Create a Life Worth Living New Groups are Forming at DBT
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a psychotherapy that is based primarily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that also utilizes other modalities to help clients, families, couples and groups cope more effectively with intense emotions. DBT focuses on helping people accept the reality of their lives and their behaviors. The main goal of a DBT therapist is to create balance with acceptance and positive change.
Who Can Be Helped?
DBT is helpful for both adults and adolescents. It is especially effective for people who have difficulty managing and regulating their strong emotions. It can also help with issues of:
How does DBT help?
DBT utilizes individual and group therapy (as well as crisis phone coaching) to provide the following set of skills for families and individuals to change their lives by changing the chain of events. We teach new ways to behave, think and respond.
DBT Skills include the four modules: Interpersonal Effectiveness Emotion Regulation • Mindfulness Distress Tolerance
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• Detoxification and Healing
• Antioxidants
• Health
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“Opening up does not make you weak; it makes you human. It’s okay to let others in.” ~ Ryan Reynolds
This month our theme is “Finding Your Tribe” and the importance of building community relationships in-person. Over the years my tribe has included fellow farmer market vendors, knitting and textile crafters, choir members, book club enthusiasts—and now I have added my local dog training group! I have a 10-month old SWD (Spanish Water Dog) puppy who loves playful socialization. Our weekly gathering with other canine owners is a highlight on my happy calendar.
What types are in your tribe? Within these pages you will find many tips for healthy social expansion. Author Thais Harris shares how to overcome loneliness especially for the younger generations. Generation Zs (born mid 1990s and early 2010s) are affected by relying too much on digital platforms. See pp 24-25. I believe real friends are best found face-to-face, and our big hugs spread joy!
Looking for a healthier way of eating? Coined by National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner, the term “Blue Zones” is bestowed upon intriguing corners of the world where people reach their ninth decade and beyond without suffering from chronic illness and disease. (See how on pp 20-23.)
Happy Summertime to you all!
Margaret Mary Jones PUBLISHER
thanks you
Claudia Schwarz as Guest Speaker at Soul Adventure Seminar
Eckankar will present the 2024 Florida ECK Soul Adventure Seminar on August 9, 10, 11. This spiritually-focused event will be open to the public with complimentary admittance for those new to Eckankar.
Guest Speaker Claudia Schwarz is a former CEO and Hotelier in the Dominican Republic. She moved from Germany to the Caribbean when she was 23 years old, learning many life lessons in her journey. Claudia has been a passionate student of Eckankar for 32 years and is currently serving as the Regional ECK Spiritual Aide for 9 islands in the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. Her great love is to inspire and share spiritual insights and divine wisdom with those who cross her path and are awakening to the Call of Soul.
The weekend will feature speakers, informal discussions, workshops, and more. Attend one or all sessions as you choose. Topics to enhance your own spiritual journey will include dreams, past lives, Soul Travel, and spiritual awakening. A variety of books will be available for purchase.
This seminar is presented by Florida Satsang Society, Inc., a Chartered Affiliate of Eckankar. Location: Orlando Marriott Lake Mary, 1501 International Parkway, Lake Mary, 32746. For more info: www.eck-florida.org or call 386-684-0312.
Dr. Colleen Galvin Joins Family Integrative Medicine
Family Integrative Medicine, one of Central Florida’s leading regenerative medicine clinics, welcomes Dr. Colleen Galvin. As a board-certified physician associate, naturopathic physician and certified acupuncturist with a doctorate in Oriental medicine, Dr. Galvin has practiced in South Florida, California, China and Thailand for the past three decades, while consulting with patients and practitioners in China, Australia, Mexico, Portugal, Spain and beyond.
Co-founder of Family Integrative Medicine, Eddie Rivera shares “Dr. Galvin brings decades of experience in Western medicine, along with an equally deep background in acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine. As Central Florida patients continue to embrace our commitment to non-surgical treatment options for chronic pain relief, her unique skillset will truly provide the best of East meets West.”
Family Integrative Medicine specializes in regenerative medicine, harnessing the power of the body’s innate stem cells with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to help augment the body’s ability to heal itself, and other non-surgical treatment options for long-term illnesses and chronic conditions, including chiropractic care and physical therapy.
Its holistic approach integrates regenerative treatments with other services to address the root causes, not just treat surface-level symptoms. They now also offer injectables, fillers and other aesthetic medicine treatments, along with hormone balancing therapies and sexual wellness treatments.
To learn more about Family Integrative Medicine, call 407-751-2192, email care@ familyintegrativemedicine.com or visit FamilyIntegrativeMedicine.com
Register Today for Discount to
Wise Traditions Annual Conference
In its 24th year, the Wise Traditions Annual Conference attracts attendees from across the U.S. and even from other countries. Some return each year to participate in its high-energy, intellectually-satisfying, family-reunion type spirit. The common denominator for attendees is a thirst for learning from carefully-chosen speakers and a hunger to spend time discussing interesting topics and enjoying specially-prepared meals with like-minded people.
Based on the research of nutrition pioneer, Dr. Weston Price, The Weston A. Price Foundation is a membersupported organization dedicated to restoring nutrient-dense foods to the table through education. With 15,000 members, it connects local farms with health-conscious consumers.
Its annual conference will be in Orlando October 25-27, with 1,000 attendees, 40 speakers and 70 exhibits plus delicious farm-to-table meals. Reasonable rates which include conference meals and special one-, two- or three- day passes plus reduced rates for 20 and younger.
This is a conference that nourishes you in every way: enjoy nutritious food, learn healing wisdom, meet new friends, be inspired. Visit www. wisetraditions.org for info and to register. Early bird pricing is available through 8/31/24! See ad, pg 19.
The Environmentally Friendly Workplace
Agreener work environment reduces costs, optimizes building operations, saves energy and water, reduces waste and improves employee morale. A study by Brookfield Properties, a real estate developer, found that 93 percent of those working in an eco-friendly office feel happier. Here are some sustainable workplace measures.
• Conserve electricity. Install motionactivated light switches, and turn off computers during off-hours. Use a smart thermostat to schedule efficient temperature settings throughout the workday and on weekends and holidays. Strategically position window blinds to regulate room temperature. Switch to LED lightbulbs, which emit very little heat, use 75 percent less energy and last three to five times longer than incandescent bulbs.
• Travel less. Reduce the company’s carbon footprint and business travel expenses by employing video conferencing.
• Embrace renewable energy. Adopt solar panels and wind energy. Where available, choose an electric company that uses renewable energy sources instead of coal or natural gas.
• Recycle. Clearly label recycling bins in kitchens and common areas; post signs listing items that can be recycled. Donate or recycle old office furniture, computers and other electronics. Participate in recycling programs for printer cartridges and batteries.
• Go paperless. The average U.S. office worker prints about 31 pages a day, contributing to 21 million tons of paper waste by businesses annually. Replace paper and ink with digital solutions.
• Decorate with plants. Live greenery beautifies workspaces, lowers stress and anxiety, boosts oxygen levels and reduces indoor air pollutants.
• Promote a sustainable kitchen. Use reusable mugs and kitchenware or offer compostable options. Keep reusable takeout containers for office leftovers. Replace paper towels with washable towels, compostable sponges, scrub brushes and cloth napkins. Keep a hamper close by and launder as needed.
• Provide a water station. Plastic water bottles are packing landfills and polluting waterways. Install a filtered-water dispenser and encourage office workers to employ reusable cups and bottles.
• Use green cleaning products. Eco-friendly products are less toxic and produce less waste. Choose bar soap and refillable, sustainable cleaning solutions.
