October 2025 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

Brain Gain

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES

Publisher Erica Mills

Editor Erin Lehn

Design & Production Kathleen Fellows

Erica Mills

Contributing Writers Jessica Chichester

Robin Fasano

Sales & Marketing Dana Boulanger

Erica Mills

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© 2025 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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.

Erica Mills

Dear Readers,

This month, as I introduce the Brain Gain issue, I’m reminded that true resilience is not only about strengthening the mind, but also about nourishing the heart. Mental wellness lives in the balance between body, mind and the connections that give our lives meaning. Lately, too many unexpected “goodbyes” have reminded me how fragile time truly is.

Instead of my usual Publisher’s Letter, and in honor of the recent loss of a dear friend, I wanted to share a personal reflection in the form of a poem I have written. I hope it resonates and brings a measure of peace to your day.

Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

The Light That Remains

There are moments that split time in two— the before and the after.

A sudden loss, a voice silenced too soon, and the people you love left holding both memory and longing.

In that shattering, life teaches us the hardest truth: nothing is promised, not even the next heartbeat, the next laugh, the next sunrise.

And yet, love is what remains. It fills the spaces where words cannot, it carries us when grief feels unbearable, and it reminds us—even in sorrow, we are still bound together.

So I say this with an open heart: Do not take life for granted. Do not take people for granted. Tell them what they mean to you. Hold them closer.

Let no kindness go unspoken, no embrace withheld.

For it is the simplest gestures—a call, a smile, a moment shared— that become treasures when tomorrow does not come.

May we live awake to this truth: to cherish now, to honor love, and to let gratitude guide us— even through the ache of loss.

May this light lead us toward greater love, gratitude and joy in the days ahead. Let us carry on with both wisdom and tenderness, honoring those we’ve lost by living fully in the time we have. Embrace your tribe, nurture both mind and body, and hold close the people you love. And remember that growth is not only about expanding the mind, but also about deepening the ways we love, connect and show up for one another.

With love and gratitude,

Walking Together Toward a World Without Alzheimer’s

The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Fairfield County will take place on Sunday, October 26, at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport. The event opens at 8:30 a.m., followed by a ceremony at 10 a.m. and the walk at 10:30 a.m.

This uplifting event unites families, caregivers and advocates to honor loved ones, raise critical funds, and support cuttingedge research and care services. As the Alzheimer’s Association’s largest fundraiser, the Walk transforms every step into progress—fueling hope for a future without Alzheimer’s.

This year, Cereset Westport is proud to be a sponsor. “This cause is very close to my heart,” says Crista Mathew, owner of Cereset Westport. “My father lived with advanced dementia, and I witnessed firsthand the toll it takes—not just on patients, but on their caregivers. While Cereset does not treat or cure Alzheimer’s, many caregivers I work with find it relieves stress and enhances brain performance, helping them stay grounded and present for their loved ones. Supporting them is at the heart of why I walk.”

The day will include energizing warm-ups, community booths, and inspiring stories from participants. Local journalist and broadcaster David Briggs, a Westport resident, will emcee the event and rally the crowd in this powerful day of connection and action.

“Registration is now open,” shares Mathew. “Lace up your shoes, gather your loved ones, and join the movement to end Alzheimer’s.”

Register online at act.alz.org/FairfieldCounty. To join the Cereset Westport team contact Crista Mathew at 203-557-3299 or Crista@Westport.Cereset.com. See ad, page 11.

Healing Visionaries Headline Passport to Health and Wellness Expo

Aaron Singleton, a gifted medical intuitive, healer, educator and pioneer in energy-based healing, has been transforming lives since 1993. His groundbreaking work includes the Energy of Life Integrative Healing Process, the Net-Neutral Ion Generator, Rings of Oden Tools for Healing, the discovery of BioMorphic Geometry, and the development of Egyptian Hand Positions for Healing.

Singleton partners with Claudia Sanchez, a gifted animal communicator, to facilitate powerful healing sessions for individuals and groups across the U.S. and abroad. Together, they are known for their ability to guide healing for hundreds of people simultaneously, both in-person and remotely.

The pair will serve as Keynote Speakers at the Passport to Health and Wellness Expo on Saturday, October 19, where they will also lead a free group healing session during their 1 p.m. presentation.

Free admission tickets available at Tinyurl.com/HCPExpo10192025.

Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, 42 Century Dr., Bristol. For information, contact Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com See ad, page 23.

See the YOGA, PILATES, FITNESS NETWORK on page 19.

Aaron Singleton

Claudia Sanchez

Halloween Fun at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo

Credit: BeardsleyZoo.org/glow-wild.html

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport is adding extra seasonal fun this October with family-friendly Halloween and fall events designed to delight all ages.

On Friday, October 24, the zoo hosts Zoo Tots: Not So Scary at 10:30 a.m. in the Kathy Brady Education Center. Perfect for preschoolers ages 22 months to 4 years (with an adult), the 30-minute program features stories, songs, a puppet show, simple crafts, and even a live animal encounter— all in a light-hearted, not-too-spooky atmosphere.

The following weekend, families won’t want to miss Boo at the Zoo, held on Thursday and Friday, October 30 and 31, from 12 to 3 p.m. Children are encouraged to wear costumes as they enjoy trick-or-treating stations, seasonal animal talks, and Halloween-themed activities across the zoo grounds. It’s a safe, festive way for kids to celebrate while learning about the natural world.

Adding to the autumn magic, the zoo’s popular Glow Wild Lantern Festival runs Thursday through Sunday evenings, September 25 through December 14, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. This after-dark adventure transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland filled with oversized hand-crafted lanterns, interactive displays, and photo opportunities. Guests can stroll the illuminated pathways, enjoy seasonal treats, and see wildlife in a whole new light.

Whether it’s daytime fun for little ones, Halloween festivities for the whole family, or a glowing nighttime spectacle, Beardsley Zoo offers something special this October.

For tickets and details, visit BeardsleyZoo.org.

Scarecrow Season Returns to Litchfield

The Litchfield Historical Society once again invites the community to celebrate autumn with its muchloved Scarecrows in the Meadow. This family-friendly event opens Saturday, October 19, at Tapping Reeve Meadow, behind the historic Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School at 82 South Street.

Festivities kick off with a community celebration from 1 to 3 p.m., featuring live storytelling, hands-on crafts and a lively scarecrow-making challenge. Families, schools, nonprofits and local businesses contribute creative scarecrow displays, transforming the meadow into a whimsical outdoor gallery of silly, spooky and imaginative designs that reflect the playful spirit of the season.

After the opening celebration, visitors can stroll through the meadow to enjoy the scarecrow display, which remains on view through October 31. The event offers a perfect opportunity to get outdoors, enjoy the crisp beauty of fall and connect with local history and culture in a lighthearted way.

Scarecrows in the Meadow is free and open to the public; donations are welcome to support the Historical Society’s programs. Local groups interested in creating a scarecrow can register through the Society’s website.

Celebrate the season, soak in the scenery and see how creativity comes to life in Litchfield’s historic heart. For details, visit LitchfieldHistoricalSociety.org.

Insight and Inspiration with Dr. Liz Raver

Dr. Elizabeth Raver

Dr. Elizabeth “Dr. Liz” Raver, a respected Connecticut-based medium and author, continues to guide individuals on their paths to spiritual insight and personal growth. Known for her clarity and compassionate presence, Dr. Liz offers private readings and group workshops that support emotional well-being and holistic transformation.

Holistic Voyage to Bermuda in 2026

Holistic Wellness Cruise to

May 21-26, 2026

PRICES FROM

Each month, she hosts a free international online discussion group that explores “anything and everything to do with mediumship.” Held on the fourth Friday at 8:30 p.m. EST, the group welcomes everyone—from curious beginners to seasoned professionals in after death communication. She also leads workshops on life-after-death topics, drawing on compelling reports from near death experiences, out of body experiences, and channeled communications.

Wellness enthusiasts are invited to join the Holistic Wellness Cruise, departing May 21 to 26, 2026, from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, with a scenic journey to Bermuda. This is a collaborative effort by Holistic Community Professionals (HCP) and the IMT Wellness Center and is being organized by Shirley R. Bloethe (HCP), Kristin Kasabucki (IMT) and Chris Bufomo. Enjoy a five-day experience that blends body, mind and spirit offerings of relaxation, workshops,

Her work has been featured in local wellness publications and events throughout Fairfield and Litchfield counties, including collaborations with metaphysical shops and community centers. She pens a monthly column for the international magazine Inner Voice, and co-authored the book Two People Desperate to Connect. Dr. Liz has also appeared on the Friday Afterlife Report and Soul Explorers podcast, both available on YouTube.

Contact Chris Bafumo at (860) 573-3199 or Shirley Bloethe at (860) 989-0033

Bloethe, executive director of Holistic Community Professionals, brings more than 35 years of experience hosting wellness events, while HCP member Bufomo is recognized for her 20 years of travel planning and her master’s degree in holistic thinking. They are joined by HCP Board member, Kristin P. Kasabucki, who is working closely with Bloethe on organizing and presenting the holistic programs. Kasabucki brings over 40 years of leadership in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, along with expertise in business consulting, holistic coaching and Energy work / Reiki.

