duration, as well as how long the ice remains suspended.
The Changing Course of Whale Migration
Great whales such as the humpback capture 33 tons of carbon annually each, according to the World Wildlife Fund. Their nutrient-rich waste supports other ocean species, making their protection essential for biodiversity and the planet.
McGill University, in Quebec, Canada, conducted research on humpback whales, published in Scientific Reports, noting that rising ocean temperatures are disrupting their migration patterns. After analyzing eight years of satellite tracking data of 42 humpback whales in the southeastern Pacific, the researchers discovered that the whales depend on local environmental cues and long-term memories to decide when to migrate.
Each year, they travel thousands of miles from Central American waters to Antarctica, aligning with the annual sea ice melt that triggers the krill bloom. The researchers are uncertain if humpback whales will continue this timely journey in a rapidly changing climate. Professor Virginie Millien, the study’s lead author, states, “We don't know how long they’ll be able to keep up. … At some point, their memory-based strategy may no longer work.”
funded a study this summer to understand hailstone growth and the forces affecting their fall, aiming to improve meteorologists’ ability to predict significant hailstorms.
Research published in Nature in 2024 indicates that while climate warming may reduce hailstorm frequency, hail size is expected to increase due to stronger updrafts. The National Science Foundation lblu
Sustainable Halloween Costumes
Dressing up for Halloween is a fun way for kids and adults to express themselves, try on new personalities or celebrate their favorite movie characters, but the merriment may come with a hefty environmental price tag. Too many of us buy ready-made, fast-fashion costumes, wear them once and throw them away. Store-bought costumes tend to be made with unsustainable materials such as plastic and polyester, which can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills, causing harmful microplastics to enter our waterways.
The eco-friendly alternative is to create a costume from items we already have or will use again. That means ditching the plastic, glitter and chemical-laden makeup. It is an opportunity to dial up our creativity and doit-yourself spirit.
• Check the closet, thrift stores and online marketplaces. Outgrown clothes can be
repurposed for a unique boho or witchy look. Layer items in unexpected combinations to make everyday garments take on new personalities. Mix colors. Add a vest. Tie a scarf around the head. Wear multiple hats and mismatched belts.
• Go natural for makeup or effects. Choose eco-friendly paints or natural dyes, including black tea, coffee, turmeric and paprika to color fabrics or decorate handmade, creative costumes. For witchy green skin, slather on a face mask. For rosy cheeks and lips, use a slice of beet to stain the skin. Blend vibrant, shimmery mineral powders for eyes, face or lips. Use eco-friendly face paint kits, such as those available at NaturalEarthPaint.com
• Use household items. Cardboard boxes embellished with foil scraps and reused lids make great robots, astronauts or knights in armor. A white sheet with
cut-out eyes is the quintessential ghost. Blankets and shower curtains can be fashioned into superhero capes.
• Swap or borrow. Get together with family and friends and choose from a pile of costumes from years gone by. Have fun tweaking them and making them new again.
• Handcraft a mask. Gather leaves, flowers, pinecones, feathers, acorns and other natural specimens, as well as paper bags, recycled paper, felt fabric and cardboard. Make a sturdy shape for the base of the mask and cut out an oval for the eyes, then glue the decorative elements. This is a great craft project for kids.
Eco-Friendly Costume Ideas
• Garden or Forest Fairy: Wear practice clothing from dance class and layer it with colorful scarves, fake plants, leaves and flowers. Cut wings out of poster board.
• Mother Nature: Wear something green and make a crown from pinecones, sticks or leaves.
• Bat or Owl: Make wings from an old umbrella and use fabric scraps for feathers.
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Salt FXs
Founded by Wilfredo and Alice Gordillo, Salt FXs, in Vineland, New Jersey, provides a carefully curated range of non-invasive therapies designed to promote balance, relaxation and overall wellness. With a professional yet welcoming environment, the center has become a destination for individuals seeking natural approaches to health that complement modern living.
Salt therapy, or halotherapy, has a long history of use in supporting respiratory health and overall rejuvenation. Guests that enter the Salt Cave breathe in finely dispersed salt particles that may help ease asthma, sinus issues, seasonal allergies and other respiratory concerns. The mineral-rich environment is also known to benefit skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Just as important, the calming atmosphere provides an opportunity to relieve stress, improve sleep and encourage a deeper sense of relaxation.
often leaving with a renewed feeling of lightness and improved well-being.
Salt FXs also incorporates innovative soundbased therapy. The Sage Space sound bed delivers low-frequency vibrations throughout the body, a method designed to quickly release tension and encourage deep relaxation. This therapy has been noted to support physical recovery, ease stress and create an overall sense of balance.
Under the Gordillos' leadership, Salt FXs has established itself as more than a wellness center. It is a professional space where clients feel supported in their health goals while experiencing therapies that are both restorative and enjoyable. Every detail—from the welcoming environment to the thoughtfully selected services—reflects a commitment to holistic care and client well-being.
For a more concentrated experience, the Salt Booth offers the same therapeutic benefits in a private, time-efficient setting. This option is especially appealing to individuals with busy schedules or those preferring a more personal session.
Beyond salt therapy, the center provides an Ionized Foot Soak, a relaxing treatment that draws toxins from the body through the feet. Guests appreciate both the gentle process and the visible results,
By offering a variety of natural therapies in one location, Salt FXs provides accessible options for individuals who want to integrate more balance into their daily lives. Whether addressing specific concerns such as allergies and skin conditions or simply looking for a reliable space to unwind, guests find professional care in a calming setting.
Salt FXs is located at 3471 S. Delsea Dr., in Vineland, NJ. For more information, visit www.SaltFXs.com.
The Venus Moon: Kristen Marinelli
The Venus Moon is far more than a crystal warehouse—it is a sacred meeting place where spirit, energy and community converge. Founded by Kristen “Krissy” Marinelli, The Venus Moon has quickly become a hub for those seeking deeper connection, healing and spiritual growth.
The Venus Moon will celebrate its third anniversary with a two-day festival from 1 to 8 p.m. on October 25 and noon to 5 p.m. on October 26, featuring more than 30 vendors, workshops, performances and plenty of surprises.
“When I first opened the warehouse, I wanted it to be a space where people could feel safe, inspired and connected—not just to crystals, but to themselves and to each other,” says Marinelli.
Described as a “permanent gem show,” the warehouse offers museum-grade specimens, carvings, jewelry and bulk bins of both polished and raw stones—all at gem show prices, without the need for a license or wholesale access. Yet, what sets The Venus Moon apart is the energy infused into the space. Every crystal is labeled not only with scientific details, but also with its metaphysical properties, making it accessible to both seasoned collectors and those just beginning their spiritual path.
“I’m very careful to vet all my sources. The crystals are tools,” she explains. “They carry a frequency, a vibration and when we work with them intentionally, they can help us realign with our highest selves. But at the heart of it all, it’s not just about the stones—it’s
about the healing, the awakening and the community that grows around them.”
That sense of community is further nurtured in its meeting space known as the Vortex Room. Here, up to 30 guests gather for sound bath meditations, yoga, vision board sessions, candle making and the popular Crystal Master Class. During these sessions, Marinelli not only teaches the science and history of crystals, but also guides participants through hands-on practices like creating crystal grids. The Venus Moon is also home to the Energetic Council, a network for local South Jersey lightworkers, healers and holistic practitioners to connect, collaborate and spread loving healing to others.
Her own journey is deeply intertwined with the story of The Venus Moon. Before opening the warehouse, she worked as a professional makeup artist. “From the time I was a child, though, I could feel the whispers of the unseen world, speaking often with spirits—including
my beloved grandmother,” says Marinelli. “My sensitivity was both a gift and a challenge, and as I grew older I developed crippling OCD and anxiety which no amount of conventional medicine or science seemed able to ease.”
Then one day, as if by divine timing, someone placed a tourmaline crystal in her hands. “The moment I touched it, I felt an instant, almost mystical connection to its energy—a grounding presence that awakened something deep and transformative within me and I knew I had to learn more.”
As The Venus Moon marks this milestone, Marinelli reflects with gratitude and excitement. “I’m incredibly grateful to my team and to our ever-growing community of amazing like-minded souls.”
The Venus Moon is located at 226 Chestnut St., Glendora. For more information, call 856-515-9460 or visit www.TheVenusMoon.com.
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Black Belt is a Beginning
An Aikido Lesson in Fortitude
Earning the rank of Black Belt in a traditional martial art is worth seeking. It should be difficult. It should require sacrifice over time and should never feel like something owed to someone for any reason.
I have to imagine that everyone that started their practice in martial arts had the distant goal of one day achieving a Black Belt. They may have even achieved it only to slowly lose their drive to keep going. If one was focusing solely on reaching Black Belt, they likely blocked out the value of the journey and are now left with nothing to hold on to continue. The person would be at the end of a proverbial rope and can’t see where else to go or how they can possibly go further. Rather than an ultimate end in itself, the Belt is our reminder that we are “in the game”. We are relied upon by others and have an obligation to continue to trust the process that brought us this far. It is the “polishing of the sword” that is the final step in forging that brings sharpness to the edge.
maintain our honest effort along with appreciation for the efforts of others will offer longterm accomplishments and lasting rewards.
In life’s journey, we hold on to memories of pitfalls overcome and are strengthened to continue with assurance to face the pitfalls ahead. Advice often given in the Dojo is to cultivate the mind of the beginner. When one started, one had a fresh approach. Our goals can motivate us and can also get in our way. Working continually to
The name given our Dojo is “Agatsu”, a term exerted from a saying cited by the founder of Aikido – Masakatsu Agatsu Katsu Hayabi –“Moment of Correct Victory over Self”. Each time we begin practice, we are reminded to clear our mind from outside distractions and focus on our active participation. Be open and responsive to the task. Don’t over analyze our expectations and performance. In Aikido, there is only competition with Self. While we may have started our journey full of expectations, we should decide quickly to allow ourself the opportunity to be a student and enjoy the journey. Earning a Black Belt is a worthwhile goal. Rather than focusing on the finish line in the race, be sure to make it to the starting line; stay on the path, reach the finish and keep going. With this mindset, we are reflecting a “Black Belt Mindset” that will serve us well in all life’s journeys.
Source: Kathy Crane Sensei, 7th Dan, Chief Instructor of Aikido Agatsu Dojos, located in Laurel Springs, NJ. For more information including on lessons and events, visit www.AikidoAgatsuDojos.com.
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Activating Neuroplasticity
The Brain's Ultimate Rewind Button
by Hannah Tytus
The brain has an amazing ability to rewire itself by strengthening, rerouting or growing new connections in response to learning, experience or injury. This continuous reshaping is known as neuroplasticity. The changes can be positive, such as regaining movement or speech after a stroke or learning a new skill. Sometimes they are neutral, and other times they can be harmful when maladaptive patterns reinforce chronic pain or anxiety. Fortunately, the brain can grow and adapt at any age, and there are many ways to help it thrive. Nourishing foods, mindful movement, meditation, social connection, clean air and restful sleep are everyday choices that can nurture the brain in powerful ways.
Neuroplasticity Across the Lifespan
It has long been believed that children’s brains are more malleable as they grow, and that once they reach adulthood, the brain stops evolving. But new research suggests that this may not be the full story. While the brains of developing children are certainly very adaptable, the adult brain is far from fixed.
A variety of influences, including stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, medications, environmental stimulation, learning and aging, can reshape how brain cells are built and function. These factors may trigger changes in the size or structure of brain regions, shift the brain’s chemical makeup, alter the shape of individual neurons and even rewire networks of connections, sparking the growth of new neurons in a process called neurogenesis.
Scientists have long known that injuries, chronic stress and the natural process of aging can take a toll on the brain. Yet, new discoveries in neuroscience and integrative medicine point to the remarkable potential for repair and renewal at every phase of life.
Healthy Fats
“Nutrition is the foundation of everything in health. You can’t build anything in the body without good food,” says Dr. Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist, researcher and author of Dementia Demystified: The Definitive Guide to Resurrecting Your Brain, Reversing Cognitive Decline and Regaining Your Memory. Contrary to decades of marketing campaigns for low-fat and fat-free diets, Toups explains, healthy fats are essential for brain health. The spongy white and grey matter of the brain, where all the thinking and messaging happens, is made primarily of fat.
Found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are some of the healthiest fats, increasing blood flow in the brain and nourishing its physical structures to help improve learning, memory and cognitive well-being.
Mindful Movement
“The most validated ways to support neuroplasticity are exercise and meditation—and both are free,” says Toups. Exercise is well-known to protect the brain and boost thinking skills. One way it may do this is by supporting the growth of new neurons and strengthening connections within the hippocampus, an area in the brain involved
in the formation of fresh memories and the recall of past experiences. A 2017 study published in Experimental Gerontology found that regular exercise significantly increased hippocampus volume, while nonactive participants showed a shrinking hippocampus.
In addition to strength and cardio training, exercise that incorporates mindful and creative components may enrich the benefits. Engaging the body and mind at the same time can strengthen neural networks and support long-term cognitive function. Long walks, yoga classes or playful sessions with the kids or grandchildren are excellent ways to support the link between body and brain. Studies show that tai chi, a mindful movement practice, may be even more effective than regular exercise in protecting cognitive function because it increases brain activation in regions associated with motor function and focus, and is accessible to those with mobility limitations.
Daily Meditation
A regular mindfulness practice supports neuroplasticity, making it easier to regulate emotions and handle stress. A 2024 review found that regular meditation can physically reshape the brain, strengthening areas tied to focus, emotional control and self-awareness. One reason for this is meditation’s effect on a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This molecule acts like fertilizer for brain cells, helping them grow, form new connections and remain healthy. Meditation increases BDNF, and higher levels of BDNF are linked not only to sharper
learning and memory, but also to longer lasting brain health.
Additional research has demonstrated that even a short daily meditation session can increase gray matter density in regions tied to learning, memory and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes help reduce stress reactivity and support long-term resilience. Even if formal seated meditation is not feasible, simple mindful presence can help. “I try to tell people to find small moments to come into their body, come into the moment and be present,” Toups advises. “You can do that by washing the dishes. You don’t need to sit in lotus position and chant for an hour.”
