Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay December 2021 Edition

E E HEALTHY LIVING FR

HEALTHY

PLANET

HOLIDAY ISSUE

FESTIVE TREATS WITHOUT SUGAR • CELEBRATING THE SOUL OF WINTER THE HEALING POWER OF A SACRED CIRCLE • SIX WAYS TO STAY HEALTHY CHOOSE SAFE TOYS A DOG WILL LOVE • ECO-TIPS FOR A SUSTAINABLE KITCHEN December 2021 | Tampa Bay-Edition | NATampa.com

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PL ANET

TAMPA BAY EDITION

Publisher Debbey Wilson Editor Cheryl Hynes

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Contributing Writer Eleanor Bailey Sales & Marketing Debbey Wilson

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When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself. ~Tecumseh

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Contents

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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24 CIRCLES OF HEALING

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The Power of Gathering in Community

26 HOLIDAY ZEN

Stress-Free Fitness and Self-Care

28 AMP UP IMMUNITY Proven Boosters for Good Health

30 GREENING THE HOLIDAYS

How to Celebrate Sustainably

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32 THOMAS MOORE on the Art of Soulful Listening

34 THE BEST BOOKS FOR KIDS

Gift Choices that Can Open Up Worlds

36 THE SWEET DANGER OF SUGAR

Ways to Enjoy Healthier Holiday Fare

40 TOYLAND FOR

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POOCHES

Choosing Safe Playthings a Dog Will Love

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DEPARTMENTS 12 news briefs 16 health briefs 18 global briefs 26 fitbody 28 healing ways 30 green living

32 34 36 40 43 44

wise words healthy kids conscious eating natural pet calendar resource guide

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letter from publisher

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he heart of this winter month presents unique opportunities to express love and appreciation for cherished family, friends and colleagues. December traditions include Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and of course the grand finale, New Year’s Eve. Good times.

This month, we are graced with longtime advocate for conscious living, Thomas Moore. His recently published Soul Therapy: The Art and Craft of Caring Conversations was scribed as “We need more therapeutic conversations in all areas of life….” Writer Marlaina Donato asks the author and Jungian-based psychotherapist, what gives him hope for humanity. Read the response in the article, Thomas Moore on the Art of Soulful Listening—a key healing step for mankind.

“Adaptogens are plants that keep the body in balance by helping it adapt to stress. They interact with the hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis, a complex system of glands, hormones and receptors that helps manage homeostasis, stress responses and energy metabolism.” They also boost immunity. Health writer Ronica O’Hara’s Amp Up Immunity is a very brief but packed read with descriptions on a few natural medicines to try out.

In Circles of Healing: Gathering in Community, Senior Staff Writer Linda Sechrist broaches how nature-focused healing might be found in local circles of connection. Included in the article is our own Douglas Bonar, a 35-year veteran of mental health counseling and owner of A Center for Wellness, in Pinellas Park, who has been facilitating men’s groups for 22 years.

As always, with an open heart, an open mind and the yearn to learn, I hope you enjoy reading on.

Whether it’s the best

of times or the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got. ~Art Buchwald

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news briefs

Studio 108 Has Moved to a Brand New Location

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t is with much excitement that Studio 108 announces their move to a brand new location at 12512 Rawhide Drive, Tampa. The studio will continue to hold their 200, 100 and 40 Hour YA Teacher Trainings with Missy White.

White is an E-RYT 500, the owner of Studio 108, the creator of the 108 Asana series and a Yogavated Athletic ambassador. She has taught workshops and at conferences all over the world, from Yoga Journal Live to Sri Lanka to the Om Yoga Shows in Manchester and London. In 2004, she traveled to LA and completed her first 500-hour teacher training at Bikram’s Yoga College of India. Since then, she has trained with many teachers, including David Swenson, Cameron Shayne, Shiva Rae, Ana Forrest, Desiree Rumbaugh, Duncan Wong, Andrey Lappa and more. She has also completed Yoga 200RYT Certification, Yoga 500RYT Certification and Yoga 1000CYT Certification.

For more information and/or to register, call 813-3438887 or visit Studio108Tampa.com. See ad page 27.

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‘Your Unlimited Mind’ Online Event Benefits Veterans

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egin 2022 on a positive UP note from the comfort of home with “Your Unlimited Mind” 18th Annual World Hypnotism Day event, from 1 to 6 p.m., January 9, featuring top international experts in medical hypnotherapy, neuro linguistic programming (NLP), positive psychology, energy healing and more.

Can’t attend? No problem! Basic Registration of $45 includes access to videos of event.

VIP Registration of $75 includes full access to all videos, handouts, scripts and materials, plus two free gifts. Download your choice of books—Mind-Body Cohesion: The Key to Unlimited Possibilities or Scripts, Tips & Tidbits for the Evolving Hypnotist—and also a gratis hypnosis recording, “Recycle Stress into Positive Energy”, ($65 value), all by Patricia V. Scott, PhD. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

A Certified Master Trainer, Scott, of UP Hypnosis Institute, hosts an impressive list of international presenters, including Michael Watson, Peter Blum and others. Drop in for a while or attend all interactive events for continuous educational seminars and Q&A’s. Learn how these integrative techniques are used for chronic pain, anxiety-PTSD, immune response, sports, weight, smoking, memory, cancer, allergies and more.

Everyone will enjoy and benefit from this event for personal and professional development. Discover the amazing power of “Your Unlimited Mind”.

For details and to register, call 727-943-5003, email UPHypnosis@ Outlook.com and/or visit UPHypnosis.com. See ad page 33.

Local Visionary Returns

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ana Hendricks, a Florida native and beacon of light in the local conscious community, has returned after traveling and teaching around the globe for the past 10 years. In 1999, Hendricks’ instantaneous awakening catapulted her into the unseen worlds where all the subtle fields of energy became visible to her. She can see the aura and the soul light of every living being.

In 2002, Hendricks opened the Earth Spirit Center, in downtown Safety Harbor, and it quickly became a meeting place for the local conscious community. After a few years of running the center, she received guidance to close the brick and mortar business and take her services to other areas. She began traveling and continued meeting new communities and weaving them together through a network of hOMe bases.

Now, after a decade of living the nomadic missionary life, Hendricks has returned home, settling down again in Pinellas County. As an Intuitive Visionary, Spiritual Teacher and Conscious Life Coach, her passion is helping people find a deeper connection with themselves and to transform the challenges in life into blessings in disguise.

Offering weekly meditations, personal consultations, monthly inner alchemy groups, and women’s groups, Hendricks can be found at Dunedin Health and Wellness, and in two Gulfport locations—Zaiya’s and SumitrA’s.

For more information, call/text 828-337-5512, email NanaHendricks@gmail.com or visit NanaHendricks.com. See ad page 43.

Spirit Fest Metaphysical Fair Comes to Lakeland

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he Spirit Fest: Metaphysical and Holistic Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., January 8 and 9, 2022, at the RP Funding Center, in Lakeland. There will be 100 booths with vendors, practitioners, readers, artists, authors and demonstrations.

“We’re very excited to be bringing Spirit Fest to Lakeland,” says producer Mary Ellen Popyk. “As our reputation has grown, many people have asked us to come to the area.

You’ll find some of the best intuitive readers in the country, plus crystals, jewelry, spiritual supplies, holistic health specialties, natural products and much more.”

Speakers and special guests are scheduled throughout both days on a variety of topics. There will also be special guests, workshops and things for kids. Many vendors speak Spanish.

The entrance fee is $10 per day or $15 for the weekend.

Ages 12 and under attend free. Parking is $10 per car, but you’ll receive $5 off admission with your parking receipt.

Location: 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland. For more information, call 321-313-2543 and/or visit SanctuaryFL.com.

See ad page 19.

December 2021

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32nd Annual ‘Say No To Drugs’ Holiday Classic 5K/10K

Nature’s Food Patch Teams with HEP and Dunedin Cares

he 32nd annual Say No To Drugs Holiday Classic 5K/10K is back after missing 2020 due to Covid-19. This Charity Race will take place on December 18, at Sand Key Park, in Clearwater, as a “leftover” race where runners will choose from previous year’s shirts and medals while enjoying a beautiful race within the park. A kids’ one-mile race will follow the 5K/10K. The Say No To Drugs race is put on each year by non-paid volunteers and is funded solely from donations from local businesses as well as from registration fees. All proceeds go to charities such as Police Athletic League, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and more.

“We are so happy to have racing back this year, after so many being shut down last year with the pandemic, and we look forward to seeing you at Sand Key Park on December 18 to help forward such a positive, anti-drug awareness race,” shares Sue Minkoff, co-director. “So many of our lives have been affected by the use of illegal drugs or the misuse of legal drugs, and we are doing whatever we can to help educate people and help them lead better lives.”

For more information, visit SayNoToDrugs.com.

o feed those in need this holiday season, and for the eighth year in a row, Nature’s Food Patch Market & Café (aka The Patch), in Clearwater and Downtown Dunedin, is collecting healthy foods to donate to families in need.

From November 1 through December 31, customers may purchase a prepackaged $10 bag of natural and healthy food which The Patch will donate directly to the corresponding charity. Donations from the Clearwater store go to the Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP) and donations from the Dunedin location go to Dunedin Cares Food Pantry. Donated are foods which the charities most need during the holidays, including canned goods and holiday fare. Last year, The Patch and its customers collected over $16,000 worth of food for the two charities.

Additionally, The Patch will be giving their November and December “Ban the Bag, Bring Your Own!” donation to the charities. Since 2008, they have not used plastic bags in their stores, encouraging customers to bring their reusable totes for groceries. Five cents per bag is donated to a different charitable organization each month.

Locations: 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727-443-6703; 966 Douglas Ave., Dunedin, 727-304-1010. NaturesFoodPatch.com.

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December 2021

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Avoid Antibiotics to Lower Colon Cancer Risk

Eat Walnuts to Reduce Bad Cholesterol and Heart Disease

andreea ch /Pexels.com

Healthy older adults that ate about a half cup of walnuts every day for two years gained a modest reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad cholesterol”, reports a study of 636 people from San Diego’s Loma Linda University. Other risk factors for heart health—small LDL particles and intermediate-density lipoprotein— also decreased, signaling a lower chance of cardiovascular events. “Many people are worried about unwanted weight gain when they include nuts in their diet,” says study co-author Emilio Ros, M.D., Ph.D. “Our study found that the healthy fats in walnuts did not cause participants to gain weight.”

