Dr. Howard Robins has been helping people using Ozone Therapy for over 34 years. He is considered to be the foremost clinical expert in North America on bio-oxidative therapies for the safe and effective treatment of diseases and conditions and is published in peer-reviewed medical journals. His clinic has performed over 420,000 treatments, more than any other clinic in the world.
Intravenous Ozone Therapy has successfully treated Herpes (HSV) I and II, Lyme Disease, HIV, Diabetes including diabetic ulcers and neuropathy, Arthritis, Shingles, skin infections and skin conditions, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, All auto-immune diseases and CRPS - just to name a few.
Call to find out if your medical problem can be helped.
Listen to Dr. Robins podcasts on www.voiceamerica.com and on his www.YouTube.com channel “Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins”.
e Toxin Destroyer
INTRAVENOUS OZONE THERAPY
DECEMBER 2025
INDEX
Honoring Every Holiday Heart
As the year comes to a close and the holiday season begins to sparkle around us, it can be easy to assume that everyone is swept up in joy. But for many, this time of year carries a more complex emotional landscape. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, lonely, or simply out of step with the festivities, please know that you are not alone—and there is no “right” way to feel during the holidays.
Our feature article on page 16 reminds us that joy is not something to manufacture on demand. Instead, it grows when we allow ourselves to be present with what’s real, soften our expectations, and create space for small, nourishing moments. A gentle breath, a quiet evening, or the simple act of acknowledging your own needs can open the door to a more grounded, authentic experience of the season.
Another way to reconnect with meaning—especially when joy feels elusive—is through giving. On page 11, we highlight several NYC and Long Island nonprofits that make it easy to extend warmth where it’s needed most. Whether it’s donating a coat through New York Cares, helping City Harvest feed families, supporting God’s Love We Deliver, contributing to The Bowery Mission, or empowering youth through Harlem Grown, each act of generosity becomes a thread of connection.
Long Islanders can also find meaningful ways to offer support—from Long Island Cares’ holiday food drive to Island Harvest’s turkey collections, John Theissen Children’s Foundation’s toy drive, the United Way’s wish list, and The INN’s vital services for those facing hunger and homelessness. These organizations remind us that even when our own hearts feel tender, we can still kindle warmth in the world.
Almix/DepositPhotos.com
So if this season feels heavy, let your gentleness be your guide. Honor whatever you’re feeling, and know that small moments of presence—and small acts of kindness—can create unexpected openings of light.
Wishing you peace, compassion, and genuine connection as we move into a new year.
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Batool F. Rizvi, D.D.S., P.C. strives to keep her patients smiling from the inside out. She believes in a holistic approach to health care. Her gentle touch, excellent listening skills and thorough explanations keep her patients educated, happy and healthy.
Dr. Rizvi offers her Dental services with an integrative and systemic philosophy in mind. She is one of the few doctors placing metal-free Zirconia Implants, and safely removing mercury fillings using the Huggins Protocol.
Dr. Rizvi offers a full range of Dental services, treating both adults and children. In association with Dr. Norman Bressack, Dr. Rizvi provides all of Dr. Bressack’s services as well as:
• Metal Free Braces – Clear Aligner Therapy
• Metal Free Zirconia Implant Placement
• SMART Certified Safe Mercury Removal
Norman Bressack, D.D.S., P.C.
has been dedicated to practicing healthy holistic dentistry for over 35 years. He is not only a mercury free dentist but a “mercury safe” dentist as well. Meaning that he uses safe removal protocols to ensure the protection of the patient, staff, environment and himself from exposure to mercury during the amalgam removal process.
Dr. Bressack’s mission is to treat his patients in the most healthy, caring, compassionate, and holistic way possible. Most importantly, he wants his patients to feel warm, welcome and happier when they leave than when they came in.
• Member of The International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology
• Member of the International Association of Mercury-free Dentists
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome The Illness That Doesn’t Exist
From the Desk of Dr. Howard Robins at The Healing Center in New York City…
The doctor says you’re not sick, “It’s just in your head!”
You went to the doctor, who did many tests. However, they came back with nothing unusual to report. Everything was ruled out, so the doctor said, “There’s nothing wrong with you.”
But it’s just not normal to be this tired! You’re so drained at night you now go to sleep early, almost every day. You sleep eight to 12 hours and still wake up tired—or even exhausted.
While almost everyone experiences fatigue from time to time, this is not like anything you’ve ever experienced before. You have chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that more than one million Americans suffer from it, with the numbers growing!
The diagnosis: does this sound like you?
Have you felt generally “unwell” for three months or longer? Do you have at least four of the following eight symptoms?
• Weakness and exhaustion, lasting more than 24 hours, following mental or physical activity
• Un-refreshing sleep
• Substantial impairment of short-term memory or concentration
• Muscle pain
• Pain in the joints, without swelling or redness
• Headaches of a new type, pattern or severity
• Tender or swollen armpit and/or neck lymph nodes
• Sore throat
More about the symptoms
What’s causing it?
While the CDC and doctors say the cause(s) are unknown, alternative physicians have directly linked it to the Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis), herpes 6 virus, candidiasis, Lyme disease (undiagnosed due to false negative tests) and cytomegalovirus. You could have one or even several of these infections causing the illness!
So, how can I fix it?
The “traditional” doctors most likely offered no real help. If they gave you pharmaceutical medicine, it didn’t help or maybe made things worse. Even the “alternative” doctors that gave you vitamins orally and intravenously, herbs, acupuncture, etc., only helped a little or for just a short time.
Please don’t give up hope! For those of you that are still suffering, the answer is Intravenous Ozone Therapy. You might be surprised to know that this proven, safe—but unusual—medical treatment has been used worldwide in more than 50 countries for many years (70) by over 45,000 physicians and therapists to successfully treat this and many other diseases and illnesses.
Believe it or not, medical ozone is a gas that’s made at the time of treatment (it can neither be stored, bottled or put in capsules).
Organizations like The Society for the advancement of Bioxidative Therapy and the International Association of Ozone in Healthcare and Dentistry are now organizing and teaching doctors in our country how to use this “miracle medicine” to help sufferers overcome this and other diseases and conditions that have been virtually untreatable.
So, you no longer have to suffer this debilitating illness!
Dr. Howard Robins
In addition to the symptoms above, the most common symptoms may be problems focusing or brain “cloudiness or fog”; generalized muscle pain (fibromyalgia); a feeling of malaise after almost any exertion; irritable bowel (diarrhea or constipation); depression or anxiety; chills and night sweats; or new food, odor or chemical sensitivities. Partnered Editorial. Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
More information about this amazing, safe and effective treatment is available at OzoneWithoutBorders.ngo and OzoneDoctor. net. Listen to Dr. Robins’ live and archived radio show on VoiceAmerica.com and the YouTube channel “Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins.” For more information, call 212581-0101 or email ozonedoctor@yahoo.com. Ask about online consultations. Treatments also available in Nassau County. See ad, page 3.
Celebrating Dr. Jillian Finker’s Alumni Recognition
Dr. Jillian Finker, ND, CNS, founder of Finker Wellness in Bellmore, has been honored by Stony Brook University with a feature in a special alumni video highlighting graduates who have made meaningful contributions in their fields. Finker was selected from more than 200,000 alumni from the university’s pre-medical program, which also includes a traditional medical school.
“It was a tremendous privilege to represent naturopathic doctors and to highlight the important role our field plays in the broader landscape of medicine,” says Finker.
In the video, she reflects on how her education laid the foundation for a 20-year career in naturopathic practice. “I would not have been able to go to naturopathic medical school, as well as have a thriving practice for two decades, if it weren’t for my foundation in the sciences here at Stony Brook University,” she says.
Finker sees this recognition as not only a personal milestone, but also a step forward for awareness of naturopathic medicine. “This opportunity helps raise visibility for the profession and showcases how Stony Brook alumni are contributing across diverse healthcare disciplines,” she adds.