Visit www.TheTravelingBuddies.com or email Chris.Bafumo@cruiseplanners.com

EMAIL US for details and additional information YourHolisticEvents@gmail com

In addition to her private practice, Dr. Liz donates her time delivering spirit messages through Spiritualist Churches locally and in Australia (online). Her mission is to help others integrate spiritual awareness into daily life—fostering healing, clarity and empowered living.

For those interested in exploring Dr. Raver’s offerings—whether scheduling private or group sessions or joining a workshop—visit DrLizMedium.com or check her local event listings at New Insights Boutique in Sandy Hook. See ad, page 23.

OFFERING $50 ON BOARD CREDIT FOR EACH CABIN

Together, the team has crafted a program that blends fun, learning and rejuvenation through daily workshops and individual sessions at sea. Topics include future-focused health and wellness, energy healing, holistic living, self-care, and spirituality, complemented by yoga and meditation for reflection and renewal. Beyond personal growth, the journey fosters connection and community, offering a rare opportunity to combine travel, self-care, and inspiration with like-minded wellness enthusiasts.

While anchored in Bermuda, participants can enjoy excursions and outdoor activities that complement the holistic theme—blending nature, relaxation and mindful exploration. Meals and onboard amenities are designed with wellness in mind, creating an immersive experience from start to finish.

Pricing begins at $946.17, with limited spots available. To reserve a space or learn more about the Holistic Wellness Cruise, visit  Tinyurl. com/Holistic-Cruise

Inside cabins, Ocean View Cabins, Balcony Rooms

, Classes, events and Workshops

Visit Bermuda Enjoy the beautiful island of Bermuda Independence of the Seas round trip from Cape Liberty, NJ

on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas from Cape Liberty to Bermuda

On September 6, at the 14th annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo in Stamford, Connecticut, Natural Awakenings publisher Erica Mills was honored with the Community Leadership Award for her long-standing commitment to supporting community wellness.

The award recognized Mills’ 14 years of service as a premier media sponsor of the expo—an event presented by Stamford Health that draws thousands from Fairfield and Litchfield counties. During the expo, more than 130 exhibitors and 10 themed wellness zones offered free health screenings, fitness and wellness classes, family-friendly programming and tools for holistic well-being.

According to the expo organizers, the Community Leadership Award highlights individuals and organizations whose sustained contributions foster health, awareness and positive change in the region. Her leadership through Natural Awakenings—providing visibility, resources and inspiration—was singled out for this prestigious honor.

This recognition not only celebrates Mills’ past efforts, but also underscores the importance of media that elevates health, conscious living and community connection. As Natural Awakenings continues to support local wellness, this award is a fitting tribute to her ongoing mission.

“I’m truly honored to receive this award and to be recognized among so many inspiring community leaders,” says Mills. “For more than a decade, it has been my joy to share resources and stories that help our neighbors live healthier, more conscious lives. This recognition belongs not just to me, but to everyone who believes in building a stronger, more connected community.”

Mills is the publisher of two Natural Awakenings editions: Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess (WakeUpNaturally.com) as well as Fairfield and Southern Litchfield counties (eNaturalAwakenings.com).

I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.

—Maya Angelou

Erica Mills

Credit: Alex Rosenfeld Photography

Your Love Will Make the Difference

by Gregg Kirk

In the spring of 2018, energy healer, Lyme disease advocate and health and wellness coach Gregg Kirk published his first book, The Gratitude Curve. The memoir chronicled his decade-long struggle with Lyme disease diagnosis, treatment and ultimate remission—along with a spiritual awakening he hadn’t anticipated.

The autobiography detailed drastic treatments, neardeath experiences and encounters with supernatural and mystical healings through well-known energy workers. The book quickly gained traction in both the Lyme disease and spiritual communities, leading Kirk to guest appearances on numerous podcasts. At the time, he had no intention of writing a sequel.

That changed with the release of his second book, Your Love Will Make the Difference, in September. As Kirk notes in its opening line, “Life will happen if you let it.” The new work chronicles the extraordinary events that unfolded after his first book’s release, beginning with the death of a family member just weeks later.

The book is loosely divided into three sections. Much of it reads as a memoir of Kirk’s “spiritual adventures,” including interventions from spiritual guides that sent him across the globe for Earth energy clearings. Four chapters focus on the steps he took toward Lyme remission, including the factors that have kept him in good health. A final section shares two chapters of messages he attributes to nonphysical sources.

With a title that emerged as channeled information during one of his weekly online healing circles, Your Love Will Make the Difference speaks directly to the current world climate. During one session, Kirk asked his guides, “What’s our role in a chaotic world?” The answer was clear: “Tend to your own garden.” Love yourself and others unconditionally, and “never miss an opportunity to give, teach or receive love during every part of your day. This is how we start The Revolution of Love.”

Perhaps the most compelling section of the book reads like The Da Vinci Code from a parallel universe. During a remote energy session, Kirk revealed the past life of a patient as Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar. Initially assuming his mind was playing tricks on him, Kirk later learned that Molay had been executed in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. The session occurred just four days after the cathedral itself caught fire in April 2019.

Coincidences continued as Kirk received assignments for Earth clearings in various parts of the world. Despite financial and personal challenges, within weeks he found himself standing at “Point Zéro Paris,” directly in front of Notre Dame. Two months later, he traveled to Morgan’s Bluff on Andros Island in the Bahamas—the only island in the Bahamas that extends into the Bermuda Triangle—where he discovered human footprints embedded in volcanic rock during an energy clearing.

Your Love Will Make the Difference is a multifaceted read: part spiritual handbook, part page-turner. It blends mystical insights with timeless wisdom, offering practices and techniques that readers can easily integrate into daily life.

Your Love Will Make the Difference is available on Amazon.com and other online booksellers. Gregg Kirk will be hosting a Healing Circle and book signing event at the Sticks & Stones Farm in Newtown, CT, on Saturday, October 4, starting at 3 pm. For more information visit GreggKirk.com/event/sticks. See ad, page 5.

Gregg Kirk at a Book Signing for The Gratitude Curve

Rooted in Community

Foundations of Practice and Growth

Kaia Yoga, founded in 2006 by Connecticut native Gina Norman, has grown into a vibrant, deeply connected community of practice. A yoga teacher for more than 30 years, Norman recalls, “I started teaching when I was 21. I really love and believe in what I do. I’ve never done anything else.”

She moved to Greenwich with her former partner, yoga teacher Stan Woodman, and took over an established studio that had long been a part of the local yoga landscape. Woodman continues to teach Ashtanga at 12:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Westport Kaia Yoga location.

Norman brought not only her teaching but her presence. “You see me in class all the time,” she says. “I was just teaching a class with a mix of students—one woman has practiced with me for 15 years, alongside someone newer to the community. When you have that layering within a single class, you feel the depth. It’s a very supportive community.”

The name Kaia, meaning “to embody” and also the name of Norman’s daughter, reflects her vision. Today, Kaia Yoga has 10 studios and 145 teachers. “I’m grateful for our instructors—they help nurture a deeply rooted community. Our growth is organic, and we’re always finding ways to strengthen those bonds,” she says.

Methodology with Meaning

Norman has developed a methodology that blends structure and freedom. “There has to be a reason for what you’re doing. Why that pose? Why that sequence?” she asks. “Everything has a deeper meaning. It’s mindful and intentional yet still allows space for freedom.”

Kaia Yoga looks beyond asana, addressing body, mind and heart. Classes weave philosophical and physical themes to nourish students on all levels. Norman illustrates this with side angle pose: “You might place your hand on the inside or the outside of the foot. Today, I had students place the hand inside because we were working toward a bind, so there was a purpose to it,” she explains. “Every choice in the sequence supports where we’re headed.”

Kaia’s teachers reflect that depth and majority of their teachers have more than 10 years of teaching experience and the average student has been practicing at Kaia Yoga for over five years. “This is testament to the commitment that our students and teachers have with one another,” Norman affirms.  “Yoga is about relationship, and we have been building that in the community for 20 years.”

A Rooted Journey

Norman discovered yoga while living in New York City. “I took a class and fell instantly in love,” she says. “I dove deep into my practice at a time when yoga was just beginning to bloom in New York. I’ve always been an avid student, and I still am.”

She maintains a strong mindfulness and meditation practice. During the pandemic, Kaia Yoga built an online community of daily practitioners. “It’s wonderful to

Kaia Yoga’s Deep

Gina Norman

Kaia Yoga Greenwich Studio

Kaia Yoga Studio Class

practice with a global community and see the weaving together of in-person and online students,” Norman reflects.

Her advice is simple: “Do your yoga and meditation and stick with it. There is value in steadiness. It enables you to live your life fully awake and engaged. It is transformation plain and simple.”

A Community That Grows Stronger

The sense of roots extends beyond Norman,

reflected in the passion of her team. She highlights the wide range of offerings that allow the community to grow: “We have free and donation-based classes, virtual offerings, workshops, retreats in Costa Rica, teacher trainings, and specialty events ranging from Thai massage trainings to sound healing. Whether you’re seeking restorative, flow, power or hot yoga, we have you covered.”

Looking Ahead

Kaia Yoga remains rooted in its mission while branching out with new opportunities. A Grand Reopening and Open House will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on October 16 at its flagship Greenwich studio—a perfect chance for new and longtime students to experience the community firsthand.

Norman shares a vision for the coming years: “We see Kaia continuing to grow as both a local and global community—deepening our online offerings, creating specialized trainings, and hosting retreats that bring people together in transformative

ways. The heart of our mission remains the same: to create a space where everyone feels welcome, grounded and inspired.”

