Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.
Publisher’s Letter
As the season of gratitude arrives, the team extends warm wishes for a joyful, restorative Thanksgiving. This time invites reflection, renewal, and connection — themes echoed throughout this month’s featured articles, each offering insight into cultivating balance, vitality, and well-being.
In From Exhaustion to Energy: Your Fall Rejuvenation Guide, readers are encouraged to slow down, replenish, and rediscover the body’s rhythm after months of overextension. The piece explores simple yet powerful ways to restore energy as the days grow shorter.
Balancing Blood Sugar Naturally: Steady Energy Begins on the Plate explores how nutrition shapes energy, focus and mood. With practical strategies for maintaining stability, it empowers readers to nourish themselves with intention.
For those caught in the “tired but wired” cycle, Tired but Wired: Rebalancing the Cortisol-Sleep Disruption Cycle examines the science of stress and rest, offering guidance on reclaiming deep, restorative sleep through mindful lifestyle adjustments.
Finally, Virtual Pet Care: The Rise of Telemedicine and Teleadvice highlights how technology reshapes the way pet owners support their companions’ health, emphasizing accessibility and innovation in veterinary care. This Thanksgiving, may readers find renewed energy, balance and gratitude in every moment.
ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS
Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.
HOW TO ADVERTISE
To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 727-865-9339 or email dwilson@natampa. com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month
EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS
Advertisers email articles, news briefs to dwilson@natampa. com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
Email Calendar Events to: dwilson@natampa.com. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month.
NATIONAL MARKETS
Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 727-865-9339. For franchising opportunities call 239-206-2000 or email Natural Awakenings@KnoWEwell.com.
∙ BHRT including pellets
∙ Wt-Loss Metabolic with GLP-1s
∙ Type II Diabetes
∙ Adrenal Fatigue
∙ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
∙ Thyroid
∙ IV Therapy ∙ PRP Injections
Acupuncture
Nutritional Blood Analysis
MonaLisa
∙ Prolozone Therapy
∙ Chronic Infection Treatments
∙ GI Repair
∙ Chelation Therapy
∙ Autoimmune Disorders
Liana Kramer, AP, DOM Lauren Delaney, APRN
Stacy Chase, DO, FACOFP, FAOGME
Jeanne Bangtson, DC
Tracie Leonhardt, DO Medical Director
New Book Offers Comfort for Coping with Family Losses During the Holidays
Hi
Mom, It’s Me: Hope, Love and the After Life, a new book by Nancy Yuskaitis of The Art of Soulful Inspired Living, is a true story of spiritual connection, healing, and the enduring truth that love never dies. After losing both of her daughters decades apart, Yuskaitis began receiving messages from the afterlife that transformed her grief and opened a path to peace.
A psychic medium, Reiki Master, and certified spiritual life and creativity coach, Yuskaitis channels healing through writing, art, and soulful connection. Her book shares messages of hope and resilience, offering comfort to anyone facing loss—especially during the holidays.
A Florida native and former Naples resident, she now lives in Tampa Bay and Santa Fe with her husband, Bob, and their dog, Autumn.
Hi Mom, It’s Me is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book formats. A portion of proceeds supports parents who have lost a child. For Spiritual Life Coaching or a Soulful Starlight Session, email HopeLoveAndTheAfterLife@gmail.com or visit NancyYuskaitis.com and the Facebook group @hopeloveandtheafterlife.
Breakthrough Pain Relief with the Erchonia FX 405
The revolutionary Erchonia FX 405 Laser is the first and only laser in the world to receive FDA market clearance for the treatment of chronic low back pain. In addition to back pain, the FX 405 effectively addresses plantar fasciitis, musculoskeletal injuries, trauma, and other inflammatory conditions.
Proven in double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials, this cutting-edge technology achieved a 58% reduction in pain at a two-month follow-up. These results confirm the FX 405’s powerful, non-invasive effectiveness and represent a major advancement for both the pain management field and efforts to reduce opioid dependence.
During the initial visit, Dr. Lara performs a personalized assessment before administering a comfortable, non-invasive and pain-free laser session lasting 15–20 minutes. For optimal results, treatments are recommended twice weekly for at least four weeks.
Patients are invited to discover how the Erchonia FX 405 can help them live pain-free—without surgery, medication or downtime.
Location: Dr. Lara’s Center for Weight Management and Wellness, 1217 Ewing Ave, Clearwater. Call 727-446-3021 to schedule an appointment or visit DrLaraWeightLoss.com. See ad, page 35.
Yoga’s Role in Preventing Memory Loss
Kundalini yoga focuses on personal growth and spiritual connection through movement, breathing, meditation and sound in the form of mantras or chants. A 2024 study in Translational Psychiatry examined its potential to help older women at risk for memory problems and dementia.
The study involved 63 women aged 50 and older that were experiencing early memory decline and increased dementia risk due to conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned to either a kundalini yoga group or a memory enhancement training (MET) group. The MET group performed verbal and visual memory-building exercises. All of the women met weekly with an instructor and practiced for 12 minutes daily at home over 12 weeks.
The yoga group reported greater improvements in how they felt about their memory. Gene testing showed beneficial changes in biological pathways linked to aging and inflammation in the yoga group, which were absent in the MET group. Additionally, levels of a harmful inflammation-related protein rose in the MET group but remained stable in the yoga group.
Brain scans of a subset of participants indicated that the yoga group experienced increased brain size linked to memory, as well as enhanced connectivity between memory-related brain regions, while the MET group showed shrinkage in these areas.
A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life.
—William Arthur Ward
Meditation for Pain Relief
Researchers at the University of California San Diego and Dartmouth College used advanced brain imaging and artificial intelligence to study how various interventions influence the brain’s perception of pain. The 2025 study, published in Biological Psychiatry, analyzed data from two previous trials involving 115 healthy adults randomly assigned to one of four groups.
The mindfulness meditation group was taught breathwork and how to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. The sham-mindfulness group did not receive proper mindfulness instructions. The placebo cream group received a cream without active ingredients. The control group listened to an audiobook. Each group completed four, 20-minute sessions of their assigned activities, followed by brain scans while pain was applied to their leg.
The researchers discovered that mindfulness meditation significantly reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness more than the other groups. Brain scans revealed that mindfulness meditation decreased activity in neural patterns associated with both physical pain and emotional response to pain.
These findings suggest that mindfulness meditation reduces pain by directly altering sensory and emotional pain processing in the brain, whereas the placebo effect changes pain expectations. Further research is needed to confirm that mindfulness meditation can produce similar results for people with chronic pain.
Air Pollution’s Effect on Fetal Brain Development
A recent study in The Lancet Planetary Health assessed air pollution exposure in more than 750 pregnant women in Barcelona, Spain, using neurosonography imaging to examine their baby’s fetal brain structure during the third trimester. Researchers measured the mothers’ exposure to nitrogen dioxide, fine particles and black carbon at home, work and during daily travel. Black carbon forms when fossil fuels, wood or biologic materials burn incompletely.
The study revealed that higher exposure to these pollutants was linked to changes in the shape and size of certain brain structures. Fetuses exposed to higher levels of black carbon had larger fluid-filled spaces in the brain, a larger cerebellum and a shallower fold in the brain known as the Sylvian fissure. These changes suggest slower or altered brain development. The study also found that fetal brains may be most sensitive to the effects of pollution during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Veterans Embrace Natural Remedies for Chronic Pain
A recent survey by the U.S. Veterans Health Administration, published in the journal Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health, found that military veterans widely use natural products for chronic pain. Of the 52 veterans surveyed, 67 percent used prescription non-opioid medications for their chronic pain, 15 percent used opioids and 17 percent did not use prescription pain drugs. The natural products used included vitamins and minerals (94 percent), herbal or botanical supplements (60 percent) and cannabis (40 percent). One-third of the veterans replaced their prescribed pain medications with natural products.
Approximately half of the veterans were concerned about possible interactions, but only about half of those discussed their use of natural products with a healthcare provider. Nearly all veterans believed providers should discuss the use of natural products with patients to prevent harm. The study highlights a communication gap between patients and providers, with a need for better
Pesticides and Pregnancy Outcomes
Pesticides disrupt endocrine function, potentially interfering with reproductive health. A 2018 study in JAMA Internal Medicine investigated the impact of pesticide exposure on pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization and sperm injection.
The study included 325 women that completed diet assessments and underwent 541 ART cycles over 10 years. Researchers discovered that women consuming more than 2.3 servings daily of highpesticide-residue vegetables had an 18 percent lower chance of clinical pregnancy and a 26 percent lower chance of live birth compared to those eating fewer than one serving daily of the same vegetables.
Remarkably, women consuming more high-pesticide-residue vegetables had lower pregnancy and live birth chances than those eating fewer servings of any vegetables, highlighting the need to consider pesticide content in foods, not just their nutritional value, when trying to conceive.
information. Researchers recommend improving provider knowledge and patient communication to support safer and more effective pain management for veterans.