Finker Wellness is located at 2308 Bellmore Ave. in Bellmore. For more information, call 516-765-3272 or visit DrFinker.com. See ad, page 15.
Aging with Strength and Grace
Why Movement is the Real Fountain of Youth
Mitali Vyas
For geriatric physical therapist Mitali Vyas, mindful movement is more than medicine—it’s a form of freedom. With 15 years of experience working in the homes of older adults, she helps clients reclaim strength, balance and confidence through purposeful routines. “Movement is not just a part of life, it is life,” says Vyas, who begins with simple kitchen sink exercises and builds toward functional strength training.
Aging doesn’t have to mean decline, she emphasizes. “Inactivity accelerates that decline far more than age itself.” From walking again without fear to attending long-missed family events, her patients often rediscover abilities they thought were gone.
Vyas also advocates for caregiver well-being. “I don’t just treat the patient, I meet the whole household,” she says, noting that caregiver fatigue can quietly erode both emotional and physical health. Small acts of self-care, she adds, can make a big difference.
Blending strength-building with mindfulness, Vyas encourages her clients to move with awareness, reconnect with nature, and celebrate even the most minor victories. “Progress doesn’t always mean more reps. Sometimes, it means feeling hopeful again.”
Mitali Vyas provides in-home care throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. To read a more in-depth article on the topic, visit Natural AwakeningsNY.com. To connect, email mitalivyas@gmail.com.
Jillian Finker (left) with Andrea Goldsmith, president of Stony Brook University
The Healing Power of Music
That was the spirit at this year’s Music Has Power Symposium & Awards, hosted by the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) on November 21 at The Glasshouse in New York City. The event brought together leaders in neuroscience, mental health, and the healing arts to explore how music supports emotional well-being and restores inner balance.
This year’s theme, “The Neuroscience of Music and Emotions,” invited attendees to discover how musical experiences can shift mood, reduce stress, and support mental health across the lifespan. Researchers shared compelling new insights into how rhythm, melody and memory interact within the brain, revealing why music can calm anxiety, unlock emotion, and reconnect people living with neurocognitive conditions to themselves and others.
A highlight of the event was the Music Has Power Award, presented to artist, producer and wellness advocate Maejor, who also closed the day with an immersive sound healing session. His work at the intersection of music, healing and mental health resonated deeply with attendees. tegrative ntal cialists
The Symposium reflects IMNF’s longstanding mission to advance the therapeutic use of music across healthcare settings and communities. “We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us,” shares Director of Programming, Justin Russo. “The conversations sparked this year will continue to shape how music helps heal mind, body and spirit.”
For more information, call 914-513-5292 or visit IMNF.org.
Dr. Concetta M. Tomaino, DA, LCAT, MT-BC, Executive Director/ Co-Founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function
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Maejor performing at the Music Has Power Symposium & Awards
Photo: Ken Brown
Heal Skin Naturally with Apricus Naturals
Apricus Naturals, a small-batch apothecary founded by Assunta and her partner in soapcrafting, Ken, is reviving the tradition of oldfashioned bar soap—crafted slowly, intentionally and with ingredients sourced from nature.
What began as a passion project quickly grew into a purpose-driven business. “We started making healthy soap for our kids and turned it into a business,” shares Assunta. “We use the funds to support animal rescue.” Their motto reflects that mission: “Healing your skin one bar at a time.”
Each bar is made using the cold-process method with organic oils and butters. Herbs are hand-picked and infused into the oils before being saponified with natural ingredients such as wine, coffee, beer or herbal teas. Every formula is designed to support different skin needs—from calming irritation to replenishing moisture and supporting overall skin health.
As more consumers move away from liquid soaps, Assunta says two driving reasons are plastic waste and the preservatives required for long shelf life. Traditional bar soap avoids both, offering an eco-friendly and non-toxic alternative while allowing the skin to absorb nourishing botanicals.
The name Apricus means “warmed by the sun,” reflecting the comforting, uplifting experience they hope each bar brings.
For more information, call 917-939-5066, email shopapricusnaturals@gmail.com of visit ApricusNaturals.com. See ad, page 17.
A Season of Giving
NYC Nonprofits Make Holiday Help Easy
As the holidays approach, several New York City nonprofits are offering impactful yet straightforward ways for locals to give back. From warming a neighbor to feeding a family, these organizations are making generosity accessible during the season of need.
New York Cares, the city’s largest volunteer network, is once again hosting its Annual Coat Drive, collecting new and gently used coats for distribution to those experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. The drive continues throughout December, with donation sites across all boroughs.
City Harvest is working to rescue surplus food and deliver it to families struggling with food insecurity. Meanwhile, God’s Love We Deliver is preparing medically tailored meals for people living with severe illness, offering both nutrition and compassion.
At The Bowery Mission, volunteers serve hot meals, distribute hygiene kits, and provide warm clothing to New Yorkers in crisis. For those looking to support youth, Harlem Grown offers programs that empower children through urban farming and healthy eating.
Visit each organization’s website for specific ways to contribute this season.
Long Island Nonprofits Lighting Warmth and Hope
As the holiday season unfolds on Long Island, local nonprofits are offering meaningful, tangible ways to support neighbors in need—whether it’s a hot holiday meal, a new toy for a child, or a basket of healthy food. Here are five standout organizations making a difference.
The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank continues its “Gather & Give: A Holiday Food Giving Drive,” rallying donors from October through December to fill plates across the region.
Island Harvest Food Bank is addressing seasonal hunger by inviting supporters to sponsor family meals and participate in its annual turkey drive—helping families gather around full tables this holiday season.
John Theissen Children’s Foundation hosts its annual toy drive across Long Island, collecting new, unwrapped gifts at community drop-off locations.
United Way of Long Island shares a Holiday Donations & Volunteers Wish List that includes coats, toys, food baskets and volunteer roles with its regional partner agencies.
The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network) serves Long Islanders facing hunger and homelessness through soup kitchens, emergency shelters and support services—and acts as a key holiday-season hub for giving.
Each of these nonprofits welcomes monetary gifts, in-kind donations and volunteers through the holidays. Visit each organization’s website for drop-off addresses, drive dates and wish-list details.
A Memoir of Awakening in Turbulent Times
Award-winning author, spiritual teacher and healer Dana Micucci traces her extraordinary evolution as a lightworker in her transcendent new memoir, The Years of Living Dangerously: Lessons from the Front Lines of a 21st-Century Lightworker.
Written during an era of profound planetary change, Micucci’s book blends ancient wisdom and personal revelation into an inspiring call for all people to remember who they truly are. Through vivid storytelling and practical spiritual tools, including meditations and energy activations, she guides readers to awaken their own innate power and light.
The Years of Living Dangerously (available on Amazon.com) takes readers beyond the familiar boundaries of the self and into the Great Mystery. From the sacred temples of Egypt to high-frequency power spots around the world, Micucci reveals the miracles, tests and transformations that shaped her journey. The book is both a personal odyssey and roadmap for navigating this time of intense planetary transformation. It invites readers to open their hearts to the evolutionary waves of change predicted by the ancients that are now unfolding across the planet.
Micucci’s other books include Sojourns of the Soul: One Woman’s Journey Around the World and Into Her Truth, a gold medal winner in the Nautilus Book Awards that chronicles her travels to many of the world’s most sacred sites, and the novel The Third Muse, a metaphysical, time-travel mystery celebrating the divine feminine wisdom of the Magdalene Order and the healing power of love. Micucci conducts transformational events and sacred journeys worldwide.
For more information, visit DanaMicucci.com.
Sacred Gifts from the Earth
with "The Herbalist" Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H. Make Nature·s Medicine Your Own
The Complete lnteilrative
Master Course
in Herbs. Essential Oils. Chakra and Crystal Healing Full Year Curriculum: December 2025 to November 2026
HEAL THYSELF ~ SELF PRESERVATION IS YOUR BIRTHRIGHT
RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOWto learn v arious alternative healing modalities.
♦ Experience plant medicine and essential oil formulary to make safe, effective formulas for the whole family.
