May 2023 Natural Awakenings South Central PA

Could your Weight, Mood, Sleep, and Energy Issues be Caused by Imbalanced Hormones?

From fatigue and irritability to headaches and weight gain, it may be surprising to learn that these and other often-debilitating, ongoing ailments may be the result of hormone imbalances.

What are Hormones?

Hormones are chemical messengers that impact not only hunger, digestion, and immune function, but also reproduction, metabolism, blood sugar, and even emotions and mood.

Imbalanced hormone levels are most commonly the culprit for the hot flashes that many women experience during menopause. However, it’s a newer concept for people to bring hormones into question when pondering potential causes such as sleeplessness, fluid retention, headaches, so-called “brain fog” and decreased libido, as well as struggling to shed excess pounds despite following strict diet and exercise regimens.

Is Stress Causing Weight Gain?

One of the main culprits of imbalanced hormones is stress. But not just mental stress. When we are under chronic stress – be it a demanding job, shuffling kids around, excessive exercising, lack of sleep, too much caffeine, nutrient deficiencies, toxins, artificial lights, chronic pain, the typical American diet high in sugars and processed foods, or all of the above – our bodies pump out a

hormone called cortisol to buffer stress on the body and to protect us. Not only can high levels of cortisol lead to insulin resistance and inflammation, but it can create an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone (known as estrogen dominance).

When hormones are out of balance, even if you’re eating “right”and working out, it can be virtually impossible to burn fat efficiently.

At BeBalanced, we offer a unique, natural approach to correct these hormone imbalances, helping women to lose stubborn weight, eliminate or reduce menopausal symptoms, sleep better, have more energy, and feel like themselves again!

We do this through easy-to-follow protocols, helping our clients move the scale when it seems “stuck”, and provide tools to help keep the weight off long-term. Could imbalanced hormones be holding you back? Start by scheduling a free in-person or virtual consultation today!

“I always have the best experience with Jennifer. She is hands down the best massage therapist, by far, I’ve had over 20+ years of receiving massages. She can pinpoint and ease all the areas I have pain.” ~Jennie

S.

“My son had a massage with Chris and really enjoyed the sessions. Feels Chris is nice, caring, and informative.”

~Alicia S.

We are your local, certified, in-person source of education & information, most qualified to help you determine the CBD products, dosages & delivery methods that are right for you. CBD technology, product options, quality standards & state legislation can be overwhelming to learn and understand on your own. Visit one of our retail outlets to talk & learn from our Certified CBD Consultants so you can make informed decisions.

Each month in this space, look for new, topical, educational information about CBD to keep you informed about if & how CBD may be a fit for your personal, natural health journey, and get to meet a different member of our staff of Certified CBD Consultants.

CBD for PTSD

Various levels of stress impact our daily lives, and we all have different methods of handling it. Sometimes we experience extremely traumatic events and facing them head on can seem impossible. These experiences haunt us and may prevent us from living healthy and productive lives.

Fortunately, many studies report that CBD and other cannabinoids have a high success rate in reducing PTSD related stress, and help to eliminate painful memories. Those with PTSD often have a limited supply of our bodies’ internal cannabinoid, Anandamide, also known as the “bliss molecule”, which helps regulate our emotions and gives us boosts of positivity. Taking external cannabinoids will activate the same receptors anandamide applies itself to and thus provides us the same benefits. Besides providing the effects typically supplied by anandamide, CBD also helps with serotonin and dopamine production.

No severe side effects of taking CBD have been noted, although some may experience drowsiness and perhaps upset stomach depending on the method of ingestion and dosage. It’s

always best to start with a low dose and increase as needed to help the body find its balance, as the same amount doesn’t work for every person. CBD for PTSD has been popularized mainly by the military community, but survivors of abuse and even children have experienced positive results. Cannabis is very versatile as it provides us many methods of use. Edibles, capsules, and drink mixes are abundant, and if a new user is reluctant to ingest, a simple topical cream can provide relief.

References:

Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC6482919/

Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/sites/ emilyearlenbaugh/2020/09/17/new-research-reveals-why-cannabis-helps-ptsdsufferers/?sh=2d65593179a4

CBD topical cream

CBD & THC: Best Buds

CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are often mistaken for one another and many curious parties question the differences. While they both have the exact same molecular structure, each cannabinoids’ atoms are arranged differently, which contributes to their differing effects. We all have an endocannabinoid system within us that regulates our bodies’ state of being, and that system has CB1 and CB2 receptors that are activated when cannabis is ingested. THC binds much more powerfully to CB1 receptors than CBD, which is why so many CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, not enough to get you high, but to help it bind more effectively and produce better results. However, if you’re seeking the psychoactive benefits of THC, try a product that combines both in either a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio (CBD:THC). The CBD in these products can help reduce the negative effects of THC such as paranoia and drowsiness. Overdosing

We offer a wide selection of products: Water Soluble, Topicals and Gummies for full body support, CBNight for sleep, Immunity Support for healthy immune system, Lotions for healthy skin and even Chews and Treats for our furry best friends!

on THC is caused when the endocannabinoid system is overstimulated. THC will flood the area of the brain that controls fear and emotional responses.

How can psychoactive amounts of THC be legal? THC can be derived from hemp instead of marijuana, and

Talk to our certified CBD Consultants and try In-Store SAMPLING to find the right product, dosage and delivery method for YOU.

Matthew Pease has been a CBD and THC advocate, long before the Farm Bill provided a pathway for him to center his career on it. More than just a career, it is a passion for him. Matt found that CBD and THC significantly helped reduce his ADHD. He knew that if he found relief, so can others. Growing up in the Camp Hill area, and being a graduate of Millersville University, Matt is active in bringing plant wellness as an option into our communities. Matt has been with CBD American Shaman for over a year now and has grown as a staple in the Shaman Family, not just in the Mechanicsburg store, but across all of them. Be sure to say Hi if you catch him at an event, you cannot miss that beard!

“I’ve been shopping with the Shaman for years, and they never let me down. They consistently have fresh inventory, always keeping up with different cannabinoid and vape trends. The shopkeeper Matt knows all there is about any product you ask about, and his recommendations are so helpful and on point. A wonderful store.” - Dillon

the effect is the same. It is allowed if the dry weight of THC is .3% or less of the total product weight, so producers increase the overall product mass to get to those desired levels. Discover the benefits and avoid the side effects of THC by trying it with its best partner: CBD!

“I love shopping here. Selection is great and the CBD options have helped multiple health issues for myself and family members. All the staff are pleasant and helpful and Matt P. always goes above and beyond. I won’t be shopping anywhere else.” - Tiffany R.

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Mother: The most beautiful word on the lips of mankind.

~ Kahlil Gibran

With this issue, we shift from celebrating Mother Earth last month to acknowledging our earthly mothers and celebrating the women who nurtured us and helped shape our lives. It’s also an opportunity to focus on women’s wellness and the importance of reducing stress and anxiety, balancing hormones, the first sign of menopause, skin fitness and more. We’re glad to discuss these topics, sharing information and guidance for women of all ages.

Our feature article explores the topic of stress reduction, with holistic tips from functional doctors to help manage it effectively. Chronic stress can have a detrimental effect on the body and mind, leading to a range of health issues. You’ll learn strategies for managing this aspect of living and cultivating a sense of calm and balance in daily life.

We also look at the crucial role that food plays in supporting women’s hormone balance, which can affect everything from mood and energy levels to weight and sleep patterns. In addition, we discuss the first signs of menopause with innovative and customized answers for women experiencing symptoms. Also included in our Fit Body department is a regimen for skin fitness.

We recognize the importance of Mother’s Day and the role that mothers play in our lives. In our heartfelt tribute, we explore the unique challenges that they face in maintaining their own health and wellness while caring for their families.

We’re excited to feature several local businesses who keep women’s health issues at the forefront. Michael Reisinger, of CBD American Shaman, and Paget Rhee, of BeBalanced, are featured in their own spotlights. Drew Acklin, of Be Here Now, and Brenda Baxter, from The Balance, are local contributors, as well. You’ll also find a unique treat in our special section providing in-depth profiles of local businesses and practitioners dedicated to supporting women’s wellness, and be sure to attend the inaugural York County Women’s Expo from OLP Events on May 6 at Memorial Hall East at the fairgrounds.

Natural Awakenings of South Central Pennsylvania is a faithful steward of global resources. We are delighted to be part of an environmentally conscious community and therefore manufacture this magazine utilizing the environmentally-friendly cold-set web printing process which emits virtually immeasurable VOC's into the environment. This product is 100% recyclable.

As the air begins to warm and the flowers start to bloom, we are reminded of the beauty and renewal that comes with the arrival of spring and hope this issue provides valuable insights and inspiration for women and men of all ages. We encourage you to share it with the women in your life and to take a moment this Mother’s Day to honor and appreciate all the women who have made a positive impact on your life and who may have taught you how to feel good, live simply and laugh more along the way.

Dave Korba, Publisher

Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

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Experience Japanese Tea Done Right

Your Yoga will host an authentic Japanese tea ceremony on May 13, with two seatings at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Owner Cynthia Johannes-Beecher will be highlighting a Japanese tea sensei located in York to share a tea ceremony class inclusive of learning, drinking tea and enjoying sweets.

She says, “Your Yoga is excited to offer you the rare opportunity to experience a true Japanese tea ceremony here at our studio. We are fortunate to have Todd Frey, a sensei, here to provide this beautiful class. Todd will share his journey and talk about tea history, matcha cultivation and the health benefits of tea. He will also introduce us to many aspects of tea ceremony itself and discuss how he came to build his own tea hut here in West York. The tea ceremony, or chanoyu in Japanese, is a ritual of intention and quiet reflection. For tea masters, it’s an art form requiring years of study. Join us to learn, relax, celebrate our host and each other, and taste the most amazing tea and some delightful sweets.”

Cost is $20. Location: 1900 Orange St., York. To register (required), call 717-586-6494, email Cynthia@YorkYourYoga.com or visit YorkYourYoga.com. See ad, page 11.

Todd Frey

Give Local York Party for

the River

The inaugural Give Local York Party for the River will take place from 5 to 9 p.m., May 5, upstairs at the John Wright Restaurant to support eight local organizations that protect and care for York’s streams and rivers, including the mighty Susquehanna. Attendees can learn about both the unique and collaborative efforts of these organizations to make our community a healthier, happier place to live, work, visit and play. There will be a cash bar with appetizers provided.

Participating Organizations include Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Farm & Natural Lands Trust of York County, Lancaster Conservancy, Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper, Master Watershed Steward Program, Susquehanna National Heritage Area and Watershed Alliance of York.

Admission is free. Location: 234 N. Front St. Wrightsville. RSVP at Tinyurl.com/PartyForTheRiver by Apr. 28.

Reiki by Rickie Celebrates 10 Years

Reiki by Rickie

~Reikispace & Learning Place, Harrisburg area’s first reiki center, was created by Rickie Meryl Freedman and opened April 1, 2013. ReikiSpace offers heart-centered, energy-based sessions, workshops, classes and events, managed by the Reiki Healing Principles of Love and Service. It has become a gathering place supporting the community with positive energy.

Freedman is preparing to launch her book, Radiating our Reiki Light ~ Reiki Healing through Real Stories from Clients, Students, Practitioners and Teachers, in November.

Location: 2793 Old Post Rd., Ste. 10, Harrisburg. For more information, call 717599-2299, email Rickie@ReikiByRickie.com or visit ReikiByRickie.com. See ad on page 16 and profile on page 19.

To schedule your appointment today call 717-319-7244

Rickie Freedman

Transformation and Community for Women at ReWeaving

ReWeaving Balance will present AWARE n EMPOWERED n WHOLENESS: Wisdom Teaching by Gigi Jantos, from 1 to 5 p.m., May 21. Jantos is an energetic alignment guide; reiki master teacher; nature lover and women’s empowerment guide. Teaching for 22 years, she uses transformative energy to empower herself and others toward wholeness.

Jantos says, “I will support and guide you through the day as we move together toward empowered wholeness, including these experiences and takeaways: Become more aware of the brilliance of your inner design of energy as you open to any imbalances that are ready to be revealed now. Empower your inner knowing to guide you into unity with parts of yourself that are ready to be known and transformed. Open your heart and create a new story of empowered wholeness and harmony. Awareness is energy. Thought is energy. Feelings and emotions are energy. Energy is fuel, simple and profound. How are you using your fuel? Using the fuel of our hearts and intentions, we can choose to unify these energies within us and welcome ourselves home to ourselves.”

Cost is $44. Location: 5A Harrisburg Pike, Dillsburg. For more information, call 717-9434833, email ReWeavingBalance@gmail.com or visit ReWeavingBalance.earth. See listing, page 42.

International Competitions Await Cristina Dunbar

Cristina Dunbar, owner of Happie Soul Wellness, is competing in the sixth annual International Massage Competition in June and second annual American Massage Competition in July, where she won Bronze in Swedish in 2022.