Plans are already underway for a 20-year anniversary celebration in 2026, marking two decades of community, growth and shared practice.

For more information, class schedules and locations, visit KaiaYoga.com or email Info@ KaiaYoga.com. See ad, page 12.

Brain Health and Wellness

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Kaia Yoga Greenwich Studio

Gina Norman

Shade Investments for a Cooler Future

A shade map produced by the University of California, Los Angeles, and American Forests reveals a critical shade shortage in the United States. This map, covering more than 360 cities and towns, highlights where shade from buildings and vegetation is present. City planners can use the interactive tool to strategically place shade trees to mitigate rising temperatures. A 2020 study published in GeoHealth found that extreme heat contributes to 12,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S., a number that could rise to 50,000 under moderate warming scenarios.

The map illustrates how investments in shade may impact temperatures at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. in specific locations. Trees deliver 25 times more shade than buildings at noon, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing extreme heat. The map’s creators also offer real-world examples of the benefits of shade coverage, such as on school routes in Austin, Texas, public transit stops in Detroit, Michigan, and public parks in Phoenix, Arizona.

Innovative Office Lights Lure Remote Workers

Companies are enhancing office lighting to attract remote workers back. Circadian lighting aligns with our biological clocks, regulating melatonin and serotonin levels by mimicking the sun’s pattern—increasing intensity until midday, then dimming in the afternoon, with color temperature shifts from cooler to warmer to cooler.

Artificial windows and skylights, preprogrammed to replicate outdoor conditions, provide virtual sunlight and moonlight to offices obstructed by other buildings or the floor above. Some companies offer cordless rechargeable lamps to bring a home-like vibe to individual workspaces. Others allow employees to use a remote control to adjust lighting intensity, color and aspects of phototherapy, a treatment designed to boost mood and well-being. Lighting options also enable employees to optimize their appearance on video conferences by dimming overhead lights and darkening room edges.

The Power of Lament

Expressing Grief as a Path to Healing

by Robin Fasano

Sound is integral to life. Upon our first breath into the world, we let out a wail.

Lament also starts with a wail, says Stefan Andre Waligur, a member of the Benedictine monastery of Shantivanam in India, who has studied and researched the practice of lament. “We need to wail— just wail when we’re in the throes of grief,” he says.

Lamentation is an expression of grief, sadness or pain. It’s “crying with words.” This entails plentiful wet tears and intense sound to unleash what’s inside of you. “The entire repertoire of the heart needs to be released,” emphasizes Waligur. “It’s passionate and poetic.”

An ancient tradition led by women, lament expressed the despair of entire communities and families. Men would step back and give the women space to enact the custom. “Lamenting helped to sustain the community,” Waligur says. “It was a powerful healing experience.”

Women cried out and wept, carrying and tending to the sorrow of a culture. As funeral keeners, they would yell and bellow, yank at their clothes, and fall onto the ground in fits of fierce sobbing, exteriorizing the grief of everyone.

“Lamenting is really about opening your heart,” he explains. “Letting it out is the way.”

Waligur suggests five ways to lament and acknowledge grief.

Use Your Voice

With lamentation you’re processing emotions through sound or song. So, sing or call out.

Hearing your own voice is therapeutic. Find a word or phrase and recite it again and again. Repeating a mantra is a way of embedding something and becoming one with it. Repetition is a form of prayer and worship—it’s a holy exercise.

Create an Altar

Lamentation is a type of ritual, so use the corner of a room in your home to make a sacred space for ritual and healing. Add photos, candles, incense, flowers—whatever has meaning for you. This is a holy place, a mini temple that holds you while you grieve.

Cultivate your own daily ritual—whether it’s kneeling while saying a prayer, rubbing a stone or lighting a candle. Find what works for you.

Look to Poetry

Poetry is a container that serves the passion of lament like “the banks of a river moving the grief where it needs to go and flow,” Waligur notes.

Drink in the verses. Say them aloud. Let the energy of the lyrics permeate your body. Move with the tone and cadence.

Write your own poem or lament. Say it out loud.

Practice Silence

Silence promotes truth. And this helps you attune to your feelings, bringing you back to yourself.

Carve out time for silence three times a day for 10 minutes.

Through stillness and quiet, you’re getting in touch with the most important thing: your heart. “You’re listening to your heart…learning to feel,” he explains. And by tapping into your inner self, you access and generate the means to grieve and heal.

The more you sit in silence, the easier and richer it becomes, and the more benefits you reap.

Gather Together

Just as lamenting was done on behalf of a community, find or start a group where members gather to reveal pain. “Sharing sorrow in a communal setting enhances our own experience of lament,” says Waligur. This can be a weekly or monthly gathering to express individual or collective loss through singing or chanting

“You’re never alone, you’re not isolated,” says Waligur, adding that your ancestors, spiritual guides, and invisible helpers are always present to assist you through grief. “You have help in the unseen world.”

Robin Fasano is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Activating Neuroplasticity

The Brain's Ultimate Rewind Button

by Hannah Tytus

The brain has an amazing ability to rewire itself by strengthening, rerouting or growing new connections in response to learning, experience or injury. This continuous reshaping is known as neuroplasticity. The changes can be positive, such as regaining movement or speech after a stroke or learning a new skill. Sometimes they are neutral, and other times they can be harmful when maladaptive patterns reinforce chronic pain or anxiety. Fortunately, the brain can grow and adapt at any age, and there are many ways to help it thrive. Nourishing foods, mindful movement, meditation, social connection, clean air and restful sleep are everyday choices that can nurture the brain in powerful ways.

Neuroplasticity Across the Lifespan

It has long been believed that children’s brains are more malleable as they grow, and that once they reach adulthood, the brain stops

evolving. But new research suggests that this may not be the full story. While the brains of developing children are certainly very adaptable, the adult brain is far from fixed.

A variety of influences, including stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, medications, environmental stimulation, learning and aging, can reshape how brain cells are built and function. These factors may trigger changes in the size or structure of brain regions, shift the brain’s chemical makeup, alter the shape of individual neurons and even rewire networks of connections, sparking the growth of new neurons in a process called neurogenesis.

Scientists have long known that injuries, chronic stress and the natural process of aging can take a toll on the brain. Yet, new discoveries in neuroscience and integrative medicine point to the remarkable potential for repair and renewal at every phase of life.

Healthy Fats

“Nutrition is the foundation of everything in health. You can’t build anything in the body without good food,” says Dr. Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist, researcher and author of Dementia Demystified: The Definitive Guide to Resurrecting Your Brain, Reversing Cognitive Decline and Regaining Your Memory. Contrary to decades of marketing campaigns for low-fat and fat-free diets, Toups explains, healthy fats are essential for brain health. The spongy white and grey matter of the brain, where all the thinking and messaging happens, is made primarily of fat.

Found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are some of the healthiest fats, increasing blood flow in the brain and nourishing its physical structures to help improve learning, memory and cognitive well-being.

Mindful Movement

“The most validated ways to support neuroplasticity are exercise and meditation— and both are free,” says Toups. Exercise is well-known to protect the brain and boost thinking skills. One way it may do this is by supporting the growth of new neurons and strengthening connections within the hippocampus, an area in the brain involved in the formation of fresh memories and the recall of past experiences. A 2017 study published in Experimental Gerontology found that regular exercise significantly increased hippocampus volume, while nonactive participants showed a shrinking hippocampus.

In addition to strength and cardio training, exercise that incorporates mindful and creative components may enrich the benefits. Engaging the body and mind at the same time can strengthen neural networks and support long-term cognitive function. Long walks, yoga classes or playful sessions with the kids or grandchildren are excellent ways to support the link between body and brain. Studies show that tai chi, a mindful

movement practice, may be even more effective than regular exercise in protecting cognitive function because it increases brain activation in regions associated with motor function and focus, and is accessible to those with mobility limitations.

Daily Meditation

A regular mindfulness practice supports neuroplasticity, making it easier to regulate emotions and handle stress. A 2024 review found that regular meditation can physically reshape the brain, strengthening areas tied to focus, emotional control and self-awareness. One reason for this is meditation’s effect on a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This molecule acts like fertilizer for brain cells, helping them grow, form new connections and remain healthy. Meditation increases BDNF, and higher levels of BDNF are linked not only to sharper learning and memory, but also to longer lasting brain health.

Additional research has demonstrated that even a short daily meditation session can increase gray matter density in regions tied to learning, memory and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes help reduce stress reactivity and support long-term resilience. Even if formal seated meditation is not feasible, simple mindful presence can help. “I try to tell people to find small moments to come into their body, come into the moment and be present,” Toups advises. “You can do that by washing the dishes. You don’t need to sit in lotus position and chant for an hour.”

Creative Activities

“Every time you learn something new or do a novel task, you are promoting neuroplasticity,” explains Toups. Learning new skills, from juggling to speaking a new language, produces measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in brain matter volume. These changes can occur in both early-learning phases and longterm practice, underscoring the brain’s capacity for adaptation throughout life.

Making music and dancing can strengthen connections in the brain; even the act of listening to music has been shown to enhance neural plasticity and cognitive flexibility. Toups recommends rocking out to a favorite song in the kitchen and choreographing a few dance moves.

