May 2024 Natural Awakenings South Central PA

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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.

Harmony in HORMONES & CBD

The ebbs and flows of hormones can be both confusing and overwhelming. CBD, through its influence on the endocannabinoid system, may act as a support in promoting hormonal balance. In translation, you might find a calmer sense of a serene mood, lower irritability, and a better sense of well-being.

“Most research studies suggest a dosage of between 20 and 1,500 milligrams (mg) of CBD a day. That is a very wide range. The right amount will depend on the individual. A few basic factors include body weight, individual body chemistry, tolerance, and dosing goals (i.e., the condition you are treating).”

• 14% of Americans say they use CBD products.

• 40% of users utilize CBD products for pain, 20% for anxiety, 11% for sleep.” (Reference from Gallup)

Additionally, any cortisol-reducing activities may help to support overall hormone balance. Pairing one of these

activities with a hemp-based CBD product can give you a boost of omega fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid, both of which can help you land overall better hormone health.

NATURAL WAYS TO LOWER CORTISOL

Lowering stress. Stress is a trigger for cortisol production, so lowering stress also lowers cortisol in many cases.

• Using relaxation techniques

• Eating a balanced diet

• Avoiding caffeine

• Getting enough sleep

• Maintaining a good bedtime routine

• Taking up a hobby

• Laughing and having fun

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Happy Mother’s Day

The Most Important Job in the World

A mother’s hug lasts long after she lets go.

– Unknown

This issue marks almost 40 years since my mother, Kathyrn, passed away. She was about to turn 50 and died suddenly; her passing was unexpected and a shock. She was not in the best of health, but I never expected that she would leave at such an early age.

For all of us, the relationship with our mother is pivotal throughout childhood, shaping our emotional, cognitive and social growth. During infancy, it fosters attachment, providing the security and trust essential for exploration. During toddlerhood, it nurtures independence through responsive caregiving and encouragement; and in early school years, it forms the basis for learning about relationships, empathy and self-regulation.

A mother’s innate capacity for love, guidance and influence toward her child is arguably the most valuable work in the world. It lays the groundwork for every person’s sense of self-worth and resilience. Through the bond with both parents, children develop the confidence to explore the world, establish relationships and navigate challenges, setting the stage for healthy development and future success. Thank you, mom – and thank YOU moms everywhere for the valuable and important work you do. Happy Mother’s Day!

My mom was born almost a century ago, which sounds both trite and shocking at the same time. It was certainly a different era when she was born in 1934, and the same can be said about the era 50 years later when she passed away in 1984. Not only were the social, political, economic and technological landscapes vastly different than they are today, so too were the medical and mental health paradigms.

Today there is more awareness of holistic well-being and mental wellness. This is especially true for women’s health, which addresses the importance of properly balancing hormones through natural methods, free from drugs or pharmaceuticals whenever possible.

For many women, hormonal imbalances can cause myriad symptoms ranging from mood swings and fatigue to irregular periods and weight gain. It’s vital to consult your physician and connect with experts in integrative medicine and hormonal health who emphasize the importance of addressing underlying factors such as nutrition, stress, liver detoxification and healthy sleep habits. Holistic, science-based modalities offer a comprehensive approach to hormonal balance that honors the intricate interplay between mind, body, and spirit.

Within these pages every month, you’ll find a wealth of resources and practitioners to support hormonal health and overall well-being on your journey to feel good, live simply and laugh more.

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.

Dave Korba, Publisher

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More Massage Options at Firefly Hollow

Jen Wagman, a licensed massage therapist (LMT) for 10 years, has joined Kara Lovehart and the staff at Firefly Hollow Wellness. She specializes in integrative, therapeutic, prenatal and warm bamboo massage for those in pain or medically frail. Lovehart says, “We had a waitlist for clients wanting therapeutic type massage, and we finally have a new therapist who is perfect for those who want specialized massage care.”

Wagman’s passion has always been to help people. As an LMT, she is a facilitator of healing, helping clients with stress, anxiety and pain management. Seeing the difference in each and every person she touches is her reward.

Cost is $55 to $150. Location: 200 Farm Lane, York. For more information, call 717-814-9136, email FireflyHollowWellness@gmail. com or visit FireflyHollowWellness.com. See listing, page 39.

Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Netara Jackson and Back 2 Basics Restored Health and Wellness provides guidance for deep healing that allows women to become all they desire to be in their physical health and life. She says, “There is a movement of women who are searching and ready to self-actualize, become the most they can be, and my expertise is centered on guiding clients towards that desire.” She embodies the philosophy of healing and transforming the whole person and offers one-on-one virtual coaching for all aspects of life.

Using unique integrative methods from proven Western and Eastern medicine practices built on scientific research, Jackson goes deep with each client to bring about transformative results. “To ensure I am offering the most comprehensive and effective results, I am continually expanding my knowledge and expertise as I pursue advanced degrees, culminating in my doctorate in natural medicine.”

Location: currently virtual only, but the business address is 5455 Autumn Dr., Harrisburg. For more information, call 717-500-2226, email WellnessRestored2@gmail.com or visit AttractWell.com/NetaraJackson and Tinyurl.com/Back2BasicsHealth. See listing, page 29.

Jen Wagman

Netara Jackson

Potted Dreams

Available at Carlisle Creative Vibes

Carlisle Creative Vibes, a community of eclectic artists and creators featuring holistic, handmade, vintage, retro and upcycled items, as well as readings or healing sessions from gifted practitioners, is now the purveyor of Potted Dreams, which offers various items made of clay, including pots, decor and plant holders.

Owner Amber Bernard says, “Ever since I was a child, I have had a fascination with nature-inspired art and plants. I took art classes in high school as my elective and created art at any opportunity that I could over the years. I started working with clay in 2024, making whimsical pots, and I haven’t been able to stop! I love it when an idea pops into my head and I can depict it through clay bringing my ideas to life! I am extremely excited to share my art with you, and hope you enjoy my pieces as much as I enjoyed creating them!”

Location: 152 N. Hanover St., Carlisle. For more information, call 223-269-0519, email CarlisleCreativeVibes@gmail.com or visit CarlisleCreativeVibes.com. See ad, page 19.

Breastfeeding Help for New Mothers

NursieSides Lactation Support is a new private practice/business in the area offering in-home and virtual lactation visits. Many mothers are sent home after giving birth without a clear plan to help them overcome breastfeeding challenges that may arise. Even though insurance plans cover lactation consultations, mothers are not sure how to access them.

Owner Leslie Cree, certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, says, “Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed a baby, providing custom nutrition and transfer of immunities to protect infants from illness and disease. When a mother breastfeeds, the activity has short- and long-term benefits for her also. Breastfeeding is ecological, sustainable and always available in an emergency. In our culture, establishing breastfeeding can be challenging for a variety of reasons. Lactation consultants are available in the community to see parents and help establish plans to ensure both baby and mom thrive.”

Cost varies. Location: 6339 Stephens Crossing, Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-514-7850, email LactationLeslie@gmail.com or visit NursieSidesLactationSupport.com. See Profile on page 12 and article on page 25.

Partner Massage at The Balance

The Balance is adding a new class by appointment to learn partner massage. Owner Brenda Baxter says, “Enjoy a date and spend time bonding with touch.”

This unique, 90-minute class provides ways to help partners relax and decrease stress with demonstration, instruction and time to practice their newly learned skills. It includes a small bottle of lotion to take home.

Cost is $149. Location: 2201 Forest Hills Dr., Ste. 9, Harrisburg. For more information, call 717-877-7533, email Brenda@BalanceIsYours.com or visit BalanceIsYours.com/deals. See ad, page 16.

Trends in Non-Alcoholic Drinking Habits

A 2023 Gallup Poll found that 62 percent of adults aged 18 to 35 say they drink alcoholic beverages, down from 72 percent two decades ago. The poll noted that young adults also drink less frequently and are less likely to drink to excess. As a result, bars like Happy Accidents, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are increasing non-alcoholic options to cater to young consumers. The bar offers five mocktails that use ingredients such as matcha, garam masala and capsaicin oils to create complex and flavorful alcohol-free alternatives.

Mingle Mocktails was created by a recovering alcoholic looking for a way to feel included during social outings while choosing not to drink alcohol. Mingle offers flavors such as Key Lime Margarita and Cucumber Melon Mojito that are available in ready-to-drink cans, as well as in bottles for more premium mixing. NielsenIQ reports consistent double-digit growth in the nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits market. The movement toward non-boozy alternatives is praised by experts for its positive impact on health and well-being, including improved sleep, energy, mental clarity, immunity and mood.

Olga Kochina 5PH/CanvaPro

Crystal Cove Collective

Choose from a wide selection of:

2208 Gettysburg Rd. Camp Hill PA 17011 gems · minerals · crystal skulls · jewelry · fossils metaphysical items like sage and singing bowls Custom-made pieces available.