She is currently sponsored by Creative Law Studio. Meanwhile, Dunbar has competed in video submission competitions (IMCC Singapore) and was also nominated for Harrisburg’s Best 2023 in two categories: Massage-West and Places That Help You Lose Weight. Dunbar is not only an award-winning massage therapist and instructor, she is also a reiki master teacher, esthetician, body contour specialist, teeth whitening specialist and an intuitive psychic medium.

Location: 5000 Lenker St., Ste. 103 Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-2546250, email Admin@HappieSoul.me for local business sponsorships, or visit HappieSoul.me to vote. See ads on pages 8 and 15, profile on page 18 and listing on page 41.

The Art of Monday Morning at Dragonfly Sangha

The Rev. Mike Travisano, a fully ordained (Osho) member of the Dragonfly Sangha, a modern Buddhist community in south-central Pennsylvania since 1996 (formerly the Blue Mountain Lotus Society), is offering free weekly meditation services every Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Mount Calvary Episcopal Church. Founded in 1996, The Dragonfly Sangha is a contemporary community of oneness in the legacy of the Buddha.

Each service includes a brief Buddhist liturgy, a talk based on the teachings of the Buddha, an opportunity for participants to offer incense and prayers, and a period of meditation. They are open to people of all backgrounds and traditions, with no meditation experience necessary. The service provides an opportunity to find peace amid the stress of our lives and the world, and to reconnect with the aspects within each of us that are most meaningful, such as love, kindness, compassion and joy.

Admission is free. Location: the downstairs undercroft at 125 N. 25th St., Camp Hill. For more information, call 717-999-4400, email Mike@ TheArtOfMondayMorning.com or visit TheArtOfMondayMorning.com/monday-meditation.

Cristina Dunbar

One-Stop Wellness Spa

Polished Salon Spa & Wellness is growing. Owner Stacie Sheely says, “We have recently added new services to our Wellness and Medi Spa offerings, which include an infrared sauna, dry float therapy, lymphatic drainage massage, B12 shots, Skinny B shots, Physiq body contouring, Semaglutide weight loss shots and cupping with pin and stretch. These new services further confirm our commitment to providing a well-rounded experience that encompass beauty and wellness in a single, full-service salon, spa and wellness facility.”

Polished is the Harrisburg area’s only one-stop destination for beauty and spa needs, providing a complete menu of services, including manicures, pedicures, massage, hair services, slimming body wraps, nutritional consulting, medi-spa services, laser and hair removal. “At Polished Salon, Spa and Wellness, we care for the whole person and provide the best spa experience!” advises Sheely. “You will feel more beautiful, younger, healthier and relaxed after your ‘me-time’ with us. When you walk through our front door, it’s all about you, baby!”

Location: 1200 Market St., Lemoyne (West Shore Plaza). For more information, call 717-975-9036, email PolishedSpa1@ gmail.com or visit PolishedSpa.com. See ad on page 3, profile on page 19 and listing on page 42.

Molecular Hydrogen Therapy at Carlisle Bowen Works

Carlisle Bowen Works is providing Molecular Hydrogen Therapy as a standalone session ($80) or add-on to any therapeutic session ($50). Owner Nancy Bittinger, a certified H2 advisor, is providing this service. She says, “It is extremely healthy, and we are the only ones in the area offering it. You breathe in the molecular hydrogen so it’s easily added to any treatment you are already receiving.”

Hydrogen therapy acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body by neutralizing harmful free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and inflammation which are linked to chronic pain, arthritis, diabetes and heart disease. Hydrogen gas can also improve energy levels, enhance cognitive function and boost overall well-being.

Hydrogen can be inhaled at low concentrations via nasal cannula or eye goggles, or infused into water to protect cells from oxidative stress-related damage. Molecular hydrogen is an innovative and effective treatment for exercise-induced oxidative stress and sports injury.

Location: 616 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg. For appointments or more information, call 717-386-8279, email nbittinger@comcast. net or visit CarlisleBowenWorkPA.com. See profile on page 17 and listing on page 40.

More Convenient Ways to Shop at Wegmans

new, personalized shopping service, Cart to Curb, allows Wegman’s customers the convenience of curbside pickup (minimum order $10) between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. for their purchases and even prepared meals. Tipping is discouraged and EBT is accepted. Their first dedicated app, Meals 2GO, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, makes ordering online easier than ever. A tutorial video can be found at Tinyurl.com/WegmansTutorial

Customers can place orders through the app and have them available in-store, for curbside pickup or delivered to their home or office. “Customers can place their orders for restaurant foods and favorites and it’s just a click of a button and they can choose however they want it available for them,” says Melissa Darrin, service team leader.

The Meals 2GO menu consists of sushi, pizza, wings, subs, salads and a soup menu. Each order takes a minimum of 25 minutes for no additional fee. She advises, “Next time you need groceries from Wegmans, place an online order, set a pickup time and just show up to grab your groceries! The goal of this is to meet our customers where they’re at. We still enjoy our customers coming into our stores, but folks are busy especially during the holidays.”

Location: 6416 Carlisle Pike; Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-791-4500, email st045fe@wegmans.com or visit Wegmans.com/Wegmans2GO. See ad on page 35 and listing on page 41.

A Great Way to Spend the Day

The10th annual OLP Events

ADauphin County Women’s Expo will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 3, at the Hershey Lodge. Exhibitors ranging from larger businesses to small franchises and solopreneurs will provide women of all ages with information about health and wellness, travel, fashion, home improvements, beauty, finance and more. Visitors will be eligible for door prizes.

See what’s new for spring at the Athleta Fashion Show. The fitness and lifestyle brand makes sportswear that includes yoga pants, leggings, workout tops, bras, sleep and loungewear, dresses, jackets, swimwear and accessories.

At Dr. Lori’s Antiques Appraisal Comedy Show, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., attendees can bring antiques and vintage thrift shop finds for an expert appraisal by the appraiser of The History Channel shows, “The Curse of Oak Island” and “Pawn Stars Do America.” Plus, she will share tips on how to sell “stuff “for profit.

The Harrisburg Kennel Club will have a few of its cute canines on hand for Puppy Hugging by donation.

The AAA Mobile Branch, a specially fitted cargo van, will offer a comfortable area for help with AAA services such as a notary public, passport photos, theme park tickets and more.

At the Women’s Expo Selfie Spot, guests can stop in front of a colorful backdrop for a selfie or group shot.

Admission and parking are free. Location: 325 University Dr., Hershey. Preregister online at aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com. For more information, call 717-285-1350. See ad, page 24.

Massage for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a painful syndrome most felt as a sharp or stabbing pain in the heel when taking the first steps in the morning and during prolonged standing or walking throughout the day. The pain is caused by the inflammation of a thick band that runs across the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. The pain can alter the walking pattern and have a domino effect which leads to foot, ankle, knee, hip or even back pain. Ignoring the pain or not seeking treatment may result in chronic heel pain and inhibit regular activities throughout the day.

Massage therapy can help by means of techniques that stretch the plantar fascia and increase blood flow to that area and promote healing. The massage uses a combination of relaxation and stretching techniques to help reduce the tension on the thick band, which in turn decreases the pain. Massage can also help break up scar tissue that has formed so it can heal over time.

Brenda A. Baxter, LMT/PTA, is a certified holistic MLD practitioner and owner of The Balance, located at 2201 Forest Hill Dr., Ste. 9, in Harrisburg, specializing in stress and pain management and relaxation treatments. For appointments or more information, call 717-877-7533 or visit BalanceIsYours.com. See ad, page 10.

Skin Fitness

DAILY ROUTINES FOR A RADIANT APPEARANCE

by David J. Sautter

While many of us work out to tone our muscles, we may be neglecting the largest organ in the body: our skin. Every day, it is exposed to a variety of irritants, including ultraviolet rays, air pollution, extreme weather and highly processed foods. Stress can also cause skin irritations and conditions. To serve its important functions and look healthy, our skin needs a fitness regimen. With a few daily routines, lifestyle modifications and coping strategies, a radiant appearance is within reach.

Skin Conditions Exacerbated by Stress

ACNE: When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the production of pore-clogging oils, which can lead to the formation of acne. Stress also triggers inflammation, which can worsen existing acne.

PREMATURE AGING: Stress can accelerate the aging process by reducing the skin’s elasticity and causing wrinkles and fine lines. It triggers the production of free radicals, precipitating damage to collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and supple. When they are damaged, the skin becomes saggy.

CHRONIC CONDITIONS: Stress can trigger or worsen skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, which are characterized by inflammation, dryness and itching.

Lifestyle Tips to Improve Skin Health

GET ENOUGH SLEEP. A good night’s sleep is essential for skin health. It also helps reduce the impact of daily stress. Aim for no less than seven hours of shut-eye each night.

EXERCISE REGULARLY. Getting our bodies moving is essential to reduce stress levels and improve skin health by increasing blood flow, nutrient delivery and oxygenation to the skin.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET. “An anti-inflammatory diet full of fruits, veggies and healthy fats like those from seeds and nuts will help to keep skin healthy,” says Jennifer Scheinman, a registered dietitian and nutrition coach. “Foods rich in omega-3 fats like salmon and walnuts are great for skin health since they have natural anti-inflammatory properties, and the fats help to keep skin moisturized.”

PRACTICE STRESS-RELIEVING TECHNIQUES. Engage in activities that help manage stress, such as yoga, meditation or deep-breathing exercises.

APPLY SKIN-CARE PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR THE PERSON’S SKIN TYPE. According to Dr. Trevor Cates, author of Clean Skin From Within and Natural Beauty Reset, “The most important care tip is to find skin care with mild acidity [4.5 to 5.4 pH] and natural actives [plant-based extracts] that support the skin microbiome. A healthy skin microbiome means less chance for breakouts, blemishes and premature aging.”

According to Dr. Anne Marie Fine, author of Cracking the Beauty Code, “Air pollution has been demonstrated to prematurely age the skin and cause age spots. This is why you want to make sure to consume antioxidants and use antioxidant-containing, clean skin-care products.”

Therapies to Enhance the Skin

RED-LIGHT THERAPY DEVICES use infrared light to stimulate collagen production, improve circulation and promote healing. This reduces wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and other signs of aging.

MICROCURRENT FACIAL TOOLS use low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, helping to tone, reduce puffiness and promote a youthful appearance.

LASERS DESIGNED FOR HOME USE offer a safe way to treat various skin issues such as wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage and pigmentation problems. They can also help even out skin tone by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin.

GUA SHA is an ancient Chinese technique that involves gently scraping the surface of the skin with a special tool to increase blood flow, promote healing and reduce puffiness and inflammation.

OXYGEN TREATMENTS infused into pores using a special device can help nourish skin cells, decrease inflammation, reduce wrinkles and improve overall complexion.

FACIAL ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points to stimulate energy flow, which may improve circulation, reduce tension and promote smoother skin.

FACIAL MASSAGE reduces wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. It promotes circulation, drainage and toning.

David J. Sautter is a certified personal trainer specializing in fitness nutrition and sports conditioning, as well as a professional fitness writer. Learn more at WriteFit.com.

Women’s Wellness Profile Section

Health and wellness apply to all of us, all the time. In this Women’s Wellness issue, it’s fitting that we shine a spotlight on local practitioners and businesses that offer services and modalities for everyone and that want to showcase their specific expertise in women’s wellness.

The approach to health and wellness is changing, and a new class of physicians and practitioners is treating the whole person rather than the symptoms of disease, helping clients achieve optimal health with lifestyle changes, medicine, herbs, supplements and modalities tailored to the individual.

No longer reaching for a prescription pad as often, functional and integrative doctors and practitioners are spending more time in consultations asking probing questions about a client’s current health-related choices to pinpoint the root cause of a problem and craft a customized solution.

Read through the next few pages and the rest of this issue, you’ll find a group of local practitioners committed to providing outstanding personal service to everyone with a level of expertise that will deliver to women, in particular, the means to achieve an integration of body, mind and soul. Enjoy the journey of creating the healthiest version of yourself.

BeBalanced Of Harrisburg Camp Hill and York

717-673-7046

BeBalancedCenters.com

BeBalanced uses a natural approach to hormone balance that aids with many symptoms, from weight gain to low energy, difficulty sleeping, thyroid issues, menstrual and menopausal concerns, depression, anxiety and more. Their strategic approach includes coaching, supplementation and looking at the whole person regarding stress, food sensitivities and gut health, which all affect hormone balance.

Modalities include professional-grade supplementation with health coaching, whole-food diet plans, relaxation therapy, stress management techniques, liver detoxification, food-sensitivity testing, mindset reset techniques and community support. Areas of specialty are hormonal balance, sleep, energy, anxiety and depression, gut health, food sensitivities and leaky gut.

Their philosophy is to aid in identifying the triggers creating the areas of concern and provide natural holistic solutions. They work with clients closely through a protocol to address mind and body. Owner Paget Rhee says, “We help women to change their story. Clients don’t accept weight gain as an expected part of getting older, nor will they tolerate sleepless nights, anxious thoughts, low energy, erratic moods or hot flashes getting in the way of showing up for their lives, every day better than the last. We do this through natural hormone balancing, working with your body to naturally balance key hormones that impact your weight, mood, sleep, energy and more. Although we primarily focus on supporting women, we also help the men in your lives find balance.”

