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Publisher’s Letter
Welcome the inspiration of June and its spotlight on all things male, expressly health—true wealth. This issue is dedicated to fathers, brothers, sons, husbands, was-bands, uncles, granddads+ and all things under the sun and beyond that honor the dignity of the masculine in balance.
No one wants to live long without quality of life. A profound read, Expanding Our Healthspan points out the problems we currently face and offers sound, homegrown solutions. Holistic stress management is skillfully covered.
A calm mind and body are critical necessities to success in life. In Healing the Stress Response, adrenals are addressed. We all have them; few knew the significant role these little organs play in our daily reactionary life.
From biohackers to geroscientists, many are exploring the Benefits of Creatine Supplementation as a possible intervention in age-related decline. This article is ultra-informative for the reader, with substance for use.
In Conscious Eating this month, find a recipe for techno-fueled, DIY protein bars. Aminos are so important.
Lastly but never leastly, Men’s Grooming Goes Green tells us what has evolved in this category over the past 20 years. With an open Heart and mind, please enjoy.
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Be Inspired at the 2025 FSMTA Convention and Trade Show
The Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA) is hosting its annual Convention and Trade Show from June 27 to 30, in Orlando, Altamonte Springs. Featuring a bustling exhibit hall filled with the latest health and wellness products, attendees can take advantage of special deals on products and tools for their practice as well as establish valuable business relationships.
FSMTA Convention registration options include full registration, single day, exhibit hall, AHA CPR/AED certification training, and tickets for the Ian McIntosh Legislative Dinner. Classes and exhibit hall access are included with full and single day registration, unless otherwise noted.
FSMTA members receive discounted rates on registration and are encouraged to attend the FSMTA Annual Meeting Luncheon. This event helps further promote FSMTA’s commitment to education, advocacy and networking within the massage therapy profession.
To Join FSMTA, register for convention and/or learn more, visit fsmta.org. See ad pages 27 and 29.
Discover the Power of Holistic Healing at Roma Wellness Event
Take a meaningful step on your journey toward balance, healing and vitality. The Holistic Health Discovery Event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 21, at Roma Holistic Health, 6161 Dr. Martin Luther King Street North, Suite 100-102, St. Pete. Experience firsthand the diverse range of natural and integrative wellness modalities available in your community— all under one roof.
Come meet compassionate, experienced practitioners offering personalized guidance and hands-on information in areas such as: IV Supplements, Holistic Mental Health Counseling, Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Colon Therapy, Herbal Remedies, Float and Sauna Therapy, Healing Energy Work, Harmonic Egg, Neurofeedback, BioMagnetics…plus several additional wellness services and holistic experts ready to share tools, demos and answers tailored to your unique path.
Whether managing chronic conditions, seeking emotional balance or simply looking to live more vibrantly, this event offers a welcoming, no-pressure environment to explore new possibilities in health and self-care.
Admission: Free, but bring your curiosity, your questions and your open mind. Come curious. Leave empowered. Info, 727-692-7154, RomaHolisticHealth.com. See ad page 10.
Red-Light Gum Therapy
Approximately 3 million Americans receive dental implant procedures annually. Unlike natural teeth, implants do not form a seamless seal with the surrounding gum tissue, posing a potential risk of infection. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are working to develop a new implant that mitigates this concern via a twofold defense.
The first defense involves creating the crown to include antimicrobial compounds, currently barium titanate, to effectively combat bacterial growth.
The second line of defense entails embedding light-emitting diodes (LEDs) onto the base of the crown to deliver immune-boosting, red-light therapy to the surrounding gum area. To eliminate the need for a battery, the implant generates its own electricity via the crown’s specialized material, such as the barium titanate, which converts motion—such as chewing— to electrical energy. Although barium titanate is not as strong as the materials currently used for implants, the research team is working on enhancing its properties. The product will be tested in pigs in 2025, paving the way for human trials.
Coffee Alternatives
A research article in PLOS ONE predicts that by 2050, climate change will dramatically reduce the world’s most suitable and moderately suitable areas to grow coffee by more than 50 percent and 30 to 40 percent, respectively. With the potential reduced supply and high cost for our morning cup of Joe, several companies are exploring alternatives.
French company STEM is working to develop sustainable and future-proof coffee at a genetic level using coffee byproducts such as grounds and coffee cherry pulp. Other beanless coffee companies are trying to recreate the coffee taste and aroma using substitute ingredients. Northern Wonder, a Dutch company, uses lupin beans, chickpeas and chicory. Seattle-based Atomo infuses date seeds with a proprietary marinade. Minus, of San Francisco, uses fermentation out of pits, roots and seeds that might otherwise be discarded. Singapore-based Prefer uses a soy milk byproduct, bread and spent barley from breweries that are then fermented. Each of these makers of beanless coffee adds caffeine to their brews to provide the pick-me-up consumers crave in their morning cup.
A New Definition of Obesity
To diagnose obesity, medical professionals primarily rely on body mass index (BMI), a calculation that estimates the percentage of body fat based on a ratio comparing height to weight. Seeking a more nuanced and precise approach, The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology assembled a commission comprised of 56 leading experts from various disciplines, including nutrition, endocrinology, internal medicine and public health, to reevaluate the definition and measurement of obesity.
The commission found that BMI tends to both underestimate and overestimate obesity. For instance, individuals that are stocky and muscular may be erroneously classified as obese due to the weight of muscle tissue, while those with low muscle mass but excess abdominal fat around their organs may not be considered obese.
The commission recommends a revised definition of obesity that emphasizes excess body fat accumulation around the waist, measuring waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio or waist-to-height ratio, in conjunction with BMI. Alternatively, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan can be employed to directly measure body fat using low-radiation X-ray capabilities at a higher cost.
In an interview with NPR News, Dr. Robert Kushner, a member of the commission, explained the significance of abdominal fat, stating, “Fat in the belly causes systemic inflammation, which then goes on and causes other metabolic problems like elevated blood sugar, elevated blood pressure and increased fats in the blood.” The commission also recommended making a distinction between preclinical and clinical obesity. Individuals with clinical obesity would exhibit diminished organ or tissue function due to obesity or substantial mobility limitations. Consequently, they would receive appropriate treatments for their condition. Individuals with preclinical obesity would undergo health counseling and monitoring to reduce the risk of developing clinical obesity.
sasirin pamai's Images/ CanvaPro
Dietary Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A study published in the Natural Medicine Journal compared three different treatment modalities for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a low-FODMAP diet (restricting the consumption of specific carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestines) combined with traditional dietary guidance for IBS (LFTD group); a low-carbohydrate, high-protein, high-fat and fiber-optimized diet (low-carb group); and pharmacological intervention targeting IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea (drug group).
Worsening Allergy Seasons
The study enrolled 294 adults with moderate-to-severe IBS that were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment options for a four-week period. Those in the diet groups received nutritional counseling and support to adhere to their assigned diet. The participants’ IBS symptoms were assessed before, during and after the four-week intervention period.
At the end of the intervention period, all three groups reported improvements; however, the LFTD and low-carb groups exhibited more significant reductions in IBS symptom severity from the baseline compared to the drug group. These findings suggest that dietary modifications should be a primary treatment approach for IBS patients, with the low-carb diet being preferable.
Allergy seasons have been getting longer and more problematic. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that approximately one in four adults and one in five children in the U.S. suffer from seasonal allergies. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America anticipates that 2025 will be a severe year for seasonal allergies across the country, with the worst-afflicted cities located in the southern region. Notably, at the end of March, Atlanta and Houston set pollen count records.
Pollen is dispersed by trees in the spring, grasses in the summer and ragweed during autumn, but these patterns have shifted due to climate change. Elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide levels induce many plants to produce more pollen, increase their size and growth rate, and yield more flowers. Warmer temperatures result in warmer, shorter winters and earlier springs, leading to longer growing seasons and overlapping pollen seasons. A 2021 study in Scientific Reports also noted that climate change is augmenting the number and duration of allergenic mold spores in some areas.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Dr. Andreas Grossgold, MD, PhD
RossHelen/CanvaPro
Svetlana Parnikova from Getty Images/CanvaPro
A Mom at 100 Years Old
Congratulations to Mommy, a first-time mother at 100 years old, and to her mate, Abrazzo, also estimated to be around 100. Mommy is a critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise that has lived at the Philadelphia Zoo since 1932. In November 2024, she laid 16 eggs, with the first hatching on February 27. To date, four have climbed from their shells, with more still possible. This was Mommy’s fourth egg-laying attempt and the first to result in viable offspring.
Prior to the recent hatchlings, there were only 44 Western Santa Cruz giant tortoises in American zoos. The newly hatched tortoises will be housed at the Philadelphia Zoo for a minimum of five years before any potential relocation to another facility or release into the Galapagos Islands. Scientists estimate that these tortoises may live up to 200 years, with the oldest on record documented to have lived 175 years in captivity.
Seven of the Galapagos Islands are currently home to one or more of 13 native tortoise species. Historically, each of the 21 islands had its own species, with populations numbering in the hundreds of thousands. After being hunted to near extinction, their numbers have since rebounded to approximately 17,000 with the help of conservation and breeding programs, as reported by the London Zoo.