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Health Briefs

Lymphatic Drainage and Sauna for Lyme Disease

Holistic lymphatic drainage therapy and sauna sessions can enhance recovery from Lyme disease. These treatments aid in detoxification, boost immune function and alleviate symptoms.

Lyme, often camouflaged as other ailments, is primarily transmitted by deer ticks. Early symptoms include distinctive skin rashes and flu-like signs, while advanced stages may bring neurological issues and joint pain. Without timely intervention, it can severely affect the heart and nerves.

Standard Lyme treatments include antibiotics, which are especially potent soon after infection. However, lingering symptoms post-treatment, known as chronic Lyme or post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, remain a challenge. A blend of lymphatic drainage therapy and sauna sessions provides a holistic support system for those battling the disease.

This combination therapy has shown promising outcomes because it aids in detoxifying the body, supports digestive health disrupted by antibiotics, fosters neurological balance, enhances immune function and alleviates inflammation, easing joint discomfort.

Those contracting Lyme disease might well consider lymphatic drainage therapy as a complementary treatment. It is a step toward harnessing the body’s own healing potential, coupled with the therapeutic warmth of sauna sessions.

Cristina Boyle, LMT, CMLDT, is the owner of Happie Soul Wellness, located at 5000 Lenker St., Ste. 103, in Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-254-7250 or visit HappieSoul.me. See ads, pages 13 and 27.

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Practitioner Profiles

In this Women’s Wellness issue, we shine a spotlight on local practitioners that offer services and modalities showcasing specific expertise in women’s issues. Each one is committed to providing outstanding personal service with a level of expertise that will deliver a holistic approach to achieve health and wellness via the integration of body, mind and soul. Please enjoy the journey of creating the healthiest version of yourself.

Leslie Cree, BA, IBCLC • NursieSides Lactation Support

6339 Stephens Crossing, Mechanicsburg • 717-514-7850 LactationLeslie@gmail.com

• NursieSidesLactationSupport.com

International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant Leslie Cree provides in-home and virtual consultations. Because no two experiences are alike, sorting through options and advice can be discouraging and frustrating. She listens and provides guidance to help parents make evidence-based decisions that will work best for them.

Lactation assessments include visual and physical assessment of mother, parent and infant(s), obtaining a complete health history and observing feedings and pumping sessions to customize solutions to attain desired results, as well as communicating with other healthcare providers for a team-based approach.

In the post-birth transition home, Cree implements strategies for relieving engorgement, helping babies to latch on and drink effectively, addressing nipple pain or injury, balancing sleep, feeding and mothers on self-care while learning to care for a newborn. Natal intensive care unit graduates or late preterm infants discharged home are in need of additional follow-up to ensure goals are met.

See article, page 25.

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.”

Eleanor Dunham, M.D., MBA, FACEP, FMACP

Ellements of Health

40 W. Main St., Hummelstown

717-963-0620

Team@EllementsOfHealth.com EllementsOfHealth.com

Dr. Dunham is a board-certified emergency physician and former military physician who is also a certified functional medicine practitioner through the Functional Medicine Academy, Institute for Functional Medicine and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.

She says, “Our mission is to provide hope for those who have lost faith in our modern healthcare system and to provide them with a better way to restore their health, both internally and externally. Our vision is to optimize the lives of those in our community.”

The practice provides both functional medicine and aesthetics so that clients look good on the outside and feel good on the inside. Functional medicine digs deep to find the root cause of health issues, and looks at the whole body, not just the individual systems.

Dunham explains, “Your body is a unique complex interconnected system that must be treated accordingly. Some of the areas we can work on are gut health, as the gut is connected to everything; hormonal imbalances, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, weight loss, chronic fatigue, Lyme and much more.”

Aesthetics include Botox and fillers, plus the new Morpheus 8, which is a full-body, allnatural, collagen-boosting, skin-tightening system that restores a healthier and younger appearance to your skin without using any external chemicals.

See ad, page 7.

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Balancing Gluten

Making Peace With an Oft-Maligned Ingredient

by Deborah Bevilacqua

The rise in prevalence of celiac disease and related conditions, and shifts toward paleo, keto and other gluten-free diets, have driven the gluten-free products market from $973 million in 2014 to $6.5 billion in 2022. The market for these products is expected to reach $15.1 billion by 2032 according to The Brainy Insights, a market research company. However, switching to gluten-free products is not a one-size-fits-all decision.

Celiac disease affects an estimated 1 percent or approximately 3 million Americans, although approximately 60 to 70 percent of those have not been diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. The illness is an autoimmune condition that results in tissue damage in the small intestine, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain, gas and bloating, cognitive impairment, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, fatigue, anemia, skin rashes and joint pain. It is diagnosed with blood tests and confirmed by taking pictures inside of the small intestine.

The National Institutes of Health report an additional 6 percent of Americans may have a related condition known as nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). While

some symptoms of intolerance or sensitivity to gluten are similar to those with celiac disease, NCGS does not come with intestinal damage. Symptoms of NCGS also may occur outside the intestines such as heartburn, feelings of fullness, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, depression, a foggy mind and fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

For those allergic to wheat or other grains containing gluten or that have gluten-related disorders, permanently eliminating gluten is a must. This includes inhaling it, eating it and encountering it through skin or hair.

Gluten and the Gut

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, spelt, semolina, farro, barley and rye. These grains are a source of fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients. Many studies have associated whole-grain consumption with improved health outcomes. For instance, as part of a healthy diet, wheat has been found to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.

Gluten interplays with the bacteria in the gut. The journal Nutrients published a review in 2021 of various studies that evaluated the

effects of a gluten-free diet on the microbiome of healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found that a gluten-free diet reduced the bacterial richness and affected gut microbiota composition of patients in all three groups. In patients with celiac disease or NCGS, the gluten-free diet created a positive effect on gastrointestinal symptoms and helped restore microbiota population by reducing the population of pro-inflammatory species. However, in healthy patients, a gluten-free diet had a negative effect on the gut by decreasing the number of beneficial species and increasing the number of bad microorganisms.

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, changes in the amount or activity of good bacteria have been associated with gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.

“Changes in your diet can alter your microbiome within one to two days,” says Dr. Tom O’Bryan, an expert on wheat-related disorders, NCGS, celiac disease and their link to autoimmune diseases. “When you go on a gluten-free diet, you remove prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in your gut. This then causes the bad bacteria to flourish and reproduce, resulting in increased inflammation in your gut, a contributor to disease.” This makes sense as 70 to 80 percent of immune cells are present in the gut.

Effective Gluten-Free Dieting

Whether a gluten-free diet is required because of a gluten-related disorder or by choice, it is essential to add prebiotic foods

Olga Larionova from Getty Images/CanvaPro

to replace the beneficial impacts lost when eliminating wheat and other grains. Prebiotic and probiotic supplements are a start, but consumption of vegetables is the key.

“Probiotics are most effective when they are combined with a high-fiber diet featuring a variety of vegetables,” says O’Bryan. He recommends at least one daily serving of root vegetables, such as rutabaga, turnip, parsnip, radish, carrot and sweet potato, and two daily servings of prebiotic foods like bananas, garlic, onion, asparagus, leafy green vegetables, legumes, artichoke, apples and cocoa. “I also recommend a forkful or more of fermented foods each day. Vary it up with some sauerkraut, kimchi, miso or fermented beets, or drink some kefir or kombucha.”

“If you're experiencing digestive discomfort, give a healthy, gluten-free diet a try for at least 30 days and assess how you feel,” recommends Michelle Ross, a board-certified nutrition specialist, licensed dietician and functional medicine practitioner. “My recommendation is to

stay away from the gluten-free aisle. The truth is many people that switch to a gluten-free diet often turn to processed gluten-free foods. The focus should be on consuming whole, real, unprocessed foods.”

Finding Balance

Even for those without gluten-related conditions, too much gluten can create its own health complications. In a 2015 study published in Nutrients, gliadin, a component of gluten, was administered to biopsies taken from the small intestines of

healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found each group experienced increases in inflammatory markers and in markers of leaky gut, with the healthy group having the greatest increase in interleukin 10, a rapidly activated pro-inflammatory cytokine that defends the body against microbial invasion.

For otherwise healthy people, finding a balance between enough gluten to feed gut probiotics but not so much that it results in gut permeability issues is important. “If you decide to continue consuming gluten, opt for whole or minimally processed einkorn wheat, rye, barley, spelt and Kamut wheat,” says Ross. “These grains have not undergone hybridization and are not typically sprayed with glyphosate before harvesting. Additionally, consider consuming sprouted or fermented forms of these grains, as they can be more digestible.”

Deborah Bevilacqua is a journalist and contributor to Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.