Be Here Now Personal Training LLC

Drew Acklin

701 N. Mountain Rd., Harrisburg

717-514-5630 • DrewAcklin@gmail.com

BeHereNowHBG.com

Be Here Now is a holistic personal training center offering small group classes in addition to individual time with an assigned coach to address the client’s body, mind and soul and achieve a total-body holistic transformation. It is the only holistic training facility in the area specializing in women’s weight loss with a first-month money-back guarantee if the client does not enjoy the service for any reason. Modalities include corrective exercise, functional strength training, metabolic typing, dream design, reiki and vipassana meditation.

Specialties are weight loss, pain management, nutrition and fatigue, with an emphasis on educating clients on the importance of holistic health. Personalized programs teach foundational wellness with an inherently simple, fast and proven approach.

Their mission is to guide a holistic wellness revolution that inspires others to seek their truth of what it means to feel alive. They teach Paul Check’s 4 Doctors System that includes Doctor Diet – nutrition, Doctor Quiet – meditation, Doctor Happy – meaningful goals and Doctor Movement – strength training, cardio and circuits. Acklin says, “We help people lose weight, resolve pain and pursue their dreams so they can experience strength and freedom like never before. We love our clients, but we don’t want them to be stuck with us forever. We provide the tools needed to see quick results and lasting effects with sustainable routines for years to come.”

Carlisle BowenWork

Betsy Payne

616 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg

717-386-8279 • NoPayneNoGain@live.com CarlisleBowenWorkPA.net

Betsy Payne is a Bowenwork practitioner who has practiced at Carlisle Bowenwork for more than 10 years. She is a licensed massage therapist and CranioSacral Therapist offering a variety of services, using Scar Tissue Release technique to increase mobility, flexibility and create pain relief; using Voila Method to bring balance to joints and offer a unique way to achieve emotional release under stress.

With more than 25 years experience in the fitness industry, she continues to serve the community by teaching SilverSneakers group fitness and yoga classes in Carlisle. Her knowledge as a certified personal trainer adds to the ability to help and guide clients to improve their overall well-being.

Modalities include acupuncture, naturopathy, reiki, herbal medicine and supplements. She offers CranioSacral Therapy, Voila, massage and McLaughlin Scar Tissue Release. Specialties include fertility, hormonal imbalances, pain and fatigue, migraines, joint, structure balancing, Scar Tissue Release, hormonal imbalances, Emotional Release and more.

Payne says, “Our bodies know how to heal themselves. My goal is to help you get your body pain free and to a place where self-healing can begin.”

Carlisle Bowen Works is a holistic wellness facility offering many modalities to reduce stress, pain, and help bring the body back into balance.

wellness profiles

The Center of Balance LLC

Louise Kemper and Leslie Kemper-Punt

29 N. Jefferson St., Greencastle

717-643-1404 • CenterOfBalanceLLC@gmail.com

TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com

Twin sisters Louise Kemper and Leslie Kemper Punt share the holistic therapies that they know work with a retail shop featuring wellness products, handmade jewelry and artisanal gifts.

Services include a halotherapy salt booth, ion detox foot baths, essential oil Raindrop, auriculotherapy, reiki, full body reflexology, hypnosis coaching, stress management consulting, therapeutic art classes and vibrational sound therapy. All practitioners are trained and certified in the services they offer.

Specialties are detoxifying the body to address hormonal imbalances, and relieving pain and anxiety through touch therapy, energy work and coaching. Women’s health needs can be unique, and all services and/or education can be tailored for specific groups and wellness gatherings.

The center’s mission is to inspire, nurture and educate clients by promoting holistic healing modalities for wellness in all aspects of their lives, including spiritual support and caring guidance with a focus on helping them find balance and bring calmness.

Firefly Hollow Holistic Wellness

Tanya Jarrett

200 Farm Lane, York

717-814-9136 • FireflyHollowWellness@gmail.com

FireflyHollowWellness.com

Tanya Jarrett is a nutritional therapist, certified health and wellness coach and one of more than a dozen practitioners offering services at Firefly Hollow. Jarrett provides several modalities, including personalized nutrition with blood panel analysis, a metabolic balance program for energy, weight loss and more, Cryoskin – which includes Cryoslimming, toning and facials and the permanent elimination of fat cells, reduction of cellulite, and toning and firming – IonCleanse Foot Detox and infrared crystal detox with infrared “sauna” mat sessions.

Jarrett’s specialties are full nutrition and metabolic support involving blood panel analysis for hormone balancing, weight loss, addressing low energy, low libido and overall sluggishness. Plus, body contouring and toning for improved overall figure, skin and confidence. Her mission is to empower individuals to adopt sustainable strategies that help them thrive so that they can feel healthy and confident and fall in love with becoming the best version of themselves.

Firefly Hollow Holistic Wellness Center offers therapeutic massage and bodywork, holistic psychotherapy, nutrition, reiki and energy medicine, infrared crystal mat and PEMF therapy, intuitive consultations, workshops and continuing education for massage therapists. They are the sponsors of the New Visions Holistic Expo, celebrating its 21st year. With community being the foundation of Firefly Hollow, they offer in-person and online offerings. including the Mind Body Detox podcast, as well as online community and courses that support a full-spectrum integrative approach to wellness.

Happie Soul Wellness

Cristina L Dunbar

5000 Lenker St., Ste. 103, Mechanicsburg

717-254-7250

Cristina@HappieSoul.me

HappieSoul.me

Happie Soul

Wellness focuses on healing of the whole self; mind, body and spirit. The space is welcoming, calm and has an energy of love that can be felt upon arrival.

Modalities include aura photography, facials, body contour, teeth whitening, massage, medical massage, reiki, HAPPIE SOulMATICS, couples massage workshop, couples reiki, relaxation massage with reiki, gemstone water bottles (VitaJuwel), skin care products (Circadia), weight-loss sauna, light and sound therapy and much more.

Areas of specialty are pain relief, weight loss, skin care, mental health care, fatigue and hormonal imbalances. They are also approved as a continuing education unit (CEU) provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. Dunbar, who was the Bronze medalist in the Swedish American Massage Competition in July 2022, says, “In reflecting on my life, I’ve come to understand my purpose is to help others by offering guidance, clarity or the release of stress and anxiety to help bring you back to you. Balance created to simply BE. Happie Soul is where your evolution is our goal. You are the most important person in your life. When you're at your best, the world benefits. We're here to help you restore your confidence, self-worth and self-love. From reducing physical pain to processing emotional upsets, it's our honor and pleasure to help you find your inner Zen.”

Polished Salon Spa & Wellness Stacie Sheely

1200 Market St., Lemoyne, PA (West Shore Plaza)

717-975-9036

PolishedSpa1@gmail.com

PolishedSpa.com

Polished is a full-service salon, day spa and medi-spa that also offers wellness therapies in 7,000 square feet of beautiful, relaxing space. After 25 years in business, they are proud to be the West Shore’s most exclusive location for all things beauty, spa and wellness.

They provide lymphatic drainage, reiki, cupping, ashiatsu, Thai on the table, skin rejuvenation, anti-aging skin treatments, sauna with red light therapy, dry float bed for relaxation and mindfulness, a relaxation room, body contouring and PRP hair restoration.

They offer injectables such as Botox, fillers, PCDC, PRFM eye rejuvenation, Skin Rejuvenation with RF Microneedling and CO2 laser.

Their mission is helping people to look and feel their best by offering the most up-to-date treatments, products and services. They are always improving through continuing education, staying current with the latest trends and always treating staff and customers like family.

Owner Stacie Sheely says, “We understand that to be our most beautiful selves, we must be healthy from the inside-out. We are committed to our natural wellness services so that when combined with a healthy diet and consistent exercise, you’ll experience overall good health to go along with the beauty of glowing skin, stronger, healthier hair and stronger nails.”

Reiki by Rickie ~ ReikiSpace & Learning Place

Rickie Freedman

2793 Old Post Rd., Ste. 10, Harrisburg 717-599-2299 • Rickie@ReikiByRickie.com

ReikiByRickie.com

Reiki by Rickie ~ ReikiSpace & Learning Place offers heartcentered, energy-based workshops, sessions, classes and events. ReikiSpace, Harrisburg’s first reiki center, just celebrated its 10th anniversary and continues to grow with the addition of “enLIGHT10”, bringing together healers from all over the region to share their gifts.

Services include reiki, reflexology, REIKIssage, Angel Card readings, integrated energy therapy, spirit guide readings and others. Areas of specialty are fertility, hormonal imbalances, pain, fatigue, anxiety, sleep issues, stress management and low energy.

ReikiSpace is managed by the reiki healing principles of compassion, gratitude and service. Owner Rickie Freedman is conscious of the energy they radiate promoting peace in the community and world.

Reiki sessions may incorporate massage (including Indian Head Massage, Neck and Back Massage or Chakra Foot Massage), essential-oil aromatherapy, chakra healing and balancing, and intuitive personal growth guidance. Rickie says, “Reiki is a gentle, holistic, hands-on energy healing technique for stress management and deep relaxation. It is based on the principles that everything is made up of energy and the body has the ability to heal itself. When the energy throughout our body is in balance, the body is in the best position to heal itself – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.”

Sage Integrative Medicine

Vu Quoc Nguyen, M.D.

5015 E. Trindle Rd., Mechanicsburg 717-775-8100 • Info@SageMedicineWellness.com SageMedicineWellness.com

Sage is a holistic medical practice with board-certified providers that focuses on personalized and preventative medicine. The practice uses a whole-person approach to tailoring disease prevention and treatment by identifying root causes and takes into account differences in genes, environments and lifestyles.

Modalities include functional medicine, herbal medicine and acupuncture, integrative nutrition, health coaching, holistic psychology, massage and bodyworks, Craniosacral Therapy, IV nutrient therapy, regenerative therapies, mindfulness and meditation practices.

Specialties are chronic illnesses, gut health, immune-related conditions, hormone imbalances, thyroid dysfunction, brain and mental health, cardiovascular and metabolic health, health and fitness optimization.

Nguyen says, “Our mission is to promote health and wellness by partnering with our patients using a whole-person approach to personalize treatment plans and disease prevention. We utilize science-based solutions to treat underlying causes and eliminate medication dependency to provide long-lasting results.”

A Real CBD American Shaman

by Linda Sechrist

Michael Reisinger is co-owner of American Shaman of PA, which operates four CBD American Shaman retail store locations in Carlisle, Harrisburg, Lancaster and Mechanicsburg. The company is dedicated to educating consumers and bringing wellness to the world through ultra-concentrated, terpene-rich CBD oil derived from all natural, high-quality industrial hemp and delivered via affordable, cutting-edge products.

Reisinger’s story is full of unexpected and interesting twists, risks, loss, mistakes, lessons learned, failures and inspiring success. The man had addiction issues, and alcohol was his drug of choice until 2016 when a third DUI took him to a rehab center. “It wasn’t a choice, but it was my chance to get my kids back and show them that I was trying to change and get better,” he says.

He read a book by Dr. Joe Dispenza, You are the Placebo, just before entering rehab. “In essence, it reminded me of Henry Ford’s quote, ‘Whether you think you can or you think you can’t— you’re right.’ My mindset, determination and approach to rehab was going to determine my success or failure,” he relates. On a rollercoaster ride after rehab, Reisinger struggled, but success was finally his. Seven years of sobriety is something he is proud to celebrate today.

A friend invited Reisinger to work on a construction site in Texas. “I was going back to construction because it was what I knew. After a year, I realized why I got out. I’m not well-suited for it, and I needed to make a better income to be an entrepreneur and make enough money to live today and plan for tomorrow,” he says.

His next idea was buying an escape room amusement in Wichita, Kansas, but a trip there to investigate it proved fruitless. “I was there for five days, so I found a coffee shop with WI-FI to check out Wichita. Across the street was a CBD American Shaman. The rest, as they say, is history. The store owner gave me every piece of information he had on the benefits of CBD [cannabidiol, derived from the cannabis plant]. It took me five hours to get up enough courage to try the water-soluble CBD because I was afraid it was addictive. It was as if that last 10 percent of the inability to calm and keep my mind from catastrophizing was gone immediately. It scared the bejesus out of me because I thought I was high. I’d never felt more comfortable in my own skin. When the owner said, ‘You’re not high. It’s what it feels like to be rid of your anxiety,’ I knew right then and there I wanted everybody that ever suffered from anxiety and panic attacks to find relief with CBD, which also has so many other benefits.”

American Shaman CBD, the non-psychoactive part of marijuana that will not get people high, is legal in all 50 states and is derived from 100 percent organic, gluten-free, non-GMO hemp. It has no heavy metals or insecticides, and is batch tested using Ultra Performance Convergence Chromatography.

CBD is known to support and bring relief to the body and mind. This includes relieving stress, maintaining focus, pain management and more. Reisinger says, “We follow only the best industry standards, making our hemp oil the most effective and the highest quality on the market today. As a company, we are focused on the welfare of our customers and even provide a Compassionate Care program with discounts for those with chronic conditions, are low-income, or veterans. We offer competitive pricing and have a money-back guarantee policy. Perhaps what I’m most driven by is our commitment to education and customer service. Each person’s search for relief is unique and the best way they can learn if and how CBD may be a good fit for their needs is with a visit to one of our stores. Our certified consultants educate every client and suggest in-store samples. It’s our commitment to education and the in-store experience that sets us apart.”