Restorative Sleep

Rapid eye movement (REM), a stage of sleep marked by increased brain activity and vivid dreaming, plays an important role in neuroplasticity. During REM, the brain actively prunes unhelpful neural connections and reinforces others, supporting brain development, the learning of new skills and memory improvement.

To support consistent REM sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of shuteye and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time. A good night’s rest after learning a new skill or information can help that lesson integrate into the brain, supporting behavioral change.

Clean Air

Keeping the air in the home clean is important for overall brain health. Research suggests that mold toxicity may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, after researchers discovered traces of fungi inside the central nervous system of many Alzheimer’s patients—an infection that was absent in healthy individuals. Mold toxicity in the home can elicit an immune response and harm the brain. For example, a 2020 study found that black mold inhalation can cause inflammation in the hippocampus and reduce neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.

Practicing clean air habits can help assuage the risks of mold exposure at home. These include investing in an air purifier, ventilating regularly by opening windows, using exhaust fans and maintaining household ducts. Mold concerns can be investigated with a simple at-home testing kit, followed by professional testing and remediation, if needed.

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Three Ways To Boost Neuroplasticity Naturally

by Hannah Tytus

Meditate for 10 minutes. Sit down with eyes closed. Notice the breath and observe thoughts without judgment as they travel through the mind. Allow feelings of discomfort, frustration or impatience to come and go, knowing that they are part of the process that leads to increased selfawareness, enhanced emotional regulation and improved focus.

Get involved in the community. Join a crafting meet-up, group hiking excursion, dance class or volunteering event. Activities that allow us to socialize, move our bodies and learn new things are excellent for the brain.

Learn something new. Play a game, learn a new art form or read something challenging. Engaging the mind and body, such as moving our fingers while crafting, can help the brain forge new connections.

Light Therapy

“Photobiomodulation is a powerful way to create neuroplasticity, both quickly and over the long term,” says Dr. Lew Lim, founder of the Vielight photobiomodulation (PBM) device, which has been studied in collaboration with universities and medical institutions, including the University of Toronto, Harvard Medical School and Mount Sinai Hospital.

PBM, also called light therapy, uses gentle red or near-infrared light to stimulate brain cells, boost the energy-producing parts of cells known as mitochondria, improve blood flow and calm inflammation. “When we activate the mitochondria with PBM, the mitochondria actually release growth factors, which support growth of new cells in the brain,” Lim explains.

According to Lim, PBM may help the brain protect and repair its neurons, encourage the growth of new connections and support the clearing of harmful waste proteins linked to cognitive decline. He asserts that certain light pulse frequencies, such as 40 hertz, may also help tune brainwave patterns that are important for memory and learning. While most research so far has been in small human studies or animal models, the results suggest that regular PBM could strengthen the brain’s natural ability to adapt and rewire itself. Some people use PBM as part of a daily routine to keep their minds sharp, while others use it to heal from more serious brain injuries.

Finding Community

Research shows that staying connected to others offers powerful protection for the brain. Older adults that feel lonely or spend long stretches without social contact face about a 50 percent higher risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, even when other health factors are taken into account. One long-term study found that memory and thinking skills declined 20 percent faster in those that reported feeling lonely.

Being socially active can help guard the brain against decline. For 25 years, the Northwestern University SuperAging Program has studied people in their 80s and beyond with nimble minds that work as well as people decades younger. Brain scans show that these study participants called SuperAgers do not exhibit the usual thinning of the brain’s outer layer normally seen with age, and one key area involved in attention and decision-making is thicker than even in middle-aged adults.

Under the microscope, SuperAger brain cells are larger, better connected and show fewer signs of Alzheimer’s damage or inflammation. These resilient individuals tend to be very social, valuing close relationships and staying engaged with others—habits that may work hand-in-hand with their unusually healthy brain structures to help protect thinking skills late in life.

Even a weekly coffee with a friend or joining a class can be powerful brain fuel. People with rich social lives, including those that regularly share time with friends, family and communities, tend to keep their minds sharper for longer.

An Evolving Brain

The brain is never truly fixed. It is a living, adapting system that can grow stronger, sharper and more resilient at any age, and we can guide those changes. Whether through movement, nutrition, light therapy, meditation or meaningful connection, every choice we make can help shape and rewire the mind for the better. The science is clear: it is never too late to nurture the brain’s potential. Embrace neuroplasticity as a lifelong journey and let each new day be an opportunity to learn, adapt and thrive.

Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and former writer at the National Institutes of Health. She also hosts “Root Shock”, a podcast exploring how cultural and systemic forces shape our understanding of health.

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Dear Brain: Let’s Try Something Different

How to Rewire the Mind, One Phrase at a Time

by Ingrida Perri

Ever notice how often little phrases slip into conversations—“I have to,” “I don’t have time,” or “I’m so far behind”? They may seem harmless, but they sneakily shape how life feels. The words we repeat most often become the story we believe. But what if we could change that story?

We can, and here’s a simple trick to use: say it differently.

Take “I have to,” for example. Years ago, I gave up gluten to help my body heal. At first, I felt frustrated and even a little resentful—I felt like I had to deprive myself. Then my husband gently reminded me that I always have a choice. Saying “I choose to” changed everything. Suddenly, what had felt unfair became a positive, empowering step.

Other familiar phrases can be reframed, too:

“I don’t have time” → “It’s not a priority right now.” Clear and honest. It keeps the focus on what matters most.

“I’m so far behind” → “I’m doing my best.” Every step counts. This shift turns pressure into encouragement.

“I can’t handle this” → “I choose to rest” or “I’ll take one step.”

Recognizing what is needed—rest or gentle action—helps build resilience.

The brain is naturally wired to cling more tightly to the negative than the positive. Psychologist Rick Hanson puts it simply: “The brain is like Velcro for negative experiences, but Teflon for positive ones.” That negativity bias once helped humans survive by scanning for threats, but today it can fuel unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Here’s the magical part: thanks to neuroplasticity, the brain can change. Repeating positive phrases or noticing small wins strengthens new neural pathways. Bit by bit, the mind can be rewired for optimism, confidence and resilience.

Ingrida Perri, MA, J.D., is a Duke Integrative Medicine–trained Health Coach and an Integrative Life Coach with decades of meditation and holistic practice. She combines presence and intuition with analytical skills from her legal career, giving clients tools they can use today and guiding them toward meaningful change that lasts. For more information on 1:1 and group coaching, classes and workshops, visit SpiritInTraining.com or email Ingrida@SpiritInTraining.com. See ad, back cover.

Flip One Phrase

Try this: pick one phrase you catch yourself saying. Write it down. Add a positive reframe beneath it. Place it where you’ll see it every day. With each positive reframe, the brain learns a new story—one that feels lighter, kinder and far more encouraging—and gradually, life begins to reflect it.

The Brain’s Best Friends

3 Daily Habits for Lifelong Mental Clarity

by Crista Mathew

Keeping the brain sharp, balanced and resilient doesn’t require the latest supplement or brain-training app. The brain thrives on the same timeless habits that keep the body healthy. Decades of research point to three essential pillars of brain health: movement, restorative sleep, and effective stress release. Think of these as the brain’s best friends—the foundation that supports clarity, focus, creativity and emotional balance at every age.

And the best part? Small daily choices add up to big gains for the brain when practiced consistently.

Exercise: Fuel for the Brain

Exercise is often celebrated for its benefits to the body—stronger muscles, calorie burning, and heart health. Yet movement is just

"You are one walk, one meal, one deep breath away from shifting the entire chemistry of your body."

—Dr. Mark Hyman

as vital for the brain. Each time the heart rate rises, blood flow to the brain increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients that fuel memory and focus. Even more powerful, exercise stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), often called “fertilizer for the brain” because it helps support the growth of new brain cells and strengthens existing connections.

As Dr. Daniel Amen writes in The Brain Warrior’s Way: “Exercise is the fountain of youth; it’s critical to keeping your brain vibrant and young. If you want to attack

Alzheimer’s disease, depression, obesity and aging all at once, move every day.”

Sleep: The Brain’s Reset Button

Modern culture often glorifies busyness and treats sleep as optional. But the science is clear: sleep is non-negotiable when it comes to brain health. During deep sleep, the brain consolidates memories, clears out toxins and resets emotional balance, preparing us to face the next day with clarity and calm.

When sleep is shortchanged, the effects are immediate: forgetfulness, irritability, brain fog, and even weakened immunity and selfcontrol. Over time, poor sleep raises the risk of mood disorders and cognitive decline. Sleep is not simply rest; it’s the brain’s most powerful form of self-care.

Stanford professor Dr. Andrew Huberman puts it simply: “The single most important thing for optimizing brain function is sleep.”

Better sleep begins with consistency—going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, keeping the room cool and dark, and avoiding screens before bed. A calming wind-down routine—such as reading, journaling or meditation—signals the brain that it’s time to power down.

Stress Management: Keeping Calm for Clarity

A small dose of stress can be helpful, sharpening focus and motivation. Chronic stress, however, is toxic for the brain. Elevated cortisol over time can shrink the hippocampus, which is critical for learning and memory. Stress also disrupts sleep, weakens focus, drains energy, and strains relationships.

Managing stress doesn’t mean eliminating it—it means providing the brain with

Leo Rohmann on

daily opportunities to reset. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, journaling, laughter and time in nature can calm the nervous system and release tension.

Small Steps, Big Gains

Brain health is not the results of a single supplement, app or one-time fix. It is built day by day, choice by choice, on the foundation of movement, sleep and balanced stress.