Becoming Man’s Best Friend
A study led by a University of Arizona researcher sheds light on the interactions between Indigenous peoples in the Americas and early dogs and wolves. The study, published in the journal Science Advances, indicates that close relationships between people and ancestral dogs began in Alaska as early as 12,000 years ago, about 2,000 years earlier than previously thought. Chemical analysis of unearthed canine bones revealed that the animals regularly ate fish, suggesting a level of interaction with humans.
Declining Butterfly Population
A recent study published in the journal Science provides the most comprehensive analysis of the current state of the U.S. butterfly population. The research team combined data from 35 citizen-scientist programs across the continental U.S. that counted butterflies. Their analysis was based on 12.6 million individual butterfly sightings.
The findings reveal a concerning decline of 22 percent of our 554 butterfly species over the past two decades, affecting almost every region of the country. For every species found to have increased in population, there were 13 species that declined in population, and some of those declines were significant. While tackling climate change and regulating pesticides are crucial policy interventions, people can actively contribute to reversing these declines by creating habitat refuges for butterflies and other insects. This can be achieved by planting native flowers, shrubs and trees.
Jeniffer Collee from Pexels/CanvaPro
Florida’s Coral Reefs Struggling
Hard coral species such as elkhorn and staghorn are essential for a reef ecosystem, which fosters marine life and safeguards coastal communities from hurricanes and other storms. However, Florida’s reef ecosystems have faced significant challenges in recent years. Heatwaves, hurricanes, disease and pollution have resulted in the destruction of tens of millions of coral colonies over the past decades.
Scientists are now concerned about the reproductive abilities of coral. There is evidence suggesting that the spawning of polyps, the larvae of corals, is being hindered. While corals can reproduce asexually by cloning themselves, sexual reproduction introduces new genetic diversity that aids in their adaptation to changing ocean conditions.
The researchers believe that the decline in baby coral is multifaceted. Not only do fewer colonies produce fewer offspring, but the corals are often too far apart to produce fertilized eggs. New research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences indicates that corals require a proximity of 30 feet to mate. Coral larvae need to attach themselves to a bare patch of seafloor, which has become increasingly difficult as seabeds have become covered in seaweed or macroalgae that has grown unchecked due to reduced populations of sea creatures that feed on it.
While scientists can successfully produce baby coral in captivity, this approach alone is insufficient to address the underlying issues affecting coral in the ocean.
My father considered a walk among the mountains as the equivalent of churchgoing.
—Aldous Huxley
Kanenori from pixabay/CanvaPro
Men’s Grooming Goes Green
Over the last 20 years, men’s daily use of personal care products has nearly doubled, according to the Environmental Working Group. Men apply shaving cream to their face, splash on cologne, shower with body wash, style their hair with wax and use strong antiperspirants without realizing that they might be exposing themselves to a host of toxins.
The most prevalent health culprits are hormone-disrupting phthalates and fragrance extenders that have been shown to inhibit testosterone levels and reduce sperm count. Preservatives such as formaldehyde, known to cause cancer, are also commonly used.
The effects of grooming routines extend beyond the individual because fossil fuels are expended to transport these products and discarded plastic containers accumulate in landfills, eventually degrading into microplastics that pollute waterways and contaminate the human food supply.
To mitigate these adverse effects on human and planetary health, consider using the following eco-friendly, organic and cruelty-free products.
• Reusable safety razors crafted from bamboo or metal and fitted with recyclable metal blades provide a close shave without contributing to the 2 billion disposable razors that end up in landfills every year and take more than a century to biodegrade.
• Electric shavers are reusable, reduce water use and have a lower carbon footprint than disposable razors.
• Sustainably sourced beard-softening oils such as jojoba, argon or meadowfoam are infused with organic and vegan botanics by companies such as Copper Johns.
• Aluminum-free deodorants maintain freshness throughout
the day using bacteria-fighting activated charcoal, natural clays and botanical additions like coriander. Antiperspirants that inhibit perspiration by blocking pores with aluminumbased ingredients should be avoided.
• Natural body washes and soaps with ingredients such as Jimmy Red corn, coconut oil and kaolin clay gently clean pores and smooth the skin without employing drying agents. Choose products packaged in natural materials.
• Chemical-free colognes with natural fragrances derived from essential oils, herbs and spices can be alluring without being overpowering. Some use organic sugarcane alcohol. Noteworthy brands are Dr. Squatch, Henry Rose and unisex fragrances by Heretic.
• Natural shaving creams formulated with skin-nourishing ingredients such as coconut-derived surfactants, vegetable glycerin, aloe, vitamin E and botanicals provide a close shave, even for sensitive skin.
• Chemical-free shampoos employ sulfate-free cleaning agents and natural botanicals to nourish the hair. Additionally, zinc and botanical additions like sage and tea tree oil are incorporated to address scalp and dandruff concerns.
• Hair waxes and pomades should not contain petroleum. Look for ingredients like strong-hold beeswax, or simply choose a water-based product.
Tassii from Getty
Ozone Therapy
Revolutionary Advancement In Modern Dentistry
Ozone therapy is emerging as a groundbreaking innovation in modern dentistry, offering a minimally invasive and highly effective approach to oral healthcare. As dental practices evolve with advanced technologies, integrating ozone therapy marks a significant shift toward holistic and patient-centered treatment. This powerful oxidizing agent—composed of three oxygen atoms—has demonstrated remarkable benefits across various dental procedures, enhancing treatment outcomes while reducing invasiveness. With its natural ability to combat harmful pathogens and promote healing, ozone therapy is revolutionizing the way dental professionals address a range of oral health concerns.
Two of the most compelling advantages of ozone therapy are its antimicrobial and healing properties, making it an invaluable tool in dental care. By incorporating ozone therapy, dental professionals can enhance patient care while reducing dependence on conventional techniques that involve drilling, cutting or chemicalbased sterilization. A major breakthrough in infection control, ozone therapy serves as a potent adjunct to traditional treatments by eliminating bacteria, fungi and viruses without compromising healthy tissue. Conventional methods often require chemical disinfectants or invasive procedures to control infections which may lead to unwanted side effects or prolonged healing. In contrast, ozone’s oxidative properties selectively target harmful pathogens, offering a precise and efficient sterilization method that minimizes damage to surrounding tissues. This natural approach aligns with the growing preference
for reducing chemical exposure in medical and dental care, ensuring safer and more sustainable treatment options.
In the realm of periodontal health, ozone therapy is proving to be a valuable tool in treating gum diseases and preserving oral structures. Periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and surrounding tissues, pose complex challenges in dental care, often leading to inflammation, infection and tissue degeneration. Ozone’s ability to penetrate gum tissues and disinfect periodontal pockets helps manage inflammation, combat bacterial infections and even encourages tissue regeneration. When used alongside advanced treatments such as Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure, ozone therapy provides a comprehensive strategy for addressing progressive periodontal conditions, improving long-term oral health outcomes.
Additionally, ozone therapy is widely utilized during tooth extraction procedures to prevent infections, accelerate healing and alleviate post-operative discomfort. By irrigating extraction sites with ozonized water and injecting ozone gas directly into surgical areas, dental professionals can significantly reduce the risk of complications. This technique enhances the body’s natural healing process, fostering tissue repair while minimizing pain and swelling associated with traditional extraction procedures. The ability to support tissue recovery without excessive medication or interventions highlights ozone therapy’s versatility in modern dentistry.
The integration of ozone therapy into routine dental practice reflects a growing
trend toward patient-friendly and holistic care. By complementing traditional approaches, ozone therapy not only reduces invasiveness but also fosters natural healing and recovery. Patients seeking alternatives to conventional dental procedures increasingly favor ozone therapy due to its ability to minimize discomfort and maximize treatment efficacy. As the demand for innovative, non-invasive treatment methods continues to rise, ozone therapy represents a crucial advancement in modern dental care.
As ongoing research into ozone therapy expands its applications, new possibilities are emerging for dental practitioners and patients alike. Advancements in ozone delivery systems are expected to enhance precision and efficiency, enabling dentists to offer even more tailored solutions for a wide range of oral health concerns. Ultimately, ozone therapy embodies a forward-thinking approach to dentistry that embraces minimally invasive yet highly effective treatment methodologies. By harnessing the unique properties of ozone, dental professionals are transforming oral healthcare, making it safer, more efficient and less reliant on conventional surgical or chemical-based treatments. As more practitioners incorporate this groundbreaking therapy into their practice, both dental specialists and patients stand to benefit from its profound impact on modern dentistry, ushering in a new era of advanced, holistic and patient-focused care.
Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics, 6700 Crosswinds Dr. N, Ste. 200B, St. Pete, 727384-9122, FrontDesk@ TBPerio.com.
See ad page 9.
Resourced from American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry (ADIMD)
Expanding Our Healthspan
Holistic Strategies for Long-Term Well-Being
by Carrie Jackson
While many people seek to prolong life, those extra years will not be fulfilling without good health. “The United States has one of the worst healthspans in the world. We have the highest rate of chronic disease and spend too much time suffering and deteriorating,” declares Dr. Eric Plasker, a chiropractor and creator of The 100 Year Lifestyle, an instructional manual and wellness system for making the most of an extended lifespan.
According to Plasker, “How you take care of yourself every day has a direct effect on your long-term quality of life. Unfortunately, the current healthcare system has focused mostly on symptoms and disease treatment. We need to have more of a lifestyle-care approach to help you function at your highest level for a lifetime, instead of constantly trying to get your health back.”