Creative Activities
“Every time you learn something new or do a novel task, you are promoting neuroplasticity,” explains Toups. Learning new skills, from juggling to speaking a new language, produces measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in brain matter volume. These changes can occur in both early-learning phases and long-term practice, underscoring the brain’s capacity for adaptation throughout life.
Making music and dancing can strengthen connections in the brain; even the act of listening to music has been shown to enhance neural plasticity and cognitive flexibility. Toups recommends rocking out to a favorite song in the kitchen and choreographing a few dance moves.
Restorative Sleep
Rapid eye movement (REM), a stage of sleep marked by increased brain activity and
vivid dreaming, plays an important role in neuroplasticity. During REM, the brain actively prunes unhelpful neural connections and reinforces others, supporting brain development, the learning of new skills and memory improvement.
To support consistent REM sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of shuteye and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time. A good night’s rest after learning a new skill or information can help that lesson integrate into the brain, supporting behavioral change.
Clean Air
Keeping the air in the home clean is important for overall brain health. Research suggests that mold toxicity may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, after researchers discovered traces of fungi inside the central nervous system of many Alzheimer’s patients—an infection that was absent in healthy individuals. Mold toxicity in the home can elicit an immune response and harm the brain. For example, a 2020 study found that black mold inhalation can cause inflammation in the hippocampus and reduce neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.
Practicing clean air habits can help assuage the risks of mold exposure at home. These include investing in an air purifier, ventilating regularly by opening windows, using exhaust fans and maintaining household ducts. Mold concerns can be investigated with a simple at-home testing kit, followed by professional testing and remediation, if needed.
Light Therapy
“Photobiomodulation is a powerful way to create neuroplasticity, both quickly and over the long term,” says Dr. Lew Lim, founder of the Vielight photobiomodulation (PBM) device, which has been studied in collaboration with universities and medical institutions, including the University of Toronto, Harvard Medical School and Mount Sinai Hospital.
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Three Ways To Boost Neuroplasticity Naturally
by Hannah Tytus
Meditate for 10 minutes. Sit down with eyes closed. Notice the breath and observe thoughts without judgment as they travel through the mind. Allow feelings of discomfort, frustration or impatience to come and go, knowing that they are part of the process that leads to increased self-awareness, enhanced emotional regulation and improved focus.
Get involved in the community. Join a crafting meet-up, group hiking excursion, dance class or volunteering event. Activities that allow us to socialize, move our bodies and learn new things are excellent for the brain.
Learn something new. Play a game, learn a new art form or read something challenging. Engaging the mind and body, such as moving our fingers while crafting, can help the brain forge new connections.
PBM, also called light therapy, uses gentle red or near-infrared light to stimulate brain cells, boost the energy-producing parts of cells known as mitochondria, improve blood flow and calm inflammation. “When we activate the mitochondria with PBM, the mitochondria actually release growth factors, which support growth of new cells in the brain,” Lim explains.
According to Lim, PBM may help the brain protect and repair its neurons, encourage the growth of new connections and support the clearing of harmful waste proteins linked to cognitive decline. He asserts that certain light pulse frequencies, such as 40 hertz, may also help tune brainwave patterns that are important for memory and learning. While most research so far has been in small human studies or animal models, the results suggest that regular PBM could strengthen the brain’s natural ability to adapt and rewire itself. Some people use PBM as part of a daily routine to keep their minds sharp, while others use it to heal from more serious brain injuries.
Finding Community
The brain is a living, adapting system that can grow
stronger, sharper and more resilient
at any age, and we can guide those changes.
Research shows that staying connected to others offers powerful protection for the brain. Older adults that feel lonely or spend long stretches without social contact face about a 50 percent higher risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, even when other health factors are taken into account. One long-term study found that memory and thinking skills declined 20 percent faster in those that reported feeling lonely.
Being socially active can help guard the brain against decline. For 25 years, the Northwestern University SuperAging Program has studied people in their 80s and beyond with nimble minds that work as well as people decades younger. Brain scans show that these study participants called SuperAgers do not exhibit the usual thinning of the brain’s outer layer normally seen with age, and one key area involved in attention and decision-making is thicker than even in middle-aged adults.
Under the microscope, SuperAger brain cells are larger, better connected and show fewer signs of Alzheimer’s damage or inflammation. These resilient individuals tend to be very social, valuing close relationships and staying engaged with others—habits that may work hand-in-hand with their unusually healthy brain structures to help protect thinking skills late in life.
Even a weekly coffee with a friend or joining a class can be powerful brain fuel. People with rich social lives, including those that regularly share time with friends, family and communities, tend to keep their minds sharper for longer.
An Evolving Brain
The brain is never truly fixed. It is a living, adapting system that can grow stronger, sharper and more resilient at any age, and we can guide those changes. Whether through movement, nutrition, light therapy, meditation or meaningful connection, every choice we make can help shape and rewire the mind for the better. The science is clear: it is never too late to nurture the brain’s potential. Embrace neuroplasticity as a lifelong journey and let each new day be an opportunity to learn, adapt and thrive.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and former writer at the National Institutes of Health. She also hosts “Root Shock”, a podcast exploring how cultural and systemic forces shape our understanding of health.
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Experiencing Brain Function Decline
A Comprehensive Approach Can Do Wonders
The brain is the control center of the body. It helps us think, remember, solve problems and even control emotions. When the brain is working well, we are able to focus, learn new things and enjoy life. However, sometimes the brain does not work as well as it should. This can lead to problems such as forgetfulness, confusion, lack of focus, brain fog and slow thinking. Poor brain function can be caused by many different factors including lifestyle habits, nutritional, health problems and the environment around us.
One of the biggest causes of poor brain function is an unhealthy diet. The brain needs proper fuel to work, just like a car needs the right kind of gas. Eating too much junk food, sugar, unhealthy oils and processed meals can damage brain cells and make it harder to focus.
On the other hand, foods that are rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and protein help keep the brain sharp. A lack of vitamins such as B12 and folate can also lead to tiredness and trouble thinking clearly. Insufficient exercise and fresh air can also impair brain function.
Sleep is another important factor for brain health. While we sleep, the brain repairs itself and stores information from the day. Without enough rest, the brain has trouble paying attention and solving problems. Over time, poor sleep can lead to memory loss and a higher risk of brain diseases. People with sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, often struggle with concentration during the day because their brains are not fully rested.
Medical conditions can also affect brain function. Diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity reduce blood flow to the brain, which makes it harder for brain cells to get the oxygen and nutrients they need. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety also interfere with clear thinking. More serious conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease, slowly damage the brain and cause longterm memory and thinking problems. Even trauma such as a concussion or head injury can cause problems with focus and memory.
Stress and harmful substances in the environment also play a role. When people are under constant stress, the body releases high levels of a hormone called cortisol. Too much cortisol over time can harm the part of the brain that controls memory and learning. Exposure to toxins such as heavy metals, pesticides, cigarette smoke or polluted air can also harm brain function. In addition, alcohol and drugs can damage brain cells and interfere with the way the brain communicates.
Finally, aging naturally affects brain performance. As people get older, the brain may shrink and some memory skills may slow down. However, not everyone experiences serious problems. Staying active, eating well and keeping the mind challenged with new activities can help slow down age-related decline.
After having lab work, a further evaluation to identify the root cause and factors that may be promoting a decline in brain function may be necessary. This includes
a comprehensive functional medicine 10-point plan to evaluate for:
• Food sensitivities
• Hormone balancing
• Neuro-inflammation
• Gut function
• Blood Circulation
• Environmental toxins
• Heavy metals
• Mycotoxins
• Lyme and co-infections
• Vitamin/mineral analysis
In summary, poor brain function can result from unhealthy habits, medical issues, stress or even aging. The good news is that many of these causes can be improved by identified the root causes and making healthier choices. Eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, managing stress and staying active can all help keep the brain working at its best.
Source: Allan Magaziner, DO, founder and director of the Magaziner Center for Wellness, in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. For more information or to make an appointment, call 856-424-8222, email MagazinerCenter@ DrMagaziner.com or visit DrMagaziner.com.
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—Marianne Williamson
Feeding Our Brain Power
What To Eat for Mental Acuity
by Maya Whitman
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in 10 adults aged 45 and older experience worsening memory loss or cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. A 2022 study in JAMA Neurology indicates that 22 percent of adults over age 65 experience mild cognitive impairment. Our dietary choices significantly impact brain longevity, and what we avoid is equally important.
The late pioneering researcher Dr. Martha Clare Morris developed the MIND Diet, which merges the Mediterranean and DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diets to enhance cognitive function with plenty of delicious versatility. A 2015
study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that strict adherence to the MIND Diet can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 53 percent, while moderate adherence can lower it by 35 percent.
The MIND Diet is a stress-free, lifelong plan with bountiful menu options, including fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil. It accommodates gluten-free and plant-based preferences. With satiating breakfast options like Greek yogurt or scrambled eggs, spicy chili for lunch and fun dinner burrito bowls, this diet is flexible and beginner-friendly, allowing for moderate consumption of pasta, potatoes
and bread, with a focus on whole-grain, complex carbohydrates over refined ones. It also recommends oven roasting instead of high-heat frying.
A Lifelong Investment
“You can never be too young to embrace brain-healthy dietary strategies in support of longevity. Early adoption of brain-healthy eating habits may also enhance cognitive reserve, strengthening the brain’s resilience to neuropathological damage over time,” says neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, founder and CEO of the Willeumier Center for Advanced Research in Neurotrauma & Brain Rehabilitation, in California.
Embracing variety is important. “I like to have people think of brain-healthy food groups, not superfoods,” states Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and author of The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food. Fenn notes that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men “for reasons that have nothing to do with living longer. Alzheimer’s can start in the brain up to 30 years before the first symptoms. It’s never too early or too late. Data shows that switching to a brain-healthy diet can have benefits even in one’s 70s.”
The Link Neuroscience Institute, in California, recommends eating more colorful berries, fatty fish such as sardines, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and a moderate amount of high-quality dark chocolate to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mood disorders, including long-term depression. They also advise against consuming processed and fried foods, sugar, alcohol and sodium.
Cutting Out the Culprits
According to Willeumier, even a modest reduction in the intake of processed foods, including packaged products, sweetened cereals, deli meats and sugary beverages,
can have a positive impact on brain health. She recommends the complete elimination of alcoholic beverages. “Neuroimaging studies, including the Whitehall II Study, which followed 550 participants over a 30year period tracking alcohol intake and cognitive performance, suggest that there is no protective effect of alcohol on the brain, even from light drinking. Eliminate
alcohol for the preservation of your longterm brain health.”
Certain foods accelerate brain aging, and Fenn recommends limiting or eliminating fast and fried foods, sugar, artificially sweetened drinks, ultra-processed products and foods that are excessively high in saturated fat like butter and some cheeses. Certain
cooking techniques are also problematic. “Frying, searing and grilling directly over high heat creates inflammatory particles called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs,” explains Fenn. “Think low-and-slow when you cook—low heat, slow cooking, braising, poaching, steaming and indirect grilling.”
Willeumier notes that these healthy eating habits can have an immediate effect on brain function by influencing neurotransmitter production, stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and improving cerebral blood flow, all of which can also help us to live longer, maintain our focus and thinking skills, and feel happier.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
PROTEIN-PACKED PANCAKES WITH WILD BLUEBERRIES
YIELD: 3 SERVINGS
1 cup old-fashioned, rolled oats
1 medium ripe banana
2 large eggs
½ cup cottage cheese (nonfat or whole), plus more for serving, optional
¼ cup water
½ cup almond, buckwheat, hazelnut or quinoa flour
¼ cup protein powder, optional
¼ cup hemp seeds, plus more for sprinkling
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp kosher salt
¾ cup frozen wild blueberries (about 1 Tbsp per pancake)
Yogurt to taste, optional
Fresh berries or mashed frozen berries for toppings, optional
Pure maple syrup, warmed, optional
Extra-virgin olive oil, drizzled
Place the oats in a blender until ground into a coarse flour with a texture like almond meal. Add the banana, eggs, cottage cheese and ¼ cup water and blend on high until smooth and no pieces of banana remain. Add the flour, protein powder, hemp seeds, baking powder, cinnamon and salt, in that order. Blend just until combined. Set aside while toppings are prepared.
Check the batter. If it is too thick to pour, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until it has a pourable consistency but not too thin—these should be thick, hearty pancakes.
Warm a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil, swirling to distribute evenly. Measure ¼ cup of batter for each pancake, about three per large skillet. Scatter 1 heaping tablespoon of blueberries over each pancake, pressing slightly so
they adhere. Cook until the underside is crispy and brown and the center is set, about 3 to 4 minutes. Using a rigid spatula, carefully flip the pancake and cook until golden brown on the other side and the center is dry, another 3 to 4 minutes.
Serve right away or transfer to a plate and place in the oven to keep warm. Repeat, using the remaining batter and berries. Serve hot, dollop with yogurt, a sprinkle of hemp seeds and more berries on top. Drizzle with maple syrup.
Store leftover pancake batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The batter will thicken as it sits, so thin with 1 teaspoon of water at a time.
Recipe courtesy of Annie Fenn.
SALMON AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
2 wild-caught salmon fillets
1 lb fresh asparagus, washed
2 Roma tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1 head butter lettuce, divided in half
½ lemon, sliced in two
1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped
1 Tbsp fresh or dried thyme leaves
Sprinkle of oregano
Himalayan salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
Place salmon in a baking dish and squeeze an even amount of lemon juice on each fillet. Season filets evenly with chopped garlic and thyme leaves. Add Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake salmon in the oven for 25 minutes.
Place asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Add Himalayan sea salt and black pepper to taste. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 15 minutes.
Serve salmon on a bed of butter lettuce with chopped Roma tomatoes, avocado and roasted asparagus on the side.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.
Courtesy Annie Fenn
—Maya Angelou
Stay Strong
Rewiring the Stress Response
Therapies To Restore Balance and Calm
by Marlaina Donato
White-knuckling our way through life can be exhausting, but more than that, chronic strain can negatively impact brain function and even alter its physical structure. Continually recurring stressors can lead to impaired memory, emotional dysregulation, anxiety disorders and depression. When the nervous system gets stuck on overdrive, the body delays a variety of critical functions, including immune response and tissue repair, in order to deal with perceived emergencies.