• Ditch the plastic pods. A coffee pod machine produces plastic waste with each cup. Use a coffee pot or opt for recyclable pods and a dedicated recycling bin nearby.
• Plan purchases. E-commerce is convenient but can contribute to packaging waste and carbon emissions. Purchase office supplies from sustainable suppliers; buy products with low lifecycle environmental impacts; order in bulk; and avoid small, last-minute orders.
Teona Swift from Pexels/CanvaPro
Lifestyle, Nutrition and Bone Density
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, bones that contain more minerals are denser, stronger and less likely to break. With age or certain medical conditions, bones can become less dense, and osteoporosis can develop, causing them to become weak and brittle.
A study published in the journal Nutrients evaluated the role of lifestyle and nutrition on women’s bone mineral density. The study included a cross-section of more than 850 healthy premenopausal Saudi women divided into two age groups: 20-to-30-year-olds and 30-to-40-year-olds. Participants had their bone mineral density measured, provided a blood sample and self-reported sociodemographic, medical history, lifestyle, diet and physical activity information. The results showed that adequate vitamin D levels, physical activity and proper nutrition positively influence bone mineral density values, which can impact bone health later in life.
Asbestos in Cosmetics
Talc is used in many forms of makeup, including bronzer, blush, eyeshadow, foundation, mascara, lipstick and dry shampoo, because it absorbs moisture and prevents caking. But when it is mined, talc may be contaminated by naturally occurring asbestos, which is not evenly distributed, making testing for it difficult.
British women have sued leading cosmetic companies in U.S. courts, claiming they contracted mesothelioma, an incurable cancer of the lining of the lung, heart or stomach, through their use of cosmetic products. Unless related to employment, it is difficult to bring legal action for mesothelioma in the UK, and many of the large cosmetic companies are based in America. These women are seeking compensation and to raise awareness of the risks.
Johnson and Johnson (J&J) faces nearly 54,000 lawsuits related to claims that talc in baby powder caused ovarian cancer. A Reuters investigation found that J&J executives knew for decades that talc can contain asbestos.
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The Power of Community
Finding a Path to Meaningful Connection
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Despite society’s increasing emphasis on individualism, the concept of community remains a powerful force for personal and collective well-being. Loneliness is detrimental to both mental and physical health and comparable to smoking or obesity in terms of risk factors. Among older adults, isolation is associated with an increased probability of dementia.
In his book Project Unlonely: Healing
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drkalidas.com
Our Crisis of Disconnection , Dr. Jeremy Noble discusses the public health and economic impacts of widespread seclusion, as well as the importance of building meaningful connections. He advocates making loneliness screening a routine part of health care and prescribing social activities such as museum visits, classes and nature walks
for patients. These measures have been effectively used in the United Kingdom. There is a growing movement that encourages us to find our tribe—those that resonate with our own core values, interests and lifestyle. While historically associated with Indigenous groups, a “tribe” is defined as a social division consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect. The point is to surround ourselves with supportive individuals that uplift us and provide a sense of belonging.
Multigenerational Communion
Family is, in a sense, our original tribe, serving a crucial role in our sense of belonging throughout life. Regardless
Amar Kalidas, DO; Kirti Kalidas, MD, ND; Sara King, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC
of interpersonal dynamics, maintaining consistent connection with relatives can ease loneliness and improve longevity and other health outcomes. In the world’s Blue Zones, where people live the longest and have a better overall quality of life, the happiest centenarians build their lives around their families, and multigenerational households are common.
To remain anchored in our heritage, it is essential to regularly share moments and activities with kin, enjoying family meals, holiday parties, game nights, walks around the neighborhood or even living room hangouts. Simply spending time together allows us to share family stories, learn from each other and create traditions. Outside the family, there are many ways to find or create a tribe of cheerful acquaintances and deeply held friendships that form a safety net to shield us from drifting into isolation.
Serving Others
Volunteering is a powerful way to engage in activities that align with our passions and values while also connecting with like-minded people and helping a cause or deserving group of individuals. One example is Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), founded in 2003, which brings together 70 medical professionals and approximately 100 community stakeholders that volunteer their time to provide free health care for the uninsured people of the Berkshires, in Massachusetts. While the practitioners treat patients—in-person and online—the others serve as interpreters, drivers and receptionists. The generosity of these individuals addresses an important need in the community and keeps people out of hospitals.
“By engaging in VIM’s mission, volunteers find purpose and meaning through the act of giving back, enhancing their own lives while improving others,” shares VIM Executive Director Ilana Steinhauer. “The opportunity to serve the community not only fulfills a personal desire to help those in need, but also fosters a deep sense of connection and community among volunteers. This camaraderie and shared mission enrich the volunteers’ lives,
creating a ripple effect of positivity that strengthens the entire community fabric, making it a cornerstone of community and personal development.”
Another example is nonprofit Citizen University, which equips Americans to be cultural catalysts. Their Local Civic Collaboratory aims to shift the paradigm of success from individual achievement to shared triumph. Through collaborative gatherings, participants are empowered to address local issues, launch educational initiatives and spark artistic endeavors while relishing in deep conversations, forging meaningful bonds and launching networks of unified action.
Making Deep Connections
Coming together around shared beliefs or devotional practices can be another avenue to step away from seclusion and into a loving fraternity. Some people with shared values and goals choose to live with each other in what is known as intentional communities, many of which emphasize sustainability, cooperation and mutual support. The Foundation for Intentional Community offers an online directory to find the right living situation based on multiple criteria, including geographical location, community type, dietary preferences, educational styles, religious or spiritual beliefs and renewable energy sources.
The Kindness of Strangers
When we are out and about, we encounter people we don’t know— strangers in supermarket aisles, bank lines or walking their dogs in the local park. Instead of passing by without acknowledging them, we have the choice to say hello or exchange pleasantries. On his podcast “Hidden Brain”, Shankar Vedantam explores how these tiny encounters can impact our lives. Smiling at people in the street, expressing gratitude for small acts of kindness or complimenting someone’s style elevates both parties. Studies by Amit Kumar, assistant professor of marketing and
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psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and Nicholas Epley, professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, highlight the beneficial, long-term impact of small acts of kindness and positive interactions on recipients and givers.
Bonding Online and In Person
If friendships were lost during the pandemic, rebuilding a tribe will require intentionality and creativity. Reaching out with purpose to create community might just be what saves us and the planet. When we feel a sense of belonging, we can collaborate for the common good and boost our ability to protect nature, innovate and find solutions for the world’s problems. How we network is limited only by our imagination: Take classes at the local library, community college or arts organization; find a fun activity on MeetUp.com; or form a group to make new friends that share a common interest. While online tribes can offer accessibility and a broader reach, thus facilitating connections with people from different geographies and backgrounds, face-to-face interactions are essential to our well-being. Holistic psychologist Victoria Kar shares, “Never in history has
humanity been more disconnected from each other than now. The predominance of urban lifestyles creates barriers for deep social connections, and technology creates a false sense of belonging—where we can reach someone on the other side of the world on a screen—yet have no one to hold next to us.”
In-person communities provide a more heartfelt sense of fellowship. When we are present, we emit energetic fields, and the heart radiates perhaps the most powerful energy. Studies conducted by the HeartMath Institute have shown that the heart’s magnetic field can be detected by other individuals up to five feet away, igniting our sense of belonging in a way that is not possible online.