A clear link exists between taking antibiotics for six months and developing colorectal cancer in the next five to 10 years, report researchers from Umea University, in Sweden. By comparing the records of 40,000 Swedish cancer patients to 200,000 people without cancer, they found that taking antibiotics for at least six months increased the risk of cancer by 17 percent in the ascending colon, the first part to be reached by food after the small intestine. However, no increased risk was found for cancer in the descending colon. Those taking the most antibiotics had the greatest risk, but even a single course was associated with a small, but statistically significant risk increase. “While in many cases antibiotic therapy is necessary and saves lives, in the event of less serious ailments that can be expected to heal anyway, caution should be exercised,” says Umea University researcher Sophia Harlid, Ph.D. ana terevich/Pexels.com

health briefs

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Try Damask Rose Extract to Boost Liver Function The fragrant Damask rose (Rosa damascene), a common ingredient in essential oils and perfumes, has been used for a millennia in the Middle East to treat chest pain, menstrual bleeding, heart weakness and digestive ailments. A new study by Iranian researchers has found that it also boosts liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

The 37 participating patients that took 500 milligrams of rose petal extract daily for 12 weeks had significantly better serum ALT (liver enzyme) levels compared to the placebo group. The rose extract also reduced triglycerides, lowdensity lipoproteins and blood pressure, and it significantly improved metabolic syndrome markers.

The deep visceral fat that surrounds internal organs is a major indicator of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, but it can be decreased in women by eating an avocado each day, report researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

For 12 weeks, 105 overweight or obese men and women were fed a meal that for only half of the participants included an avocado. The women that ate avocados experienced a reduction in visceral abdominal fat, as well as a reduced ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat closer to the skin, indicating a redistribution of fat away from the organs. Fat distribution in males did not change.

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Eat an Avocado Daily to Redistribute Belly Fat

Try Garlic to Relieve Endometriosis Pain

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For women suffering from pelvic and back pain associated with endometriosis (uterus growth), garlic may help. In an Iranian study published in the journal Evidence-Based Alternative and Complementary Medicine, half of a group of 60 women with the disorder were given 400 milligrams of garlic in tablets daily, and the others received a placebo. Over a span of three months, researchers found that the women taking the garlic tablets had significantly less pelvic and back pain, as well as significant reductions in discomfort during menstruation and sexual intercourse.

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Drink More Water to Help Prevent Heart Disease

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Staying well hydrated throughout life could reduce the risk of heart failure, according to a study presented at the European Society of Cardiology 2021 Congress. Researchers from the U.S. National Institutes of Health reported that people that drink sufficient water every day have a reduced risk of the thickening of the heart’s left ventricle. Their conclusion was based on the analysis of 26 years’ worth of serum sodium levels in 15,792 middle-age Americans.

Higher serum sodium concentration in midlife was associated with heart failure and left ventricular hypertrophy 25 years later. Few people meet daily hydration recommendations (54 to 71 ounces for women and 67 to 101 ounces for men). According to the researchers, when people drink less fluid, the concentration of sodium in the blood increases, and the body attempts to conserve water by activating processes known to contribute to the development of heart failure. “The findings indicate that we need to pay attention to the amount of fluid we consume every day and take action if we find that we drink too little,” says study author Natalia Dmitrieva.

December 2021

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Holy Smoke!

global briefs Planting 500 Billion Trees

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The UK tech company Dendra claims their drone can plant two trees per second using artificial intelligence for guidance in an effort to re-green the Earth. Their ambitious goal is to plant 500 billion trees by 2060 with 400 teams of two drone operators and 10 drones per team. The plan would plant 10 billion trees per year 10 times more cheaply than planting by hand, especially in remote areas.

First, the replanting areas are identified using a combination of satellite images and drone-collected data. Then, specialized drones carrying seedpods that contain a germinated seed and nutrients use pressurized air to fire the seeds into the ground once in proper position as determined by an algorithm. The seedpods penetrate the ground and start to grow when activated by precipitation.

The World Wildlife Fund estimates the planet is losing 27 football fields of forest every minute due to deforestation. Dendra CEO Susan Graham says, “We need to use technology to scale up our restoration efforts, and the scale we’re talking about is tens of billions of trees every year. We’ll be able to see the ecosystems that we’ve restored from space.”

University of Rhode Island research published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters describes a new technique for measuring the presence of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in indoor air, which found them in kindergarten classrooms, offices, laboratories and a home. We have known about toxic “forever chemicals” in food and drinking water, and it seems they are also ubiquitous in the air.

PFAS are a class of approximately 9,000 chemicals used to improve stain, water or heat resistance in products. The public health concern is that they don’t break down in the environment. PFAS accumulate in animals and humans and are linked to health impacts including cancer, birth defects and immune suppression.

The scientists think PFAS enter the atmosphere when compounds break off of treated products like coats or carpets and attach to dust. “It’s an underestimated and potentially important source of exposure to PFAS,” says study co-author and Green Science Policy Institute Senior Scientist Tom Bruton.

According to the Institute, schools and offices can protect students and employees by replacing carpeting, but that doesn’t prevent PFAS from entering via coats or shoes. Bruton writes, “As long as they continue to be used in products, we’ll all be eating, drinking and breathing PFAS. We need to turn off the tap and stop all unnecessary uses of PFAS as soon as possible.”

Shine On

Large-Scale Solar Power Cost Plummets

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A report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) describes a significant decrease in the cost of renewable energy sources compared to 2020, with solar leading the pack by a wide margin. The 10year average adjusted costs of generation for a plant over its lifetime are 85 percent for utility-scale solar; 56 percent for onshore wind; 48 percent for offshore wind; and 68 percent for concentrated solar power. IRENA continues to see drops of between 7 percent and 16 percent in these categories this year. According to the same report, the 62 percent of new renewables added last year had lower costs than the cheapest fossil fuels.

New renewables are increasingly competitive against existing fossil fuels. In the U.S., 61 percent of current coal capacity already has higher operating costs. Phasing out these coal plants would start saving money almost immediately. IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera states that because renewables cost more upfront than keeping old coal rolling, action is needed to make sure emerging economies are not left behind. “We are far beyond the tipping point of coal.”

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Forever Chemicals in Indoor Air

Green Future

Peaceful Settlement

Native Americans Win Historic Water Battle

EDIBLES NOW AVAILABLE

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PRE-CERTIFICATION BY PHONE, NO NEED TO LEAVE HOME. The Indigenous Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have reached an historic $1.9 billion water rights settlement with Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, resolving thousands of tribal claims to waterways in Montana. The largest of its kind, this agreement authorizes funding to modernize the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project, a 1,300-mile network of aging canals. It also provides funding for habitat restoration and transfers control of the National Bison Range to the tribes. The dispute stems from the 1855 Treaty of Hellgate, which created the 1.25-million-acre reservation.

The agreement establishes a Flathead Reservation Water Management Board to govern water use within the reservation. Two members of the board will be chosen by the tribe, two will be chosen by the governor of Montana and a fifth will be chosen by the four appointed members. Tribal Chairwoman Shelly R. Fyant says, “Our elders continually remind us to protect our water, and this day marks the beginning of the water compact implementation that will protect the water for all generations to come.”

Ryan Rusche, an attorney for the tribes, says, “The settlement provides water to fulfill the purpose of the reservation, which is a permanent homeland for the tribes, while at the same time protecting existing non-Indian uses of water on the reservation where there is a significant irrigationbased economy.”

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eco tip

Sustainable Kitchen Advice for Buying and Storing Food

AT THE GROCERY STORE Food waste is environmentally problematic, producing a significant amount of greenhouse gases. Before entering the grocery store, plan meals for the week and build a shopping list to prevent overbuying.

Buy staples like nuts, beans, flours, grains, dried fruit and chocolate chips in bulk, carrying them home in reusable cotton sacks that can be purchased from artisans on Etsy.com. Some grocery stores offer paper bags in the bulk aisle; choose these over plastic and save them for subsequent uses.

Many of us have stopped drinking bottled water to ditch single-use plastics.

Consider expanding that effort by forgoing packaged products that can be made easily from scratch, including salad dressings, breads, hummus, nut milks, nut butters, jams, tortilla chips and granola.

Some food companies employ eco-friendly packaging, setting an example for the rest of the industry. Read labels not just for ingredients, but for packaging practices, too. For example, look for shelf-stable dried goods packaged in recycled cardboard boxes printed with vegetable-based inks. While loose tea is the most sustainable choice, we can also opt for compostable tea bag brands that don’t use strings, staples or individual wrappers.

IN THE KITCHEN One of the most elegant and traditional storage solutions is the Mason jar. It’s an inexpensive, reusable, versatile option, not just for canning and preserving foods, but also for storing bulk pantry items or refrigerated leftovers.

While paper towels and napkins may be biodegradable, an Earth-friendlier choice is reusable washcloths and fabric napkins that are easily washed in the laundry. Avoid ones that come in plastic wrapping. Darker colors will hide stains better, but if they help save the planet, embrace the stains.

Several options exist to avoid plastic wrap and disposable plastic containers, including reusable silicone freezer bags, beeswax wraps, glass spray bottles and stainless steel canisters. Keep and reuse grocery store jars. Soaking them to remove the labels is easy.

A bristled, wooden dish brush is preferable to petroleum-based disposable sponges that come wrapped in plastic. They last longer, don’t produce as much bacteria and are capable scrubbers. Use bar soap to avoid plastic dishwashing liquid containers.

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As we awaken to the climate crisis, we are called to participate in its solutions. In addition to frequenting farmers’ markets, much can be done at the grocery store and in the kitchen. By adopting these easy practices incrementally, we’ll be living zero-waste lifestyles before we know it.

Breezy Solution

Marine Crisis

Cornell University research published in the journal Climate indicates that advanced wind energy strategies could reduce atmospheric average temperatures of about 32 to 33 degrees Fahrenheit by 2199.

Rebecca Barthelmie, a professor in the Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, says, “Early action will reap dividends. In terms of averting the worst of climate change, our work confirms that accelerating wind energy technology deployment is a logical and costeffective part of the required strategy.” The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Working Group I Sixth Assessment Report has determined that climate change is rapid and intensifying, and that Earth’s atmosphere could add 35 degrees Fahrenheit of average warming by 2040.

Sara C. Pryor, a professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and co-author of the research, says global wind resources exceed current electricity demand and the cost of energy from wind turbines has declined sharply. “It makes perfect sense to rapidly deploy wind energy as a key part of decarbonizing the electricity supply.” Wind turbines are now deployed in 90 countries, generating about 7 percent of global electricity.