Reisinger sums up, “Starting up wasn’t easy. My partners and I jumped through some serious hoops. We had to close one of our locations during COVID. We’ve persevered and have helped hundreds of people, and that’s really what this business is about.”

Locations: 404 E. High St., Carlisle (717-254-6643); 2250 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg (717-510-6686); 44 N. Queen St., Lancaster (717-874-5146); and 5224 Simpson Ferry Rd, Mechanicsburg (717-620-8532). For more information and free in-store samples, visit HempIsHealth.com. See ad on pages 4-5 and listing on page 40.

Michael Reisinger

SOLVING STRESS

HOLISTIC TIPS FROM LIFESTYLE DOCTORS

by Linda Sechrist

Medicine is changing as a new class of doctors endeavors to treat the whole person rather than the symptoms of disease, helping their patients achieve optimal health with lifestyle changes, medicine, herbs, supplements and modalities tailored to the individual. No longer reaching for a prescription pad as often, these functional and integrative physicians are spending an average of 45 minutes per office visit. Using their sleuthing skills and innovative skillsets, they ask probing questions about a patient’s current lifestyle and history, pinpoint the root cause of a problem and craft customized solutions.

To help someone manage stress, a functional or integrative doctor may suggest a daily dose of herbal tea, nightly entries in a gratitude journal, a visualization practice, brisk walks, gardening, art therapy, mindful meditation, a nutrient-rich diet that reduces food allergies, yoga poses and regular sessions of qigong or tai chi. Armed with an extensive list of better-for-you choices than addictive, prescription sleeping pills or tranquilizers, individuals are empowered to improve their health and eliminate stress. Studies suggest that 75 to 90 percent of illnesses are stress related. Getting to the root cause before it escalates into cardiovascular disease, depression or diabetes is what curious and compassionate doctors do.

“Because sleep is a great resolution to almost anything, it’s one of the first things I consider,” says Carrie Jones, a functional and naturopathic doctor in Portland, Oregon. “Stress can be physiological, caused by parasites, viruses, bacteria and toxins, as well as blood sugar imbalances. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleep, is stressful to the body, which is on alert all the time.”

According to Jones, finding ways to coax the body into feeling safe can help people relieve stress and get a good night’s sleep. “People rarely realize that basic things such as joy, play, laughter and a community of supportive people have anything to do with feeling safe enough to sleep deeply. It’s why I inquire about those things,” she explains.

Tips for Sounder Slumber

n Turn the thermostat down in the bedroom. A cool temperature combats insomnia.

n Snuggle under a weighted blanket. The gentle pressure signals the autonomic nervous system to go into rest mode.

n Install blackout shades. Light decreases melatonin, the sleep hormone.

n Avoid alcohol before bed, as it can disrupt the sleep cycle.

n Stop using electronics, including social media, television and phones, two hours before getting under the covers. The blue light emitted by screens restrains the production of melatonin.

Connecting and spending quality social time with friends helps to alleviate stress. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, advises, “Every day, stress causes the stress hormone cortisol to go up and oxytocin, the connecting hormone, to go down, lessening the desire to connect. It’s a double whammy for women in perimenopause and menopause, because hormones are declining, and stress overloads the already overtaxed endocrine system.”

Rebecca Hunton, personalized medicine doctor and founder of Radiantly Healthy MD, in Melbourne, Florida, coaches her patients to modify unhelpful habits. “I’m always looking for that one thing that patients can easily change. Sometimes it’s teaching them the difference between stress resilience and stress avoidance. A stress avoidance activity is spending two hours playing a game on your phone that leaves you beating yourself up and feeling like, ‘Why did I waste all that time?’ If, on the other hand, an activity leaves you feeling energized and wanting to tackle the other things on your to-do list, you just did a stress resilience activity,” says Hunton.

Stress Resilience Activities

n Meditation

n Prayer

n Chanting a mantra

n Expressing creativity, such as cooking or painting

Carol Penn is a dual board-certified physician and movement coach in New Jersey. While observing her 87-year-old father practicing qigong, a form of meditation in motion, she had an epiphany and saw a powerful life lesson occurring before her eyes. “Moving with strength and grace through his practice so close to the end of his life, it occurred to me that he was rolemodeling what it would be like for me to be kind to my future self. I teach my patients from this perspective, visualizing their future selves full of health, vitality, wonder and awe,” says the author of Meditation in a Time of Madness

Qigong has psychological and physical components, regulating the mind, body movement, breath and posture. “It balances and calms the autonomic, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems so that you feel less stress upon completion of the practice. Movements are designed to build longevity on a cellular level,” Penn explains.

According to Lorraine Maita, a board-certified functional and integrative doctor in New Jersey, “The body sends out hormonal fight-or-flight signals when it’s distressed. In the initial stages, there’s a release of adrenaline, followed by cortisol, keeping your body on high alert. To most people, stress is just worry, and they’re thinking they’re handling it, but stress can be like a viral program running in the background all the time. It’s still there whether you’re reacting to it or not, whether you’re stuffing it under the surface or not. It’s why you go to therapy with mental stress, or why you need someone to talk to for processing it.”

Maita is a proponent of alternative modalities that help people modulate the stress response. “I recommend HeartMath to my patients, which is self-regulation technology based on more than 32 years of scientific research on the psychophysiology of stress, resilience and the interactions between the heart and brain,” says the author of Vibrance for Life: How to Live Younger and Healthier.

Jaquel Patterson, a naturopathic physician and medical director of Fairfield Family Health, in Connecticut, might determine if her patient is suffering from chronic stress by testing their saliva for

cortisol levels in the morning and evening. Noting that her favorite teas for sleep and relaxation are chamomile and passionflower, she explains that passionflower is for someone that can’t fall asleep because there’s a radio playing in their head. “For dealing with stress, I like adaptogens, such as Siberian ginseng, rhodiola rosea, ashwagandha, holy basil and L-theanine. The stress response requires a lot of B vitamins, along with magnesium and vitamin C,” she says.

Citing Hal Elrod’s book The Miracle Morning, Patterson recommends starting every day with a set of stress-relieving rituals Elrod calls “Life S.A.V.E.R.S.” She explains, “S is for silence, like meditation. A is for affirmations. V is for visualization, so you can visualize how your day is going to

be. E is for exercise. R is for reading, and S is for scribing, writing things in a journal.”

Pointing out the differences between stress and anxiety, Patterson notes that anxiety is a continual rumination of thoughts, second-guessing and overthinking. Anxiety can cause stress, but stress can occur without anxiety. People with high anxiety sometimes have heart palpitations. Some stress is good for us. Without any stressors, Patterson cautions, we are unmotivated, lethargic and lacking in enthusiasm.

Technological Solutions to Quiet the Anxious Mind

n Reflect Orb: This handheld biofeedback device can help an individual

self-monitor their body’s physiology and learn to control the involuntary body-mind connection.

n Meditation apps: Insight Timer, Calm and similar apps offer guided meditations, relaxing music videos and meditation instruction for newbies and experienced practitioners.

n YouTube videos: Look for musical compositions with energy frequencies and binaural beats that encourage relaxation, promote positivity and decrease anxiety.

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for almost 20 years.

Natural Hormone Balancing at BeBalanced

by Sheila Julson

BeBalanced centers specialize in holistic hormone balancing. Through coaching and lifestyle strategies, women learn to identify lifestyle triggers that lead to hormone imbalances resulting in weight gain, low energy, insomnia, depression and low libido. Clients are taught how to balance hormones naturally through supplements, lifestyle changes and emotional support.

“These physical changes might not be your fault—maybe it’s your hormones,” says Paget Rhee, a multi-unit franchisee who owns BeBalanced centers in Harrisburg East, Harrisburg West and York. While serving for nearly two years as director of operations for BeBalanced, Rhee had the opportunity to purchase three more centers in Texas.

Rhee praises the staff at her Pennsylvania stores, which consistently rate among the top five in client success among the franchise. “We work hard and are very passionate about what we do. Our staff cares so much about our clients, and we take joy in giving other women opportunities to find fulfillment.”

Personal Success and the Quest to Help Others

Ten years ago, in her mid-40s, Rhee experienced work and family stressors, significant weight gain, depression and difficulty sleeping. Regular visits to the gym and dieting yielded no results. Through a friend, she learned about BeBalanced, and after going through the program, lost 60 pounds and regained physical and mental stamina. When she learned that BeBalanced was preparing to franchise, Rhee wanted in so she could help others experience the same satisfaction that she had. She opened the first BeBalanced franchise in Harrisburg, and today, there are 25 independently owned BeBalanced centers throughout the country.

A Different Approach to Hormone Balancing

Hormones control weight, body temperature, sleep and mood, Rhee explains. “We are different in that we’re not a synthetic hormone replacement option. Our program is a very natural hybrid of coaching, food supplementation and strategy, with a whole person approach.”

Clients begin the BeBalanced program via consultation with a wellness coach to determine if the program is a good fit. The coach looks at gut health, food sensitivities and stress levels. “Stress comes from many sources other than family and work,” Rhee says. “It can come from electromagnetic fields from smartphones, artificial lighting and preservatives and additives in our foods.”

The BeBalanced program typically lasts 14 weeks. For the first month, wellness coaches work with clients to remove elements that trigger hormone imbalances and introduce

natural progesterone, relaxation techniques and foods to improve gut health, insulin levels and blood sugar. Clients are counseled on proper exercise levels. Rhee says during the first month, women typically lose 15 to 20 pounds as they better understand their bodies and naturally balance their hormones.

In the following weeks, the client begins a rebuilding process that introduces foods and lifestyle habits to support natural hormone balance. The last four weeks of the program take a deep dive into nutrition, which includes determining whole foods that best support hormone health, understanding carbohydrates and guidance on supplements. BeBalanced carries their own line of professional-grade food and herbal supplements.

The wellness coaches go through rigorous hormone balance training through the BeBalanced home office. All staff participate in monthly science training with a medical advisor. Rhee notes that many of their wellness coaches have backgrounds in nutrition or healthcare prior to joining BeBalanced.

Rhee observes how there are many synthetic hormone replacement options available, but the BeBalanced approach offers natural ways to boost the body’s own ability to make hormones at any age.

“We want to see our clients thrive and live their highest quality of life at any age,” Rhee says. “This is a challenging program, and it’s never easy stepping out of your comfort zone. But when you overcome it, you can focus on your next dream or purpose. Because of this program, I’ve done things I wouldn’t have done before—my daughter and I climbed Machu Picchu. It allows me to live a life that I probably wouldn’t have if I had continued on the trajectory that I was on.”

BeBalanced is located at 5201 Jonestown Rd., in Harrisburg, (717-673-7046); 3812 Market St., in Camp Hill, (717-673-7046); and 2331 E. Market St., in York, (717-6737046). For more information, visit BeBalancedCenters.com. See ad on page 2, profile on page 17 and listings on page 41.

Paget Rhee

Taking Control of Our Hormones

NUTRITIONAL TIPS TO SUPPORT THE DELICATE BALANCE

by Sheila Julson

Think of hormones as the body’s messengers, sending signals that affect a host of functions. Produced by the pancreas, thyroid and other endocrine glands and organs, hormones drive our metabolism, impact mood, regulate blood pressure, manage our sleep cycles, influence sexual function and more. Key players are insulin, cortisol, thyroid and growth hormones, adrenaline, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

Keeping these hormones in proper balance is critical for health, and imbalances can lead to a wide range of effects, including diabetes, thyroid disease, unintended weight fluctuations, skin problems, fatigue, mood swings and infertility. While inactivity, stress, age and genetics impact hormone production, our food choices can significantly tip the scales.

Dr. Ann Lee is a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When treating hormonal, thyroid and adrenal imbalances, she says it is important to focus on foods that provide the minerals and vitamins that support those systems. For women of all ages, she recommends blueberries, asparagus, lettuce, celery and papaya. Teens and women in their 20s can also benefit from apples, bananas, mangoes, avocados, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and most lettuce varieties. The nutrients in these vegetables and fruits become even more important as women reach 30 and for those dealing with menopause, so Lee recommends more frequent consumption of these fresh, whole foods to support the adrenal and thyroid glands.

According to Lee, it is equally important to avoid foods that interfere with hormonal nutrition. She advises women over 50 to lower their caffeine intake. Dairy products contain naturally occurring hormones that can impede human hormone balance and should be eaten in moderation. “The less external hormonal exposure you have, the easier it is for your own hormones to balance,” Lee explains.

Despite the popularity of intermittent fasting, Lee believes that the trendy eating pattern can deny the body the vitamins and minerals it needs, causing it to produce more adrenalin and cortisol to make up for the loss. “People do intermittent fasting because it might feel good to have more adrenalin, and thus more energy, but it does come at a price—your hormones,” she says.

