Natural Awakenings Richmond June 2024

Boosting Nutrient Absorption

Demystifying Intravenous Therapies

How to Protect the Prostate Simple Measures for Men To Follow

Regina Hall Rudolph, Publisher

Dear Readers,

We dedicate our June issue of Natural Awakenings Richmond to the wellness of men, shine a spotlight on their unique health challenges and explore holistic approaches to achieving optimal well-being. We delve into the overlooked realm of men’s mental health and the stigma that can lead to silent suffering by discussing practical solutions and offering resources that can help. This is not only crucial for individual well-being, but for the health of our families and communities.

Nutritional health takes center stage as we explore intravenous nutritional therapies. This innovative approach provides a direct method to deliver essential vitamins and minerals, promoting energy, boosting the immune system and supporting overall health. It’s a fascinating look at how modern techniques can complement traditional wellness practices.

Maintaining muscle mass is so important as we age, because it is vital for maintaining independence, metabolic health and overall vitality. We offer insights and strategies to help men stay strong and active, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise, balanced nutrition and mindful lifestyle choices.

We also highlight preventative holistic practices for prostate health. Prostate cancer is a significant concern for men, and we review some natural and preventative measures that can extend a long and happy life.

At Natural Awakenings Richmond, we believe in empowering our readers with knowledge and practical tools for healthier living. This issue is filled with expert advice, inspiring stories and actionable tips tailored specifically for men’s health.

Thank you for being a part of our vibrant community. Here’s to celebrating men’s wellness and supporting each other on our paths to better health.

Warm regards,

Regina

GREATER RICHMOND EDITION

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© 2024 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.

Charity Fundraiser Run

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The Virginia Capital Fitness (VCF) inaugural amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease/Alzheimer fundraiser on June 23 will allow all levels of runners and walkers to participate live or virtually. James River High School and Robious Landing Park Trails will be the center hub for all runners and walkers.

VCF President Frankie Gerloff says, “Our ‘Halfway to Christmas’ theme will have much fun, such as Christmas music playing, donations boxes for the Salvation Army and Toys for Tots will be provided for gift collection. Whether you run or walk one, two or five, we’ll have markers and volunteers on the course to assist you in accomplishing the best distance for you.”

Location: 3700 James River Rd., Chesterfield. For more information, call 804-307-3405 or email FrankiegVCF@gmail.com.

Black Farmers Market Returns for Season Four

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The RVA Black Farmers Market, established in 2020, originated with a celebration of cultural togetherness and resilience. During a period of pandemic uncertainty, it transformed into a sanctuary for all Richmonders seeking solace during challenging times. This year’s market will be held in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood at the corner of Jackson and 2nd Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., every second and fourth Sunday.

The market honors Black farmers and home-growers, artisans and merchant vendors, showcasing a diverse array of goods such as aromatic spices, breads and baked goods, floral arrangements and candles designed to uplift spirits. Continuously expanding, the market actively seeks partnerships with and provides support to Black-owned farms.

Its vision is to cultivate an authentic market experience where customers may obtain the essentials they would find at any local grocery store. This commitment extends to supporting small businesses within the community such as sourcing honey from a local farmer or indulging in fresh juice from a merchant vendor. The Black Farmers Market fosters a sense of community, ensuring that every individual is nurtured and valued.

Shalom Farms Expands Mobile Market Operations

Nonprofit Shalom Farms, a food justice organization working for an equitable food system in Richmond, is using new vans to expand their work. Executive Director Änna Ibrahim says, “Our Mobile Market season launched for the year on April 30, and we’re delighted to bring affordable, fresh fruits and vegetables to more Richmonders this year. Last spring, our community raised over $100,000 in cash and in-kind donations!”

Midas of Richmond, First Presbyterian Church, Beirne Carter Foundation, Richmond Health Memorial Foundation, Nan Leake, Jon Shepherd and dozens of other community members contributed to purchase a refrigerated mobile market van, an additional van for Produce Rx deliveries and Community Kitchen Food Skills programs.

In 2023, they distributed more than 90,000 pounds of sustainably grown produce via Mobile Markets, and are on track to increase that by almost 50 percent. Shalom Farms staff and volunteers grow high-quality produce on two Certified Naturally Grown farms and distribute that produce throughout Richmond primarily through Mobile Markets in Northside, East End and Southside Richmond. They also provide produce to food pantries and prepared meal partners that address food insecurity in the city.

Location: 3900 W. Broad St., Richmond. For more information, call 804-220-0025 or visit ShalomFarms.org.

Amelia Lavender Festival

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Windsor Lavender Farm will host the annual Amelia Lavender Festival for three days of aromatic delights and family fun on June 14, 15 and 16. Highlights include live music, food and drink, a marketplace boasting more than 50 craft vendors and lavender in abundance.

Visitors are encouraged to embrace the essence of the farm, capturing memorable moments amidst the lavender fields and even harvesting their own fragrant bundles. Families can revel in an array of activities tailored for children from whimsical face painting to interacting with friendly creatures at the petting zoo.

Admission is $5 and up for adults and free for children under 10. Location: 3110 Burton Rd., Amelia Court House. For more information, call 804-318-0691 or visit WindsorLavenderFarm.com for tickets.

Third Annual Ram Dass Legacy Retreat in August

The Love Serve Remember Foundation (LSRF) is hosting the 2024 Ram Dass Legacy Summer Mountain Retreat III from August 15 to 19 at the Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, North Carolina. This year’s retreat, with the theme of “Harmony and the Sacred Feminine”, will explore the integration of Bhakti and Buddhist teachings.

Event host and executive director of the foundation, Raghu Markus, emphasizes, “This retreat offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into spiritual practices surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, fostering significant personal and communal growth.” Notable spiritual leaders including Krishna Das, Spring Washam, David Nichtern and Rima Rabbath will lead participants through a variety of sessions such as kirtan, guided meditations, yoga practices and live music performances by The Human Experience.

LSRF is dedicated to preserving and continuing the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba and Ram Dass through online courses, blog content, films, podcasts and collaborations with conscious artists and musicians.

To save $100 on the retreat, register at Tinyurl.com/RamDassDiscount. For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/RamDass2024.

Business Spotlight

Powerful Source of Potent Essentials

Alchemists, a locally owned, independent shop in Stony Point Village Shopping Center, provides books and tools for spiritual development, along with gifts to nurture, comfort and inspire. It was founded in 1992 by two individuals from Lenox, Massachusetts, and then purchased by Jane Hayden in 1993.

CEO Candy Smith says, “In truth, I see myself merely as the present steward. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I found myself in a significant pause in life following the conclusion of my 30-year career in the hospitality industry. This period of reflection allowed me to deeply consider my next move. I purchased Alchemists in November 2021 and relocated it to its original home here in Stony Point Village, where it all began.”

The store sells mindful gifts such as Woodstock wind chimes, Kitras glass orbs, Solmate socks, Jellycats, artisan-crafted jewelry and candles, locally sourced treasures, books, crystals, sound healing and divination tools, stones, incense, sage and many more intriguing treasures. Five intuitive readers provide a range of services from akashic records to animal communication and past-life regression.

“I’m grateful for our dedicated team of six sales associates, including three that came with the store and one with 12 years of experience!” says Smith. “They’re passionate

about serving others and representing Alchemists with excellence.” Alchemists is an oasis of peace and relaxation for the body, mind and spirit. As soon as you enter, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere of mindfulness and positivity.

Patrons can explore the collection of books or try out demo decks seated in a cozy book room, with ambient music. They are committed to selecting ethical and sustainable makers, vendors, and products. Crystals are handpicked from trusted sources to ensure quality and authenticity. The compassionate, well-informed team can assist in selecting the perfect gift or provide insights and guidance.

“Our clientele is truly remarkable, encompassing a diverse range of generations, genders and cultures,” says Smith. "Each day, we welcome individuals who express gratitude for our continued presence."

The incredible staff, both inherited and newly recruited, play an integral role in the success of Alchemists. June brings another round of reader and sales associate Rob Beckman’s three-part class, “Introduction to Shamanism,” and “A Solstice Gong Bath” led by Wendy Morgan, along with some new offerings.

Alchemists is located at 3080 Stony Point Rd., in Richmond. For more information, call 804320-9200 or visit AlchemistsRVA.com.

Owner, Candy Smith

New Recommendations for Concussion Treatment

The conventional treatment for concussions has been to rest in a dark room until symptoms go away. Research has consistently shown that strict rest is not beneficial and may significantly delay recovery, but the medical community has been slow to change its ways. Organizations like the Concussion Alliance are working to change that by educating patients and providers.

The Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport, a report prepared by an international panel of experts, recommends active rehabilitation. Immediately following a concussion, the report suggests continuing daily living activities, sleeping as needed and reducing screen time for 48 hours. Patients can return to light-intensity activity such as walking during the initial 24 to 48 hours following a concussion, provided the activity does not more-than-mildly exacerbate symptoms. After the first 48-hour period, the intensity of physical activity can be increased, so long as symptom exacerbation remains mild.