Tyler Eddy, a research scientist who co-authored a new study at the Memorial University of Newfoundland, says, “Coral reefs have been in decline worldwide. We didn’t necessarily know the magnitude of how much.” The in-depth analysis reveals half of coral reefs have been lost since the 1950s. Climate change, overfishing and pollution are decimating coral reef cover, biodiversity and fish abundance. In another study, scientists with the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network determined the world lost 14 percent of its coral between 2009 and 2018 alone.

Coral reefs provide habitat for fish and protection for coastal communities, and they generate billions of dollars for the fishing and tourism industries. Corals are extremely sensitive to changes in water temperature and acidity. The living polyps rely on zooxanthellae—algae that live in their tissue—to produce food the corals need.

When the polyps are stressed by changes in light, water temperature or acidity, they expel the algae in a process called bleaching. There is a brief time frame in which they can replenish the algae, but if corals are stressed for too long, their death is irreversible.

Coral Reefs May Soon Be Just a Memory

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Wind Energy Can Be a Climate Change Hero

December 2021

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Premenstrual Tension Syndrome (PMS) Why Natural Progesterone is Your Best Option

by Les Cole, MD

L

ast month I discussed PMS, which is caused by a mismatch between your estrogen and progesterone. During the first half of your cycle, estrogen stimulates the growth of the uterine lining and wall, as well as your breast tissue. During the second half of your cycle, after ovulation, your ovaries produce enough progesterone to offset the effects of estrogen. This prevents continued growth of your uterine lining and wall and breast tissue so that when your period begins, you have normal flow and no cramping and no breast tenderness and emotional dysregulation the week before. This also helps prevent increased risk for endometriosis, fibroids, fibrocystic breast disease, and breast and uterine cancers.

But, if you have PMS, your ovaries produce less progesterone than estrogen during the second half of your cycle, causing PMS symptoms and increasing the above risks. This imbalance, called Estrogen Dominance, is the root cause of PMS. Because you are low in progesterone, the ideal treatment is progesterone—completely bioidentical to your own progesterone, and which is an extract from yams.

A recent article states “combined estrogen and progestin oral contraceptives, as well as progestin-only preparations (oral contraceptives, implants or injections) are widely used for contraception, but they are also indicated in menorrhagia, endometri-

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Topical progesterone may be sufficient to treat some of your PMS symptoms, but for more severe symptoms—especially emotional dysregulation— oral progesterone can be much more effective. osis, acne and hirsutism, fibroid uterus and premenstrual syndrome. However, they have been associated with high rates of cardiovascular events, venous thromboembolic disease, ischemic strokes and breast cancer.” Progestins (non-bioidentical forms of synthetically altered progesterone) are also known to cause emotional dysregulation. Most of the conditions for which oral contraceptives are used, other than birth control, can more safely be treated with bioidentical progesterone.

Most patients who come to St. Pete Health & Wellness with women’s health issues have seen another doctor first and been treated with birth control pills (BCP)—because that, unfortunately, is the standard of care. They come because they are not happy with that treatment choice, or it isn’t working adequately, or it is causing other problematic symptoms. They state they have not been offered bioidentical progesterone and have not been informed of the associated risks and side efNATampa.com

fects. If you want birth control pills as your form of birth control and are informed of the alternative forms and the risks, that is one thing. But if you have PMS, you can now see that bioidentical progesterone is not only the safest treatment, but also helps reduce the risk for multiple other women’s health issues.

Topical progesterone may be sufficient to treat some of your PMS symptoms, but for more severe symptoms— especially emotional dysregulation—oral progesterone can be much more effective.

If your emotional dysregulation is the most severe of your symptoms and starts at ovulation and lasts through the beginning of your period, you may have Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which is not the same as PMS as it has a different cause.

You do not want progesterone as it will make PMDD worse.

If you have PMS, you don’t need to.

If you have PMS, you are at risk for other women’s health issues. If you have PMS, you don’t need to take the risks associated with BCPs unless you also want this form of birth control. Call St. Petersburg Health & Wellness to safely stop your PMS symptoms and prevent future health issues.

To learn more and/or to make an appointment, call 727-202-6807. St. Petersburg Health & Wellness is located at 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg. See ad right.

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The Power of Gathering in Community

by Linda Sechrist

H

ad the intellectual achievements of human culture evolved during a revolution based on living systems in the natural world rather than one of rapid industrial growth and resource consumption, we might be experiencing interconnectedness instead of divisiveness during this time of social and ecological crisis.

A nature-focused revolution embracing humans as an integral part of the Earth’s natural systems would have instilled a deeper understanding of the wonders of the human body as a living system imbued with inner intelligence, as well as the intelligence of the non-human living world. This perspective, held by Native Americans, would have helped to create sustainable human communities that flourish by connecting, collaborating, cooperating and communicating.

With such approaches as wisdom circles, story circles, power of eight intention circles, support groups, prayer circles and dialogue circles exploring conflict solutions, Western minds are just beginning to comprehend how small-community experiences of fellowship and communion can assuage feelings of separation and isolation, and create inner experiences of wholeness and belonging.

Mentoring Each Other Although not always sharing a common geographical location, 24

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small communities formed around common interests and shared values enable emotional healing. The ManKind Project (MKP), which describes itself as a “men’s community for the 21st century,” has more than 1,000 peer-facilitated groups in 22 countries in which men mentor each other through their life passages.

“In our MKP communities, there’s a sense of shared commitment and the shared values of accountability, authenticity, compassion, generosity, integrity, respect, leadership and multicultural awareness, along with a shared vision pointing us in the direction we want to go together,” says Boysen Hodgson, MKP-USA communications director. “While MKP’s mission statement informs our work, in New Warrior Adventure training, each man creates a personal mission statement. Mine is, ‘I transform culture by designing change, building bridges and co-creating space for connection.’”

According to Hodgson, when a man shares how he hears his inner voice for the first time along with his story in another man’s story, he becomes aware of his interior capacities and cultivates internal and external listening skills. By sharing personal stories, men experience epiphanies that can result in connections and bonding.

Douglas Bonar, a 35-year veteran of mental health counseling and owner of A Center for Wellness, in Pinellas Park, Florida, has been facilitating men’s groups for 22 years. Men and occasionally women that have been court-ordered to undergo counseling with

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Circles of Healing

Bonar for 29 weeks after their incarceration learn the value of growing together in community. “I initiate the uninitiated who’ve never heard about the powerful impacts of respectful, attentive listening without judgement, giving/receiving feedback and support, and learning about successes and failures in the company of community,” says Bonar. “Actively engaging the minds, hearts and energy of people participating in community makes experiencing emotional healing possible. Feeling truly heard and deeply listened to and comprehending life from a multisensory human perception and a sense of oneness can lead to understanding that we are never alone, the universe is alive—conscious, intelligent and compassionate.”

More about progress than perfection, Bonar’s unique Roots and Wings Way of Wholeness approach to healing in community tills the soil of an inner world and plants seeds via the introduction of guidelines for creating authentic power, spiritual growth, levels of consciousness, coherence, the realization of one’s true self as more than an enculturated personality, the Noetic experience of oneness, humans as energetic beings, emotions as energy in motion and a coherent energetic field that the HeartMath Institute notes creates synchronization, or entrainment, between the heart and mind, as well as a sense of unity.

Sharing Sacred Space Jean Shinoda Bolen, a Jungian psychiatrist, activist and author of Moving Toward the Millionth Circle: Energizing the Global Women’s Movement, encourages everyone to follow a path with soul and take on a personal assignment that contributes to change, while relying on the support of circle communities of like-minded individuals. “Fundamental principles applicable to any group include creating sacred space, listening with compassion and for wisdom, speaking from the heart and personal experience, inviting silence and reflection when needed, taking responsibility for your experience and your impact on the circle, keeping the confidence of the circle and making decisions when needed by consensus,” says Bolen, whose active events include a prayer circle and another with women she has been together with since the 1980s.

“The more frequently a circle meets to fully witness one another’s life stories, including all the changes and crises, a growing trust and heart connection occurs and a coherent energy field is created,” says Bolen. At the beginning of her circle gatherings, upon hearing the tone of a Tibetan bowl, she says, everyone immediately drops into coherence; a state of connectedness in which the whole is greater than the sum of the individual parts.

Cultivating Deep Listening As the host of New Dimensions, a nationally syndicated radio program that addresses cultural shifts, Justine Willis Toms has deeply explored interconnectedness with some of the greatest minds on the planet, including the Dalai Lama and physicist David Bohm.

Referring to her circle communities as “friends of the heart,” she enthuses, “When I am deeply listening to another or speaking authentically aloud in a circle of trust, I get to hear myself in a way that I don’t if I’m only listening to what is in my head.”

Recalling a tumultuous time in her life, Toms relates a profound healing experience that occurred in a circle community in which she and her husband had been participating since the 1980s. “This particular circle usually gathers for an entire weekend. On one, I arrived in deep distress—so much so that on Friday I began pouring out my fears, anxiety, blame and judgements. I raged through the night and didn’t stop until after breakfast on Saturday, when I felt complete, totally heard, emotionally healed and revived.”

From a sense of peace and clarity, Toms knew that healing occurred because of the circle’s capacity for deep listening. “We know and trust the true genius that each of us is, and we know how to not be afraid for each other when life is in a rollercoaster cycle and we’re at the bottom, but don’t want to pull the brake because we’ll never have the momentum to go back up. This is the power of a circle of friends of the heart who love you,” says Toms, who shares a favorite African saying, “‘A friend is someone who knows your song and sings it to you when you have forgotten it.

Those who love you are not fooled by the mistakes you’ve made or the dark images you hold about yourself. They remember your beauty when you feel ugly, your wholeness when you are broken, your innocence when you’re feeling guilty and your purpose when you are confused.’”

Connecting through Common Emotions Physician Jennifer Phelps, owner of Phelps MD Integrative Medicine, in Redding, Connecticut, is a trained facilitator of small groups who has worked in communities traumatized by natural disasters and human-caused catastrophes in her role as a faculty member of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, in Washington, D.C. “Where individuals listen to the grief and loss of others, emotional healing can be quite profound. Sharing stories in community, we learn we’re not alone and isolated, but rather related and connected in our human emotions,” says Phelps, adding that in groups of fewer than six people cohesiveness dissipates, leaving only conversation and cross-talk.

The process of human and community development unfolds from within each person, relationship and community. According to Cate Montana, of Kula, Hawaii, author of The E-Word: Ego, Enlightenment & Other Essentials, awakening to the illusion of separation, which can happen in community, sparks healing.

“The persona of an individual as only a body and mind is the big sleep,” advises Montana, whose life work has been about waking people up to the truth of their essential spiritual nature and giving them tools for a more fulfilling life.