Melike
B from Pexels/CanvaPro
Zodiac Signs Are Outdated
The ancient Babylonians believed the movements of the planets and stars were omens predicting the future, prompting them to track patterns in the night sky. They established the Western zodiac signs 2,500 years ago by naming the constellation behind the sun each day from Earth’s perspective. However, the constellations no longer align as they did 25 centuries ago. For instance, 2,000 years ago, September 16 was in Virgo, but today it is in Leo.
The Earth spins like a wobbling top, causing our view of the stars’ positions to shift by one degree every 72 years. Since Babylonian times, this has resulted in a nearly 35-degree change. Our current view of the constellations today will not be seen again for 2,600 years.
The Babylonians originally identified 17 zodiac constellations but reduced the number to 12 to match the number of months in their calendar year. However, the slices of the night sky are unequal. The sun spends twice as long in front of Virgo as in front of Cancer. This change also excluded Ophiuchus, which, when combined with Scorpio, only appears in front of the sun for a week. It may be time for astrologers to reconsider the zodiac signs.
Electric Spoon Enhances Low-Sodium Foods
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that most Americans consume 1,000 milligrams more sodium daily than recommended. Excessive sodium intake can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of deaths in the United States.
To improve the flavor of low-sodium foods, Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (Kirin) of Japan debuted its new electric salt spoon at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The spoon sends a weak electric charge to the tongue, enhancing the salty and umami taste in low-sodium foods. Users can select from four
Using Artificial Intelligence To Count Wildebeest
A team led by scientists from the University of Oxford has developed a more accurate method of counting wildebeest herds crossing Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara each year. For years, population counts relied on aerial photographs of the herds and extrapolation techniques that were prone to error if herds moved between survey areas or clustered unevenly. The new approach trains artificial intelligence (AI) models to count wildebeest and applies this knowledge to satellite images taken above Tanzania and Kenya.
The traditional estimate of the wildebeest population was 1.3 million, but the new AI models estimate the population to be between approximately 325,000 and 525,000. Researchers do not believe the population has collapsed. The difference may stem from altered migration patterns due to human encroachment on migration corridors and changes in grazing areas caused by climate change. Nevertheless, accurate population data is crucial for conservation planning.
saltiness levels. Kirin’s testing showed that 93 percent of users perceived an increase in food saltiness; however, some found the spoon bulky and hard to hold.
SurkovDimitri from Getty Images/CanvaPro
John1132 from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Life Beyond Earth Is Highly Probable
Researchers from Durham University in England surveyed more than 1,000 scientists, both astrobiologists and non-astrobiologists, to assess their beliefs about the existence of basic, complex and intelligent life beyond Earth. Their findings were published in nature astronomy. Almost 87 percent of astrobiologists agreed or strongly agreed that at least basic extraterrestrial life likely exists in the universe, while less than 2 percent disagreed and 12 percent remained neutral. Similarly, more than 88 percent of other scientists concurred that other life forms exist.
These results align with mathematical reasoning. With an estimated 100 billion galaxies in the universe, each containing billions of stars, and our understanding of habitable planets and moons, the probability of no other life forms existing is less than one in a billion billion (1,000,000,000,000,000,000).
Cloud Forests Face Climate Challenges
A study in the journal Science examined the movement of plant species in Mesoamerican cloud forests, which span the mountain ranges of Mexico and Central America where warm Pacific air meets cooler Caribbean air. Despite occupying only 0.4 percent of Earth’s land, they are diverse ecosystems containing about 15 percent of all birds, mammals, amphibians and tree fern species.
Using satellite images and data from the Global Diversity Information Facility, scientists tracked plant movement in these forests. They discovered that plants have been moving up the mountains at a rate of six to nearly nine feet per year since 1979 due to rising temperatures. Scientists worry that these ecosystem changes could lead to biodiversity loss and changes in the water cycle. Without the storage and release of water by the cloud forests, downstream farms and drinking water could suffer negative impacts.
Benjamin Farren from Pexels/CanvaPro
Oskanov from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Honoring the Earth and Each Other
The Thanksgiving table offers a feast of our favorite dishes to share with loved ones, but this annual gathering can lead to food waste, increased energy use, more national travel and other unsustainable excesses.
With some planning and simple adjustments, we can make the holiday more environmentally conscious. Reducing our carbon footprint is the best way to show our gratitude to Mother Earth.
Sustainable Feast
• Assign others to bring specific dishes and remind them to use reusable containers for leftovers.
• Shop for seasonal produce and meats at nearby stores and farmers markets to minimize food travel.
• For turkey or other meats, choose pasture-raised and certified-humane options.
• For plant-based eaters, consider a savory lentil loaf, vegan bisques and satisfying baked squashes, including pumpkins stuffed with quinoa and roasted vegetables.
• Avoid packaged foods and make some things from scratch, such as quick baking-powder biscuits.
• To reduce food waste, save produce scraps such as the outer layers and ends of onions, carrot bits, celery leaves, mushroom stalks and herb stems to make vegetable broth for soups and gravies.
• Set the table with cloth napkins and reusable tableware.
• Inform guests of the recycling bin’s location.
Conscious Travel Tips
• Drive on off-peak days for less stress, quicker transit and less fuel wasted sitting in traffic. Consider taking a train or bus instead of flying or driving.
• When driving, bring reusable containers and water bottles for snacks and beverages.
Choose Meaningful and Natural
• Decorate the table with leaves and dried plants from the yard, baskets of real grapes and other fruits, or beeswax candles.
• Express gratitude to each guest around the table for joining the celebration and for the qualities that make them special.
• Volunteer at a local food pantry or community Thanksgiving meal.
Maximize Leftovers
• Freeze leftovers, including soup, stuffing and desserts for subsequent meals and snacks.
• Pack up a generous plate or two for a neighbor, single mom or friend.
The Burnout Reset
Whole-Body Recovery for the Season Ahead
by Hannah Tytus
It’s six o’clock in the evening, and the sun has already set. The body is whispering for a warm cup of tea and rest, yet the to-do list stretches on: emails and carpools, fundraisers and school practices, appointments and dinner still to be cooked. The desire for rest is overridden by our self-imposed need to get it all done. The colder season, however, brings an opportunity to shift how we see rest and productivity, inviting us to move in harmony with the cycles of nature.
“Our culture has fed us the myth that we can grow and achieve ceaselessly,” explains
Kari Leibowitz, Ph.D., a psychologist, speaker, workshop facilitator and author of How to Winter. “The idea that this growth is linear and steady, with no breaks, is a myth and a fantasy. So much of the winter woes and the burnout of the season comes from a mismatch between our natural rhythms, our expectations and the demands of the world. Winter is an invitation to slow down.”
Lost Wisdom of Seasonal Living
As with every other living being, we are intimately connected to nature’s cycles.
“We are animals, and we live on a planet. And almost every other living thing on this planet changes its behavior with the seasons,” observes Leibowitz. “Because we have electricity, artificial light and calendars, we have deluded ourselves into thinking that we can—and should—maintain the same routines and productivity levels year-round.”
This spirit of connectedness is echoed by Shamini Jain, Ph.D., adjunct professor at the University of California San Diego, founder of the Consciousness and Healing Initiative, and author of Healing Ourselves: Biofield Science and the Future of Health. “When we own that we’re part of a universe that has its ebbs and flows, we pay attention to the seasons,” she notes, adding that Indigenous medicine and wisdom have long honored natural cycles, seeking to answer the same question we ask ourselves today: “How can I show up and be most efficient in my service?”
This ancient orientation toward seasonal rhythms is not just a philosophical concept. Anthropological studies suggest that our ancestors likely slept more in the cooler months, falling asleep soon after sunset and rising before dawn. They got the most sunlight in the morning, aligning their
Hamdi Kandi from Hamdi Kandi Studio/CanvaPro
body’s cycles with temperature and light cues provided by nature. Contrast this with modern life, where we stay active well after dark, are exposed to sleep-disrupting blue light, wake with alarms and regulate our environment with thermostats that erase natural temperature shifts. By structuring our lives around modern demands, we resist nature’s rhythms. The result, says Jain, is chronic stress, fatigue and burnout.
Modern Stressors
As autumn transitions into winter and the holidays approach, many of us face greater demands to cook, shop, perform, travel or coordinate complex schedules, yet our resources of time and energy remain the same—or even ebb—as daylight hours shorten and our bodies naturally slow down and produce less vitamin D because of a decrease in sunlight exposure.
“Whenever demands exceed resources, we become stressed,” says Dr. Sharon Grossman, physician and author of The Burnout Solution. Chronic stress has a cumulative effect on our bodies, causing what is known as an allostatic overload, which, according to Yale Medicine, can lead to emotional exhaustion, cynicism, detachment, reduced creativity, brain fog, disrupted sleep, physical aches and pains, or even social withdrawal.