Over time, the amygdala, an area within our
brain that is responsible for processing fear and alerting us to danger, can become enlarged and hyperreactive, hardwiring us to be in a constant fight-or-flight mode. Prolonged stress of this nature can lead to excessive accumulation of cortisol in the brain, setting the stage for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Gently reprogramming an overstimulated nervous system can initiate and improve cellular repair, nutrient absorption, sounder sleep and more tranquil moods. Restoration of the body’s natural capacity for calm is possible through noninvasive, painless approaches such as sound healing, craniosacral therapy and certain forms of acupressure.
Sound-Enabled Relaxation
“When we are under stress all the time, the autonomic nervous system gets out of balance, and the body cannot heal itself as it is intended to do,” explains Gail Lynn, the author of Unlocking the Ancient Secrets to Healing and inventor of the Harmonic Egg, which uses light, color and sound to provide an immersive relaxation experience.
In 2007, she faced a cardiovascular health crisis at age 37, which she attributes to three successive challenging careers and a stressful personal life over the span of many years. Lynn explored a number of alternative solutions, and with full-body sound-and-light
sessions experienced a profound shift in her health and well-being. She attests that resetting her nervous system enabled her body to heal itself, making her life “100 percent better”.
Modern sound therapy has ancient roots in cultures worldwide. The use of tuning forks, therapeutic gongs, singing bowls, mantras, percussive hand instruments and binaural beats has been shown to synchronize brainwaves in a process called brainwave entrainment, resulting in a lowered stress response. Harvard Health notes that soothing tones can lower elevated blood pressure and promote healthier heart and respiratory rates, alleviating burden on the autonomic nervous system.
Restoring Internal Rhythms
Another way to switch off a state of perpetual survival mode is to restore balance to the vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and most of the digestive tract. “Seventy percent of the traffic on the vagus nerve goes from the organs to the brain. Only 30 percent of the traffic goes from the brain to the organs, so it is much more a situation of the gut controlling the brain,” explains Tim Hutton, a craniosacral therapist and Upledger Institute instructor in Bellingham, Washington. Hutton underscores that the body can recuperate once it is able to shift out of fight-flight-or-freeze mode and into the ventral vagal state of rest-and-digest.
Developed by John E. Upledger in the 1970s, craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle bodywork modality that seeks to restore
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the natural functioning of the membranes and fluids surrounding the spinal cord and brain. “There is a subtle, rhythmic motion of the tissue that we call the craniosacral rhythm that is easily disrupted. Any tension or compromise in the body’s ability to function will adversely affect the craniosacral rhythm,” says Hutton. “As a therapist, I support the client’s healing process and let their body lead.” CST releases tension in the craniosacral system, shifting the body to the rest-and-digest mode and enhancing vagus nerve function.
A 2020 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine of patients with complex traumas, including post-traumatic stress disorder, reported improvements in quality of life after receiving a combination of CST and psychotherapy. A 2023 randomized clinical trial published in Behavioral Sciences involving 57 healthy firefighting cadets showed a reduction of the stress hormone cortisol in participants that received CST sessions for five consecutive weeks.
Auricular Acupuncture
Stress and anxiety contribute to insomnia, which can cause even more stress. With roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, auricular therapy involves the stimulation of 120 acupoints in the ear that correspond to the nervous system and certain other parts of the body. The therapy is believed to positively influence neurotransmitter activity, which facilitates the communication between brain cells, while also enhancing neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize
and adapt by forming new neural pathways.
A 2023 systematic meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Sleep reported that auricular acupressure can be beneficial for insomnia. Ear seeds, a type of ear acupressure without needles, have also shown promise for anxiety and insomnia.
Persistence Is Key
By applying any one or a combination of
these therapies, it is possible to experience more balance and calm. If a particular modality does not bring about the desired stress relief, persist with another. “There is always hope,” says Hutton. “Most often, miracles are incremental.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
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Meditation, Yoga and Brain Health
The Science Behind the Practice
Meditation and yoga have long been practiced for cultivating peace, focus and spiritual connection. Today, scientific research confirms these ancient practices are also powerful tools for protecting and strengthening the brain.
The brain is not fixed; it is dynamic and adaptable—a quality known as neuroplasticity. With consistent practice, meditation and yoga can literally reshape its structure and function. A Harvard Medical School study in 2011 entitled “Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging” reported that using MRI scans found that only eight weeks of mindfulness meditation increased gray matter density in the hippocampus, the region tied to learning and memory, while reducing density in the amygdala, the brain’s stress and fear center.
Meditation reduces activity in the Default Mode Network (DMN), a brain system associated with rumination and self-criticism. This creates more space for clarity and presence. Yoga deepens these benefits by combining mindful breath, posture and movement. Controlled breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, balancing the nervous system, lowering cortisol levels and supporting the release
of calming neurotransmitters like GABA. Together, yoga and meditation can cultivate emotional stability, sharper focus and a greater sense of resilience.
These benefits go beyond daily peace of mind. Over time, meditation and yoga may preserve memory, improve attention span and even protect against cognitive decline as we age. Research also links these practices to lower inflammation, improved sleep and stronger emotional regulation—all key factors for long-term brain vitality.
Daily mantras are simple yet powerful tools to support neuroplasticity by reinforcing positive thought patterns. To start our day with clarity and intention, try this mantra:
For those looking for one simple, portable ritual that pays real dividends for mood, focus and long-term brain health, consider using Kirtan Kriya—the Kundalini meditation that repeats the sounds “Sa Ta Na Ma” with matching fingertip taps. It’s short, grounded and wildly practical.
How to do it (12 minutes, anywhere)
1. Seat & spine: Sit tall. Soften the jaw.
2. Mudra cycle: With each syllable, touch thumb to…
• SA → index, TA → middle, NA → ring, MA → pinky. Keep the tapping slow and steady.
3. Voice pattern (the classic timing):
• Two minutes out loud
• Two minutes whisper
• Four minutes silent (hear it in one’s mind)
• Two minutes whisper
• Two minutes out loud
4. Gaze & attention: Light inner focus at the brow. If attention wanders, come back to sound and fingertips and breath.
5. Close: Sit quietly for 30 to 60 seconds and notice how one feels.
Think of it as neuro reps: sound, touch, breath—repeat—so our nervous system learns being calm on cue. If one is pressed for time, cut it in half and do the practice for six minutes—two minutes out loud, two in a whisper and two silent.
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Why it works (the science, in plain English)
Sharper mood and cognition in eight weeks: In a randomized trial of family dementia caregivers, a study showed that 12 minutes per day of Kirtan Kriya improved mood and cognitive performance and increased telomerase (a cellular aging marker) compared with relaxation music).
Better blood flow to key brain hubs: An eight-week Kirtan Kriya program showed improved neuropsychological scores and increased cerebral blood flow in regions tied to memory and attention (e.g., prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate.
Connects the calm network: Related yoga/meditation studies show shifts in resting-state connectivity (Default Mode Network), which maps to less rumination and clearer presence—exactly what many of us are training for.
Easy, teachable, reproducible: Clinicians often point to Kirtan Kriya because it’s low-cost, scalable and feasible for people under stress or with subjective memory complaints—groups at higher risk for cognitive decline.
Do this most days and we are not just easing today’s stress—we are training a more resilient brain for the years ahead. Give it a week and feel the difference. While the data shows measurable benefits in brain structure and function, the lived experience is just as powerful—calmness, clarity and a deeper sense of connection.
Source: Cheryl Van Sciver, E-RYT 200, E-RYT 500, YACEP and co-founder of Balanced Planet Yoga, in Marlton, NJ. For more information, visit BalancedPlanetYoga.com.
Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.
—Jim Bishop
Emotional Wellness After Cancer
Mindfulness and Movement as Healing Paths
by Anna Lipkin
Life after breast cancer often brings unexpected challenges. Even when medical treatment has ended, many survivors discover that healing the heart and mind can be just as important as restoring physical health. Feelings of anxiety, uncertainty or lingering fear are common. The body may be in remission, but the emotional journey continues.
Mindfulness and movement practices offer powerful ways to support this stage of recovery. By bringing awareness to the present moment, mindfulness helps survivors acknowledge emotions without judgment and gently redirect the mind away from fear and toward peace. When paired with movement practices such as yoga, tai chi and qigong, mindfulness becomes embodied—providing a path to both emotional balance and physical renewal.
Research consistently shows that physical activity can significantly improve quality of life after breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, women that engage in regular physical activity after diagnosis may lower their risk of recurrence by up to 30 percent. Movement improves circulation, supports lymphatic flow, reduces fatigue and helps manage treatment-related side effects such as neuropathy and joint stiffness. Gentle exercise also boosts energy, enhances sleep quality and strengthens immune function—all of which are vital for long-term recovery.
Yoga, in particular, has been shown to reduce inflammation markers in breast cancer survivors while improving flexibility and core strength. Tai chi and qigong emphasize slow, flowing movements that gently stretch and strengthen muscles while enhancing balance. These are low-impact modalities, making them safe and sustainable for individuals at varying stages of recovery.
Equally important are the mental health benefits of mindful movement. Studies reveal that survivors that practice yoga or tai chi regularly report decreased anxiety, improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression. Movement encourages a reconnection with the body, helping survivors rebuild trust and confidence after the physical toll of surgery and treatment.
Mindful movement also provides a natural release for emotional stress. The gentle rhythm of breath coordinated with
movement allows tension stored in the body to dissolve, creating space for calm and clarity. Survivors often describe these practices as a way to “come home” to themselves—finding stability in both body and mind.
When mindfulness is woven into movement, the benefits expand even further. Beginning a yoga session with guided breathing or ending a tai chi practice with a short meditation deepens the sense of integration. These rituals not only support emotional regulation, but also foster resilience, patience and self-compassion—qualities that make the journey of survivorship more balanced and empowering.
Emotional recovery after breast cancer does not follow a straight line. Yet mindfulness and movement can serve as steady companions, offering tools to navigate the ups and downs with strength and grace. By combining physical activity with mindful awareness, survivors nurture the whole self—body, mind and spirit.
In doing so, they create a foundation not just for recovery, but for thriving. With each mindful breath and intentional step, the journey forward becomes one of resilience, renewal and hope.
Source: Anna Lipkin, wellness writer and mindfulness advocate, shares integrative approaches to healing, emphasizing movement, self-care and community as essential pathways to wholeness.
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5 Simple Movement Practices for Survivors
Healing after breast cancer is about more than the body—it’s about restoring balance, peace and confidence. These gentle practices can be done at home and adapted for any level of energy or mobility. Always consult with one’s physician before beginning a new exercise routine.
1. Breath-Centered Stretching
Begin each day with five minutes of slow, intentional stretching while focusing on deep, steady breaths. This simple ritual helps improve flexibility and reduce morning stiffness.
2. Supported Child’s Pose (Yoga)
Resting in Child’s Pose with a pillow or bolster under the chest gently opens the back and shoulders while calming the nervous system. It’s a restorative posture that encourages release and relaxation.
3. Walking Meditation
A slow walk—whether in the neighborhood, a park or indoors—becomes mindful when paired with focused breathing. Each step can be seen as an opportunity to release stress and invite peace.
4. Seated Tai Chi Flow
Even from a chair, slow, circular arm movements combined with steady breathing improve circulation, promote lymphatic flow and reduce tension.
5. Journaling with Movement Reflection
After practicing yoga or gentle exercise, take a few minutes to jot down how the body feels. This simple act of mindful reflection strengthens the mind-body connection and builds self-awareness.
Strong at Any Age
Embracing Resistance Training During Menopause
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, bringing with it numerous physiological changes that can affect health, mobility and quality of life. Among these changes, declines in muscle mass, bone density and balance present particular challenges. Research suggests that resistance training is a safe and effective strategy to counteract these effects.
For women navigating perimenopause and menopause, it is not just a savvy fitness choice, but a crucial intervention to improve strength, balance, lean muscle mass and bone health, thereby reducing the risk of falls and injuries while supporting healthy aging.
Physiological Challenges of Menopause
Perimenopause can last for two to 10 years leading up to menopause, which is officially
marked by 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and involves a natural decline in estrogen production. This hormonal shift accelerates loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis), both of which are critical factors for maintaining physical function and preventing injury.
“Once in menopause, we lose muscle and bone mass at a faster rate, so strength training helps counteract that loss,” explains Dr. Brenda Heinecke, physical therapist and pelvic floor specialist based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Muscle weakness and decreased balance increase the risk of falls, a leading cause of injury in older adults, while reductions in lean body mass slow metabolism and contribute to weight gain.
Benefits of Resistance Training
Resistance training, also known as strength training, involves exercises that cause muscles to contract against an external force such as weights, resistance bands or body weight. Unlike aerobic exercise, which primarily benefits cardiovascular health, resistance training specifically targets muscle and bone strength.
A 2023 systematic review of 12 randomized controlled trials involving more than 800 women, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, reported that resistance training improved musculoskeletal health in menopausal women, highlighting its positive effects on muscle mass, bone density and functional outcomes like balance and mobility.
The authors noted that resistance training could effectively combat the muscle and bone loss accelerated by menopause, contributing to better overall health and reduced risk of fractures. They also found strength training to be positively associated with hormonal and metabolic improvements in menopausal women, including stabilized blood pressure and a reduction of hot flashes compared to inactive women in the studies.
Hip Strength and Fall Prevention
The hips play a vital role in balance and mobility, but hip strength diminishes significantly during menopause, affecting gait stability and increasing the likelihood of falls. A 2023 article in the Iranian Journal of Public Health reported on a Korean study of postmenopausal women that performed a variety of resistance exercises to target the large muscle groups of the lower body,
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including a band lateral walk, one-leg deadlift, side-lying hip abduction and squat deceleration, over the span of four weeks. The group that performed these resistance exercises significantly improved their gluteal muscle strength.
Lean Body Mass and Metabolic Health
Menopause-related declines in estrogen also contribute to reductions in lean body mass and increases in fat mass, which can negatively impact metabolism, insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. “Strength training not only helps increase muscle and bone mass, but it helps with other common issues of menopause such as cardiovascular disease; insulin resistance; and impairments to mood, cognitive function and sexual health,” Heinecke remarks. Resistance training helps to preserve and increase lean muscle mass, which in turn supports a healthy metabolic rate and reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes.