Having experiences of fellowship and communion with likeminded people can make it possible to observe and understand how ego and mind function, and to become aware of crippling social programming which fragments, separates and divides us.

Experiencing a sense of wholeness in such an environment allows for healing naturally on many levels.

Linda Sechrist is Natural Awakenings’ senior staff writer. Connect at LindaSechrist.com.

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fit body

HOLIDAY ZEN

Stress-Free Fitness and Self-Care

by Maya Whitman

D

espite our best efforts, holiday time can frazzle our nerves and snag us in an unhealthy loop of overindulgence. To combat holiday pressure, the Mayo Clinic suggests maintaining a regular exercise program and investing in me-time activities like meditation and deep breathing.

Movement and simple self-care, even for a few minutes, can lower cortisol levels that often contribute to excessive food cravings. Walking, going for a run, lifting weights, or getting into the pool or onto the yoga mat can help us enjoy the season with less angst.

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Cancelling Guilt, Staying Healthy

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With simple strategies, enjoying the office party dessert table doesn’t have to get us off track. “One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself when reaching for a cookie is to be in full approval of eating it. Let your experience of eating it be clean, present and so free of resistance that you can really experience it,” says Maria Miller, a spiritual life coach in Oceanside, California.

Stephanie Mansour, host of the weekly national PBS health and fitness show Step It Up with Steph, also opts for a no-stress approach, especially when it comes to working out. “When cortisol levels are through the roof, we crave fattening, salty or sweet foods. Studies have shown that people have a more positive body image just after five minutes of exercise,” says the Chicagobased wellness coach. “This mindset is huge when it comes to eating healthier and taming holiday cravings.”

Bolstering neurotransmitters through good nutrition can take the edge off the to-do list or a gloomy winter day. “When

we fuel our bodies with a variety of whole foods, we are also supporting healthy brain function, which has a direct impact on our emotions,” says Teigan Draig, a life coach in Spencerville, Ohio. Draig suggests berries, citrus fruits, fresh fish, turkey, walnuts, almonds, avocados and eggs to boost serotonin and dopamine levels, “which improve mood and help to reduce the effects of stress and anxiety on the body.”

Prioritizing Self Most of us are short on time, but committing to good health doesn’t require hours at the gym. “Many of my clients are looking for fast, simple workouts that they can squeeze in during the holidays,” says Mansour. “Set the timer for five minutes and get down on the floor to do ab exercises. Doing leg lifts, bicycle abs and crunches for five minutes is an excellent way to fire up the core.” She also suggests setting the morning alarm or going to sleep at night five minutes earlier to do some stretches in bed.

“If you’re cooking, you can do squats in the kitchen while a smoothie is blending or calf raises while stirring a pot on the stove.”

For Miller, putting on some music and dancing in the living room is a sure way to get a boost. She is also a fan of guiltfree, unplugged intervals of shut-eye: “Five-to-25-minute power naps are a great way to rest and recharge with a very high return on your investment of time.”

During the winter months, it can be easy to turn to screens for distraction and as a way to cope with the stress of the season.

Miller reminds us to nourish our souls and get out in nature to “notice the way the weather impacts your body, the way it feels to draw in a breath and how you’re part of a constant exchange with life through each breath you take.”

Inhaling Peace Conscious breathing makes the effects of workouts go further and halts the cascade of stress hormones. “Whatever fitness rou-

tine you’re doing is fine, just always breathe through your nose. Mouth breathing triggers cortisol release,” says Ed Harrold, breathwork and performance coach in Draper, Utah, and author of Life with Breath.

“When we slow the breath rate, we encourage a relaxation response. We can manage the release of cortisol by inhaling through the nose, slowly from the belly to the collarbone and exhaling slowly through the nose by gently drawing the belly back into the lower spine. This is called diaphragmatic breathing and is our proper breath, even during exercise.”

For nature, winter is a time of repose from which we can take a cue and enjoy the moment. Draig muses, “Mindfulness requires us to be present in the here and now, rather than worrying about the to-do list or stressing over holiday finances.”

Maya Whitman writes about natural health and living a more beautiful life. Connect at Ekstasis28@gmail.com.

December 2021

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healing ways

Amp Up Immunity Proven Boosters for Good Health

foxyliam/AdobeStock.com

by Ronica O’Hara

A

s we head into the holidays, a gift that many of us wish for is a strong immune system to protect us not only from serious illness, but also from wintry coughs and sniffles. Robust immunity rests on three pillars, research shows: getting at least seven hours of sleep a night to allow immune functions to reboot; daily exercise to stimulate the production of white blood cells that fight off harmful bacteria and viruses; and plant-based foods to supply the antioxidants and phytochemicals needed to reduce inflammation and keep cells humming happily.

In addition, we can enhance immunity by adding specific adaptogens and mushroom powders into our daily routine. These study-proven substances perform specific functions in the immune system that boost our resistance to illness. As powders, they can be easily added into drinks or foods, and they can also be taken as tinctures or pills.

Modulating Immunity with Adaptogens Used for millennia in China and India, adaptogens are plants 28

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that keep the body in balance by helping it adapt to stress. They interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a complex system of glands, hormones and receptors that helps manage homeostasis, stress responses and energy metabolism. “Adaptogens are a great way to boost immunity, especially if you are constantly sick and run down due to feeling stressed,” says Heather Hanks, a Plymouth, Michigan, nutritionist with USA Rx. Adaptogens typically take two or three weeks to become effective; follow package directions for proper dosage.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), an herb called locoweed in the U.S., boosts immune function by increasing natural killer cell activity and enhancing the function of macrophages, the “immune sentinels” that reside in tissues. A recent review suggests that long-term use of astragalus might help prevent colds, and taking it for up to six weeks may relieve seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itching and sneezing. It has also been shown to improve recovery after illness, disease or prolonged stress and to help post-chemotherapy patients regain health.

Polish researchers found that rowing team athletes given 500 milligrams of astragalus root extract each day for six weeks had immune systems that recovered faster after strenuous exercise.

Panax Ginseng, a perennial plant from East Asia, keeps the immune system in balance by regulating its components, including macrophages, dendritic cells and both T and B cells. It improves resistance to illness and microbial attacks, helps counter stress, controls inflammation, improves cognitive functions and has been found effective in the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, insulin resistance and hypertension.

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as holy basil, “enhances the immune response, protects the body against bacterial and viral infection and promotes clear and comfortable breathing,” says Ameya Duprey, a certified Ayurvedic practitioner in Nevada City, California. Studies show that it also helps prevent liver, kidney and brain injury by protecting against the genetic, immune and cellular damage caused by pesticides, pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.

The Marvel of Medicinal Mushrooms Used medicinally since at least 3,000 BCE, certain mushrooms have been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, anti-diabetic, liver-protective and anticancer properties. They are usually not cooked, but rather taken as a powder that can be added to foods like smoothies, cereals and stir-fries.

Reishi mushrooms increase the activity of killer cells and lower inflammation in white cells, warding off infections. “They are used by cancer patients, as they support a healthy immune system, have antioxidant properties and may prevent or treat infections,” says Linda Strause, Ph.D., an adjunct professor of human nutrition at University of California San Diego, whose husband with brain cancer was encouraged to take the mushrooms as a supplement.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensi) is harvested from the larvae of caterpillars in the high Himalayas. In a randomized, eight-week Korean study of 79 adults, supplementing with 1.7 grams of cordyceps extract daily led to a significant 38 percent increase in the activity of natural killer cells that protect against infection. It has been used traditionally to treat fatigue, sexual dysfunction, asthma, kidney problems, high blood pressure and weak hearts.

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) contains a compound called polysaccharide-K that stimulates the immune system. It also acts as a prebiotic, which promotes the health of the gut microbiome, a key player in immunity. A Harvard Medical School study of 22 healthy people found that taking 3,600 milligrams of polysaccharopeptide extracted from turkey tail mushrooms each day led to beneficial changes in gut bacteria and suppressed the growth of problematic E. coli and shigella bacteria.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†

Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@ gmail.com.

December 2021

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green living

Greening the Holidays How to Celebrate Sustainably

tanyajoy/AdobeStock.com

by Sandra Yeyati

W

ith every record-setting storm and catastrophic fire, more people are realizing that we are embroiled in a climate crisis. Consider this holiday season as an opportunity not just to make sustainable choices, but also to take strategic action that positively impacts the planet and inspires friends and family to join the environmental cause. Whether that means modifications to the holiday dinner, eco-friendly decorating tactics or responsible gifting, every environmental choice can be a teaching moment or conversation starter. Together, we can make a difference.

Eco-Friendly Holiday Dinner Growing fruits and vegetables is generally kinder to the Earth than the industrialized production of meat, which pollutes the environment and mistreats animals. Hosting a vegetarian holiday feast with locally sourced, organic produce is a great way to support regenerative farming systems, slash transportation emissions and introduce guests to new culinary traditions. If meat is a must, opt for sustainably wild-caught salmon or shrimp and pastured, organic turkey or chicken over beef, as cow production leads to significant methane emissions.

To conserve energy, use the oven or stove sparingly, opting instead for recipes that employ crockpots, air fryers, pressure cookers, outdoor barbecues or the microwave. For both health and environmental reasons, gently encourage smaller meat portions and fill 30

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the plate with scrumptious side dishes.

After the party, leftovers can be sent home with guests, turned into next-day lunches and soups or frozen for later use. Compost scraps to keep them out of the landfill.

Responsible Gift Wrapping Eliminating wrapping paper, bows, ribbons and greeting cards from the holiday equation is a great zero-waste lifestyle choice. Gifts can just as easily be wrapped in fabric, scarves and cloth napkins, or presented inside a reusable shopping bag.

Another alternative is to use wrapping materials and greeting cards that are biodegradable, from recycled origins or certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (fsc. org) to ensure they did not contribute to deforestation. Avoid papers with glitter,

foil and other decorations that may contain nonbiodegradable, petroleum-based elements. Glitter is usually made from plastic, contributing to the microplastics problem. When recycling, remove tape, bows and ribbons.

Earth-Friendly Holiday Decorations The most eco-friendly Christmas decoration is a potted, living tree that can be decorated and exhibited indoors during the holidays and planted in the garden afterwards. A mini-rosemary tree is also a fragrant tabletop alternative. Opt for LED string lights, which use a fraction of the energy that traditional lights require.

With the help of online instructional videos, families can come together to craft decorations out of biodegradable, recycled and consumable materials, including tree ornaments made of reclaimed wood or soda can tabs; garlands of popcorn, dried fruit slices or cinnamon sticks; wreaths and centerpieces studded with pine cones, herb branches and flowers from the garden; and candles made with essential oils and soy wax. The home will smell festive, fresh and healthful.