Improving Our Mindset
“We often think of stress as a thing that lives ‘out there’, but stress is actually an internal perception that we have. It’s not always about the circumstances themselves; it’s about what you’re telling yourself about the circumstances that creates the stress,” explains Grossman.
A 2016 study in Anxiety, Stress, & Coping examined the effects of altering our perspective on stress. Participants were encouraged to see it as a potential source of energy and resilience, rather than harmful. Those that applied this change in mindset reported better moods, enhanced cognitive performance and healthier physiological responses during a stressful task.
Try this psychological exploration: Identify limiting beliefs by journaling about the specific fears and guilt that come with saying “no” to a request for help. Next time someone asks for something, politely decline and observe the outcome. Check if expectations of conflict or hurt were unfounded. This approach challenges limiting assumptions and helps us set healthier boundaries, thereby reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
We often have countless ideas about how we should behave, and many of these beliefs hold us back. Grossman emphasizes that every “yes” adds to our demands. “If you’re going to say ‘yes’, understand why you’re saying it,” Grossman cautions. “It should serve a purpose, because our resources are limited.” In practical terms, we have to either lower the demands we accept or increase our resources, such as time or support, to meet them.
For Leibowitz, setting boundaries becomes easier when guided by values. If we want Thanksgiving to feel lighthearted and memorable, that might mean skipping elaborate dishes, accepting a less-than-perfect home and prioritizing rest so we can be present and joyful.
When a new request comes in, pause and reflect on how it aligns with personal values. Consider whether we are acting out of pressure. Release such commitments to make room for a new, better-aligned invitation.
Breathing Out the Stress
Simple breathing practices can profoundly calm the nervous system. “The point is to breathe—nice inhales, long exhales—and in letting out a long exhale, make a sigh of relief,” Jain advises, suggesting that sounds like “ooo” or “ahh” during exhalation enhance emotional release.
Just five minutes of intentional breathing can make a measurable difference. Studies have demonstrated that longer exhales stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the rest-and-digest system, while calming the fight-or-flight response. This reduces heart rate and blood pressure and signals the brain to relax.
Try this breathing exercise: Sit or recline comfortably. Inhale gently through the nose, then exhale through the mouth, allowing sound to escape—this can be a sigh, a groan or a vowel tone. With each round, allow the exhale to lengthen naturally, releasing tension.
Transformative Singing
According to Jain, “Singing, whether by yourself or in groups, helps harmonize the body’s rhythms, decreases inflammation and activates the nervous system’s rest-and-digest response.” A 2016 study by London researchers, published in ecancermedicalscience, demonstrated that just one hour of group singing reduced stress and improved mood, with saliva tests indicating lower levels of cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone) and changes in immune markers associated with resilience.
Bringing the benefits of song can be as simple as singing or humming a tune while washing dishes, showering or driving to work. Knowing the lyrics isn’t necessary; the vibrations alone create a positive resonance in the body.
Nature Therapy
Every breath we take is a dance between humans and plants. The oxygen they expel fuels us, and our exhaled carbon dioxide sustains them. This exchange is part of the deep bioelectric communication connecting us to the natural world.
“Fresh air, movement and connecting with nature are all natural antidepressants. Even a few minutes outside can be a powerful way to shift your experience,” says Leibowitz. A 2016 review of 52 Japanese studies found that spending time in nature measurably relaxes the body. Being around forests, plants or green spaces calms the nervous system, improves brain function, balances hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Try this outdoor palliative: Find a patch of earth and stand barefoot. With eyes closed, imagine releasing the day’s energies down into the ground. After a few breaths, visualize energy flowing back up, reinvigorating the body.
Calming Movement
Mind-body-spirit practices offer powerful ways to find inner serenity. “They are effective in harmonizing the nervous system,
reducing inflammation and opening our connection with heaven and Earth,” asserts Jain. Tai chi and qigong, which blend flowing movements with focused attention, breath and relaxation, have been shown in studies to pacify the overactive sympathetic nervous system and promote deep relaxation. Yoga offers similar effects. A 2020 review of 12 studies with nearly 675 healthy adults found consistent reductions in perceived stress, confirming yoga’s power to ease everyday tension.
Practicing these modalities under the guidance of a professional helps reduce risk of injury. Look for a tai chi, qigong or gentle yoga class in the community. Many studios offer a free first class or sessions in a local park.
Rest as Wisdom
In a culture that glorifies hustle, reclaiming rest is an act of healing. Jain asserts, “We can move through the winter of our mind and body, allowing it to deeply rest so that when spring comes, we can move forward with more energy—for the right things, as opposed to everything.” Nature offers a model for this wisdom. Although the natural world seems to be still in winter, vital work occurs beneath the surface. Just as fruit trees need a cold dormancy period to bloom again, we also require periods of quiet renewal. Our cycles of stillness are as essential to growth, creativity and productivity as our cycles of action.
Rest is more than sleep; it is a way of tuning in. “When we slow down, it’s not just about regeneration,” explains Jain. “It’s about listening to the body’s wisdom, slowing down enough to access deeper intuitions and guidance about our next steps.” Our cycles of rest serve as a teacher. By slowing down, we gain the wisdom, focus and resilience to fully embrace a life renewed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Alina Matveycheva from
Navigating Life’s Transitions
by Marlaina Donato
As autumn’s wick burns low and sunsets unfurl their glory at an earlier hour, November emerges as a time of profound spiritual healing when we can learn how to navigate life’s transitions. Whether we are challenged by the chill of cooler temperatures, battling the grip of seasonal affective disorder or enduring the unpredictable waves of inner change, this sometimes-dim threshold into winter presents an opportunity for us to illuminate our own paths.
We might have to work a little harder to achieve our comfort, but simple pleasures like unplugging from our devices every afternoon to savor a hot cup of tea or a mug of frothy hot chocolate can help us find a lovely groove. Stocking up on cozy slipper socks, making savory stews in the slow cooker and flopping into a favorite
well-worn chair with an inviting book are easy ways to guide our nervous system toward a slower rhythm.
As trees, plants and animals prepare for winter, we too can heed nature’s cue, despite our constant, on-the-go tendencies. The Persian poet Hafiz wrote, “I felt in need of a great pilgrimage, so I sat still for three days.” This reminds us that seeking quietude can be a gateway to realizing that we already possess what we truly need.
Tending to our own hearth—both literally and metaphorically—can be equally as enriching as traveling the world. Home is not just a physical structure that surrounds us, but also a rich and fulfilling realm within us. It’s a sacred place where we can find soul nourishment as the seasons change outside our door.
Here are a few gentle nudges for the last month of autumn:
• Indulge in specialty teas and coffees.
• Enjoy a candlelit breakfast or dinner.
• Burn a cinnamon stick as a natural incense.
• Take a moment to observe twilight and savor the tranquility.
• Luxuriate in soft blankets and fluffy pillows.
• Write a snail-mail letter on beautiful paper to a special someone.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Natural Killer Cells in Treating Chronic Illness
by John D. Young, MD
Over the last 25–30 years, scientists have been studying umbilical cord blood and its many products, including different cell lines. One of the most promising among these are Natural Killer (NK) cells.
All cells have a lifespan. They divide a certain number of times and then shut down—a process known as apoptosis, or programmed cell death. Problems occur when this natural process fails. Instead of dying, cells continue dividing, but the new cells are poorly formed, dysfunctional, and release toxic substances that trigger widespread inflammation. This process is called cellular senescence.
Senescence and Human Health
Senescence is linked to many chronic diseases and age-related conditions. According to Strehler’s mortality model, there are three major causes of death:
1. Immature mortality – early death from disease, accidents, or other causes.
2. Residual mortality – premature adult death due to accidents, infections, or suicide.
3. Senescent mortality – deaths tied to chronic diseases and aging conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and genetic disorders.
There is growing evidence that senescence also contributes to autoimmune diseases. It has been associated with autism, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. For example, in Parkinson’s, cells in the substantia nigra stop producing dopamine and instead produce inflammatory cells. In Alzheimer’s, senescence in the hippocampus prevents repair and regeneration of neurons. Interestingly, studies suggest that the problem may not be amyloid or tau protein deposits—as once thought—but the persistence of senescent cells. In fact, when senescent cells in the brain were targeted, function improved even though amyloid and tau deposits remained.
Natural Killer Cells and Cancer
Research at UCLA and other institutions has explored NK cells as a treatment for cancer recurrence. For example, ovarian cancer has a recurrence rate of 60–80%, largely due to senescent cells. NK cells, however, are anti-senescent and directly attack abnormal cells. Most cancer cells lack defenses against NK cells, making them particularly vulnerable. Unlike chemotherapy, NK cells are naturally produced by the body and therefore do not carry the toxic side effects—such as neuropathy, cardiac damage, or kidney failure—that standard treatments often cause.