In a concussion, the brain jiggles and twists, causing the neurons—long, cordlike cells that transmit signals—to stretch and fray. During recovery, the brain reroutes signals around the damaged neurons. The healing process may result in exhaustion, headaches, feeling emotionally drained and having trouble performing simple tasks. Physical activity aids the healing process.

Healing Circle Counseling and Services, LLC offers high quality, heart centered mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. We provide outpatient therapy and psychiatric medication management from ages 3 through the lifespan.

804-924-7600

healingcirclecounseling.com

Familiar Smells Unlock Memories

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental disorder that affects an estimated 21 million adults in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health. For some, MDD may severely interfere with or limit a person’s ability to carry out life activities. People with depression also have trouble accessing memories.

JAMA Network Open recently published a study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine involving 32 patients with MDD, which sought to evaluate whether the participants could be prompted to recall a specific personal memory when exposed to an odor or word cues. The researchers rated levels of arousal, vividness, repetition and recall response time based on those memory clues. Participants recalled more specific personal memories when cued with odors than with words. Odor-cued memories were more vivid and arousing than word-cued memories. The results could have implications for managing MDD and possibly reducing depressive symptoms.

Antonio Diaz from Getty Images/ CanvaPro

New Limits on ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Drinking Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the first-ever national drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals”, which are used to make coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water. According to the EPA, “exposure to PFAS has been linked to deadly cancers, impacts to the liver and heart, and immune and developmental damage to infants and children.”

The rule is expected to reduce PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million people. Public water systems have three years to complete their initial testing for six PFAS categories, which will be paid for by a $1 billion dedicated federal fund. Where PFAS levels are found to exceed the new standards, public water systems must implement solutions within five years.

Microplastics in Placentas

A study led by researchers from the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center and published in Toxicological Sciences found nano- and microplastics (NMPs) in all 62 placenta samples they tested. Researchers identified the presence of rayon, polystyrene, polyethylene and other plastic particles. Polyethylene, which was present in 54 percent of the samples, is the most common plastic and is used in manufacturing water bottles, packing materials and bags. The research is important to evaluate the potential impacts of NMPs on adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Being a Successful Couple

University of Washington clinical psychologists and love researchers Drs. John and Julie Gottman have interviewed more than 3,000 couples and studied more than 40,000 couples undergoing couples therapy to understand how to make relationships and love last. Most successful couples were able to “make repairs” when they said or did the wrong thing. A repair is not an apology, grand gesture or love declaration, but rather a chance to pause and ask a partner a mundane question like, “Do you want a cup of coffee?” The question implies that their partner still exists for them.

The Gottmans also discovered that to successfully resolve a conflict, there should be five positive interactions for every negative interaction. A positive interaction includes a smile, touch or simply saying “I understand”, whereas a negative interaction would be an insult or expression of blame. They warn against using phrases like, “You never” and “You always”. They recommend being more specific by saying, “I’d love it if we went on more dates,” instead of “You never plan dates anymore.”

holwichaikawee from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Solving Mental Health Issues in Men

Finding Meaning in Turbulent Times

by Dr. Reef Karim

Many men struggle with mental health issues, often experiencing debilitating emotional turmoil, alone and in silence. Evidence of this suffering can be quantified in a number of ways.

An epidemic of “despair deaths” related to alcoholism, substance abuse and suicide is documented to be worse in men than women. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American males were almost four times more likely to commit suicide than women in 2021. The National Institutes of Health reports overdose mortality rates for opioids and stimulant drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine are two to three times greater in men. While men use drugs at higher rates than women, this alone does not explain the gap in overdose deaths.

Loneliness has become such a widespread problem that the U.S. Surgeon General recently called it an epidemic and the World Health Organization noted, “The effect of social isolation and loneliness on mortality is comparable to that of other wellestablished risk factors such as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.” A 2021 report by the Survey Center on American Life stated that since 1990, the number of men saying they have no close friends has jumped from 3 percent to 15 percent.

Men’s Health

and the Pandemic

COVID-19 incurred invisible costs such as increases in loneliness and mental

health strain. Because men generally tend to spend less time and energy cultivating meaningful social relationships but still require structure to thrive, the pandemic was particularly destructive to them.

Roughly one out of three men in America under the age of 30 reported having no sex in the last year (a 30-year low), which is an obstacle to building meaningful relationships and families. Men have become not only socially disconnected, but also more vulnerable to following dangerous groups, influencers and others with extreme messaging. Men that fail to attach to partners, communities or careers may grow increasingly resentful and act out with volatility and unrest. An African proverb says, “The young men who do not feel the warmth of the tribe will burn down the village to feel it.”

Origins and Causes

According to Gabor Maté, a Canadian physician, author and speaker on addiction, stress and childhood development, “The issue is men’s value has been defined in a very narrow sense, and when the power is taken away from people, people have a loss of agency and loss of control, belonging, meaning and value. Men have become deprived of a sense of meaning and belonging, and that’s a function of the culture we live in.”

Possible Solutions

Men’s Mental Health Advocacy: Shame is the biggest barrier, preventing men from seeking help and expressing vulnerability.

We need to talk and stop shaming them.

Male-Specific Mental Health Treatment: Men communicate differently, so counseling must address unexamined feelings. Research shows that physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression, so sports activities that draw men together such as softball, surfing or martial arts can offer a win-win situation.

Emotional Communication Training: Men need to develop their emotional communication skills, such as how to express themselves and share feelings through language, vulnerability and emotional expression, to deepen relationships. Men can be strong and competitive while also being authentic, vulnerable and emotionally connected.

Maté advises, “Men need to accept their vulnerability and work it through, and not reject it or be ashamed of it. And to let go of, ‘I can’t be self-reflective; I have to be tough,’ and that takes a lot of help and support. Men who come back from war will heal by accepting their vulnerability and spending time in support groups. Another thing we should do is show respect for the courage of those men who choose to explore their vulnerability.”

Embracing Universal Masculinity and Femininity: We must realize there is masculinity and femininity in all of us. Neither masculinity nor femininity is the problem—hatred, oppression and inequality of opportunity are the problems, no matter the

gender or ratio of masculine and feminine qualities within the individual.

Defining Healthy Masculinity: Masculine qualities are traditionally thought of as bravery, strength, courage, confidence, ambition, competitiveness, self-reliance and decisiveness. These standards are hard to live up to, so the question is how do we adapt healthy masculinity to be equipped with skills for success in changing times.

Offer Coaching Before Therapy: Because men may be more defensive, less open, less vulnerable and more disconnected from their feelings than women, many will respond to coaching over therapy, which can be a gateway to start thinking about deeper purpose and well-being. A personal development program geared specifically for men to build skills, share support and figure out how to excel in a changing world of technology and role-confusion may be helpful.

Encourage Inspiration and Purpose: Men need to find purpose by doing something meaningful that inspires them and makes them feel energized and appreciated. The more they feel helpless and stuck in survival mode, the more loneliness grows.

Psychologist Elizabeth Lombardo explains how a survival mentality doesn’t allow for meaningful and purposeful pursuit. “Perceived or real threats put you in survival mode, and when you’re in this mode, your limbic system takes over and you’re not thinking about purpose, connection or collaboration (things that can pull you out of this mode); you’re just trying to survive.”

Men’s health needs to become a movement that encourages males to be proud of their masculinity, but also add new skills in emotional communication and vulnerability to find purpose, improve their health and have the best chance for success in turbulent times.

Dr. Reef Karim is a humanistic psychiatrist and founder of Mad Genius and The Madness Movement. For more information, visit TheMadnessMovement.com and MadGeniusLife.com.

Conscious Eating

Prostate Protection

A Look at Holistic Cancer-Prevention Strategies

by Zak Logan

Most men don’t usually think about their prostate until they face an exam or experience symptoms such as pain or difficulties while urinating. These symptoms may be attributed to a benign enlargement of the gland, usually in older men, or to the presence of cancer cells. This understated reproductive player, which can be stimulated for sexual pleasure, is responsible for regulating urine flow, secreting semen and converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at puberty.

Prostatic cancer usually affects men over 65. African American and Caribbean men are at a higher risk. Although the American Cancer Society predicts almost 300,000 new cases this year, overhauling the diet and getting regular exercise can make a difference. “It’s never too early to begin taking care of

your prostate,” says Dennis Golden, a twotime cancer survivor and prostate-cancer coach from New Kent, Virginia.

Proactive Lifestyle Measures

“In terms of lifestyle, everything is accumulative. If you put in junk, your body doesn’t know what to do with it and stores all those chemicals that don’t belong there, and it all eventually catches up with you someday. Read labels. If you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it,” says Golden, who went back to basics when he faced his frightening cancer diagnosis.

According to Jon Lanman, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Bend, Oregon, “In health care, we talk a lot about lifestyle change, and the reality is that lifestyle change is hard, and it takes time.” He advises tossing aside

Danijela Maksimovic/Shutterstock

perfection and expecting slip-ups while committing to small changes that add up.