♦ Discover Crystal healing principles for Chakra balancing.
♦ Engage in the healing systems from different cultures: African Healing System, Ayurveda and Chinese 5 Elements
All Classes are Virtual (and recorded), are 2 hours long, held the 1st & 3rd Saturdays from 10am-12n EST each month. The cost is $200 per month.
Call or email Zakiyyah to request the full curric ulum description, or to Register: theherbalist1750@gmai l.com♦ 1- 347- 407-4312 / NYC
Artificial Turf Manufacturer Seeks to Block Webinar
Led by Grassroots Environmental Education
Grassroots Environmental Education, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting public health and empowering communities through science-based advocacy, recently found itself at the center of a legal battle. Last January, Grassroots was served with a lawsuit from an artificial turf manufacturer aiming to stop their national webinar, “The Trouble With Turf.” This online event was designed to bring leading scientific experts together to discuss the growing evidence linking synthetic turf fields and their chemical components to environmental and public health concerns.
Rather than back down, Grassroots responded by filing its own lawsuit in New York under the state’s Anti-SLAPP law, which protects organizations and individuals from lawsuits intended to silence public discussion on important issues. The group stands firm that its presentations are rooted in peer-reviewed scientific research and credible reports. This legal action attracted national attention, even making the front page of The New York Times last June.
Grassroots Environmental Education continues its mission through the Partnership for Healthy Playing Surfaces, guided by Dr. Homero Harari of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. With rising rates of hormone disruption, childhood cancers, asthma, and developmental disabilities among children, Grassroots is committed to educating the public about how common chemicals in our environment may impact our health and advocating for safer, healthier communities.
Grassroots Environmental Education is a science-based environmental health non-profit. Fostering positive and lasting change in environmental health policy through science and advocacy. Based in Port Washington, NY. For more information Call 516-883-0087 or visit GrassRootsInfo.org.
Hope, Healing & Wellness for
Ayurveda Detox for Multiple Sclerosis Relief
A 2025 observational study in India, published in the International Journal of Medical and Public Health, investigated the effectiveness of Ayurveda, specifically Panchakarma therapy, in managing pain and improving the quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune neurological disease that inflames and damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Panchakarma involves cleansing procedures designed to detoxify the body and balance the three doshas (energies) in Ayurveda—vata, pitta and kapha
Over the span of four years, 120 female MS patients aged 19 to 50 received personalized Panchakarma treatments, including snehana (oil therapy), swedana (steam therapy), vamana (induced vomiting), virechana (purgation), basti (enema), nasya (nasal therapy) and rasayana (rejuvenation), alongside yoga and meditation. While 20 percent of the participants showed limited benefits, the remaining 80 percent experienced significant improvements in self-reported pain, mobility and overall well-being, allowing them to reduce their reliance on corticosteroids.
While observational studies lack control groups and cannot establish causal relationships, they can be useful for exploring associations. Further research with larger sample sizes and a control group is needed to confirm these findings.
Building Emotional Resilience in Cancer Survivors
Cancer survivors often experience emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression and fatigue. A study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated how mind-body practices could support the emotional recovery of nearly 600 cancer survivors with breast, prostate and gastrointestinal cancers, from early to advanced stages.
Participants were either randomly assigned or chose to join mindfulness-based cancer recovery (MBCR) or a tai chi/qigong (TCQ). Each program group was split into those that began their program immediately and a control group that was placed on a waitlist. The MBCR group met weekly for nine weeks and attended a six-hour weekend retreat between weeks six and seven. The TCQ group met weekly for 11 weeks and for a four-hour weekend retreat. Both groups were encouraged to practice daily at home for 30 to 45 minutes.
By the end of the study, both groups showed significant mood improvements compared to the waitlist control group, regardless of whether they chose their program or were randomly assigned. The MBCR group had the greatest reductions in tension, anger and fatigue, with increased energy. The TCQ group notably lowered depression and anger, and boosted vitality. Women benefited more from the MBCR program than men, while younger participants and those with advanced cancer cases responded more strongly to the TCQ program. The study provides strong evidence that gentle mind-body practices are powerful tools to support emotional healing of cancer survivors.
kali9 from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
December’s Duality
Embracing Joy and Melancholy
by Marlaina Donato
December can be a bittersweet paradox of festive celebrations and short, gloomy days filled with contrasting emotions. As the old year fades into the golden spark of a new beginning, we may find ourselves entangled in the beautiful complexity of being human. The twelfth month challenges us to accept the dichotomy of jubilation and melancholy, eagerness and regret. By acknowledging and making room for the harder emotions, we can fully embrace joy.
Just as the bare trees of the north stand boldly against the sky, December urges us to dive into self-honesty to discover the eternal flame deep within us, untouched by the world’s chaos. Celebrating the holy days of winter can be an internal, sacred journey.
Kindling the flames of empathy and goodwill is a form of self-care that ignites positive change for ourselves and others. Embodying
our light can be as simple as pausing before reacting in anger or allowing others to hold their own opinions, even when they differ from ours. Feeling more alive in our merriness often happens effortlessly when we choose to live and let live.
As winter arrives and sweet aromas fill the kitchen, December allows us to embrace all that is beautiful and nourishing. Should a ghost of wistfulness haunt a moment of glee, we can choose to embrace what is possible in the present moment between the past and the future. This month, be inspired to:
• Release the need to control outcomes and welcome spontaneity and flow.
• Embody joy without guilt, even when the world seems in turmoil.
• Allow feelings of grief while cherishing fond memories of lost loved ones.
• Invest in what brings lasting joy and meaning.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWood Smoke.com.
Liesl Clark from Pexels/CanvaPro
Exercises To Expand Our Gratitude
by Hannah Tytus
Gratitude is an important part of joy because it helps us savor life and recognize that much of our good fortune comes from others, including those that have made it possible for us to be ourselves.
Saying Thanks at Mealtime: According to the Dalai Lama in The Book of Joy, even the act of eating a vegetable dish can become a communal experience. Hold gratitude for the seed in the earth, the sunlight and rain that nurtured it, the hands that tended and harvested the plant, the people that transported it to the local market or restaurant, and those that prepared the meal or taught us to cook.
Writing Down the Blessings: This daily practice is suggested by Jennifer Joy Jiménez, founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & Well-Being Division. With eyes closed, recall three items from the day for which to be grateful—from a friend’s kindness to the bounty of a good meal or the pleasant aroma in the air. Record these items in a journal, aiming to add three new items each day.
Cultivating Joy
How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives
by Hannah Tytus
“Discovering more joy does not, I’m sorry to say, save us from the inevitability of hardship and heartbreak. In fact, we may cry more easily, but we will laugh more easily, too. Perhaps we are just more alive,” reflected the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu in The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World, where he shared wisdom alongside the Dalai Lama.
Joy invites us to be more alive. It surfaces through awareness, connection and acceptance of the present moment, exactly as it is. As winter days grow shorter and the year draws to a close, this is a wonderful time to explore what joy truly is, the things that block it and how it can be reclaimed. Ultimately, joy is not a reward for a perfect life, but a way of being that reminds us to embody our full humanity. Though sometimes fleeting, joy can be profoundly sustaining.
A Physical Experience
“Joy is much bigger than happiness,” asserted Tutu. “While happiness is often seen as being dependent on external circumstances, joy is not.” This mindset—rooted in both heart and spirit—aligns closely with the Dalai Lama’s vision that genuine fulfillment comes from recognizing the deep interconnectedness of all living beings. Joy is an embodied emotion that is distinct from happiness. Happiness is stable, evaluative and may reflect broader life satisfaction— a contentment with one’s career, finances, family, romantic relationships or personal fulfillment—while joy is experienced in the present moment. It is intense, yet fleeting.
In a study conducted in 2025 and published in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, researchers interviewed 14 adults about their experiences of joy. The findings explain joy as
Hamdi Kandi from Hamdi Kandi Studio/CanvaPro
a complex emotion shaped by individual, relational and cultural contexts. According to the research, joy is intense, transcendent and deeply felt—often arising spontaneously in response to meaningful experiences or connections.