Beginning the Healthspan Journey
Dr. Peter Diamandis is a physician, engineer, entrepreneur and co-founder of the BOLD Longevity Growth Fund, which invests in biotechnologies that address the root causes of disease and extend healthspan. He is also the co-founder and chairman of Fountain Life, a company that focuses on advanced diagnostics and preventative health to help people live longer and healthier lives.
Diamandis asserts that people possess greater control over their healthspan than they may think. “We’re at a turning point in health care—shifting from a reactive, one-size-fits-all model to a proactive, personalized and data-driven approach,” he remarks. “While many people assume their longevity is mostly genetic, the data tells a
different story. Studies involving tens of millions of people show that your genes account for only 7 to 30 percent of how long you live. That means the rest is up to you—your lifestyle, your environment and what you eat.”
The Food Paradox
The impact of food on our well-being cannot be underestimated, and Diamandis points out that food can be either the slowest form of poison or the most powerful medicine. In a nutshell, our daily meal choices put us in control of how we age. He recommends anti-inflammatory foods such as broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, blueberries, walnuts, chia seeds and avocado.
“I eat the rainbow every day, because flavonoids, carotenoids and polyphenols act as molecular defenders, protecting your DNA, supporting your mitochondria and reducing your risk of conditions like heart disease, cancer and neurodegeneration,” he states. “I also use extra-virgin
Taking an Energy Inventory
by Carrie Jackson
We have a finite number of hours in the day, and worrying about things that are out of our control can take up time that could be used for more productive and fulfilling things. “There are some activities that universally charge us up or deplete us. For example, most people are energized by quality time with family and friends or by reading a good book. On the other hand, universal energy drainers include overworking, overeating, drinking too much alcohol and taking drugs,” says Dr. Eric Plasker, founder of The 100 Year Lifestyle, an instructional manual and wellness system for making the most of an extended lifespan.
olive oil and turmeric liberally, which have both been shown to reduce inflammation at the cellular level. And I keep snacks like frozen blueberries and raw walnuts within arm’s reach, because what you actually eat is what you have close by.”
Avoiding harmful foods is just as important. “Sugar is incredibly inflammatory. It shrinks the hippocampus, disrupts metabolism and fuels conditions like diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Most people don’t realize how addictive it is or how much damage it causes until they cut it out and feel the difference,” says Diamandis.
Complementary Modalities
Integrating modalities such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, yoga and meditation into a wellness plan can help our bodies function at an optimum level. Plasker notes that the number, intensity and duration of chiropractic treatments vary based on a patient’s baseline health. “If you are meditating five times a day and have no underlying decay, you will need a lot less lifestyle care than if you are a weekend warrior or a marathoner who might have more decay," he explains.
While chiropractic care is well known for success with back and nerve pain, its hidden specialty is in functional and performance-based care. “Physical therapy, functional medicine and nutrition therapy work better with the addition of chiropractic care,” asserts Plasker. “It helps to align the spine so the nervous system can communicate between the brain and body the way it is supposed to.”
As we age, we may encounter ongoing consequences from the wear and tear that occurred in our younger days. “The pounding
He recommends taking a personal energy inventory. Make a list of the foods, hobbies, habits and people in daily life. Then make note of the things that either drain or inspire energy throughout the day. Do not think of energy drainers as problems that need to be eliminated. Rather, the list is a way to raise awareness about where energy is going and how to get it flowing positively by turning drainers into gainers. For example, if driving in traffic elicits anger, adjust the travel schedule or put on relaxing music and do deep breathing exercises to shift into a more positive state.
and collisions from youth sports can have a lasting effect on the body and can accelerate osteoarthritis,” Plasker points out. “Regular chiropractic adjustments help to restore alignment, balance, motion and function, so the body doesn’t continue to deteriorate.
Urilux from Getty Images/ CanvaPro
Plasker points out. “Regular chiropractic adjustments help to restore alignment, balance, motion and function, so the body doesn’t continue to deteriorate. Anti-inflammatory supplements such as turmeric, glucosamine and chondroitin can help with acute inflammation, but if the alignment of the spine isn’t right, they’ll be facing a constant battle.”
Reframing fitness routines to prioritize long-term sustainability can help the body repair previous damage. “If you were an athlete, you can still be an athlete, but you might have to change your approach,” suggests Plasker. “Align the care you receive with the lifestyle you are choosing to live. If you’re going to train for triathlons, you need to eat healthy and stretch more. You need to increase your supplementation and the frequency of your chiropractic adjustments. But if you’re just going for hikes and power walks, you’ll need less lifestyle care. It depends on you and what you want.”
Managing Mind and Spirit
Holistic stress management is essential for longevity and overall wellness. “A nervous
system that is always in fight-or-flight mode can lead to inflammation, burnout and elevated blood pressure, putting undue stress on the heart,” explains Plasker. “Chiropractic intervention, coupled with tools such as aromatherapy and meditation, can create peace for the nervous system so you can use your energy for other things.”
Lisa Faremouth Weber, the owner of Heaven Meets Earth Family Yoga Studio, in Evanston, Illinois, notes that practices such as crystal bowl sound healing, yoga and mindfulness can help calm the body and contribute to overall wellness and longevity. She also points out that there is considerable scientific evidence that supports the health benefits of practicing yoga, meditation, tai chi and qigong.
“Yoga and other complementary mind/ body approaches integrate an individual’s physical, mental and spiritual components to improve cardiorespiratory health, physical and mental health and stress-related illnesses,” she explains. “Dr. Dean Ornish introduced millions to yoga’s health benefits
through his published studies, which demonstrated that heart disease can be reversed through diet, meditation, group support and yoga. Additionally, ancient texts such as the Upanishads or Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras teach that the body follows the mind, and the mind follows the breath. Breath awareness and breathwork cultivate a balanced, harmonious and equanimous mind, enabling clarity and focus.”
Longevity Escape Velocity
Feeling stuck?
Being mindful of daily habits and wellness routines in the present moment can lead to an extended healthspan down the road. “The goal isn’t just to live longer; it’s to stay healthy long enough to ride the wave of breakthroughs coming over the next decade and reach what we call ‘longevity escape velocity’. That’s the moment when, for every year you live, science can extend your life by more than a year,” explains Diamandis. “We’re not far off. And the choices you make today—using datadriven diagnostics, embracing functional medicine and sticking to lifestyle habits that work—are what will get you there.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Making Joyful Summer Memories
by Marlaina Donato
June is nature’s reminder that life is meant to be savored, something that we often forget in our daily routines. It is the month of invitations to abandon our more serious sides, urging us to sink our teeth into local strawberry festivals, making a sticky mess with sweet harvests dripping down our chins. June is also the month of bridal satin, languid dinners on the patio and celebrating Dad with a hearty barbecue.
On the flip side, June can carry the weight of a father’s absence, but such reminders can offer more reasons to dance to a new rhythm with a willingness to reinvent personal summer traditions. Many of us can’t forget the euphoria we felt long ago on the last day of school before summer break. Although life has taken us far from our carefree childhood summers, we can still tap into the season’s potential for levity.
Living summer to the fullest doesn’t require a lengthy European vacation or a zip lining
excursion through exotic jungles. All we need are a few inspiring plans that gently encourage our full presence and attention. Letting in some joy can be as simple as planting a patio garden of less common delights like pineapple sage, chocolate mint or cinnamon basil; making homemade lavender lemonade; bringing home fresh flowers every week; or reading a feel-good novel. Even making a small change, like buying a new pair of glittery sandals or stylish sunglasses to wear during ordinary trips to the market, can infuse a new sense of excitement into the season.
Here are some suggestions for creating new summer memories:
• Go to a favorite café with a best buddy on National Best Friends Day (June 8).
• Participate in a drum circle during the Strawberry Moon (June 11) or Summer Solstice (June 20).
• Have a picnic under the stars using a reliable constellation application. Visit Space.com/best-stargazing-apps for recommendations.
• Eat breakfast in the garden or enjoy iced coffee under a tree in the park.
• Invite a companion for a drive with the windows down, good music on and no set destination.
Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
PIKSEL from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Carl Greer
on A Journey of Self-Exploration and Transformation
by Sandra Yeyati
Carl Greer is a retired clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. For decades, he has combined all three disciplines to help people resolve mental, behavioral and emotional disorders; integrate their conscious and unconscious minds; and receive spiritual healing. He has taught at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being.
Through his philanthropic foundation, Greer has contributed to more than 60 charities and awarded more than 2,000 scholarships to aspiring students of
science, technology, engineering and mathematics. He holds a doctorate in finance and management from Columbia University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from National Louis University’s Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
Building upon his previous titles, including Change Your Story, Change Your Life and The Necktie and The Jaguar, Greer’s latest book is Go Within to Change Your Life: A Hidden Wisdom Workbook for Personal Transformation.
What problem does your latest book seek to address?
Most people ask themselves, “Why did I just say that?” or “Why did I do that?” Similarly, people are often unable to stick to their New Year’s resolutions, which they presumably really wanted to achieve when they set those goals. My belief is that there are hidden parts of ourselves that are influencing our behavior, and if we want to make changes in our lives, we need to go within to discover those parts of ourselves and get insights that heretofore have been hidden from us.