For Golden, eliminating restaurant food, excessive sodium and alcohol has been key. A fan of quick and easy meals, he relies on pan cooking for healthy, delicious fare with plenty of steamed veggies. “There’s no reason to grab a burger or to eat out when you can have a meal finished in 25 minutes. I veered away from beef and incorporated more chicken and fish like salmon and fresh trout,” he explains, adding that biking also made a difference. Now 81, he pedals 25 miles several times a week.

Dietary Recommendations

Lanman notes, “There is no single miracle food, but I’d recommend limiting sugars and processed carbohydrates, as well as processed meats and red meats.” To amp up nutrients, he spotlights the Mediterranean and DASH diets that accentuate fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Lanman also recommends lycopene, a compound found in tomatoes, beets, radishes, cherries and pink grapefruit, which has shown promise in the treatment and prevention of prostate cancer.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) advocates cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, bok choy, kale and Brussels sprouts. Packed with the phytochemical glucoraphanin that targets cancer cells, broccoli is a heavy hitter, as well.

Recent research points to a number of nutritional guidelines. A 2021 study published in European Journal of Public Health noted that nitrites as food additives were positively associated with prostate cancer risk. A 2022

study published in Frontiers in Nutrition also found a higher risk of the disease in those consuming red and processed meats.

In a 2022 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers reported a lower risk of aggressive forms of prostate cancer in men under 65 that followed a diet rich in plant-based foods. After tracking men in a study for six years, a team of Harvard University scientists found that selenium supplementation was linked to a 65 percent lower occurrence of advanced prostate cancer, but it was contraindicated for individuals with high systemic levels of the mineral. Additional studies are underway to determine suggested dosages, but the researchers of this study suggested “a healthful diet that will provide good amounts of the mineral.”

Rethink Alcohol

Both Lanman and Golden recommend eliminating alcohol altogether. While research on the correlation between alcohol consumption and prostate cancer is inconclusive, a 2022 meta-analysis published in the journal Biomolecules suggests that alcohol intake and the development of prostatic cancer can create the perfect storm when poor diet, folate and fiber deficiencies, advanced age, race, smoking, obesity, genetics, stress and other factors are also present.

Mood Regulation

According to the PCF, extreme stress can have a cumulative effect on the body, allowing prostate cancer to take root and grow. This is because the stress response can activate certain hormones that make it easier for tumors to grow and spread, while also negatively impacting the immune system.

To relieve stress and learn better coping skills, PCF suggests adopting relaxation and meditation practices, counseling, group therapy and exercise. For Golden, better health is a mindset. He endorses journaling and having good expectations daily. “Focus on the positives,” he says.

Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living and getting back to basics.

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Cast Iron Mediterranean Chicken With Capers

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs

1 28-oz can of organic, diced, fire-roasted tomatoes

¼ cup capers (4 Tbsp)

¼ tsp Himalayan salt

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

2 medium-sized, fresh garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced

1 Tbsp organic, extra-virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 400° F. Place cast iron pan on a medium-high stove and sauté garlic until brown. Add chicken and pour fire-roasted tomatoes evenly over it. Add capers. Sprinkle salt, oregano and basil over chicken and tomatoes. Place uncovered cast iron pan into the oven for approximately 35 to 40 minutes or until chicken is tender. If desired, serve over garbanzo wheat-free pasta.

Recipe courtesy of frequent contributor Marlaina Donato.

White Quinoa Salad With Blueberries

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1¾ cups water

1 cup organic white quinoa

½ cup fresh or frozen organic blueberries

¼ cup finely chopped red or white onion

¼ cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley

1 Tbsp aged balsamic vinegar

⅓ tsp Himalayan pink salt

Organic, extra-virgin olive oil

Combine quinoa, water and salt in a medium pot. Bring to a boil; cover and reduce heat; and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove covered pot from heat and let sit for 10 minutes before removing lid and fluffing the grains with a fork.

Add vinegar, blueberries, parsley and onion; mix gently. Serve quinoa salad warm or cold with a drizzle of olive oil.

Recipe courtesy of frequent contributor Marlaina Donato.

Cucumber Apple Salad With Cilantro

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

2 medium-sized cucumbers or 1 large English cucumber, sliced thin, peel optional

2 medium or large apples of choice, chopped into bitesized pieces

¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

½ lemon, juiced

½ lime, juiced

¼ tsp Himalayan salt

1 Tbsp organic, extra-virgin olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Gently toss and serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy of frequent contributor Marlaina Donato. June 2024

Liesel_Fuchs

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Jeffrey R. Gladden

on Cracking the Code of Longevity

by Sandra Yeyati

Jeffrey R. Gladden is the founder and medical director of Gladden Longevity, in Dallas, Texas, a clinic that helps people “live young for a lifetime”. He is the author of 100 Is the New 30, which provides an easy-to-understand blueprint, identifying four target areas to be optimized: life energy; longevity, which includes the hallmarks of aging; health; and performance.

A board-certified cardiologist, Gladden earned his medical degree with multiple honors from Temple University and practiced for 25 years as an interventional cardiologist. He co-founded the Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital, in Plano, as well as several cardiac catheterization programs around Dallas.

What is longevity medicine?

The best way to understand longevity medicine is to put it in context with what we currently are familiar with. Traditional medicine is called health care, but it’s actually reactionary, sick care that focuses on relieving symptoms with a sprinkle of preventive advice but offers no real health optimization. Functional medicine and integrative medicine look at the root cause of an issue to create a more complete and durable answer.

Longevity medicine, however, goes after the drivers of aging. So far, we’ve identified 16 hallmarks of aging that contribute to and accelerate the aging process. This is how we’re going to enable people to live young for a lifetime, thereby creating the most durable, most comprehensive answer to the symptoms they are experiencing and the aging process itself.

Is longevity medicine out of reach for people with limited resources?

When people first come to us to make them young again, we do extensive genetic testing and measure many biological ages for them. By knowing what cards they’re holding and where they are in the game, we know where to start. And then, many of the reversaltype interventions like stem cells, young plasma, peptides or custom-made medications may be important but require a financial investment.

The flip side is that there are many things people can do that are not costly. If you’re smoking, drinking or eating excessive amounts of processed foods, stop doing that. If you’re not exercising, start exercising every day. The other thing that’s massively important and doesn’t cost much, if anything at all, is working on your mindset.

People stop asking the questions that drive progress, and they get married to their current answers. They think: I’m going to get older, retire at 65, take Social Security, play golf, visit my grandkids, travel and then wind down. This picture of the future is make-believe, quite honestly, even though society reinforces it. The beauty of being human is that you can create your own reality. What if you paint a different picture by asking, “What does it take to make my life better?” or “How can we make 100 the new 30?”

What is the mental health impact on longevity?

So many of us have been plagued with anxiety and depression, and all of us have had traumatic experiences. Because of the way our brains are wired, we live in reaction to that trauma, either consciously or unconsciously. The problem is that if we are confronted with something again, it triggers a stress response or maybe a post-traumatic response that we’re carrying with us from the trauma that we incurred, and now our nervous system is on high alert. Our stress levels are on high alert. Our cortisol, insulin, adrenaline and dopamine and the whole sympathetic nervous

Courtesy of Dr. Jeffrey R. Gladden

system is activated in a way that is accelerating disease, aging and decline.

You can never live young for a lifetime if you’re carrying all that burden. When you solve the mental health piece, you crack the code of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and all the self-sabotaging behaviors.

What is your personal goal in your longevity quest?

The target I’ve settled on right now is when I’m 100, I want to have a 30-year-old body and a 300-year-old mind, where I’ve solved, healed and transcended all of the mental health issues and past trauma, enabling me to have more wisdom and empathy, and freeing me to bring all of my gifts forward—my enthusiasm, artistry, intellect, compassion and my ability to help others and make the world a better place. If you have a clear target like that, all of a sudden you have a longevity mindset. You can never crack the code on aging if you don’t have a longevity mindset.

How do we stay the course and avoid falling back to old, unhealthy habits?

I think you have to be motivated by joy. If you’re motivated by fear you will definitely tap out. It has to come from this understanding that for me to bring all of my gifts to bear for the planet or for me to have my best life, I need to step into this concept of having a young body and a very mature, expanded, spiritual, intellectual, emotionally replete mind. That’s my target, and there’s so much joy in doing that, so every day I’m motivated by joy, not by obligation, and I think that’s what makes it sustainable.

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit naturalawakenings.com/2024/05/30/ 490204/jeffrey-r-gladdenon-cracking-the-code-oflongevity or scan the QR code.

Season of the Sacred Masculine

by Marlaina Donato

Zvonimir Atletic/Shutterstock

As we approach midsummer and listen closely, an ancient song can be heard within the verdant heart of the season. The sun is at its peak, working in cosmic collaboration with our fertile Earth, and we find ourselves deep in sustenance with abundant crops and gardens, longshadowed afternoons and carefree barefoot hours. Our ancient ancestors held lavish celebrations on the summer solstice that included greeting the sunrise and lighting bonfires after dark.

During this sun-dappled hour, it is easy to evoke the leafy-crowned magic of the Green Man mythos and honor the concept of the sacred masculine. The activating principle of yang within the feminine receptive yin, the divine masculine runs through many cultures—from the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva embodying cosmic creation, preservation and destruction to

the Aboriginal Rainbow Serpent, the powerful, symbolic essence of creation, transformation and renewal.