In his recent advisory report, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Hallegere Murthy notes that, across age groups, people are spending less time with each other in person than two decades ago, and this is most pronounced among young people aged 15 to 24 that are engaging in 70 percent fewer interactions with friends. Murthy points out, “The impact of this lack of social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces and organizations, where performance, productivity and engagement are diminished.”
The report outlines six recommendations to enhance social connection, including:
• Urging for greater social infrastructure at parks, libraries and public programs
• Enacting pro-connection public policies at every level of government such as access to public transport and paid family leave
• Mobilizing the health sector to address needs stemming from isolation
• Reforming digital environments
• Investing in research to deepen our understanding of social isolation
• Cultivating a culture of connection
In his book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, Murthy identifies three types of connections that play a crucial role in our lives: intimate (close friends and family), relational (friends and acquaintances) and collective (communities). Factors such as work culture, social media and urbanization can hinder meaningful connections, contributing to a growing sense of isolation. As a solution, he emphasizes the importance of small, consistent actions such as active listening, expressing gratitude and engaging with community. True connection is a source of healing. The Surgeon General urges, “Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically.”
Finding a tribe can significantly impact our health and happiness, providing support, joy and inclusion. The connections we choose to nurture can enrich our lives in profound ways, ensuring we thrive in body, mind and spirit.
Thais Harris is a board-certified holistic nutritionist, bestselling author and international speaker. Connect at NourishTogether.com.
FangXiaNuo from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
Gathering Around the Friendship Fire
by Marlaina Donato
Communities of old were created and bound by a collective ethos that included a common ethnicity and geography, as well as shared religious beliefs and traditions. Gathering around the fire combined the needs of survival with stories and song that ignited generations with spiritual sustenance.
In our modern Western world, we sit amid the ruins of what community used to be. Our tapestry of human bonds is becoming threadbare beneath the weight of overly scheduled lives, screen distraction and social divisions. Despite having constant contact with others on our phones, newsfeeds and online conference rooms, we may sometimes feel like lone travelers across a tundra of isolation.
In nature, symbiotic relationships between fungi and trees, flowers and insects, and certain species of animals are the foundation of life. As much as 70 percent of forest flora depend upon winged creatures for pollination, and lichens are often composed of three organisms living together harmoniously.
As we go through the workday, drive the kids to practice and scramble to get dinner on the table, it
is easy to forget that we, too, are part of the natural order. Fostering life-nourishing connections helps us to cope and thrive, while prioritizing openness can become much-needed soul medicine.
Summer days are often treasured for the memories we make with those we love, yet to-do lists loom over our heads as August winds down. This year, let’s take the spirit of summer into the cooler months and vow to spend quality time with loved ones, mend the broken threads in our relationships and enjoy each other’s company in the present moment. We can choose to appreciate everyone—from the supermarket cashier to the family dentist—and see their worthy contributions interwoven in our own lives. In doing so, we might remember our own invaluable roles in the fabric of life.
To rekindle and build community, join a local group or class to share a passion; chitchat with someone while standing in line at the grocery store; or invite a neighbor to spend quality time together. Take every opportunity to make a connection.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
Pet Posse
Building a Network Around Our Animal Companions
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Like the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child,” it takes a village to raise a pet, too. Pet ownership involves much more than just feeding and walking them. It requires a holistic approach that includes training, socialization, health care and emotional well-being. A supportive community can play a crucial role in raising a pet by offering a diverse set of skills and resources that contribute to their comprehensive care.
Pets Build Community
A 2017 study across urban sites in the U.S. and Australia found that pet owners have significantly higher “social capital” than non-pet owners. Defined as the “connections among individuals, social networks, and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them,” social capital is crucial for community well-being.
The study describes how pets can facilitate social interactions, acting as catalysts for building social networks and fostering a sense of community. Such interactions extend beyond simply breaking the ice between strangers; they contribute to a wider social trust and the ties that bind communities together.
A recent report by Mars Incorporated, makers of human and pet food, highlights the power of pets to bring people together and alleviate the loneliness epidemic. Nearly nine in 10 adults say pets are one of the easiest conversationstarters, and pet parents say pets made them more familiar with their neighbors (85 percent) and more invested in their community (70 percent).
Benefits of a Pet Community
A supportive pet community enhances the quality of life for pets and their owners.
• Socialization for Pets and Owners: Pets need social interaction to thrive. Regular playdates, dog park visits and community events help pets interact with other animals, improving behavior, reducing anxiety and boosting happiness. For owners, these gatherings can foster lasting friendships and a supportive network.
• Shared Knowledge and Resources: Experienced pet owners share advice on training techniques, veterinarians, pet-sitting services, groomers and petfriendly activities, helping pets receive the best care.
• Emotional Support: Pet ownership can be challenging. A community offers much-needed emotional support, empathy and practical advice during difficult times, such as dealing with a sick pet or behavioral issues.
• Active Lifestyle: Pet communities promote an active lifestyle that includes group walks, hiking clubs and outdoor events that keep pets and owners physically healthier and happier.
• Advocacy and Education: Pet communities organize events for spaying and neutering, raise awareness about pet adoption and host workshops on pet care. These efforts contribute to the well-being of pets and promote responsible pet ownership.
Finding the Right Tribe
Joining a meetup hosted by a dog park or local pet club is an excellent starting point to find a pet community nearby. Websites like Meetup and Facebook help connect pet owners in the area. Online communities, including breedspecific forums and pet care groups, offer platforms to share experiences, seek advice and build friendships
worldwide. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok also host vibrant pet communities.
Veterinary clinics and pet stores often act as local pet community hubs, hosting events and providing bulletin boards for announcements. Participating in pet-friendly festivals, charity walks and adoption fairs offers great opportunities to meet other pet owners and learn about local resources. These activities not only help in finding a pet tribe, but also enhance a pet’s social life and well-being.
The right pet community includes professionals such as veterinarians, pet trainers and nutritionists to provide access to high-quality, accurate and reliable information and support. These experts stay updated with the latest research and best practices, allowing pet owners to benefit from the most recent advancements in pet care.
Building a Strong Community
If an existing community doesn’t fit specific needs, consider organizing personal events. Starting a weekly dog walk, hosting a pet playdate in the backyard or planning a pet-friendly picnic can create a supportive network of pet owners with shared interests. Volunteering at animal shelters, rescue organizations or pet adoption events is another excellent way to connect with other passionate pet owners while contributing to a worthy cause.
The power of community in pet ownership is undeniable. Embracing the collective care model ensures a healthier, happier and more connected life for all involved.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Ilarion Merculieff
on The Wisdom of the Elders
by Sandra Yeyati
Ilarion Merculieff is a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and the harmonious relationship with Mother Earth. For decades, he has served his people—the Unangan (Aleuts) of the Pribilof Islands in the Bering Sea—and other Indigenous peoples in a number of capacities. He was city manager of Saint Paul Island, commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce and Economic Development and chairman of the board of The Aleut Corporation.
Merculieff has chaired global climate change summits, led Indigenous gatherings for the healing of Mother Earth, participated in sacred ceremonies around the world, given keynote addresses at government conferences and lectured about traditional ways of knowing at universities. His many articles and books include Wisdom Keeper: One Man’s Journey to Honor the Untold History of the Unangan People.
Today, Merculieff is president and founder of the Global Center for Indigenous Leadership & Lifeways, and as the cofounder of Wisdom Weavers of the World, he collaborates with Indigenous Elders to propagate their vital messages.
Could you describe your Unangan upbringing on St. Paul Island?
I come from a remarkable people. Unangan means “people by the sea”. We’ve lived in the Bering Sea for over 10,000 years, and we’re still there. My generation was the last to have a fully intact traditional upbringing. The adults’ job was to create the space for a child to learn, not to tell them what to learn, how to learn or to define anything.