Thoughtful, LifeAffirming Gifts Environmentally responsible holiday shopping takes many forms. Some people pledge to buy nothing during Christmas and instead donate their holiday budgets to families in need. Others set out to buy gifts they know the recipient wants or needs to avoid waste. They shop at local, small businesses and choose durable, repurposed, easily repairable and upcycled items.

Thoughtful gifts that affirm a commitment to the planet are electric bicycles and comfortable hiking shoes to encourage slow transportation and healing walks in nature; solar-powered devices and chargers in support of renewable energy; consumable items and foods that won’t clutter the home or landfill; services and experiences that don’t need to be gift wrapped; and donations to environmental charities that are meaningful to the recipient.

Consider gifts that encourage loved ones to grow their own fruits, vegetables and herbs; plant shade trees in their backyards; and nurture flowering plants that support bees, butterflies and other pollinators— green-thumb gifts like herb planters, wildflower seed packets, garden tools, utility gloves and vegetable-growing instruction books.

Reusable Gifts that Ditch the Plastic

These reusable gifts make it easy and fun for recipients to be kind to the planet year-round by reducing our devastating dependence on single-use, nonbiodegradable plastic that pollutes the environment and harms aquatic wildlife. n Straws made of stainless steel, organic bamboo, silicone, biodegradable paper or glass n Water bottles and insulated containers made of stainless steel or glass n Food bags, wraps and bowl covers made of beeswax, silicone, cotton or canvas n Stainless steel plates and bamboo utensils for sustainable picnicking n Zero-waste shampoo, conditioner and body wash bars Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@ gmail.com.

December 2021

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wise words

Thomas Moore on the

Art of Soulful Listening

by Marlaina Donato

What inspired you to write Soul Therapy?

We need more therapeutic conversations in all areas of life, and my book is for the ordinary person, as well as the professional therapist. We could talk to each other with the intention of befriending and offering useful care. Medicine is in need of an injection of this therapeutic talking and listening to add soul and spirit to an otherwise materialistic approach to the human being.

Love and

compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. ~Dalai Lama

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homas Moore, New York Times bestselling author, Jungian-based psychotherapist, musician and former monk, has been an advocate for conscious living since authoring his first book, Care of the Soul: A Guide for Cultivating Depth and Sacredness in Everyday Life. Twenty-three books later, Moore breaks ground with his latest release, Soul Therapy: The Art and Craft of Caring Conversations, in which he invites therapists, psychiatrists, spiritual directors, ministers and caregivers to cultivate deeper connection based on soulful listening. His timeless wisdom inspires all of us to live from a state of spirituality and conscious wonder so that we might bridge the chasm between cultural, political and personal differences.

NATampa.com

photo by Simone Anne

What is soul therapy in modern times?

The ancient Greeks wrote extensively about the soul. Their word was psyche, so it takes very little effort to see how psychotherapy is about caring for the soul. The ancients felt that the soul’s natural home is in the “underworld”, and soul therapy sees it the same way. We are not interested in causing behavior changes or finding explanations for current problems. These don’t go deep enough. They do not touch the underworld, or deep narratives and memories of a person. For example, if a person complains that he eats too much, then we might go deep and see if the underlying issue is a failure to nourish his life and person. We look for metaphors and layers of meaning. We don’t want change for the sake of change. We don’t necessarily expect a person to feel better or be better adjusted to life. We stay close to the symptom, like eating too much, and hope to see it fulfilled at a deeper level, truly nourishing your life.

What soul work is required of the helper to be able to address the needs of others?

The helper in soul therapy has to learn to

observe carefully, and at a deep level, the narrative or story being lived out, often unconsciously, in a client. The arts, mythology, alchemy, dreams—these can all give hints about the deeper story being lived. The soul therapist does not give much advice, if any, and doesn’t try to figure a person out. He or she stays close to the symptoms to see what the pain and confusion are all about. A person gets to know better the desires and fears that motivate him, without judgment or agenda. You try to see where the soul might have been wounded or not cared for.

Why do you think there is a perceived increase in anxiety and depressive disorders?

Our underlying philosophy or way of seeing everything is based on quantified studies, brain and laboratory research and the need to explain and define everything.

There is no room for mystery and its language, which is poetic and metaphorical.

The soul suffers.

How can we truly listen to others and cultivate authentic presence?

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Contact us for ad rates.

727-865-9339

Today we often debate rather than converse. We want to win arguments rather than gain deep insight. You listen well only when you find peace in yourself and give up the need to be always right.

What gives you hope for humanity?

In spite of all our problems today, I am an optimist. Humanity is very slowly evolving into a more humane community of Earth beings. We have a long way to go. I see our young people today, many of them impatient to create a different kind of global culture, one that has the courage and vision to deal with our ecological crisis and create a peaceful political planet. They are not plagued with cynicism or despair. We can’t give up our idealism and surrender to pessimism. The world has always had deep troubles. The challenge should bring out all our creativity and passion for life.

Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at WildFlowerLady.com.

December 2021

33

healthy kids

The Best Books for Kids Gift Choices that Can Open Up Worlds

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by Sandra Yeyati

H

elping children learn to read and love books is one of the greatest parental endeavors. Many kids learn their first words after hearing the adults in their lives sing a lullaby or tell them a nursery rhyme. “Building a child’s vocabulary is the key to reading, and rhymes, singing, word games, synonyms, homonyms and rap are great places to start,” says Claudette McLinn, executive director of the Los Angeles-based Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature and former librarian, teacher, school administrator and children’s bookstore owner.

A child’s first reading experience will likely involve a picture book. “What’s powerful about picture books is that the illustrations and text intertwine,” McLinn explains.

“You can read them aloud together. As the child looks at the artwork, the adult can ask, ‘What is that?’ And the child can use their imagination while you teach them to observe, articulate and start the reading process.”

To encourage childhood reading, it’s helpful to have a variety of books around the house and to set aside reading time every day. “It costs nothing to check out a pile of 25

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books at the library, take them home and try them,” says Maeve Knoth, a librarian at Phillips Brooks School, in Menlo Park, California. When buying books, she suggests consulting librarians and booksellers for recommendations, as well as relying on book awards such as the Newbery or Caldecott medals, and on book lists compiled every year by reputable organizations and committees, notably the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association.

Choosing books for kids should always

start by discovering what their passions or interests are and then finding a good book on that subject, says McLinn, adding that encouraging children to browse the shelves and choose their own books is an empowering exercise that builds selfesteem and a love of reading. Whether it’s dinosaurs, cars or the stars and planets, there’s a kid’s book about it. “Although fiction is important early on because it increases imagination, nonfiction books help kids learn new information and understand the role of the table of contents, the glossary and index, and informative diagrams,” she says, adding that she prefers award-winning nonfiction books because they’ve been vetted for accuracy.

“Kids often gravitate toward books that are a little bit less challenging,” Knoth says. “While I have no objection to those popular books, which are lots of fun, they’re not going to give kids a new way to think about themselves or the world. I want my children to have consequential reading experiences with books that offer new points of view where kids can live in someone else’s heart and mind for a little while. I want them to know what it might be like to live in a different time period or to grow up in China.”

According to Knoth, a great children’s book will include an engaging character that has an experience, prompting them to change and grow. “I want it to be well structured and beautifully written, with setting, point of view and all those elements that fit together to create a theme and give you a literary experience,” she explains. She looks for nuanced books that invite kids to use their imagination and find their own way. “The reader might be young, but they’re not dumb.

They just haven’t had lots of experiences yet. If a book concludes with one narrow solution to a child’s problem, then I would say it’s not that useful or successful,” says Knoth, a frequent contributor to The Horn Book, a resource for children’s book reviews and articles.

McLinn believes that kids should be exposed to a diversity of authors and

illustrators that explore the lives of all cultures. “We live in silos with the people in our group, and we don’t know anything about other groups,” she explains.

“When you read about other cultures, you learn that we are more alike than we are different. We may eat different foods, wear different clothing and have different customs, but you find out that it’s not scary. Kids love to read about heroes that

they can identify with and become their friends. Children are into social justice and fairness. As a child, I loved biographies. I wanted to read about great people and what made them great so that maybe I could be great like them.”

Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@ gmail.com.

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December 2021

35

conscious eating

The Sweet Danger of Sugar ways to enjoy healthier holiday fare

by Christy Ratliff

azurita/AdobeStock.com

C

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hocolate Santas, decorated cookies and other sweet confections are ingrained in our holiday traditions, yet sugary food does little to actually make us feel merry and bright in the long run.

A high-sugar diet increases the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, inflammation, weight gain and weight-related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It can also contribute to tooth decay and acne. “Most high-sugar foods are ‘treats’ and are not intended to be high in nutrition or consumed instead of healthier foods,” says Shelley Maniscalco, registered dietitian and CEO of the consulting firm Nutrition on Demand, in Arlington, Virginia. “When we have too many foods that are what we call calorie-dense versus nutrient-dense, we run the risk of displacing healthier foods, and, therefore, under-consuming key nutrients.”

This can impact mental health and impair the body’s ability to manage stress. “When we eat nutritious foods, and our gut is healthy, we obtain necessary nutrients to create neurotransmitters, which are key to optimal mental health,” explains Maggie Roney, a licensed counselor and certified functional medicine provider in Wylie, Texas. “There’s mood-stabilizing serotonin, which is a precursor for melatonin, needed for sleep; dopamine, involved in pleasure, focus and motivation; and GABA, which provides a calming effect that can help with stress and anxiety. All of these require amino acids, zinc, iron, vitamin D, magnesium, copper and B vitamins.”

In moderation, sugar is not necessarily detrimental to our health and well-being, but differentiating between naturally occurring sugar and added sugar is key to finding a middle ground. “New changes in the food label allow consumers to more easily identify sources of sugar in foods,” Maniscalco says. “Many healthy foods naturally contain sugars, such as fructose in fruits and lactose in dairy products. These natural sugars don’t need to be avoided. When checking the label, look for amounts of added sugars and choose the options that have less.”

Foods and beverages with added sugars are now required to list the number of grams and percent daily value for added sugars on the nutrition facts label. For example, a container of yogurt with fruit on the bottom might list total sugars at 15 grams (g), including 7 g of added sugar, which means 8 g of naturally occurring sugars.

Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them.

–Ricardo Díaz In a society long obsessed with counting calories, we may assume we’re making smart choices with low-fat, non-fat, reduced calorie or light versions of grocery items. But, the amount of added sugar is actually higher in low calorie versions of a wide variety of foods because sugar is used to compensate for the loss of flavor from fat. “Sugar tastes good and balances out other flavors, so many foods that we wouldn’t consider sweet have added sugars,” says Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., bariatric program manager and senior research investigator at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Common products include pasta sauce, cereal and salad dressing. Reading food labels looking specifically for added sugars is key to finding these foods.”