Most of the foods Lee recommends are low in calories. “In order to curb hunger, you have to eat them regularly, and that goes against intermittent fasting. People that do intermittent fasting often focus on

KALE AND TEMPEH TACOS

In this yummy, low-carb taco recipe, cabbage leaves substitute for the tortillas and are filled with a mixture of proteinpacked tempeh, veggies and lots of great spices. Compounds in tempeh called isoflavones serve as a natural remedy for menopausal relief.

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, chopped

4 oz tempeh, cubed

½ tsp sea salt or more, to taste

½ tsp black pepper or more, to taste

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp chili powder

¼ tsp paprika

¼ tsp cayenne

¼ cup vegetable broth

2 cups stemmed and chopped fresh kale

4 to 6 large, green cabbage leaves, dipped for 30 seconds into hot water to soften

½ avocado, sliced

1 radish, sliced

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

½ lime, cut into wedges

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic and tempeh and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika and cayenne, stir, then add the

broth and kale. Stir again to combine and cook until the broth thickens and reduces by at least one-half. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Spread the cabbage leaves open on a large plate. Spoon the kale mixture into the center of the leaves. Add some of the avocado, radish slices and cilantro, then fold in the sides like a taco.

Serve with lime wedges.

Adapted from MenuPause. Copyright © 2022 by Dr. Anna Cabeca. Used by permission of Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, New York. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

cabe/Courtesy of Random House

proteins and fats, so they don’t have to eat for a long time, but that can cause adrenal burnout because the body is not getting what it needs,” she explains, noting that avocados and potatoes tend to help people feel full longer.

Jaclyn Downs is a functional nutrigenomics practitioner in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and author of Enhancing Fertility Through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve ‘Unexplained’ Infertility. She notes that for hormones to be produced by the body, nutritional cofactors or “helper nutrients” are required. “Magnesium, zinc and B vitamins are a few of the spark plugs that move these processes and keep the wheels spinning,” she emphasizes. “Grass-fed beef liver or capsules contain all of these.”

According to Downs, menstrual problems can be an indicator of eventual fertility issues. To support female reproductive hormones, she recommends cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, broccoli sprouts, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. These foods also support liver detoxification pathways due to their high concentrations of vitamins and sulfur. “The liver helps clear used or ‘dirty’ hormones,” she notes.

Downs also recommends pomegranates, which are rich in antioxidants and fight inflammation-producing free radicals. Healthy fats from cold-water, wild-caught fish support pregnant women and growing fetuses. “Folate is often emphasized as a nutrient for pregnant women, but choline is just as important for everybody, regardless of life stage or gender,” Downs notes. Choline is found in egg yolks, sunflower lecithin and shiitake mushrooms. For 50-plus women, Downs prescribes fish or high-quality fish oil, which can benefit brain, liver and hormonal health.

VANILLA AND FIG SCONES WITH PISTACHIOS

A great dessert or breakfast treat, a scone is a baked good usually made with wheat flour and butter. This recipe calls for almond flour instead to reduce the carbs and increase the nutrition. The pastry has been enjoyed in Scotland since 1513, and its name probably derives from the Dutch word for bread. Figs and pistachios sweeten the scones and give them a bit of crunch.

YIELD: 6 TO 8 SCONES

2½ cups almond flour

½ tsp sea salt

½ tsp baking soda

⅓ cup coconut oil, melted

¼ cup honey

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup chopped dried figs, plus some for garnish

½ cup pistachios, roughly chopped

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, salt and baking soda. In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, eggs and vanilla. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry until thoroughly combined. Fold in the ½ cup of figs and the pistachios.

Place the dough on the baking sheet and shape into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Cut into squares and then cut the squares diagonally into triangular wedges. Separate the wedges so they are about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking. Press a few pieces of fig into the top of each wedge.

Bake for 12 to 17 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in a scone comes out clean. Let cool for 30 minutes on the baking sheet, then serve.

Adapted from MenuPause. Copyright © 2022 by Dr. Anna Cabeca. Used by permission of Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, New York. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca

While inactivity, stress, age and genetics impact hormone production, our food choices can significantly tip the scales.

Trevor Cates, ND Stress Impact on Skin

Jaclyn Chasse, ND Stress and Fertility

Carol Penn, DO Aging Gracefully

Carrie Jones, MD, FAAP Stress and Your Thyroid

Jaquel Patterson, ND, IFMCP Sleep, Cortisol and Its Relation to Stress

Anna Cabeca DO, OBGYN, FACOG Stress and Libido

Arti Chandra, MD, MPH Healing Your Gut

Anne Marie Fine, ND Cracking the Beauty Code

Kela Smith, PhD, DNM Stress and Fertility

Jyl Steinbeck Women’s Health and Homeopathy

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Weight Loss for Women is Different Than Men

by Drew Acklin

Women lose weight differently than men. One primary way they vary lies in their physiology. A statistical fact is that women have less muscle mass than men. Muscle mass increases how many calories are burned at rest because they require more energy—therefore, before men even set out to lose weight, resistance train or monitor their nutrition, they are dealt a favorable hand. Not only do men naturally have more muscle mass, but they typically have more testosterone which results in more muscle mass gained as a response to resistance training.

Women have more body fat—about 6 to 11 percent more, according to studies at the University of New South Whales. This additional body fat is thought to be from an evolutionary adaption to benefit women while they’re pregnant. During pregnancy, women are also likely to add additional fat and can have complications through menopause and perhaps PCOS (a condition characterized by a hormonal imbalance that makes weight loss more difficult and causes menstrual irregularity).

Because of these differences, women often lose weight slower. This is why it is important for them to remain patient, consistent and full of self-love through their process. Women may be reading this and saying to themselves, “It’s not fair!” But, not to fear, here are three ways women can achieve their weight-loss goals:

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n Resistance Training: Men may have more muscle mass naturally and respond to weight training differently, but women can still add lean muscle mass to their bodies through resistance training. In doing so, they can burn upwards of 40 additional calories per day per pound of lean muscle mass gained. It’s also not a problem that women don’t have as much testosterone as men. That is the very thing that ensures they won’t get too bulky because of resistance training.

n Balance Hormones: Many women don’t think about turning to food as a remedy for hormonal issues that often lead to weight gain. Often, it is thought that medication is the only solution. However, it is diet that is integral to hormone health, especially by regulating gut health, which pharmaceutical drugs often disturb. Begin viewing food as medicine and learn to harness the power of women’s intuition; listen to the body, focus on organic, whole foods and eat quality protein, which reduces hunger and cravings.

n Do Nothing, Properly: High levels of stress can lead to chronically elevated cortisol, a stress hormone. When cortisol is high, cravings for carbohydrates are increased because the body intuitively knows carbohydrates combat cortisol. But if carbohydrates are eaten, insulin is spiked. When excess insulin and cortisol are released together, they create lipoprotein lipase (LPL) which is a fat-storing enzyme. The more of this enzyme women have, the more belly fat is stored. So, although it is tempting to give in to the fast pace of society and believe the only way to lose weight is by doing, often it is doing nothing properly that facilitates weight loss. Consider meditation, reducing caffeine, walks, quality sleep and unbound play.

Drew Acklin is the owner of Be Here Now, located at 701 N. Mountain Rd., in Harrisburg. He holds certifications as a NASM corrective exercise specialist and ACE personal trainer specializing in holistic barbell training, lifestyle coaching, pain, posture and weight loss. For more information, call 717-514-5630, email DrewAcklin@gmail.com or visit BeHereNowHBG.com. See listing on page 41 and profile on page 17.

This ad contains a liate codes to products. Natural Awakenings may receive a commission for purchases made through these codes.

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ANIMALS & PETS

Healing Creatures Hospital

Mella Luna Healing

BODYWORK & SPA

Carlisle Bowenwork

Firefly Hollow Holistic Wellness

Happie Soul Wellness

Polished Salon, Spa & Wellness

ReWeaving Balance

FOOD & RESTAURANTS

Kwee Jack Fish Co

PASA Sustainable Agriculture

Sonnewald Natural Foods

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Wegmans Food Market

HEALTH & WELLNESS

1881 Salt Sanctuary

BeBalanced Centers

Blue Mountain Acupuncture

Campisi Property Services LLC

CBD American Shaman

Colonial Dental Group

Energetic Transformations, LLC

Hershey Dental Associates

Infinite Mind Body Energy Spa

Joan-Marie Lartin

Loving Heart Blissful Soul

Mind Body Health Consultants

Natural Paths to Wellness

Positive Prime

Susquehanna Dental Arts

The Balance

The Rebel Herbalist

Wholistically Simple Rx

Wild Spirit Paths, LLC

HOLISTIC ARTS

Alta View Wellness Center

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PILATES & FITNESS

Be Here Now

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YOGA

Brownstone Station

Central PA Yoga Love Festival

Your Yoga

First Signs of Menopause

HOW TO RESOLVE VAGINAL DRYNESS

by Linda Sechrist

When The New York Times and National Geographic cover the subject of menopause in the same calendar year, perhaps it’s a sign that the inevitable phase of a woman’s life that ushers in vaginal dryness, irregular periods, hot flashes, brain fog, mood swings, night sweats, sleep problems, decreased sex drive and weight gain is finally getting the attention it deserves.

Solutions for women experiencing perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause are not covered in medical school. Instead, they stem from the work of pioneers like Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, author of What You Must Know About Women’s Hormones: Your Guide to Natural Hormone Treatments for PMS, Menopause, Osteoporosis, PCOS, and More, and Dr. Christiane Northrup, who wrote Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing.

Today, integrative and functional doctors, researchers and continuing education instructors are leading the charge to provide innovative and customized answers for women experiencing vaginal dryness and other hormone-related symptoms.

The earliest sign of changes occurs between the ages of 40 to 44, during perimenopause, and according to Dr. Lindsey Berkson, author of Safe Hormones, Smart Women, vaginal dryness is the flashing red light. “A sign of insufficient hormone signaling, vaginal dryness

is the body’s warning that bones are beginning to thin; the brain’s structure, activity and neuron connectivity are beginning to decline; and the aging process has begun,” she explains.

A continuing-education instructor for doctors and pharmacists, Berkson notes, “The vagina doesn’t exist alone. Treating only the vagina is minimized medicine. It’s so important to find a doctor who practices functional medicine, has completed continuing-education hours in hormone replacement therapy and nutrition, and has experience in these areas.”

Dr. Meena Malhotra, a double board-certified internist practicing functional and integrative medicine for 27 years, understands that vaginal tissue is hormonedependent, and dryness left untreated can lead to urinary tract infections that can progress to kidney infections. “Atrophic vaginitis with dryness, itching and burning doesn’t happen overnight; it happens gradually. Many women who are not seeing a gynecologist regularly for checkups are unaware of the gradual decrease of their progesterone and estrogen,” advises the founder of the Heal n Cure Medical Wellness Center, in Glenview, Illinois.

“Women generally self-treat sexual discomfort from dryness first with selfprescribed, over-the-counter gels, suppositories and creams, which are temporary fixes,” Malhotra says. “Functional medicine, which allows for longer appointments, in-depth intake and more intimate conversations, can determine the root cause of vaginal dryness, which can be treated early with FormaV, a non-surgical, painless rejuvenation procedure which tightens loose labia, improves vaginal health and makes

sexual intimacy desirable again.”

Known as “the girlfriend doctor”, triple board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Anna Cabeca has been in practice for 23 years and is the author of The Hormone Fix: Burn Fat Naturally, Boost Energy, Sleep Better, and Stop Hot Flashes, the Keto-Green Way. Recognizing that many over-thecounter lubricants perpetuate dryness and create damage to the tissue, she formulated her own products. “Inflammation can happen because of a reaction to the ingredients in the lubricant. I tell my patients that they can make their own lubricant using organic coconut oil mixed with aloe vera gel and a few drops of an essential oil that turns their partner on. They can also strengthen the pelvic floor with Kegel exercises and eat a keto-green diet,” Cabeca suggests.

Dr. Rebecca Hunton, the founder of Radiantly Healthy MD, in Melbourne, Florida, believes that treating the changes in a woman’s body is a form of personalized medicine. “Every woman’s journey

is different, but generally before vaginal dryness comes progesterone deficiency.

Symptoms include trouble falling asleep, anxiousness and moodiness,” she says, adding that not all vaginal dryness is hormone-related, as an autoimmune disorder could also be a cause.

Hunton recommends, “Starting early with a transdermal progesterone cream can mitigate some dryness, but at a certain point, progesterone won’t suffice. There are nonsurgical treatments such as MonaLisa Touch, a laser treatment that brings the tissue in the vagina to a more youthful state. It needs to be repeated every 18 months to two years.”

These doctors all agree that women no longer have to power through the changes. There are answers. As Cabeca asserts, “This is a time that heralds a second spring of our lives and should be a beautiful journey.”

Linda

May 13, 2023

Wild Teas

When I’m out on a woodland bimble or a full blown campout, one of my favorite things to do is to indulge in a cup of some of my favorite foragable teas.

Two of my favorites are White Pine and Eastern Hemlock trees. These are available year round, plentiful in my area, and good tasting to boot. This month we will go over how to identify them, where to find them, and some other uses for these 2 great trees.