At age 5, I had a traditional mentor, my Aachaa, who took me under his wing until age 13. He taught me much of what I know about being a man, reverence for life, hunting and fishing, and the ethics and values of being Unangan, and yet he may have said no more than 200 words to me that whole time. I learned by watching and listening.
Why is it important to be present in the moment and in the
heart?
Our people understand that the heart never guides us wrong. It is a place of love, compassion, patience and understanding. When you’re out of the mind and in the heart, present in the
moment, that’s when you commune with all that is, or as we call it, the Maker. The heart receives things and communicates them to the mind. Traditionally, all people around the world used to have the heart tell the mind what to do. Today, the mind tells the heart what to do, which is a masculine imbalance, because it’s top-down, it’s control, it’s fear. Today, we have shut off the communication vehicle for receiving information.
Can
you explain the Hopi saying:
“Seek not to fight evil, let goodness take its place”?
We are energy beings. When we focus our energy on stopping wars, political corruption or the violation of women, we are taking our mental, physical and spiritual energy and putting it into those things, which increases the power of the negative things that we’re trying to stop. Instead, the Hopi say, just focus on the world you wish to see without reaction to anything else, and then we will see real change happen. When we are in alignment and in harmony with the vibrational field of Mother Earth, then we will have real impact. Even the smallest thing that you do that is positive, that is not in reaction against something, adds to this effort.
Courtesy of Ilarion Merculieff
How should we approach the problem of climate change?
People are depending upon governments and science and technology to figure out a way out of global climate change, but the Elders know that this is not going to be the answer. What we understand is that we must let go of this thing that everybody is attached to, which is the mind. What we call state-of-the-art technologies is nothing but the old regurgitated as new. For example, when the U.S. committed to hybrid fuel, that was considered good environmentally, but the Elders understood that this was going to have repercussions. Many of the world’s farmers stopped raising food crops to raise fuel crops like corn, and that led to food shortages, starvation and increased food prices around the world.
`Depending on logic and rationality to guide us is the wrong place to look. The answers are in our hearts. When we access that place, when we receive that information, we will have a gift to give to the world. Each and every person is needed now. You cannot do anything about climate change until you receive your gift. It’s challenging because, accepting that as a paradigm, you have to do things that your heart is telling you to do, and it might be something that people think is crazy, like going around dancing in a circle or leaving a good job. You might be worried about where you’re going to get your food the next day.
`When you stop worrying and just trust by being present in the moment and in the heart, you will contribute to the survival of the human race. Each person that does that changes the vibration that the world now is surrounded by, which is in a masculine imbalance. We need to change our consciousness now.
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit NACFL.com.
Three day conference registration begins at $440 with one and two day options starting at $120. Member discount, volunteer work exchange spots. Conference begins Friday morning and ends Sunday 4:00 pm. Farm-to-table wise traditions meals - Morning movement All day sessions plus Friday evening session & Saturday Awards Banquet CEUs for nurses, acupuncturist & NANP nutritionists - Children’s program
Optional add-ons: Real Milk Celebration Dinner 6:30-9:30 Thursday, October 24
Professional Guided Farm Day 7am-6pm, Monday, October 28
Conference and Lodging with special conference room rates at: Renaissance Orlando at Seaworld, 6677 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, Florida 32821
Register before August 31st for early bird pricing!
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Conscious Eating
In Search of the Healthiest Diet
Sustenance and Habits Inspired by Blue Zones
by Maya Whitman
The average life expectancy is 77.5 years in the United States, but residents of the Seventh-Day Adventist city, Loma Linda, California, are outliving the rest of the country by 10 years. Like other regions of the world classified as Blue Zones, Loma Linda’s soil and water aren’t sprinkled with magic, but daily lifestyle and dietary habits might be key contributing factors.
Coined by National Geographic explorer and researcher Dan Buettner, the term “Blue Zones” is bestowed upon intriguing corners of the world where people reach their ninth decade and beyond without suffering from chronic illness and disease. While no definitive formula for longevity exists in Loma Linda or any of the other four
Blue Zones—Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and Ikaria, Greece— commonalities include staying physically active, eating unprocessed food and enjoying a vibrant social network.
“By prioritizing physical activity, encouraging plant-based diets and creating spaces that promote social interactions, communities can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being,” says Buettner, author of The Blue Zones Kitchen, who found his life’s work traveling the world in search of centenarian secrets.
Delicious Simplicity
In 2023, JAMA Internal Medicine published the findings of a long-term study involving more than 75,000 women and 44,000 men over 36 years, which determined that adherence to one of four plant-based and Mediterranean dietary patterns can lower the risk of premature death. All of the dietary guidelines in this study included whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes. Growing evidence suggests that nutrient-dense, unprocessed meals play a major role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
“Diets in Blue Zones are predominantly plant-based, with a heavy emphasis on vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains. They also eat a variety of beans, which are a staple in their diets and an excellent source of protein and fiber,” Buettner points out, adding that moderate portion sizes, unhurried mealtime and leaving the table when 80 percent full are also highlights of the Blue Zone lifestyle.
Anna Freedman, a natural-food chef, educator and founder of Wholefood Harmony, in London, England, specializes in a health-supporting macrobiotic approach based on ancient Japanese philosophy and developed in the 1920s by George Ohsawa. She says,
Aamulya from Getty Images/CanvaPro
“Whole foods are essential to health and longevity. Plants capture the sun’s energy, so consuming vegetables, fruits, legumes and grains bestows both nutrition and vibrancy upon the body. These foods are alkalizing and directly nourish the cells, restoring the blood quality and supporting health and longevity.”
Macrobiotic favorites like lentils, chickpeas, whole grains and dark, leafy greens echo Blue Zone dietary models and are believed to promote overall systemic balance. The macrobiotic approach, adds Freedman, “can be adjusted to focus on improving a certain health condition or adapted to meet climate, phase of life or another factor.” In her work with clients, she encourages the consumption of a wide range of plant ingredients and cooking styles, and even incorporates certain animal proteins, to accommodate client preferences.
Diets that seek to promote a longer, healthier life usually include powerhouse ingredients such as naturally fermented sauerkraut and kimchi, legumes like lentils and split peas, and whole grains, especially barley, millet and oats.
Social Sustenance
In our modern world, feelings of isolation are reaching epidemic proportions, and in the medical community, loneliness is now seen as a risk factor for mortality that is equal to the effects of obesity, smoking or a sedentary lifestyle. Through Blue Zone research, it is understood that emotional nourishment is vital to good health. According to Buettner, “In Blue Zones, people often engage in regular social interactions, whether it’s through communal meals, faith-based gatherings or simply spending time with neighbors and family.” A table of delicious food surrounded by loved ones is an inspiring way to eat and age gracefully.
For Gladys McGarey, M.D., cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association, who is still practicing medicine at 103 years of age, our thoughts are also a form of nourishment. “What we feed our minds grows and lives, and we become it,” says the author of the bestseller The Well- Lived Life. “It has to do with love, the whole process of life. Love must be shared to flow, and life is the same. We must not only create community, but live it.”
Freedman sums it up saying, “Eating and togetherness is a key feature of humanity, which is alarmingly in sharp decline. Food was always meant to be enjoyed together, and doing so serves up much more than simply nutrition.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings magazine.
Toasted Spiced Chickpeas (Sardinia Side Dish)
YIELD: 1½ CUPS
1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp garlic salt
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F.