Dr Mark Hyman states: “You are one walk, one meal, one deep breath away from shifting the entire chemistry of your body.”

Simple daily actions—an after dinner walk, a consistent bedtime, or even three deep breaths between meetings—are small investments that create long-term clarity, energy and resilience.

For those interested in going beyond the basics, emerging technologies are showing promise in supporting the brain’s ability to reset and self-regulate. One example is Cereset, a noninvasive approach that uses sensors to detect brainwave activity and then reflects it back as sound, giving the brain a chance to “hear itself” and selfcorrect toward balance and flexibility.

Whether through timeless habits or new innovations, the key is consistency— small steps practiced daily can transform the brain’s health and resilience for years to come.

Crista Mathew, owner of Cereset Westport, helps clients release stress naturally with Cereset’s patented BrainEcho technology. Book an initial series in October and receive $180 off when completed by year end. Mention this article when booking.

Location: 18 Kings Hwy. N., Westport, CT. Call 203-557-3299. Email Info@Westport. Cereset.com or visit Cereset.com/centers/ cereset-westport to book your sessions today. See ad, page 11.

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Creativity Therapy

Discovering the Healing Power of Crafting

by Megy Karydes

In living rooms, coffee shops and community centers across the country, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The arts and crafts of previous generations—from quilting, basketweaving and jewelry-making to painting, pottery and bookbinding—are experiencing an unprecedented renaissance that extends beyond nostalgia.

“This trend is a natural reaction to how much of people’s lives are spent on screens,” remarks Ivana Labuckas, clinical director at Build Bright Care Group, in Granada Hills, California. “People are constantly dealing with abstract tasks like emails or social media that never give them that satisfying feeling of being truly done. Crafting brings them back to something real.”

Digital Detox

Recent research published in Frontiers in Public Health found that engaging in arts and crafts activities increased people’s sense that life was worthwhile. Of the nearly 7,200 adult participants, those that engaged in creative activities self-reported higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction and overall wellbeing, even after accounting for employment status and socioeconomic conditions.

Making things with our hands may be just the digital detox we need. Crafting provides what Labuckas calls “a process people can control and a finished product they can actually hold in their hands, which provides a powerful sense of accomplishment and calm in a world that often feels out of their control.”

Anxiety Relief

The mental health benefits of hands-on crafting are also profound. “Craft-based activities tend to activate various regions of the brain linked with memory, attention and motor coordination,” explains Jessica Plonchak, clinical director at ChoicePoint, a mental health and addiction treatment center in Fairlawn, New Jersey. “Being engaged in slow-paced handwork works as a meditation for many people, as it keeps their minds in good coordination with rhythm and repetition.”

According to Plonchak, the rhythmic nature of crafting “ultimately increases dopamine levels, while reducing stress and anxiety levels.” Unlike the short-lived boosts from social media notifications, craft-induced dopamine provides sustained satisfaction and genuine mood elevation.

The focused attention required for counting stitches or following intricate patterns creates what psychologists call flow states—periods of deep engagement where stress and time seem to fade away. “Making something by hand is one of the best forms of practical mindfulness people can do,” says Labuckas. “The focused, rhythmic nature of these activities gives busy minds one thing to focus on, quieting the part of the brain that tends to replay worries.”

Kim Rippy, a licensed counselor and owner of Keystone Therapy Group, in Burke, Virginia, is also an avid crocheter. “Crafting slows down the brain to shift into a more mindful state of focusing on the present,” she says. “One can’t count crochet stitches correctly if they’re worried about something else from the past or future.”

For Rippy, who manages patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, crafting serves as a powerful regulation tool. “Something in one’s hands that is productive helps the brain stop from drifting or becoming overwhelmed with anxious or intrusive thoughts,” she notes. This tactile engagement pulls attention away from worry and grounds it in present-moment awareness, a principle that underlies many therapeutic interventions.

Antidote to Overconsumption

The crafting renaissance also allows us to reuse and repurpose materials destined for the landfill. This shift from consumption to creation represents a reorientation

of values. “Instead of just buying and discarding things, people realize the utmost importance of creating something of their own and preserving it,” Plonchak says. “It allows people to believe that, apart from being consumers, they are also the creators of something inventive and useful. This acknowledgment boosts self-esteem, improves emotional regulation and keeps the negative forces at bay.”

Consider upcycling fabric scraps into patchwork blankets, turning old CDs into mosaic art, transforming glass jars into lanterns or vases and wine corks into a trivet. To ensure the sustainability of a crafting project, use minimally toxic materials, avoiding new plastics, and be mindful to reduce waste at every step.

Igniting the Imagination

In her clinical work, Plonchak has witnessed firsthand that “crafting serves as a bridge to better mental health by offering moments of stillness and creativity.” It is a sophisticated form of therapy that engages multiple brain systems while providing

sustainable, meaningful alternatives to digital entertainment.

As society navigates an increasingly complex and accelerated world, the wisdom needed is not found in the latest technology, but in time-tested practices. In every stitch and woven strand, we are not just creating treasured objects. We are choosing to craft calm, build community and rediscover what it means to be truly present in our own lives.

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.

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Feeding Our Brain Power

What To Eat for Mental Acuity

by Maya Whitman

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in 10 adults aged 45 and older experience worsening memory loss or cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. A 2022 study in JAMA Neurology indicates that 22 percent of adults over age 65 experience mild cognitive impairment. Our dietary choices significantly impact brain longevity, and what we avoid is equally important.

The late pioneering researcher Dr. Martha Clare Morris developed the MIND Diet, which merges the Mediterranean and DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diets to enhance cognitive function with plenty of delicious versatility. A 2015 study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that strict adherence to the MIND Diet can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 53 percent, while moderate adherence can lower it by 35 percent.

The MIND Diet is a stress-free, lifelong plan with bountiful menu options, including fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil. It accommodates glutenfree and plant-based preferences. With satiating breakfast options like Greek yogurt or scrambled eggs, spicy chili for lunch and fun dinner burrito bowls, this diet is flexible and beginner-friendly, allowing for moderate consumption of pasta, potatoes and bread, with a focus on whole-grain, complex carbohydrates over refined ones. It also recommends oven roasting instead of high-heat frying.

A Lifelong Investment

“You can never be too young to embrace brain-healthy dietary strategies in support of longevity. Early adoption of brain-healthy eating habits may also enhance cognitive reserve, strengthening the brain’s resilience to neuropathological damage over time,” says neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, founder and CEO of the Willeumier Center for Advanced Research in Neurotrauma & Brain Rehabilitation, in California.

Embracing variety is important. “I like to have people think of brain-healthy food groups, not superfoods,” states Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and author of The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food. Fenn notes that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men “for reasons that have nothing to do with living longer. Alzheimer’s can

start in the brain up to 30 years before the first symptoms. It’s never too early or too late. Data shows that switching to a brain-healthy diet can have benefits even in one’s 70s.”

The Link Neuroscience Institute, in California, recommends eating more colorful berries, fatty fish such as sardines, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and a moderate amount of high-quality dark chocolate to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mood disorders, including long-term depression. They also advise against consuming processed and fried foods, sugar, alcohol and sodium.

Cutting Out the Culprits

According to Willeumier, even a modest reduction in the intake of processed foods, including packaged products, sweetened cereals, deli meats and sugary beverages, can have a positive impact on brain health. She recommends the complete elimination of alcoholic beverages. “Neuroimaging studies, including the Whitehall II Study, which followed 550 participants over a 30-year period tracking alcohol intake and cognitive performance, suggest that there is no protective effect of alcohol on the brain, even from light drinking. Eliminate alcohol for the preservation of your long-term brain health.”

Certain foods accelerate brain aging, and Fenn recommends limiting or eliminating fast and fried foods, sugar, artificially sweetened drinks, ultra-processed products and foods that are excessively high in saturated fat like butter and some cheeses. Certain cooking techniques are also problematic. “Frying, searing and grilling directly over high heat creates inflammatory particles called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs,” explains Fenn. “Think low-and-slow when you cook—low heat, slow cooking, braising, poaching, steaming and indirect grilling.”

Willeumier notes that these healthy eating habits can have an immediate effect on brain function by influencing neurotransmitter production, stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and improving cerebral blood flow, all of which can also help us to live longer, maintain our focus and thinking skills, and feel happier.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

SALMON AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

2 wild-caught salmon fillets

1 lb fresh asparagus, washed

2 Roma tomatoes

1 avocado, sliced

1 head butter lettuce, divided in half

½ lemon, sliced in two

Preheat the oven to 400° F.

1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped

1 Tbsp fresh or dried thyme leaves

Sprinkle of oregano

Himalayan salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled

Place salmon in a baking dish and squeeze an even amount of lemon juice on each fillet. Season filets evenly with chopped garlic and thyme leaves. Add Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake salmon in the oven for 25 minutes.

Place asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Add Himalayan sea salt and black pepper to taste. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 15 minutes.

Serve salmon on a bed of butter lettuce with chopped Roma tomatoes, avocado and roasted asparagus on the side.

Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.

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Smart Devices for Pets

Integrating Technology Into Daily Routines

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Advancements in technology are improving the daily lives of pets and their people. From collars equipped with global positioning systems (GPS) to wearable devices that monitor behavior and detect potential health shifts, these innovations are transforming the way we interact with our animal companions. Before embracing smart devices, however, pet parents should be informed about their potential benefits and limitations.