I’ll also explain and demonstrate a brewing method for these teas. It was taught to me by an Old Woodsman, which was taught to him by his Grandmother in the Appalachian region of Virginia. Thus we continue a lineage of learning. You will be able to sample the teas, if you are so inclined, as long as our supplies last.

All of this, along with our usual mix of stories, shared experiences and folklore. So come see us at 9:00 at Sonnewald. We look forward to the get together.

Sechrist is a senior writer for Natural Awakenings

Bringing the Bounce Back

INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS FOR PETS WITH MOBILITY ISSUES

by Ruth Roberts, DVM

All pet owners want to see their animals live long, healthy lives filled with activity, but sometimes our furry friends find it difficult to move comfortably due to aging, injuries and other ailments. While vets often suggest surgery for certain debilitating conditions, less invasive treatments might be just as effective with considerably less risk, particularly for animals that cannot tolerate anesthesia.

For example, a 2013 University of Minnesota study focused on large-breed, overweight dogs with torn knee ligaments. Half of the dogs were treated with medical management consisting of weight loss, pain medication and physical therapy, and the other half received surgery to repair the torn ligament, followed by the same medi-

cal management. After a year, 75 percent of the dogs treated with surgery and medical management were considered treatment successes, based on leg function, quality of life and gait analysis. Surprisingly, 63.6 percent of the dogs that did not have surgery and received only medical management were also deemed successful cases. Before considering surgery or other invasive treatments, integrative pet mobility and rehabilitation (IPMR) might be a good way to help a pet regain its vitality without going under the knife. It is a holistic approach to helping pets recover from injuries, manage pain and improve mobility that combines various techniques to provide a comprehensive and personalized plan for each pet.

“It is all about educating pet parents and preserving the best quality of life for my patients,” says Dr. Joyce Gerardi, of Synergy Integrative Veterinary Clinic. “Over time, my special interests have grown to include platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate, adipose-derived and allogeneic amniotic stem cell therapies, acupuncture, food therapy, cold laser, herbal medicine, tuina massage, ozone and physical rehabilitation services.”

Here is a look at a few such modalities.

LASER THERAPY uses light energy to stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain. The procedure involves the application of laser light to the damaged area using a handheld device. The severity of the ailment and the location being treated determines the

length and frequency of treatments. The patient will feel a gentle, warm sensation as the laser technician or veterinarian moves the device over the affected area. Pets usually relax and take pleasure in the calming warmth of laser therapy, which is painless.

PHYSICAL THERAPY is an essential component of IPMR. It involves exercises and stretches that help pets regain strength and flexibility in their muscles and joints. A trained physical therapist can customize a plan that targets specific areas of concern such as the hips, knees or spine. This can help reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing pets to move around more easily and enjoy their favorite activities.

ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and promote healing. Acupuncture can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve circulation, all contributing to improved pet mobility.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE involves manipulating the spine to correct misalign-

ments and improve overall function. This can help pets with hip dysplasia, arthritis or spinal injuries.

MASSAGE involves gentle pressure and strokes to relax muscles, reduce pain and improve circulation. Massage can also help pets with anxiety or stress, which can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

NUTRITION: A well-balanced, nutrientdense diet can help with healing, inflammation reduction and overall health. A qualified veterinarian can recommend a diet plan tailored to each pet’s needs.

Easing a Pet’s Pain While in Treatment

Reducing a pet’s discomfort with fullspectrum cannabinoids or, if needed, prescription pain medications offers better comfort and recovery time. Another option is to reduce a pet’s stress by balancing its adrenal stress hormones.

Ruth Roberts is a holistic veterinarian and certified pet health coach with more than 30 years’ experience.

The Divine Messiness of Motherhood by

Marlaina Donato

The pitter-patter of little feet is one of life’s most beautiful blessings, but motherhood has always been a challenging role. In today’s world, the calling is more complicated than ever, and the average Mama Bear has a lot on her many plates. Despite support systems, juggling it all is often an obstacle course moms navigate behind closed doors.

It’s okay to not be okay. Society tends to impose unnecessary guilt upon mothers for voicing what most parents feel at one time or another. Feelings are human, and so too is being overwhelmed. Selfcare enables us to nurture others, and it begins by being gentle with ourselves as we weave a tapestry of work, soccer games, homework and bedtime baths. Even when the threads are haphazard and tangled, it is healing to surrender to the realization that sometimes we cannot do it all, and it is not a sign of failure. Showing only the good days on social media or going on autopilot can add pressure, instead of peace.

“There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one,” says author Jill Churchill. Being a good mother begins by being good to ourselves, and it doesn’t require a miracle to make it happen. A few minor routine adjustments can renew sanity and energy:

n Take one minute to run comfortably hot water over your hands and relax into the stream. Hot water helps the body release dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for inducing joyful feelings, lessening pain and lifting anxiety.

n Instead of scrolling through social media, take 10 or 15 minutes to do nothing. Lie down on the floor, close your eyes and just breathe. Surrender completely to letting go; begin by relaxing facial muscles and work your way down to your toes.

n Play a favorite song and dance with your kids.

n Avoid overscheduling and “shoulds”.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Beaunitta V W/peopleimages.com/AdobeStock.com

calendar of events

MONDAY, MAY 1

Blueberries for Books – May 1-July 5. Order fresh blueberries to support Fredricksen Library. A 10-lb box of blueberries fresh from Whalen Farms in New Jersey is $34; $35/ordered online. Order through July 5 with pick-up July 13. Fredricksen Library, 100 N 19th St, Camp Hill. 717-761-3900. FredricksenLibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Herb Garden Tour – 6-7:30pm. A fast-paced garden tour of our many herb gardens. In this seeing, tasting, touching tour you will learn about herbs for cooking, fragrance and medicine. Free. The Rosemary House, 120 S Market St, Mechanicsburg. 717-697-5111. TheRosemaryHouse.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Knowledge is Power: Salt Booth – 5-6pm. Learn all about the healing modality of using a salt booth and how it can be helpful for you. Free. The Center of Balance LLC, 29 N Jefferson St, Greencastle. 717-643-1404. TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com.

Paint Night – 6-8pm. Enjoy a stress-free night out with friends. You don’t need to bring anything; we’ve got it covered. $40. The Balance, 2201 Forest Hills Dr, Ste 9, Harrisburg. 717-877-7533. Password is PARTY: PaintingWithATwist.com/ studio/lancaster/event/3345377.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

Spoon Bending Party – 7-8:30pm. With John Stewart. Try your hand, and your mind, at mind over matter. The fun of psychokinesis and spoons is that the metal becomes very soft, almost like clay, and this provides time to twist, curl and bend the spoons to creative shapes. $21. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

savethedate

SATURDAY, MAY 6

York County Women’s Expo – 9am-2pm. Brings together women of all ages to shop, watch demonstrations, learn about products and services and be entertained. Exhibitors will represent beauty, home, health and wellness, fashion, shopping, finance, technology and more. Free. York Expo Center, Memorial Hall East, 334 Carlisle Ave, York. 717-285-1350. AGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com.

Reiki IIIA Master/Practitioner – 9:30am -5:30pm. With Mitch Adams. For those wanting to make a commitment to reiki and make it an important part of their lives. Will help to enhance your power when giving reiki treatments. $300. Reiki by Rickie, ReikiSpace & Learning Place, 2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg. 717-599-2299. ReikiByRickie.com.

Paws & Relax – 10am-4pm. Mini-sessions of canine massage, reflexology, reiki, henna art while benefiting Angles Among Us Animal Sanctuary. Gift certificate and gift basket raffle too. $20/20 mins. ReWeaving Balance, 5A Harrisburg Pk, Dillsburg. 717-798-5405. ReWeavingBalance.Earth.

Firefly Hollow’s Spring Open House – 11am-5pm. Discount services, free lectures and make-n-take workshops. $22. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

Healing Violin Meditation – 7-8pm. Professional violinist and yoga teacher Helena Lalita will guide students through gentle mindful movement and pranayama breathing practices for 10 mins. The following 50 mins will be a transcendental and ethereal experience of deep savasana and sound bathing. $26. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 7

Animal Communication Level 1 – 10am-4pm. With Dawn Tule. Learn tools to communicate with animals using telepathic communication. Listen to messages from animals and deepen your relationships. We all can communicate in this way. $185. ReikiSpace & Learning Place, 2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg. Must pre-register: 717-486-7823 or MellaLunaHealing.simpletix.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Creating Spiritual Support in Times of EcoGrief – 12-1pm. Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Spiritual Counselor and Chaplain Justin Ferko to explore the spiritual and emotional impact of climate change. 4-session eco-grief support groups begin May 23. Free. Via Zoom. 717-2205034. Register: Justin@WildSpiritPaths.com. WildSpiritPaths.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

Minimize Fear, Worry, and Negativity and Heal – 6-7:30pm. Small, inspirational group focused on mood/mindset to help you learn strategies and 10-second practical applications you can use in any event or meeting to help calm your nervous system and more. $25/person, $40/couples. Wholistically Simple Rx, LLC, 1000 Carlisle St, Ste 2225, Hanover. Registration required: 717-885-6638 or DrTiaMcLaughlin.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Knowledge is Power: Reflexology – 5-6pm. Learn all about the healing modality of reflexology for foot/body and how it can be helpful for you. Free. The Center of Balance LLC, 29 N Jefferson St, Greencastle. 717-643-1404. TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com.

Sound Healing Meditation – 7-8pm. With Julie Moffitt. Experience the beautiful sounds of healing and tranquility in this immersion/meditation. Hear the beautiful soothing sounds of metal and crystal singing bowls, chimes, gongs, drums and voice. $15. Reiki by Rickie, ReikiSpace & Learning Place, 2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg. 717-599-2299. ReikiByRickie.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Archangel Michael, Mother Mary, Padre Pio Channeling – 10am-4pm. With Pat Cassel. Messages from Archangel Michael and the Angels, and potent healing energies from Mother Mary and Padre Pio are awaiting you. $100/hr, $60/30 mins. Gracefull Heart, 1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle. Preregister: 717-240-0400 or GracefullHeart@verizon. net. Gracefull-Heart.com.

Mother’s Day Artist Market – 10am-4pm. Show your appreciation with a unique and handmade gift. Browse through a variety of crafts and artworks made by talented artists. Free. Carlisle Bowen Works, 616 W Main St, Mechanicsburg. 717-3868279. CarlisleBowenWorkPA.com.

Reiki II – 10am-5pm. With Heather Auxt-Snelson. Learn 3 reiki symbols and their mantras, how to empower your reiki, heal on the mental/emotional level, and send reiki long distance. Also learn how to practice in a clinical setting. $220. ReWeaving Balance, 5A Harrisburg Pk, Dillsburg. 717-9433765. ReWeavingBalance.Earth.

Springtime Tea Ceremony – 11:30am-12:30pm or 1:30-2:30pm. A rare opportunity to experience a true Japanese Tea Ceremony. Todd Frey, a sensei, (teacher of Japanese Tea Ceremony), will share his journey, tea history, matcha cultivation, and the health benefits of tea, as we taste this special tea. $20/person. Your Yoga, 1900 Orange St, York. 717-586-6494. YorkYourYoga.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

BodySpeak – 6:30-8:30pm. With Rickie Freedman. Your body speaks your story, and often shares what your words cannot. Learn to interpret the messages of your body, emotions and energy in this interactive workshop. $40. Reiki by Rickie, ReikiSpace & Learning Place, 2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg. 717-599-2299. ReikiByRickie.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Knowledge is Power: Vibrational Sound Therapy – 5-6pm. Learn all about the healing modality of vibrational sound therapy and how it can be helpful for you. Free. The Center of Balance LLC, 29 N Jefferson St, Greencastle. 717-643-1404. TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com.

Shamanic Journey and Sound Healing Around the Stargate – 7-9pm. With Linda Gareh-Applegate, Holly Blyler, Sharon Askey. Relax, rejuvenate and rebalance with potent sound healing. Sound can provide an opportunity to breakdown patterns no longer serving you. $20. Gracefull Heart, 1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle. Pre-register: 717-240-0400 or GracefullHeart@verizon.net. Gracefull-Heart.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 19

Outdoor Shamanic Journey for Healing and Clarity – 6-7:15pm. Connect with your animal and spirit guides to receive healing and clarity. Bring what you need to be comfortable in an outdoor setting + journal/pen. $15 donation. Trine Park, 362 W Pine St, Mt Holly Springs. 717-486-7823. MellaLunaStudios.abmp.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

International Tea Day – 10am-4pm. Celebrate the day with tea samplings at The Rosemary House. Enjoy both hot and cold teas. Samples will be set up in the pavilion so you can relax and enjoy the herb gardens. Free. The Rosemary House, 120 S Market St, Mechanicsburg. 717-697-5111. TheRosemaryHouse.com.

Intuitive Tarot Readings – 10am-4:30pm. With Judy Winfrey. Receive messages that offer clarity and guidance which can help you with everyday life as well as help open you to your own potential. $80/ hr. Gracefull Heart, 1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle. Pre-register: 717-240-0400 or GracefullHeart@ verizon.net. Gracefull-Heart.com.