EzumeImages from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Easy Fertility Kitchari (Quinoa and Bean Stew)

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

2 cups dried mung beans, soaked in water for 8-12 hours

1 Tbsp coconut oil, ghee or olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

14 oz spinach, kale, collards or any other greens

2 tsp Celtic sea salt

1 13.5-oz can full-fat coconut milk

2 cups quinoa

7½ cups water

Optional: cilantro, avocado

Heat oil in a pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot); add onion, garlic and cumin. Sauté until fragrant; stir occasionally. Add greens, soaked mung beans, quinoa and water. Put the lid on, and pressure cook for 12 minutes. Once pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir in coconut milk. Top it off with fresh avocado and cilantro before serving.

Recipe courtesy of Aumatma Simmons.

Purple Cauliflower Salad

This salad is full of cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts, which have a nutrient called diindolylmethane (DIM) that helps process estrogen in a healthier way. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc, which supports progesterone production, and magnesium, which can help with period cramps. Avocado and olive oil are rich in hormone- supportive omega-3s.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

1 head purple cauliflower

¼ head white cauliflower

¼ head broccoli or 1 cup Brussels sprouts

2 Tbsp canned red kidney beans (optional)

½ avocado, sliced

1-2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds

1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

Pinch of salt

Dash of black pepper

Preheat oven to 320°F. Cut cauliflower and broccoli into florets (or slice Brussels sprouts in half) and add them to a baking tray. Drizzle the veggies with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place into preheated oven to roast for about 15 minutes. Stir the vegetables and roast for another five to 10 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. Combine with other ingredients.

Recipe courtesy of Deborah Matthew.

Sewcream from Getty Images/ CanvaPro

joshu arainey photography from Getty Images/CanvaPro

We Have a Choice

In times like today, when every aspect of society seems to be in chaos, one easy response is to escape—through

drugs, alcohol, comfort food, non-stop entertainment or any other convenient mind-numbing practice Many are defaulting to this “cure” for their discomfort. Others, feeling insecure, angry, and demanding change, agitate to take society back to what they remember as the “good old days ” They may not be clear about what exactly made the past better, but are more than willing to listen to people who place the blame for current troubles anywhere but where it actually belongs: on economic inequality and injustice.

A Major Transition

Most of us forget that another choice is possible. We can create a future completely di erent from the present or the past—one that expresses our most deeply felt desires to live together in peace, happiness, and prosperity In fact, this choice is being reinforced, or perhaps stimulated, by the planetary energies now at play We are currently in the midst of a major transition between two ages moving from the Age of Pisces into the Age of Aquarius, and such transitions tend to create chaos as the energies of the two constellations involved compete with each other The energies of Pisces support individuality and devotion to separate religions or causes, while Aquarian energies promote cooperation, group e orts, synthesis, and brotherhood. As our planet moves closer to Aquarius, the

polarization and divisions among people and ideas will diminish, and we will find more common ground

So, now is the time to take advantage of the energies and to put forth visions of a world that would benefit all people—not just a few. In mundane terms, we need to expand the “Overton window”—the range of ideas that voters find acceptable—to include ideas that are not currently in the public eye—ideas that might at first be considered idealistic or even impossible to attain. For politicians to support policies outside of the window would be political suicide, as they would not be seen as legitimate options by society Therefore, since it’s politicians who will be deciding the policies that will determine our future, we need to voice our desires for the kind of world we want, to make sure they are among the available options in the public discourse

The Key: A Unified Vision of Sharing and Justice

How do we bring our ideas forward?

The key is to have a unified vision, to voice it in large numbers, and to do so powerfully Fortunately, we don’t have to do this alone We have help in the form of the great spiritual teacher—Maitreya by name who is here to accompany our transition into the Aquarian age, and we will see him soon He has said that peace can be established and our societal ills transformed by simply sharing planetary resources more equitably, creating justice in every societal institution, and restoring and

preserving our environment. We can count on him to galvanize people of goodwill to champion these priorities when he appears publicly, but we can start now

We can talk about the future we want to our friends and relatives, call and write the president and our Congressional representatives on a regular basis about it, and spread the ideas through our social media outlets There is power in numbers, and the 99% of us non-wealthy are by definition the majority We just need to project our vision of sharing and justice powerfully in as unified a way as possible everywhere, and together we can create a future that works for everyone

For free information:

Share-international us 888-242-8272

info@share-international us

Free Download!

TO DOWNLOAD: bit.ly/world-teacher or scan QR code with your smart phone camera

In The World Teacher for All Humanity, Benjamin Creme discusses the extraordinary ramifications of Maitreya’s appearance and teachings. Awaken to a world of infinite possibility if we’re all willing to share!

Footloose Fitness

The Joys and Benefits of Dance Classes

by Kelly Mercedes

Getting fit offers many health benefits, including stress management and better cardiovascular health, but stepping into a dance class can also increase levels of feel-good neurotransmitters that reduce pain and boost mood. From fusion dance to ballroom and hip hop, today’s studios provide plenty of diversity in their class offerings; a welcoming, non-judgmental approach; and encouragement for all ages to try something new.

“These days, there are many entries into dance that are non-performance-based— dancing just for the joy of it, to feel the endorphin rush that happens when moving your body to music,” says Jessica Gleason, founder and lead instructor of Seattle Dance Fitness, in Shoreline, Washington. Aside from the perks of better balance and a stronger, more supple body, dancing can help us build solid social bonds, too. “Step into a dance fitness class at a gym, studio or community center, and you will definitely meet new people, foster relationships and feel like you’re a part of a bigger community, all things that are positive for your mental health and well-being,” Gleason adds.

Kelly Peckholdt, owner and director of Positions Dance Studio in Babylon, New York, champions the “emotional regulation due to the release of serotonin when you are dancing. I personally always feel so much better after a dance class.” She reminds us that we do not need to be born with a talent to boogie. “A lot of people believe that they must be flexible or have good balance in order to try a dance class, but we dance so that we can gain those benefits. Moving your body is for anyone at any age and any shape or size.”

Benefits Abound

Taking up joyful swing or invigorating salsa can not only support muscle and joint health,

but also get us to a healthier weight. A 2015 study led by Dr. Nick Smeeton, a UK lecturer at the University of Brighton Department of Sport and Exercise Science, revealed that many dance styles, including ballroom, ballet and contemporary, can burn more calories than running, cycling or swimming. The research team, which measured key biomarkers in adult dancers, found that up to 600 calories could be burned in one hour.

A 2017 meta-analysis of 18 studies involving ballroom, contemporary, jazz and cultural

dance forms, published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, found significant improvement in stamina, muscular strength and balance in older adults, as well as improved psychological well-being. According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, dance can be a boon to the skeletal system. The brain is also positively impacted by doing a little cha-cha or line dancing. Research published in 2017 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience reports improved cerebral white matter—the part of the brain that governs

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thought processing and speed—through folk dancing.

Dance Class Options

“There is so much more to dance than classical ballet,” Peckholdt says. “I think that ballet, tap and jazz are very manageable for older adults, in perhaps a beginner-level class.”

Gleason recommends four branded modalities that are popular these days: Zumba, a cardio workout with Latin-inspired dance moves; Jazzercise, a high-intensity workout that blends dance with Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and strength training; REFIT, a dance class that incorporates emotionally uplifting and community-building components to keep students motivated; and WERQ, a cardio-dance workout that incorporates trending pop and hip-hop music.

Toss Out Perfection

To find a class, Gleason suggests Googling “dance workout near me”. She also advises a healthy amount of patience when trying something new. “We always remind newcomers that it takes some time to learn the moves and that they aren’t supposed to look and move like the instructor. They are supposed to move and look like themselves.”

For some, taking the plunge and walking into a studio is the hardest part. Gleason inspires us when she says, “So many people tell me it took them forever to try a class because they were nervous about trying, but once they did, they wished they’d done so sooner.”

Kelly Mercedes is a narrative journalist and contributor to KnoWEwell and Natural Awakenings.

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The Road to Hormonal Harmony Finding Balance and Thriving

by Marlaina Donato

Like a well-built home, the human body’s quality of life depends upon a sturdy foundation. A complex, hormonal matrix determines our vitality and impacts major areas of health, including growth and development, stamina, sleep cycles, bone health, blood sugar levels, fertility, weight and mood. Fifty hormones take turns keeping us alive, as well as impacting lesser concerns such as hair and skin quality.

Excessive stress, certain pharmaceutical medications, hormonal contraception, autoimmune diseases and, in rare instances, tumors can throw the body into metabolic chaos. Supporting these fundamental allies through lifestyle changes that include a nutrient-packed diet, improved gut health, supplementation and medication, when needed, can help us get back on track. Most importantly, prevention is possible with the same approach.