The sacred masculine can also be glimpsed in our everyday heroes—the men in our lives. Whenever a father passes on the legacy of compassion to his children, protects his own or creates something from nothing, he is mirroring this multicultural, timeless energy. In its purity, the animating masculine force is free of aggression, capable of deep creativity and resplendent with the spark of new ideas. He is a passionate and gentle lover, a strong guardian and an inspired innovator. Saint Francis of Assisi, the Italian Catholic friar, mystic and poet, embodied the sacred masculine, seeing God in the human flesh of our neighbors. His timeless Canticle of the Sun acknowledged the life force and consciousness of the heavenly bodies, the animals and the elements— earth, air, fire and water.

Like the divine feminine, the sacred masculine is, in essence, an archetype that exists in all people, regardless of gender. Taking positive, humble action when needed, healing our father wounds, tapping into the fire of our innate creativity and uniting logic with intuition are all ways to awaken this vital energy that is sorely needed in the world today.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Building Quality Muscle

How Diet and Resistance Training Can Help

by JJ Virgin, CNS, CHFS

Muscles act like metabolic Spanx, holding everything in the body tighter, supporting joints to prevent injuries, keeping bones strong and helping the immune system remain resilient to infection. Skeletal muscle acts as an endocrine-producing organ, supporting a healthy metabolism and balancing hormones. Strong, healthy muscles help us feel better, move more easily and live more powerfully.

Once someone crosses the threshold into their 40s, there is a natural decline in muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia. Adults can lose 3 to 8 percent of muscle mass per decade after turning 30, with losses accelerating after 60. Preventing this decline and supporting quality muscle is key. “Muscle can be stimulated largely in two ways: first, through dietary protein, and second, through resistance,” explains Gabrielle Lyon, a board-certified family physician and author of Forever Strong.

Optimal Protein Consumption

The building blocks of protein fall into two categories: essential amino acids, which are necessary nutrients that the body cannot make on its own and must be acquired through dietary intake; and non-essential amino acids, which can be synthesized by the body from carbohydrates and other dietary sources. To promote muscle recovery and development, it is important to consume protein that contains all nine essential amino acids in optimal amounts throughout the day.

More than half of older adults are not getting enough protein, and sarcopenia may increase their need for it. To offset age-related decline, every meal should contain a minimum of 30 grams of protein. Active people, including those that do resistance training, should target one gram of protein per pound of their ideal body weight daily.

The best animal proteins that offer all nine essential amino acids in the right balance include pasture-raised poultry and eggs, wild-caught seafood and grass-fed beef. Plant proteins often lack one or more crucial amino acid, so vegans or vegetarians should eat a minimum of 40 grams of protein per meal to reach an adequate intake.

Breaking an overnight fast with a proteinpacked breakfast jumpstarts metabolism

and provides more sustained energy during the day, fueling morning activities and preventing mid-morning crashes. A proteinrich dinner supports muscle recovery and helps the body rebuild during sleep.

Benefits of Resistance Training

“The most important type of exercise is resistance training as you get older, because you need to build muscle," says Mark Hyman, a functional-medicine doctor whose latest book, Young Forever, explores the secrets to longevity. “Without muscle, you become frail and dysfunctional.” Building muscle can improve the capacity for everyday activities, diminish the likelihood of chronic illnesses and decrease the risk of falls and frailty. Resistance training also improves bone density, metabolic health and overall quality of life.

Resistance-Training Tips

• Target multiple muscle groups simultaneously with compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, rows and overhead presses.

• Focus on lifting the maximum weight manageable while maintaining proper form to avoid injury.

• Gradually increase the resistance or intensity of exercises over time to continually challenge the muscles.

• Aim for two to four weekly resistancetraining sessions. Consistency and pa tience are the foundations for lasting strength and muscle-tone improvements.

• Engage all key muscle groups. For the upper body, try bench presses, overhead presses, dumbbell chest presses, pushups, pull-ups, bent-over rows, seated rows and lat pulldowns. To work the hips and thighs, try squats, lunges, deadlifts and step-ups. For core strength, consider planks, Russian twists and bicycle crunches.

muscle group, doing two to four sets for each exercise. Between sets, take 90- to 120-second rest breaks. Aim for eight to 15 repetitions per set.

Rest and Recovery

To prevent injuries or burnout, rest is crucial, allowing muscles to repair and rebuild. Give each muscle group 48 to 72 hours before targeting it again. It is normal to feel sore after a workout, but be mindful of the difference between soreness and pain. Soreness feels like mild, diffuse discomfort or stiffness and is a normal response to unfamiliar or intense exercise. Sharp, intense or persistent pain, particularly around a joint, indicates potential injury or overstrain.

On rest days, incorporate low-intensity, active-recovery activities like walking, yoga or swimming; try foam rolling, stretching and mobility exercises to improve flexibility and circulation; and consider meditation for mental-health benefits. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep, which promotes tissue repair and growth-hormone release.

Monitoring Progress

• To optimize strategies and identify areas for improvement, regularly measure the

circumference of the biceps, chest, thighs, waist and hips.

• Keep track of the amount of weight, repetitions, sets and intensity of every exercise session.

• Track muscle mass and body-fat shifts with a body-composition scale and take consistent photos from various angles to document muscle definition and physique evolution.

Staying the Course

• Adjustments to diet and training programs may be necessary based on changing goals or feedback from tracking methods.

• If progress stalls, adjust training variables such as workout intensity or frequency.

• Use fluctuations in muscle mass or body fat to refine protein intake or overall macronutrient ratios.

JJ Virgin is a certified nutrition specialist, certified fitness instructor and bestselling author of The Virgin Diet, JJ Virgin’s Sugar Impact Diet and their companion cookbooks. Learn more at JJVirgin.com.

• Perform two to four exercises for each

804-377-2222 info@healthinsyncs.com healthinsyncs.com

Green-Home Design Tips

Healthy Options for a Sustainable Sanctuary

by Brian Johnson, BBEC, EMRS, BBNC

Americans spend about 90 percent of their lives indoors, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Building and remodeling our homes to be ecofriendly, non-toxic and environmentally safe is more important than ever. Here are a few considerations.

Eco-Safe Planning

Previous industrial activity, legal and illegal dumping of waste material, and even past farming that relied on pesticides, herbicides and fungicides need to be identified before selecting a building site. Developers also need to look at surrounding properties to evaluate the sources of groundwater and locate hazards like electric substations, high-tension power lines and cellular towers. Naturally occurring toxins such as radon should also be considered before developing a site.

Ambient Quality

Homes must be as airtight as possible to ensure efficient temperature regulation, prevent pests, keep out pollutants and withstand varying weather conditions, while also having breathable systems and allowing for proper ventilation. This is achieved by incorporating passive airflow through vents and windows, as well as active systems like air-handling systems that draw in filtered, fresh air and circulate it throughout the home.

Natural building materials such as wood, bamboo, clay, concrete and earth are breathable and produce negative ions that are found in outdoor environments like oceans, forests and waterfalls. A research review in Environmental Science and Pollution Research found that exposure to negative air ions may have a positive effect on amino acid metabolism, which manifests as reduced inflammation and anti-oxidation. Further, an International Journal of Molecular Sciences article noted that negative air ions are widely used in air cleaning and may relieve dust and mold spore allergies. Good ventilation assists in clearing out positively charged ions.

Toxic mold is a common issue in homes. It is essential to inspect and test for mold during construction and before installing insulation and closing walls. To minimize the likelihood of mold growth, ensure adequate ventilation and properly install equipment, such as air conditioning units, which may contribute to condensation.

Acoustic protection from noise and vibration adds to the overall quality of living spaces. Thoughtful building practices incorporate materials that help block, absorb, mitigate or reduce noise and vibration. These include soundproofing, insulated walls, low emissivity (Low-E) dual-glazed windows, and plaster- and clay-based paint systems.

Environmental Responsibility

Locally sourced materials like clay, limebased mortars and natural stone reduce a home’s carbon footprint by minimizing the need for extensive transportation. Avoid engineered wood, plastic, spray foams, metal, glues and adhesives that contain polymers and formaldehyde, which off-gas toxic chemicals. Some concrete fly ash contains naturally occurring uranium and thorium that have the potential to release radiation.

Incorporate energy-smart technology and appliances, and utilize renewable energy sources like solar power and geothermal climate systems. Select sustainably harvested timber, recycled steel, and products and appliances certified by the Cradle to Cradle

Products Innovation Institute. Choose materials and appliances with lower environmental life-cycle costs, prioritizing options that are environmentally friendly in their production and have minimal negative effects when reaching the end of their useful life.

Green homes include water-saving technologies such as rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow toilets and showerheads. They also include water purification systems to reduce the occupant’s exposure to lead, heavy metals, chlorine, and other chemicals and pollutants.