Toss the chickpeas, oil, cumin, garlic salt, chili powder and black pepper in a large bowl until well coated and uniform. Pour the mixture onto a large, lipped baking sheet and spread into one layer. Bake 45 to 60 minutes until browned and crisp, stirring occasionally.
Set the baking sheet on a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chickpeas to a serving bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature with plenty of napkins.
Recipe courtesy of Dan Buettner.
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Bean and Squash Tortillas With Papaya Salsa
This recipe calls for the use of nixtamal corn tortillas, a staple in Mexican cooking. The masa is made by cooking and soaking dried corn kernels with calcium hydroxide or another alkali, which significantly increases its nutritional benefits. The tortillas can be made at home from scratch or purchased ready-made. Look for products made with nixtamalized corn masa.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
1 small ripe papaya, peeled, halved, seeded and chopped (about 1 cup)
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1 small red bell pepper, stemmed, cored and diced (about ½ cup)
¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1½ cups canned black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium yellow squash, chopped (about 4 oz)
1 cup corn kernels cut from the ear or frozen kernels, thawed
2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded through the large holes of a box grater
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground dried cayenne (or less, to taste)
¼ tsp salt
6 nixtamal corn tortillas
Stir the papaya, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Cover this salsa and set aside at room temperature for up to 4 hours.
Warm 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet set over mediumhigh heat. Add the beans, squash, corn, carrots, cumin, cayenne and salt. Cook, stirring often, until the squash is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the papaya salsa and set aside off the heat.
Set the oven rack 4 to 6 inches from the broiler element; heat the broiler for a few minutes. Lay the tortillas on a large, lipped baking sheet and brush them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Broil until warmed and lightly toasted, about 30 seconds. Transfer the tortillas to serving plates and top each with a sixth of the bean mixture to serve.
Recipe courtesy of Dan Buettner.
Nolmedrano99 from Getty
Immune-Boosting Soup With Miso and Ginger Scent
This macrobiotic soup combines all the healing and digestive benefits of miso and ginger. Noodles, fish and a variation of vegetables can be added, too.
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
Dash sesame oil
1 leek, finely sliced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 zucchini or summer squash, finely diced
3-inch portion of wakame sea vegetable, rinsed and cut into small strips
3 cups boiling water
Spring onions, finely cut for garnish
4 tsp brown rice miso paste
1 inch ginger root, juiced
Heat the sesame oil and sauté the leek for one minute. Add the other vegetables and wakame. To make a broth, add water to cover the ingredients, bring to a boil then simmer for 4 minutes.
Remove one ladle of broth and place in a bowl. Add the miso to this broth, stirring to dissolve and incorporate the paste into the broth, and then pour it back into the original pot of cooked vegetables. Add ginger juice and simmer for another minute or so. Garnish with spring onion.
Recipe courtesy of Anna Freedman.
Overcoming Generation Z Loneliness
Prioritizing
Human Interactions
Over Screen Time
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Generation Z, defined as those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a digital era characterized by constant connectivity, yet accompanied by profound isolation. The pervasive use of social media, economic uncertainty, hybrid work environments, climate change anxiety and societal pressures contribute to this sense of loneliness.
The Cigna U.S. Loneliness Index found that nearly eight in 10 Gen Zers (79 percent) are lonely. Schools reported that between 2012 and 2018 nearly double the number of high school
students worldwide expressed a sense of loneliness compared to the previous decade. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Those that experience social isolation have a 32 percent higher risk of early death.
A leading theory for this phenomenon is that 2012 was the first year when more than 50 percent of Americans had access to a smartphone, and the use of social media platforms reached critical mass. While these platforms offer connection,
they often lack the depth and authenticity required for meaningful relationships. They give us the illusion of being connected while having our heads down, focused on our devices and ignoring the people and experiences around us. The curated nature of online profiles also can foster feelings of inadequacy and increasing loneliness.
To address this epidemic, it is essential to focus on creating environments that encourage genuine interactions and a sense of belonging. Understanding our needs and triggers, while also nourishing a sense of connection from within, can open the possibility to greater social connection and deeper interactions in the world. Here are some strategies:
Engage in community. Active participation in local activities can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Volunteering, joining clubs or participating in neighborhood events foster a sense of purpose and connection. Engaging in community service can enhance social networks and provide emotional support while helping others. Share interests and hobbies. Finding and participating in groups centered around shared interests can lead to deeper connections. Whether it’s a book club, sports team or foreign language class, these gatherings offer opportunities for meaningful interactions and friendships. Researchers from The University of
Queensland, in Australia, found that engaging in activities that align with personal interests helps to form a coherent social identity and reduces feelings of isolation.
Talk to strangers. Contrary to what older generations taught their children, talking to strangers is not necessarily a dangerous endeavor. It might seem easier to interact with our devices than start a conversation with someone new, but the results of the latter provide a greater sense of well-being
and a feeling of belonging. Happier people spend more time talking to others, and when people have more conversations with others, they report being happier.
Be authentic, kind and open. Building genuine relationships requires authenticity. Being open and honest about our feelings and experiences fosters trust and deeper connection. When unsure about what to say, a random act of kindness can profoundly impact the day for the better, creating a ripple effect in the community.
Start from within. “Our epidemic of loneliness corresponds to an epidemic of self-neglect. This isn’t just about being out of touch with others, but with our own body’s needs. Screen time can invade the space for adequate sleep and movement, leading to less resilience and reduced immunity,” says Peter Sholley, a psychotherapist in Massachusetts. “The gut biome is directly implicated, affected by low-nutrition foods, antibiotics, and sleep and exercise deficiencies. Many studies point to a connection between a compromised gut biome and lack of microbial diversity with an increase in depression and anxiety.”
The Power of Community
A strong, in-person community provides a support system, reduces stress and promotes overall well-being. To combat the loneliness epidemic among Generation Z, we can start by extending a kind greeting to everyone we meet—on a bus, in the classroom or in the checkout line.
Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist and author. Learn more at NourishTogether.com.
Register for the Calendar of Events EARLY . Classes often fill up quickly.
THURS AUG 1
Energy Guided Meditation w/ Kara. Thursdays: 8/1-8-15-22-29. 2:30-3:30p. $22. www. ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
SAT AUG 3
Pollinators: Birds, Bees, Butterflies w/ Buckaroo Mussatto. 10-11a. Free. South Seminole Farm & Nursery, Casselberry, 407-695-3247. www. SSeminoleFarmandNursery.com
Pouring Art with Gratitude w/ Kara. 11:30a1p. Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in a state of gratitude as you fill your canvas with heartfelt intentions, allowing vibrant colors and fluid movements to create stunning abstract compositions. This is a unique and joyful class! www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
SUN AUG 4
Develop Your Clairs w/ Kara. 11:30-1p. Unlock your natural gifts and deepen your understanding of the Clairs, such as clairvoyance and clairaudience, through transformative guided meditation and purposeful exercises. This immersive class empowers you to foster a greater connection with your intuition, offering profound insights into your unique abilities for personal and spiritual growth. $22. www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
MON AUG 5
VegCF First Monday Vegan Potluck Hosted by Vegetarians of Central FL, join us from 7-9p. Requested donation per person: a vegan dish (please bring ingredient list) or $10. First Unitarian Church of Orlando. See p30 for info.