“Hormones are the behind-the-scenes influencers, ensuring your body operates smoothly and adjusting to the ever-changing demands of your environment and internal states. When this delicate balance is thrown off, the consequences can be widespread, affecting virtually every aspect of your health,” affirms North Carolina-based hormone specialist Deborah Matthew, M.D., author of This Is Not

Normal: A Busy Woman's Guide to Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

Even a slight imbalance of certain hormones—whether a deficiency or an excess—can compromise digestion, raise low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol), downgrade sex drive, foster cognitive issues, amp up anxiety and even affect heart rhythm. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise also play a role in disturbing equilibrium. Matthew explains, “Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate many functions well beyond the realm of reproductive health. They are produced by your endocrine glands and circulate through your bloodstream, delivering critical instructions to every tissue and organ.”

Oxytocin and Other Key Players

Like orchestra players, hormones work together, but the hormone oxytocin is the conductor. Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, as well as the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, cannot be produced or used properly without oxytocin. Good gut health also depends on it. “The most powerful hormone in our body, hands down, is oxytocin. It also happens to be an alkalinizing hormone and helps oppose the negative, chronic effects of cortisol, our stress hormone,” says Anna Cabeca, a triple-board-certified OBGYN and author of The Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16 and MenuPause. “Oxytocin is what we refer to as the love and bonding hormone. It’s also a longevity hormone—muscle-regenerating, mood-elevating, pain-relieving and immune-boosting. It is vital to have a high level of it if we want to boost and support the other hormones.”

Cabeca recommends boosting oxytocin naturally. “It can be as simple as thinking of something that puts a smile on your face, brings you joy and happiness, makes you laugh or gives you that warm fuzzy feeling inside,” she explains, adding that cultivating a sense of gratitude “will help boost your oxytocin level and reduce your stress

hormone cortisol, which, when too high, leads to inflammation and acidity.” Her other go-to oxytocin allies are funny movies, being in nature, hugs, intimacy, therapeutic massage and activities with others like yoga classes, hiking or team sports.

The symbiotic relationship between the thyroid and our stress-fighting adrenal glands is also fundamental in systemic harmony. A 2015 study published in European Thyroid Journal revealed that 5 percent of patients with autoimmune thyroid disease also had an underlying primary adrenal insufficiency. An older study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2009 showed that 41 percent of patients with compromised adrenal function also suffered from hypothyroidism.

“In today’s high-stress environment, our cortisol production can become dysregulated. This is often called ‘adrenal fatigue’, although that term is not recognized by the conventional medicine world,” says Matthew. “This cortisol dysregulation often

results in profound tiredness, cravings for salt or sugar, reliance on caffeine for energy and difficulty handling stress.” She notes that despite its widespread occurrence, adrenal compromise slips between the cracks of conventional diagnosis. Recognizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems is vital.

“A holistic approach to thyroid and adrenal health considers the entire spectrum of an individual’s health, lifestyle and emotional well-being,” Matthew says. “Holistic practitioners often employ comprehensive testing to uncover subtle imbalances, utilize natural supplements like adaptogenic herbs to support function and recommend dietary and lifestyle changes that address underlying causes of thyroid and adrenal symptoms.”

Fertility Factors

For many, planning a family is one of life’s high points, but according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 percent of married women under the age of 30 struggle to conceive; about 22 percent of

Andrey Cherkasov from Getty Images/CanvaPro

married women between ages 30 and 39 are hit the hardest. The frustration can be agonizing. “I often say that infertility is not a diagnosis; it’s a symptom,” attests Aumatma Simmons, a double-board-certified naturopathic doctor, endocrinologist and fertility specialist at the Holistic Fertility Institute, in Berkeley, California. “When we consider infertility as a symptom, we start understanding that it is the check-engine light that our body is giving off, trying to tell us something is out of whack. Maybe it’s the hormones or something somewhere else in the body. The root causes must be discovered and addressed.”

Common contributors to infertility include amenorrhea (absent periods) caused by physical or emotional stress, weight extremes (obesity or underweight) and age. Simmons underscores the role of diet and lifestyle in both women and men. “It is well-researched

that lifestyle habits like smoking, alcohol and marijuana can contribute to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, there is ongoing research about the role of sedentary lifestyles and body mass index as potential indicators of pregnancy outcomes. Even blood sugar and inflammation in the male partner can impact fertility, as well as a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy to term.”

Simmons directly attributes food habits to egg and sperm quality, asserting, “Diet is vital in the role of implantation. There are studies that have shown that gut inflammation contributes to uterine inflammation, which directly affects implantation and pregnancy outcomes.” She also connects the dots between the mental and emotional health of both parents and baby success. Negative talk, poor self-esteem, responsibility overload and an inability to let go or ask for help can also foster infertility.

What We Can Do

Taking a few steps toward a more balanced body can go a long way. Cabeca emphasizes, “Deep, restorative sleep is essential to regenerate and rebalance. Physical activity is absolutely necessary for hormone circulation throughout the blood and lymphatic system, so doing things that make you huff and puff and sweat daily is critical.” She also recommends alkalizing the diet by amping up hydration and fortifying meals with low-carbohydrate food sources, low-glycemic fruits like berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables and sprouts. Adding intermittent fasting to the mix also packs a positive punch, especially as progesterone and estrogen levels decrease with age and we have a higher risk for developing insulin resistance.

Everyday foods for hormonal happiness include healthy, high-fat foods like avocados, raw butter, ghee, egg yolks (rich in choline and iodine for healthy thyroid function), soaked nuts and seeds, flaxseed, hemp and olive oil; clean proteins like quinoa, organic pasture-raised poultry and beef, wild-caught fish, lentils and beans; and spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, garlic and fresh cilantro. Avoid trans fats, sugar and refined carbs, which trigger inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance.

Matthew recommends cortisol-lowering activities like meditation, yoga and breathwork, which help balance cortisol levels, improve our resilience to daily stressors and support overall hormonal health. She also stresses the importance of seven to nine hours of restful sleep by “establishing a consistent bedtime routine, minimizing exposure to blue light from screens before bedtime and creating a sleep-conducive environment in your bedroom. Many of your hormones are produced at night while you are in a deep sleep.” More shut-eye also regulates stress hormones and helps to repair the body’s cells and tissues.

Life is better when our bodies are happy, and change begins with small, inspired steps. Cabeca reminds us, “Create a life rhythm that works for you.”

Marlaina Donato is a visionary artist, composer, author of several books and long-time journalist for Natural Awakenings. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Perimenopause SOS

by Dr. Ashlyn Zikmund

Perimenopause can be characterized by many changes in the eight to 10 years preceding actual menopause, where hormone levels fluctuate, leading to many possible symptoms. During perimenopause, there is a slow decline of estrogen and progesterone levels. Typically, progesterone levels decrease more drastically due to irregular ovulatory cycles. This can present as changes in bleeding, more frequent periods, heavier periods or spotting before the menstrual period. There are several options to support women if they are having irregular bleeding—not only to provide a better quality of life, but also to make sure they do not become iron-deficient.

Perimenopause symptoms that impact women most routinely are mood changes, weight changes, hot flashes and irregular bleeding. Women in perimenopause are much more likely to experience a worsening of existing pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) mood symptoms or experience new onset anxiety or depression due to the hormone fluctuations. However, there are many options, both natural and pharmaceutical, to support women during this period of life.

Women also tend to experience weight gain during the menopause transition. On average, women gain one pound per year, but this can vary widely. The variety of other symptoms occurring are typically an obstacle to making lifestyle changes, and the motivation to exercise may decrease due to low energy and sleep disturbances. A decrease in estrogen alone also has impacts on resting energy expenditure, which is a large contributor to metabolism. This can be corrected in part by appropriate hormone therapy if indicated.

Another large part of weight management in perimenopause is leveraging protein intake. At age 40, dietary protein intake should increase to about 20 percent of total calories, or about 0.54 grams per pound, of body weight. Total calories may also be reduced by about 10 percent, depending on activity level and weight-loss goals. Other research even suggests that 0.68 to 0.77 grams per pound is needed to prevent age related muscle mass.

Dr. Ashlyn Zikmund is a naturopathic doctor at Natural Paths to Wellness, located at 1524 Cedar Cliff Dr., in Camp Hill. For more information, call 717-494-4500 or visit NaturalPathsToWellness.com. See ad, page 7.

Natural Births

A Look at Modern Midwifery

by Maya Whitman

Life’s most wondrous gifts are the babies that come into the world every day, but the clinical birth environment is not always an ideal choice for everyone. Modern midwifery, a safe alternative, honors its ancient roots by aiming to provide a comfortable and beautiful passage for both mommas and little ones. In countries like France, Sweden and Japan, midwives are involved in almost 75 percent of deliveries at birth centers, homes and hospitals. The practice is less popular in the U.S., with only 12 percent involving midwives in 2020.

“The birth experience became very medicalized at the turn of the last century out of necessity. However, midwives

have been delivering babies for centuries in all types of settings. Birth is a natural process that does not necessarily need to take place within the confines of the hospital setting,” says Paul Quinn, a certified nurse-midwife in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and author of several books, including Prenatal Possibilities: Recipes for a Healthy Pregnancy…and Beyond.