“Hidden sugars are often found where we least expect them,” adds Ricardo Díaz, chef and registered dietitian nutritionist at the

New York-based nonprofit Wellness in the Schools, which works to improve nutrition in school lunches. “Many savory or salty foods tend to have added sugars, such as tortilla chips, popcorn, jerky and frozen prepared foods. Check your labels and compare between products on the supermarket shelves to find the healthiest pick for you and your loved ones.”

“Often, we think of eating in ‘all or nothing’ terms. When we cut out foods we enjoy, it often backfires and we end up overeating them in the end when our willpower runs out,” Maniscaclo says.

“I would really encourage mindfulness in eating so that individuals can enjoy treats in moderation and feel satisfied by them so that there’s less need to over consume. Also, being physically active year-round is a great habit to get into and can create more space in the diet for treats.”

As we implement these small but significant low-sugar strategies, we’ll be rewarded with better physical and emotional health all year long. That’s something to celebrate.

Christy Ratliff is a professional health and wellness writer based in Central Florida.

Tips to Eat Less Sugar

brent hofacker/AdobeStock.com

Shelley Maniscalco, MPH, RD: Eat fruit. Most are naturally sweet and provide healthy nutrients without a lot of calories. As an added bonus, the fiber and water content in fruit helps with feeling satiated.

Add spices and fresh herbs. Studies show that adding them enhances flavor, and it also lowers the use of such unhealthy nutrients as added sugars, sodium and saturated fats.

Colleen Tewksbury, Ph.D., RD: Choose plain yogurt, as it contains no added sugar. Top it with fresh fruit, cinnamon or nuts. Choose yogurt that contains live and active cultures, as these promote gut health and boost immunity.

maxim khytra/AdobeStock.com

Nearly a quarter of added sugars consumed come from sugar-sweetened beverages such as sodas and fruit drinks, even more than from desserts and sweets. A simple way of reducing added sugar is reducing intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. Three approaches are: setting a frequency goal (limit to x times per week); setting a portion goal (limit to x ounces per day); or setting a substitution goal (replace sugarsweetened beverages with sugar-free options).

Jennifer Martin-Biggers, Ph.D., RDN: To reduce sugar intake, as with any other new habit or behavior change, it’s important to set manageable goals and set new ones as you go.

Another way to support dietary changes is through supplementation. The mineral chromium, in particular in the form of chromium picolinate, has been shown in clinical studies to reduce food cravings. ronstik/AdobeStock.com

marilyn barbone/AdobeStock.com

Chef and dietitian nutritionist Ricardo Díaz: Swap out fruit juice cocktails and fruit juice concentrates for whole fruits and 100 percent fruit juice. Fruit beverages rely on added sugar to provide much of their sweetness.

Choose whole grains over enriched grains.

Include a variety of whole grains in your diet, such as oats, brown rice or whole-wheat pastas and breads.

To maximize fiber intake, pick products labeled “100% Whole Grains” over labels stating “Whole Grains” or “Multigrain”.

Make your own baked goods. Besides controlling the amount of sugar in your treats, baking at home is a great way to get your youngest family members involved in cooking.

Film Suggestion: Watch That Sugar Film, a 2014 Australian documentary/drama directed by Damon Gameau at WatchDocumentaries.com/ that-sugar-film. According to New York Times film critic Daniel M. Gold, “The food-doc shelf is crowded with good-for-you movies, including Fed Up, Fast Food Nation, Food Inc. and, yes, Super Size Me. That Sugar Film is a worthy addition, entertaining while informing.”

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Low- or No-Sugar Holiday Treats Baklava Cookie Cups 2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour 1 tsp orange zest ½ tsp ground cardamom ¼ tsp salt 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature ¾ cup honey 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

photo provided by allrecipes.com

filling and syrup:

½ cup pistachios, chopped ½ cup honey 3 Tbsp water 2 tsp orange juice 4 green cardamom pods, crushed 1 cinnamon stick

Heat oven to 350° F and grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, orange zest, cardamom and salt. In the bowl of a standing mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and honey for about 1-2 minutes. (The mix will look a little curdled at this point and that’s fine; scrape down the sides.) Beat in the eggs, then the vanilla. Mix in the flour in

two parts. Using a cookie scoop, scoop the dough into the prepared muffin tin and bake for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven; let sit for about 3-4 minutes before using a dowel to carefully press down in the center of each cookie to make a well. Let the cookies cool for about 15 minutes in the tin before removing to a cooling rack to cool completely. In a small saucepan over medium heat, prepare the syrup by combining the honey, water, orange juice, cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer and remove from the heat. Drizzle a small amount in the bottom of each cookie cup and then fill with the chopped pistachios. Drizzle more syrup on top of the filled cookie cups. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Courtesy of the National Honey Board. For more information, visit Honey.com.

Baked Apples

Preheat oven to 375° F. Wash apples.

Using an apple corer, remove cores and leave ½ inch of the bottom of each apple. (If using a paring knife, just cut the center core out fully.) Make the hole ¾-inch wide, and remove the seeds using a spoon. Place the cored apples in an 8-inch-by 8-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle lemon juice over apples to prevent browning. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon, chopped nuts and raisins or another dried fruit. Stuff each apple with the filling mixture. Top with a dot of butter (about ½ to ¾ tsp per apple). Add boiling water to baking pan.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until tender, but not mushy. Remove baked apples from the 38

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oven, and baste apples several times with the juice from the pan. (Apples can be baked in a muffin tin. Place muffin liners into the muffin tins, and place cored apples inside.)

Chef ’s Note: Personalize the baked apples with seasonal fillings and spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom or pumpkin pie spice. For a twist, try a savory, fresh herb like rosemary or thyme.

Courtesy of Wellness in the Schools. For more information, visit WellnessInThe Schools.org. roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

4 large Granny Smith baking apples Juice of one lemon (about ¼ cup) 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup chopped pecans or another nut of choice ¼ cup raisins or another dried fruit of choice 1 tsp butter ¾ cup boiling water

A Dietician’s Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark This dark chocolate bark recipe is holidaythemed with red, white and green toppings.

Other topping options include almonds, dried fruit, sunflower, pumpkin or hemp seeds or granola.

Pour melted chocolate onto the prepared baking tray. Spread to ⅛-inch thickness. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle with dried cranberries, chopped pistachios and shredded coconut. To set, place tray in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes or in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes.

Break the bark into pieces and serve.

Store extra pieces at room temperature in an airtight container.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Create a double boiler by placing a saucepan filled with a few inches of water and topped with a glass bowl over medium heat. Bring the water to a boil. Add two thirds of the chocolate and let melt, stirring until smooth. Take off the heat and stir in the remaining chocolate.

Courtesy of Jessica Bippen, MS, RD. For more information, visit HUMNutrition.com/blog. kolesnikovserg/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

6 oz dark chocolate ¼ cup raw pistachios ¼ cup dried cranberries 2 Tbsp shredded coconut

Honey Lavender Cookies This recipe was developed after lavender was accidentally weeded from the garden.

These cookies are made with honey and whole-wheat flour.

24 cookies

½ cup butter, softened ½ cup honey 1 egg 1 Tbsp lavender flowers 2 cups whole-wheat flour

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Beat butter in a bowl with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat honey, egg and lavender into the creamed butter until incorporated.

Stir flour, ½ cup at a time, into butter mixture until blended.

Drop spoonful of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven until cookies are browned on the bottom, about 15 minutes.

Courtesy of Sue B. For more information, visit AllRecipes. com.

roman samokhin/AdobeStock.com

photo provided by allrecipes.com

yield: about

December 2021

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natural pet

Toyland for Pooches Choosing Safe Playthings a Dog Will Love

by Karen Shaw Becker

M

error to determine what type their dog prefers—and which are safest—from a mind-blowing selection of tugs, balls, discs, chews, puzzles, squeaky or stuffed toys and more. Because many pet stores welcome dogs, some pet parents even bring their four-legged family members along and allow them to sniff out their favorites.

It’s important to select a dog’s toys carefully, because not every option is a good choice. For example, some dogs, especially large breeds, tend to rip soft toys apart within seconds to taste-test the stuffing.

There are also dogs that can swallow small soft toys whole. A pup’s temperament, size and age all play a role in determining which toys are safe, and there are also

considerations based on the toy itself, such as materials used, size, shape and more.

Potentially Toxic Toys Pet toys are not regulated, so they can be made with virtually any material. Plastic toys, in particular, can be dangerous, because many contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol-A (BPA). Old or weathered toys such as those left outside leach higher concentrations of harmful chemicals.

While BPA-free toys are available, the toxin may have been replaced with similar—or even more toxic—chemicals, including bisphenol-S (BPS), so “BPAfree” unfortunately isn’t a reliable indicator of toy safety. Other adulterants found in dog toys include heavy metals like lead and formaldehyde.

When looking for new

Arno/AdobeStock.com

ost healthy dogs retain their love of play throughout their lives. Because canine family members can be loosely compared to perpetual human toddlers, it makes sense that they enjoy playtime no matter their age.

Most dogs are also fascinated, at least temporarily, with toys made just for them.

Some love to chase a ball or Frisbee and others like a good game of tug or stuffed toys. Most dogs seem to enjoy playthings that squeak when they bite them, possibly because the noise brings to mind the sound of captured prey, or perhaps because pet parents give their dogs extra attention when they “get their squeak on”.

Most dogs in the U.S. have lots of toys, and many pet parents practice trial-and-

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toys, choose those made in the U.S. out of 100 percent natural rubber, organic cotton or other eco-friendly and contaminant-free materials. Try the sniff test. If a toy being considered smells strongly of chemicals, put it back. Testing shows that some tennis balls made for pets contain more contaminants than those made for sports.

The best toys for pets are usually handmade by individuals or very small companies and can be found at local farmers’ markets or sold regionally in small, independent pet stores. There’s no plethora of companies that produce 100 percent organic toys, but some great, allnatural toys can be found online.

What Dogs Seem to Prefer Researchers have discovered that regardless of the type of toy, once a dog is completely familiar with the sight, sound, smell and feel of it, boredom can set in. In addition, we may want to avoid “indestructible” toys the dog can’t make a dent in, because they enjoy toys they can pull apart and destroy, or those that are edible.