In contrast, happiness encompasses a broader spectrum, exhibiting greater stability, and is associated with life satisfaction and contentment. Participants described joy as a somatic experience, identifying sensations such as “a rush of warmth and lightness throughout the body,” “electricity,” “a bubbling up,” and “tingling sensations,” accompanied by “the urge to move, smile and embrace others.” These visceral reactions often accompanied moments of intense connection, awe and accomplishment.
If joy is felt through the body, movement itself becomes a doorway to experience it more fully. This cultivation of joy is the cornerstone of Jennifer Joy Jiménez’s life’s work. A pioneer in integrative movement and founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & WellBeing Division, she developed TranscenDANCE, a conscious dance modality for all ages and mobility levels designed to improve mental, emotional and physical health through inspiring music, body positivity and free-form movement.
Conscious dance is any form of movement that emphasizes mindfulness, inner exploration and emotional release rather than performance or choreography. Although these transformative movement practices have existed for thousands of years, Jiménez laments that for many Americans, dance may be confined to weddings, occasional outings or fitness classes, leaving little room for the expressive and emotive daily practice that “allows our soul-self to move our human self.”
Jiménez asserts, “Just a few minutes of dancing releases the happy hormones, offering a DOSE [dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and
Dancing for Joy
by Hannah Tytus
Developed by Jennifer Joy Jiménez, TranscenDANCE is a conscious dancing modality that uses gentle movement to connect with the body, release stress and cultivate positive emotion. Here is an abridged practice for daily use.
Step 1: The Dance of Spirit (three minutes)
Begin by bringing awareness to the breath. Listen to the exhale, releasing air slowly and steadily. Root your feet, lift your heart and let your body flow gently, like a leaf in the wind or a cat stretching in the sun. This breathe-and-move practice reconnects you to the present moment and reminds you of your inner calm and strength.
Step 2: The Dance of Shift (three minutes)
Shake it out. Stress lives in the body as tension; release it like flicking water or shaking dust from a rug. Add sound and breath as you move. Each shake helps your nervous system reset, leaving you lighter, clearer and freer.
Step 3: The Dance of Joy (three minutes)
Put on a song that lifts your spirit. Let the body move however it wants—bounce, sway, smile. It’s not about performance; it’s about feeling alive. As gratitude rises from within, joy becomes the natural overflow.
endorphins] that shifts our mood better than any antidepressant.” Scientific evidence supports this assertion. A 2024 meta-analysis published in The BMJ analyzed 218 clinical trials, demonstrating that dance was more effective in alleviating depression symptoms than walking, yoga, strength training and even traditional antidepressants.
The Social Nexus
Joy thrives on connection. While it can arise in solitude, it naturally expands most effectively through relationships and shared
humanity. When individuals feel seen, supported and part of something larger than themselves, their sense of well-being deepens.
The 2024 World Happiness Report identifies social support as one of the strongest predictors of life satisfaction. Similarly, the Harvard Study of Adult Development—one of the longest-running longitudinal studies of human health—has shown that healthy, fulfilling relationships are the single greatest predictors of both longevity and life satisfaction.
This growing body of research underscores that social connection shapes health across our lifespan. Individuals that maintain meaningful relationships exhibit lower risks of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, infections, cognitive decline and depression compared to those that are lonely. When people share laughter, empathy or a sense of belonging, they exhibit improvements to their nervous system and immune function, as well as an expanded capacity to experience joy.
Isolation’s Impact
Accelerate Your Healing with Focused Energy.
Bill Robert, formerly practicing in Atlanta, is now available for remote Spiritual Light treatments anywhere, for any reason. In NY, Bill is hoping to specialize with students of dance, acting, music and other artists. helping remove creative and emotional blockages. For repeat students/clients, Bill is available for in person treatments by coming to you within 30 minutes of the West Village.
Bill has been working by donation only for over 12 years and is here to help you start the journey of healing.
Questions? Call Bill at 770-990-9191 or visit www.bill-robert.com
While connection nurtures joy, disconnection erodes it. In The Book of Joy, the Dalai Lama identified loneliness as one of the most significant obstacles to joy, emphasizing that it arises not from isolation itself, but from a mindset of separation. A person can live alone in the wilderness and still feel content, while another may feel lonely in a crowded room. Loneliness, he suggests, emerges when the heart closes—when anger, fear or stress obscure the ability to perceive warmth in others.
Many modern experiences reinforce this sense of separation. Chronic stress, fatigue, poverty and depression all constrict the emotional space needed for joy. Cultural ideals built around constant happiness add another layer of strain. Researchers describe how placing pressure on ourselves to be perpetually positive leads us to suppress authentic emotion, rather than cultivate genuine contentment. The Dalai Lama observed that persistent anxiety keeps the mind spinning in worry, unable to rest in presence.
Emotional avoidance further narrows the capacity for joy. According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, individuals that intentionally process difficult experiences report a 40 percent increase in life satisfaction. Gratitude research suggests the reason behind this phenomenon: Recognizing joy requires openness and receptivity. When individuals soften their defenses and allow life’s full range of emotion, they create space for joy to return.
Cultivating Gratitude
Adopting an attitude of gratitude is one of the best ways to cultivate joy. Recognized by the Dalai Lama as one of the “8 Pillars of Joy”, gratitude has been shown to enhance the capacity to perceive joy in everyday life. Gratitude increases joy, and joy, in turn, increases gratitude in an upward spiral of positive disposition. A 2018 study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology revealed that when the participants practiced gratitude regularly, it became part of their natural disposition. Participants that exhibited greater gratitude also experienced heightened levels of joy.
Jiménez notes that cultivating gratitude— and therefore joy—is not just a matter of responding to positive circumstances. “There is a difference between gratitude for and gratitude in. It’s easy to be grateful for positive windfalls like winning the lottery or receiving a nice gift. But when something challenging happens, such as a loved one receiving a serious medical diagnosis, how can we be grateful in that moment for the gift that lies in the wisdom of that situation?” Viewing challenging events as lessons with the potential for wisdom and healing helps us cultivate a more resilient kind of gratitude.
As Tutu and the Dalai Lama teach, joy is not the absence of struggle but the presence of heart. It lives in the body, grows through connection and deepens through gratitude. To reclaim it, we must soften the grip of perfection, release the myth of constant happiness and allow space for both laughter and tears.
Jiménez reminds us that joy is something to be practiced—not achieved—through movement, mindfulness and a willingness to feel. Gratitude becomes the bridge that turns awareness into aliveness, inviting us to notice what was there all along. When people pause long enough to be present, they discover that joy does not need to be sought. It simply needs to be welcomed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Herbs are Nature’s Medicine with Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H.
(Certified Herbalist)
THE HEART
Our Center of Consciousness
by Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H.
JOY and LOVE are emotions that come from the heart. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the energy of the heart is connected to the sun and fire. The Fire Element, which governs the heart and small intestines, is an energy of warmth and vitality. The heart—seen as our center of consciousness—has to do with our ability to rule, to understand and see clearly, and to serve compassionately; and its function in the body is to also give warmth to others.
EMBRACING JOY RELATES TO THE ENERGY OF CREATIVITY, INTUITION AND MOTION.
Sometimes we have difficulty finding or embracing love and joy. When our heart energy is balanced, we embrace lots of sun and fun, vigorous exercise, swimming and eating light. When not in balance, a person tends to retreat within, become overly serious, and feel afraid to play and connect. On the other hand, excessive joy or laughter, especially as inappropriate responses, are considered abnormal emotions, and these, as well as sadness, can create—or result from—an imbalance in the heart energy.
One of the best herbs for a healthy heart is hawthorn berries. Melissa essential oil is a powerful plant medicine to ease an aching or grieving heart.
Plant medicines that quicken circulation and break up obstructions in the body are “herbal stimulants,” which warm and stimulate the functional activity and energy in the body.