Prenatal and perinatal psychologist Susan Highsmith, in Tucson, Arizona, notes, “Care in birth centers and at home can be far more personal. For women who experience low-risk pregnancies, a natural, home birth or birth-center birth can be a satisfying and safe alternative to a hospital birth. There are a host of benefits for the baby that

are not possible in hospital settings where protocols take precedence.”

One of the advantages of a natural birth is the mother-child bonding encouraged in a non-clinical setting. “Babies should not be placed in nurseries, but should be immediately placed on the mother’s body and allowed to seek and find the breast,” Highsmith explains. “Being taken away from the mother, as is frequently done in hospitals, is anathema.”

Midwives and Doulas

Aside from facilitating the birth process, midwives can provide medical care, prescribe medications and order blood tests and imaging. Many are nurses and wellversed in any situation that might arise before, during and after labor.

Doulas focus on nonclinical care by providing physical and emotional comfort, keeping expectant mothers informed and facilitating communication with the midwives and obstetricians on the team. For Brooke Stenzler, a relationship coach in Bradenton, Florida, bringing a doula onto her birth team was an unexpected blessing. “It freed up my husband to be present in a different way, and the doula provided the tender, maternal care that I needed,” she says. “Prior to the birth, I met with my midwife for regular prenatal checkups. She came to my house a month or so prior to the expected birth date to make sure everything was set up properly for a home birth. I also had a couple of meetings with my doula prior to the birth, so she could get clear on my goals and needs. She also provided a prenatal massage.”

Stenzler and her brothers were all homebirth babies, so when it came time to plan her own pregnancy, choosing to have a midwife and a doula was an effortless decision. Her own midwife was seasoned, thus earning her confidence. “She knew what signs to look for if there were a serious situation that might require transferring to a hospital,” she

says. “I trusted that she would let me know if she felt that was necessary.”

Taking the Helm

Choosing to partner with a midwife and/ or doula can be the first big step in a happy, healthy birth, but there are some things to consider. State laws differ as to what a midwife can and cannot do, and insurance coverage varies from company to company. Thorough research is recommended to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Quinn recommends beginning a search for the right person as early as possible. “Not all midwives or doulas practice the same. There needs to be a sense of trust, and a woman needs to choose someone who makes her feel safe, heard, respected and valued,” he advises. “It’s okay to ask focused questions and inquire about a midwife or doula’s education. Ask for references. Check the internet for reviews, both good and bad, and verify if licensure is applicable. It’s also a good idea to check for any disciplinary action from the state.”

Bringing the next generation into the world is a hard job, one that demands support for body, mind and spirit. “Ask any questions that relieve fears, doubt or uncertainty beforehand. This is a mutually loving and, literally, life-enhancing relationship,” says Highsmith. “Birth is a sacred event, which deserves reverence.”

Maya Whitman is a regular writer for Natural Awakenings.

Breastfeeding Right After Birth

by Leslie Cree, BA, IBCLC

Birth signals the end of pregnancy and the beginning of a new mother/child relationship. When a newborn is placed skin-to-skin on the mother’s chest, nine documented stages take place–Birth Cry, Relaxation, Awakening, Activity, Rest, Crawling, Familiarization, Suckling (the first breastfeeding) and Sleep.

According to The Magical Hour video, “The first hours after birth are a developmentally distinct time for a baby, and there are well-documented short- and long-term physical and psychological advantages when a baby is held skin-to-skin during this time.”

Skin-to-skin contact colonizes the baby with bacteria to “introduce” them to their new environment, the colostrum the baby consumes supports their immune system, and the infant’s suckling releases the hormone oxytocin to help the mother recover from birth by contracting her uterus. Oxytocin surges every time a baby breastfeeds and promotes bonding.

According to UNICEF, “Whether delivery takes place in a hut in a rural village or a hospital in a major city, putting newborns to the breast within the first hour after birth gives them the best chance to survive, thrive and develop to their full potential.”

According to The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding, “Mothers are also uncertain about what to expect with breastfeeding and how to actually carry it out. Even though breastfeeding is often described as natural, it is also an art that has to be learned by both the mother and the newborn. Skills in how to hold and position a baby at the breast, how to achieve an effective latch and other breastfeeding techniques may need to be taught. Not surprisingly, some women expect breastfeeding to be easy, but then find themselves faced with challenges.”

Getting help early is vital to meeting breastfeeding goals. International board-certified lactation consultants (IBCLC) identify clinical concerns for mother and baby, assess feeding dynamics and provide individualized care plans in a variety of settings. A prenatal appointment identifies unique needs and provides additional education to complement information presented in a breastfeeding class. After a baby’s birth, lactation consultants help parents navigate concerns such as engorgement, latching, positioning, how to tell the baby is getting enough milk, balancing feeding, sleeping and recovery.

According to the website Healthcare.gov, “Health insurance plans must provide breastfeeding support, counseling and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. These services may be provided before and after birth.” Lactation consultants in private practice see families in their own home or virtually.

Leslie Cree, BA, IBCLC, is an experienced lactation consultant located in the Mechanicsburg area. See profile on page 12.

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Anna Cabeca on The Hormone Fix

by Sandra Yeyati

Known as “the girlfriend doctor”, Anna Cabeca is triple board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, integrative medicine, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine. With 30 years of experience helping women optimize hormones and invigorate their sex lives, she is also certified in functional medicine and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Cabeca is the bestselling author of Keto-Green 16, The Hormone Fix and MenuPause. She has also developed a line of well-researched natural care products to relieve common issues such as vaginal dryness, incontinence, loss of libido and hormone imbalance, as well as nutritional supplements that complement her Keto-Green diet plans. She offers three online masterclasses, including Breeze Through Menopause, Sexual CPR and Magic Menopause.

What prompted you to develop the menus and recommendations in your books?

They stem from my own journey through early menopause at age 39 and being told there was nothing I could do but suffer or take an antidepressant. Following an early version of my diet and lifestyle program, I was able to delay menopause and have my daughter.

When I hit age 48, I started to gain weight and experience mood swings, brain fog, crashing fatigue, and an inability to concentrate or sleep through the night, which led me to develop my keto-green, or keto-alkaline, approach.

Can women relieve hormone-imbalance symptoms without medications?

Yes. We can reduce 80 to 90 percent of symptoms in the first two weeks, and 90 percent over another couple of months, with natural interventions and no pharmaceuticals. My plans focus on the right nutrition and intermittent fasting to facilitate detox, support metabolism, increase insulin sensitivity and maintain an alkaline state.

We also work on developing a positive mindset, getting good sleep by resetting your circadian rhythm, reducing stress, eliminating toxins, and testing, which helps you manage and chart

your progress. Then I will consider adding hormones. For menopause and postmenopause, research says we do better with some hormone support.

What is the basic principle behind balancing hormones?

Getting your body to make and use your own natural hormones in a healthier, more efficient way. We do that with detox and by improving the sensitivity of the most powerful hormones in our body. It takes more than hormones to fix your hormones. More than 90 percent of the relief comes from food and lifestyle improvements.

What hormones do you target in The Hormone Fix, and why?

When it comes to regulating and navigating the menopausal transition, you have to focus on the major hormones, which are insulin, cortisol, adrenaline and oxytocin. There’s a hormone hierarchy. I compare it to a university where the students are all the hormones in our body—close to 50 of them—and they each have their own purposes and responsibilities. Teachers are like insulin, cortisol

Courtesy Anna Cabeca

and adrenaline because they regulate the classrooms. If you have an unhealthy professor that allows students to do whatever they want, there’ll be chaos in the classroom. The most powerful hormone— the president of the university—is oxytocin, the hormone of longevity and quality of life.

Can you describe your Keto-Green diet?

The Keto-Green medicinal menus support your body’s detoxification and the metabolism of your hormones. They include high-quality protein, high-quality fats and alkalinizing vegetables and fibers to support the gut and estrogen metabolism. To avoid the antibiotics and hormones in meat, we focus on nutritious, organic, wild-caught and grass-fed foods.

Can you explain the alkaline component of the plan?

A higher alkaline urine pH is associated with less metabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension and heart disease) and stronger bones. A more acidic diet takes you into a catabolic, breakdown state, instead of a build-up, nourishing state. We become more alkaline by eating alkalinizing vegetables and decreasing the acid load caused by things like sugar, stress, alcohol and dehydration. I have people measure and monitor their urine pH.

What recommendations do you have for loss of libido?

Sexual health is important for optimal health. We want to be fully functioning and capable in what we call the second spring of our lives. It’s hard to feel romantic on your dinner date with your husband or boyfriend when you’re hot-flashing or your clothes don’t fit comfortably. Getting your sexy back is about feeling good in your own skin, being healthy, reaching a happy weight, feeling strong and having good energy, all of which come from healthy eating and healthy hormones.

What advice do you have for staying motivated on our health journeys?