Electrical Systems

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are invisible areas of energy associated with the use of electrical power, as well as natural and manmade types of light. EMF exposure can originate from electrical fields generated by wiring, radio frequencies from cellular and wireless devices, and micro-electrical surge pollution from transformers, motors, power supplies or solar equipment. The International Agency for Research on Cancer evaluated cancer risks from radiofrequency radiation (RFR) and classified it as a possible human carcinogen. A paper in Environmental Research concluded that “there is substantial scientific evidence that RFR causes cancer, endocrinological, neurological and other adverse health effects.” Accounting for these factors in a green build identifies areas to address for mitigation.

Prioritizing natural light and using colors in harmony with nature not only promote sustainability, but also create aesthetically pleasing spaces. Low-E windows allow natural light to enter the home while deflecting harmful ultraviolet rays and infrared light, reducing energy bills and blocking radio frequencies.

Home lighting considerations include light spectrums and intensities, color frequencies and placement decisions, all of which can affect our circadian rhythm and reduce EMF exposure. Newer indoor fixtures mimic the sun by automatically changing color, intensity and frequency throughout the day and night to support our natural body clock.

In a green home, the electrical panel and high-EMF-emitting appliances like the refrigerator are not placed against bedroom walls. Wires are run in single, continuous circuits, without junctions and extensions, to reduce the system’s EMF profile. Internet connections for computers, printers, televisions and game systems are hardwired, which also increase connectivity and speed. A green home’s phone is a landline that improves call clarity and reduces RFR exposure.

Brian Johnson is the CEO of SENERGY360, where he is a certified building biologist and general contractor working to bring optimized living solutions and approaches to modern living, creating efficient and sustainable home environments. Check out his monthly “Healthy Homes Show” at KnoWEwell.com.

To read a longer version of this story, visit NaturalAwakenings.com/2024/05/30/490355/ green-home-design-tips-healthy-options-for-asustainable-sanctuary or scan the QR code.

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Secrets to Summer Success

Giving Youngsters the Vacation They Need

by Thais Harris, BCHN

For elementary school-aged kids, summer represents the promise of no homework and a whole lot of fun, but parents may be less enthusiastic. Figuring out how to keep children entertained, active and engaged while juggling work and household responsibilities, vacation schedules or camp sign-ups can be a little daunting.

Here are some suggestions for the best summer ever—one that combines playtime, nature encounters and fun with chores, rest and time to daydream. This holistic approach encourages a balance of physical, emotional and creative development so that children can enjoy a sense of spaciousness and possibility during the summer, feeling refreshed and ready for school when it resumes.

Jumping Joy

Summer can be a perfect time to boost connection without having to plan something extraspecial like a trip or a fancy outing, says Caroline Griswold, a parenting coach and founder of Fertile Ground Parenting. She notes that kids are better able to appreciate parental attention and care when they see that their mom or dad is present and relaxed.

One way to promote free-flowing connection is by being playful or acting goofy with children, Griswold suggests. Such carefree playfulness sends a strong message that all is well, and that we find our kids irresistibly delightful. If our goofiness makes the kids laugh, even better, because laughter can help residual tensions of the school year float away, making kids emotionally and mentally available for summer relaxation and fun.

“Play more music, especially if it makes everyone want to dance,” Griswold remarks. “When you dance, get goofy! If your kids laugh at you or roll their eyes, you’re on the right track. Our kids love to see us feeling relaxed and silly and might just join in.” Playing silly games is another winning option. Griswold recommends what she calls the “sock fight”, where family members put on socks and sit in a circle with their legs facing inward. The object of the game is to try to remove the socks off everyone else. “Hilarity ensues,” she promises.

Relishing Rest

It is important to encourage kids to take a break from the constant stimulation of screens and social media. This will help them recharge and reduce stress. “Unstructured playtime is crucial for children to develop creativity and problem-solving skills,” says Dr. Michael Rich, associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and director of the

Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital. Such free time enables kids to explore their interests at their own pace.

“Mom, I’m bored,” are not words we often welcome, but there is an increased opportunity for creativity that arises out of boredom, according to a 2014 UK study at the University of Central Lancashire. Allowing a little of it for our kids can make them more open to discovery and inspiration.

Craving Creativity

Activities that provide an outlet for selfexpression, physical experience and emotional release while also advancing a child’s intellect can support harmony and balance in our children, says Joseph Cooney, a family doctor at Berkshire Center for Whole Health, in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Motor skill mastery and practicing dexterity through artistry and creativity is highly beneficial for the intellectual unfolding of children, nurturing their whole body and mind, he explains. Examples include playing with blocks, building structures, drawing, painting or fiddling with magnets.

Nurturing Nature

Getting outside is a must for summering kids. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “There is increasing evidence that outdoor play environments containing natural elements may offer health benefits

that come specifically from engaging in the natural world. Recent studies have demonstrated that a broad range of outcomes are related to access to, and contact with, nature, including increased physical activity, reduced obesity, decreased stress and improved mental health.”

A study published in Journal of Attention Disorders reported that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were able to concentrate better after taking a 20-minute walk in the park. Integrating outdoor activities like hiking or swimming can provide a refreshing break from indoor routines. For an even more immersive experience, outdoor treasure hunts or building a fairy-house with items found in nature can transform natural settings into playgrounds of make-believe and connect kids to the wondrous life forms they encounter.

Making Magic

By embracing a holistic approach, we can provide children with a summer experience that not only entertains, but also nurtures their physical, emotional and mental well-being. The secret to summer magic is to boost nonsensical energy at home, encourage unstructured playtime, integrate outdoor activities, foster creative endeavors and remember to allow for plenty of leisure.

Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist, bestselling author and international speaker, helping women and families nourish themselves into a more fulfilling life through holistic nutrition, mindful lifestyle practices and functional-medicine strategies.

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Cannabidiol for Dogs

Tips for Successful CBD Treatments

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

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a standout compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it will not get a pet “high”, but it has caught the attention of dog owners worldwide for its health benefits. With more than 100 cannabinoids interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate everything from mood to inflammation, it is no wonder that CBD supplements for pets are on the rise. But as popularity grows, so do questions and concerns.

CBD Safety

Research suggests that CBD is generally safe for dogs when used responsibly. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science determined that a daily dose of 4 milligrams (mg) of CBD per kilogram of body weight was well-tolerated in clinically healthy dogs

for six months. Another study published in the same journal two years earlier tested the tolerability of three cannabis oil formulations containing CBD, THC or a combination of CBD and THC versus a placebo. The researchers found that dogs tolerated escalating doses of 18.3 to 640.5 mg of CBD oil well, concluding that a CBD-predominant oil formulation was safer for dogs than formulas containing higher concentrations of THC.

Choosing the Right Product

Angela Ardolino, founder of CBD Dog Health, highlights the benefits of fullspectrum hemp extract, which, unlike CBD isolates, incorporates a broad array of cannabinoids, including CBD and even THC in trace amounts up to the legal threshold of 0.03 percent. She recommends choosing organic, U.S. hemp-derived products to guarantee purity and legal compliance; CO2 extraction for a high-quality, solvent-free extract; and formulations made specifically for dogs rather than humans to prevent overdosing and unnecessary ingredients.

According to Ardolino, products should have enough CBD to treat a condition effectively, from 6 to 12 mg for stress or anxiety to 12 mg for pain and 50 to 100 mg for severe conditions like cancer or seizures. Consider bioavailability, also—sublingual oils are most effective for absorption.

“Only choose products that have a COA [certificate of analysis] by a third-party lab that tests for potency and purity and to ensure it has no contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, mycotoxins or solvents in the product,” recommends Ardolino. “This is also the only way to prove that you are

buying a full-spectrum hemp extract. It should be easily found on the label or on the website. If you can’t easily find one, don’t buy the product.” Customer reviews can also provide insights into a product’s efficacy, safety and quality, as well as a company’s transparency and level of customer support.

Getting a Dog Started on CBD

While the general guidance is to start with a low dose and adjust based on the dog’s response, Ardolino notes that conditions like seizures, pain or cancer may require a higher dosage from the start. She acknowledges that dogs may initially experience a mild psychoactive effect, but this typically subsides as they become accustomed to CBD. The key is to monitor a pet’s reaction closely and adjust the dosage as needed to find a balance that alleviates symptoms without causing discomfort.

Duration of Effects

How long the effects of CBD will last depends on a variety of factors, including a dog’s size, as well as the dosage and administration method. A 2021 study published in Animals found that an intravenous administration of CBD will generally be eliminated from the body within nine hours. However, an oral dose, which is influenced by food intake and liver processing, has a lower bioavailability (13 to 19 percent), so less CBD enters the bloodstream, and yet its effects may last longer due to a slower absorption rate. The exact duration varies with dosage, metabolism and whether it is taken with food.

Potential Risks

While CBD is generally well-received by many dogs, some may experience mild side effects, including dry mouth, a

decrease in blood pressure or drowsiness. Selecting the appropriate dosage and a high-quality product is crucial to minimize these risks. Research indicates that CBD can also influence liver enzymes, notably cytochrome P450s and alkaline phosphatase, both essential in metabolizing various medications. Consequently, there is a potential risk of interactions when CBD is used alongside other drugs, possibly altering the effectiveness and required dosages of those medications. Therefore, despite the availability of CBD treats and products, consulting a veterinarian before introducing a CBD regimen is vital to ensure safety and efficacy.