Blood cleansers also impact the efficiency of the circulatory system. A few of the great blood cleansing herbs are red clover, burdock root, chaparral, poke root and sorrel.
Taking cayenne can immediately increase circulation. Taken regularly (working up to a teaspoon three times a day), increases the power of the heart and corrects circulation problems. Heart valves can be toned up with the use of cayenne and heart tonics.
Conscious Living Solutions: There is an intricate relationship between our living habits and our body’s condition. Avoid mucus-forming foods and use herbs that act as a solvent by liquifying impurities—such as cayenne, garlic or sassafras. Limit the use of liquor and tobacco, avoid late hours and reduce fatigue and worry.
Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H., teaches virtual herbal education classes twice monthly. For more information, visit her blog: HerbsAreNaturesMedicine.blogspot.com; for a consultation call 347-407-4312 or email theherbalist1750@gmail.com. See ad, page 12.
The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping
Making the Most of the Human Touch
by Marlaina Donato
There is something special about stepping into the cozy warmth of a coffeehouse, sampling the latest offerings at the bakery or discovering a rare edition at the local bookshop. Our hometowns, like their people, have a unique spirit, and shopping locally during the holiday is a full-sensory delight. “Online shopping is convenient, but nothing beats an in-person interaction and seeing how happy a local business owner gets when you purchase something,” says Jacqueline De Leeuw, a fine artisan and owner of the thrift store Comfy Komodo, in Newton, New Jersey.
Despite Adobe Analytics reporting that American consumers spent $241.4 billion online during last year’s holidays, CapitalOne’s research shows that 45 percent still prefer in-store shopping. This preference is driven by convenience, easy product comparison and a more enjoyable experience. Local stores offer shorter lines, fewer crowds, meaningful options and a chance to reduce our carbon footprint. The American Independent Business Alliance states that for every $100 spent at an independent business, $50 or more remains in the local economy, boosting prosperity, jobs and donations to local organizations.
Finding Treasures With Friends
Discovering local treasures provides social nourishment and counteracts our
screen-dependent lifestyles. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social connection benefits longterm physical and mental health. “Talking with the folks who grow your food or make your gifts is almost extinct in our world. Farmers markets have revived that,” says Darlene Wolnik, senior project manager for the Farmers Market Coalition, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fulfilling our senses with artisanal breads, seasonal produce freshly harvested from local soil and maple syrup tapped from nearby trees reconnects us with real life.
From hand-poured candles to artful ornaments, small businesses offer unique finds. Shopping can extend beyond purchases to include meeting friends for lunch or enjoying seasonal treats. The holidays are the perfect excuse to indulge in local fair-trade chocolates, regional wines, craft beers or small-batch gourmet coffees. “Nothing is better than meeting with family or friends and seeing where the day takes you, exploring local shops,” muses De Leeuw.
Wolnik agrees, suggesting, “You can make a morning of it and shop the entire town or Main Street before or after your farmers market visit.” She recommends checking if vendors offer holiday crafts. “A lot of farmers knit, weave and do woodworking. Also, many markets use a wooden token system to
process card payments. If your market does that, buy tokens for friends, wrapped with a ribbon and a market flyer.”
Keeping It Local Year-Round
After the gifts and festivities, adopting inspiring habits can kickstart a new year. Choosing to shop locally more often positively impacts the environment because small businesses typically source their products regionally, reducing transit emissions.
Knowing the names of local servers, shopkeepers and baristas fosters a vibrant network of community engagement, enriching our everyday lives with meaning and a sense of belonging. “My favorite thing about supporting local shops is really connecting with the owners or the workers—finding out their story, how they started and what brought them here,” adds De Leeuw.
Creating monthly or weekly local shopping rituals can enhance family life or jazz-up date nights. Buying healthier bread at the bakery or herbal soap from a neighborhood artisan are simple ways to sustain the backyard economy while enjoying a slower, more relaxed pace and remaining open to the wonders along the way.
Marlaina Donato is an author, artist and composer. Connect at WildflowersAnd WoodSmoke.com.
The Gift of Healing
Finding Relief from Long COVID This Season
by Dr. David Pollack
This season, may your path be lit with hope—and may your body be supported on the journey back to health.
As the holidays approach, many of us look to the season with hope—and for those experiencing lingering post-COVID symptoms, that hope can feel especially urgent. Over the past few years at Pollack Wellness, my team and I have worked with countless individuals navigating what’s now widely known as long COVID. While some present with lingering respiratory issues, many more struggle with autoimmune, digestive, neurological, and skin-related concerns, along with other unusual and unexplained symptoms.
As we cared for more patients, we noticed patterns tied to when someone had COVID. For instance, many individuals infected in late 2021 into early 2022 developed severe digestive issues, often evolving into autoimmune conditions. In contrast, infections from earlier in 2021 were more
often linked with cardiovascular and skin symptoms. While not exhaustive, these trends offer insight into how long COVID may affect the body over time.
Although I continue to reflect on the deeper causes of these evolving conditions, my central mission remains: to help people heal. In many ways, what we’re seeing is not new—our bodies have always responded to certain viruses or traumatic events in unpredictable ways. Long COVID isn’t the virus itself, but rather the aftermath—the damage, immune responses, and reactivated infections left behind.
We’re seeing a rise in latent viruses being reactivated after COVID, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6), and even Lyme disease. These viruses may
have been dormant in the body for years, but COVID seems to create the conditions for them to resurface—often in more intense and persistent forms.
Treatment takes time and a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach. We combine antiviral herbal therapies, acupuncture, detoxification, enzyme therapy, emotional release work, bodywork and cold-laser therapies—all aimed at addressing both the infections and the damage they’ve caused. Compared to pre-COVID times, healing now often takes longer. For example, EBV cases that used to improve in four to six weeks may now take three months or more to shift meaningfully.
Still, we’ve seen real progress. Four years ago, we weren’t sure how people would respond. But I’m grateful to share that many continue getting better. They’re healing from rashes, digestive dysfunction, fertility issues and more—and they’re returning to vibrant, active lives.
So if you or a loved one is struggling with long COVID, know this: there is real hope. With persistence, patience and the right care, healing is possible.
Dr. David L. Pollack is the founder of Pollack Wellness, located at 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com. See ad, page 5.
F01photo/DepositPhotos.com
The Magic of Gourmet Salts
From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink
by Maya Whitman
Specialty salts can transform everyday foods. To elevate the experience, add bold chili salt to a hearty winter stew, smoked salt to popcorn or ruby-colored wine salt to chocolate truffles. Flavored finishing salts surprise the tastebuds in ordinary dishes like oatmeal, desserts or hot cocoa. Used mindfully, gourmet salt reduces the need for excessive sodium and invites us to savor the extraordinary.
“I think salt is amazing and brings out the best in food—all those hidden flavors,” says Craig Cormack, a gourmet salt chef in Cape Town, South Africa. His career as a food artisan advanced in 2009 when he embraced specialty salts. “My personal collection is sitting at 232 naturally occurring salts from around the world,” adds Cormack, who favors unrefined regional varieties, but also enjoys bold options such as smoked Danish Viking salt for its ancient, bonfire-infused qualities.
Salts vary in texture, flavor and nuance based on their source and harvesting techniques, such as solar evaporation or hand-raking. Many contain trace minerals, adding depth to dishes, and when consumed in moderation, sea salt may benefit the body compared to refined salt.
Salt’s Good Side
Salt has a bad reputation for causing high blood pressure and other health conditions, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that more than 70 percent of dietary sodium comes from prepared and packaged foods, not from salt added at
home. The FDA daily value for sodium is less than 2,300 milligrams per day, and using unrefined salts can be a healthier alternative to common table salt, which is demineralized and processed with anti-clumping agents. Celtic gray salt and other mineralrich varieties contain naturally occurring, trace heavy metals, but also minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium, which can help prevent the body from absorbing harmful metals like lead.