Twin Hearts Guided Meditation. Mondays: 8/512-19-26. 2:30-3:30p. This meditation activates the Heart and Crown energy centers, allowing the downpour of Divine energy to increase inner peace, and so much more. Love Offering. www. ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
FRI-SUN AUG 9-11
Annual Eckankar Soul Adventure Weekend. This spiritual seminar is open to the public with complimentary admittance for those new to Eckankar. Orlando Marriott in Lake Mary. See details on pp 8 & 23. Register at www.eck-florida.org or call 386-6840312. This seminar is presented by Florida Satsang Society, Inc., a Chartered Affiliate of Eckankar.
SAT AUG 10
Organic Vegetable Gardening w/ Jim Hunter. 10-11a. Free. South Seminole Farm & Nursery, Casselberry, 407-695-3247. www. SSeminoleFarmandNursery.com
SUN AUG 11
Healing Circle 11:30-1p. Immerse yourself in the profound healing energies of guided meditation, Reiki, and Pranic healing techniques. Experience a sense of deep relaxation, rejuvenation, and inner peace as you harmonize your mind, body, and spirit in a supportive and nurturing environment. Join us on this journey to unlock your body’s natural ability to heal and restore balance. Donations are appreciated. www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
TUESDAY AUG 13
Mystical Journeys 6-week series (8/13-9/17) w/ Diane L. Ross, M.A., IANDS Facilitator Trainer Coordinator and author of Meditations for Miracles and Five Steps to Freedom. Learn to open your spirit eyes and travel into the dimensions typically hidden from you. We will Discover your Soul’s Plan, uncover your Spiritual Blueprint, learn your Life’s Purpose, meet your Spirit Guides, learn How to Channel and Connect with your Inner Healer. Would you like to Communicate with Loved Ones who have Crossed Over to the Other Side? This is also on the agenda, as well as Experiencing a Future Lifetime and more! Tuesdays at 7 pm ET online via Zoom. Each session will be recorded if you miss any dates. Cost for the entire series: $170. This is a soul-expanding series that will enhance your development and add joy to your life! Register at: www.dianeross.com, call Diane’s landline at 407898-7918 or text her at 407-538-7614.
WED AUG 14
Guided Breathwork w/ Nikki Paschar. 8p. Take the first step towards emotional and mental burnout recovery. Explore the transformative power of breathwork! Free. Reserve your spot at www. nikkipaschar. com/events or email Nikki@NikkiPaschar.com
SAT AUG 17
Edible Landscaping w/ Buck Mussatto. 10-11a. Free. South Seminole Farm & Nursery, Casselberry, 407695-3247. www.SSeminoleFarmandNursery.com
National Honey Bee Day presented by the Orange Blossom Beekeepers Association. 9a-3p. Meet the beekeepers, vendors, food trucks and family friendly activities. UF/IFAS Extension. Details at www.orangeblossombeekeepers.org
Psychometry w/ Kara. 1-2:30p. Practice your intuitive gifts by holding an item with someone else’s energy and tuning in for a message. $11. www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
Energy Healing Event 2:30-5:30p. Experience the transformative power of energy healing at our donation-based event led by a group of skilled channelers. Whether you’re seeking relief from physical or emotional pain, this session offers a valuable tool
MON SEP 2
VegCF First Monday Vegan Potluck Hosted by Vegetarians of Central FL, join us from 7-9p. Requested donation per person: a vegan dish (please bring ingredient list) or $10. First Unitarian Church of Orlando. See p30 for info.
FRI-SUN OCT 25-27
24th Annual Wise Traditions Conference. Renaissance Orlando. Early Bird Discount by 8/31/24. See ad, p19. www.wisetraditions.org
for self-healing, with the potential for personalized messages to guide your journey. Donations are greatly appreciated. www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
SUN AUG 18
Pendulum Class w/ Kara. 11:30a-1p. Have you wondered about Pendulums? Learn how to use one or become better at it. In this class you will also receive a pendulum to keep. $35. www.ShiftingSouls. net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
SAT AUG 24
Landscape Design w/ Judy Halpin. 10-11a. Free. South Seminole Farm & Nursery, Casselberry, 407695-3247. www.SSeminoleFarmandNursery.com
Free Monthly Meditation Event 1:30-5p. (Check-in begins at 12:30p.). This wonderful event includes wisdom from Vipin Mehta, crystal sound bowls with Amy Anthony, a guided meditation experience, and the opportunity to connect with the Center’s guides Ted Skorman, Jax Cassidy, Stephanie Ray, Heidi Bromm & Jill Marie Jordan. Mehta Metaphysical Center (One Purlieu Place, Winter Park 32792). Details on pg 5. Info: www.mehtametaphysicalcenter.com/event
Oracle Card Class w/ Kara. 2-3:30p. Unlock the potential of oracle cards in enhancing your daily life. $45 includes a deck of cards to take home. RSVP to www.ShiftingSouls.net (7575 Kingspointe Parkway Ste 21 Orl 32819)
WED AUG 28
Guided Breathwork w/ Nikki Paschar. 8p. Take the first step towards emotional and mental burnout recovery. Explore the transformative power of breathwork! Free. Reserve your spot at www. nikkipaschar.com/events or email Nikki@NikkiPaschar.com
SAT AUG 31
Flowering Shrubs w/ Judy Halpin. 10-11a. Free. South Seminole Farm & Nursery, Casselberry, 407695-3247. www.SSeminoleFarmandNursery.com
“Light Body” Sound Bath & Meditation Journey. Immerse & uplift in an afternoon of sacred sounds with Sound Healer & Transformational Energy Guide Amy Anthony in the Crystal Temple of Global Healing. $55/solo or $80/duet. Mehta Metaphysical Center, 1 Purlieu Place, Winter Park 32792 . Register now to reserve your spot. Cushioned mats & blankets included. Register at: www. sacredtemplehealingarts.com/sacred-sound
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in The Natural Directory email: naturalawakenings@earthlink.net.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE HOLISTIC PHYSICIANS
THE CENTER FOR NATURAL & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Kirti Kalidas, MD ND Amar Kalidas, DO Sara King DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC6651 Vineland Rd, #150, Orlando 32819 407-355-9246, www.drkalidas.com
We offer Functional, Integrative and Naturopathic Medicine modalities, including IV Therapies, Hormone Replacement, Weight Loss, Ozone Therapy and more. See ad, p12.
CHIROPRACTIC
HIJAMA CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
Dr. Sham Mohammed, DC
100 S. Bumby Ave, Orlando FL 32803
407-496-7547
HijamaChiro.com
Experience holistic healing with chiropractic care, acupuncture, and energy healing. Unlock vitality, enhance well-being, relieve pain, and improve mobility for a natural approach to your health and vitality.
CLOTHING & SHOES
BIJOU’S BOUTIQUE
2501 Edgewater Dr, Orl 32804 Mon-Sat 10a-6p 407-841-9728
www.bijousboutique.com
For 30+ yrs, find designer brands and unusual fashion, shoes, accessories & more. With Euro and Caribbean influences, French owner Bijou specializes in natural fibers. We carry sizes xs to XXL. 20% OFF during Your Birthday month!
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
HOLISTIC OPTIONS
635 Primera Blvd, Lake Mary 32746 407-333-1059
www.holisticoptionsinc.com
Experience the bestkept secret for optimal health! We use a Closed system. All disease begins in the gut!
CREATIVE ARTS
GIFTS • BOOKS & MORE
SHIFTING SOULS
7575 Kingspointe Parkway, #21, Orl 32819 connect@shiftingsouls.net 321-328-5912 shiftingsouls.net
Visit our peaceful Metaphysical store with crystals, books, sage, art and more. Check out all our classes and events in the calendar section.