Location Trackers

GPS trackers attached to pet collars are gaining popularity, especially for active or escape-prone animals. Using satellite or cellular signals to continuously monitor a pet’s location, these devices help pet owners quickly locate stray companions.

A 2021 study conducted at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, revealed that the radiation exposure experienced by pets from GPS and Bluetooth devices is well below international safety standards, implying that adverse health effects are unlikely. The study also noted that adjusting how often a tracking device sends location data can influence a pet’s exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). For example, some devices transmit only every few hours when the pet is resting, but switch to every minute or every few seconds during periods of high activity. To further minimize RF-EMF exposure, the researchers recommend using a harness-mounted tracking device instead of a collar-mounted one.

In addition to GPS technology, microchips can serve as a reliable backup identification method. A microchip is a permanent form of identification implanted under the pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It cannot track a pet’s real-time location but stores a unique number linked to the owner’s contact details. If scanned

at a clinic or shelter, it can help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Health Monitors

Although they do not replace veterinary care, health trackers can support early intervention and informed veterinary conversations. Certain devices monitor behaviors such as scratching, licking, shaking, sleeping and resting. They compare this data to the pet’s usual habits or population averages. Sudden changes may indicate discomfort and prompt further attention. Data from health trackers helps veterinarians and pet parents confirm concerns about allergies, anxiety or appetite changes.

These devices can be useful in busy or multi-pet homes. Owners may miss subtle changes, whereas trackers are capable of detecting them. The historical data can help veterinarians see patterns over time. Still, the data needs context, as not every change signals an illness. Environmental shifts, routine disruptions or the natural progression of aging can also impact an animal’s behavior. Trackers flag what is different, but they do not explain why.

While pet health trackers can provide valuable behavioral insights, metabolic estimates such as calorie burn should be interpreted with caution. A 2023 study published by AVMA Publications evaluated the accuracy of a popular dog activity monitor. The study of 23 healthy dogs over a 28-day period found that the monitor failed to accurately measure the dogs’ calorie expenditures. Notably, the device overestimated the calorie needs of most of the dogs, even when their body weights remained stable throughout the study period. While these devices can be useful for tracking trends and identifying changes, pet owners should exercise caution when using them to make dietary decisions.

Automatic Feeders

Feeding routines are crucial components of many pet health plans, particularly for animals experiencing food sensitivities, chronic illness or weight concerns. Smart feeders can automate portion control, meal timing and consistency. For veterinarian-guided weight-loss plans that rely on controlled food and calories intake, it is imperative to select devices that can deliver multiple daily feedings in precise, small portions. Most smart feeders work well for dry kibble. Some models feature sealed trays, microchip-activated lids or cooling compartments, making them suitable for wet or home-cooked meals.

Smart feeders can help maintain consistency and promote healthy habits but should not be considered standalone solutions for dietrelated health concerns. They are most effective when integrated into a clinical feeding plan under the guidance of a veterinarian. This approach ensures that calorie needs are met, a healthy weight is maintained and potential dietary risks are minimized.

Smart Device Limitations

Smart pet technology can provide valuable insights into a pet’s daily habits, but it is essential to understand its limitations. These devices are not diagnostic tools. They cannot test for allergens, run lab work or evaluate physical symptoms. Their primary function is to serve as early warning systems, flagging subtle changes that pet parents might otherwise miss. It is important to refrain from solely relying on technology. Misinterpreting data can lead to unnecessary worry or delayed medical attention. Real observation and professional input remain indispensable.

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

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Full Moon Plant Talk, Meditation + Sound Bath –7-8p. Connect with lunar energy, healing plants, and sound. Free. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

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Flowers + Frequencies: Bloom Bar & Sound Bath – 4-5:30pm. Join us for Flowers + Frequencies, an otherworldly sound experience among autumn dahlia fields. Relax as crystalline tones and angelic frequencies blend with nature’s beauty for a truly transcendent journey. $55. Redding Flower Farm, 130 Picketts Ridge Rd, Redding. Tinyurl.com/52tcb3uw.

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Healing Circle & Book Signing with Gregg Kirk

October 4 • 3pm

Join energy healer/Lyme disease advocate/author Gregg Kirk for a Healing Circle Event.

The Event Includes: Book signing for “our Love Will Make the Difference; discussion on the current state of Lyme Disease in the region; guided meditation & attunements; Sign-ups for 1-on-1 energy sessions with Gregg Kirk.

$40. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. GreggKirk.com/event/sticks

Mark Your Calendar

Annual Support-A-Walk Presented by Support Connection, Inc.

October 5

Bring help and hope to people fighting breast and ovarian cancer.

Walk with us in FDR Park or wherever you are!

There are many ways to help: Donate • Raise Funds

Form a Team • Spread the Word Volunteer • Make a Difference! SupportConnection.org 914-962-6402

NEXT

DEADLINE

10/12/25

Sunday, October 5

Inner Harmony: Sound Bath + Breathwork –6:30pm. Craving more than another workout or glass of wine to unwind? Join Liz Soto-Baez and Lisa Baker this fall for Breathwork + Sound Bath. Breathwork releases stress and trapped emotions while Sound Bath restores on a cellular level—together creating deep calm and renewal. $45 per session. BreakThru Fitness, 48 Union St, Stamford. Tinyurl.com/ktah43p4.

Monday, October 6

Inner Harmony: Sound Bath + Breathwork –7:30pm. Transform your energy in 90 minutes. Release stress, unlock emotions and restore calm for lasting renewal this fall. $180/4-sessions. $45/per session. BreakThru Fitness, 48 Union St, Stamford. CreateGrowFlow@gmail.com.Tinyurl.com/297njzrv.

Saturday, October 11

Universal White Time Gemstone Healing 1 – 9:30am6:30pm. 10/11 & 10/12: 9:30am-6:30pm. Discover the ancient art of healing with crystals. Learn to use gemstone energy to support yourself, others, animals, and the environment. Includes initiation and Level 1 certification. All welcome. $495. $50 non-refundable deposit required. Sanctuary of Crystal Music Healing, 92 North Summit St, Studio West, Southington. Info@CrystalMusicHealing. com. 860-830-5841. tinyurl.com/ClassDeposit50.

Sunday, October 12

Herbal Tinctures for Heart Health – 2-3pm. Learn to make a herbal tincture for heart health to take home. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Friday, October 17

Reiki Circle – 6-7pm.A welcoming haven to explore energy healing for both practitioners and newcomers. Free. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Saturday, October 18

Open Mic Night – 7-9pm. Come and enjoy a fun evening of entertainment. Sign-up for those who wish to perform is from 6:30-6:55 pm. Singers, comedians, poets, writers, musicians and more are welcome. October’s featured entertainer: Gillian Bell. $15 cover at the door. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Sunday, October 19

Passport to Health & Wellness: Statewide Benefit Holistic Expo – 10am-5pm. Presented by the Holistic Community Professionals. 75+ exhibitors and speakers! Free raffles, lectures, admission (donations Aacepted). Keynote Speaker 1pm. Free Sound Healing 4-5pm. All door donations to benefit Children’s Health Defense. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol, 42 Century Dr, Bristol. 860-5897766. Tinyurl.com/HCPExpo10192025.

Herbal Vinegars for Liver Health – 2-3pm. Learn to craft a herbal vinegar for liver support to take home. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Tuesday, October 21

Energy Enhanced Crystal Sound Meditation Series– 6:30-8:30pm. Third Tuesday. Join Sanaré Wellness & Bradford Tilden to connect with higher aspects of your soul, balance and clear your mind and recharge and heal your body at the cellular level with sound, crystals and White Time energy inside a scalar wave and photonic healing chamber. $99. Sanaré Wellness, 92 N Summit St, Southington. 860600-0106. Tinyurl.com/EES-Crystal-Sound-Series.

Drum Circle – 7-8:30pm. Experience the power of rhythm, self-expression and deep connection with others through this fun and transformative drum circle led by Kevin Makarewicz. No experience needed. Bring your own drum or use the ones provided. $20 per person. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Mark Your Calendar Center for Spiritual Development

In-person and Virtual Services Every Sunday • 11am

Virtual: Tarot For Self Care with Angela Pizzarello October 1 • 7-8:45pm • $40

October: Virtual Classes with Rev. Hoy & Rev. James. Drop-In Mediumship Practice & Guided Meditation October 6 • 7-9pm • $20

Remote Viewing • October 20 & 27 • 7-9pm

In-Person: Tuesdays Guided Meditations October 7 • 9-9:45am

In-Person: Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair October 11 • 11am-4pm

Virtual: Edgar Casey, On The Illusion of Time with Kevin Todeschi October 15 • 7-9pm • $35

Virtual: Healing Service • October 16 • 7-7:30pm

Virtual: Children's Lyceum • October 19 • 9:30-10:15am

In-Person: Workshop-Past Life Regression with Janet Goldcort • $50 October 19 • 1-3pm

Center for Spiritual Development 293 Sound Beach Ave Old Greenwich • 203-637-4615 Email: CSDPastor@gmail.com Website: Center4Spiritualdev.org

Sunday, October 26

Herbal Oils + Salves for Skin Health – 2-3pm.Learn to craft herbal oils and salves for skin health to take home. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Cosmic Shamanic Sound Healing – 4-5:15pm. Join master vibrational healer Bradford Tilden for a restorative sound healing meditation with voice and crystal bowls. He channels angelic, shamanic and cosmic frequencies, weaving in gemstone therapy and UWT energy for deep relaxation, healing and transformation. $50. Hummingbird Healing Center, 57 Main St, 2nd Fl, Westport. 203-550-3390. HummingbirdHealingCenter.com.