Why do you say that we are stuck in a story written by someone else?
We have influences from our past—including our genetics, upbringing and life experiences—that have both consciously and unconsciously influenced where we are right now and will influence our future. If we want to break free from those influences, we have to do some things differently.
We have to recognize what’s holding us back, and it’s often a story about how to achieve happiness and success that isn’t working for us and that we adopted without realizing it. These stories are often written by our families, communities and cultures.
How do you define “hidden wisdom”?
of Carl Greer
Courtesy
It’s a Jungian idea. Part of our psyche is what we’re aware of—our ego consciousness. Another part of the psyche that’s influencing us is our unconscious— both the personal unconscious (things we’ve chosen to keep hidden from our consciousness) and the collective unconscious (what Carl Jung described as containing archetypal energies that influence how we think, act and feel). By uncovering our hidden wisdom, we can make different conscious decisions.
The book has journaling prompts that encourage readers to answer some
introspective questions about themselves, but it also has exercises like guided visualizations and shamanic journeys for tapping into their unconscious. This way, readers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves—what’s working or not working for them, and what they most want.
Do we have to be in a meditative state to access hidden wisdom?
It certainly helps. Most of us are immersed in the busyness of everyday life, where our sympathetic nervous system is guiding us, causing us to respond to events rather than relax and
imagine what we might create for ourselves. Consequently, we’re not accessing insights that are below the surface of our awareness.
When we get into a meditative state, which is more relaxed, we’re not thinking about specific things. It’s kind of a diffuse awareness instead of a more focused one, so we’re more open to ideas and insights that we wouldn’t have been open to had we not been in that state. People get into that state through different means, such as psychotropic plants, shamanic rattling, sleep deprivation, extreme heat and cold, meditative breathing practices or being in nature.
What is your preferred method?
I’m 84 now, and for me it’s being in nature, learning to be still and becoming aware of the synchronicities—the meaningful coincidences we’re often too quick to dismiss. The idea is to keep a life issue in your consciousness while sitting under a tree, looking at flowers, lying on the grass or looking at a lake, and then paying attention to whatever comes up into your mind, which may be relevant to that life issue in ways that you could have never imagined.
Can you share a moment in nature that deeply affected you?
There are power places in nature that give you a different kind of energy. I’ve been fortunate to have been to some of those places, both in this country and abroad, causing me to ponder and get a better sense of metaphysical questions, such as, “What is our purpose here?” or “Where
will I be when I am no longer in this physical body? Am I going to go back to the place from which we all came? Am I going to have my consciousness?”
I’ve spent time meditating on those questions, not having the answers to them. Simply sitting beside lakes, on mountains or in the jungle has made me more aware of how I’m part of a bigger picture, and it has comforted me just to know that, without having any of the answers. I can’t answer why there’s evil in the world, but I feel I’m part of an unfolding that has wonderful aspects to it, a kind of agape love. That keeps me appreciating the mystery of our connection with what is hidden.
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit
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Courtesy of Carl Greer
Crafting Personal Fuel
Why Do-It-Yourself Protein Bars Are Worth the Effort
by Chloe Karydes Krecun
Portable and packed with beneficial nutrients, protein bars are a popular snack for busy lifestyles, fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to curb cravings and meet nutrition goals. While store-bought options are widely available, do-it-yourself (DIY) protein bars are easy to customize for individual dietary needs.
“A lot of people snack based on convenience,” says Melody Schoenfeld, a certified personal trainer in Pasadena, California. Protein bars offer a tasty, filling and nutritional goodie that can be consumed in just a few bites.
Yasi Ansari, a dietitian nutritionist, specialist in sports dietetics and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explains that homemade protein bars offer a fully customizable approach to nutrition. “Since the bars are DIY, you have full control over ingredients and flavor profiles,” she says. This means avoiding artificial additives, excessive sugars or allergens that may be present in commercial options.
Importance of Protein
Protein is a complex molecule made of amino acids that provides energy and functions as the building block for bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood. “It is the one macronutrient that is never abjured by fad diets,” says Janet Chrzan, Ph.D., a professor of nutrition at the University of Pennsylvania. “We have a cultural preference for protein; we Americans often consider it to be the most important element of food.”
As a health and nutrition coach, Schoenfeld advocates for convenient and easy ways to get protein into a diet. For many, protein bars fill that void. “For most people age 18 and beyond, we’re looking at consuming somewhere between 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per pound of body weight for a healthy adult daily,” Schoenfeld recommends.
Nutrition Goals
Before diving into a recipe, Ansari says it is important to determine how the bar will address a dietary need and ask, “Am I looking for a bar that helps with post-workout recovery, a snack to keep me full between meals or a fiber-rich option to support digestion?”
Knowing the purpose can guide ingredient selection. “For example, if it’s for the purpose of recovery, we’re going to want to make sure we’re getting close to 20 grams of protein per bar for muscle repair and building, while also getting enough
carbohydrates to restore energy,” says Ansari. Ingredients like dried fruits, oats or whole grains help boost carbohydrate content, making the bars more effective for post-workout replenishment.
For those aiming to create a gut-friendly bar, Ansari suggests being mindful of sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners that can cause digestive discomfort. “Consider smooth nut or seed butters if sensitive to crunchy varieties, and aim for fiber from nuts, dried fruits, flax and chia seeds,” she adds.
Ingredient Control
Both Schoenfeld and Ansari note that the greatest advantage of making protein bars at home is being able to select high-quality, nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether addressing dietary restrictions, avoiding allergens or satisfying a preference for organic, whole foods, DIY protein bars allow for total ingredient transparency.
Protein Bar Basics
A little investment of time helps ensure that healthy, smart and convenient snacks will always be within reach. Ansari offers these suggestions when crafting a protein bar at home:
• Choose a protein: Plant protein powders such as pea protein blend easily and well. Alternatives to powders include almond or seed butters, or whole nuts and seeds that can be chopped in a food processor.
• Choose a fruit: Fruits add fiber, micronutrients and antioxidants. Aim for two to three grams of fiber per bar. Tasty sources include dried apricots, dried cherries, dried apples, raisins and dates.
• Add spices: To amplify the flavor profile, include spices such as cinnamon, pumpkin spice or nutmeg.
• Experiment with texture: Add rice cereal for crunch or oats for a chewy consistency.
• Include healthy fats: Options include walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds and coconut oil.
• Incorporate carbohydrates: Oats, rice cereal or dried fruits are great choices for energy.
• Choose natural sweeteners: Dried fruits provide sweetness to any bar, as well as fiber and nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. A bit of fruit juice can also help blend the ingredients together. Other healthy alternatives are honey and maple syrup.
Chloe Karydes Krecun is a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Connect with her at LinkedIn.com/in/chloe-karydes-krecun.
PUMPKIN ENERGY BITES
For a boost of vitamins A and C, fiber and healthy fats, try these easy-to-make treats. Drinking extra fluids is recommended when consuming no-bake oat bites.
YIELD: 25 BITES
¾ cup smooth almond butter or sunflower seed butter
½ cup pumpkin puree
½ cup ground flax seeds
¼ cup honey
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1½ cup old-fashioned oats
Combine all the ingredients except for the oats in a large bowl. Form one to two tablespoons of the mix by hand into round bites. Roll the bites in the oats and place them in a bowl.
Place the bowl of bites in the freezer for 45 minutes to two hours based on desired firmness. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to six days, or keep them in the freezer for up to three months.
Recipe courtesy of Yasi Ansari, MS, RDN, CSSD, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
CINNAMON APPLE DATE BARS
These yummy bars provide iron, vitamin C, omega-3 and potassium
YIELD: 12 BARS
5 Medjool dates, pitted
⅓ cup dried apples
1½ cup old-fashioned oats
1 tsp chia seeds
1 cup almond or seed butter
⅓ cup protein powder (derived from brown rice or peas)
2 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1 Tbsp water or apple juice to blend if too sticky or crumbly
Mix dates and dried apples in the food processor. Add oats, chia seeds, almond or seed butter, protein powder, cinnamon and vanilla extract. If the almond or seed butter is too stiff before adding it to the food processor, gently warm it in the microwave for 15 to 30 seconds or place the jar in a bowl of hot water to loosen it.
Slowly blend the mixture until thickened. If the blend is too sticky or crumbly, add 1 tablespoon of water or apple juice for a softer texture.
Line a 13-by-10-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Add the mixture and firmly press down to spread it out evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator for two hours before cutting into bars.
Recipe courtesy of Yasi Ansari, MS, RDN, CSSD, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
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"Like so many families, I have been deeply affected by Alzheimer's, so I was thrilled to become a part of this film when I realized that there's hope, and it's not just a death sentence."
- Michael Bublé
GIDDY-UP BARS
YIELD: 10 BARS
2 cups Medjool dates, pitted (soak in water if hard)
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
½ cup hemp seeds or protein or collagen powder
1 cup raw cashews
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp maple syrup
Pinch of salt
Optional: 2 Tbsp instant coffee or espresso powder for an extra kick
Combine all ingredients into a bowl and mix well.
Form mixture into 1-inch by 3-inch bars. Add slightly more maple syrup or coconut oil to make the batter wetter, or slightly more shredded coconut, hemp seeds, protein or collagen powder to make the mixture drier to form into bars.