If you’re hitting a plateau, work with an integrative practitioner or join a group that is working on a common goal to motivate you through healthy community. One of my patients the other day said, “You told me to have more fun, so I started taking dance lessons. I haven’t taken them in 30 years, and it’s so much fun.” Be sure to bring more fun into your life. Fun is the ultimate motivator.

Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings magazine.

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit

Identifying and Treating Lyme Disease

An Integrative and Functional Medicine Approach

by Jill Valerius, M.D., ABoIM, IFMCP, ATC

Lyme disease, a complex and often misdiagnosed illness, affects approximately 476,000 people annually in the United States. Found in all 50 states and every continent but Antarctica, it is transmitted primarily by the Ixodes tick, more commonly known as the deer tick or black-legged tick. If not promptly addressed, the ailment can lead to long-term health complications. Thanks to advancements in medicine, the identification and treatment of Lyme disease continues to evolve and improve.

Historical Context

The story of Lyme disease began in the 1970s with a community outbreak of facial palsy and arthritis in Lyme, Connecticut. An explanation for this mysterious illness did not surface until the early 1980s, when Willy Burgdorfer, an investigator for the National Institutes of Health, discovered a bacterium in ticks from the area (Borrelia Burgdorferi), laying the foundation for modern testing and diagnostic methods.

Diagnosing a Complex Disease

There are several complicating factors that make a Lyme disease diagnosis difficult. The characteristic bullseye-shaped rash is present in less than half of cases and may disappear quickly. Early signs and symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are easily mistaken for other illnesses.

The utility of early lab testing is limited because the process takes several weeks and can lead to false negatives. This leaves physicians to rely on observable symptoms and rule out other possible causes. A doctor will also ask if a patient has been out in the woods or grassy areas where they might have been exposed to black-legged ticks.

Tom Moorcroft, DO, the founder of Origins of Health and an investigator of medical mysteries, refers to Lyme disease as “the new great imitator and instigator,” describing

its ability to mimic various other diseases, often at the same time. For people experiencing persistent symptoms, comprehensive lab testing may be needed to distinguish between Lyme and other tick-borne and nontick-borne diseases.

Treatment Options

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), untreated Lyme disease can produce a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, facial paralysis and arthritis. While conventional antibiotics remain a cornerstone for early-stage treatment, emerging research increasingly recognizes and supports the role of natural and botanical medicine.

In a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Medicine, seven botanical agents were identified as promising treatments for Lyme disease, including black walnut, Japanese knotweed, sweet wormwood, cat’s claw and Chinese skullcap. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta extract caused a complete eradication of the B. Burgdorferi bacterium in their study. The scientists recommended additional research to determine dosages and extract combinations that might offer hope for those suffering long-term symptoms.

The integrative and functional medicine approach to treating Lyme disease is multifaceted and customized, taking into account an individual’s health history, environmental factors and unique physiological responses. The overarching goals are to target the infection, bolster the immune system, manage symptoms and promote overall well-being.

According to Dr. Darin Ingels, a licensed doctor of naturopathic medicine and author

Erik Karits from pixabay/CanvaPro

of The Lyme Solution, “All other therapies, no matter what they are, probably aren’t going to be as effective until you’ve really taken care of your gut health and your mental and emotional being.”

Lifestyle interventions are critical in this holistic treatment. A diet rich in whole foods, clean proteins and minimal grains, dairy, sugar and processed foods can mitigate inflammation and aid recovery. Complementary practices such as regular exercise, sauna sessions, Epsom salt baths, sufficient sleep and stress management techniques play vital roles in healing and preventing long-term complications.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is integral in combating Lyme disease. Tick repellents and protective clothing can significantly reduce bites. After spending time in wooded or grassy areas, thoroughly check the skin for early tick detection and removal. Upon discovering a tick, remove it promptly and monitor the bite area for signs of a rash or infection. If symptoms appear, quickly seek guidance from a healthcare professional with expertise in Lyme disease.

A healthy diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep are essential for maintaining a robust immune system and can bolster the body’s defenses, potentially reducing the risk of developing chronic Lyme disease.

Staying Informed

• International Lyme and Associated Disease Society (ilads.org) is a global nonprofit that promotes research, education and policy associated with Lyme and associated diseases.

• LymeDisease.org offers support and information curated by patients.

• TickSpotters from the University of Rhode Island (Tinyurl.com/tickspot) provides tick identification information and science-based risk assessments.

• Local health departments can provide updated information and recommendations for specific areas.

Meeting Future Challenges

Lyme disease presents a significant global health challenge, necessitating a multifaceted and individualized approach to its management. Integrative and functional medicine offer an effective strategy, combining conventional medical treatments with lifestyle and natural therapies. This holistic approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their health journey, ensuring not just the treatment of Lyme disease, but also the promotion of longterm wellness and quality of life.

Jill Valerius is a dual-board-certified physician in family and integrative medicine with an additional certification in functional medicine. Learn more at NowHealthPalmer.com.

For more, see “What You Don’t Know”, page 33.

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Raising Puppies to Be Heroes

How to Foster Guide-Dog Candidates

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

Fostering puppies to become guide dogs or service animals can be a deeply meaningful endeavor. Beyond being loyal companions, these special pups profoundly impact the lives of people with disabilities by offering mobility and a newfound sense of freedom. They not only assist in navigation but also pave the way for social opportunities and contribute to the overall happiness and well-being of their owners.

In a 2019 study published in the journal Animals , Austrian researchers compared the quality of li fe and annual medical costs of 36 blind individuals with and without a guide dog by means of a standardized questionnaire. Although no significant differences in quality of life were noted, the guide dog owners

reported lower medical costs and expressed a firm belief that their canine companions facilitated social conta cts and had a positive impact on their independence and health.

Critical Role of Foster Families

Breeds known for their intelligence and temperament, such as Labradors, golden retrievers and German shepherds, are preferred choices. Their guide-dog journey begins just days after they are born, when foster families take them in and expose them to new experiences, sounds and surfaces, along with early tutelage in body handling, kennel training and wearing a puppy jacket.

At 8 weeks old, the pups begin to learn good manners and socialization skills. This

period is pivotal in preparing them for formal service-dog training. Nearly half of the canines bred to become guide dogs fail before the end of their training because they are skittish and fearful. In a 2021 study, also published in Animals, French researchers sought to understand the nature and causes of such fears by observing and measuring stress biomarkers of 5-month-old guidedog candidates as they were exposed to unfamiliar people, visual and sound stimuli, and physical handling.

The scientists concluded that the more time a puppy spent alone, the more likely it was to be afraid, underscoring the importance of early socialization and habituation to boost confidence and adaptability by exposing them to different people, animals and environments. The researchers characterized the early development period of puppies as “a decisive phase influencing their temperament in adulthood,” thereby enhancing their chances of success as guide dogs.

Fostering Tips

Caring for a guide-dog candidate during its formative first months can make or break the animal’s future performance. Here are a few tips for foster parents.

• Offer positive reinforcement. Celebrate small wins, maintain a positive attitude and apply consistent commands and routines when training a guide dog. This strategy not only builds a solid foundation but also speeds up the learning process and minimizes stress for both trainers and puppies.

• Provide rewards and discipline. Treats, praise and playtime encourage puppies to repeat desired behaviors. Simultaneously, it is important to set boundaries and enforce rules to guide their behavior, ensuring they grow into well-behaved guide dogs.

• Ensure their health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations and a balanced

diet are crucial to keeping the puppy healthy and ready for training. A physically fit pooch is more capable of focusing and learning during training sessions.

• Learn to let go. Recognize that saying goodbye is part of the process when the puppy is ready to move on to specialized training or to be paired with their person. Focus on the incredible impact the dog will have on someone’s life.

Training Programs and Organizations

After leaving their foster families, usually around the age of 12 to 18 months, guide-dog candidates will enter a formal training program, such as the one offered by the nonprofit Guide Dogs for the Blind, the largest school of its kind in North America, with campuses in California, Oregon and Canada. Here, the young canines learn specialized skills needed to assist their future owners—a process that takes at least another year. All of the training and support is provided free of charge, made possible by donors and volunteers.

• Communicate with the experts. Always seek support and advice from the training organization and document the puppy’s progress. This will help the foster family avoid missteps or make early corrections in caretaking and training. Future trainers or handlers will also benefit from the documentation.

• Stay informed. Keep up to date on new training techniques and trends in the field of service animals to enhance the fostering experience.

To learn more, visit Guide Dogs for the Blind (GuideDogs.com), Seeing Eye Dogs (SeeingEye.org) and Guiding Eyes for the Blind (GuidingEyes.org). There are numerous ways to help these organizations such as volunteering time, donating money, fostering puppies or assisting in awareness campaigns.

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

Your Mind is Your Best Friend. But it Can Also Be Your Worst Enemy. Your mind is constantly sabotaging your potential for both performance and happiness. All your negative emotions, including stress, are the result of self-sabotage.