A 2023 BMC Women’s Health study of premenopausal women highlights that maintaining lean body mass through resistance exercise helps mitigate common menopausal symptoms such as weight gain and fat redistribution.
Balance and Functional Independence
Balance naturally deteriorates with age due to changes in the nervous system and muscle function. The 2023 review in Journal of Clinical Medicine reinforces that resistance training not only strengthens muscles, but also improves neuromuscular coordination, which is critical for maintaining balance and preventing falls. Exercises such as squats, lunges and step-ups challenge
both strength and balance systems, making them ideal components of a menopausal fitness program.
Starting a Resistance Training Program
Given its benefits, resistance training should be a cornerstone of menopausal health routines. However, many women may feel uncertain about how to begin or fear injury.
“My personal recommendation would be to join a fitness class or hire a personal trainer for a few sessions,” shares Victoria Morse, a certified fitness instructor in Kona, Hawaii.
“For most people, lasting change can be hard to achieve alone—they need accountability. Once we accept this truth, our chance of success increases dramatically.”
For those that are ready to add strength training to their routine, begin with light resistance and focus on proper technique, gradually increasing weight or resistance as strength improves. Aim for two to three sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups with these exercises:
• Squats, lunges and step-ups for lower body and hip strength
• Push-ups or chest presses for upper body
• Rows and shoulder presses for back and shoulders
• Core stabilization exercises such as planks or medicine ball rotations
Menopause introduces complex challenges, but resistance training offers a scientifically supported solution to some of the most significant concerns: loss of hip strength, balance and lean body mass. For women facing menopause, lifting weights or using resistance bands is more than just a fitness trend; it is an essential strategy to maintain mobility, independence and vitality for years to come.
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.
Fuel the Mind
Yoga Inside Out
by Kavita Patel, PT, DPT, MHA
When we think of health, we often picture strong muscles, healthy hearts and active bodies. Yet, our brain—the command center of it all—deserves just as much care. The good news: Nurturing the mind doesn’t require running marathons or lifting heavy weights. Gentle, intentional movement and mindful breathing can be just as powerful for brain health.
Yoga, a practice that beautifully blends body, breath and awareness, offers a holistic pathway to support mental well-being. Far beyond stretching or chanting, yoga is like nourishment for the nervous system. With practices like asana (movement), pranayama (breathwork)
and dhyana (meditation), yoga helps sharpen focus, soothe stress and bring balance to both body and mind. Modern research is now affirming what yogis have known for centuries: how we move and breathe can reshape the brain in meaningful ways.
1. Shaping the Brain with Yoga
Studies show yoga increases gray matter in areas linked to memory, focus and emotional balance. This means a steadier, more adaptable mind—one that can handle life’s ups and downs with greater ease.
2. A Natural Stress Reliever
Stress is one of the greatest threats to brain health. Over time, high cortisol levels can affect memory and mood. Yoga’s calming influence activates the parasympathetic nervous system—our body’s “rest and restore” mode—helping us release tension and feel safe. Gentle practices like restorative yoga, alternate nostril breathing and Nidra yoga invite deep rest and peace.
3. Clarity and Presence
Each yoga pose calls us into the moment. By focusing on breath and movement, the mind quiets, leaving less space for worry or distraction. This simple act of presence builds clarity, mindfulness and resilience—on and off the mat.
4. Restful Sleep, Rested Mind
Good sleep is the brain’s way of renewing itself. Yoga can improve sleep quality, help us drift off faster and deepen our rest. An evening sequence of forward folds, gentle twists, legs up the wall and mindful breathing can ease the transition into dreamland.
5. Building Emotional Resilience
Through yoga, we learn to pause, breathe and respond rather than react. Over time, this practice strengthens emotional intelligence and helps us face challenges with compassion and grace. Many find yoga uplifts their mood, eases anxiety and fosters a greater sense of self-connection.
Yoga is so much more than physical exercise—it’s a gift for the mind. Every mindful breath, every pose, every moment of awareness builds strength and calm from the inside out. It’s accessible, adaptable and deeply nourishing. Care for our brain and body and together they will care for us.
Dr. Kavita Patel, PT, DPT, MHA, of Aura
Physical Therapy & Wellness, with more than a decade of experience, specializes in holistic rehabilitation, blending clinical expertise with compassionate care. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.AuraPTW.com.
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Toddler-Friendly Mindfulness Activities
Simple and Interactive Games To Nurture a Developing Mind
by Christina Connors
Temper tantrums, bedtime battles and outsized feelings may occasionally overwhelm a toddler. Although such outbursts are a normal part of growing up, they represent a child’s attempt to work through and communicate their emotions. Whether these episodes happen at home or in the shopping mall, it can certainly feel uncomfortable for the child, the parents and nearby witnesses.
Mindfulness practices designed for toddlers can help little ones navigate unsettling feelings and situational challenges while supporting their developing brains. Rambunctious youngsters may not be able to sit still and meditate yet, but they will likely engage in games and activities that strategically teach emotional regulation skills.
The Science Behind Little Minds
A 2024 randomized study published in Cerebral Cortex reveals just how powerful mindfulness can be for developing brains. After analyzing brain imaging from 68 participating children, the researchers discovered that the kids that engaged in mindfulness activities exhibited measurable positive impacts in completing executive-function tasks and were better behaved than the control group.
“This research matters because during the toddler years, the brain is rapidly forming connections, especially in areas related to emotional regulation, attention and empathy,” says Dr. Yasmine Saad, a psychologist and founder of Madison Park Psychological Services, in New York City. “Mindfulness strengthens these neural pathways. When toddlers pause to notice their breath or sensations, they’re practicing self-awareness and impulse control, skills that form the foundation for emotional intelligence later in life.”
Mindfulness for Toddlers
Forget about sitting cross-legged in silence. Mindfulness for toddlers is about creating moments of awareness through their natural language of play. Moments of presence can be sprinkled into a child’s day by prompting them to notice their breath during a fun game, guiding them to recognize emotions through storytelling and building body awareness with movement.
“When it comes to teaching mindfulness and presence with young children, it is about connection, not perfection,” says Lee Sowles, founder and CEO of Kind Mind, a company that provides social-emotional learning curriculums for early childhood and elementary-aged children (ages 0 to 12 years). “We encourage a model-to-teach approach, so practicing yourself—in moments of
chaos, triggers and calm—is the best way to teach and guide your children to develop healthy regulation strategies.” Sowles shares these simple techniques:
Sensory-Based Approaches
• Listening Games: Have toddlers close their eyes and identify different sounds around them, both inside and outside the room. Surprise them by asking if they can hear sounds inside their own bodies.
• Texture Exploration: To develop mindful touching, ask kids to close their eyes and then place various items in their hands, prompting them to identify what those trinkets and textures are. Another fun game is to have kids rub their hands together really fast, then stop. Ask them to describe what they feel, offering suggestions such as heat, tingling or coolness.
Visual Tools
• Calm Down Jars: Fill a clear jar about three-quarters full with warm water; stir in two tablespoons of clear glue and one to two teaspoons of eco-friendly glitter. Top off with warm water, leaving a little space at the top, and close with a water-tight
lid. Toddlers can shake the jar and watch the glitter settle. This is a wonderful way to visually illustrate the process of calming down.
• Breathing Buddies: To help young children feel their breath moving, place a stuffed animal on their belly while they are in a reclined position. Invite them to take deep breaths and ask them to describe what is happening to their beloved toy as they breathe in and out.
Movement-Based Activities
• Slow-Motion Walking: Practice walking as slowly and deliberately as possible, and have the toddlers notice every movement. Do they feel the floor under their bare feet? Can they hear their knees?
• Body Awareness: Guide children to tighten and relax different parts of their bodies, head to toe. For example, ask them to scrunch their faces tightly for three seconds, then relax, feeling the muscles melting.
The Ripple Effect on Families
When toddlers learn these early mindfulness skills, the benefits extend to the entire family. Parents report feeling more confident when handling challenging behaviors, and siblings often naturally imitate the techniques.
Mindfulness can be woven into daily activities or mundane chores. “Turn waiting in line into a what-do-you-see-and-hear game,” Saad suggests. “Make toothbrushing
a chance to notice tastes and sensations. Even a one-minute pause before meals to take a breath and say something you’re grateful for can help a child’s brain and body learn to reset. Small, consistent moments are what create lasting habits.”
Getting Started
Begin with 30- to 60-second activities and gradually increase the duration as toddlers develop their attention span. All of the mindfulness activities should feel playful— like games, rather than formal meditation. Remember to model the behavior. Toddlers learn best through imitation. Be consistent. Regular practice, even if it involves brief moments, is more effective than longer, infrequent sessions. Follow the child’s lead. If a toddler is not responding to one technique, try another. Every child is unique and will connect with their preferred activities. Test them out and have fun with them.
Christina Connors is a writer, keynote singer and head of music and social-emotional learning integration for the Kind Mind Education Program. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
Smart Devices for Pets
Integrating Technology Into Daily Routines
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Advancements in technology are improving the daily lives of pets and their people. From collars equipped with global positioning systems (GPS) to wearable devices that monitor behavior and detect potential health shifts, these innovations are transforming the way we interact with our animal companions. Before embracing smart devices, however, pet parents should be informed about their potential benefits and limitations.
Location Trackers
GPS trackers attached to pet collars are gaining popularity, especially for active or escape-prone animals. Using satellite or cellular signals to continuously monitor a pet’s location, these devices help pet owners quickly locate stray companions.
A 2021 study conducted at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, revealed that the radiation exposure experienced by pets from GPS and Bluetooth devices is well below international safety standards, implying that adverse health effects are unlikely. The study also noted that adjusting how often a tracking device sends location data can influence a pet’s exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). For example, some devices transmit only every few hours when the pet is resting, but switch to every minute or every few seconds during periods of high activity. To further minimize RF-EMF exposure, the researchers recommend using a harness-mounted tracking device instead of a collar-mounted one.
In addition to GPS technology, microchips can serve as a reliable backup identification method. A microchip is a permanent form of identification implanted under the pet’s skin,
usually between the shoulder blades. It cannot track a pet’s real-time location but stores a unique number linked to the owner’s contact details. If scanned at a clinic or shelter, it can help reunite lost pets with their owners.
Health Monitors
Although they do not replace veterinary care, health trackers can support early intervention and informed veterinary conversations. Certain devices monitor behaviors such as scratching, licking, shaking, sleeping and resting. They compare this data to the pet’s usual habits or population averages. Sudden changes may indicate discomfort and prompt further attention. Data from health trackers helps veterinarians and pet parents confirm concerns about allergies, anxiety or appetite changes.
These devices can be useful in busy or multipet homes. Owners may miss subtle changes, whereas trackers are capable of detecting them. The historical data can help veterinarians see patterns over time. Still, the data needs context, as not every change signals an illness. Environmental shifts, routine disruptions or the natural progression of aging can also impact an animal’s behavior. Trackers flag what is different, but they do not explain why.
While pet health trackers can provide valuable behavioral insights, metabolic estimates such as calorie burn should be interpreted with caution. A 2023 study published by AVMA Publications evaluated the accuracy of a popular dog activity monitor. The study of 23 healthy dogs over a 28-day period found that the monitor failed to accurately measure the dogs’ calorie expenditures. Notably, the device overestimated the calorie needs of most of the dogs, even when their
Oksana Latysheva from oksanavectorart/CanvaPro
body weights remained stable throughout the study period. While these devices can be useful for tracking trends and identifying changes, pet owners should exercise caution when using them to make dietary decisions.
Automatic Feeders
Feeding routines are crucial components of many pet health plans, particularly for animals experiencing food sensitivities, chronic illness or weight concerns. Smart feeders can automate portion control, meal timing and consistency. For veterinarian-guided weight-loss plans that rely on controlled food and calories intake, it is imperative to select devices that can deliver multiple daily feedings in precise, small portions. Most smart feeders work well for dry kibble. Some models feature sealed trays, microchip-activated lids or cooling compartments, making them suitable for wet or home-cooked meals.
Smart feeders can help maintain consistency and promote healthy habits but should not be considered standalone solutions for diet-related health concerns. They are most effective
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when integrated into a clinical feeding plan under the guidance of a veterinarian. This approach ensures that calorie needs are met, a healthy weight is maintained and potential dietary risks are minimized.
Smart Device Limitations
Smart pet technology can provide valuable insights into a pet’s daily habits, but it is essential to understand its limitations. These devices are not diagnostic tools. They cannot test for allergens, run lab work or evaluate physical symptoms. Their primary function is to serve as early warning systems, flagging subtle changes that pet parents might otherwise miss. It is important to refrain from solely relying on technology. Misinterpreting data can lead to unnecessary worry or delayed medical attention. Real observation and professional input remain indispensable.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
LuckyBusiness from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Olga Stock/CanvaPro
Connecting Community With Yogic Tradition:
Kula Kamala Ashram Offers Universal Teachings and Restorative Practices
by Trella Dubetz
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Berks County, Pennsylvania, Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram is quietly reshaping what it means to live a spiritual life in today’s world. More than just a local yoga center, the ashram serves as a nonprofit sanctuary for both local and global communities, supports meaningful causes, fosters creative solutions and encourages inclusive spiritual exploration.
“We are an interfaith, inclusive space rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma—a universal perspective of truth, goodness, service and nonviolence. The work we do is summoned by our sincere calling to make the world a little more welcoming, a little less intimidating, and life more radiant and
peaceful,” explains Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati, affectionately known as SwaminiJi. Founded in 2015 by SwaminiJi and her husband, Ed RamaChandra Allitt (now deceased), the ashram is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, with offerings available both in person and online.
One of the ashram’s most beloved offerings is chanting—a practice rooted in yogic tradition. “The music and mantras are filled with messages of love and peace,” SwaminiJi observes. “We teach mantra from the beginning. We start with the history, work through the pronunciation and cultivate the bhav, the sweetest intention of devotion.” SwaminiJi personally leads the chanting training programs, which focus on either a traditional
method called veda or a more modern approach. “When we chant, we witness people relax—their faces and nervous systems soften. It’s transformative physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” Chanting is offered both online and in person.