At MD Anderson Cancer Center, 37 patients with stage 3 or 4 cancers—including ovarian, pancreatic, lymphoma, breast, and colon cancers—were treated with NK cells after being told there
was little to no hope. Remarkably, 94% of these patients were still alive after treatment, and the three-year survival rate reached 70%, an outcome unmatched by most current therapies.
Another study followed 10 patients with advanced cancers (including breast, colon, liver, pancreatic, ovarian, and myeloma). After three years, all were still alive except for one liver cancer patient. These results have encouraged more cancer institutes to explore NK cell therapy.
Beyond Cancer: Potential for Other Diseases
The potential of NK cells may extend far beyond oncology. Researchers are beginning to investigate whether NK cells can help with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, and Crohn’s disease. Even short treatments could prove beneficial.
There are also promising results in pulmonary fibrosis, heart failure, and ALS—conditions with few effective treatment options.
On a personal note, Dr. John D. Young tried NK cells for both an arthritic finger and thumb. Within a week, the pain was almost completely gone, and the joint deformity improved. Another patient with severe knee degeneration reported complete relief
of pain in just one week. These firsthand clinical observations reinforce the growing body of evidence supporting NK cells as a powerful, natural therapeutic option.
In addition to NK cell therapy, researchers are also studying natural compounds for their ability to block senescence. Together, these approaches represent an exciting frontier in the biochemistry of disease treatment—offering powerful results without the debilitating side effects of many conventional therapies.
John D. Young, MD, has been treating patients at Young Foundational Health Center since he opened the private practice in 2005. The author of Beyond Treatment and creator of Young Health Products, Dr. Young’s approach is “Treat the cell, heal the body.” Sought after because of his out-of-the-box thinking in conjunction with integrative and natural medicine, Dr. Young is an innovator and always offers his patients cutting edge treatments.
Young Foundational Health Center is located at 7241 Bryan Dairy Rd., Largo. To schedule an appointment, call 727-545-4600. Most major medical insurances accepted. For more information, visit YoungFoundationalHealth.com. See ad below.
Patrick Hanaway
on The Healer’s Journey
by Sandra Yeyati
Patrick Hanaway is a functional medicine family physician and educator. For more than 25 years, he has maintained a clinical practice with his wife, Dr. Lisa Lichtig, in Western North Carolina. He is board-certified in family
medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Practice, as well as the American College of Nutrition.
After serving as chief medical officer at Genova Diagnostics for 10 years, Hanaway
became the chief medical education officer at The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) in 2013, where he oversaw the development and implementation of IFM programs worldwide. In 2014, Hanaway helped establish the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, where he was the founding medical director and later research director.
Hanaway has been initiated as a Mara’akame (traditional healer) by the Huichol people of the Sierra Madres, in Mexico. He holds community fires, leads ceremonies and offers traditional healing sessions around the fire. He serves as the board chair of the Blue Deer Center, in the Catskill Mountains of New York.
One of Hanaway’s newest roles is as chief medical officer of KnoWEwell, P.B.C., a digital community that bridges the knowledge, access and insurance gaps to address the root causes of chronic disease, as well as the owner of the Natural Awakenings magazine franchise system.
How did you become interested in shamanism?
In 1999, I was introduced to a teacher working with the Huichol people in the western Sierra Madres, in Mexico. I was invited on a vision quest and later on pilgrimages to their sacred places, asking for help on my journey. In 2009, I was initiated as a traditional healer by the Huichol elders.
Courtesy Patrick Hanaway
Since that time, I have been bringing more of my focus on helping individuals find balance by connecting to the whole world, to all the beings—human and non-humans—who are present, and listening and accepting the help we get from them.
For me, the exclamation point came when I was diagnosed with stage 4 laryngeal cancer in 2018. As I integrated radiation, chemotherapy, diet and nutrition to optimize my health and wellbeing, I also listened to the cancer and what it was telling me about transformation and being able to ask for help and receiving help not only from my community and my family, but also from all the beings and gods in the world. It made a huge difference.
How do the insights appear in your shamanic practice?
It’s difficult to describe, but I’ll make an attempt. When I am really opening myself up to listening and I’m with a tree, I find that there’s not really a big difference between the tree and me. We’re all part of the same world. There’s almost a merging and knowing that all the beings on this planet are connected with each other. Feeling that connection changes the way I relate to the world and—this is the tricky part—it changes the way in which the world relates to me, because I’m deepening relationships.
Are you talking about relationships not just with people but with all beings, all of nature and all of everything?
Yes, every being. That’s exactly right. They’re not things. Iain McGilchrist, the renowned neuropsychiatrist and author of The Matter With Things, says that if we make every aspect of the world a thing, we make it an object, and that means we’re actually apprehending them and using them as a resource for our
advantage as human beings, rather than comprehending them to develop a relationship. If we’re working to be in relationship and recognize them as persons, non-human persons that have rights, that changes the nature of how we move in the world.
It’s a humbling experience for the Western mind, isn’t it?
Very much so. During my cancer journey, one of the things that I found that made the biggest difference for me was spending time in nature. My stress levels decreased, and my heart rate variability improved significantly when I spent time in nature. It also helped me in the process of being able to listen to the cancer and learn what the cancer was trying to teach me. Cancer was there because something in my life was out of balance, and I needed to learn how to bring the right balance back to the system. I’m still working on that.
How did you cope with the emotions of your cancer journey?
Within the uncertainty, there was an aliveness, like, wow, anything is possible. I have no idea what’s going to happen in the world or with my life and my body, and yet the uncertainty made me feel really vibrantly alive. Even though I remember that whole experience vividly, there are times now when I forget, and I need to remember my connection to all of life. I need to remember gratitude. I need to remember the aliveness in uncertainty and allow myself to connect to life through curiosity and wonder and awe.
Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL. com/HanawayWW2 or scan the QR code.
Balancing Act
Blood Sugar Stability for Better Health and Mood
by Marlaina Donato
Approximately 34 to 36 million people in the United States live with Type 2 diabetes, yet many cases go undiagnosed. Additionally, about 88 million individuals have prediabetes, a reversible condition marked by higher blood sugar levels that have not yet reached diabetic status. Glucose stability is crucial for everyone and can be the root cause of symptoms like low energy (especially in the afternoon), mood swings, increased belly fat, food cravings, brain fog, hormonal imbalances and loss of libido.
Fluctuating blood sugar levels affect all of us, especially after high-carb meals or
skipping meals. Our diet directly influences our metabolic processes. By choosing nutrient-dense foods, replacing high-sugar and high-carbohydrate snacks with healthier options and timing meals wisely, we can achieve balance. Incorporating blood sugar-stabilizing spices and herbs into daily meals can also have a positive impact.
Blood Sugar Basics
“Because glucose is a crucial fuel of the brain and body, there are many backup systems and ways to create glucose,” explains Iginio Stoppa, a naturopathic doctor at Sonoran University of Health Sciences, in Tempe, Arizona. “The absorption
of glucose from our food, the production of glucose mainly from the liver and the breakdown of the storage form of glucose called glycogen is what contributes to what we see as blood sugar.” Stoppa also notes that we may notice when our blood sugar is off. Low blood sugar, for example, is often felt through symptoms like anxiety, weakness, tingling, sweating and palpitations.
“Everyone experiences natural rises and dips throughout the day. Skipping meals, leaning on caffeine for energy, eating a lot of refined carbohydrates or grabbing quick, processed snacks can all cause sharp spikes, followed by sudden crashes,” says
Jennifer Ribaudo, a clinical herbalist, educator and owner of Desert Moon Botanicals, in Gilbert, Arizona.
It is advisable to avoid high carbohydrate and sugary foods, especially in the morning or before bed. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates like lentils, beans, sweet potatoes and oats to provide essential macronutrients and prevent glucose spikes. Sonoran University recommends eating certain foods in a specific order, such as eggs or avocado before bread and roasted vegetables with olive oil before pasta, to manage glucose levels.
Eating and Snacking To Thrive
Jacqui Garrison, a San Diego-based health coach, suggests eating most calories before dinner and having an earlier, lighter evening meal to reduce overnight blood sugar spikes that can negatively affect sleep quality. She recommends 30 to 40 grams of clean protein per meal; if animal protein is included, five ounces or the size of a loose fist is ideal. Aim for two servings of leafy greens, colorful veggies or whole fruit per meal, equivalent to half the plate or two open hands. Add one to two thumb-sized portions of healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil or nuts to complete the meal.
For snacks, Garrison suggests a hardboiled egg or hummus with a handful of carrots, a cup of edamame in the pod or nitrite-free turkey slices in the afternoon. For an evening boost, she recommends “something light and protein-forward like half a cup of cottage cheese with cinnamon and berries.”
Stoppa supports high-quality protein and naturally low-glycemic index foods like wild blueberries, blackberries and chickpeas, which provide polyphenols and saponins that slow glucose absorption.