DENTISTRY
DR. JEONGGYU AN, DDS, PA
Health-Centered Dentistry 213 S. Edinburgh Dr, WP 32792 407-678-3399
myholisticdental.com
Offering Mercury-Free and Metal-Free Restorations, Single-Visit Crowns, Veneers, Bioclear, Ceramic Implants, Metal-Free Braces, Invisalign, Safe Protocol for Mercury Removal. Call for Complimentary Consultation!
ECO-ADVENTURES
WINTER PARK SCENIC BOAT TOURS
312 E. Morse Blvd (just east of Park Ave) Winter Park 407-644-4056 www.scenicboattours.com
Tours include 12 miles within the pristine Winter Park chain of lakes. Perfect for office parties & family gatherings. Please call ahead for large groups. Gift certs available.
EMF ASSESSMENTS
MARTIN E. LATINO Certified Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist 407-721-9195 www.QuantumEMFSolutions.com
Electromagnetic frequencies can be detrimental to your health. I provide advance identification and remedies to help your body regenerate, especially in the bedroom areas where healing with restful sleep occurs. Visit the website to learn more about Analysis • Consulting • Testing • Surveys & Mitigations.
for sale
Doll Collection - Madame Alexander: 60 total, various sizes including Presidential Set. No boxes, Been on display with some dust. $2,000. For details email Susan: Scandelore@bellsouth.net or call 407-382-2333.
Do you have something to sell? Business, boat, car, sports equipment, musical instrument? Advertise here for our next Sept edition. Deadline: 8/20/24. Just $1 per word. Email text: naturalawakenings@earthlink.net
opportunities
Pediatric Provider Wanted to join team at Cannizzaro Integrative Pediatric Center in Longwood. We are looking for a PA, NP, DO or MD who is passionate about holistic care. Send resume to: nursemel@mycipc.com or call: 407-862-1163
Natural Awakenings magazine of Central FL is Hiring! Are you Eco-Friendly and want to meet like-minded people? We offer high commission-based sales & distribution opportunities. Visit www.NACFL.com and contact us or call/text Publisher Margaret Jones 407-628-0705.
Keep your friends informed with a Natural Awakenings Magazine Subscription mailed each month within the USA.
$33 ANNUAL • $16.50 6-MO 407-628-0705 or email: naturalawakenings@earthlink.net
ENERGY HEALING
HILLARY STRAUS, LMHC
Maitland Wellness Center 237 Lookout Pl., Mtld 32751 www.HillaryStraus.com 407-573-2285
Experience deep emotional healing with Healing From The Body Level Up™. Remove blocks from the Conscious Mind, Unconscious, Physical Body, and Soul.
TACHYON CHAMBER
Orlando • 407-473-6401
Stephanie Ray www.TachyonEnergetics.com
Move into the high vibrational energies of Love, Joy & Bliss. This Chamber can address all levels: Physical, Emotional, Spiritual. Our website lists many benefits and pricing. See ad, p23.
EQUINE THERAPY
EL RANCHO PARAISO DE SORRENTO
Laura Innis, B.S., M.A., PgDip www.elranchoparaiso.com laura@elranchoparaiso.com 775-374-6773
Conveniently located in Lake County, discover our Boutique Wellness Ranch: Immerse in Tranquility with Horse-Guided Mindfulness, Rejuvenating Meditations, Reiki, Therapeutic Sound Therapy, Revitalizing Massages, Corporate Retreats, and Serene Cottage Stays.
FARMERS MARKETS LOCAL VENDORS
AIN’T Y MAMA’S BAKED BEANS
Arlene J. Guffin, Owner Operator aintyomamasbakedbeans@gmail.com www.aintyomamasbakedbeans.com 407-579-0404
Beaning a Taste of Diversity to Your Table. Come get your bean shot samples! Lady Lake Farmers Mkt (Tues. 9a - 2p) • Bountiful Farms Mkt (Wed. 9a - 2p) • Brownwood Farmers Mkt (Sat. 8a - 2p) • Mount Dora Village Mkt (Sun. 9a-2p). Call/txt for special orders.
CM BAKARI
Cesar Cruz Instagram: cmbakari.fl CMBakari.fl@gmail.com 407-430-7293
Specializing in sourdough bread and fresh to order pizzas. Everything is hand made using the best possible ingredients and organic flours. Find us at Audubon Park (Mon 5-8p) and Packing District (Sat 8a-1p).
GOOD FILLS
Jennie Lee and Trung Tran 2497 Coolidge Ave, Orl 32804 hello@goodfills.co www.goodfills.co
Don’t throw away another bottle! Refill it and save money with natural & eco-friendly soaps, detergents, and cleaning products from Good Fills! Retail location in College Park and mobile refill van at Audubon Park, Packing District & Windermere markets.
GARDENING
REVIVAL GARDENING
info@revivalgardening.com 4104 Hunters Park Ln, Orl 32837 407-538-7343 www.RevivalGardening.com
Want A Green Thumb? Let Us Help! The Secret to growing healthy plants and nutritious food begins with the soil. We supply Central Floridians with the BEST Worm Castings and Organic Potting Soil! Find upcoming events, read blog articles and/or order online at www.revivalgardening.com See ad, p19.
HAIR SALON
ECO-BEAUTY SALON
448 S. Alafaya Trail, #14 Orlando, FL 32828
IG: @ECOBEAUTY_ORLANDO www.EcoBeautyOrlando.com 407-704-3147
Offering hair care services with Organic, ammonia-free, cruelty-free, vegan & natural products. First-time Color treatments will receive a FREE haircut!
MY HAIR ESSENTIALS
Denise E Hewitt
415 Montgomery Rd, # 145, Alt Sps 32714 deniseehewitt@gmail.com 407-644-6885
www.myhairessentials.com
As a Salon Owner and Master Stylist since 1990, I am also a Certified Trichologist. My passion is to keep the health of the hair and scalp a primary focus. With a holistic approach, we can create a unique plan to stop, reverse, and prevent hair loss. Special Castor Oil available for purchase, too. See ad, p19.
HEALTH FOOD CHAMBERLINS
NATURAL FOODS
Alt Spgs/Wekiva 407-774-8866
East Orl/Herndon 407-228-1373
Lake Mary 407-936-9470 Kissimmee 407-846-7454
Lakeland 863-815-0001
www.chamberlins.com
For over 85 years, proudly serving the Central Florida community with Organics and Local Products.
M & M VITAMINS & HEALTH FOODS
118 Middle St (SW corner of Lake Mary Blvd) Lake Mary • 407-330-2666 www.mandmvitamins.com
Serving CFL since 2006, we may be little, but we are Loyal. Get the lowest prices guaranteed on Protein Powders. Visit our website & Sign Up for exclusive monthly discounts! Mon-Sat 10a-6p, Sun 12-4p.
HYPERBARIC OXYGEN CHAMBER
FLORIDA HYPERBARIC
Dr. Sham Mohammed, DC 100 S. Bumby Ave, Orlando FL 32803 407-496-7547
Enhance healing, boost oxygen levels, improve recovery speed, reduce inflammation, and increase circulation with our Hyperbaric Chamber Oxygen Therapy. Ask about our special rates! See ad, p13.
LIFE COACHING
NIKKI PASCHAR
Board Certified Online Services 352- 809-2429
Nikki@NikkiPaschar.com www.NikkiPaschar.com
I facilitate burnout recovery with trauma-informed hypnotherapy, breathwork, and movement therapy—nurturing holistic wellbeing through personalized, mindful approaches. Free consultations. See ad, p13.