Learn How To Effectively Manage:

Calendar of Events

Wednesday, May 1

Blueberries for Books – Thru July 2. Everyone’s favorite fundraiser is back. Summer isn’t complete without that box (or boxes) of fresh New Jersey blueberries sold to benefit Fredricksen Library. Order through July 2 with pickup on July 10. $34; $35 if ordered online. Fredricksen Library, 100 N 19th St, Camp Hill. 717-761-3900. FredricksenLibrary.org.

Saturday, May 4

Yoga Foundations Workshop – May 4 & 11. 9:30-11am. This 2-day yoga course offers a foundation in poses, breathing and meditation. Gain strength, flexibility and confidence to explore more yoga styles in a supportive environment. Perfect for beginners. $68. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

Introduction to Tea Leaf Reading – 1-3pm. Learn the basics of tasseography, symbol interpretation and divination history. Enjoy a cup of tea, turn the cup and discover its messages. $42. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

Tarot & Tacos – 5-7:30pm. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with tacos, tarot readings and fun. Step into a realm where mysticism meets culinary delight. Enjoy delicious food and gain insights into the future. $88. Firefly Hollow Wellness Center, 200 Farm Ln, York. 717-814-9136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

Sunday, May 5

Sound Healing & Reiki in the Salt Cave –10am. Molly Rae Randall utilizes her many years of music education, teaching and performance in activating the Tibetan Singing Bowls, producing a resonance that relaxes and calms while healing is guided through reiki. $35. Zen & Now Wellness, 6009 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg. 717-657-6281. ZenNowWellness.com.

Thursday, May 9

Yoga and Sound Immersion – 5:30-7pm. Join Sharon Owens for a gentle yoga with sound

immersion at the end. $20. Crystal Cove Collective, 2208 Gettysburg Rd, Camp Hill. 717-731-2830. CrystalCovePA.com.

Saturday, May 11

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. Pre-register: 717240-0400 or Info@Gracefull-Heart.com Gracefull-Heart.com.

Wednesday, May 15

Reiki Self-Care Focus – 6-8pm. With Heather Mulhollan. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic benefits of halotherapy in the salt cave. To enhance your experience, Heather will provide individual reiki sessions and to the group. $35. Zen & Now Wellness, 6009 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg. 717-657-6281. ZenNowWellness.com.

Thursday, May 16

The Power of Your Breath – 6-8pm. Learn different breathwork techniques to help manage stress and anxiety, increase energy and focus, balance the body and prepare for deep sleep. Handouts included. $30. Blue Morpho Wellness, 9 N Baltimore Ave, Mt Holly Springs. Pre-registration required: 717-486-7823 or MellaLunaHealing.simpletix.com.

Saturday, May 18

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 Info@Gracefull-Heart. com. Gracefull-Heart.com.

Spring Event Day – 10:30am-6:30pm. Sales throughout the store plus oracle card reading, reiki and a tie dye class in the morning. Free admission. Crystal Cove Collective, 2208

NaturalCentralPA.com

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Find additional articles and videos online at NaturalCentralPA.com. Go to the Home page and click on the “In This Issue” image in the top carousel or in the right column.

Women’s Expo to Feature Local Businesses, Free Entertainment

Find fun & rejuvenation at the Dauphin County Women’s Expo, Saturday, June 1, from 9-2 at the Hershey Lodge. Read about all the events taking place that day.

What You Don’t Know About Lyme Disease Could Hurt You

Yoga Love Festival

The PA Lyme Resource Network provides information about prevention, testing & treatment of Lyme or tick-borne diseases.

Green Living

Women Nurturing Mother Earth

The Growing Influence of Female Environmentalists

See details about the third annual Central Pennsylvania Yoga Love Festival, May 25 – 26, at the Amethyst Retreat Center with this year’s theme, Gratitude.

Embracing the Shadows

A Guide to Healing Your Shadow Self

Mattie Miller from Carlisle Creative Vibes, discusses psychologist Carl Jung’s believe that exploring & embracing our shadow self is a path to wholeness & self-discovery.

More women are playing a tremendous role in the green economy & are creating a sustainable, just & resilient economy.

Eco Tip Sustainable Menstrual Options

Inspiration Giving Back To Mother Earth

We are all custodians of the Earth. Here are tips to help you fight the good fight & ways to help decrease our toxic impact, preserve our woodlands & clean up our oceans.

The ecological impact of disposable feminine hygiene products is substantial. Nearly 200,000 tons of waste from sanitary napkins, tampons & applicators are thrown into U.S. landfills every year. Here are new options.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR OWN HEALTH WITH AN AT-HOME TEST.

Convenient, confidential and accurate health testing for women and men with online results in a matter of days. Catered with you in mind, LetsGetChecked wellness tests include fertility & hormone, thyroid, cancer screening, general wellness, sexual health and more.

Order the right test for you.

Gettysburg Rd, Camp Hill. 717-731-2830. CrystalCovePA.com.

Monday, May 20

Yoga, Salt & Sound – 6:30-7:30pm. With Sharin Owens Kabetek. This is an intimate setting with only 8 spaces available to experience savasana yoga in a sound and dry salt-infused setting of the salt cave. $35. Zen & Now Wellness, 6009 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg. 717-657-6281. ZenNowWellness.com.

Tuesday, May 21

Herbs 101: Herbs for Day & Night – 6-8pm. Pat Banzhoff talks about and demonstrates the use of herbs for daytime focus and emotional balance, as well as nighttime sleep support. Receive a sample of Sweet Dreams Balm to take home. $30. Carlisle Creative Vibes, 152 N Hanover St, Carlisle. 223-2690519. CarlisleCreativeVibes.com.

Shot Farm, 1925 McClure’s Gap Rd, Carlisle. 717-486-7823. MellaLunaHealing.com.

Sunday, May 26

Call Me Mother Drag & Variety Show –2-4pm. Celebrate the vibrant bond between Drag Performer Parents and their Drag Children. Join us as families strut their stuff, dazzle the stage, and showcase the beauty of mentorship and creativity. $35/VIP, $15/ advance, $20/day of. Carlisle Creative Vibes, 152 N Hanover St, Carlisle. 223-269-0519. CarlisleCreativeVibes.com.

Friday, May 31

Psychic Gallery – 7-9:30pm. Psychic William Stillman delivers insights and predictions at a live event similar to popular TV shows. First hour features messages from beyond, followed by audience Q&A. Limited to 30 seats; arrive early. $36. New Visions Books and Gifts, 2594 Eastern Blvd, York. 717-8149136. FireflyHollowWellness.com.

Wednesday, May 22

Shamanic Journey and Sound Healing

Plan Ahead

Collect your sample.

Confidence.

Visit LetsGetChecked.com today.

20% off EVERYTHING USE CODE NASC at cart

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 Info@Gracefull-Heart.com Gracefull-Heart.com.

Saturday, May 25

Yoga + Sip Saturday – 10-11am. Enjoy an all-levels yoga class in this beautiful outdoor setting. Bring own mat and props. No preregistration needed. Weather permitting. $10 cash or check. The Winery at The Long

Saturday, June 1

Save the Date

Saturday, June 1

Dauphin County Women’s Expo –9am-2pm. The Women’s Expo brings together women of all ages to shop, learn about products and services, and be entertained. Exhibitors will represent beauty, home, health and wellness, fashion, finance, technology and more. Free. Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr, Hershey. 717-285-8150. aGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com.

Affection is responsible for nine-tenths of whatever solid and durable happiness there is in our lives.

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 29.

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

6009 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg 717-657-1951 • ZenNowWellness.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 • MellaLunaHealing.com

Dawn provides compassionate service to deepen the under-standing 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 non-invasive 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 6. 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. u

CARLISLE BOWENWORK

Betsy Payne

616 W Main St, Mechanicsburg 717-386-8279

• CarlisleBowenworkPA.com

Betsy a Bowenwork practitioner, LMT, CranioSacral Therapist and certified personal trainer, offers a variety of services, using Scar Tissue Release technique to increase mobility, flexibility and create pain relief; plus, the Voila Method, which brings balance to joints and offers a unique way to achieve emotional release under stress. u

THE CENTER OF BALANCE, LLC

Louise Kemper, RMI, Reflexologist, EOP, Artist

Leslie Kemper Punt, Holistic Health Practitioner

25 N Jefferson St, Greencastle 717-643-1404

TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com

Experience the healing benefits of halotherapy with a 20-minute session in our salt booth or the detoxifying benefits of an ionic foot bath.  We also 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. 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, non-GMO industrial hemp. Helps relieve stress, maintain focus, manage pain, calm digestion and more. See ad, page 3. u

Coaching

COACH DAN GORMLEY

Innervida LLC

DGormley23@outlook.com

904-377-5789 • PositiveIntelligence.com

Learn to recognize and balance your 10 inner saboteurs. Join a 7-week Transformational Coaching Pod and discover how to empathize, explore, innovate, navigate and activate your right-brain sage powers. See ad, page 32.