Place bars in a glass container and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. The bars will keep in the refrigerator for about one week or in the freezer for about one month.
Recipe courtesy of Holley Samuel, MEd, RD, CSSD, CPT, a sports dietitian.
Finding Balance
How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Can Help Relieve Vertigo
by Dr. Spencer Enga
Vertigo is more than just occasional dizziness—it can feel like the world is spinning out of control. Many sufferers experience nausea, disorientation and difficulty performing daily activities. While traditional treatments often focus on managing symptoms, there is a natural and effective way to address vertigo at its root cause: Upper cervical chiropractic care.
Dr. Spencer Enga, at Neckwise Tampa, specializes in a precise and gentle approach to chiropractic care that has helped many individuals regain their stability and quality of life. By correcting misalignments in the upper cervical spine, Dr. Enga and his team focus on restoring proper nerve function and balance, leading to lasting relief from vertigo.
A Life Transformed: Sarah's Story
Sarah, a 42-year-old mother of two, had been suffering from debilitating vertigo for years. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or playing with her kids became overwhelming as sudden dizziness would strike without warning. She had seen numerous specialists, tried medications and even undergone vestibular therapy, but nothing provided lasting relief. A friend recommended Neckwise Tampa, and though skeptical, Sarah decided to schedule a consultation with Dr. Enga.
After a thorough evaluation, including advanced Cone Beam CT (CBCT) imaging, Dr. Enga discovered a significant misalignment in her atlas vertebra. He explained how this misalignment could be interfering with her nervous system and contributing to her vertigo symptoms.
With a precise and gentle correction, Sarah began her healing journey. Unlike traditional chiropractic methods, there was no twisting or cracking—just targeted adjustments designed to restore balance. After just a few sessions, Sarah noticed a significant reduction in dizziness. Over the next few weeks, her vertigo episodes became less frequent and less intense. Now, months later, she enjoys a life free from constant spinning and uncertainty.
How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Helps
Upper cervical chiropractic care is highly specialized and gentle. At Neckwise Tampa, Dr. Enga utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, including CBCT imaging and thermal scans, to pinpoint the exact misalignment in the upper cervical spine. Once identified, Dr. Enga applies a precise and
gentle correction tailored to the individual’s needs. This non-invasive adjustment helps restore proper alignment, allowing the nervous system to function optimally and improving communication between the brain and body. The goal is long-term stability, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.
Healing through holding the adjustment. One unique aspect of care at Neckwise Tampa is their focus on helping patients hold their adjustments. Many people assume that frequent chiropractic visits are necessary, but Dr. Enga emphasizes stability over repeated manipulations. When the spine maintains proper alignment, the body can heal naturally, leading to sustainable improvement in vertigo symptoms.
A natural, long-term solution. For those struggling with vertigo, upper cervical chiropractic care offers a promising solution that addresses the root cause rather than just masking symptoms. Patients at Neckwise Tampa often report significant improvements, including reduced dizziness, better balance and an overall sense of well-being.
Consider exploring upper cervical chiropractic care. By restoring balance to the spine and nervous system, find the lasting relief you've been searching for—naturally and effectively.
Location: 2002 N. Lois Ave., Ste. 220, Tampa. For more information and to schedule a consultation, call 813-5496565 or visit Neckwise. com. See ad page 6.
Healing the Split From Nature
Accepting Earth’s Guidance
by Marlaina Donato
Gardeners have long understood that getting their hands in the earth makes them feel better, and scientific research supports this belief. Studies of the soil-dwelling bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae have linked the practice to improved mood, as well as reduced stress and anxiety, because it can trigger the release of serotonin. Other reported benefits include anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, relief from skin allergies and reduced lung cancer-related nausea and pain.
Data researchers at Statista report that a mere 8 percent of our lives is spent outdoors, leading to what author Richard Louv calls nature-deficit disorder, a phenomenon that compromises the
well-being of both children and adults. According to Pam Montgomery, author of Co-Creating with Nature: Healing the Wound of Separation, “We are a part of nature, and yet, we have fallen into this deep amnesia where we have forgotten that we are kin to the tree, the river, the mountain and all of life. Being separated from the source of one’s sustenance creates a deep chronic level of stress, which affects us on all levels.”
Whether we nurture houseplants, capture seasonal outdoor photographs, doodle in a nature journal, plant patio flowers or simply stroll a local park, reconnecting with living organisms can bolster our immune system, enhance cognitive function and improve mental well-being.
Green Allies
A 2020 review published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that as little as 10 to 20 minutes of time spent in nature improved the mental health of college-aged adults. Notably, being outdoors in urbanized settings did not yield comparable benefits. Furthermore, a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health revealed improved attention and focus among 23 students aged 11 to 13 years that studied with plants in the classroom.
“Our bodies evolved in the natural world, and, for many basic functions, we took our cues from the natural world— light levels, day length, plentifulness of resources. However, we now spend over 90 percent of our time in climatecontrolled buildings with artificial light, so we are cut off from these cues,” says Cynthia McPherson Frantz, chair of the department of psychology at Oberlin College, in Ohio.
Montgomery concurs, noting, “Because we are constantly surrounded by artificial electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) like those of cell phones, computers and alternating current, instead of the natural EMFs of the forest, streams, Earth, ocean, birdsong, et cetera, our energy bodies become full of static, and we lose the ability to hear the messages and receive the ‘touches’ from
nature.” For Montgomery, who maintains a shamanic partnership with the natural world, plants are conscious beings, and the Earth is calling us back into relationship, reciprocity and reverence.
Forest Frequencies
Communing with nature among the redwoods was medicine for Ellen Dee Davidson, author of Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places. “The main difference between forest bathing and an ordinary walk, hike or camping trip is the quality of attention we bring to the environment,” she explains. “By using our senses to focus on what we see, hear, smell, taste or touch, we become more present to our surroundings.”
Davidson attributes her recovery from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, anxiety and insomnia to the therapeutic effects of spending time in the trees. “Part of why immersing ourselves in nature is so healing is that we can be alone but not alone. We are part of the entangled weave of life,” she shares.
In a society where sensitivity is often seen as a liability, time spent with trees has taught Davidson how to protect her sensitive nature, giving herself permission to assert healthy boundaries and exercise self-compassion. She also advocates for mindful breathing exercises, noting, “We’re always connected to nature through our breath.”
Montgomery elaborates on the concept of reciprocal breathing, explaining, “We breathe in oxygen from the plants, trees and sea vegetables and breathe out carbon dioxide, which the plants absorb. So, the practice is to bring into your awareness a favorite plant or tree that you engage in reciprocal breathing with, becoming aware that you are the breath of another being.”
Forest Bathing Benefits
In Japan, shinrin-yoku, or “taking in the forest atmosphere,” emphasizes spending time among trees and was officially incorporated into a national health program by the government in 1982. A 2022 study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies indicates that forest bathing reduced blood pressure and stress hormone levels among participants compared to other environments.
Frantz suggests that tapping into nature’s vitality can be as simple as finding a corner of nature to study and check in with every day. “This pocket of nature doesn’t have to be big,” she says. “It could be the squirrel that lives in the tree outside your window, or the tree itself.”
Marlaina Donato is an author and multimedia expressionist. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
PamelaJoeMcFarlane from Getty Images Signature/ CanvaPro
Benefits of Creatine Supplementation
Reasons To Add It to Your Regimen
by Zak Logan
Creatine has been a popular supplement for athletes looking to enhance performance and increase muscle mass, but more recently other proactive groups have taken notice. Biohackers, for example, see it as an aid in their quest to optimize well-being and extend their healthspan, while geroscientists that study the mechanisms of aging have identified creatine as a possible intervention to delay, treat or prevent age-related diseases.
A naturally occurring compound, creatine helps provide a steady energy supply to skeletal muscles, enabling them to contract and flex. It is also a vital
contributor to numerous processes in the body. According to Jon Nakasone, owner of Aloha Personal Training, in Honolulu, three amino acids—arginine, glycine and methionine—collaborate to facilitate the body’s production of creatine, which in turn plays a pivotal role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy-carrying molecule in cells.
Most of the body’s biological processes rely on ATP for the conversion of glucose within cells. Nakasone also notes that creatine’s arginine is a precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide, a molecule that can improve blood flow, which is especially important
DGM007, makaule from Getty Images/CanvaPro
for men’s sexual function, as well as nutrient delivery to muscles.
Physical Benefits
Approximately 95 percent of the body’s creatine is found in skeletal muscle as phosphocreatine, where it serves as a rapid energy source during high-intensity activities. While naturally produced by the body, creatine is also consumed as a dietary supplement to enhance athletic performance. Since the 1990s, some individuals have reported positive fitness gains when using creatine supplements.
A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients indicates that creatine supplementation combined with resistance training can significantly improve upper and lower-body muscle strength in healthy, middle-aged adults, compared with resistance training alone. Nakasone and his team propose a holistic approach to fitness, emphasizing exercise, a healthy diet and quality sleep. However, they assert that creatine can provide additional benefits, especially for men seeking to enhance muscle size, power output and recovery.
According to an article by Dr. Howard E. LeWine, chief medical editor at Harvard Health, there is evidence that creatine supplementation, when combined with a proper diet that includes adequate protein intake, can accelerate muscle recovery after strenuous exercise.