Sunday, November 2

12th Annual New Age & Craft Expo – 10am5pm. Tarot & intuitive readings, handcrafted gifts, health & wellness, Tibetan bowls, aura photos, crystals, reiki and so much more. 2 Rooms of Dynamic Speakers & Guided Meditations. Health & Wellness.. and Much More! $6 with $1 off if you mention Natural Awakenings. Wyndham Southbury, 1284 Strongtown Rd, Southbury.

Mark Your Calendar

Universal White Time Healing Certification Level 1

November 7 • 6-9pm November 8 & 9 • 9:30am-6:30pm

Unlock your natural healing and spiritual growth with UWT—a powerful energy modality that awakens the soul, enhances abilities and provides tools to heal yourself and others with Light, Love, and frequency.

$525 • Register with a $50 deposit Pre-registration required. Deadline 10/30

Crystal Music Healing 92 North Summit St, Southington

Contact Bradford: 860-830-5841 Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com Tinyurl.com/ClassDeposit50

Ongoing Events

Sunday

Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30-11:30am. Bring whatever faith you are currently experiencing and join us to celebrate the Spirit within. All are welcome. We meet every Sunday from 10:3011:30am. Love offerings gratefully accepted. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

The Awareness Project Co. Monthly Support Call – 5-6pm. Second Sunday. This conference call is for people affected by targeted harassment and electronic monitoring. We provide a safe, judgment free environment for survivors to rediscover their voice, share and find resources. Dial in number: 774-290-2200. Conference ID: 3733840.

Monday

TLC Online Holistic Networking Morning –8:30-10am. 2nd Mon. We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).

Kundalini Yoga with Janet Aspen – 11am12:15pm. Kundalini yoga is a comprehensive ancient practice that combines movement, mantra, breathwork and meditation to facilitate the most efficient use of our innate energy. It clears blocks, increases vitality and creates alignment in body. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Tuesday

Rise and Shine: Guided Meditation – 7:30-8am. Second & Fourth Tuesday. Take 30 minutes to fuel your morning with a refreshing burst of calm and clarity. This guided meditation will help you start your day grounded, focused and ready to go—no experience needed. $10. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

TLC Networking Breakfast in Norwalk – 8:3010am. First Tuesday. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities and fun! $20. Valencia, 164 Main St, Norwalk. 203TLC.com.

Self-Care for Caregivers – 2-2:45pm. Second Tuesday. You spend so much time caring for others—this circle is a chance to care for you. Breathe, unwind and reconnect with yourself, in the company of others who understand. You’ll leave with simple, supportive practices to carry into daily life. Free. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

TLC Holistic Networking Evening in Newtown –6-7:30pm. Last Tuesday of each month. Calling all healthy living entrepreneurs and practitioners. Tribe TLC is a group of like-minded holistic practitioners and wellness entrepreneurs with a common mission to help and heal. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203TLC.com.

Drop In and Connect: Guided Meditation – 7:308:20pm. Second & Fourth Tuesday. Take a mindful pause at the end of your day with simple, guided meditation to help you relax, recenter and reconnect—with yourself and what matters most. We’ll close with a little time for quiet or shared reflection—whatever feels right for you. $15. SpiritInTraining.as.me.

Wednesday

Mass Energy Healing with Aggregata – 10am12pm. A chance to gather with others in a safe, high-vibrational space and receive deep energetic renewal, emotional clarity, and alignment with Source energy, guided by seasoned healer Aggregata Zupanova in the sacred setting of The Granite Church. $25/suggested donation. The Granite Church, 5 N Main St, Redding. Tinyurl. com/3cd276dm.

Gentle Yoga with Christy Abate – 11am-12pm. This class offers the benefits of a yoga practice while being conscious of injury and limitations. Class size limited to 10. Open to all levels. First class free (Code: CHRISTY). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

TLC Networking Happy After Hours in New Milford – 4:30-6:30pm. Second Wednesday. Opportunity to meet people in a relaxed atmosphere and make connections and celebrate good times. The Abbey, 132 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-856-9566. 203TLC.com.

TLC Online Holistic Networking Evening –6-7:30pm. Last Wednesday of the month. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many marketing opportunities and fun. Online via Zoom. For logon info please RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. 203TLC.com

Yogalates – 9:30-10:45am. Pilates-Yoga fusion tones glutes, thighs and abs. Low-impact, boosts fitness. Develop core strength, flexibility and alignment. Enhance posture. Improve fitness level. $22. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Gentle Yoga with Christy Abate – 10-11am. This class offers the benefits of a yoga practice while being conscious of injury and limitations. Class size limited to 10. Open to all levels. First class free (Code: CHRISTY). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-4312959. TheAngelCoop.com.

A Course of Love (ACOL) – 7pm. Join this discussion group centered around Mari Perron’s channeled book, A Course of Love. Let’s join our hearts and minds together as we share insights and life experiences while integrating A Course of Love into our everyday lives. All are welcome. No ACOL experience needed. Love offerings gratefully accepted. $15. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Ongoing Events

Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Religion Meet – 7-8:30pm. What is the purpose of life? Our intent is to address these issues through lectures, readings and guided group discussions. We will present ancient concepts, cutting-edge theories, speculations, assertions, data, and most of all, thought-provoking ideas for discussion. Free. Aleph Talks, 606 Post Rd East, Ste 667, Westport. AlephTalks.com.

Thursday

All Levels Vinyasa with Jackie Jackson – 9:3010:30am. 4th Thur. Open to all bodies, ages and abilities. Jackie is a seasoned yoga teacher who is skilled at cueing and sequencing to all students. First class free (Code: JACKIE). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Virtual Healing Service – 7-7:30pm. Third Thursday. All are welcome. There is no charge for this event. Contact: CSDPastor@gmail.com for Zoom link. Center for Spiritual Development, NSAC, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615.

Beyond Healing: Wellness as a Path to Wealth & Impact – 7-8pm. Our patented, cutting-edge phototherapy technology doesn’t just restore energy—it’s creating significant income streams for entrepreneurs worldwide through a proven, duplicatable system. This is about more than feeling your best and reverse aging, it’s about financial freedom. Free online event. Tinyurl.com/2jz84j84.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Spirituality Meet – 7-9pm. Bart Stuck (applied mathematician and physicist) and Marjorie Partch (Jungian astrologer) lead these weekly discussions, which follow readings and lectures on ancient concepts and cuttingedge theories, presenting fresh alternatives to the apparent dichotomy that. To participate via ZOOM: BartStuck@gmail.com. Free. AlephTalks.com.

Friday

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm. First Friday. With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. Learn Reiki 1st level, from an experienced Reiki Master/ Teacher (29 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Helpful for stress reduction and more. Two Manuals and certificate included (4 attunements), private classes offered). Please call to register. Prepayment required. This Workshop is also held on the first Saturday of the month, pick one date. Please no drop-ins. $135. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

Qi Gong with Josh Liebling – 11am-12pm. Qi Gong helps us release stress and transform into feeling refreshed, renewed and enlivened, with an undercurrent of peace and tranquility. Come experience routines that are not just powerful, but also fun and carry a sense of wonder and play. First class free (Code: JOSH). $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield. 203-4312959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Friday Night Fun Networking – 6:30-8pm. First Friday. With Beth Leas of Tribe TLC. Each month will feature a fun activity designed to enhance getting to know one another . RSVP to Beth Leas at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Free. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Monthly Yoga Mom’s Night Out – 7-9pm. Second Friday. Join us for an evening that’s all about reclaiming you time. Calm your mind and body with candlelight yoga, a few other experiences. Space is limited to 16 moms, so please pre-register. $40. Come with a friend and get a special gift. $40. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Saturday

Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. Discuss various works on topics such as self-study, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. Discussion followed by 30-minute guided meditation. Proceeds donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 1011:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice. All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Must register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm. Fifth Saturday. with Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/ Teacher. Learn Reiki Second (Reiki2) level, from an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher (29 years). Private classes are offered. Includes latest info. Two powerful energy connections included, from Gigi’s short Japanese Usui Lineage. Two manuals and certificate included. Prepayment required. This workshop is also held on last Friday and Saturday of the month, pick one date. Please no drop-ins. 203852-1150. $225. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com. Psychic, Spiritual & Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. Second Saturday. Experience gifted readers and healers offering guidance, insight, and connection in The Center’s sacred atmosphere. Reservations recommended; walk-ins welcome. Sessions are first come, first served. Center for Spiritual Development, NSAC, 293 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Contact: CSDPastor@gmail.com.

Restorative Yoga – 4-5:30pm. First Sunday. With Liz Wendel. The Angel Wing, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Classified

For Rent

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE- NORWALK –Associates In Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care located at 156 East Ave, Norwalk right off exit 16 I-95. We have 2 separate rooms available to rent. Perfect for another professional such as LMT, IBCLC, LCSW, etc. looking for inexpensive professional space (includes weekly cleaning, utilities, and has shared common reception and bathroom). Please contact Dr. Mark Joachim: 203-856-8520.