Herbal Help
Ribaudo emphasizes that blood sugar-supportive herbs can smooth out
fluctuations. “Using herbs for blood sugar balance doesn’t have to be complicated. A little cinnamon can be stirred into oatmeal, blended into a smoothie or sprinkled into roasted vegetables or beans. Fenugreek seeds work beautifully in soups, curries and lentil dishes, while moringa leaf powder blends smoothly into salad dressings, sauces or soups.”
Ribaudo also recommends Gymnema sylvestre tincture for pancreatic support
and long-term glucose balance, making sugary foods less tempting. Stress-reducing holy basil (tulsi) tea is beneficial during afternoon slumps. She stresses the importance of consulting a professional, especially for those on blood sugar-lowering medications or prone to hypoglycemic dips, as effects can accumulate.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
ASIAN SALMON POWER BOWL
This delicious, nutrient-dense meal is packed with healthy fats, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
4 oz salmon
½ cup whole grain brown rice
½ cup edamame
½ cup carrots, shredded
½ cup cabbage or bok choy, shredded
½ Tbsp sesame seeds
1 Tbsp coconut liquid aminos
1 Tbsp rice vinegar
1 Tbsp scallions, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Cook the rice according to package instructions. Steam and shell the edamame. Sauté the cabbage or bok choy, if using. Grill the salmon and season to taste.
Layer cooked rice, edamame, carrot and cabbage or bok choy in a bowl. Add salmon.
Whisk coconut aminos and rice vinegar together then pour over the contents of the bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Top with scallions and cilantro.
Recipe courtesy of Jacqui Garrison.
OVERNIGHT CINNAMON DATE OATS
This is a perfect late-autumn breakfast or snack with protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
½ cup organic rolled oats
1 Tbsp ground flaxseeds
¼ cup organic, unsweetened peanut, almond or sunflower butter
1 to 2 Medjool dates, finely chopped
¾ cup unsweetened coconut, almond or soy milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp powdered Ceylon cinnamon
Place all ingredients in a bowl or Mason jar and stir well. Store overnight in the refrigerator for cold oats or on the counter for room-temperature oats in the morning.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
GenAI/CanvaPro
VELVETY SWEET POTATO BISQUE
YIELD: 2 TO 3 SERVINGS
5 medium-sized, organic sweet potatoes
3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1 13.5-oz can unsweetened Thai coconut milk, well-stirred before use
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp regular or vegan ghee
1 to 2 tsp Grade-A maple syrup or increase coconut sugar, below
1 tsp coconut sugar (2 to 3 tsp if omitting maple syrup)
¼ tsp powdered cinnamon
¼ tsp powdered ginger
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
OPTIONAL TOPPING
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Smoked salt, to taste
Coconut sugar, a sprinkle to taste
½ tsp curry powder
½ cup raw pumpkin seeds
Chop sweet potatoes into 2-inch chunks and add to a mediumsize pot; cover with broth. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, approximately 15 minutes.
Place the cooked sweet potatoes, hot broth, half a can of coconut milk and all other ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour the sweet potato bisque into bowls until half full. Spoon a tablespoon of coconut milk in a swirling pattern into the soup. Serve immediately.
For the optional pumpkin seed topping, heat olive oil in a pan with the smoked salt, coconut sugar and curry powder. Add pumpkin seeds to the hot pan and toss around until they are browned but not burned. Remove from heat and sprinkle a tablespoon or more of the toasted seeds on top of the sweet potato bisque.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
GenAI/CanvaPro
Indoor Oasis
How Houseplants Transform the Winter Blues
by Maya Whitman
As winter draws near and we seek refuge indoors, many of us notice a dip in physical energy and emotional well-being. Houseplants offer more than aesthetic appeal in our homes and workplaces; they rebalance our indoor environments and foster inner calm. Whether it’s a lush philodendron cascading from a bookcase or an elegant orchid on a coffee table, plants infuse life into any space.
With a variety of colors, sizes and maintenance levels, a green thumb isn’t required to create inviting, mood-lifting corners of greenery. Caring for plants can be an enjoyable, calming and uplifting experience,
but simply being around them enhances our well-being. Research indicates that spending time with houseplants lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol, reduces worry and improves post-surgical outcomes in hospital patients.
Indoor plants transform the ambience wherever they are placed. “Their presence alone lifts mood. My home feels softer, calmer and more alive when plants are around me in winter. Even one thriving plant in your space can shift the energy,” says Dana Carpenter, a horticultural advisor and founder of the Fancy Plants Club, an online resource for successful houseplant management.
Practical Beauty
Plants add moisture to dry indoor air, benefiting skin and respiratory health during the cold season. Varieties with broad, large leaves have a greater humidifying effect. For lush appeal and moisturizing benefits, choose dracaena, ficus benjamina, philodendron, peace lily, areca and bamboo palms. A 2005 study presented to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests that English ivy is ideal for allergy sufferers because of its potential to reduce airborne mold spores.
“Plants are sensory by nature and stimulate the senses through touch, sight, sound, smell and taste,” says Alicia Green, a horticulturist and coordinator of Buehler Enabling Garden at the Chicago Botanic Garden. “Tending to a plant also subtly promotes a sense of responsibility and accountability that can contribute to emotional grounding.”
Carpenter agrees, stating, “When I am watering, pruning or just checking on my plants, my senses are engaged as I notice the texture of the leaves, the smell of soil, even the sound of water trickling. Caring for my plants offers a natural break in the rhythm of my day.”
A Refuge From the Winter Blues
Plants provide solace for those that find the colder months challenging, particularly individuals with seasonal affective disorder. “In the winter, when the light
dimaberlinphotos/CanvaPro
feels scarce and the days drag, even one corner filled with a few thriving plants, a cozy chair and maybe a grow light disguised as decor can change the energy of a room,” Carpenter reflects. “Just sitting near your green zone with tea in the morning turns it into a place you look forward to, especially during gray months.”
Plants add comfort, warmth and support in spaces where we practice mindful meditation, prayer or yoga. Beautiful blooms beside photographs of loved ones celebrate happy memories. A group of plants in varying shades can transform a cozy reading nook, enliven a kitchen corner, add vibrance to a kids’ playroom or lend an exotic touch to a sunny bathroom.
Choosing the right plants that fit our individual lifestyles makes it easy to follow our bliss. “Snake plant tolerates very low light and can be placed in almost any room with a window. It also has very low watering requirements, thus making it a very lowmaintenance houseplant,” advises Green. “Pothos and peace lily can also be placed away from a window, as they are very tolerant of low light.”
Green also recommends using flowering plants such as amaryllis bulbs during winter months to add color to a room, and she encourages novice indoor gardeners to consider succulents and phalaenopsis orchids for their beauty and low-water requirements. Festive-blooming cyclamen is also a favorite for its tendency to thrive in autumn and winter.
According to Carpenter, all plants are joyful additions to the home, including fragrant herbs on a windowsill. “Brushing your hand across rosemary releases that fresh, grounding scent, which feels especially comforting when the world outside is cold and bare.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Tamara
Chuchkova from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Start Strong
Morning Rituals for Energized Kids
by Christina Connors
Mornings set the tone for a child’s entire day. When rushed or chaotic, they can cause stress, fatigue and difficulty focusing in school. By using simple, intentional routines, mornings can become a source of grounding, positivity and energy, helping kids feel calm, nourished and mentally prepared for the day ahead.
The Science Behind Structured Mornings
Research confirms what many parents intuitively know: Consistent routines significantly impact a child’s development. “Morning routines create rhythm and predictability, which lower stress and help kids feel safe,” says Dr. Joel
Warsh, an integrative pediatrician in Los Angeles. “A calm start sets the tone for better focus, mood and energy throughout the school day.”
A 2024 systematic review published in the Journal of Family Theory & Review found that childhood routines are linked to improved cognitive ability, self-regulatory and executive function skills, enhanced social and emotional skills, and better academic outcomes.
Building a Nutritional Foundation
The morning meal is vital for sustaining vitality and focus throughout the school day. To stabilize blood sugar and support
steady energy, Warsh recommends combining protein, healthy fats and fiber, such as eggs with avocado, chia pudding with berries or a smoothie with spinach and nut butter. This nutritional approach aligns with research showing that proper breakfast consumption directly impacts classroom behavior and academic performance, with students demonstrating improved attention and participation when well-nourished.
The Movement Connection Incorporating gentle movement into morning routines achieves more than physical activity. “Short bursts of movement like stretching, yoga or dancing help release nervous energy and signal to the body that it’s time to focus. They also regulate mood and attention,” notes Warsh.
But too much too quickly may not have the desired effect. “Movement will get the blood moving and support in transitioning. But I wouldn’t go from no movement to awake to ‘let’s hustle’.
The shift cognitively can become overwhelming,” advises Dr. Isaura González, a clinical psychologist and educator. She suggests a gradual approach, using an alarm with lighting options that slowly transition from dark to bright, and soothing music that supports the nervous system, rather than overstimulating it.