Other Benefits
Creatine is one of the most widely researched supplements, and findings suggest that it may help to protect against oxidative stress and balance cellular energy in other parts of the body, including the heart and brain. Research published last year in the journal Nutrients underscores the benefits of creatine monohydrate in mitigating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s, as well as sarcopenia, a muscle-wasting condition prevalent in older individuals. Creatine also shows promise in addressing chronic fatigue syndrome, mild traumatic brain injury, cardiovascular disease and long COVID.
A systematic study published last year in Frontiers in Nutrition shows that creatine monohydrate supplementation can enhance memory, information processing speed and attention span in adults. Cases of osteoporosis and frailty have also shown improvement, especially when creatine intake is combined with resistance training.
Tips and Precautions
For optimal fitness outcomes, creatine powder is preferred due to its notable stability compared with other forms such as liquid and ethyl ester, which tend to be less effective and prone to breakdown before adequate utilization. Regarding dosage,
Nakasone recommends starting with three grams a day, and, if it is tolerated well, gradually increasing it to five grams for a greater effect, if desired. However, he cautions against exceeding this dosage limit.
The Mayo Clinic endorses the safety of creatine when used as prescribed and suggests its use for up to five years by healthy individuals, noting that it does not appear to cause kidney damage in individuals with healthy kidney function. Potential interactions include a reduction in creatine’s efficacy when combined with caffeine. Creatine supplementation with 300 milligrams of caffeine or greater may hasten the progression of Parkinson’s disease. The Cleveland Clinic advises anyone with chronic kidney disease and other kidney-related problems to avoid taking creatine.
Research published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2021 dispels common misconceptions regarding the side effects of creatine, including testosterone increase and hair loss. Nevertheless, some people report mild water retention for the first week when the supplement is first introduced into their regimen.
Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living and getting back to basics.
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Healing the Stress Response
Natural Steps to Restoring Adrenal Health
by Carrie Jackson
Located on top of the kidneys, the adrenal glands are responsible for regulating the body’s response to stress. When working properly, they release hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, enabling us to respond appropriately to physical and emotional triggers. However, prolonged stress can trigger an overactive response and symptoms known as adrenal fatigue. By regulating the nervous system and adopting mindful lifestyle choices, people can effectively manage their symptoms and learn to respond to stress in a healthier way.
Understanding Adrenal Dysfunction
Stress can come from many sources. “While we often think of stress in
psychological terms, it may also come from factors like sleep deprivation, overtraining, skipping meals or being overworked. For many men, the pressure to do everything leads to complete burnout,” says Alexandra MacKillop, DC, a Chicago-based functional medicine doctor.
The body normally releases stress hormones for a brief period before returning to baseline levels. However, with adrenal fatigue, we lose the ability to manage stress this way. MacKillop explains, “In stage one, the hormones are produced in excess. In stage two, the body loses the ability to differentiate periods of stress and rest, and cortisol and DHEA [dehydroepiandrosterone] levels run inappropriately high or low. In stage three, the
body altogether fails to produce a sufficient adrenal response, resulting in the symptoms we refer to as adrenal fatigue.”
Symptoms vary in severity and condition. “In addition to causing fatigue, brain fog, sleep disruptions, lightheadedness, irritability and other neurocognitive symptoms, adrenal fatigue manifests with decreased libido, difficulty building muscle or burning body fat, hair loss, body aches, low blood pressure, salt and sugar cravings, and patches of hyperpigmented skin,” MacKillop points out.
Managing the Stress Response
According to MacKillop, the initial step in addressing a condition is to accurately diagnose and identify its underlying cause, rather than solely focusing on symptoms. “Treatment is patient-specific according to the root cause and may involve nutritional strategies for managing blood sugar such as supplementing with electrolytes and other salts to regulate blood pressure. Other nutraceutical strategies include adaptogenic herbs, protomorphogen extracts and addressing hormonal imbalances in the body,” she says.
Dr. Tricia Pingel, a licensed naturopathic physician based in Arizona, asserts that shifting the nervous system from the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) mode to the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) mode can alleviate adrenal fatigue. “Our adrenal
glands are responsible for deciding what’s a stress trigger, but they don’t know if it’s a small or big stressor. While you’re probably not being chased by a bear, it could be that email from your boss that ticks you off or an emotional reaction to something you saw on social media. When we react with fear of any sort, our adrenal glands trigger to protect us,” she explains.
By acknowledging the source of stress and actively deciding how to respond, individuals can effectively regulate their nervous system’s response. Pingel recommends pausing to contemplate appropriate actions in stressful situations, consciously deciding to either directly address the issue if it is within their control, delegate the responsibility to someone else or allow the stress to dissipate when it is not worth the struggle.
Choosing Nutritional Aids
“When you are under stress, the body depletes nutrients quickly. This is especially true of vitamins C, B5, B6 and B12, folate and minerals such as magnesium, selenium and zinc. Eating whole, nutrient-dense foods provides the fuel to offset the stressors,” says Pingel. “I recommend a Mediterranean-based, antiinflammatory diet that includes a variety of colors. Greens can come from kale, romaine, arugula and chard. Berries provide fiber and antioxidants, while nuts and seeds add healthy fats. Non-GMO tofu, wild-caught fish, organic and grass-fed poultry and eggs add clean protein. Make sure that you’re being mindful when you eat. Sit down, have a conversation and chew. This calms the mind and allows you to digest.”
For additional support, Pingel suggests herbal supplements such as ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea to calm the body, phosphatidylserine and L-theanine to suppress cortisol output and herbs like valerian to
help calm the brain. Ideally, supplements should be taken before bedtime, when the body is calmer and has time to absorb them.
Incorporating Movement
Balancing movement and rest can also help manage symptoms. Pingel explains, “Focusing on building muscle, especially in your core, can boost the metabolism and help your body regulate. Yoga, tai chi and strength training, combined with a light cardio activity, can give you time to repair from the triggered state.”
Recalibrating Mindset
Our mindset has a huge impact on our nervous system. “No amount of supplements will do anything if the body is not calm,” Pingel points out. “Health trackers and apps can help people train their brain from beta to alpha waves. Breathing is our natural way to get into the parasympathetic state. It pulls on the diaphragm, which in turn stimulates the vagus nerve. Humming, singing and other vocalization can have a similar impact and help relieve stress.”
Expressing Gratitude
Ultimately, cultivating an attitude of gratitude proves remarkably effective in mitigating adrenal fatigue. “If you come from a place of love and gratitude instead of fear and anger, you can actually change the way your body interprets it,” notes Pingel. “Reframe the messages your body is sending you as a reminder to practice self-care, and treat yourself with love, compassion and gratitude.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Staying Active With Dad
Three Fathers Share Their Stories
by Megy Karydes
Movement serves as a universal language, and one of the most powerful ways fathers can connect with their children. According to a study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, when parents model active lifestyles, they not only boost their own fitness but also lay the foundation for their children’s lifelong physical, social and cognitive development.
Regular physical engagement builds habits that can lead to healthier, happier lives. When a family engages in such activities together, what may have started out as exercise
becomes a memory-making, relationshipenhancing and mood-boosting occasion.
Whether tossing a ball, hiking a trail or simply dancing in the living room, physical activity provides dads and kids a shared experience that strengthens their bond. There are many easy ways to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of screens and daily routines.
Making Movement Fun
“The goal, at least from my parenting perspective, is to raise healthy, happy and resilient kids. A lot of people take for
granted how powerful play can be,” says Brian Comly, an occupational therapist and father of two who founded Mind BodyDad.com to help families enjoy movement, play and togetherness. “It’s important for adults to model curiosity, creativity and connection, and instill these skills early. Oftentimes, the substitute is a phone, tablet or TV, which actually inhibits or atrophies these skills.”
W. Zach Smith, a Seattle-based physical therapist and founder of HIDEF Physical Therapy, believes that modeling healthy behavior and starting early is paramount, and it doesn’t have to be overly complicated. “Starting from a young age, I would bring my kids to the garage when I worked out. Now, both of them will copy me and grab small, one-to-three-pound dumbbells and do a lot of the exercises that I do,” Smith shares, adding that when the kids were younger, they would help him with the yard work, pulling the garden cart and picking up after him.
Rucking, a practice where a child is strapped to the back of a parent or caregiver for a walk, has been a favorite activity for both Comly and Smith. Smith notes that rucking not only enhances the physical challenge for the parent but also provides immense enjoyment for their children. As his daughter has matured, she has developed the ability to jump out of her stroller and run alongside it for extended periods, alternating between running and resting.
Prioritizing Connection
Physical activities foster a deeper connection between individuals, extending beyond simple muscle development. Andres Ochoa, a project manager in Chicago and a father of two daughters aged 10 and 12, has observed that engaging in shared physical activities strengthens their family bond. After meeting their respective sports commitments during the week, Ochoa makes sure to dedicate the weekends to family time.
Ochoa finds that shared physical activities enable him to remain fully present and focused, while minimizing distractions. “Being together and active creates moments of true connection, where kids feel seen and valued,” he says, noting that such moments can lead to meaningful conversations, stronger emotional ties and improved communication.