Offering a dog easily destroyed toys isn’t ideal, either, as they may accidently or intentionally ingest some of the non-edible pieces. A good alternative is recreational bones (large, raw chunks of beef and bison femur bones), which are quite enjoyable to most dogs, even though they’re not technically toys. Lick mats that hold a soft food treat are also a great environmental enrichment choice for dogs that tend to destroy toys quickly.

Treat-release puzzle toys, toys meant to be chewed and those that make noise or are edible (like a nontoxic dental bone) can also be good options, while toys that are hard, unyielding and silent will probably not be a big hit.

Don’t underestimate our human ability to stimulate a dog’s interests. A session of playtime—playing fetch, tug-of-war or hide-and-seek—will be far more stimulating to the pup than any toy could be.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

Tips for Selecting Safe Dog Toys These guidelines compiled by VetStreet.com are recommended by veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker to help in choosing toys that will keep a dog not only happy, but safe. n Choose toys that are the right size for your dog. Giving a small toy to a large dog poses a risk of inhalation and choking. Small balls are especially dangerous, as they can easily become lodged in your dog’s trachea. n Avoid toys that have small parts that can be chewed or pulled off and those with sharp edges or that can be chewed into sharp points. n If your dog likes to de-stuff toys, be sure he’s not eating the stuffing. Some dogs really enjoy stuffing-free toys.

Toys to Avoid n String, ribbon, pantyhose, socks and rubber bands, all of which can be swallowed and cause lifethreatening complications in the digestive tract n Children’s toys (such as stuffed animals); they’re not designed to withstand the type of play dogs engage in n Toys stuffed with beads or beans n Rocks and sticks n Rubber toys with a hole in only one end, as they can form a vacuum that catches your dog’s tongue n Rawhide chews aren’t recommended for several reasons, including that they pose a high risk of choking and intestinal obstruction December 2021

41

Nature’s Virus Killer

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed.

Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night.

“It saved me last holidays,” she said.

“The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.”

Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said.

By Doug Cornell “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” cientists have discovered a cold never got going. That was A man with trouble breathing natural way to kill germs fast.

September 2012. I use copper in the through his nose at night tried copper Now thousands of people nose every time and I have not had a just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in are using it against viruses and bacteria single cold since then.” years!” he said. in the nose and on “We can’t In a lab test, technicians placed 25 the skin. make product million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. Colds start health claims,” he No viruses were found surviving soon when cold viruses said, “so I can’t after. get in your nose. say cause and Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams Viruses multiply effect. But we confirming the research. He placed fast. If you don’t know copper is millions of disease germs on copper. stop them early, antimicrobial.”

“They started to die literally as soon as they spread and He asked they touched the surface,” he said. cause misery. relatives and Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right In hundreds friends to try it. right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. of studies, EPA and They reported unwanted germs gathering there. university researchers have confirmed the same thing, so he patented The handle is curved that viruses and bacteria die almost CopperZap® and put it on the and textured to increase instantly when touched by copper. market. contact. Copper can That’s why ancient Greeks and Soon hundreds of people had kill germs picked up on Egyptians used copper to purify water tried it. The feedback was 99% fingers and hands after and heal wounds. They didn’t know positive if they used the copper you touch things other about microbes, but now we do. within 3 hours after the first sign people have touched.

Scientists say the high conductance of unwanted germs, like a tickle The EPA says copper of copper disrupts the electrical balance in the nose or a scratchy throat. still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in Early user Mary Pickrell tarnished.

Copper quickly kills seconds. said, “I can’t believe how good CopperZap is made cold viruses.

Tests by the EPA (Environmental my nose feels.” in the U.S. of pure Protection Agency) show germs die “What a wonderful thing!” copper. It has a 90-day full money back fast on copper. So some hospitals tried exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get copper for touch surfaces like faucets Another customer asked, “Is it supposed $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA24. and doorknobs. This cut the spread of to work that fast?”

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call MRSA and other illnesses by over half, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for toll-free 1-888-411-6114. and saved lives.

Christmas and called it “one of the best Buy once, use forever.

The strong scientific evidence gave presents ever. This little jewel really Statements are not intended as inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When works.” product health claims and have not been he felt a cold about to start he fashioned Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to a smooth copper probe and rubbed it suffering after crowded flights. Though diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any gently in his nose for 60 seconds. skeptical, she tried copper on travel disease.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and ADVERTORIAL

Copper can stop a cold before it starts

S

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calendar of events Printed calendar is a gratis feature exclusively for advertisers who make this magazine possible. Non-advertisers are free to use the on-line calendar at NATampa.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4 NLP FUNdamentals 2-Day Training Online – 10am-5pm, December 4 & 5. No prior training needed for this fun, interactive class. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer, teaches Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) principles, presuppositions & techniques for immediate personal or professional use. Registration Fee (includes materials & post-training access to videos): $165 ($145 UPHI Member). Repeat $75. CEUs-Hypnotists/NLP Practitioners. 727-943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 Self-Hypnosis for Self-Empowerment – 12:301:30pm. Fun, experiential training with Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Medical Hypnotherapist & Master Trainer of Hypnosis & NLP. Learn techniques to use immediately to unleash your potentials & talents, change unwanted habits. $15 (includes hypnosis scripts & recording). Location: Holistic Center for Vibrant Health, 3935 Tampa Rd., Ste. 1 (at Commerce Blvd.)Oldsmar. 727-943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 32nd Annual Say No To Drugs Holiday Classic 5K/10K – 7am. Chip-timed 5K and 10K loops within the absolutely stunning Sand Key Park, Clearwater, with a separate 1-mile kids’ race. Race Marshalls and water and aid stations placed along the course to help runners stay safe and hydrated. Runners get to choose from previous year’s shirts and medals. Info and registration, SayNoToDrugs.com.

Hypnosis Training Online – 10am-3pm. Interactive online training with Patricia V. Scott, PhD, UP Hypnosis Institute. Topics: Rapid Inductions, Pre-talk Rapport & more. Prior hypnosis training necessary (5 CEUs). Approved by International Association of Counselors & Therapists. Single Day: $45/UPHI, IACT, IMDHA or HEA Member; $55/Non-Member. Two Days: $75/Member; $95/ Non-Member, includes materials, scripts & CEUs. 727-943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25

Merry Christmas

PLAN AHEAD SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, 2022 Spirit Fest: Metaphysical and Holistic Fair – 10am-6pm, Jan. 8 & 9. Enjoy 100 booths with vendors, practitioners, intuitive readers, artists and demonstrations. Something for everyone. Speakers throughout both days on a variety of topics. Entrance fee: $10. Children 12 & under: Free. Vendor opportunities still available. Visit SanctuaryFL.com.

RP Funding Center, 701 W Lime St., Lakeland.

321-313-2543. SanctuaryFL.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9, 2022 “Your Unlimited Mind” Online Event – 1-6pm.

Learn how integrative techniques are used in behavioral, emotional and medical issues. Patricia V. Scott, UP Hypnosis Institute, hosts internationally recognized hypnosis, psychology & NLP professionals. Can’t attend? No problem! Register to receive videos of entire event. Basic Registration $45; VIP Registration $75 (see website); a portion of proceeds benefits Veterans of Foreign Wars. Register, UPHypnosis.com, UPHypnosis@Outlook.com.

ONGOING EVENTS THURSDAY Meditation – 1pm. Join Nana Hendricks, spiritual teacher/ intuitive visionary, for insightful guided meditations, exploring various meditation techniques from beginners to advanced. Meditation is an exploration of self and our connections to all things; experience Self-realization, transformation, relaxation, rejuvenation, healing, clarity and guidance. $15. Dunedin Health and Wellness, 1000 Bass Blvd., Dunedin. 828-337-5512, NanaHendricks.com.

High paws to Mr. Brycey, a 10-yo Border Collie mix living in central Clearwater. According to his human, Barbara Z, Mr. B loves sitting at the end of his driveway acting like the protective sheepherder. His other loves include children, small dogs, cushy grass and rides in the car.

FRIDAY Intuitive Readings / Cacao Readings & Ceremony – 6-10pm, 1st Friday, 3rd Saturday. Join Nana Hendricks, spiritual teacher / intuitive visionary, in Gulfport at Sumitra’s, the enchanting Moroccan Tea House and Expresso Lounge, during the festive downtown evening marketplace. Intuitive Readings, Cacao Readings and monthly Cacao Ceremonies.

Sumitra’s, 2838 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport. Prices vary, check website or call for details/reservations, 828-337-5512, NanaHendricks.com.

SATURDAY Inner Alchemy – 1pm, 2nd Sat. Join Nana Hendricks, spiritual teacher / intuitive visionary for personal transformation and inner alchemy. Meditation, inspiration, Self-realization, healing and rejuvenation. Harness consciousness to manifest our personal goals and dreams. $33. Dunedin Health and Wellness, 1000 Bass Blvd., Dunedin. 828-337-5512, NanaHendricks.com.

Women’s Group – 3pm, 2nd Sat. Join Nana Hendricks, spiritual teacher and intuitive visionary, for a celebration of the Divine Feminine, in an uplifting empowering group of conscious, high-vibe ladies who want to harness their potent power and presence and make a difference. Enjoy different themes monthly, open forum dialog, set intentions, join in meditation and weave magic into one’s life. $33.

Dunedin Health and Wellness, 1000 Bass Blvd., Dunedin. 828-337-5512, NanaHendricks.com.

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community resource guide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community.

ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURE & ORIENTAL MEDICINE Chris Dziubinski, DOM, AP, L. Ac 12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com

Florida Board Certified Acupuncture Physician offering acupuncture therapies for the whole family. Established, comfortable, caring and professional integrative medicine clinics in South & North Tampa. Innetwork with most medical insurances; accept payments from HRA, HSA and FSA.

PROFESSIONAL HERBALISTS TRAINING PROGRAM Acupuncture & Herbal Therapies 2520 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-551-0857 AcuHerbals.com

The 2-year program meets one weekend each month for class and Wednesday nights for our hands-on student clinic. This program is designed to create clinical herbalists in a combination of Chinese and western herbalism. Many open classes. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards. See ad page 18.

TCL MEDICAL

Islam Ganie, PN, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, APRN 6613 49th St. North, Pinellas Park 33781 727-954-4543, 1tclmedic@gmail.com Instagram: TCL_Medical Facebook: TCL Medical Providing optimal and affordable integrative and holistic health care, including weight loss; antiaging; IV hydration/chelation (including IV vitamin C, ozone); gut; thyroid; asthma/respiratory; fatigue/stress & much more.

NATURAL MED THERAPIES Machelle Perkins, D.O.M. 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd # C, Largo 727-541-2211 NaturalMedTherapies.com

National & state board certified with 15+ years experience in Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Cold Laser & more.