Craniosacral Therapy

LOVING HEART BLISSFUL SOUL

Carrie Tetkoskie, RN

1953 W Trindle Rd, Carlisle • 717-603-1732

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

Creativity may be hard to nurture, but it’s easy to thwart.

—Adam Grant

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

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 6. 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. u

Massage

ELEMENTS MASSAGE

Kacie Jenkins

6416 Carlisle Pike #3200, Mechanicsburg 717-766-2280

ElementsMassage.com/Mechanicsburg

Not all massage is created equal. Experience the difference Elements can make. Our skilled massage therapists listen to your needs and employ the proper techniques to deliver a truly therapeutic experience. Elements Massage in Mechanicsburg invites you to experience the rejuvenating benefits of therapeutic massage today and discover the positive effect it can have on your body and your well-being.

HAPPIE SOUL WELLNESS

Cristina L Dunbar, LMT 5000 Lenker St, Ste 103, Mechanicsburg 717-254-7250 • HappieSoul.me

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, pages 13 and 27. u

THE BALANCE

Brenda Baxter

2201 Forest Hill Dr, Harrisburg 717-877-7533 • BalanceIsYours.com

We offer massage, reflexology and reiki to reduce stress, avoid chronic disease and increase relaxation for better emotional health; Detoxification to alleviate stressors and toxins and to strengthen your immune system, gut and overall health; plus, a mix of body work programs to increase vitality and help you live a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. See ad, page 16. u

Metaphysical

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Pat Banzhoff, M.S.

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519 • CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Shaman with an M.S. in Counseling, Pat is a Reiki Master, psychotherapist and wedding officiant, and offers intuitive readings, individual shamanic healing sessions, home cleansing and clearings, fire ceremonies and a variety of workshops teaching different ceremonies and intuitive practices. See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Mary Cooney

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519 • CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Mary is a certified life coach and tarot reader who includes runes in her intuitive practice. She loves introducing the tarot and runes to those not familiar with divination tools and gives guidance in career goals, purpose and relationships. See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Natty Jewett

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519

• CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Natty offers intuitive readings through the ancient art of Cryatallomancy and Tarot. She is passionate about helping others to become the most authentic versions of themselves. See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Mattie Miller

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519

• CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Usui Reiki Practitioner, offering traditional & intuitive healing for all beings. Using energetic and metaphysical methods, Mattie’s passion is to create a comfortable space for others to feel and then heal.  See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Julia Rillo

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519

• CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Usui Reiki Master, shamanic reiki master, shamanic life coach, recovery specialist and an IPHM certified crystal healer. Julia’s passion is guiding and teaching others as they navigate their own healing journey. See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Matthew Scott

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519

• CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

A community of diverse artists and practitioners creating an inclusive space for everyone. Includes 35+ vendors offering unique items such as crystals, holistic products, upcycled items, candles, clothing, jewelry, plants, and more. For intuitive readings or healing sessions, visit the website for availability. We are a wonderful community that truly welcomes all. Pay us a visit and say hello. See ad, page 19. u

CARLISLE CREATIVE VIBES

Dawn Tule

152 N Hanover St, Carlisle 223-269-0519 • CarlisleCreativeVibes.com

Animal communication, canine energy plus bodywork, face reflexology, custom intuitive energy healing. Dawn has more than 20 years of experience as a healing practitioner. See ad, page 19. u

CRYSTAL COVE COLLECTIVE

Krista Prinkey

2208 Gettysburg Rd, Camp Hill 717-731-2830 • CrystalCovePA.com

A unique and diverse retail store offering gems, crystals, stones, fossils and jewelry, plus wood art and tables, natural art, soaps, body scrubs and much more. A wellness center offering a variety of classes, healing sessions with multiple practitioners, card and psychic readings and community events. YouTube: Crystal Cove Channel. u

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 31. u

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 7. u

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, col laborative naturopathic prac tice in central PA. She provides a safe, effective and affordable alternative to conventional health care. See ad, page 7. 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 in-dividualized holistic approach to health. See ad, page 7. u

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Ashlyn Zikmund, BS, ND

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

Nutrition

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 7. u

SONNEWALD NATURAL FOODS

4796 Lehman Rd, Spring Grove 717-225-3825 • Sonnewald.org

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 throughout the year. See ad, back cover. u

A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.

—Zen Shin

In-store Nature’s Marketplace features natural foods, supplements, herbal remedies and foods for special dietary needs. See ad, page 2 u

Nutritionist

NATURAL PATHS TO WELLNESS

Shannon Hillsinger, ND

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

Dr. Shannon is passionate about using holistic nutrition to promote a speedier and more complete return to optimal health. This includes preparing custom meal plans, implementing dietary restrictions, optimizing nutrient/caloric goals and finding recipes to ensure treatment plan success.  Shannon’s nutrition and naturopathic medical background positions her as an ideal asset in her patients’ health journeys. See ad, page 7. u

Real Estate

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

Noel Kelley

3915 Market St, Camp Hill

717-761-4800 (office) • 917-602-2672 (cell) NoelKelleyHomes.com

Noel is a Usui Reiki Master Practitioner and Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty dedicated to helping you find home. More than just finding a house, it’s about finding a space that impacts your overall well-being. Connect and learn about her unique and harmonious approach to the home-buying experience. See ad, page 7. u

Reflexology

MIND BODY SOLE REFLEXOLOGY

Marisa Straub

Camp Hill • 717-497-6077

MindBodySoleReflexology.com

Marisa is a certified reflexologist serving babies to adults! Reflexology can help reduce arthritis and sciatic pain, insomnia, anxiety, stress and headaches. Reflexology helps relieve common ailments in babies and can alleviate stress, anxiety and ADHD symptoms in children. Marisa offers foot / hand reflexology, Japanese Cosmo Lift TM , and ear candling.

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 client-led 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, page 9. u

Salons – Spas – Medspas

YOUVEAU AESTHETICS MEDSPA & WELLNESS

Alicia Stidfole

2417 North Front St, Harrisburg 717-417-4470 • Youveau.org

Experience Youveau luxury Medspa on the riverfront. Create a tailored plan with our expert providers, offering I.V. therapy, massage, reiki, facials, muscle relaxer (tox) and filler injections, Microneedling, platelet rich plasma/fibrin (PRP and PRF) treatments, counseling, neurofeedback, henna, facial rejuvenation, youthful restoration, hair loss treatment and more. Schedule a free consultation. See ad, page 11. 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 19. 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 31. u

Wellness

5TH ELEMENT ENERGY SPA

Bonnie Mirecki & Denise Nickey

Wellsville, PA • 717-432-3577

5thElementEnergySpa.com

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 10. u

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, nature-themed crafts and artwork from local artists. See ad, page 10. 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. 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 31. u

LIFEWAVE

Ann M Heintzelman

2802 W Rosegarden Blvd 717-480-3357 • Lifewave.com/AnnMh

Working as a hygienist for 37 years, Ann listened to her patient’s struggles with health issues. Now she’s an advocate for X-39; offering an affordable, non-invasive way to restore health and vitality using phototherapy to activate stem cells. Not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any diseases. For informational purposes only. If pregnant or nursing, consult your physician. Learn more at StartX39now.com. u

REITZ NATURAL REMEDIES

Nicole Reitz

18 E Penn Ave, Cleona 717-641-3290

• ReitzNaturalRemedies.com

We provide nutritional testing and offer balancing techniques to assist your body in healing itself, as well as PEMF Therapy for pain relief and healing acceleration. Testing services can be provided in person or via mail. u

THE CENTER OF BALANCE, LLC

Louise Kemper, RMI, Reflexologist, EOP, Artist

Leslie Kemper Punt, Holistic Health Practitioner

25 N Jefferson St, Greencastle 717-643-1404

• TheCenterOfBalanceLLC.com

Offering holistic services that help maintain proper balance of mind, body and soul, including free “Knowledge is Power” classes.  Certified Therapeutic Art Practitioner provides art as therapy. Certified Stress Management Consultants design personalized programs for companies and groups. Private events, retreats and specialty parties available. Check website for current and upcoming class information. u

WHOLISTICALLY SIMPLE RX

Dr. Tia McLaughlin 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, wholebody approach. Education regarding labs and medications is also available. u

Yoga

YOUR 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

Classifieds

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, 30 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

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.

Wellness Product

HAVE PAIN? CAN’T SLEEP? – Lifewave X-39 patches activate your stem cells to a younger, healthier state. Wear the non-transdermal patches for 12 hours during the day and stay hydrated. Not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any diseases. For informational purposes only. If pregnant or nursing, consult your physician. Learn more: StartX39now.com. Enroll: Tinyurl.com/EnrollX39Ann. Email: Annmh80@gmail.com. See listing, this page.

It is vital that when educating our children's brains that we do not neglect to educate their hearts.

—Dalai Lama