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

Healing Ways IV Treatments

A Dose of Life Force

The Ins and Outs of Intravenous Therapies

by Zak Logan

The human body can thrive when it receives and absorbs a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, but due to an inadequate diet and compromised digestive system, the nutrients in food and oral supplements do not always hit their mark. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health recommends 13 organic vitamins and 16 inorganic minerals for optimum health, but many of the water-soluble, vital substances such as vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins may not get absorbed by the body and wash out in urine.

This is where intravenous nutrient therapies (IVNT) can fill in the metabolic gaps. Pioneered by the late Dr. John Myers in the 1970s, IVNT puts nutrition directly into the body, bypassing the digestive process to replenish vital elements. “As individuals age or take medications, absorption rates can decrease to as low as 3 to 5 percent,” says Dr. Mitchell Ghen, a clinician, researcher and author specializing in intravenous (IV) nutrition and psychoneuroimmunology in Boca Raton, Florida. “Intravenous nutrition offers a solution by ensuring 100 percent absorption of essential nutrients.”

Beyond celebrity hype, claims of hangover cures and availability at trendy gyms, IV therapy is on the rise at health facilities. A study published in Frontiers in Oncology in 2014 showed that intravenous vitamin C treatments minimize chemotherapy-related fatigue and other symptoms in cancer patients and improve quality of life.

IV vitamin therapy might offer improvement for individuals with nutrient deficiencies. “Anyone who has malabsorption issues will greatly benefit from IV nutrient therapy. Those issues may be caused by bariatric surgery, gut resections with reattachment or diverting colostomy, chronic pancreatitis, infections such as tropical sprue, parasites, tapeworm, or genetic diseases like celiac,” states Jeffrey Weiss, an internal medicine doctor, naturopath and medical director of the Infusion Center of New Jersey.

According to Weiss, cardiac chelation shows promise for cardiovascular disease. “Intravenous di-sodium EDTA [ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid] acts as a magnet for plaque, grabbing onto it and flushing it out via the urine. I see incredible results from cardiac chelation for heavy metal detox, atherosclerosis and even critical valvular (mitral and aortic) stenosism,” he explains.

For allergy sufferers, IVNT can be an alternative to over-the-counter fixes. “Seasonal allergies manifest with elevated histamine levels. Intravenous nutritional intervention, including combining high-dose vitamin C, zinc and B vitamins with oral nutrients such as quercetin, vitamin D3 and curcumin, can effectively alleviate these symptoms,” explains Ghen. For asthmatic patients experiencing broncho-spasms triggered by allergies, he adds, “Intravenous doses of magnesium sulfate can provide relief by relaxing the smooth muscle, therefore improving respiratory symptoms.”

Key Nutrients and Safety

For Ghen, optimal management of serious chronic diseases necessitates a broad approach. “Many of the disorders we encounter stem from underlying processes such as

metabolic disturbances, infections, inflammation and oxidative stress,” he emphasizes. “While a multitude of nutrients can contribute to mitigating these disease processes, several components often stand out: vitamin C, valued for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; B vitamins; magnesium; and the number one intracellular antioxidant, glutathione.”

Weiss also spotlights glutathione as a powerful antioxidant and chelator that binds to heavy metals, mold, organic pollutants and environmental toxins, noting, “Fibromyalgia has a strong environmental etiology, with all my patients testing for some form of heavy metal or other toxicity.”

Ghen suggests pacing IV doses, tailoring treatments and conducting follow-up analysis. “As an educator who has trained over 3,800 physicians in the use of intravenous nutrition, I always emphasize safety. A well-trained intravenous healthcare practitioner adheres to a maximum infusion rate of 4 milliliters per minute,” elaborates Ghen. Before initiating IV therapy, he demands a comprehensive blood workup, and before each IV vitamin session, he requires an assessment of vital signs and urinalysis.

Caution should be exercised, especially with conditions like kidney disease, when high-dose vitamin C administration may exacerbate kidney failure. As for individuals with certain needs or that are on certain medications, Ghen clarifies, “Contraindications related to intravenous nutrition are primarily dosage-dependent rather than inherent to the natural components.” Vitamin C, commonly used as a base in intravenous mixtures, can pose challenges due to its high salt content. For patients with salt sensitivity or heart failure, Ghen points out that the typical doses may be contraindicated, but smaller doses remain an option.

To find a reputable IV treatment facility, visit IVTherapyDirectory.com.

Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living.

Calendar of Events

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email Regina@NARichmond.com for guidelines and to submit entries. No phone calls or faxes, please. Or visit NARichmond.com to submit online.

Thursday, June 6

Sound Bath at the Innerwork Center –6-7pm. June 6 and June 20. Surrender to the stillness and allow sound to heal your body and mind. 804-359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter.org Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA $20+.

Friday, June 7 to

Saturday, June 8

Juneteenth 2024 presented by Elegba Folklore Society – Friday, June 7 (5-9pm) and Saturday June 8 (2-7pm). Short talks by independent authors and book signings, a keynote speaker, live performances plus the Freedom Market filled with unique finds, tasty food and beverages and highlighting the Get Woke Youth Summit, complement this conscious literary festival in observance of Juneteenth. This year, it will take place at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture at 428 North Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 804-644-3900 FREE EFSinc.org.

Sunday, June 9

Soul Collage – 2-4pm. SoulCollage is an intuitive collage process for self-discovery and community building developed by Seena Frost. The process allows participants to access inner wisdom and is accessible to anyone who can cut and glue images onto cards and then engage the images as they speak to the creator. 804359-0384 Register at Innerworkcenter. org Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA. $33+.

Groovin’ in the Garden – Drive-by Truckers: Southern Rock Opera – 7-10pm. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s beloved concert series, Groovin’ in the Garden, has returned after nearly a decade, a fitting celebration for the Garden’s 40th anniversary year. Visit the website for more information and band listing. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 1800 Lakeside Avenue, Richmond, VA. 804-262-9887. LewisGinter.org. $38-$68.

Monday, June 10

Imagery of the Major Arcana – 6:30-8pm. The images of the tarot are meant to elicit an intuitive and emotional response in the viewer. In this workshop we will focus on four of the major cards from the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck: Judgment, Wheel of Fortune, The Hermit, and The World. 804-359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter.org. Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA. $25-$46.

Save the Date

2024 Ram Dass Legacy Summer Mountain Retreat

Join Krishna Das, Spring Washam, Nina Rao, David Nichtern, The Human Experience (David Block), Rima Rabbath, Raghu Markus and Sharon Salzberg (via Zoom) for a connective and transformative community gathering in the gorgeous summer mountains of Boone, NC.

Aug 15-19

Art of Living Retreat Center, Boone, NC

For more information: bit.ly/ram-dass-2024

Tuesday, June 11

Groovin’ in the Garden – Ben Folds: The Paper Airplane Request Tour 7-10pm. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s beloved concert series, Groovin’ in the Garden, has returned after nearly a decade, a fitting celebration for the Garden’s 40th anniversary year. Visit the website for more information and band listing. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden 1800 Lakeside Avenue, Richmond, VA 804-262-9887 LewisGinter.org. $38-$68.

Friday, June 14 to Sunday, June 16

2024 Amelia Lavender Festival – 3-8pm. This three-day festival features live music, food and drinks, over 50 craft vendors, and of course LAVENDER! Bring the whole family to enjoy the farm, take photos in the field, and cut your own bundle of fresh lavender. Kids activities include face painting and a petting zoo, and admission is free for children under 10. Windsor Lavender Farm 3110 Burton Road Amelia Courthouse, VA. $5+.

Saturday, June 15

Cultivating Awareness in Nature – 8:3010:30am. Embark on a journey of selfdiscovery and reconnect with the natural world in a way that uplifts your overall well-being. Embrace the balance of mind, body, and spirit in our Nature Awareness Workshop‚ an enriching experience that lasts far beyond the two and a half hours spent surrounded by the tranquility of nature. 804-359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter.org Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA $45+.

Saturday, June 15

Somatics and Yoga – 9:15-10:30am. Join us on the mat for an exploration of yoga as mindful movement, with the aim of regulating our nervous systems, deepening our sense of embodiment and felt sense, and connecting with our own intuitive movements as a reflection of and to shift our emotional state. Bring your yoga mat, water, and a journal. 804-359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter.org. Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA $19+.

VOWS 4th Annual Juneteenth Jamboree, 5K & Food Truck Festival – 10am-6pm. Registration for the 5K run/walk is $30 and is from 10-12 and is pet friendly followed by live music, fresh brew and food trucks from 12-6. Register at VowsFoundation. org. Event will be held at 3320 W. Cary St. Richmond, VA.

Sunday, June 16

Rhythm and Dance – 10:30am-12pm. Explore instinctive movement and dance to serve as inquiries to parts of ourselves that we may have forgotten or have not yet expressed. We will explore elements of the Laban Movement Analysis 5Rhythms to explore our hidden knowledge of the body and of the self, so that we may begin a practice of the mind, body, and spirit existing in harmony. 804359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter. org Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA $19+.