Aware, Empowered, Wholeness – 1-5pm. An

experience of transformation and community for women with Woman’s Empowerment Guide, Gigi Jantos. $44. ReWeaving Balance, 5A Harrisburg Pk, Dillsburg. 717-943-4833. ReWeavingBalance.Earth.

SUNDAY, MAY 21

savethedate

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Trauma & Grief Support Group – 11am-1pm. Join Carrie Tetkoskie, RN, BSN, for her monthly support group. Carrie will also review techniques designed to heal your nervous system, physiological and psychological well-being. $13. Sage Integrative Medicine & Wellness, 5015 E Trindle Rd, Mechanicsburg. Pre-register: 717-775-8100 or SageMedicineWellness.com.

MONDAY, MAY 22

Reiki II – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Rickie Freedman. Empower your reiki and enhance your skills and confidence. Learn to heal on the underlying mental/emotional/stress level source techniques for distance healing. $220. Reiki by Rickie, ReikiSpace & Learning Place, 2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg. 717-599-2299. ReikiByRickie.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Eco-Grief Support Group – 12-1:30pm. 4th Tues, May 23-Aug 22. Join Forest Therapy Guide, Spiritual Counselor and Chaplain Justin Ferko and a community committed to journeying with ecogrief. Limit 8. $30/4 sessions. Free. Via Zoom. 717-220-5034. Register: Justin@WildSpiritPaths. com. WildSpiritPaths.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

Medications Causing Overwhelm, Frustration, Confusion? – 6-7:30pm. A small group class focused on learning to organize your medications, understand their beneficial and side effects, how to do own research and how to get the most out of your doctor appointments. $25/person, $40/couples. Wholistically Simple Rx, LLC, 1000 Carlisle St, Ste 2225, Hanover. Registration required: 717-8856638 or DrTiaMcLaughlin.com.

Group Sound Meditation – 6-8pm. 4th Wed. With Matthew Kramer. Intention setting, gentle breath work and vocalizing, a relaxing journey of various overtone emitting instruments such as chimes, drums, rainsticks, rattles, handpan, and singing bowls, followed by sharing and processing. $33. ReWeaving Balance, 5A Harrisburg Pk, Dillsburg. 717-943-4833. ReWeavingBalance.Earth.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

Knowledge is Power: Coaching and Hypnosis

– 5-6pm. Learn all about the healing modality of coaching with hypnosis and how it can be helpful for you. Free. The Center of Balance LLC, 29 N Jefferson St, Greencastle. 717-643-1404. TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

Create Your Chart of Origin using the Archetypal Wheel – 6-8pm. Learn your individual archetypes that create patterns in your life, and discover where they are in your wheel, which corresponds to the 12 houses of the zodiac. $40. Blue Morpho Wellness, 9 N Baltimore Ave, Mt Holly Springs. 717-486-7823. MellaLunaHealing.simpletix.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Yoga + Sip Saturday – 10-11am. Enjoy an outdoor all-levels yoga class at a beautiful winery. Walk-ins welcome. Please bring your own mat or large beach towel. Walk-ins welcome. Weather permitting. $10. The Winery at The Long Shot Farm, 1925 McClures Gap Rd, Carlisle. 717-486-7823. MellaLunaStudios.abmp.com.

Gendai Reiki: Level I – 11am-5pm. With Emily Weber. Receive the initial attunements to the energetic flow of reiki. Learn the basic hand positions to direct the flow reiki and start spreading the healing energy of the Universe. $185. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

plan ahead

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Foot Reflexology Certification Course – 9am. Learn the basics of foot reflexology so you can begin your own business or work on family and friends. Don’t let the high price and requirements of other courses keep you from this important healing work. NCBTMB provider #155. 10 CEUs. $325. Health Quest Holistics, 1517 N 7th St, Lebanon. Details: 717-228-0612 or HealthQuest4Life.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Dauphin County Women’s Expo – 9am2pm. Brings together women of all ages to shop, watch demonstrations, learn about products and services and be entertained. Exhibitors will represent beauty, home, health and wellness, fashion, shopping, finance, technology and more. Free. Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr, Hershey. 717-285-1350. AGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 15

Sounds of the Sanctuary – 7pm. Experience the Sound Immersion Healing in our beautiful sanctuary. Allow the vibrations of the gongs, singing bowls, chimes and other instruments to align your body, mind and soul. Performed by Gwen Ward, PhD, ND. $20 love offering. Unity of Palmyra, 37 E Main St, Palmyra. 717-228-0612. HealthQuest4Life.com.

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healthy kids

Microplastic Overload

Reducing Childhood Exposure

Exposure to plastics, microplastics and nano plastics is inevitable. Synthetic, petroleumbased polymers pose a potential risk to everyone, including kids. Much can be done to limit children’s exposure.

green living

Gardening Therapy

Healing Mind, Body and Spirit in the Yard

Gardening outdoors adds color and texture to yards and neighborhoods, attracts pollinators, and can also improve human health.

wise words

Carol Penn on Finding Calm in a Chaotic World Double board-certified in family and obesity medicine, and a movement, meditation and mindset coach, Penn teaches people to prioritize self-care to achieve their best and highest selves.

eco tip

Gifts for Mom

Earth-Friendly Delights for Mom

Consider putting an ecological spin on Mother’s Day by showering her with gifts that honor Mother Earth. Read for some sustainable gifting ideas.

health brief Ashwagandha May Improve Women’s Sexual Experience

for latest updates & to share your comments

health brief Seniors Avoid the Hospital With Nature

New research has found that exposure to natural environments may reduce the risk of hospitalization for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias and Parkinson’s disease.

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community resource guide

This print guide connects you to local leaders in our community. The u symbol at the end of a listing indicates the practitioner also has a Premium Online Business Listing in the Directory at NaturalCentralPA.com, where they share more information, offers, coupons, reviews, events, articles, videos and photos. For a compilation of all premium online business listings in the Online Directory & Local Guides, see page 31.

ACUPUNCTURE

CENTRAL PENN ACUPUNCTURE AND WELLNESS

Carolyn Romako

940 Century Dr, Ste D, Mechanicsburg

717- 610-4911 • CentralPennAcupuncture.com

We’ve been Central Pennsylvania’s center for compassionate, thorough and evidence-based acupuncture for 10 years. Our location is easily accessible with evening and weekend hours. Specialties include pain management and women’s health.

GIDDINGS ACUPUNCTURE PRACTICE, LLC AND ZEN & NOW APOTHECARY

Rhonda Giddings

4814 Jonestown Rd, #101, Harrisburg

717-657-1951 • GiddingsAcupuncture.com

A practice of healing art techniques from acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, massage, herbs and energy work to help patients and clients reach their individualized optimal health and vitalized longevity.

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION

MELLA LUNA HEALING

Dawn R. Tule

717-486-7823 • MellaLunaStudios.abmp.com

Dawn provides compassionate service to deepen the understanding between you and your pet, whether in physical form or in spirit. Gain insight into what your animal friend is thinking and feeling. u

BODYWORK

ARVIGO MAYA ABDOMINAL THERAPY®

309 Third St, New Cumberland

Jaque Hanson • 717-448-1281

Jaque@BeePresentWellness.com

The Arvigo ® session is a noninvasive treatment that repositions internal organs that have shifted by opening the flow of blood, lymph, nerve and Chi. Infertility, digestive and other benefits. Visit BeePresentWellness.com for details. See ad, page 8. u

CARLISLE BOWENWORK

Nancy Bittinger

616 W Main St, Mechanicsburg

717-386-8279 • CarlisleBowenworkPA.com

Bowenwork is renowned for its effectiveness in stimulating true healing from within. Through gentle yet powerful moves, even chronic problems “unwind” and balance is restored. See profile, page 17. u

THE CENTER OF BALANCE, LLC

Louise Kemper, RMI, Reflexologist, EOP, Artist Leslie Kemper Punt, Holistic Health Practitioner 29 N Jefferson St, Greencastle 717-643-1404 • TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com

We offer reiki, foot/body reflexology, auriculotherapy, essential oil treatments, coaching and hypnosis for wellness and soul nourishment. Our unique retail shop features holistic, vegan and natural products, artisan jewelry, clothing, accessories and more. See profile, page 18. u

CBD

CBD AMERICAN SHAMAN OF PA

Harrisburg • Mechanicsburg

Carlisle • Lancaster

717-620-8532 • HempIsHealth.com

We use proprietary nanotechnology and ultra-concentrated terpene rich CBD oil derived from all natural, high-quality,100% organic, gluten-free, nonGMO industrial hemp. Helps relieve stress, maintain focus, manage pain, calm digestion and more. See ad, pages 4 and 5. u

COACHING

ENERGETIC TRANSFORMATIONS

Ali Long

Virtually or Adams/York County TransformNow333@gmail.com et4u.org

Enhance and transform the whole you (mind, body and spirit). Ali provides one-on-one coaching that leverages a proven self and leadership discovery approach, coupled with biofeedback data, for a highly personalized and effective growth journey that will support you in both your life and in your career. u

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

LOVING HEART BLISSFUL SOUL

Carrie Tetkoskie, RN 5015 E Trindle Rd, Mechanicsburg 717-775-8100

LovingHeartBlissfulSoul@gmail.com

A Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) practice. CST promotes the body’s ability to heal and bring itself back to balance. Carrie incorporates her critical care experience as a RN, psychology degree and training to optimize treatments and help to relax the nervous system, better regulate emotions and reduce tension within the body. u

THE ROOTS OF HEALTH

Rachel Benbow, LMT, BA, MLIS 3540 N Progress Ave, Ste 106, Harrisburg 717-831-6936 • TheRootsOfHealth.com

Rachel relieves pain and frees blockages using CranioSacral Therapy or massage. From stress reduction, to illness/injury/surgery recovery, to management of autism/ADHD, your therapeutic experience is individualized. MSG009527.

DENTISTRY – HOLISTIC

HERSHEY DENTAL ASSOCIATES, LLC

Ryan Buehner, DMD, FAGD, AIAOMT 273 Hershey Rd, Hummelstown 717-220-1792 • HersheyDental.com

Provides full service family dental care, mercury-/metal-free options, fluoride-free, safe mercury removal, biocompatibility testing for dental material sensitivities, in-office ozone treatments, clear aligner orthodontics, Bruxism/tooth grinding guards. See ad, page 9. u

HERSHEY DENTAL ASSOCIATES, LLC

Carol Layton, DMD, MAGD, AIAOMT, NMD 273 Hershey Rd, Hummelstown 717-220-1792 • HersheyDental.com

Provides full service dental care, mercury/metal free, including safe removal of mercury. Biocompatibility testing for individual choice of materials; use of ozone for protection. See ad, page 9. u

SUSQUEHANNA DENTAL ARTS

Dr Owen Allison, DMD 100 S 18th St, Columbia, PA 17512 717-684-3943 or 717-285-7033

SusquehannaDentalArts.com

A full-service family dental practice providing 100% mercury-free restorations, quality non-surgical periodontal care, INVISALIGN, implant retained dentures and partials. See ad, page 11. u

DENTISTRY – WELLNESS COLONIAL DENTAL GROUP

Tammy del Sol, DMD

4940 Linglestown Rd, Harrisburg

717-901-7045 • CDGWellness.com

Our focus on Wellness educates and motivates patients to care for their overall health. We no longer place mercury fillings, nor encourage ingestion of fluoride for children or adults. We educate and safely serve our patients and protect the environment. See ad, page 33. u

HOLISTIC PERSONAL TRAINING BE HERE NOW

Andrew Acklin, CPT, CES, HLC 701 N Mountain Rd, Harrisburg  717-514-5630 • BeHereNowHBG.com

Be Here Now is a holistic training center with multiple offerings in one location. They offer a holistic approach to weight loss, strength training and pain and posture. Within each process, the individual’s wellness is deeply addressed with tools such as: personal training, lifestyle coaching, reiki, nutrition, meditation and business and life coaching. See profile, page 17. u

HORMONE BALANCEWEIGHT LOSS

BEBALANCED OF CAMP HILL

Anne Portelles, Manager

3812 Market St, Camp Hill

717-673-7046 • BeBalancedCenters.com

Natural approach to hormone balance that aids with many symptoms from weight gain to low energy, difficult sleeping, thyroid issues, menstrual and menopausal concerns, depression and anxiety and more See ad on page 2 and profile on page 17. u

BEBALANCED OF HARRISBURG

Shelly Gordon, Manager

5201 Jonestown Rd, Harrisburg

717-673-7046 • BeBalancedCenters.com

Natural approach to hormone balance that aids with many symptoms from weight gain to low energy, difficult sleeping, thyroid issues, menstrual and menopausal concerns, depression and anxiety and more. See ad on page 2 and profile on page 17. u

BEBALANCED OF YORK

Jennifer Robinson, Manager

2331 E Market St, York

717-673-7046 • BeBalancedCenters.com

Natural approach to hormone balance that aids with many symptoms from weight gain to low energy, difficult sleeping, thyroid issues, menstrual and menopausal concerns, depression and anxiety and more. See ad on page 2 and profile on page 17. u