Depending on the season, Ochoa may take his daughters to their local YMCA to practice basketball or ride bikes on a nearby trail. Occasionally, they will set a family goal such as completing a 5K run. Ochoa’s primary objective is not to introduce additional stress into their lives. They participate in the Turkey Trot every year, and in the absence of scheduled races, engage in runs as a family, challenging each other. He often allows his daughters to take the lead in selecting their activities.
Small Habits, Big Impact
Even with today’s digital distractions, dads that prioritize physical activity find creative ways to incorporate movement into their
daily routines. For instance, Ochoa walks his daughters to school every Friday whenever possible. If the weather is bad or they are headed somewhere after school, he strategically parks several blocks away, allowing them to walk for a portion of the journey.
While structured sports offer numerous benefits, Comly reminds parents not to forget about unstructured play. “Kids, for hundreds of thousands of years, evolved to explore the environment, not plastic toys,” he quips. “That’s literally how they learn and how they grow. They are meant to engage with each other, and in a natural environment, and the parent’s role is to help facilitate that, not interfere with it.”
Odua
Images/CanvaPro
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
Feathered Friends
The
Care and Feeding of Pet Birds
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Birds are captivating, intelligent and long-lived companions, but their care demands commitment and expertise.
Bird Selection
According to a paper presented by certified veterinary technician Liz H. Wilson at an American Veterinary Medical Association forum, when selecting a bird species, consider the following factors.
• Space: Large birds such as macaws require spacious cages, while smaller birds like budgies can thrive in more compact enclosures.
• Noise: Consider noise tolerance before choosing a bird as a pet, especially in shared households with multiple
occupants. Cockatoos and conures can be very loud, while canaries and finches are generally quieter.
• Lifespan: Some bird species have a relatively short lifespan, while African greys and cockatoos can live more than 50 years. As a result, owners must plan for long-term care when choosing certain birds as pets.
• Social Needs: Parrots and other social birds need regular interaction to maintain their mental well-being. Lack of social contact can lead to stress, aggression and feather plucking.
• Allergies: Powder-down species, such as cockatiels and cockatoos, produce dander that can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma.
Environment
Choosing the appropriate home environment is crucial when keeping a bird as a pet. The Association of Avian Veterinarians Basic Care for Companion Birds guide notes that birds are usually comfortable in the same room temperatures that people enjoy. However, sudden temperature fluctuations can make a sick bird’s condition worse. Pet birds can thrive in both dry and humid air, although tropical birds may benefit from extra moisture. Fresh air and natural sunlight also support good health, provided a shady spot is available to prevent overheating.
A Balanced Diet
Many pet birds have limited exposure to fresh foods. Nicole Sztabkowski, a holistic pet health coach in British Columbia, Canada, shares that she acquired her two green-cheeked conures, Cheche and Atlas, when they were 2 and 3 years old. Their diet had consisted mainly of seeds, and like so many parrots, they had never been introduced to the wide variety of fresh foods they require for optimal health.
Over time, Sztabkowski transitioned them to a nutrient-rich diet. “Birds thrive on diversity, and a well-rounded diet includes a mix of fruits, vegetables, sprouted grains and even fresh teas like chamomile,” she explains. A nutritious diet should include:
• Fruits in moderation due to natural sugars, including berries, apples (without seeds), bananas, mango, pomegranate, kiwi and dragon fruit
• Vegetables should make up a large portion of the bird’s diet, featuring bell peppers, carrots, leafy greens, broccoli, squash and zucchini
• Grains and seeds such as quinoa, brown rice, oats, flaxseeds and millet
• Legumes cooked and rinsed, including lentils, chickpeas, black beans and kidney beans
Andrea Dean Van Scoyoc, of Port Richey, shares, “The original wall cat, Butterscotch was hiding out with her mom and siblings in the attic until she fell down the wall, behind the stove. Six-y-o, she’s smart, spoiled and definitely her own queen bee...or in her case, cat!” Beautiful.
Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.
While some commercial pellets can be included, they should not replace fresh food. “Much like the dog food industry has pushed kibble, the bird world has shifted toward ultra-processed pellets as the ‘ideal’ diet. We’ve lost sight of what these still-wild, exotic animals actually need,” admonishes Sztabkowski.
Certain foods are toxic to birds. “Chocolate, onions, avocados, garlic, caffeine, alcohol, high-salt and high-sugar foods, fruit pits and apple seeds (which contain cyanide) are all dangerous,” warns Sztabkowski.
Hydration and Water Quality
Birds need clean, fresh water. Pet owners should change the pet’s water at least twice a day and wash their water bowls daily to prevent bacteria caused by the bird dipping food into the bowl. “Bird-safe water fountains can also encourage them to drink,” says Sztabkowski.
Preventing Diseases
A common avian health issue is fatty liver disease, which results from eating too many high-fat seeds. “The first signs are feather color changes, fatigue and weight gain,” says Sztabkowski. A balanced diet of fresh veggies, whole grains and lean proteins from legumes can help prevent this.
Breathing problems are another issue. “Airborne toxins can make it hard for birds to
breathe,” Sztabkowski explains. Good airflow and avoiding strong artificial smells can lower the risk. Common culprits include air fresheners, plug-ins, bleach, scented candles, paint fumes, plastic roasting bags and personal products like perfume or nail polish if used regularly nearby.
Mental Stimulation
Birds need mental and physical engagement to prevent boredom, stress and behavioral issues like feather plucking or excessive screaming. Ways to keep birds stimulated are:
• Toys: Rotate foraging, shreddable and puzzle toys.
• Exercise: Provide supervised flight time or climbing structures.
• Socialization: Interact, train and talk to them daily.
• Food variety: Use foraging toys or skewers to make meals engaging.
• Sensory enrichment: Play calming music or provide safe window views.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Printed calendar is a gratis feature for advertisers. Non-advertisers: get your Mark Your Calendar event listed for $50/listing. Email dwilson@natampa.com for more info. On line version of Calendar of Events gratis at NATampa.com.
Calendar of Events
Tuesday, June 3
FREE Holistic Health Gathering - 6-7pm. Join us for an informal hour where you will meet and interact with several practitioners of natural health, including Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Board Certified Clinical & Medical Hypnotherapist. Dr. Lisa Marsh, Chiropractor, hosts these gatherings on the 1st Tuesday monthly at Holistic Center for Vibrant Health, Oldsmar. More info: 727-9435003 or UPHypnosis@yahoo.com
Saturday, June 7
Discover the Power of Your Subconscious Mind - 2-4pm. Join us for a Hypnotherapy Presentation with certified Hypnotherapist Rosan Larizza. Curious as to how hypnotherapy can help with stress, anxiety, habits or self-confidence? This interactive session explores what hypnotherapy is and isn’t and how your subconscious shapes your thoughts and behaviors, along with interactive exercises and a Q & A session. Roma Holistic Health, 6161 Dr. Martin Luther King St. N, Ste. 100, St. Pete, 727-692-7154.
Saturday, June 14
bare RV Resort 3rd Anniversary Pool Party & BBQ - 1-4pm. Help bare RV Resort celebrate our 3rd anniversary! A clothing optional pool party with live music, a BBQ and lots of fun. $15/Ladies; $30/Gentlemen; $35/Couples. 6901 Caliente Blvd., Land O Lakes, 813-996-6008, bareRVResort.com
7-Day Heal Your Life® Workshop Leader Training Certification — June 14-20. In Louise Hay’s philosophy. Lead up to 15 different workshops. Patricia Crane, 760539-2227. Training, Orlando. For complete information: https://HealYourLifeTraining.com/florida-2025
Sunday, June 15
Happy Father’s Day
Wednesday, June 18
FREE Hypnosis-NLP Webinar “Unleash Your Inner Resources” - 7:30-8:30pm. Interactive webinar hosted by Board Certified Medical Hypnotherapist, Master Trainer & NLP Master Practitioner, Patricia V. Scott Ph.D. Patti shares 33 years of experience with practical, easy to use concepts & techniques with Q&A. All welcome 3rd Wednesday monthly w/various topics. May include a hypnotic experience. Register for log-in details: UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com.
Saturday, June 21
Holistic Health Discovery Event - 10am4pm.Come meet experienced practitioners, ask questions and learn how different approaches can support your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. This is your chance to discover new possibilities, connect with a like-minded community, and take steps toward deeper healing—all in one welcoming space. Event is Free. Just stop by and explore. Roma Holistic Health, 6161 Dr MLK Jr St N, Ste. 102, St. Pete. 727-692-7154.
Basic Hypnosis & NLP 2-Day Training
Online - 2-7pm, June 21 & 22. Fun, interactive class gives you basic knowledge and skills of Hypnosis & NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) principles & techniques. Learn by experiencing. Help yourself and others achieve goals and make positive, permanent changes. Includes workbook, video replay, Hypnosis MP3, Certificate of Completion. $65 or $55/ (UPHI Mbr). Register: UPHypnosis.com/hypnosis-nlp-2-day.
Saturday, June 28
Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification (Online) - 1-6pm. Four interactive weekends plus outside assignments. Prerequisite: 200 hours prior hypnosis training. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer for the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association, teaches medical applications to work with referrals. Dates: June 28-29; July 1213, 26-27; Aug. 9-10. Early registration discount before 6/10. UPHypnosis.com.