Grow Your Business

IF YOU’RE READING THIS, SO ARE THOUSANDS OF OTHERS! Let Natural Awakenings connect your business with the right customers. Contact us today to grow your local reach and impact! Call: 203-885-4674 or email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit. Community Resource Guide

Alternative Wellness

CERESET WESTPORT

Crista Mathew, Owner/ Tech Coach 18 Kings Hwy N, Westport 203-557-3299

Info@Westport.Cereset.com Cereset.com/Centers/Cereset-Westport

Cereset (Cerebrum + Reset) is a proven, non-invasive technology that helps your brain naturally release stress, restoring balance and flexibility. In just five sessions, clients often experience deeper sleep, improved mood, increased energy, sharper memory, enhanced focus and better emotional regulation. See ad, page 11.

Cave Rental/Unique Gathering Space

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN

555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 • Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com

Our wellness destination offers an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends and family, the Cave is inviting, warm and soothing. Check out our website for the many different ways to experience the benefits of our healing salt! See ad, back cover.

CBD/Hemp Wellness

HEMP LIFESTYLE

Valerie Aloisio, founder 203-521-2396

Valerie@HempLifestyleNetwork.com HempLifestyle.net

Discover Balance with Hemp Lifestyle. Support your body’s natural wellness with premium, organic hemp products. Trusted by physicians, triple lab-tested and U.S. Hemp Authority-certified, our cannabinoids help optimize sleep, mood, immunity and recovery. Visit HempLifestyle.net to learn more. See ad, page 5.

Chiropractic

UPPER CERVICAL DOC

Dr. Walter Trinidad, DC 161 East Ave, Ste 14, Norwalk 203-822-1461 • UpperCervicalDoc.org

Experience relief from chronic pain, migraines, and stress with our gentle, precise upper cervical chiropractic care. Restore balance, revitalize health. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Trinidad, dedicated Upper Cervical Doc.

Education

EMBODY THE SACRED

Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com

EmbodyTheSacred.net

Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred.

Herbal Medicine

HERBS LOVE AND YOGA

111 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook 917-267-8203

HerbsLoveAndYoga.com

Learn plants with us @HerbsLoveAndYoga

Herbs Love and Yoga is a Herbal Medicine School and Shop offering herbalist certifications, workshops, and in-house made herbal products. Shop teas, tinctures, flower essences, and CBD online or visit our Sandy Hook storefront. Yoga & reiki are also offered.

Integrative Optometry

EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD

Dr. Krupa Baxi • Dr. Allie Decker

Dr. Jason Grygier • Dr. Ken Landesman

Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami

Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh

Dr. Magy Tepliz • Dr. Matthew Weatherbee

LOCATIONS:

6515 Main St., Trumbull,• 203-374-2020

444 Westport Ave., Norwalk • 203-840-1991

2600 Post Rd., Southport • 203-255-4005

992 High Ridge Rd., 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 572 US-6, Mahopac, NY • 845-628-3750

103 S Bedford Rd., Mount Kisco, NY • 914-241-2020

CTNYEyecare.com

We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. Call to schedule your appointment today.

Meditation

CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 • ReddingMeditation.org

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates selfawareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

Medium

DR. ELIZABETH RAVER, PHD

Evidential Psychic Medium 203-400-9212 RavElizabeth516@gmail.com DrLizMedium.com

Offers mediumship sessions, classes, workshops, private/ group readings. Zoom, phone, or in person. Monthly free international discussion group on zoom. Member of IANDS (International Association for Near Death Studies, Inc.) and ARED (Afterlife Research Education Discussion). See ad, page 23.

Metaphysical Store

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique and metaphysical store, home to the USA’s first Shungite Room. Explore crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils, divination tools, oracle decks, and more. The Shungite Room offers energy sessions, readings, reiki, workshops and guided meditation, all led by experienced practitioners. Shungite, known for its antioxidant fullerenes, is believed to have powerful healing properties. Our offerings are designed to stir the soul and support innate healing. See ad, page 21.

Naturopathic Physician

NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Vis Wellness Center

Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234) 2-ACU-DOC • DrNicoleKlughers.com Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions such as personalized nutrition (food as medicine), herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food sensitivities, gut/microbiome and more. See ad, page 23.

Psychotherapy

NANCY S. SCHERLONG, LCSW, CHHC, SEP, CP, PTR/CJT-CM

Coaching • Psychotherapy • Consulting 470 Main St, Ridgefield 914-572-3167 • WellnessMetaphors.com

Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 12.

GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER

Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

Salt Healing Therapy Wellness Center

SALT

OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC

SPA

787 Main St, S Woodbury 203-586-1172 • NaturalSaltHealing.com

Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit.

Sound Healing

THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Wing offers diverse workshops, retreats, energy work, readings, Reiki, massage, sound healing, meditation, acupuncture, Qi Gong, and yoga classes. We also provide certification courses in Reiki, Crystal Healing, Meditation, Sound Healing and more—designed to uplift and align with New Earth energies. . See ad, page 21.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.

—Eleanor Roosevelt

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and humming-for-health meditations, her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 6.

Spiritual Center

UNITY CENTER OF NORWALK

Betsy Woods Brooks or Miranda Agosto 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-855-7922

Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org UnityCenterNorwalk.org

Unity Center of Norwalk is a spiritual co-op that offers a positive, practical, progressive approach to Spirituality. We’re about building community, deepening spirituality and transforming lives. Sunday services at 10:30am. Visit UnityCenterNorwalk.org for our monthly events calendar. See ad, page 9.

Support Group

THE AWARENESS PROJECT CO.

65 High Ridge Rd, Ste.102,Stamford

1:1 Support: 844-373-3840

Tinyurl.com/TheAwarenessProject

Have you ever been affected by targeted harassment and electronic monitoring.  We provide a safe, judgment free environment for survivors to rediscover their voice, share and find resources. Visit our website or email us ConnectWithOthertis@gmail.com for more information, dates and times of monthly support/conference call.

Transformative Healing

KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach, Shamanic Healer

203-820-3800

TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com TransformationCenterCT.com

Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real self-acceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, back cover.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot Virtual and In-Person Sessions 203-856-9566 • BethLeas.com

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, back cover.

Universal White Time Healing

BRADFORD W. TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT

92 North Summit St, Southington 860-830-5841

Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com

CrystalMusicHealing.com

Become certified in Universal White Time Healing! Bradford is one of the pioneering teachers and practitioners of this exclusive and incredible new global healing modality given to us by our ET allies for our healing, spiritual growth, and the awakening of humanity. With White Time there is no limit to how strong a healer you can become, or how high you can spiritually evolve. See ad, page 23.

Voice & Sound Coaching

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470 BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Improve your voice, expand your range, find your ‘goldilocks’ note using soul singing, improvisation and ‘one with sound’ exercises. Learn from a certified vocal yoga teacher, sound healer and experienced performer who has studied with Bobby Mcferrin, Silvia Nakkach and Heather Lyle. Some of her music can be found at WiseFishWorld.com. Online Zoom groups and one on one sessions. See ad, page 6.

Wellness Center

HAUTE HEALING OASIS

Jessica & Peter Chichester 792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 • Info@HauteHealingOasis.com HauteHealingOasis.com

HHO is your feel-great place! A 3,500-square-foot wellness spa and healing center featuring over a dozen wellness services in a caring feng shui inspired atmosphere. If you need relaxation, detoxification, body contouring or rehabilitation services, then you should check them out.

Yoga

THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative offers diverse yoga classes at The Angel Wing, our spiritual center next door. Classes include vinyasa, gentle, yin, kundalini, restorative (with tarot/sound immersion), yoga nidra, Yoga Alliance® 200hr Teacher Training, and workshops. Save 20% on Yoga Packages + enjoy a free first class! Our teachers believe yoga is for everyone— every body, every level. See ad, page 21.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer, and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 6.

203 TLC TRIBE TLC

Tribe TLC is your healthy living go-to resource network. We are a vibrant and growing community of 150+ holistic practitioners and wellness entrepreneurs meeting throughout CT and beyond since 1997. TLC Members are committed to living consciously and offer a wide variety of healthy lifestyle opportunities designed to help you live life well. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and events.

Career Coach/Kolbe Consultant

Thea Litsios, Certified Career Coach and Kolbe Consultant. Find the career or college major that is in alignment with your natural talents and strengths. Discover the joy of having a career that is right for you! Thealitsios.com • 203-693-1493

Life Coach

Diane Nicosia, MBA, ibalanceLLC Certified Coach & Reiki Master Teacher. Move forward toward your personal & business goals. In person or Zoom. NicosiaDiane@gmail.com ibalanceuthrive.com 203-858-5848

Transformation Coaching/Healing

Energy Healing/Meditation/Tarot

Beth Leas

30+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Disease Healing

Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing. 528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725

Ingrida Perri, Spirit In Training, LLC Restore balance, boost joy, and reach your goals with coaching, meditation and group classes. ingrida@SpiritInTraining.com SpiritInTraining.com 475-291-1693

Cave

Salt Cave of Darien Salt therapy, massage, meditation, yoga & more! 555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

Katie Augustyn, MA, CPC Transformation Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Spiritual Evolution Trainer, Energy Healer, TV Host TransformationCenterCT.com 203-820-3800 Integrative Life Coach/Meditation

Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, networking events, many marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00a.m.

Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place.

Salt