“We all need salt in moderation to live. The best way to ingest salt is to season your own food. Processed food has too much salt, and you can’t control your intake. Naturally made, mineral-rich salt is the best choice,” affirms Nancy Bruns, a seventh-generation salt maker at J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works, in Malden, West Virginia. She and her family produce rare, small-batch finishing salts harvested from the ancient Iapetus Ocean beneath the Appalachian Mountains.
Spanning the Salt Spectrum
Whether sourced from evaporated seawater (sea salt) or underground salt mines (rock salt), there is much to choose from. Sea salt comes in various colors, coarseness and complex flavors. Highly prized flake salt—fleur de sel from coastal France—is hand-harvested from evaporation ponds with clay bottoms and, with its delicate, paper-thin crystals, offers delicious nuances as a finishing salt. Celtic gray salt, sourced deeper within evaporation ponds, contains more moisture and minerals.
Himalayan pink salt, mined from salt beds formed from ancient seas approximately 600 million years ago, contains more than 80 minerals and has a rosy color due to the presence of iron oxide and magnesium. Black volcanic rock salt, also known as Himalayan black salt or kala namak, has a pungent, sulfuric quality that diminishes with heat during cooking and imparts an egg-like aroma and taste that can be useful in vegan recipes. The large, coarse grains of kosher salt traditionally used in Hebrew cuisine give food a robust, briny quality and satisfying texture.
Salt can be infused with herbs, spices, fruits and smoke from various woods to create a multitude of flavor qualities and moods. Bruns highlights her ramp-infused salt, which is combined with wild onions gathered during the Appalachian springtime. Charred oak from old bourbon barrels makes their smoked salt a favorite for grills and even chocolate desserts. Cormack spotlights the fine indulgence of Tartuflanghe brand truffle salt from Italy for an unforgettable mushroom risotto.
Bruns is grateful for the timeless spirit of salt. “I come to work on the same land where my ancestors made salt for over 150 years. I feel their presence, as if they are watching over my shoulder. That legacy and sense of stewardship is present every time I sprinkle salt on my food.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Langan/CanvaPro
Another Leap Forward in Dental Healing: SMILE BRIGHTER AND LIVE BETTER
Smiling isn’t just a sign of happiness—it’s a science-backed boost to your overall health. Each time you smile, your brain releases neuropeptides that reduce stress, along with powerful mood enhancers like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins. These natural chemicals relieve pain, elevate your mood, and promote a deep sense of well-being. Imagine unlocking that kind of power with something as simple as a smile. If you’re hiding yours, it may be time for a transformation.
Dr. Jeffrey Etess and his renowned team at Integrative Dental Specialists don’t just fix teeth—they help people reclaim their confidence, health and pride. Let them help you rediscover a smile that radiates vitality. The first step? It starts right here.
Composite Restorations:
Natural, Durable, Beautiful
Dental composites are a highly effective and cost-conscious solution for enhancing smiles affected by stains or worn-out restorations. These tooth-colored, BPA-free
glass composites are biocompatible and can be expertly shaped and bonded to restore both the appearance and function of your teeth.
Composites seamlessly blend with your natural enamel, masking discoloration and imperfections while preserving healthy tooth structure. Ideal for repairing chips, cracks, gaps or replacing old, discolored fillings, today’s advanced composites offer durability, aesthetic appeal, and immediate results. Whether you're correcting damage or refreshing your look, composite restorations provide a minimally invasive, affordable way to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Laminates (Porcelain Veneers): A Stunning Smile Upgrade
Dental laminates—also known as porcelain veneers—are a powerful cosmetic solution that can completely transform your smile by enhancing the shape, size, color and alignment of your teeth. These ultra-thin, stain-resistant ceramic shells are custom-designed to bond seamlessly to the front surface of your teeth, instantly concealing imperfections such as discoloration, chips, cracks or uneven spacing.
Dr. Jeffrey Etess is the ideal choice for your smile makeover. Known for his precision, artistry and patient-centered approach, he customizes every laminate case to harmonize with your facial features, dental structure, and unique aesthetic goals. His minimally invasive technique helps preserve your natural tooth structure while delivering stunning, authentic results—often in just a few visits.
Cutting-Edge Care in a Safe, State-of-the-Art Environment
At Integrative Dental Specialists, excellence isn’t just a standard—it’s a promise. The practice remains at the forefront of dental innovation, blending advanced
techniques with enhanced ultraviolet air and surface disinfection protocols to ensure one of the safest, healthiest clinical environments available today.
In a world where health is non-negotiable, there’s no room for compromise. If you’re seeking unrivaled dental care—care that is precise, predictable and grounded in the latest advancements—look no further.
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Etess today and experience the difference that world-class expertise and uncompromising safety can make for your smile.
Dr. Jeffrey Etess, DMD, NMD, IBDM, graduated in the top 10 percent of his class from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. An Ivy League–trained, certified endodontic specialist and implant surgeon, he also holds board certifications in naturopathic and integrative medicine and biomimetic cosmetic dentistry. For more than 28 years, he has provided a full spectrum of biological dentistry—including restorative, cosmetic, surgical, endodontic, pediatric, periodontal and implant care—at the highest level. For more information, visit idsli.com. See ad, page 10.
Korede Adenola /Pexels.com
Unwrapping the Past
Helping Kids Connect With Their Family Heritage
by Christina Connors
December unites families in ways few other times can, creating opportunities for children to explore their origins. Heritage is not just something to preserve under glass; it is alive, evolving and ready for kids to add their own chapter. This holiday season invites daughters and sons not only to observe family traditions, but to become joyful stewards of them. Through storytelling, cooking, crafting or creating TikTok-style recipe reels, children can connect with their roots in meaningful, playful and personal ways.
Lessons From Former Generations
Research from Emory University’s Family Narratives Lab, published in Psychotherapy in 2008, reveals that children that are familiar with their family history have better self-esteem, higher social competence, quality friendships, reduced anxiety and stress, and fewer behavioral problems. The study also highlights that families discussing challenging events in emotionally open ways help children cope better during difficult times.
“It is extremely grounding for children to feel connected to their past and family history and elders,” explains Denise Olivera Schira, a wellness educator and retired assistant superintendent for the New York City Department of Education. “It gives them a sense of stability
in the world and connection to something much bigger than themselves. It validates their identity and culture, provides context and relevance in their lives, and offers a purposeful and meaningful understanding of who they are and from where they come.”
Fun Ways To Promote Family Traditions
“Making family and cultural norms and discussions a part of everyday life experiences and interactions is an especially meaningful manner in which to engage children and elders seamlessly,” Schira explains, adding that opportunities for connection and sharing abound through storytelling, photos, craft projects, games and other engaging exchanges. Mealtime, especially during holidays, is Schira’s favorite time for worthwhile conversation, when elders share stories with humor while children listen intently and ask questions. These gatherings create spaces where family history flows organically, without pressure or formality.
Keep It Simple
“What I love about the way my family heritage and tradition was celebrated was its simplicity and connection to nature,” shares Christina Heike, MS, MEd, a certified clinical trauma specialist and international educator with a background in Ayurveda and naturopathic medicine. “Many projects don’t happen because they seem too time-consuming and complicated to fit into our busy lives. For our children, it’s important to do hands-on activities that show direct results to balance the high usage of technology in many other areas of their lives.”
Heike recalls her grandmother’s simple tradition of culturing milk on the windowsill in glass cups. “Make memories with simple things,” she advises. Her childhood included painting real eggs for Easter (blown empty to save the contents for scrambled eggs), picking berries straight from bushes, pressing autumn leaves for art projects and singing songs together on lantern walks after sunset.
Creating the Family Tapestry
Everyday moments can become memory-making traditions through intention and presence. Schira and Heike offer some suggestions to kickstart the family’s exploration of their heritage and create new traditions and memories:
• Initiate conversations at family mealtimes.
• Encourage elders to share stories with humor and relevant comparisons to present times.
• Create space for children to ask questions that spark their interest.
• Create a decorative plate adorned with natural finds from walks.