Thursday, June 20

Sound Bath at the Innerwork Center –6-7pm. June 6 and June 20. Surrender to the stillness and allow sound to heal your body and mind. 804-359-0384 Register at InnerworkCenter.org Innerwork Center 213 Roseneath Rd. Richmond, VA $20+.

Saturday, June 29

Intro to Hula Hoop Dance – 1-2:30pm. Looking to try a new way to dance? Join us for a special Saturday Intro to Hoop Class. We explore the world of hula hoop flow arts in a high-energy, dance-party environment. Hoops are provided for class use. $20. Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus, 97 Manchester Road, Richmond, VA. 804-6150309. HostOfSparrows.com.

Ongoing Events

Sunday

Rescue Dog Hike – 7:45-10am. Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) hosts hikes with its resident rescue dogs led by knowledgeable and dedicated volunteers, and the public (adults and children) is invited to join in on the fun and exercise for both humans and four-legged friends. No experience is necessary to go on the hikes, and the age to walk dogs is 16 and up. Hikers meet at the ODHS center at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard in Fredericksburg, VA. OldDominionHumaneSociety.org.

5Rhythms Movement Meditation – 11am12:30pm. Journey of movement practice, music and community. $20. TurnRVA. 3105 W Moore St. AfterBefore.live.

Peace Through Inquiry: an introduction to The Work of Byron Katie – 1-4pm June 30. Unity of Richmond, 800 Blanton Ave. Richmond, VA Register by phone 804278-6489. Donation-based.

Monday

Level 2 Flow Yoga – 9-10:15am. Start your week right with a yoga class that is beyond a beginner’s level. Participants will incorporate new poses and increasingly challenging options. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/ drop-in.Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Ageless Yoga – 10:30-11:45am. A balanced practice that incorporates basic yoga postures, breath awareness and relaxation. Poses are modified to meet individual needs. Students transfer to and from the floor and the class generally includes a vinyasa flow of standing poses, guided by breath for a portion of class time to increase stamina and strength. Students continue to develop body awareness to keep the joins safe, increasing range of motion and improving balance. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Beginner Qigong with Jonah Marsh –5:30-6:45pm. Qigong is an ancient practice which combines graceful movements with abdominal breathing and mindfulness, allowing us to connect with Nature and balance the body’s circadian rhythms. Jonah has been studying Chinese internal martial arts and qigong since 2011. $5-$25 sliding scale. LivingWaterrva.com. 1000 Westover Hills Blvd. Richmond, VA.

Tuesday

Aerial Yoga – 9-10am. This beginnerfriendly class for adults of all ages combines traditional yoga with the support of a suspended silk hammock. You will be guided through a series of poses and flows designed to strengthen, lengthen, and open the body, leaving you feeling confident, connected, and relaxed.

PLANS CHANGE

Please call ahead to confirm date and times

$20 Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus, 97 Manchester Road, Richmond, VA. 804-6150309. Hostofsparrows.com.

Beginner-Level Yoga – 9-10:15am. Balanced practice that incorporates basic yoga postures, breath awareness & relaxation. Postures modified to meet individual needs. Online & in-person. $70/4 classes/ mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Yoga for Bone Health – 9:45-11am. Increase bone & muscle through the use of yoga with a combination of dynamic & static yoga poses. Chris Riely. $70/4 classes/ mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. Registration required: 804-741-5267 or GlenmoreYoga.com.

Fundamentals Pilates Mat Class – 10:45am12pm. This Pilates Mat Class with Dianne Powers will include the basic exercises emphasizing alignment, elongation of the spine and healthy posture. It will focus on the execution of efficient movement achieving improved core strength and endurance. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/dropin. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Slow and Gentle Yoga – 11:30am-12:45pm. An in-studio or online class with a yoga therapist. $70 for 4 classes in a month; $20 drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Mixed Level 1 & 2 Yoga – 5-6:15pm. This Mixed Level 1 & 2 yoga class is both instudio and online. End your work day with this yoga class that will move through all the muscles and joints, transitioning from beginner yoga poses into more challenging poses. If joining online, please register in advance to get the Zoom link. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Tuesday Night Gentle Flow into Restoration – 6:30-7:30pm. A nourishing and relaxing 60-minute gentle hatha yoga flow with restorative yoga poses (using props). Suitable for any level, sliding-scale, drop-in & props provided. Leave feeling relaxed, restored & rejuvenated. Like all Living Water classes, this one is sliding scale, $5-$25. Living Water Community Center. 1000 Westover Hills Blvd. LivingWaterrva. com/events.

Wednesday

Yin Yoga (In Studio & Online) – 9-10:30am. This quiet practice with Erin Forsyth, ERYT 500, focuses on the deep connective tissue in the lower back, hips and pelvis. Poses are generally limited to seated or reclined. The poses apply passive pressure to the joints, ligaments and tendons and are held for 3 to 5 minutes. While holding, students practice staying mentally attentive by focusing on the breath and to what their body feels in the pose. For the online class, please register in advance to get the Zoom link. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com $20.

Yin Yoga with Erin Forsyth – 9-10:30am. This quiet practice, offered in-studio and online, focuses on the deep connective tissue in the lower back, hips and pelvis. Poses are generally limited to seated or reclined. While holding the pose for a period of time, students practice staying mentally attentive by focusing on the breath and to what their body feels in the post. If attending online, please register in advance to get the Zoom link. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/drop-in Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Intermediate Flow Pilates Mat Class –9:15-10:30am. A Pilates mat class with a focus on intermediate mat exercises. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Ageless Yoga 10:45am-12pm. A balanced practice that incorporates basic yoga postures, breath awareness and relaxation. Poses are modified to meet individual needs. Students transfer to and from the floor and the class generally includes a vinyasa flow of standing poses, guided by breath for a portion of class time to increase stamina and strength. Students continue to develop body awareness to keep the joins safe, increasing range of motion and improving balance. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/ drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Gentle Yoga – 11am-12:15pm. This class features gentle yoga stretches, postures, breath awareness and relaxation to improve flexibility, strength, range of motion, balance and energy. Designed for those recovering from injuries, illness, inactivity or other health considerations. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Vino Vinyasa – 12-1pm. Join instructor Ann Marie Lewis for a strong yoga practice that will leave you feeling revitalized on every level! Rinse out your body and mind with a dose of structural, functional flow yoga at beautiful Ashton Creek Vineyard. You are encouraged to stay after class to enjoy some locally produced wine and nibbles! Bring a yoga mat, 2 blocks and a strap. Ashton Creek Vineyard 14501 Jefferson Davis Hwy Chester, VA 804-536-5869 $15.

Thursday

Aerial Yoga – 9-10am. This beginnerfriendly class for adults of all ages combines traditional yoga with the support of a suspended silk hammock. You will be guided through a series of poses and flows designed to strengthen, lengthen, and open the body, leaving you feeling confident, connected, and relaxed. $20 Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus, 97 Manchester Road, Richmond, VA. 804-6150309. HostOfSparrows.com.

Vinyasa Flow – 9-10:15am. Join Glenmore Yoga's Randi Weiss, E-RYT 500, for an inperson or online Vinyasa Flow class that incorporates all aspects of a traditional Hatha yoga class – postures, breath & meditation while challenging your coordination through flow. Please register in advance. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/dropin. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Intermediate Vinyasa Flow – 9:15-10:30am. Incorporates all aspects of a traditional hatha yoga class: postures, breath & meditation, while challenging the coordination through flow. In-person & online. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center. 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-7415267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Postnatal Yoga – 10-11am. $16 multiclass discount packages available. Gently reconnect with your breath, pelvic floor, and abdominal muscles. We recommend that you begin this practice after your care provider has cleared resumption of physical activity. While this class is not made to directly incorporate infants they are welcome to attend with you until they start to crawl. MyBirth, 1726 Altamont Ave, Suite 4. MyBirthrva.com/yoga.

Chair Yoga – 10:30-11:45am. This online Chair Yoga class via Zoom for older adults offers a balanced yoga practice which incorporates basic yoga postures, breath awareness and relaxation. Students continue to develop body awareness to keep the joints safe, increase range of motion and improve balance. Please register in advance to get the Zoom link. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Fundamentals Pilates Mat Class – 10:45am12pm. This Pilates Mat Class with Dianne Powers will include the basic exercises emphasizing alignment, elongation of the spine and healthy posture. It will focus on the execution of efficient movement achieving improved core strength and endurance. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/dropin. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

YOGAbility – 11am-12:15pm. This in-studio therapeutic yoga class is designed to educate, assess and help you progress in everyday life skills including functional abilities of work, rest and play. Highlighted are abilities of aligned posture, dynamic balance and increased mobility. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-7415267. GlenmoreYoga.com. $20.

Online Beginner Yoga – 6-7:15pm. A balanced practice that incorporates basic yoga postures, breath awareness and relaxation. Postures are modified to meet individual needs. Please register in advance to get the Zoom link for this online class. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

Friday

Yin Yoga – 9-10:15am This 75-minute instudio Yin Yoga class is a great way to end the week. The quiet practice focuses on the deep connective tissue in the lower back, hips and pelvis. Poses are generally limited to seated or reclined. The poses apply passive pressure (muscularly soft) to the joints, ligaments and tendons and are held for 3-5 minutes. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-7415267. GlenmoreYoga.com $20.