For those seeking an in-person experience, the ashram offers wellness and themed retreats, professional trainings in leadership and yoga and serene outdoor spaces—including a koi pond, meditation path and labyrinth, library and several spots for personal quiet time. “Mindfulness and quietude are important.” SwaminiJi emphasizes. “Our silent retreats, offered by donation twice yearly, provide people an opportunity to explore both.”
The ashram is deeply committed to sustainable living and is increasingly off-grid. The original structure was built in 1932, with an additional wing added in 1954. Since acquiring the property, SwaminiJi has overseen the installation of HVAC units to offset heating oil use; a solar system that generates up to 130 percent of the ashram’s energy needs; two geodesic greenhouses and 54 outdoor raised garden beds to support food production; and a café that serves wholesome, gluten-free, vegan food, offered by donation.
“The human heart is constantly looking for ways to heal through connection—with ourselves, with Source and with each other. We serve others to ease the incessant searching and empower the actual discovery,” SwaminiJi reflects. “May there be more places of peace, more spaces for healing.”
Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram stands as a powerful reminder of our inherent potential as humans to explore, rediscover and empower spiritual growth, purpose and unity.
For more information about Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati and Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, located at 17 Basket Rd. in Reading, call 484-509-5073 ext. 1 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org.
Trella Dubetz is a trauma-informed bodyworker, holistic and human design practitioner, graphic designer and writer based in Lancaster County. She blends creativity with healing practices to support personal transformation. Connect with her at TrellaDubetz.com.
October 12, 2025
Doubletree by Hilton, Cherry Hill, NJ WWW.NJ.HHHEXPO.COM
—Yoko Ono
The Origin of Modern Pranic Healing
by Michael Borokhovsky
In gratitude to my spiritual teacher, Master Choa Kok Sui.
Master Choa Kok Sui (MCKS) was born in 1952 into a wealthy Chinese family in the Philippines. He studied chemical engineering and became involved in the family business. From an early age, he realized he had a gift for healing, but he was not satisfied with intuitive healing alone; he sought to understand how and why it works. To pursue this goal, he established the Institute for Inner Studies, a research organization dedicated to studying the principles of energy healing.
At the time, healing was regarded as an art, not a science. He aimed to develop an energy healing system based on scientific methodologies for healing different body ailments. His research encompassed numerous healing systems known throughout history, both ancient and modern. These included Shamanic healing, Amazonian healing, Rosicrucian healing, reiki, yogic healing, magnetic healing, as well as traditions from ancient Hindu, Kabbalistic, Christian, Egyptian and other practices. This endeavor was a monumental task, involving the processing of a vast amount of information to distil common healing principles and synthesize them into a system that is easy to learn, apply and teach. He envisioned that an ordinary person, not necessarily a naturally gifted healer, could practice it and produce consistent results. A systematic, logical system of Pranic Healing was born. In my opinion, modern Pranic Healing is to energy healing what a periodic table of elements is to science.
For years, facilitated by guided clairvoyance, MCKS and his associates observed the energy processes of the human body, comparing healthy organisms with sick ones. They noted what happens to the energy during digestion, sweating, urinating and bowel movements, among other activities. After thousands of experiments, they identified specific energies that aid digestion,
breathing, musculoskeletal movements, as well as cardiovascular and other functions. For instance, they compared the energy imprint of healthy organs with that of diseased organs, analyzing individuals with fevers alongside healthy individuals, and contrasting healthy livers with those affected by hepatitis. This research allowed them to develop protocols to transform the energy of a sick organ to resemble that of a healthy one. When the energy is balanced and healthy, the physical body tends to align with that state. It expedites its innate ability to heal itself.
After years of experimentation, hundreds of protocols were published in 1987 in the first MCKS book The Ancient Science and Art of Pranic Healing, later changed to Miracles Through Pranic Healing which serves as the textbook for the Level One Pranic Healing Course. Thousands more protocols followed in the Advanced Pranic Healing book. The Pranic Healing approach to addressing psychological and emotional conditions was detailed in Pranic Psychotherapy. In just over 30 years, MCKS Pranic Healing has gained popularity worldwide, practiced by millions.
Visit our Pranic Healing booth at the Holistic Health & Healing Expo from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 12 at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, at 2349 Marlton Pike W., in Cherry Hill, NJ. For information on courses taught by Michael Borokhovsky, email PranicHealing@comcast.net or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 11AM-5PM
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON CHERRY HILL, NJ
SPONSORED BY
Nutritional Wellness Center
Welcome!
Sponsors …
THE NUTRITIONAL WELLNESS CENTER
We proudly welcome the Nutritional Wellness Center (NWC) as a key Holistic Health & Healing Expo sponsor. Dr. Sean and his team have treated highly complex cases for over a decade. From autoimmune disorders to digestion disorders, hormonal imbalances and more, NWC employs methods that uncover the exact root cause of all symptoms affecting the mind, body and spirit. Their comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of your health is overlooked.
At NWC, they understand the frustration of unresolved health issues that conventional models often cannot resolve. Each member of their team has personally experienced these challenges, and this personal connection is the driving force behind their passion for offering natural and effective healing solutions.
Using functional medicine, Chinese medicine, Neuro-Emotional Technique, pranic healing, theta healing, reiki, and state-of-the-art therapies like Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field (PEMF), Red Light, Exercise with Oxygen and Halo salt therapy, NWC dives deeper into healing to help each person reach optimal states of health.
For more information, call Nutritional Wellness Center, 856-499-2160 or visit www.NWCNJ.com
LIFEWAVE
As a proud sponsor of the Holistic Health & Healing Expo, LifeWave’s X39 Light Therapy Patch, a patented wellness device, is transforming the way we approach healing and healthy aging. This cutting-edge technology, shared by local brand partners Renee Wehnke, April Woolley and Kellie Snyder-Roncace, supports the body’s natural ability to restore and rejuvenate itself—without the use of chemicals or stimulants. By harnessing the power of light through the body’s own heat, the X39 Patch offers a simple, non-invasive solution for those looking to improve their overall well-being.
What makes LifeWave’s X39 Patch truly stand out is its uniqueness. As the only product of its kind, it has been widely celebrated for its potential to optimize health in a natural and effective way. The team is passionate about sharing this technology because of the incredible results they’ve witnessed firsthand. It’s often described as one of the greatest breakthroughs in wellness in decades, helping people live their best lives by supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
This innovative patch works by using the body’s own heat to stimulate the production of essential elements to support improvements to the parts of us that begin to decrease with age, such as stem cells, collagen and energy. It boosts vitality, metabolism, brain function and muscle recovery. As the inventor David Schmidt says, “It’s not just anti-aging; it’s age-reversing.” The LifeWave team believes in its power to help people age healthier and feel younger.
For more information, call Snyder-Roncace at 609-313-2580, Woolley at 973-876-0552 or Wehnke at 732-768-4727.
Breayannah; Dr. Vadinio, DAc; Dr. Inselberg, DAc, MSc, CNS; Dr. Flay, DAc; Sail Miller and Samantha.
ELEVEN ELEVEN EXPERIENCE
The 11:11 Experience is more than a retreat—it’s an invitation to awaken, connect, and realign with your truest self. The 11:11 Experience was born from the idea that when we pause, listen, and gather with intention, transformation unfolds.
Each retreat is carefully designed to combine cultural immersion, soulful practices, and holistic healing. From the rice fields of Bali to the vineyards of Tuscany, every journey offers a balance of adventure, relaxation and deep inner work. Guests are guided through ceremonies, workshops, and meaningful connections that nourish body, mind and spirit, while also enjoying the beauty, cuisine and traditions of the destination.
At its heart, we are about community. Women come together from all walks of life to share stories, support one another, and return home with new friendships and a renewed sense of clarity. The retreats also embrace a spirit of giving back, with charitable tie-ins that support local people, animals and environments.
11:11 is often seen as a sign of alignment and awakening. True to its name, The 11:11 Experience is a portal for personal growth, soulful exploration and lasting transformation.
For more information, visit www.The1111Experience.com.
NATURAL AWAKENINGS
Creating a community that connects, educates and inspires each other to live a holistic lifestyle.
Meet Shae Marcus, a visionary entrepreneur and curator of transformative experiences who has been making a profound impact on people’s lives for over two decades. Shae’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections shines through her work with Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia magazines, the Holistic Health & Healing Expo events and The 11:11 Women’s Retreats. Her passion for health, wellness and community has brought countless individuals together, empowering them to live their best lives.
Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia, proud sponsors of the Holistic Health & Healing Expo, are more than just publications; they are guides to living a healthier, more balanced life. The South Jersey edition, the region’s leading healthy living magazine, provides readers with essential insights to enhance their quality of life—physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Natural Awakenings South Jersey offers cutting-edge content on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth and sustainable living. By featuring articles written by both national experts and local practitioners, it delivers a rich mix of trusted advice and practical tips for everyday wellness.
Each month, Natural Awakenings presents a fresh perspective on timely themes, offering inspiring how-to articles, expert interviews and news on holistic health and sustainability. Its mission is to connect readers with resources that support a holistic lifestyle.
For more information, visit NASouthJersey.com and NAPhiladelphia.com.
Shae Marcus
Workshops …
11:15 CRYSTAL 2
FREE INTERMITTAFRONT FASTING: WHAT'S ALL THE RAGE?
Kristen Duffy, Rising Tides Nutrition
11:15 GALLERY
FREE INNER CURRENTS: A YINYASA JOURNEY THROUGH THE CHAKRAS
Jenna Kelly, Balance Planet Yoga
11:30 BOARD ROOM
FREE TAPPING AWAY STRESS
Alicia Grey, Freedom Within
11:30 CRYSTAL 1
FREE LIQUID LIGHT - THE FUTURE OF WATER AS MEDICINE
Zofia Hausman, Return to the Waters
11:30 CRYSTAL 3
FREE BLOATING, BRAIN FOG, & BURNOUT, OH MY!
Christina Kreamer, CK Health LLC
11:30 PLAZA 3
FREE POWER QI ANCESTRAL HEALING FOR ABUNDANCE FOR REJUVENATION OF MIND, BODY AND SOUL
Dana Marniche, Mount Meru Holistic
11:30 TERRANCE
FREE THE STILL POINT: FINDING YOUR CALM IN A RUSHING WORLD
Parul Patel, Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization
11:45 PLAZA 1&2
$18 ADVANCE / $30 AT THE DOOR SOUL RETRIEVAL JOURNEY
Paqo Tom, Luminary Shaman
12:30 CRYSTAL 2
$40 HEART MATH STRESS TECHNOLOGY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PAIN AND INFLAMMATION
Dr. Philip A. Pappas, Ph.D, Interconnective Health
12:30 GALLERY
FREE FINDING HEALING AND EMPOWERMENT THROUGH AFROLATIN DANCE
Aliya Adenuga, Adenuga AfroLatin Dance & Wellness
12:45 BOARD ROOM
FREE SIT WITH IT: THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-REFLECTION
LaVerne Price, Life Motion Perseverance
12:45 CRYSTAL 1
DONATION DISCOVER THE POWER OF MUSCLE TESTING TO UNCOVER THE REAL REASONS BEHIND YOUR SYMPTOMS AND HEALTH CHALLENGES
Dr. Sean Inselberg, Nutritional Wellness Center
12:45 PLAZA 3
FREE THE WHAT, HOW AND WHY OF THE AKASHIC RECORDS
Bonnie Fedge, Jade Rose
12:45 TERRANCE
FREE WELLNESS SOLUTIONS THAT WORK: INSIDE STALLOP FORMULAS
Jeff Stallop, Stallop Formulas
12:45 CRYSTAL 3
FREE RAISE YOUR SPIRITUAL IQ!
Michael Stein, Eckankar, Satsang Society of New Jersey
1:00 PLAZA 1&2
FREE QUANTUM HEALING: EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF FREQUENCIES
Kim Condurso, Quantum Origins
1:45 CRYSTAL 2
FREE THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION
Wendy Romig, Sage Integrative Health
1:45 GALLERY
FREE CRYSTAL BOWLS + CHANNELED COSMIC MESSAGES
Danielle Heise, Sacred Space
2:00 BOARD ROOM
FREE BEYOND THE BRAIN: EMBRACING HOLISTIC HEALTH FOR BRAIN INJURY RECOVERY
Kristen Wilson, RN, BSN, CSN, Get Out There with Acquired Brain Injury – GOT ABI
2:00 CRYSTAL 1
FREE BECOME A MANIFESTATION MACHINE: LEARN THE 5 MAGNETIC SHIFTS TO ATTRACT LOVE, MONEY AND MIRACLES!
Dawn Ricci, Dawn Ricci Media
2:00 CRYSTAL 3
$10 MYSTIC HEALING WORKSHOP: ANCIENT TECHNIQUES, MODERN APPROACH
Cathy Gabrielsen, The Gabrielsen Healing Center
2:00 PLAZA 3
FREE INSOMNIA: THE ROOT CAUSES AND WHAT DO TO ABOUT IT
FREE MEDIUMSHIP GALLERY WITH MICHAEL EDLEY AND SPECIAL GUEST INTUITIVE WISDOM
COACH MARY AMY
Michael Edley, Michael Edley Psychic Medium
3:15 BOARD ROOM
FREE COMPLETE MICROBIOME HEALTH
Genevieve Broomes-Wilson, Lovebiome
3:15 CRYSTAL 1
FREE DISCOVER THE NATURAL POWER OF ESSENTIAL MINERALS: MAGNESIUM, ZINC & CALCIUM
Deanna Nelson, BioLink LS
3:15 CRYSTAL 3
FREE WHEN IT’S NOT JUST IN YOUR HEAD: THE HIDDEN MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS — AND THE POWER OF BOUNDARIES, SELF-CARE AND SELF-LOVE
Najmun Riyaz, Zehen Global LLC
3:15 TERRANCE
FREE BE YOUR OWN DOCTOR: HEAL THE GUT, FREE THE BRAIN
Philip March, Live Functionally
3:30 PLAZA 1&2
FREE HAPPY HABITS: BECOMING YOUR FUTURE SELF
Zaje Brown-Richardson, Meridian Hill Group
Exhibitors …
7 KEYZ WELLNESS
www.flow.page/7keyz
BRAHMA KUMARIS WORLD SPIRITUAL ORGANIZATION
www.TheMeditationCenter.net
The Meditation Center is a learning center for the community. It is a place to detach from the daily pressures of life to re-energize the spirit and reconnect with the self. It is a space designed to create feelings of welcome, safety and peace.