The Sleep-to-Wake Connection
Successful mornings begin the night before. “Good sleep hygiene is the foundation for calm mornings,” emphasizes Warsh. “When kids sleep enough, their mood, focus and cooperation improve dramatically. Set out clothes, prep breakfast, pack lunches and keep backpacks by the door. These small steps prevent chaos and free up space for connection in the morning.”
Organizing a child’s activities takes this preparation further. “Getting a calendar with the month’s school activities is crucial. You don’t want to miss the green T-shirt day, and then we have a meltdown,” says González. She suggests placing a calendar in a common area such as on the refrigerator so children can independently reference upcoming events.
Fostering Teamwork and Joy
Sustainable morning routines thrive on cooperation, rather than forced compliance. “Add playfulness and use music, countdowns or games to get tasks done,” recommends Warsh. “Kids are more engaged when mornings feel fun, rather than rushed.”
Involve children in routine creation. “Empowerment is the long game. By doing this, you are scaffolding the behavior, letting them do with your support,” adds González. “Children will often surprise even the most involved parent when you include them in asking for their ideas. As they grow, they will need less and less support, and that’s okay because they will always need you.”
Age-Appropriate Implementation
When developing a routine, ensure that it adapts to the child’s age and developmental stage. Warsh offers a simple template: “Wake up, open blinds for morning sun, make the bed, brush teeth, get dressed and eat a nourishing breakfast. End with a hug as you head out the door.”
Creating Connection, Not Conflict
Both experts agree that successful morning routines require patience and creativity, but the investment pays off in a child’s daily energy, mood and school readiness. With a little effort, families can transform their mornings from sources of stress into launching pads for successful, joyful days.
Christina Connors is a writer, keynote singer and head of music and SEL integration for the Kind Mind Education Program. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
Tired but Wired
Rebalancing the Cortisol-Sleep Cycle
by Hannah Tytus
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, plays several important roles in human physiology. Produced by the adrenal glands, this multifunctional messenger operates on a 24-hour clock, peaking in the moments just before waking from sleep in the morning, slowly tapering off throughout the day and returning to low levels at night to support rest.
When in balance, cortisol helps regulate inflammation, blood pressure and blood glucose, allowing the body to adapt to life’s changing demands. This rhythm is intimately connected to the circadian rhythm, or sleep-wake cycle. But when sleep is irregular or stress becomes chronic, cortisol levels can fall out of sync—too high at night, too low in the morning or fluctuating unpredictably.
“Stress is neither good nor bad. It gets us out of bed in the morning. Cortisol is part of that natural rhythm,” says Dr. Sharon Grossman, a burnout recovery strategist and author of The Burnout Solution. “When cortisol becomes imbalanced, it can affect memory, sleep and even immune function. The key is to find the sweet spot.”
Shamini Jain, Ph.D., an adjunct professor at the University of California San Diego, founder and president of the Consciousness and Healing Initiative, and author of Healing Ourselves: Biofield Science and the Future of Health, explains, “If we have dysregulated cortisol rhythms because we don’t have regular sleep, or we have too much stress and we’re not handling the origins of the stress, then we could create chronic inflammation in the body, and we could have mental health issues as a result.”
Restoring Evening Serenity and Morning Clarity
The seasons affect our circadian rhythm. The sleep-wake cycle becomes more stable in autumn and winter, with longer time spent in bed, slightly more total sleep time and higher daytime activity compared to warmer months. While cooler weather often encourages more rest, it can also intensify feelings of sluggishness if cortisol and sleep cycles are not aligned. Jain recommends these simple practices that help keep cortisol and circadian rhythm in balance, even as the seasons change.
• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking at the same times each day helps the body reset. Ayurvedic wisdom, the ancient science of life originating in India, recommends being asleep before 10 p.m. and rising before 6 a.m. to align with the body’s natural cycles.
• Create wind-down rituals. Just as children benefit from bedtime routines, adults can cue the body for rest through calming activities like reading, journaling or reflecting on the day’s positive aspects.
• Establish bedroom boundaries. Reserve the bedroom for sleep and intimacy and practice a digital detox in the evening to reduce stimulation. Avoiding blue light from screens before bed allows melatonin, a sleep hormone, to rise naturally. “But it’s not just about the light,” Jain points out. “It’s about the activation of the mind. Consider a book instead.”
• Add simple relaxation practices. A warm foot soak or shower before bed, deep breathing exercises or restorative yoga asanas like waterfall pose can prepare the body for rest.
• Curb caffeine. Limiting caffeine in general, and particularly after noon, can help ensure a more restorative sleep.
• Start the morning well. Exposure to natural sunlight shortly after waking can reset the circadian rhythm, prompting alertness and energy.
Inviting Sleep With Natural Ingredients
Certain supplements, herbs and lifestyle swaps can help calm the nervous system and prepare the body for restorative slumber.
• Magnesium Glycinate: This highly absorbable form of magnesium is gentle on the stomach and has been shown to improve both the quality and onset of sleep.
• Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Supplementing with this inhibitory neurotransmitter may ease an overactive mind before bed.
• Beverage Swaps: Replacing late-day coffee with alternatives such as herbal tea, a mushroom-based latte or ginseng can reduce cortisol spikes that interfere with sleep.
• Herbal Allies: Adaptogens like ashwagandha help modulate cortisol levels, while calming herbs such as chamomile or passionflower promote relaxation and better sleep quality.
Incorporating these strategies can help synchronize cortisol rhythms and encourage deep, restorative sleep. As the days grow shorter and colder, honoring the body’s natural rhythm becomes even more important. Slow down, embrace rest, and work with the cycles of light and dark.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Waterfall pose
Tools for Fitness Recovery
Modalities That Prioritize the Mind-Body Connection
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
In today’s fitness landscape, recovery extends beyond rest days. Holistic therapies are revolutionizing the way we approach physical restoration by integrating mental clarity, emotional resilience and energetic balance. From ancient techniques to cutting-edge innovations, these modalities offer comprehensive support for restoring harmony to body and mind. Selecting the best modality depends on personal preference and availability. Here are some popular recovery techniques.
Sauna Therapy: Infrared and traditional saunas can reduce inflammation; improve oxidative stress; alleviate pain, stiffness
and muscle soreness; and improve perceived readiness or recovery time. In addition to its benefits for recovery, research suggests that regular sauna therapy may reduce high blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, stroke and neurocognitive diseases.
Contrast Therapy: Exposing the body to alternating hot and cold temperatures, such as sauna therapy followed by a plunge in a cold-water bath, has become a staple in many athletic and integrative wellness settings. A 2023 systemic review published in PLoS One found that contrast water therapy significantly reduces muscle soreness.
Massage Therapy: Regular massages can support athletic performance. A 2020 systemic review and meta-analysis in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine involving more than 1,000 participants in 29 studies reported that massage improves flexibility and delays muscle soreness. It also benefits emotional well-being by lowering stress and anxiety while improving mood and self-image.
Self-Myofascial Release: This technique uses foam rollers to massage the fascia— the connective tissue that wraps around muscles and organs. A 2024 review of 25 articles, conducted by researchers in Spain, found it improves flexibility and range of motion, decreases muscle soreness and enhances perceived recovery.
Chiropractic Care: This modality includes spinal manipulation, joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques to manage the health of athletes and non-athletes. By focusing on the musculoskeletal system, chiropractic adjustments promote optimal function and pain relief, while reducing muscle stress. This type of care is effective in treating common conditions, such as lower back pain, muscle strain and joint dysfunction, caused by fitness activities. Chiropractic care and spinal manipulation also support the regulation of the autonomic nervous system to ease depressive symptoms.
from Getty
Acupuncture: A pillar of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture uses fine needles to stimulate energy points along the body’s meridians, decreasing muscle soreness and tension while increasing muscle activation to prevent injury. “Acupuncture helps relieve inflammation by lowering the levels of oxidative stress in the body,” explains Ayako Mizuno, a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. “It also stimulates the nervous and endocrine systems, which can help create calming and relaxing effects that reduce stress.”
Float Therapy: Also known as sensory deprivation, flotation involves a tank filled with magnesium-rich Epsom salt water, allowing the body to float effortlessly, free from external stimulation. This results in deep physical and mental relaxation. A 2024 randomized controlled study found that multiple sessions of float therapy were well-tolerated, safe for anxious and depressed individuals, and induced positive emotional experiences in individuals with anxiety and depression.
Compression Garments: These specialized elastic garments apply consistent, firm pressure to a body area to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and support recovery. A 2017 New Zealand meta-analysis found that compression garments benefited strength recovery following exercise. A 2022 study in Scientific Reports found that compression tights worn after exercise enhanced blood flow and recovery. Another systemic review and meta-analysis in 2025 concluded that these garments reduced the decline in muscle strength after exercise-induced muscle fatigue.