Bio-Puncture and Mesotherapy to treat pain, ADHD, anxiety, depression. Lab testing, most insurances. Free Nutritional Consultation.

APOTHECARY BOHEMIAN GYPSEA

12 West Orange St., Tarpon Springs 727-935-6046 BohemianGypsea.com Metaphysical Gift Shop, Crystals, Jewelry, Clothing, Local Artist, CBD, Delta 8, Tea, Supplements, Greeting Cards, Sage, Incense, Essential Oils, Books, Energy Healing, Candles. See ad page 29.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER

Dr. David Minkoff, M.D. Sue Morgan, APRN & Karima Redouan, APRN Rose Tyler, APRN 301 Turner St., Clearwater 727-466-6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com Specializing in Ozone Therapy, IV Therapy, Heavy Metal Detoxification, Neurological Issues, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Gut Issues, Thyroid Issues and IPT for Cancer treatment.

See ad inside front cover.

ORTHOMOLECULAR NUTRITION & WELLNESS 9225 Ulmerton Rd., Ste. 312, Largo 727-518-9808 OrthoLiving.com

We address the underlying root cause of disease by using a variety of modalities such as Nutrient IV’s, Chelation, Weight loss, HRT, PEMF, Ozone Therapy and more. To see if you qualify for Medical Marijuana go to OrthoMMJ.com.

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CHIROPRACTIC NATURAL LIVING CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Paula Giusto 310 South Brevard Ave., Tampa 813-253-2565 NaturalLivingChiropractic.org

Family chiropractic care, wellness care, nutritional counseling, neuromuscular massage therapy.

Jin Shin Jyutsu & craniosacral therapy.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY RENEW LIFE

Bonnie Barrett 28469 US Hwy 19 N. #402, Clearwater 727-461-7227 RenewLifeFla.com, Lic# MA14802 MM35406

30 years experience. Expert in colon hydrotherapy using pressure points, abdominal massage, essential oils, and lymphatic drainage.

All disposable tubing used. Very comfortable and relaxing room with private bathroom.

See ad page 19.

DENTISTS BEATA CARLSON, DDS

1825 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater 727-888-6523 NaturalAndCosmeticDentistry.com Natural, Holistic, Aesthetic Dentistry. Careful Silver filling removal.

Non-metal crowns and bridges. Be pampered in our Spa-like atmosphere. See ad back cover.

SIX OAKS WELLNESS APOTHECARY Carolyn Zinober, LMT, Esthetician, Clinical Herbalist, Aromatherapist 607 1st. Ave. SW, Largo 727-501-1700 SixOaksWellness.com

Clinical herbalist and massage therapist offering consultations, extensive line of Eastern/Western Herbs, Teas, Essential oils, CBD, Supplements, and learning workshops. Visit your neighborhood apothecary today! See ad page 6.

ASTROLOGY ASTROLOGY FOR YOUR SOUL

Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer Dunedin 248-583-1663 AlunaMichaels.com Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner.

Over 25 years of experience.

Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”

NATampa.com

CARLO LITANO, DMD

Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 9087 Belcher Rd., Pinellas Park, 33782 727-300-0044 Natural-Smiles.com Offering Holistic/Biological dentistry. Swiss dental protocols, ceramic implants, safe mercury removal, ozone cleaning and on site sedation. See ad page 4.

PAUL T. RODEGHERO, DDS

Clearwater Family Dental 215 S Myrtle Ave., Clearwater 727-442-3363 MyClearWaterFamilyDental.com We are a full service family dental practice that stresses metal free restorations, safe mercury removal, ozone and laser dentistry. We welcome patients of all ages and can handle any concern that you may have. See ad pages 3, 9 & 12.

ROBERT J. YU, DMD

Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Petersburg 727-384-9122 TBPerio.com

See ad page 10.

The only board certified periodontist and implant surgeon in Tampa Bay offering ceramic/ zirconia non-metal implants.

State-of-the-art treatments include CBT imaging, LANAP and digital intraoral scanner, eliminating messy impressions.

HERBALIST ROSE KALAJIAN—HERBALIST

Natural Health Hut Clinic and Herb Farm 813-991-5177 ImHerbalist.com Specializing in growing the herbs used in my clinic practice and in the Herbal Remedies I formulate.

Consultations are available for humans, dogs, cats, and horses.

Promoting health through the use of Herbs. See ad pages 29 and 32.

HYPNOSIS UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES HYPNOSIS, INC.

Patricia V. Scott, President 727-943-5003 UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com Professional Hypnosis & NLP Certification Training, Weekly classes & Private sessions (Smoking, Weight, Stress, Sports, Habits), Clinical/Medical Hypnotherapy available w/referral. Speaking Services & Corporate Programs.

See ad page 33.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CHRISTIE MD FUNCTIONAL & AESTHETIC MEDICINE Dr. Heather Christie 2837 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg 727-220-9080 ChristieMDfam.com

Functional, Aesthetic and Intravenous Medicine. Offering hormone therapy; nutritional evaluation and therapy; fatigue and stress management; detoxification; diabetes; cardiovascular diseases; weight control; aesthetics. Outof-Network Provider. See ad page 13.

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INTEGRATIVE THERAPEUTICS Dr. Prudhvi Karumanchi 8320 Stone Run Ct., Tampa 33615 813-322-6171 IntTherapeutics.com

Committed to finding the root cause, Holistic MD offers: IV Nutrition, Regenerative Treatments, Functional Medicine, Heavy Metal Detox, Energy Healing, Weight Loss, Antiaging and more. Out-of-Network Provider.

MIND BODY SPIRIT CARE

Ron N. Shemesh, M.D. 12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com Integrative & holistic medicine for women & men: Natural Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging, IV Chelation, Nutritional Vitamin Therapy, Fatigue & Stress Management, Weight Loss, Yoga, Nutritional Counseling.

Affiliated with St. Joseph Hospital.

Most insurance accepted.

PEAKS OF HEALTH METABOLIC MEDICAL CENTER Tracie Leonhardt, DO 1120 Belcher Rd. S., Ste. 2, Largo 727-826-0838 PeaksOfHealth.com

Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient. Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad pages 11 and 47.

ST. PETERSBURG HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Les Cole Kathie Gonzales, ARNP 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg 727-202-6807 StPetehw.com AwakeningWellness.org

Functional, Regenerative, Integrative & Preventative Medicine.

Treating Thyroid, Autoimmune Diseases, Cancer Support, Natural Hormone Replacement, Stem Cells, Exosomes, PRP and Joint Rejuvenation, IV Nutritional Therapy.

See ad page 23.

SUCCESS BY DESIGN

9095 Belcher Road, Pinellas Park 727-548-0001 SBDWellness.com A Wellness Center for Age-Management, Functional Medicine and Medical Weight Loss. Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement including Pellet Therapy, Gut Health/Food Allergies, Detoxification, Nutritional Evaluations, Acupuncture, Massage therapy and more. See ad page 7.

YOUNG FOUNDATIONAL HEALTH CENTER

John D. Young, M.D. 7241 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo 727-545-4600 YoungFoundationalHealth.com

Author of Beyond Treatment.

Creator of Young Health Products. Offering specialized treatments for chronic diseases.

Therapies include Bio-identical Hormone, Stem Cell, Vitamin IV, Chelation, Ozone. Special Testing and Nutritional Education. See ad page 5.

INTUITIVE HEALING RONNI FORD YOGA AND INTUITIVE CRYSTAL HEALING Dunedin 340-626-9642 RonniFordyeh@gmail.com

Intuitive crystal healer and yoga instructor; 22 years’ experience.

Awaken: messages from your incarnated soul; energy and energetic healing; food sensitivity awareness. Group yoga and private healing sessions available online, by phone or in-person.

SOLGARDEN HOLISTIC THERAPY, LLC Ellen Mooney, Reiki Master 727-754-4340 EllenMooney7@gmail.com SolGardenHolistic.com

Relax, de-stress and come back to the peace of your Soul with Guided Meditations, Intuitive Healing or Usui Reiki sessions by phone and in-person. With over 25 years’ experience and training, I will help you release energy clutter and shift you to your true light-filled self. Gift Certificates available.

MEDITATION LARRY CASTELLANI, PH.D.

Integral Awareness Meditation 716-816-5464 I.Am.Meditation108@gmail.com InCommunionWithTruth.blogspot.com I have 30 yrs. experience helping people along the spiritual path. Expect an effortless awakening of freedom, peace and happiness. Overcome worry, craving and pain.

Equitable fee, sliding scale.

REFLEXOLOGY REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES

Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater, MA0028171 Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.

October 2021

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SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE LISA MILIARESIS

Extreme Communication 727-239-0656 Lisa@2Communicate.net 2Communicate.net Lisa offers private individual and group channeling sessions, as well as private counseling sessions for those looking for direction in developing their own personal practice.

THERMOGRAPHY GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY John D. Bartone MD Thomas Hudson MD 7901 4th Street North, Suite 316 St. Petersburg, FL 33702 727-576-0100 GreenPointThermography.com

The only physician owned and operated thermography practice in Tampa Bay - serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Accredited by the American College of Clinical Thermology.

See ad page 10.

NANA HENDRICKS

Intuitive Visionary/Conscious Life Coach 828-337-5512 NanaHendricks.com For those seeking direction, yearning for Self/deeper connection, Nana can commune with your Soul Light and Higher Self to bring forth purest forms of support.

See ad page 43.

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY June Drennon, CCT 2008 JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711 FloridaMedicalThermography.com

UNIVERSOULLIGHT CONSULTING Rev. Amanda Segovia, Reiki Master Certified SRT Personal Consultant UniverSoulLight.com UniverSoulLight@gmail.com

Private sessions using various healing, clearing & spiritual modalities. Akashic Records, Intuitive Medium, Astrologer, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/Mentor & more.

See website.

See ad page 6.

Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography!

Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.

To Advertise in the Resource Guide, email Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com or call 727.865.9339.

coming in the january health & wellness issue

Health & Wellness Issue

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Tampa Bay Edition

NATampa.com

VETERINARIAN HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM 628 Cleveland St., #17, Clearwater 727-510-3665 HealthyPawsibilities.com.

Offering only holistic health options. Nutrition, herbal support, body balancing, canine fitness, reiki and more.

See ad page 41.

MEDICINE RIVER ANIMAL HOSPITAL Shawna L. Green, DVM 13495 Gulf Boulevard Madeira Beach 727-299-9029 MedicineRiverAnimalHospital.com

Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more.

See ad page 41.

Place your business listing here Call 727-865-9339 for more information

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