Embark on a transformative wellness journey with 7 Keyz Wellness Coaching!
A LITTLE BIT OF LOVE
www.ALBOLove.com
A Little Bit of Love creates & provides hair & body care products, giving “A Little Bit of Love” to ourselves and one another, one self-care item at a time.
ADENUGA AFROLATIN DANCE & WELLNESS
www.AdenugaDance.com
I would like to teach a wellness themed AfroLatin Folkloric dance class, and also have a table to provide additional information about my business.
ADJUST YOUR SLEEP MATTRESS BOUTIQUE LLC
www.AYSMattress.com
Adjust Your Sleep (AYS) Mattress Boutique, in Marlton, NJ, aims to create an enjoyable and informative shopping experience. We believe that a good mattress is an investment in your health and well-being, and we are committed to helping you achieve a better night’s sleep.
AMAZING EARTH
Diane@AmazingEarth.co
Hand-crafted, small-batch herbal wellness and beauty products from organic herbs. Pendants, earrings and bracelets are made from ethically sourced crystals.
ASCEND HEALTH
www.AscendHealth.com
Provides patients, with a life limiting condition, the opportunity to live life more fully with control, comfort and dignity. Currently seeking volunteers to provide companionship, massage, reiki, music therapy and pet therapy.
BALANCED PLANET YOGA
www.BalancedPlanetYoga.com
Discover a welcoming yoga community offering classes for all levels, restorative practices and teacher training where you can find balance, healing and connection on and off the mat.
BIOLINK
LS – AGE WELL @ ACTIVESR.COM!
www.ActiveSR.com
At ActiveSR,com, we offer premium vitamins and minerals designed to support bone and immune health, promoting an active lifestyle as you age.
BROOK MEADE OSTEOPATHIC
www.BrookMeadOsteopathic.com
Dr. James Engelman, DO, offers hands-on osteopathic care, treating the whole person for pain relief, mobility and balance.
CHILLAURA WELLNESS
www.ChillauraWellness.com
Your source for research, COA education and everyday insights on CBD, hemp and non-mainstream wellness supplements.
CRYSTAL COVE BOUTIQUE
www.CrystalCoveBoutique.com
Guiding souls toward life purpose, balance and authentic living through intuitive wisdom and holistic wellness. Receive clarity, healing and alignment for mind, body and spirit.
DAWN RICCI, INTUITIVE AND MANIFESTATION EXPERT, SPEAKER www.DawnRicci.com/5MQ
Dawn Ricci has spent a lifetime uncovering the truth—first as a top private investigator, where her sharp instincts landed her on CNN, NBC, TLC, and shows like 20/20, and The Today Show.
DAWN'S PLACE
www.AHomeForDawn.org
We provide survivors of sex trafficking and CSE a space to heal, to grow and to reclaim their lives.
DOROTHY’S HEALING CENTER www.DorothysHealingCenter.com
True Holistic Wellness NJ & PA. Our centers are designed to assist you with all of the symptoms caused by the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual stressors in life.
DZASTINA AGATA www.DAndDNatural.com
We believe in the power of nature and its ability to provide effective solutions for skincare. We are dedicated to using only natural ingredients in our products, making our skincare line free from any chemicals.
EARTH RADIANCE
www.EarthRadiance.com
Transform your skin with plant-based, vegan and ayurvedic products and services
EARTHSHACK GIFTS & HERBIARY
www.EarthShack.org
EarthShack is stocked with the purest gifts and natural health products nature has to offer. Most pieces are handmade. We consciously source raw materials and use reclaimed materials wherever possible.
ECKANKAR – SATSANG SOCIETY OF NEW JERSEY
www.Eckankar-NJ.org
Are dreams real? Have you lived before? Coincidence? Intuition? Eckankar provides answers and spiritual techniques to look deeper into the connections between spiritual experiences, dreams and past lives. Free presentation.
EUPHORIA INTEGRATED HEALTH & WELLNESS
www.EuphoriaIntegratedHW.com
Our mission at Euphoria Integrated Health & Wellness is to properly educate the community about holistic wellness through the use of cannabinoids, proper nutrition and even exercise!
GEM LIFE + BAR, WELL-BEING BARTIQUE
www.GemLifeCollective.com
Gem Bar is a booze-free bottle shop and pop-up bar offering an unforgettable wellness experience by crafting and sourcing amazing alcohol-free cocktails.
GET
OUT THERE WITH
ACQUIRED
BRAIN INJURY – GOT ABI
www.GOTABI.org
Get Out There with Acquired Brain Injury (GOT ABI) is a newly established NJ 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering young adults with acquired brain injuries to reclaim their futures, connect with their communities, and thrive through awareness, socialization and advocacy.
GOLDEN LIGHT PRANIC HEALING CENTER
www.PranicHealingCenter.com
Golden Light Pranic Healing and Meditation Center is a family-owned pranic energy healing clinic and school serving the greater Philadelphia, PA area. We learned Pranic Healing directly from its founder and have been sharing this breakthrough system with thousands of people over two decades.
HAPPY VACAY VEGAN
Contact 856-291-6327
Offering vegan granola, cookies and book. Supporting your vegan coaching journey with wholesome products and guidance for a healthier lifestyle.
Healistic Flow is a massage clinic striving to relieve tension in upper back, neck & shoulders using certified techniques and professional massage tools to decrease pain and achieve mobility.
HENNA BY ASH AshLesha628@gmail.com
Looking for that special something for your party? Henna by Ash can help! I am dedicated to bringing you the very best in safe body art Homemade organic henna paste & cones.
HONEY BUZ
https://HoneyBuz.com
Natural Remedies: Harness the soothing and restorative properties of honey and hemp, perfect for healing and rejuvenating problem skin.
IBP (INNER BEAUTY & PEACE) WELLNESS
www.IBPWellness.etsy.com
Inspired by the lotus flower—an emblem of purity and renewal—I created the Inner Beauty & Peace Collection also known as IBP Wellness. Each product in our line is crafted with love, using the finest natural ingredients, so you can experience tranquility in your home.
INNERLIGHT & BEYOND
www.AndBeyond-Healing.com
Intuitive Readings, Energy Healing, End of Life Doula.
INNERPHUEL
www.InnerPhuel.com
At innerPhuel, we offer cutting-edge, science-based, continuing education courses, online & in-person workshops that deliver powerful, impactful results, aimed at cultivating connection, inspiration and transformation.
INTERCONNECTIVE HEALTH
www.InterconnectiveHealth.com
Shea Kennedy, a Certified Homeopathic Expert, offers bioenergetic testing, sound therapy, lymphatic drainage, red light therapy, detox and nutritional programs, flower essences and more.
INTUITIVE MOVEMENT PHYSICAL THERAPY
www.IntuitiveMovementPT.com
At Intuitive Movement, our mission is to empower individuals dealing with pain to better understand their body. Our goal is to help them heal, decrease pain, and improve quality of life without the use of injections, medications, or surgery.
Be
Exhibitors …
JADE ROSE
www.JadeRose.com
LIQUID LOUNGE IV
www.TheLiquidLoungeIV.com
IV hydration, vitamin drips, aesthetics and skincare in a spa-like setting, to refresh, restore and elevate your wellness.
JE T'AIME BATH & BODY
www.JeTaimeBathAndBody.com
I’ll present some concepts of Akashic Records, meditations with them. I’ll talk about how I use them, share how you could use them, and we’ll play with an introduction to Akashic meditation and visualizations.
JUICE CAPITOL
www.JuiceCapitol.co
LIVE FUNCTIONALLY
www.LiveFunctionally.com
Functional nutrition and lifestyle to optimize health to be healthy, happy and wealthy. I overcame personal health challenges and have a passion to teach others how to avoid chronic inflammatory illness.
Natural Skincare: Self-Love is the best love! We are committed to being the only place you need to look great and maintain your healthy, beautiful skin!
KAIA SKIN
www.Kaia.Skin
LOVEBIOME
www.Wilsong.Lovebiome.com
Your Gut Health is the most important thing you can do for your overall health. Change One Thing & Change Everything!
MAGAZINER CENTER FOR WELLNESS
Juice Capitol provides great tasting raw juices to help cultivate the body. Offers several detox/cleansing programs. Our juices are made daily, handcrafted, bottled and are custom made.
KINDHIVE
https://KindHive.co
www.DrMagaziner.com
Providing integrative, regenerative medicine for over 30 years with natural, non-toxic therapies, advanced testing and personalized care.
Our unique formulations of natural & organic ingredients are customizable to suit specific skin needs and can be used either individually or in combination for an effective skincare ritual.
MEDIUM MATT OZ
www.MediumMattOz.com
My name is Matt, and I am a psychic medium. I have the ability to connect to your loved ones that are passed away, to show that they are still around you, but just in a different type of way!
LIFE MOTION PERSEVERANCE
KindHive offers kind goods and guides for kind people. We offer coconut candles, coconut bowls, bamboo goods and more that make great gifts for every occasion and resources to help you live a more sustainable life.
http://LifeMotionPerseverance.com
At Life Motion Perseverance, we specialize in mindset coaching and Reiki healing to support your personal development journey.
HHH Expo Sponsor
LIFEWAVE
www.LifeWave.com/KellieSnyderRoncace
The LifeWave X39 is clinically proven to provide the body with a level of health and vitality that you have not experienced since you were in your youth.
LIGHTWAVE CHIROPRACTIC
www.LightWaveChiro.com
The Network Spinal care we offer aims to upgrade the capabilities and coherence of the human operating system with gentle contacts along the spine, encouraging the body-mind to unwind tension on its own in a way.
Discover the healing properties of hemp/cannabis to alleviate common health conditions and restore homeostasis and health. - Highest quality & concentrations of hemp derived CBD from CO and PA. Topicals, Sublingual Drops, Patches, Pet Care.
MONDAY WELL NATURAL MEDICINE www.MondayWell.com
Elidania Perez, ND, MS, Naturopathic Doctor. Provide holistic health, wellness solutions and lifestyle support for mind, body and spirit.
MOUNT MERU HOLISTIC
www.MtMeruHolistic.com
Mount Meru Holistic Arts is a globally focused company with the most wholistic of intentions; dedicated to assisting you in alleviating the day-to-day challenges faced by you and your family.
I have a passion for helping others to find greater confidence, strength and clarity by getting healthy from the inside out. I would love to help you be your best, strongest and healthiest self.
We are a spa offering a variety of spa services, Within our Spa reception area we have a Crystal Boutique with a exquisite collection of sterling silver gemstone jewelry and a beautiful variety of crystals, minerals, semi-precious stone, incense, candles, CBD oils, spiritual instruments and much more.
PARTNERCO
www.partner.co/en-us
Showcasing PartnerCo’s plant-based, science-backed wellness lifestyle products designed to help people look, feel and live better. Learn how these products fit into everyday routines to boost energy, improve sleep, manage cravings, and support healthy living.
PIXIE DOODLE FARM
www.PixieDoodleFarm.com
Pixie Doodle Farm believes health should have a preventative focus and be easily accessible. A cup of herbal tea a day, infusing herbs into your cooking oil, or adding them to vinegar can be simple additions to improve your health. And they taste delicious!
POOFY ORGANICS
www.PoofyOrganics.com
Organic, natural, and toxin-free personal care for bath, body, mom & baby, home and wellness. Safe, sustainable products that nurture your family’s health.
RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN
www.Esler.com
Andersen deploys a comprehensive strategic approach to driving sustainable improvements.
REVITALIZE NATURALLY
Call 609-685-7080 for details
Advanced therapeutic mats with far-infrared, negative ions and amethyst crystals for healing, relaxation and pain relief. Featuring Young Living Essential Oils.
RISING TIDES NUTRITION
www.TheRisingTides.co
Offering personalized nutrition guidance, wellness coaching and holistic support to help you thrive with balance and vitality.
SACRED EARRTH
www.instagram.com/sacredearrth
You don’t pick the crystal, the crystal picks you! A hand-crafted and curated collection of crystal jewelry that embodies the spirit and love of Sacred Earrth, and connects crystals with their rightful owners.
SACRED SPACE USA https://SacredSpaceUSA.com
Stop by our booth and allow yourself to be guided in Meditation, Relaxation, Regenerating and Healing your Mind, Body and Soul through Vibrational Sound Healing with Crystal Singing Bowls.
SAGE INTEGRATIVE
HEALTH CENTER
www. SageIntegrativeHealth.com
Outstanding service and results for 15 years - Sage Integrative Health was voted one of Philly's favorite Alternative Health Practices for 2024 & 2025. We are a compassionate, evidence-based functional nutrition and herbal medicine practice founded by Dr. Wendy Romig. Our team is here to help you feel your best!
SANO INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS
www.SanoWellnessNJ.com
Offering chiropractic care, naturopathic medicine and holistic therapies to restore balance and vitality. Let us help you begin your journey toward better health.
SAVVY FIT SOAPS
www.SavvyFitSoaps.com
Savvy Fit Soaps are known for their luxury soaps and edgy motto, “Really Friggin Natural,” differentiating themselves as soaps you can trust.
SHERU’S LLC www.Extract48.com
At EXTRACT48, we have expertly crafted blends derived from natural herbs and spices to promote healing, vitality and rejuvenation. Each blend we offer is the result of extensive research and development, ensuring that we provide only the highest quality products tailored to support your holistic well-being.
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Exhibitors …
SHOKRA SOUPS
www.Shokra-Soups.com
A healthy fast food alternative that gives you the best of both worlds of flavor and healthy intentional eating choices!
SN TIBET AND HIMALAYAN HANDICRAFTS
Ralung59@aol.com
Bringing to you genuine handmade products from Tibet and the Himalayan regions in Asia. We specialize in Tibetan Singing Bowls, Bells, Gongs, and OM drums for meditation, yoga, reiki, and healing. Visit our unique booth for unique gifts from the Himalayan region.