These therapies support the body’s natural healing abilities while honoring the deep connections between physical health, emotional regulation and energetic alignment. Integrating one or more of them may enhance physical recovery, emotional well-being and vitality. Listen to the body’s needs and explore the modalities that resonate most.
Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.
BUBLÉ
"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
Dr. Dale Bredesen
NARRATED BY MICHAEL
The Virtual Care Revolution for Pets
Tips for Navigating Telemedicine and Teleadvice Platforms
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Virtual care, including online consultations with licensed veterinarians and wellness professionals, has become essential in modern pet health. While many pet parents are familiar with telemedicine, teleadvice is less understood. Comprehending their differences and limitations is important.
Telemedicine
The American Veterinary Medical Association defines telemedicine as patient-specific medical care delivered by licensed veterinarians with an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship, which typically requires an in-person examination before a veterinarian can legally diagnose, prescribe or treat via virtual platforms. It complements in-person care, merging professional expertise with convenience.
Through telemedicine, veterinarians can diagnose common health concerns, recommend treatments, prescribe medications where permitted by law and provide follow-up care for ongoing
conditions. Everyday issues such as skin irritations, minor allergies, digestive upsets, appetite changes and certain behavioral questions can often be addressed in a video consultation, giving pet owners reassurance and a clear plan of action. For animals with chronic conditions, virtual check-ins provide a stress-free way to monitor progress without frequent clinic visits.
Telemedicine services are most trusted and valued when delivered by a familiar veterinary provider. A 2024 randomized, controlled clinical trial in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that pet owners are highly satisfied with telemedicine conducted by their regular veterinarian and prefer video-based recheck examinations after routine procedures. These findings support earlier research in Preventive Veterinary Medicine indicating that pet owners are willing to pay for telemedicine services provided by their own veterinarian.
Teleadvice
Any consultation with non-veterinary professionals or pet health experts is considered teleadvice. It is educational, offering guidance such as encouraging annual wellness exams, promoting year-round parasite prevention or supporting better nutrition and lifestyle choices. While it can enhance a pet’s well-being, teleadvice does not involve diagnosing, prescribing or treating an animal.
Complementary teleadvice can add real value to a pet’s well-being, especially when delivered by certified professionals. Recent research in Frontiers in Veterinary Science demonstrated how video appointments improved cat parents’ understanding of their pet’s chronic mobility challenges and the application of at-home management strategies. Many pet health coaches deliver their services exclusively through online platforms. These virtual sessions can guide pet parents through dietary planning, safe exercise routines or stress reduction strategies.
Judy Bordignon of St. Petersburg shares this picture of her 12-yearold Labrador Retriever, Polaris. He is a fine boy whose favorite playtime activity is retrieving the newspaper from the front yard, always wagging his tail with joyful enthusiasm each morning.
Laura Muzal, a holistic intuitive animal practitioner and certified holistic pet health coach, offers virtual consultations focused on nutrition, lifestyle support and energy work. “Meeting with pet parents virtually allows me to understand their concerns in real time, support them from anywhere and help them create simple, practical steps they can follow at home to support their animal’s well-being,” she says.
From the pet parent perspective, online consultations can still be done with compassion while providing ample time to explain strategies and answer questions. Muzal says that pet parents describe feeling more confident and empowered to address their pet’s recurring health concerns after their virtual sessions. She also gets feedback that pet parents find their pets are calmer and more balanced with online meetings.
Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.
Making the Right Choice
With the convenience of virtual consultations comes the responsibility to stay informed. Not every professional offering advice online operates under the same legal or ethical framework. Before booking any virtual consultation, pet parents must confirm who they are speaking with and under what authority they operate. Verifying whether the provider is a licensed veterinarian or a certified pet health expert helps ensure the advice given is appropriate and trustworthy. This clarity allows pets to receive the right care from the right expert at the right time.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
FatCamera from Getty Images Signature/ CanvaPro
AndreyPopov from Getty Images
Calendar of Events
Thursday, November 6
Anatomy For The Herbalist: Respiratory - 6-8pm. Learn about the respiratory system, a fascinating network that orchestrates the vital exchange of gasses, ensuring our bodies receive the oxygen they need while efficiently expelling carbon dioxide. This captivating journey will unravel the complexities of its structures—like the lungs, trachea, and bronchi—and illuminate how they work together to sustain life, alongside an exploration of intriguing disorders that can disrupt respiratory function. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174
Friday, November 7
Magic of Menstruum: Alcohol Extraction - 6-8pm. Master the art of alcohol extractions and learn how they interact with herbs, gaining skills to confidently incorporate them into your practice. Alcohol extractions, or tinctures, are a concentrated and effective way to harness the healing benefits of herbs by soaking plant material in high-proof alcohol. You’ll also have the chance to create a personalized herbal blend and participate in a group activity, so please bring two 8-ounce jars for your creations! To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Saturday, November 8
Virtual Hypnosis Conference “Let’s Get Un-Hypnotized!” Nov. 8 & 9, 9:45am-4pm – Two days of world-class education & inspiration featuring keynote presentations, interactive sessions, expert panels, and stage hypnosis entertainment woven throughout to keep the learning fun. Day 1 Keynote speaker is Tampa Bay’s own Patricia V. Scott Ph.D., Board Certified Medical Hypnotherapist & Master Trainer. Only $55! Register: www.HypnosisEducationAssociaton.com/conferences.
Clothing-Optional Car Show and Naturalist Festival- 12pm until? Veteran’s Day weekend. All proceeds donated to Tunnel to Towers. Live band “No Strings Attached,” and BBQ. 6901 Caliente Blvd Land O Lakes, FL 34637 813-996-6008 VeteransDayCarShow.rsvpify.com.
Thursday, November 13
Ayurvedic Series: Managing Stress6-8pm. In this class, participants explore herbs and tools to manage stress and maintain balance. The session offers a roadmap for regulating the nervous system, drawing from Ayurveda, Western herbalism, neuroscience, and energy medicine to help tame the modern-day tiger. Two powerful herbs—Ashwagandha and Tulsi—are highlighted for their stress-relieving properties. In a handson activity, participants create a Tulsi oxymel to take home (bring a 4 oz jar). To register, visit TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Friday, November 14
Thyroid Wellness Series. Environmental Toxins - 6–8pm. This engaging class explores how environmental toxins impact thyroid function and offers practical ways to reduce exposure. Participants learn how thyroid imbalances affect skin, hair, and nails, and discover dietary and lifestyle strategies to support overall appearance. The session covers the benefits and potential side effects of thyroid-supportive herbs, concluding with a handson activity to create a custom herbal formulation to take home. Gain knowledge and tools for holistic thyroid wellness. To register, visit TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Sunday, November 16
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 information. On line version of Calendar of Events gratis at NATampa.com. Every sunset is an opportunity to reset. —Richie Norton
Tuesday, November 18
FREE Talk with Q&A “The Medicine in Your MIND!” 6-7pm – Meet Patricia V. Scott Ph.D., Board Certified Medical Hypnotherapist, Hypnotic Anesthesiologist, & NLP Master Practitioner. With over 33 years of experience, Patti shares practical, easy to use concepts & techniques and the science behind them with Q&A. Location: Holistic Center for Vibrant Health, 3935 Tampa Rd., #1, Oldsmar. More info: 727-943-5003 or 727-772-1966.
Wed. November 19
Health & Wellness Business Mastermind – 6pm. Join Roma Holistic Health and Brain Train Centers St. Pete for this supportive community of wellness entrepreneurs focused on growth, marketing, client retention, and accountability. Beyond business strategies, this mastermind aligns mission with daily practices, creating balance and confidence in leadership. Free. Victoria@Roma Holistic Health, 727-692-7154 or Katie@Brain Train Centers. St. Pete. 727-273-7514.
FREE Hypnosis-NLP Webinar “Gratitude for Health” – 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. 1 CEU (Hypnotist/Hypnotherapist). Register for log-in details: UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, www.UPHypnosis.com.
Thursday, November 20
An afternoon with Eddie Watkins, Jr. – 11am. Eddie will be giving his message at our Sunday Service, followed by a funfilled 1pm concert featuring his spiritually inspired tunes. He is a celebrated American bassist, vocalist, songwriter, and speaker—born in Detroit, Michigan, the cradle of the Motown sound. After years in the fast lane and a struggle with substance abuse, Eddie entered recovery and experienced a spiritual awakening that reshaped his life and art. $25 concert tickets can be purchased online at UnityNorthTampa.org. 19520 Holly Lane, Lutz, FL 33558. 813-948-4884.