Level 1 & 2 Yoga – 10:45-12pm. This in-studio traditional yoga class takes students beyond the beginner level. The class will flow through poses and include more challenging options, ending with a relaxation session. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/ drop-in. Glenmore Yoga & Wellness Center, 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy. 804-741-5267. GlenmoreYoga.com.

First Friday Art Walk at Gallery5 –5-10pm. Free admission on 1st Fridays. Art, performers, live music, food, vendors, and more! Gallery5 continues to be a catalyst for new creative initiatives & serves as a launching pad for emerging artists & area nonprofits. Gallery5, 200 W Marshall St. 757-773-7618. Gallery5Arts.org.

Saturday

Mixed-Level Yoga – 9-10:15am. Start the weekend off right w/a yoga class appropriate for all levels. Guidance given throughout practice, offering individual students a number of appropriate options. In-person & online. $70/4 classes/mo, $20/ drop-in. Zoom. Register, Glenmore Yoga, 804-741-5267 or GlenmoreYoga.com.

It Cool

Coming in July

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Regina@NARichmond.com to request our media kit.

Concierge Medicine

WELLCOMEMD

2500 Gaskins Rd, Ste A 866-942-4522 · WellcomeMD.com infoRichmond@WellcomeMD.com

Experience concierge medicine with a functional medicine approach. Comprehensive and proactive, limited number of patients, unhurried 30-minute consultations for a personal and effective relationship with your physician. Schedule a discovery call today. See ad, page 4.

Counseling

LINDA ZAFFRAM, LCSW, CYT200, PMH-C

Healing Circle Counseling

2819 N. Parham Road, Suite 130 Richmond, VA 23294

804-924-7600

HealingCircleCounseling.com

Linda Zaffram is the founder, owner and CEO of Healing Circle Counseling and Services. Linda’s areas of expertise include adults, women’s issues, depression, panic/anxiety, PTSD, grief/ bereavement, perinatal loss/ stillbirth/miscarriage, perinatal mood disorders, maternal mental health, fertility/reproductive issues, NICU families, emotional, physical & sexual abuse, trauma, birth trauma, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, communication skill building and developing coping skills. See ad, page 8.

Counseling/ Neurofeedback

CHERYL DESVERNINE

Braniac Wellness

804-250-3450

BraniacWellness.org

Cheryl is board-certified (BCN) in neurofeedback and has been practicing neurofeedback over the last eight years. We offer neurofeedback, eye movement therapy and traditional counseling to clients ages 6 and up. Neurofeedback is an intervention that improves symptoms associated with ADHD, anxiety, panic, PTSD, trauma, depression and more that is holistic and does not require medication

Dentist (Biological/Holistic)

NEIGHBORS AND HEROD FAMILY DENTISTRY

Dr. Brian Herod  1009 Crowder Dr., Midlothian, VA 23113 804-794-8745 • MidloDental.com

Dr. Brian Herod centers his holistic dentistry practice on the connection between oral and systemic health. He is a member of the IAOMT, providing an integrative approach to dental care. Safe amalgam removal, metal and BPA-free fillings, ceramic implants, biocompatibility testing, fluoridefree, 3-D cone beam.

Doctors

NANCY A. POWELL, M.D.

River’s Way Healthcare of Virginia 5500 Monument Ave, Ste T 804-379-4560

RiversWayHealthcareVA.com

RiversWayVA@gmail.com

Offering expanded healing services. Providing traditional primary care and alternative approaches to support the body’s ability to heal itself. Extensive study in the mind-body connection to achieve optimal health. Certified by the Board of Family Medicine and by the American Board of Scientific Medical Intuition.

Functional Medicine

ANDREW HARTMAN, M.D.

CHRISTIAN JENSKI, M.D.

Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine

804-893-3920

RichmondFunctionalMedicine.com

We offer an integrative approach to conventional and alternative medicine that is entirely backed by science, so you can experience whole-person health. Get integrative, science-backed solutions and physician-led support to live the vibrant life you deserve.

Energy Healing

HEALING CREATIONS

Rev. Emily Pels, BFA, CHTP, RScP/Minister, RoHun Doctor 804-740-0509, West End Richmond EPels@aol .com EmilyPels.com

Working together to help you to remember what an awesome gift you are to the world. Experience a powerful healing restoring Joy, Balance, Harmony, Pain Release. Offering Healing Touch, Intuitive Energy Medicine, RoHun, Crystal Healing, Past Life Regression, Mandala Art and Soul Portrait therapies.

Holistic Gynecology

VERA DUBOVOY, M.D. Dubovoy Integrative Health 1404 Starling Dr., Richmond, VA 23229 (Inside the Wellness Village) 757-603-3034 VAIntegrativeHealth.com

Vera Dubovoy, M.D., is dual board-certified in OB-GYN and Lifestyle Medicine. She has over 1,000 hours of training in integrative medicine and functional medicine including health and wellness coaching, nutrition, and herbal medicine. She believes in personalized wellness and nourishing our physical, emotional and spiritual health. She and her husband offer a range of progressive therapies designed to fit the treatment needs of the patient.

Insurance

PCM INSURANCE AGENCY

Patricia Mayfield

PCMInsurance19@gmail.com 1-800-674-6771

PCM Insurance is your premier destination for Medicare enrollment services. With decades of experience in the industry, our dedicated team of experts is committed to helping individuals navigate the complexities of Medicare with ease. See ad, page 8.

IV Hydration

RESTORE HYPER WELLNESS

14301 Winterview Pkwy

Midlothian, VA 23113

804-601-5045

Restore.com

Only Restore Hyper Wellness delivers a system of total balance, energy and proactive healing that allows you to feel your best, reach your full potential and do more of what you love. Our methodology helps empower your body to do what it was designed to do with as little intervention as possible. Our services include IV drip therapy, cryotherapy, red light therapy, infrared sauna, compression, and oxygen therapy.

Laser Therapy

HEALTH INSYNCS

9210 Forest Hill Ave, B-3, Richmond 804-377-2222

HealthInsyncs.com

Laser therapy can reduce the pain and swelling of strained muscles and tendonitis, irritated discs and inflamed nerves, and can stimulate tissue repair and regeneration from old and new injuries. See our website for mor e information about laser therapy. See ad, page 19.

Massage Therapy

ESCAPE MASSAGE

15500 WC Commons Way, Midlothian

804-794-0445

EscapeMassage.com

We offer a variety of massages including Swedish, Therapeutic Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Aromatherapy and CBD. We also offer energy therapy, reiki and halotherapy services. We have a team of professional, experienced, and caring licensed massage therapists and reiki masters ready to cater to your self-care needs. See ad, page 19.

Medical Cannabis Provider

NARITA C. SNEAD, MPH, MSN, APN-BC

Certified Medical Cannabis Provider

Adult Nurse Practitioner

Registered Practitioner for Medical Cannabis

804-475-8904

Green-Healing.co

Find relief from chronic pain, anxiety and other health conditions with our Medical Cannabis Certification. Get your valid written medical cannabis certification card today. Unlock the natural healing properties of medical cannabis.

Natural Medicine

MAGNOLIA WELLNESS

Regina Rudolph  MagnoliaWell@gmail.com 804-495-0325

Wellness-Teas.com

Promoting self-care and disease prevention through the use of our crafted collection of premium wellness teas designed to reduce stress and anxiety, strengthen the immune system, promote weight loss and release harmful toxins. Magnolia Wellness also assists people on their journey to better health and wellness through classes and private sessions. See ad, page 2.

Pharmacy

RX3 COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

12230 Ironbridge Rd, Ste C, Chester 11934 W Broad St, Henrico Ph: 804-717-5000, Fax: 804-717-8300

Rx3Pharmacy.com

RX3, Virginia’s First Nationally Accredited Compounding Pharmacy, has been an industry leader for 23+ years. Specialists in customized compounding, bio-identical hormones, veterinary/equine compounding, traditional pharmacy, palliative care, professional quality supplements, CBD experts, Food Inflammation Testing, and more. See ad, page 13.

Thermography

DEBBIE TROXELL, RN, MSNH Thermographer

The Wellness Village 1404 Starling Dr, Richmond 804-683-7774

RVAThermography.com

Safe, non-invasive, radiationfree imaging. Preserve your breasts, heart health and much more. Live happier and healthier longer! Interpreted by Matthew Lee, MD, RPh. See ad, page 4.

Yoga

GLENMORE YOGA & WELLNESS CENTER

Far West End Location 10442 Ridgefield Pkwy, Henrico 804-741-5267

Info@GlenmoreYoga.com

GlenmoreYoga.com

Incorporate yoga into your life at Glenmore with in-person and online student-focused, multi-level classes from Ageless Gentle, Beginner and Yin to Vinyasa Flow, Restorative and Meditation. 200- and 300Hour Teacher Training. Voted best Richmond Yoga Center.

Location:

Date: October 12, 2024

Learn more, visit NARichmond.com/pages/healthfest or email