• Learn seasonal songs together.
To involve younger children in the conversation, prompt elder family members with simple questions such as:
• What was your favorite game to play when you were my age?
• What food did you love eating on holidays?
• Can you teach me a song or poem you learned as a kid?
• What’s something funny that happened during the holidays when you were a kid?
• If you could save only one recipe from your family, what would it be?
Some children love crafting, while others prefer making videos or digital slide shows. Some are naturally chatty; others need quieter ways to participate. “Depending on a child’s age, vary activities and include them as much as possible in the decision-making process,” Heike advises. The goal is to invite kids to participate on their terms, making heritage education a celebration of joy and identity rather than obligation.
As families gather around holiday tables with familiar dishes and new experiments alike, remember that heritage isn’t a history lesson; it is a living conversation between past and present. Every question, every story and every recipe becomes a thread in the family’s tapestry. Let the children see that they do not just inherit traditions; they also have the power to shape them.
Christina Connors is a writer, keynote singer and head of music and SEL integration for the Kind Mind Education Program. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
Meet & Greet Your True Self
Hosted by the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF)
Do you actually know who you are beyond all the roles you play? Parent. Partner. Professional. Problem-solver. But you, the real you, underneath it all? If you’ve ever wondered, “Who am I… and what am I really here to do?” this experience is your invitation to hear the answer finally.
Why this matters: Because when you reconnect with your true self, your decisions get clearer, your relationships feel easier, your confidence grows, and you stop second-guessing your path. Join me for an evening where you meet the most important voice in your life, your own. Clear. Honest. Powerful. Your True Self is waiting. Friday, December 5 7pm ET Online. Free. Register here: bit.ly/meetyou28
Sacred Healing 7 Herb Center
Complete Integrative Master Course
Join Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H., for a yearlong curriculum in Herbs, Essential Oils, Chakra & Crystal Healing. Learn to create safe and effective formulas, explore plant medicine and crystal healing, and study healing traditions from Ayurveda, African Healing, and the Chinese Five Elements.
December 2025 through November 2026
1st & 3rd Saturdays 10am–12pm EST
Virtual (all sessions recorded) $200/month
Contact: theherbalist1750@gmail.com 347-407-4312
To submit an event which you want to appear in BOTH - the next print issue and our online calendar - scan the QR code to the right or go to: NaturalAwakeningsNY. com and click on the arrow next to the SUBMISSION tab on top of the website, then select “Mark Your Calendar Submission”.
The Universe is 98% e nergy!
everything found in, above and under has its own dynamic energy!
Our entire body continually vibrates at a subtle level, moving energy and information through our connective tissues.
The L. i .F. e . s ys T em scans nearly 7,000 energy patterns. By identifying which energy vibrations are out of balance, the system can put them back into harmonic balance, allowing your body to return to a state of rest and healing.
Alexander Technique
JEAN MCCLELLAND, MMUS., MAMSAT
JeanMcClellandVoice.com
Private lessons and workshops: voice, breathing and Alexander Technique. Jean McClelland has more than 40 years’ experience as a performer and teacher. She has helped thousands of students free their bodies, strengthen their breathing, and uncover the natural beauty of their voices. See ad, page 7.
Animal Communicator
EVERYDAY KNOWINGS
Rev. Dr. Heather Shea heather@everydayknowings.com EverydayKnowings.com
Heather helps uncover the root cause of pet behavior, serving as a liaison between humans and animals. She provides insight into emotions, well-being, and life transitions through intuitive communication, fostering a deeper bond and mutual understanding.
Certification Course
THE CALM MONKEY
Mindfulness Facilitator Training & Certification Wendy@TheCalmMonkey.com TheCalmMonkey.com
Become a certified mindfulness facilitator through a self-paced online course with resources, peer support, and tools to bring mindfulness into workplaces and community settings.
Chiropractic
CENTER FOR THE ALIGNMENT OF BODY, MIND & SPIRIT
Dr. Gina Marino 2213A Wantagh Ave, Wantagh 516-221-3500 Align-Me.com
Dr. Marino utilizes a combination of gentle chiropractic spinal adjustments, Reiki and bodywork to reduce pain, lessen the effects of stress on your system, restore flexibility and ensure optimum vitality. See ad, page 13.
Clinical Nutrition
MDC NUTRITION & WELLNESS
Mabel Del Castillo Guccione, MS mabel@beautyandthegreens.com BeautyAndTheGreens.com
Guiding individuals to break free from dieting, reclaim confidence around food, and foster an abundance mindset. Learn to eat empowered, reconnect with your whole self through mindful eating, and adopt a balanced, sustainable approach to nutrition, unlocking a vibrant, joyful, and healthier version of yourself.
THE BIAMONTE CENTER
FOR CLINICAL NUTRITION
Michael Biamonte, CCN 2185 34th Ave, Ste 14D • Astoria, NY 866-240-8651
info@health-truth.com Health-Truth.com
Michael Biamonte has been in practice for over 30 years, is the author of “The Candida Chronicles” and is a World Recognized Candida elimination expert. His office has proprietary software developed for NASA that helps identify and treat all nutritional deficiencies. Offering both online and In-Person appointments.
Conscious Centers
AUM SHANTI BOOKSHOP 230 E 14th St, NYC 212-260-2866
AumShantiBookshop.com
Aum Shanti Bookshop is a community-oriented spiritual gallery providing offerings that inspire clarity, guidance and inspiration on one’s journey. They offer high-vibration, reikicharged and spiritually energized items such as a semi-precious gems and tumbled stones, one-of-a kind rare crystal specimens and clusters, beautifully hand-crafted jewelry made with love and empowering energy Join for tarot, psychic and astrology readings.
NAMASTE BOOKSHOP & HEALING CENTER
2 W 14th St, NYC 212-645-0141
NamasteBookshop.com
Namaste Bookshop and Healing Center offers a unique and large selection of Eastern and Western philosophy books, tarot cards, crystals, pendulums, calendars, wind chimes, incense, greeting cards, yoga accessories, meditation cushions, instructional and music CDs and DVDs, salt lamps, and 20 sections of books – including Spanish. The event space above the bookshop holds classes, workshops and book signings, and provides rooms for regular readers and practitioners.
Energy Healing
ANN KORONOWSKI
Cert. Soul Realignment Practitioner By online appointment/ Schenectady AnnEnergyHealer.com
Allow me to access your soul's divine blueprint through your Akashic Record to discover your true gifts and why your current patterns of choice may not be in alignment with your soul’s intentions. Learn actionable steps to create the life your soul intended. Other services, energy healer, psychic readings.
BILL ROBERT
Remote Lightworker
Based in Manhattan 770-990-9191
InmateHealing@gmail.com. Bill-Robert.com
Remote spiritual Lightwork offers emotional and creative healing, especially for artists. In-person sessions are available for returning clients near the West Village. See ad, page 18.
Health Food Store
WHOLE FOODS MARKET
8 Locations in Manhattan WholeFoodsMarket.com
Whole Foods Market is an Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products. We support local communities & agriculture, practice and advance environmental stewardship, support & rewards team member excellence, and encourage and educate on all aspects of healthy living. See ad, page 25.
Healthy Dining
CARAVAN OF DREAMS
405 E 6th St, NYC 212-254-1613
CaravanOfDreams.net
Caravan of Dreams is a vegan-organic restaurant in the East Village's heart. It is the oldest vegan restaurant in Manhattan, founded by Angel Moreno, a culinary leader and innovator, in 1991. Serving delicious appetizers, filling entrees, raw juices & smoothies, kosher wines, house-made cocktails, and much more, Caravan of Dreams is the perfect place to enjoy a healthy and filling meal in the city.
Herbs & Natural Medicine
SACRED HEALING 7 HERB CENTER with Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H. Since 1985 theherbalist1750@gmail.com 347-407-4312 • NYC
For over forty years, the Sacred Healing 7 Herb Center has offered naturopathic, experiential curricula that educate you about various alternative healing modalities so that you can heal yourself physically, emotionally, and energetically, restore your health, and raise your vitality. Available for private/group workshops, seminars, and other events in local NYC locations. See ad, page 12.