INTERSPIRITUAL COUNSELING

WILD SPIRIT PATHS, LLC

Justin Ferko, Ed.M., MTS

Camp Hill — Virtual Offerings

717-220-5034

• WildSpiritPaths.com

Deepen your connection to your higher power, spiritual practices, mysticism, sacred story and the Earth. A certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide and a trained and experienced interspiritual counselor, Justin supports your journey to wholeness, by facilitating sacred space and offering deep listening, exploration and tools for reflection. One-on-one sessions via zoom or phone. Free 30-minute initial consultation. LGBTQIA+ owned business. u

MASSAGE

HAPPIE SOUL WELLNESS

Cristina L Dunbar, LMT

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Heather DeLuca, BS, ND

1524 Cedar Cliff Dr, Camp Hill

717-494-4500 • NaturalPathsToWellness.com

Heather is part of a unique, collaborative naturopathic practice in central PA. She provides a safe, effective and affordable alternative to conventional health care. See ad, page 12. u

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Jessica Shoemaker, BS, ND

1524 Cedar Cliff Dr, Camp Hill

717-494-4500 • NaturalPathsToWellness.com

Jessica is the owner of Natural Paths to Wellness where nutritional therapies, alternative modalities and functional medicine testing are combined to create an individualized holistic approach to health. See ad, page 12. u

• HappieSoulMassage.com

5000 Lenker St, Ste 104, Mechanicsburg 717-254-7250

Our focus is on integrative healing of body, mind and soul. We identify the root cause of discomfort and assist with physical and emotional healing. Also, massage with reiki, reiki for emotional support, couples’ reiki, light therapy/full spectrum sauna, body sculpting and more. Ask about our referral program. We all deserve to be Happie Souls. See ads on pages 8 and 15, and profile on page 18. u

METAPHYSICAL

GRACEFULL HEART

Sharon Askey

1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle 717-240-0400

• GraceFull-Heart.com

Gracefull Heart provides a peaceful, loving and supportive space to assist in your journey toward wholeness/ healing. Crystals, books, gemstones, jewelry, statues, incense, oracle cards (plus sample decks), crystal and metal singing bowls, pendulums and much more. See ad, page 13

NATUROPATHIC HEALTHCARE

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Leia Anderson, BA, MS, ND

1524 Cedar Cliff Dr, Camp Hill 717-494-4500 • NaturalPathsToWellness.com

Leia is part of a unique, collaborative naturopathic practice in central PA. Her passion is providing safe, effective and individualized care for the whole family. See ad, page 12. u

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Ashlyn Zikmund, BS, ND

1524 Cedar Cliff Dr, Camp Hill

717-494-4500 • NaturalPathsToWellness.com

Ashlyn's enthusiasm for wellness and nutrition makes her a tremendous addition to NP to W. As a Naturopathic Doctor, she partners with patients to solve difficult acute and chronic health issues. See ad, page 12. u

SONNEWALD NATURAL FOODS

Good health comes from the farm...Not the Pharmacy! Sonnewald Natural Foods has 300+ bulk foods, organic produce, supplements, books and more, and has been in business for more than 60 years, serving Central PA and beyond. Follow us on Facebook for daily, weekly and monthly offers and special events

In-store Nature’s Marketplace features natural foods, supplements, herbal remedies, and foods for special dietary needs. See ad, page 35. u

When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.

~John Muir

NUTRITIONIST

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Sarah Glunz, MS, CNS, LDN

1524 Cedar Cliff Dr, Camp Hill 717-494-4500 • NaturalPathsToWellness.com

Sarah will design your optimal nutrition plan for managing your weight, food allergies or sensitivities, or medical condition while helping you to improve your relationship with food. She breaks down the plan you need to follow to accomplish your health and wellness goals into reasonable action steps providing support along the way. See ad, page 12. u

REFLEXOLOGY

REWEAVING BALANCE

Beth Baublitz

5A Harrisburg Pike, Dillsburg 717-943-4833 • ReWeavingBalance.earth

Beth offers a variety of reflexology options ranging from pure relaxation to assisting in pain relief with a reiki touch; plus ReConnection Sessions, a clientled journey of body, mind and spirit unique for each individual. Check their online business listing for a variety of creative and connecting workshops offered at various times throughout the year. u

REIKI

REIKI BY RICKIE

Rickie Freedman, ReikiSpace & Learning Place

2793 Old Post Rd, Ste 10, Harrisburg 717-599-2299 • ReikiByRickie.com

Rickie Freedman, Reiki Master/ Teacher, P.T., offers the Gentle Touch, Deep Healing and Balancing of “Reiki by Rickie” sessions, as well as unique Therapeutic Massage including Indian Head Massage and Chakra Foot Massage. She teaches Reiki classes and workshops on stress management, positive attitude and more. See ad on page 16 and profile on page 19. u

SALON SPA & WELLNESS

POLISHED SALON SPA & WELLNESS

Stacie Sheely

1200 Market St, Lemoyne (West Shore Plaza) 717-975-9036 * PolishedSpa.com

We provide you with the best salon, spa, medical spa and wellness experience so that you look great and feel your best. Wellness is fast becoming the most important goal for our clients at Polished Salon, Spa & Wellness. After all, beauty starts from within. See ad on page 3 and profile on page 19. u

SPECIALTY FOODS

KWEE JACK FISH CO

Wild Alaskan Salmon & Halibut Shares

717-842-0180 • EatWildSalmon.com

Sustainably harvested wild Alaskan salmon and halibut available, fisherman-direct. Pre-order online annually (spring) for local pick-up (fall) of sushi-grade delicious nutrition, deep-frozen at the peak of freshness to enjoy throughout the year. See ad, page 31. u

SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING

CAMPISI PROPERTY SERVICE, LLC

Tony Campisi

Serving York & surrounding counties

717-586-5522

FB/Campisi Property Service LLC

Our mission is to make sustainable landscaping the new normal. We help you make the connection between your property and the health of the environment. Our services include full-service landscaping, tree service, native plants, ecological restoration, pollinator gardens, wildlife habitat, rain gardens, stormwater management, invasive species removal and management. u

THERMOGRAPHY

ADVANCED THERMAL IMAGING

Pamela Howard, DC, CCT

550 Coventry Dr, Mechanicsburg

866-522-3484 • AThermalImage.com

Thermal Imaging offers a safe, non-invasive way to visualize potential health concerns; providing early warning signs for a proactive approach to health, including breast health. Visit website for more information.

VETERINARIAN – INTEGRATIVE

HEALING CREATURES HOSPITAL

(Formerly Avian And Feline Hospital)

3300 Hartzdale Dr, Camp Hill

717-730-3755 • HealingCreatures.com

Our passion is pets. Holistic and traditional services tailored to meet pets’ needs (homeopathic, herbal, nutritional and behavioral). Unique services offered include acupuncture, cold laser therapy and veterinary orthopedic manipulation (VOM). See ad, page 35. u

WELLNESS

1881 SALT SANCTUARY

Nikki McClane

1881 Loucks Rd, York, PA 17408 717-894-1881 • 1881sanctuary.com

Features two salt therapy rooms – a community salt room and private salt chamber. We also offer individual and couples’ massages; an herbal apothecary, stocked with herbal tinctures, extracts, salves, balms and lotions from local and national providers; gemstones, jewelry, books, organic chocolates and upcycled items; plus, naturethemed crafts and artwork from local artists. See ad, page 31. u

BLUE MOUNTAIN ACUPUNCTURE

Beth A. Mills, LAc 5521 Carlisle Pike, Ste B, Mechanicsburg 717-516-1080 • BlueMountainAcu.com

Beth is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Board Certified Herbalist who provides the local community with Acupuncture, Bodywork, and Herbal Medicine to improve quality of life and enhance well-being. Acupuncture addresses health concerns such as allergies, stress, pain, sleep, digestion, women’s health and many others. u

FIREFLY HOLLOW HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER

Kara Lovehart

200 Farm Ln, York • 717-814-9136

FireflyHollowWellness.com

We are a full-service holistic wellness center offering an array of professional services that address clients’ individual needs. A holistic approach strives to integrate Mind, Body & Spirit, allowing wellness to occur. Services include medical massage, energy medicine, intuitive coaching, wellness education, nutritional coaching and much more. See profile, page 18. u

GRACEFULL HEART

Sharon Askey

1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle

717-240-0400 • GraceFull-Heart.com

Gracefull Heart offers many services to assist in maintaining wellness: Sacred Spirals Healing, Dominus Cervix™ Stargate sessions, reiki sessions, aura photography and AmpCoil™ sessions. We offer reiki classes and a diverse schedule of workshops. See ad, page 13. u

INFINITE MIND-BODY ORGANIZATION

Bonnie Mirecki & Denise Nickey Wellsville, PA • 717-319-7244

Facebook: Infinite Mind-Body Org

Offering non-invasive and highly relaxing mind-body healing techniques, processes and energy spa services. Support your body’s natural ability to heal by increasing core cellular energy, releasing body tension and undoing programs of limiting beliefs that keep you stuck in unhealthy patterns. Modalities include, Access Bars, energetic facelifts, BodyTalk, wellness coaching and the new Energy Enhancement System, Quantum Healing Chamber. See ad, page 9. u

MIND BODY HEALTH CONSULTANTS

David Frederick, PhD, DSc, ND, DHM

3214 E Market St, York • 717-344-0075

TheUnknownMuscle.com

DocDaveF@worldinst.com

We provide complementary and alternative approaches to integrated wellness. From pain management, digestion and hormone/thyroid analysis to migraines, anxiety, Lyme’s and more. “If you’re serious, we can help.” Dr. Dave is an internationally known lecturer and educator who travels extensively teaching, and conducts periodic workshops locally. u

POSITIVE PRIME PrimeForGold.com

Harness the power of PositiveCognitive Psychology and Neuroscience to redesign your mindset and life. Expertly curated, personalized images & statements with sound track become a vision board on steroids to help you create a positive mindset in as little as 3 minutes per day. Lifetime access to a gifted sample session and a 10-day free trial are available at PrimeForGold.com. u

SPIRITUAL HEARTS, LLC

Jennifer Rabenstein

239 Gettysburg St, Dillsburg 717-756-7079 • SpiritualHeArtsLLC.com

Experience how the art of spiritual healing occurs in creative and YOU-nique ways. A variety of healing modalities can be blended from Reiki, reflexology, shamanic work, sound healing, crystals, henna, artistic outlets, priestess work and more. Services can be experienced through private sessions, private groups, workshops, retreats, public events and more. See ad, page 31. u

WHOLISTICALLY SIMPLE RX

Dr. Tia McLaughlin

1000 Carlisle St, Ste 2225, Hanover 717-885-6638 • DrTiaMcLaughlin.com

Individual and family in-person, one-on-one health consults, virtual appointments, group sessions/ events and energy sessions – Dr. Tia is a functional medicine practitioner and lifestyle educator who helps manage and reverse symptoms of autoimmune or chronic diseases specializing in stomach/gut health/weight issues, Celiac and blood sugar concerns through a unique, whole-body approach. Education regarding labs and medications is also available. u

YOUR YOGA

YOGA

Cynthia Johannes-Beecher

1900 Orange St, West York 717-586-6494 • YorkYourYoga.com

Your journey is our passion at Your Yoga. We welcome everyone to learn in a safe, inviting, no judgment studio located near the fairgrounds. All body types welcome. Easy access with lots of free on-street parking. Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Restorative, Chair and Gentle Yoga. See ad, page 11. u

NOTE: For guidelines and to submit a classified listing, email Publisher@ NaturalCentralPA.com. Listings are $25 for up to 25 words, or $1 per word over 25 words. Deadline is the 1st, for the next month.

ENERGY WORK

ENERGY CONSCIOUSNESS TRANSFORMATIONAL HEALING – Brennan Healing Science Practitioner, 25 years’ experience. Forgotten life experiences and traumas are stored in the body’s cellular memory and continue to affect adult experiences. Healing these distortions allows the body to self-heal. Healing on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. Distant healings available via Zoom. Energybodyworks.com. Tinyurl.com/ Asha-HER-Summit. 717-843-5672.

HELP WANTED

CASHIER – Full-time, 36 hours. Must be available Fridays & Saturdays. Sonnewald Natural Foods in Spring Grove seeks cashier with register experience, accuracy with money handling, neat & organized, excellent customer service, strong team player & passion for industry. Competitive pay. Employee discount. Paid & unpaid time off. Application at Sonnewald.org. See ad, back cover.

RECEIVING BULK & MILL ROOM – Fulltime, 40 hours. Tuesday thru Saturday. Sonnewald Natural Foods in Spring Grove seeks teammate to receive & stock product, work in fridge & freezer, maintain bulk foods area, operate mill room & lift up to 50 pounds. Must have excellent customer service and passion for the industry and be a strong team player. Competitive pay. Employee discount. Paid & unpaid time off. Application at Sonnewald.org. See ad, back cover.

SALESPERSON/COMMUNITY LIAISON –

Natural Awakenings is looking for the right person with a passion for building relationships and selling print and digital advertising in the healthy, holistic and sustainable niches in South Central PA, as an independent contractor, part- or full-time. Email your resume to Publisher@NaturalCentralPA.com.

I believe the choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is.

~Oprah Winfrey