STALLOP FORMULAS
www.StallopFormulas.com
Premium natural supplements and wellness solutions designed to support vitality, balance and overall health. Experience trusted, science-based formulas for everyday well-being.
SUPPORTIVE SPACE COUNSELING CENTER
www.MySupportiveSpace.com
SSCC has pioneered the way and is NJ's premier provider, for telemental health care services, with over 15 licensed therapists of varying specialties who work with children, teens and adults from across our state—all entirely online.
THE 11:11 EXPERIENCE
www.The1111Experience.com
Our retreats are dedicated to providing transformative experiences for women who share a passion for travel, holistic wellness and spiritual growth.
THE BAKER’S BREW TheBakersBrew.com
The Baker’s Brew offers something for everyone. With traditional as well as vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar free and organic dessert options, everyone is sure to leave a little sweeter.
THE BASEMENT SPA, LLC www.instagram.com/the_basement_ spa_llc
Christine DeSanta is Certified in Myofascial Release, Reiki Master, Deep Tissue, Sports Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Reflexology, Cupping, Craniosacral, and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (Hawk Grips).
THE ENLIGHTENED ELEPHANT WELLNESS LOFT
www.EnlightenedElephantLoft.com
Massage, energy work, sound healing, face reflexology, manual lymphatic drainage, essential oils and creams, head tinglers.
THE GABRIELSEN HEALING CENTER www.CathyGabrielsen.com
Cathy Gabrielsen is a Master Healer, Spiritual Teacher, Ayurveda Health Coach, Founder of the Gabrielsen Healing Center and number-one bestselling Author of Dying to Live: Surviving Near-Death.
THE PEACE WE CRAVE www.ThePeaceWeCrave.com
Certified meditation instructor (C.MI™), Usui/Holy Fire® III Karuna Reiki® Master, Sound Vibrational Reiki Healing Practitioner, Animal Reiki practitioner, Certified spiritual life recovery coach, and Yoga4Sobriety Teacher Ambassador/Teacher Liaison.
THE RAVENWOOD FARMS
www.TheRavenwoodFarms.org
Certified meditation instructor (C.MI™), Usui/Holy Fire® III Karuna Reiki® Master, Sound Vibrational Reiki Healing Practitioner, Animal Reiki practitioner, Certified spiritual life recovery coach, and Yoga4Sobriety Teacher Ambassador/Teacher Liaison.
THE SEA MOSS FACTORY
www.TheSeaMossFactoryOnline.com
Sea Moss Gel and Sea Moss Supplements, Herbal Bitters, Soaps and Body Butters, Sea Moss-infused natural juices and sorbet.
THE ZEN DEN ON MAIN
www.TheCenterLifeInBalance.com
The Zen Den on Main carries wellness and healing products such as essential oils, minerals, gemstones, herbal teas and accessories, handmade soaps, wind chimes, singing bowls, candles, and other gifts from the earth.
THRIVE DENTAL WELLNESS
www.ThriveDentalWellness.com
Thrive Dental Wellness: truly comprehensive dental care where we treat more than just teeth. Our goal is to help you understand how your oral health impacts your overall health. The patient-centered approach emphasizes preventive care, early intervention and education to help guide you to make the right decisions for your health. We want you to thrive!
WINDOW OF WEALTH www.WindowOfWealth.com
CBD pain relief, Sleep, Energy and Immune CBD Gummies /wholistic weight loss.
YOGANOMALOUS www.Yoganomalous.com
Earth-friendly yoga props. All grip, no slip. Yoganomalous believes in creating a better world with recyclable and renewable plant-based surfaces for you, your practice and the planet.
ZOE’S VEGAN DELIGHT ZoesVeganDelight.com
Zoe’s Vegan Delight is a vegan catering company that serves both your needs and your appetite. We take pride in the fact that we use no animal or GMO products in any of our ingredients.
Calendar of Events
Sunday, October 5
Full Moon Sound Healing, Guided Meditation, and Journaling with Angela Fields – 6-7:15pm. Join in to release what no longer serves and invite clarity, compassion, and renewal. Immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls, gong, and more, then reflect through meditation and journaling to align with the transformative energy of the Hunter’s Moon. Live in Joy Yoga, 118 W. Merchant St., Audubon. www.LiveInJoyYoga.com.
Tuesday, October 7
THRIVE TOGETHER - Group Coaching for Women in Midlife Ready to Reclaim Their Wellbeing. 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 wellbeing. Cost: $489. www.GrowthAndGritHealth.com
Wednesday, October 8
Blankets with Kristy for BREAST CANCER AWARENESS w/Kristy McAdams –10:45-11:45am. Join Kristy and help spread warmth and comfort by making cozy, no-sew fleece-tie blankets for those undergoing chemotherapy in the southern New Jersey region. All materials provided. Just bring your loving energy and helping hands. Free event. Please register ahead for this event on our website. The Center for Living, 45 S. Main St. Medford. 609-975-8379 or Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence™️ System –11am-2pm. Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Her unique 5 MQ Intelligence™️ System eliminates guesswork, delivering clear steps for relationships, career, finances, and health transformation. Register now: https://DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife.
Teen Intuitive Development Workshop w/ Beth O’Brien – 6:30-8pm. Join Beth O’Brien in a new workshop designed specifically for teens between 13-18, to enhance a teenager’s innate spiritual and/or intuitive abilities through discussion, practical exercises, meditation, and guided activities, helping them develop confidence, improve decision-making, and gain inner guidance. Cost: $35. The Center for Living, 45 S. Main St. Medford. 609-975-8379 or Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
Thursday, October 9
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence™️ System –11am-2pm. Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Her unique 5 MQ Intelligence™️ System eliminates guesswork, delivering clear steps for relationships, career, finances, and health transformation. Register now: https://DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife.
Friday, October 10
Moorestown Living History & Ghost Tour – 7:30pm. Explore Moorestown’s haunted history with colonial spirits, Revolutionary soldiers, and more. Cost: Adults $25, Seniors $20, Students $15, Kids under 6 free. Smith-Cadbury Mansion, 12 High St. Moorestown. https://tinyurl.com/lvinghistory.
Saturday, October 11
Warrior RHYTHM Flows with Karen Roorda – 9-10am. Join in and be guided through unconventional yoga flows and creative sun salutations. This pop-up offers a transcendent, dance-like experience. Move to the music and connect to your inner wild thing! Live in Joy Yoga, 118 W. Merchant St., Audubon. www.LiveInJoyYoga.com.
Sunday, October 12
Holistic Health & Healing Expo – 11am5pm. Discover 100+ holistic vendors, workshops, and mini-sessions. Cost: Complimentary with code GUEST. The DoubleTree Hotel, 2349 Marlton Pike West, Cherry Hill. www.NJ.HHHExpo.com. Golden Light Pranic Healing Center invites you to stop by their booth at the Expo!
Blessing of the Animals – 3:30pm. Celebrate beloved pets with a community blessing. Cost: Free. St. Andrews United Methodist Church, 327 Marlton Pike West, Cherry Hill. www.SAUMC.org.
Free Family Yoga – A free event for families of all ages sponsored by NJ4S and taught by studio owner Jenna Kelly. Balanced Planet Yoga, 795 E. Route 70, Marlton. www.BalancedPlanetYoga.com.
Wednesday, October 15
1:1 Free Session Intuition and Manifest with the 5MQ Intelligence™️ System –11am-2pm. Spiritual Mentor and Intuitive Dawn Ricci explains how investigative skills unlock manifestation in this free online session. Her unique 5 MQ Intelligence™️ System eliminates guesswork, delivering clear steps for relationships, career, finances, and health transformation. Register now: https://DawnRicci.com/ManifestYourLife.
Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in
Halloween Costume Swap – 10am-1pm & 5-8:30pm. Swap pre-loved costumes. No registration required. Cherry Hill Public Library, 1100 Kings Hwy. N., Cherry Hill. ChplKids@ChplNJ.org or 856-667-0300.
Thursday, October 16
Gut Health & Chronic Illness Workshop – 7:30pm. If you’ve been searching for answers to ongoing health concerns—like digestive discomfort, skin flare-ups, migraines, fatigue, or stubborn weight gain— your gut may hold the key. Smart Bodies Fitness Center, 55 E. Route 70, Marlton. Space is limited. To reserve your spot, call 856-858-1595.
Friday, October 17
Witches Tea & Gallery Reading w/Robin Collier – 7-9pm. Join Psychic Medium Robin Collier for a magical Witches Tea and Gallery. You are invited to an evening with your fellow Witches enjoying tea and delicious snacks while Robin connects with your loved ones and delivers their messages. Everyone is welcome to come dressed up as a witch or just wear your favorite Witches hat! Everyone will receive a Reading! Seating is limited. Please register ahead for this event on our website. The Center for Living, 45 S. Main St. Medford. 609-975-8379 or Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
Sunday, October 19
Free Halloween Pop-Up Shop – 10am2pm. Shop new and gently used costumes plus accessories. Cost: Free. Sustainable Maple Shade, 200 Stiles Ave., Maple Shade. www.SustainableMapleShade.org.
Kitten Yoga – BPY is partnering up once again with Rise Again – a nonprofit kitten rescue to raise funds, awareness and maybe even get a few kitty’s new homes. Balanced Planet Yoga, 795 E. Route 70, Marlton. www.BalancedPlanetYoga.com.
Wednesday, October 22
Women’s Wellness Reset – 6-8pm. Guided meditation, sound bath, Reiki, and intuitive card pull. Cost: $50. Mount Laurel. www.DrKatieOShea.com.
Thursday, October 23
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. Facilitated by an experienced certified Pranic healer and Pranic psychotherapist. To reserve your spot and receive the Zoom link, please email GoldenLight@comcast.net or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com.
Friday, October 24
Yes She Can Networking Luncheon – 122pm. Gather with inspiring women at this empowering luncheon. Connect, share resources, and build collaborations while enjoying food, conversation, and purposeful networking designed to fuel success. www.AYSMattress.com.
Sunday, October 26
Pendulum Class – 5-7pm. Join presenter Geoffrey White with his 25-plus years of experience using pendulums. Cost: $50. East Meets West Acupuncture and Energy Healing Center, 1002 Birchfield Drive, Mt. Laurel. Call to register: 856.222.4600.
Thursday, October 30
Speaking with the Spirits – 7-9pm. Mediumship talk plus audience readings (not guaranteed). Cost: $50. The Enlightened Elephant Wellness Loft, 3 Deltona Ln, Marlton https://tinyurl.com/Speaking-with-Spirits.
Saturday-Sunday, November 15 – 16
SAVE-THE-DATE
Basic Pranic Healing Course 9:30am-6pm
Pranic Healing is a balanced package of holistic wellness that includes energy healing, chakra healing, meditation, breathing exercises, energy hygiene, and preventive energy therapy. Learn all of this and more in this 2-day practical and inspirational workshop. Taught by the most experienced instructors in the region. For registration, email GoldenLightPlace@gmail.com or text 856-905-9119 or visit www.PranicHealingCenter.com
Classifieds
For Hire
PART-TIME POSITION - Medford Functional Medicine is looking for a parttime functional medicine nurse practitioner. 609-969-4844.
For Rent
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – Integrative Physician looking to share office space in Voorhees. 856-669-9118.
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – Newly renovated professional office space/ medical/health & wellness office space available in Medford. For more information, call Reneé at 856-906-0644.
Ongoing Events
Sunday
Trauma Informed Yoga: Returning Home to the Body – 4pm. Discover a gentle practice that honors choice, safety, and compassion. Explore how trauma-informed yoga helps release stress carried in breath, posture, and daily patterns. Balanced Planet Yoga, 795 E. Route 70, Marlton. Reconnect, restore balance, and nurture resilience. www.BalancedPlanetYoga.com.
Monday
Tai Chi + Young Living Essential Oils (with Janice Skeens) – 9-10am. Flow into balance each Monday morning with Tai Chi and essential oils. Gentle movements restore energy, reduce stress, and nurture wellness. A grounding start to your week. Cost: $15. www.AYSMattress.com.
Bands, Body & Business Workout (with Ryan Hoff, former Ninja Warrior) – 4-5pm. Train with Ryan Hoff, former Ninja Warrior, in a high-energy resistance band workout. Strengthen body, sharpen focus, and build business mindset in this motivating class. Cost: $15. www.AYSMattress.com.
Monthly Meditation/Mini-Workshop, First Monday – 6:30pm-8pm. An open invitation to those who are interested in exploring meditation, energy education/ topics and reiki. Please be respectful and refrain from alcohol the day of the workshop. Cost: $15. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford, 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com
Tuesday
Thrive Together: Group Coaching for Women in Midlife – 7pm. - Ready to move forward with intention and confidence? This 10-session virtual coaching program will help you: Clarify what truly matters to you, Set realistic, empowering goals, create a vision for your next chapter. Remedy Body & Breath, 120 N. Haddon Ave., Haddonfield. www.GrowthAndGritHealth.com/yoga.
Yoga on the Blocks with Alyssa – 7:308:30pm. Join Alyssa for an exciting 6-week series playing with blocks and props galore! Explore how blocks and props can deepen your practice! Whether you’re easing into poses or challenging yourself, blocks help you find the perfect balance. Flow through class with support and strength, leaving both relaxed and empowered. Live in Joy Yoga, 118 W. Merchant St., Audubon. www.LiveInJoyYoga.com.
Wednesday
PEC Sunrise Fitness Hikes Registration
Midday Meditation – 12-12:10pm. On Wednesday, the focus is Love. Each week we raise the Love vibration personally and globally. Treat yourself to a midday refresher. The Center for Living, 45 South Main St. Medford, 609-975-8379. Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
Bands, Body & Business Workout (with Ryan Hoff, former Ninja Warrior) – 4-5pm. Train with Ryan Hoff, former Ninja Warrior, in a high-energy resistance band workout. Strengthen body, sharpen focus, and build business mindset in this motivating class. Cost: $15. www.AYSMattress.com.
Christopher’s Weekly Tea Talks – 7pm. Join our weekly Zoom call to learn about Kratom, its traditional use, safety tips, industry news, and your rights as a consumer. Sign up here: www.bit.ly/47vJtgC.