Saturday, July 19
Hypnosis International Certification Begins - Receive 3 Certifications: International Association of Counselors & Therapists, International Hypnosis Federation & UP Hypnosis Institute with Patricia V. Scott, Ph.D. Training online (Zoom) w/ some “Live” for locals (Oldsmar). Learn basic & advanced techniques, medical uses, regression, parts-integration, time-line techniques, smoking cessation, weight control, NLP & more. Enroll by 6/30 for Early Discount. Pay-Over-Time available. 727-943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.
Friday, August 8
Wisdom of Light Conference - Aug. 8-10, 3pm Fri through 3pm Sun. A weekend gathering of leaders in the fields of Science, Spirit, Ancient Civilizations, Health and more. Conference Fee: $444. Charlotte Harbor Event Center in Punta Gorda. Details and a full list of speakers and events are posted at WisdomOfLightConference.com.
The Great Outdoors
Coming in July
Ongoing Events
Sunday
Free Dianetics Film - 10am-10pm, Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm, SatSun. What Happens When We are Unconscious? In this 30-minute film, Dianetics explains the discovery of the Reactive Mind for the source of your fears, insecurity, phobias and nightmares. 1300 E 8th Ave., Tampa, 813-872-0723.
Monday
Prosperity Activation Hour - 11am-noon, every Mon. in June. “Embody Your Most Abundant Timeline”. Join Elasa & Medet for powerful Higher Self Therapy group regressions to dissolve blocks, align with prosperity and embody your most abundant, love-filled timeline. $20. R3Miracles, 1017 Illinois Ave., Palm Harbor. Info & registration, Elasa Tiernan 727-221-7564, R3Miracles. com
Meacham Urban Farm - 3-7pm Mon. & Fri. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more, MeachamFarm.com.
Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 5:45pm, Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/Sarasota-ClassesFeldenkrais/
Tuesday
Restorative Yoga with Collette - 5-6:30pm. Unwind and let go with a calm and recharged flow. A gentle practice with fully supportive postures, mindfulness and breath. This beginner’s session will help reduce stress, ease physical and mental tension, increase balance, strength and flexibility. Boosting overall health and energy levels. Space limited. $15/per class. Six Oaks Wellness, Garden Suite, 607 1st Ave. SW, Largo. RSVP 727-250-9688.
Wednesday
Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 11am, Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/ replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/SarasotaClasses-Feldenkrais/
Yoga Session: Hatha Yoga with a Therapist -6:30-7:30ish pm. Join Elizabeth Rice, LCSW ACE CFI, for a yoga session that will not only strengthen your mind-body connection, but will help you to get in deeper touch with your inner calm. Space is limited, reserve now. $15/per session. 6251 Park Blvd., Ste. 9, Pinellas Park. 727-346-5875.
Thursday
Shamanic Sound Healing Journeys - 7-8:30pm. Using our multidimensional soundscapes and psychedelic videos will take you on a deep dive within Self, where knowledge, guidance and wisdom are abundant. Event takes place in virtual reality which can be accessed via computer or with VR headsets (ideal). Free. Host: JoAnn Shivanti | VRchat.com VITAL.3731 | World: Psychedelic Caverns. Info, 3rdeyeguidance.com/events, 727-4347433, shivanti@3rdeyeguidance.com.
Friday
Restorative Yoga with Collette - 9-10:30am. Unwind and let go with a calm and recharged flow. A gentle practice with fully supportive postures, mindfulness and breath. This beginner’s session will help reduce stress, ease physical and mental tension, increase balance, strength and flexibility. Boosting overall health and energy levels. Space limited. $15/per class. Six Oaks Wellness, Garden Suite, 607 1st Ave. SW, Largo. RSVP 727-250-9688.
Quantum Soul School - 1-2:22pm, every Mon. in June. “Awaken Your Eternal Self”. Activate, align and awaken with Elasa through quantum mechanics, intuitive development, Higher Self channeling, quantum soul practices & guided meditations. $25. R3Miracles, 1017 Illinois Ave., Palm Harbor. Info & registration, Elasa Tiernan, 727-221-7564, R3Miracles.com
Saturday
Meacham Urban Farm - 9am-1pm Sat. 10am-1pm Sun. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more, MeachamFarm.com.
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.
Alternative Medicine
LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. David Minkoff, M.D.
Dr. Griselle Figueredo, M.D.
Dr. Neena Iyer, M.D., Dr. Dawn Frankwick 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.
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. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards. See ad page 35.
Dr. Grossgold practices internal medicine and pediatrics with an integrative approach to detoxification, anti-aging medicine, functional medicine and nutrition. His clinic offers Integrative Cancer Treatment, Cryotherapy, Hyperbaric, EBOO, MHA, UVBI, Theta Chamber and more! See ad page 15.
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 25.
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.”
Certification Course
HEAL YOUR LIFE® TRAINING
Patricia J. Crane, Ph.D. 760-539-2227
HealYourLifeTraining.com/florida-2025
Master Louise Hay’s proven methods for helping others heal and transform their lives. This comprehensive certification training equips you with complete workshop materials, licensing, and skills to launch your teaching practice.
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 8.
PROFESSIONAL
LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner 9371 US 19N, Suite B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Complementing detoxification via “Lymphatic Therapy” (see listing), now offering Gravity Method colonics (closed system method), known to be gentler and more effective than other methods. See ad page 27.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Lisa Harris-Dalton 609 Lakeview Rd., Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.or, #MA27502, #MM43949
Compassionate therapist with 26+ years’ experience in massage therapy and open and closed colon hydrotherapy systems. Skilled in collaborating with clients/physicians to optimize wellness goals. See ad page 15.
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 Spalike atmosphere. See ad back cover.
Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before. —Dalai Lama Place your business listing here Call 727-865-9339 for more information
CARLO LITANO, DMD
Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 132 Mirror Lake Dr., Suite 101, St. Petersburg 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 and 7.
ROBERT J. YU, DMD
Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Pete 727-384-9122
TBPerio.com
The only board certified periodontist and implant surgeon in Tampa Bay offering ceramic/zirconia nonmetal implants. State-of-the-art treatments include CBT imaging, LANAP and digital intraoral scanner, eliminating messy impressions. See ad page 9.
Harmonic Egg®
ROMA HOLISTIC HEALTH
6161 Dr. Martin Luther King, Ste. 100 St. Pete 727-692-7154
RomaHolisticHealth.com
Supporting chronic pain management and stress reduction utilizing natural, non-invasive alternative modalities, including: Harmonic Egg ® ; PEMF/Frequency Therapy; Energy Healing; Biomagnetism; Neurofeedback & more. See ad page 10.
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
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, Anti-aging and more. Out-of-Network Provider.
INTEGRAL URGENT CARE
Dr. Salome Masghati, MD
Sheryl McCarty, APRN Dennis Eroh, PA-C 130 Island Way, Clearwater 727-233-1933
IntegralUrgentCare.com
Integral Urgent Care & Primary Care prioritizes patient-centered care, providing Primary Care and walk-in Urgent Care services weekdays 9am-5pm, plus weekends 9am-2pm for convenience.
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.
—Sara Gottfried
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 page 11.
SUCCESS BY DESIGN
9095 Belcher Road North, 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 17.
Lymphatic Therapy
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner 9371 US 19N, Suite B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Specializing in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and lymphatic enhancement therapy (LET). Professional Lymphatic helps those with challenging conditions including inflammation, mold toxicity; auto-immune conditions, post chemo healing, etc. See ad page 27.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Jill Gonzalez-Cass
609 Lakeview Rd., Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org #MA32561, #MM43949
CManual and Assisted Lymphatic Therapy & Colon Hydrotherapy with I-ACT Training. Longtime health and wellness advocate with 24+ years’ experience in massage and colonic therapies. See ad page 15.
Psychologist
ELIZABETH RICE, LCSW
6251 PARK BLVD., STE. 9C, PINELLAS PARK 33781
727-300-9382
esLifeCoach.com, License SW15178
Heal the whole being including body, mind, spirit and emotions. Increase your quality of life; facilitate emotional healing. Specializing in Anxiety, Mood, Behavior, Trauma, Family. See ad page 23.
Reflexology
REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES
Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater, MA0028171
RV Resort
BARE RV RESORT
6901 Caliente Blvd. Land O’Lakes 34637 813-996-6008
BareRVResort.com
Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.
Thermography
GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY
John D. Bartone 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.
FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY
June Drennon, CCT 2008
JuneDrennon@
FloridaMedicalThermography.com
727-729-2711
FloridaMedicalThermography.com
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. See ad page 20.
Veterinarian
HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM
2189 Cleveland St., Clearwater, FL 33765
727-510-3665
A clothing optional oasis, resort and campground perfect for first-time nudists. Women owned/operated, offering a welcoming and relaxing environment to be at one with nature.
Spiritual Intuitive
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, Personalized Astrology Reports, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/ Mentor & more.
HealthyPawsibilities.com
Offering only holistic health options. Nutrition, herbal support, body balancing, canine fitness, reiki and more. See ad page 41.
PAWSITIVE VETERINARY CARE
Shawna L. Green, DVM 11125 Park Blvd., Ste 108, Seminole
727-299-9029
Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet, offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more. See ad page 41.
Natural Awakenings is a monthly publication for our community to pick up free of charge, made possible by the ongoing support of the advertisers you see within the pages of this magazine. If you enjoy the content provided within this publication, please support the advertisers who make this free magazine possible.
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