MASSAGE
INFINITY MEDITATION & MASSAGE LLC
Katie Feuerbach LMT MA #72353 772-834-8605
katie98feuerbach@gmail.com
With 20+ yrs experience, I specialize in Stress Release with Yoga Nidra Meditation & Therapeutic Massage. I also offer Mobile at home/office services. Regain your inner strength! Text/Call or email for appt.
MEDIUM
REV. JUDI WEAVER
Trance Channel Medium
Licensed Master Metaphysician Ormond Beach, FL Rev.Judi.Weaver@gmail.com 386-503-4930 www.JudiWeaver.com
Are you seeking - clarity, guidance and divine healing from your Angels and Guides? Receive personal insight messages that provide peace and purpose for your body, mind and spirit.
METAPHYSICAL CENTERS
MEHTA METAPHYSICAL CENTER
One Purlieu Place, WP, FL 32792 info@vipinmehta.com www.mehtametaphysicalcenter.com 407-853-2698
Founded by Vipin Mehta, this 8200 sq. ft. World-Class center houses a Metaphysical Art Gallery, Healing & Spiritual Center, Free Lending Library and the Crystal Temple of Love. Sign up early for Guided Tours and Meditations. See ad, p5.
ORGANIC BUYING CLUB
JOY OF ORGANICS PRODUCE BUYING CLUB
954-465-6502
JoyOfOrganics.carrd.co/#
Enjoy a variety of farm fresh, certified organic fruits and veggies at far below retail. Offering hundreds of regenerative farm food items.
PEDIATRICIAN
CANNIZZARO INTEGRATIVE PEDIATRIC CENTER
321-280-5867, www.MyCIPC.com
Functional, evidencebased medicine providing effective and non-invasive ways to treat the root cause of your child’s illness. Newborn to 21 years. ADHD, Autism, Allergies, Asthma. See ad, p11.
PHARMACIES
MAYASCRIPT COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
1141 Orange Ave, WP 32789 407-740-6292, www.mayascript.com
Very competitive prices. Fast turnaround time. Free delivery/shipping to your home or work. We offer free Bio-identical Hormone Consultations.
REAL ESTATE
RUI MANAKA REALTOR®
Align Right Realty Global 10691 E Colonial Dr, Orl. Instagram: @realestaterui realestate.rui@gmail.com 689-310-5389
Real Estate Services, now offering to list your home as low as 1.8%. Realtor® SFR Resource®, Engineer EnglishSpanish.
SALT THERAPY
THE SALT ROOM LONGWOOD
www.SaltRoomLongwood.com 407-862-1163
A safe, drug-free therapy proven effective for relieving symptoms of chronic sinus, lung and skin conditions such as acne, allergies, asthma, eczema, sinusitis and more. See ad, p11.
For Only $2.50 PER DAY You Can Start Marketing Your Business!
Reach thousands of TARGETED* Central Florida readers each month with our NATURAL DIRECTORY.
We cover four counties: Orange, Seminole, Lake & Osceola and worldwide with our digital edition!
*TARGETED:
100% of the people seeing Your Message are Interested in Health and Wellness.
CATEGORY NAME
YOUR BUSINESS NAME
Contact Name Address City, Tel#
Email:
Website:
Description: 20 words. Extra words and info lines available. Listings are a reference tool allowing our readers to find you quickly. Special pricing for all display advertisers
FOR NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE, YOU WILL RECEIVE:
One News Brief every four months (News Briefs are your opportunity to announce an event or a news item about your business – approx.. 200 words) and
Up to Three Calendar Event Listings every month
Don’t Delay – Contact Us Today!
Margaret Jones, Publisher
naturalawakenings@earthlink.net 407-628-0705 • www.NACFL.com
Editorial Calendar
Three-Month Planner
SCHOOLS
CENTRAL FLORIDA SCHOOL OF MASSAGE THERAPY
450 N Lakemont Ave, Ste A Winter Park, 32789 www.massagetherapy.cc 407-673-6776
Take a tour and Enroll for the 2024 sessions. Our graduates easily become certified with our comprehensive programs. This school also offers discounted Massage Therapy appts for readers who apply in advance.
SHOE AND ACCESSORY REPAIR
THE PROFESSIONAL SHOE REPAIR, INC.
Luis Restrepo
407-767-8118
Located inside the Altamonte Springs Mall on the lower level west of JC Penney, I repair all types of shoes, sandals, handbags & clothing alterations. Call for hours. Sometimes I can complete while you wait!
SKIN CARE
TS SKIN CARE
1520 Edgewater Dr, #A, Orl 32804
407-999-5008
Mon-Sat: 9a-6p • Sun: By Appt Only www.TSSkincare.com
For over 20 yrs, we formulate our own natural products and offer a variety of skin care services. We also specialize in Acne Treatments and Deep Pore Cleansing. Visit our website, and Sign up for discounts!
SPIRITUAL CENTERS
CASSADAGA SPIRITUALIST CAMP & BOOKSTORE
1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga (GPS city: Lake Helen) 386-228-2880 www.cassadaga.org
Established in 1894, our community has Mediums, Healers, Classes, Workshops, Tours & events year-round. Seekers are welcome and self-exploration is encouraged. Check out our large Spiritual Book & Gift store. More info on website. See ad, p25.
THERMOGRAPHY
CENTRAL FLORIDA THERMOGRAPHY
1555 Howell Branch Rd, Suite B-2 Winter Park,32789 407-622-9090
Cflthermography.com
Safe, no-contact, no-radiation thermography exams. Interpreted by Certified MD Thermologists. Offering breast, half body, and full body scans. Early detection is key!
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.
VEGAN
VEGETARIANS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
www.meetup.com/VegetariansCF www.CFVegFest.org
We are a non-profit, volunteer-run organization. Since 2005 we have hosted monthly potlucks and special events, including the annual CFL Earth Day Festival & VegFest. Sign up to receive notices for future events. All are welcome! .
WELLNESS CENTERS
SERENITY CENTER AND COMMUNITY SPACE
2040 Winter Springs Blvd., Oviedo 407-719-8883, Cassandracurley@aol.com www.serenitycenter.com (MM# 13024)
Our nurturing environment promotes and supports health, well-being and commUNITY. We offer massage therapy, acupuncture, skin care, counseling and more. Space is also available for workshops and special events.
CERESET CAN HELP YOUR BRAIN WITH
INSOMNIA A brain in harmony is likely to facilitate better and more restful sleep.
ADD & ADHD A brain in harmony supports focused attention, memory, problem solving and self-regulation, along with a sense of peace and calm.
MEMORY A brain in harmony is likely to improve memory and create even laser focus and concentration.
ADDICTIONS & ANXIETY A brain in harmony will provide peace, calm, and comfort in the storm.
DEPRESSION A brain in harmony will support an experience of possibilities and comfort to find solutions and acceptance.
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS A brain in harmony can reset the autonomic nervous system to resolve stuck fight-or-flight or freeze responses.
LONG COVID This includes loss of taste and smell or any of the other above issues—a brain in harmony has been found to eliminate most post-COVID infection issues.
“We often hear clients at our Cereset center say, “It’s a miracle!” But the real “miracle” is the brain’s ability to “hear” and harmonize itself using Cereset’s patented technology BrainEcho® sessions… with life-changing results.”
LIFE CHALLENGES Since the brain drives everything we humans do, think, say, sense, feel, and experience—a brain in harmony can make life as good as it can be!
was founded on the principle that the brain is capable of correcting itself when it can “hear” that it is stuck. Explore how these non-invasive sesssions can help you achieve wellness from the inside out!
Owners Judy and Bart Johnson