Holistic Dentistry
CARIODONTAL
A Place for Dental Wellness
Jonathan Richter DDS, FAGD
Specializing in Periodontics and Implantology Periodontal Prosthesis, and Fixed Prosthodontics
525 West End Ave, Suite 1G, NYC 212-874-2880 • Cariodontal.com
We welcome you to come in for a comprehensive exam of teeth, gums, early detection, and oral health problems. We offer the following services: holistic dental care, mercuryfree dentistry, TMJ disorder and treatment, treatment for sleep disorders, Invisalign and orthodontics, dental implant, sleep apnea. Payment plans available. See ad, back cover.
GOLDEN DENTAL WELLNESS
444 Community Dr, Ste 204, Manhasset
516-627-8400 • GoldenSmile.com
A practice that cares for you like family. The philosophy of our dental wellness center is a whole-body approach working closely with your healthcare practitioners that you already have a relationship with. The practice incorporates the teaching of Huggins, IOAMT, and much more. See ad, page 2.
HOLISTIC DENTAL & WELLNESS CENTER
1692 Newbridge Rd. N. Bellmore, NY
516-221-7447 • Holisticdds.com
Offering a full range of dental services, treating adults and children with an integrative and systemic philosophy. Dr. Rizvi earned her DDS from NYU and completed residencies in general dentistry at both the Kings County Hospital Center and Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center. See ad, page 7.
Holistic Dentistry
INTEGRATIVE DENTAL SPECIALISTS
Long Island: 245 Hillside Ave, Williston Park, NY • 516-253-1800
Manhattan: 120 E. 56th St • 212-845-9740 drjeff@idsli.com IntegrativeDentalNY.com
Dr. Jeff created Integrative Dental Specialist to provide the best comprehensive dental care today. There is always an emphasis on biocompatible and holistic dentistry to create a natural and beautiful smile you can be proud of. Dr. Jeff has achieved a highly professional, relaxed, caring, and pain-free environment for his patients, with sedation dentistry available if required. See ads, pages 10 and 23.
NATURE’S DENTAL
50 Broadway, Greenlawn • NY 11740 631-316-1816 • NaturesDental.net
What is made by nature is always going to be better than what is artificially made. This is why at Nature’s Dental the conservation of your natural tooth structure—the Biomimetic approach to dentistry—is at the core of our minimally invasive practice philosophy.
Holistic Education
OMEGA INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC STUDIES
150 Lake Drive Rhinebeck, NY 12572 800-944-1001 • eOmega.org
Open from May to October, we offer a wide variety of workshops and retreats, led by world-class teachers on our beautiful 250-acre campus, just 90 miles north of New York City. Can’t make it to Rhinebeck? Join us for a livestream.
269 East Main St, Ste F1 Smithtown, NY • 631-656-6313
825 East Gate Blvd, Garden City, NY • 516-640-5322 2 Bridge Ave, Ste 316, Red Bank, NJ • 732-741-2444 CleansingConceptsWorld.com
Our services include Colon Cleansing, Ionic Detox Foot Baths, BELD Lymphatic Drainage, Therapeutic Cupping, Infrared Sauna & Wellness Cocoon, FIT Body weight loss wraps, and Ear Candling. We also created our own line of digestive care products, including Detox Clay and Essential 4 Digestion Kit, that can be delivered right to your doorstep.
Integrative Coaching
GOOD MOOD INTEGRATIVE LLC
2248 Broadway # 1789, NY, NY 10024 917-245-5105
griselle.goodmood@gmail.com
Griselle Phillips, LCSW, helps clients overcome feeling stuck and overwhelmed using holistic methods. She offers single sessions or a 12week program. Prospective clients may schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss their needs and goals.
Marconics
MARCONICS
Robin Landau, Master Teacher 516-369-3653
robinjoylandau@gmail.com Marconics.com
Marconics is a full-spectrum multidimensional Ascension Energy Healing modality. Handed down by Spirit for the evolution of humanity, Marconics brings healing to the subtle and multidimensional body templates, harmonizing ego and Spirit and balancing the ascending physical, mental and emotional
Natural Foods
ABRAHAM’S NATURAL FOODS 9 Long Branch Ave., Long Branch, NJ 732-229-5799
AbrahamsHummos@gmail.com AbrahamsNatural.com
Our hummos boasts the industry’s lowest calories, fat, and sodium, without a drop of artificial preservatives. We use raw apple cider vinegar in every batch to get that wonderful zingy taste and for all the incredible health benefits. Unlike other companies, Abraham’s does not contain any added oils (ie: canola or soy). We only use healthy, nutritious tahini. find our Middle Eastern product line in Fairway Market, Whole Foods, and natural food stores.
Naturopathic Medicine
FINKER WELLNESS
Bellmore 516-765-3272 • DrFinker.com
Utilizing Naturopathic Medicine to help her patients feel better naturally. Many illnesses can be treated by nutrition, botanicals, and nutraceuticals. Dr. Finker provides personalized health care solutions for her patients. See ad, page 15.
POLLACK WELLNESS
66 Commack Rd, Commack NY 631-462-0801 • PollackWellness.com
Dr. David L Pollack specializes in functional nutrition which is the science of helping repair and restore the body naturally without the use of drugs and surgery. Many of his clients were frustrated with their past health care; conventional or holistic. Most seek help with their thyroid, weight loss, digestive disorders, hormone imbalances including infertility, menstrual & Low T. We accept those with or without diagnosis, complex and simple disorders. Most insurance policies accepted for many services. See ad, page 5.
Networking
HEALLIST.COM
Holistic practitioners use Heallist to create a free business page, add a menu of services, accept online bookings, process payments, and provide telehealing services. Join our first-of-its-kind network connecting healers across 100+ modalities, fostering personal connections and referrals.
Nutrition
OPTIMAL FRUITS & VEGGIE PLUS 939 Eighth Ave, Third Fl, Ste 307 New York, 646-320-8999
M4hf.com
Whole food supplements rich in phytonutrients are shown to support joint health, heart health, cognitive function, and overall vitality through natural antioxidant protection.
Dr. Banik is a board-certified Ophthalmologist specializing in Integrative and Functional Medicine. She helps prevent vision loss from common conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes, and cataracts, naturally, without drugs or surgeries. A holistic approach using eye-smart nutrition, botanicals, supplements, and lifestyle choices.
Ozone Therapy
DR. HOWARD ROBINS
The Healing Center
200 W 57th St, Ste 807, NYC 212-581-0101
drhowardrobins@gmail.com OzoneDoctor.net
If you have a disease or condition that you haven’t been able to get rid of, Ozone Therapy will most likely be the answer, even for people that have suffered for years and have lost all hope. If you are questioning if your condition can be treated, call or email Dr. Robins today. See ads, pages 3 and 8.
Pyschotherapy
PRESENT CENTERED THERAPIES
Michael Mongno, MFT, Ph.D, LP Upper West Side • 212-799-0001 drmongno@resentcenteredtherapies.com PresentCenteredTherapies.com
Michael Mongno MFT, Ph.D LP is a licensed psychoana lyst, marriage and family ther apist, and holistic counselor based in Manhattan. Commit ted to creating a real differ ence in the world, his “Real change in real time” describes the dynamic, effective synthesis of personal growth and spiritual transformation
Skin Care
MASSAGE FOR HEALTH AND FITNESS
Nigel Hunt, LMT New York, 646-329-8999 M4hf.com
Offers an Anti-Aging Face Lift Massage, blending acu pressure and massage to rejuvenate skin, boost circu lation, and reduce wrinkles naturally. (LMT license not listed)
Spiritual Center
ECKANKAR
The Path of Spiritual Freedom 212-221-1402 Eckankar-ny.org 4 West 43rd St. Ste 503, NY, NY 10036 Eckankar.org HearHU.org
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