Thursday
Osteoporosis-Informed Yoga Series –9:30-11am. Join in this 6-week series for women. Movement and postures taught with bone health and safety in mind. Drawing from current research and specialized training, to support stronger bones, better balance and improved posture, helping you feel confident, supported and safe in your practice. Remedy Body & Breath, 120 N. Haddon Ave., Haddonfield. www.GrowthAndGritHealth.com/yoga.
Vibe and Vitality – 6:45-8:15pm. Every 3rd Thursday join in to explore innovative holistic techniques, deepen self-awareness, and gain practical tools from expert hosts to empower y our well-being. Cost: $30. Studio 67, 67 N. Main Street, Medford. https://shorturl.at/LKh95.
Friday
Midday Meditation – 12-12:10pm. On Friday, the focus is Peace. Each week we raise the Peace vibration personally and globally. Treat yourself to a midday refresher. The Center for Living, 45 South Main St. Medford, 609-975-8379. Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
Saturday
Psychic & Healing Fair, Third Saturday10am-2pm. The fair offers holistic and innovative lectures and workshops on healing. Guests are able to sit-in on lectures, have an intuitive psychic reading, a Reiki session, energy healing or lie on the BioMat. Cost: $30/20 minute session. Pre-registration and Walk-ins are welcome. The Center for Living, 45 South Main St. Medford, 609-975-8379. Info@TheCenterForLiving.net.
– Take a mid-week break to greet the sun, clear your mind, and get your heart rate up. Teens & Adults. Hikes will be about 2 hours, and 4+ miles on the trails. We will aim to walk at least 20 minute miles. Free. Questions? PEC@phila.gov or 215-685-0470.
the Small Businesses that Advertise in NASJ
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@NASouthJersey to request our media kit.
Offering simple, effective solutions for optimal health for the whole family. Includes: Functional Medicine testing, Othromolecular energy medicine, Neuro-Emotional Technique, Psycho neurobiology, autonomic response testing, Theta Healing.
Ancestral Energy and Pranic Healing
DANA REYNOLDS-MARNICHE, Ph.D.
Shaman-based Qi Channeler, Clairvoyant and Teacher
Mount Meru Holistic Earth Power Healing 856-993-1786
MtMeruHolistic.com/healing-testimonials
Highly trained with 35 yrs experience in mind-body healing, I utilize Korean Chunsu, a 5,000-yr-old therapeutic practice, involving the channeling of balanced Heaven-Earth cosmic qi energy to release negative ancestral patterns from the body and mind. Rapidly restores well-being, addresses anxiety, depression, treats hormonal, immune system and chakra imbalances, alleviates physical pain, rejuvenates body cells and clears toxins. Over time, a prevalence of harmony in one’s home and work environment and the ability to manifest abundance and protection become our natural state of being.
Astrology and Tarot
NICOLE GOICURIA, M.A.
Therapeutic Astrologer and Tarotist www.theastralbotanica.com
Nicole Goicuria, M.A., is an art psychotherapist that has been practicing since 2007. She is also a professional Astrologer and Tarot reader that provides psychodynamic, intuitive and trauma-informed offerings that can be customized to suit a wide range of mental health and wellness needs. Nicole is available for virtual and in-person appointments.
Awareness Coaching
MARYANN PINO MILLER, M.Ed.
Certified Heal Your Life® Teacher Emotion Code Practitione
Become aware of your true nature, meet your inner child waiting for your love, become aware of and unload the baggage weighing you down, become aware of the depth of love that exists within you and gain the understanding of the importance of your relationship with yourself and how to foster it.
With over 20+ years’ experience in the Wellness industry, Susan specializes in holistic lifestyle management. She offers Ayurveda coaching, mindful movement classes, massage/reiki sessions.
Chiropractor
HEALTH GOALS CHIROPRACTIC CENTER
Dr. Kathleen Baumgardner
Health Goals Chiropractic 230 N. Maple Ave., Marlton 856-983-5422
www.MountLaurelChiropractors.com
Experience personalized, compassionate chiropractic care at Health Goals Chiropractic Center, where Dr. Kathleen Baumgardner and her team help you achieve pain relief and total-body wellness through a range of services including chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, massage therapy, and fitness training. Specialties include women’s wellness, pregnancy care and the young athlete.
HARMONIOUS HEALINGS HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE
30 Jackson Rd, D207 Medford, NJ 08055
856-359-6005 www.DrKevinG.com
Optimize your human potential holistically: functional neurology & kinesiology, stress release & neuro-emotional technique, structure & posture improvement with advanced biostructural correction, biophysics body optimizer.
Coaching
GROWTH & GRIT HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING
Anita Romero MSN, APN, RYT-200, NBC-HWC
Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach 856-281-7285
www.GrowthAndGritHealth.com
Anita@GrowthAndGritHealth.com
As a board-certified health and wellness coach, my mission is to empower women to take charge of their health and wellbeing 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.
Energy for Healing
INFINITE POSSIBILITIES CENTER LLC
801 Rte 73, Ste I, Evesham, NJ 08053
856-983-1767
Elsie@LoveInfinitePossibilities.com
www.LoveInfinitePossibilities.com
Infinite Possibilities invites you to relax in our zero-gravity chairs and experience the Energy Enhancement System which generates life-enhancing scalar wave energy, light, and color therapy. Other services include a Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, LET Lymphatic Drainage, BioWell personal energy field scan, nourishing massage, and restful Reiki sessions. The EES system has been tested, peer-reviewed, and recognized at medical, scientific and professional conferences.
Functional Medicine
CHARLOTTE NUSSBAUM, MD
Medford Functional Medicine 103 Old Marlton Pike, Suite 203 Medford, NJ 08055
609-969-4844
www.MedfordFunctionalMedicine.com
Board-certified pediatrician and internist Charlotte Nussbaum is a founder of Medford Functional Medicine where we partner with people of all ages to reclaim their health.
Functional Nutrition
NICOLE L. KITZITAFF, RDN
TriUnity Nutrition & Wellness
1060 Kings Highway N., Ste. 301 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
856-667-6805
Info@TriUnityNutrition.com
www.TriUnityNutrition.com
TriUnity Nutrition & Wellness, led by Nicole Kizitaff, RDN, uses functional nutrition, muscle testing, and holistic remedies to address root causes and optimize your health.
Holistic Coaching
APRIL WILLARD
The Zen Den on Main 5 South Main Street Medford, NJ 08055
609-975-8379
www.TheCenterLifeInBalance.com
Ordained Minister (all denominations), Art Therapy (all ages), Sound Healing, Reiki II, Guided Meditation, and Letting Go Ceremonies. Supporting holistic and emotional coaching. Contact: YogiCaresnj@gmail.com or 215-205-2786 for bookings and inquiries.
Holistic Healing
TRU WELLNESS
1220 Kings Hwy, Swedesboro 484-832-4457
www.TruWellness.live
We provide a sacred space for healing and transformation from the inside out. Our diverse services—including red light therapy, PEMF, sound bed, and crystal light bed— support physical, emotional, and mental well-being while reducing pain, inflammation, and inner stress. Join our nurturing community.
Hypnotherapy
DR. JAIME FELDMAN, DCH
Chairman, Medical & Dental Division, International Hypnosis Federation 214 W Main St, Ste L4 Moorestown, NJ 08057
856-231-0432 • DrJaimeF@aol.com
www.PartsTherapy.com
Dr. Jaime Feldman, one of the pioneers in an advanced technique called “Advanced Parts Therapy,” has been able to unlock the subconscious and remove unwanted behaviors: stop smoking (guaranteed), weight loss, stress, depression, pain and anger management, and more. Outstanding success in curing phobias and deep-seated trauma, and treating the immune system to put cancer into complete remission.
Frustrated with physicians, nutritionists and therapists? This chronic complex illness involves the body, mind and spirit. Using a holistic approach, we will explore concepts from recent neuropsychology research and proven meditation practice to promote lifestyle changes that work to minimize and manage your IBS-D symptoms.
Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
DESIREE BOHN
Next Level Health and Healing Cherry Hill, NJ 609-541-1087
NextLevelhh@outlook.com
Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach specializing in HEALING YOUR BODY with food and vitamins including teaching “food over medicine,” educating on life-changing foods and navigating packaging labels and avoiding harmful ingredients. Heal your skin conditions, fatigue, constipation, ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness and Lyme disease.
Integrative/Holistic Medicine
DR. STEVEN HORVITZ
Institute for Medical Wellness
110 Marter Ave, Ste 408, Moorestown, NJ
856-231-0590
www.DrHorvitz.com
Board-Certified Family Medicine blending traditional family care with a holistic focus and preventive, nutritional and integrative approach. We look for causes and triggers for disease before reaching for the prescription pad. Same and next day appointments are available.
Integrative Medicine/ Holistic Pain Management
POLINA KARMAZIN, MD
Board certified in Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture
Our practice treats each person individually by addressing the root cause of the problem. Dr Karmazin employs holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, biopuncture, homeopathy and nutritional counselling for a variety of ailments. We also specialize in holistic pain management and do not use narcotics, NSAIDs or steroid injections.
Susan is an Intuitive Medium and Reiki Master. She specializes in intuitively enhancing the mind, soul and physical body with healing energy for your highest well-being. Susan can connect you to your loved ones in spirit for healing and peace.
Intuitive Massage
INTUITIVE MEDICAL MASSAGE
THERAPY WITH INFRA-RED LIGHT AND PEMF THERAPY
Trusted Healing Hands at The Center Life In Balance
45 S. Main St., Medford
609-752-7675
www.TrustedHealingHands.com
Tiffany is a highly skilled, intuitive massage therapist, energy worker who utilizes heartbased coherence vibrations to reduce pain and stress while harmonizing the body.
Prime IV Hydration & Wellness is the nation’s leader in vitamin-infusion therapy. They offer a spa-like environment and utilize only the latest in cutting-edge intravenous (IV) therapies.
Life Coaching
THERESA HIGGINS, HC, NS
Certified Health Coach, Nutrition Specialist, and Personal Trainer
Living Healthier By Design empowers individuals to achieve lasting health through personalized nutrition coaching, fitness training, and lifestyle guidance. Combining science-based strategies with supportive accountability, I help clients lose weight, gain strength, and manage chronic conditions for sustainable results. For more information, visit www.LivingHealthierByDesign.com or stop by at Riverton Health and Fitness Center, 600 Main St., Suite 9, Riverton, NJ 08077. Call or text 609-558-8614.
Medical Skincare and Cosmetics
DR. ANAMARIA NEWPORT, DMS, DMD, MHS, PAC 17 White Horse Pike, Ste 10B Haddon Heights, NJ 08035
856-323-8885
Dr. Newport is a discerning artist, highly experienced master cosmetic injector and renowned dermatology speaker with 10+ years of extensive medical training. Her continuous dedication for skincare, surgery, dentistry, and cosmetic procedures are enhanced by combining the use of the latest technology and her unique homeopathic style. As an artist, she is genuinely passionate about bringing out the unique beauty in each one of her patients. Look no further for your organic skincare specialist, offering the purest treatments achievable with our personalized natural products.
Offering a personalized, educational approach to mattress selection, we focus on your comfort and health needs to ensure a perfect sleep system—because quality rest is essential for overall well-being and daily vitality.
Join the region’s leading numerologist as you discover your life’s purpose. Encoded in your name and birth date are your lessons, talents and desires. Traci will help you realize your full potential.
Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.
—Elizabeth Lawrence
Outdoor Recreation & Pinelands Preservation
PINELANDS ADVENTURES
1005 Atsion Rd, Shamong, NJ 08088
609-268-0189
www.PinelandsAdventures.org
A nonprofit initiative of Pinelands Preservation Alliance. Recreational activities include guided/ unguided river paddling, camping, hiking and small group history and ecology forest tours.
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.
Reiki
DR. JOCELYN FLAY, DAC
Nutritional Wellness Center
1 Cinnaminson Ave, Ste 206 Palmyra, NJ 08065
856-499-2160
www.NutritionalWellnessNJ.com
Open to the flow of reiki that is before you and experience the divine life force energy that is innate to all of us. You can heal, grow, process trauma, change your beliefs, create new experiences, and shift into a life that you love, and reiki can guide you. Individual reiki sessions and reiki courses are provided at the Nutritional Wellness Center.
THERAPY EDGE CONSULTING
Dr. Katie O'Shea
1200 South Church St., Ste. 9, Mount Laurel
856-452-1532
DrKatieOShea@gmail.com
www.DrKatieOShea.com
Offering transformative reiki sessions to restore balance, reduce stress, relieve pain, boost vitality, improve sleep, and guide you toward lasting wellness and inner peace.
Spiritual Wellness
BETH O’BRIEN
Spiritual Healing Through Guidance
The Center Life in Balance, 45 N Main St, Medford
On Angels Wings, 110 Creek Rd, Mt Laurel BethOB67@yahoo.com
Beth, a psychic/medium, can give you spiritual and intuitive guidance from your loved ones. Beth is also a Reiki Master and an ordained minister to officiate your wedding. She also is a paranormal investigator and does private and public homes. She also does house blessings and cleansing.
With nearly 40 years of excellence in patient care, the Magaziner Center for Wellness is the area’s premier center for integrative and functional medicine.
RESTORATIVE WELLNESS
103 Old Marlton Pike, suite 203 Medford, NJ 08055
201-400-7292
www.RestorativeWellness.net
Yoga
A safe space is provided for exploration and development of creative strategies for healing. Clinical expertise meets holistic healing, to establish new coping and creative self-care methods.
RISE AND THRIVE WELLNESS YOGA Terry Veit-Harmening
714 E Main St, Moorestown 609-923-5782
www.RiseAndThriveWellnessYoga.com
Terry Veit-Harmening is a certified Yoga Therapist, a certified Ayurvedic Lifestyle Educator and a brain longevity specialist with the Alzheimer’s Research Association. Yoga Therapy is a holistic approach to health care using postures, movement, stretches, lifestyle choices, relaxation and breathing practices to address your specific issues.
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Add Your Community to Where Natural Awakenings Is Now Publishing:
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• Western Michigan Call for a free evaluation of your community's potential at 239-206-2000. To apply or learn more, visit Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com. This information is not intended as an