TCM Diagnostic Series: The 8 Principles - 6-8pm. Learn the concepts of interior/ exterior, hot/cold, full/empty and yin/yang and practice applying them to practical situations. The 8 Principles is the basic groundwork of disharmony pattern identification in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This allows the practitioner to identify the location and nature of the disharmony, as well as establish the principle of treatment. To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Friday, December 5
Guided Medicinal Herb Walk - 10am12pm. Participants are invited to the beautiful half-acre medicinal garden for an immersive, hands-on class exploring how to identify and utilize medicinal plants growing locally. After class, attendees may purchase a variety of organically cultivated plants from the garden. Please note: this in-person event is held at the
school with no virtual option available.To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174
Sunday, December 7
Volunteers Needed “Hypnosis for Stress Relief” – 3-5pm – We are looking for a few volunteers to do on-line practice sessions for stress relief with current hypnosis students working towards Certification. Supervised by Certified Master Trainer, Patricia V. Scott PhD, UP Hypnosis Institute. Sessions are designed to give you a feel-good, relaxing experience. Contact for phone interview: 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com
Sunday, December 10
Volunteers Needed “Hypnosis for Weight Control” – 3-5pm – We are looking for a few volunteers to do on-line practice sessions for weight control with current hypnosis students working towards Certification. Supervised by Certified Master Trainer, Patricia V. Scott PhD, UP Hypnosis Institute. Sessions are designed to give you a feel-good, relaxing experience. Contact for phone interview: 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com.
Thursday, December 11
Anatomy For The Herbalist: Reproductive System - 6-8pm. Uncover the intricacies of the reproductive system, a complex network producing gametes—sperm and eggs—and governing reproduction and development. This dynamic system, featuring key structures like the ovaries, testes, uterus, and prostate, sustains life through hormonal regulation influencing many bodily functions. This exploration will delve into its structure and functions and apply insights to understand common disorders impacting reproductive health.To register visit:TraditionsHerbSchool.com/community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174
Saturday, December 13
Western Herbalism 101 - 10am - 5pm. Sat. & Sun. Whether new to herbalism or seeking toRefine existing skills with a comprehensive introduction to Western Herbalism. The class explores key topics such as bioregionalism, herbal nutrition, and holistic health while covering the uses, properties, and propagation techniques of over 30 herbs. Participants gain hands-on experience sampling each herb and crafting preparations, including tisanes and tinctures. Upon completion, they may continue their studies in the Foundations of Western Herbalism series to explore how herbs affect specific body systems.To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174
Ongoing Events
Sunday
ACIM Group Discussion Sessions - 1pm. A Course in Miracles (ACIM) is a unique spiritual self-study program designed to awaken us to our true nature as Love. Join us for discussion each week to be spiritually fed and inspired. $10 Love Offering. Unity North Tampa Spiritual Center, 19520 Holly Lane, Lutz, FL 33558. 813-948-4884.
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.
Qigong for the Heart - 6:00pm. Discover the body mechanics and alignment of each Qigong exercises plus the essential theory, behind each movement, Development healing energy to achieve inner power and balance. Receive the teaching of a qualified master like Shifu Orlando Schiaffino who has 40 years of experience in Taichi ,Qigong & internal Arts. Take advantage of our summer special, Your first month $59.99. One class $15. All levels are welcome. Fire Stone Shamanic Healing Center, 1217 Ewing St, Clearwater. FireStoneHealing.com. 727-225-3990.
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 en-
ergy levels. Space limited. $15/per class. Six Oaks Wellness, Garden Suite, 607 1st Ave. SW, Largo. RSVP: 727-250-9688.
Wednesday
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.
Qigong for Bone Density & Taichi7:15pm. Discover the body mechanics and alignment of each Qigong exercises plus the essential theory, behind each movement, Development healing energy to achieve inner power and balance. Receive the teaching of a qualified master like Shifu Orlando Schiaffino who has 40 years of experience in taichi ,qigong & internal arts. Take advantage of our summer special, Your first month $59.99. One class $15. All levels are welcome. Fire Stone Shamanic Healing Center, 1217 Ewing St, Clearwater. FireStoneHealing.com. 727-225-3990.
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.
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.
You must learn a new way to think before you can master a new way to be. —Marianne Williamson
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 Hwy, 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.
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!
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 8.
Astrology
ASTROLOGY FOR YOUR SOUL
Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer
Dunedin
248-583-1663
AlunaMichaels.com
Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. Over 25 years of experience. Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”
Coaching
NATURAL HYGIENE WELLNESS COACH & TRAINER
Joel Chudnow
Tampa Bay, In Your Home 813-585-7908
For over 36 years, wellness advocate Joel Chudnow has helped adults balance spirit, emotions, mind and body to improve their lifestyle goals. Sliding scale fees available.
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 21.
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner
9371 US 19N, Ste. 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 31.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Lisa Harris-Dalton 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org #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.
Counceling
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 31.
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.
Place your business listing here Call 727-865-9339 for more information
CARLO LITANO, DMD
Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 132 Mirror Lake Dr, Ste 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.
THERESA RODEGHERO, DMD
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.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Andreas Grossgold, MD 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org
Rebalance the body’s energy, activate natural healing, and enhance your wellness journey. Utilizing sacred geometry, the resonance chamber will envelop you with sound frequencies, light therapy, and vibration.
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 29.
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, Antiaging, Ozone Therapy, Acupuncture, PRP & Stem Cell Therapy. Out-ofNetwork 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 Hwy, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com
Integrative & holistic medicine for women & men: Natural Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging, IV Chelation, Nutritional Vitamin Therapy, Fatigue & Stress Management, Weight Loss, Yoga, Nutritional Counseling. Affiliated with St. Joseph Hospital. Most insurance accepted.
PEAKS OF HEALTH METABOLIC MEDICAL CENTER
Tracie Leonhardt, DO 1120 Belcher Rd S, Ste 2, Largo 727-826-0838
PeaksOfHealth.com
Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient. Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad, page 11.
SUCCESS BY DESIGN
9095 Belcher Rd, N, 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 33.
Lymphatic Therapy
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT, and Owner 9371 US 19N, Ste 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 31.
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.
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
Schools
Thermography
GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY
John D. Bartone MD 7901 4th St, N, Ste 316 St. Petersburg, FL 33702
727-576-0100
Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.
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.
TRADITIONS SCHOOL OF HERBAL STUDIES
2 Year Clinical Certification
6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg 727-249-1174
TraditionsHerbSchool.com
Experience natural healing with immersive herbalism classes covering medicine making, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anatomy, Physiology, Ayurvedic practices, and more. Suitable for all levels, the program offers a two-year Clinical Certification and weekly Community Classes. Grow and thrive with us. See ad, page 27.
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.
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 25.
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 8.
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.
The experience of being cared for is profound, and it nourishes the soul as much as the food does the body.
—Mariska Hargitay
SMALL BUSINESSES ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR COMMUNITY. LET US HELP YOUR BUSINESS — CONTACT US TODAY TO ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: 727.865.9339
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.
Into a Business Turn Your Passion
Own Your Own
Natural Awakenings Magazine!
Make a meaningful impact in your community by becoming the owner of a Natural Awakenings magazine. Empower others with current, valuable insights and resources to enhance their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
As a franchise owner, you’ll inspire positive change, provide readers with tools for healthier living and connect local businesses with an audience eager for transformation.
Why Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine?
n Create a Healthier Community: Be the go-to resource for wellness and personal growth in your area.
n Boost Your Income: Take control of your financial future with a proven business model.
n Enjoy a Flexible Lifestyle: Work from home while pursuing a fulfilling, dynamic career.
What We Offer:
n A proven business model with low startup costs.
n Comprehensive training and friendly, ongoing support.
n Flexible work schedule with many work-from-home opportunities.
n Access to a network of like-minded franchise owners.
n Financing Options Available.
Join a thriving network of passionate franchise owners reshaping the future of holistic health and wellness.
Call 239-206-2000 for a FREE evaluation of your community’s potential. Learn more or apply today at: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com
To apply or learn more, visit Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com.
Add Your Community to Where Natural Awakenings Is Now Publishing:
• Atlanta, GA
• Boston, MA
• Broward County, FL
• Bucks/Montgomery Counties, PA
• Central Florida/Greater Orlando, FL
• Central New Jersey
• Charlotte, NC
• Chicago, IL
• Columbia, SC
• Dallas, TX
• Daytona/Volusia/Flagler Counties, FL
• Detroit/Wayne County, MI
• Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties, CT
• Grand Traverse Region/Northern Michigan
• Greater Ann Arbor, MI
• Greater Lansing, MI
• Greater Oakland, Macomb, Livingston, Genesee, MI
• Gulf Coast, Alabama/Mississippi
• Houston, TX
• Jacksonville/St. Augustine, FL
• Lancaster/Berks, PA
• Lehigh Valley, PA
• Long Island, NY
• Milwaukee, WI
• Monmouth/Ocean Counties, NJ
• Naples/Fort Myers, FL
• New York City, NY
• North Central New Jersey
• North New Jersey
• Northwest Florida
• Palm Beach, FL
• Philadelphia, PA
• Rhode Island
• Richmond, VA
• Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto Counties, FL
