BEYOND KIBBLE

How to Shop for the Healthiest Pet Food

by Sheila Julson

People are always striving to improve the quality of life for their pets. For some, this means making homemade dog and cat food or buying meat directly from a local butcher, but not all pet parents have the necessary time, space or fi nances. While there are better quality kibble and canned pet foods available today than in the past, along with frozen raw and freeze-dried raw foods, an overwhelming volume of choices can confuse even the savviest consumer.

Cecille O’Brien Greenleaf, a holistic veterinarian in San Jose, California, advises pet parents to use the same criteria they do when shopping for human food—look for the freshest, cleanest ingredients possible, a limited ingredient panel and no chemicals and pesticides.

“Look for human-grade ingredients that off er the most vitality,” she emphasizes. She notes that some larger manufacturers have been caught using the least expensive ingredients they could fi nd, including diseased animals that have been rejected from the human supply chain.

Ingredients on panels are listed by weight from highest to lowest, so the fi rst one listed is the one that weighs the most. It should be pure meat— chicken, beef, venison or fi sh. Proteins such as chicken liver, organ meat or eggs may follow. “If there are many synthesized items in the ingredient list, that is to be avoided,” she says.

Frozen raw and dehydrated raw foods provide optimal nutrition while more closely mimicking pets’ primal eating patterns. Th e extrusion process that some pet food manufacturers use to make kibble can overcook the product. To compensate, synthesized vitamins are oft en sprayed onto the fi nished product, similar to how many children’s breakfast cereals are produced, she explains.

When purchasing kibble, look for brands that are minimally processed and provide vitamins directly from the ingredients; a long list of supplements on an ingredient list means the food has been highly processed.

Th ere has been recent debate within the animal care community as to whether grain-free diets are more helpful or harmful to pets. O’Brien Greenleaf notes the jury is still out on how some grains aff ect pets or whether grain-free diets are better. “It depends on how contaminated or genetically modifi ed the grains are, and whether grains agree with your pet,” she says. Testing is now available to help determine ingredients to which a pet may be allergic. She also recommends adding high-quality fi sh oil to pet’s food to help quell infl ammation that can cause skin issues and other disorders.

Smaller Manufacturers Emphasize Quality Control

Randi Ross owns the franchise in Campbell, California, for Ben’s Barketplace, a Northern California pet food store chain that specializes in quality foods for dogs and cats. She notes that corporate mergers and acquisitions over the years have put many large pet food brands that are carried at big-box stores into the hands of conglomerates that also produce candy, soap and other non-pet products. Th is can lead to lack of oversight and quality control issues.

Many smaller, specialty pet food stores carefully screen the brands they carry. Th ey off er products made by smaller companies that produce just pet food and embrace a holistic, farm-to-table philosophy regarding how they source their ingredients and manufacture their foods. Th e melamine pet food recall of 2007, in which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found chemical contaminants in vegetable proteins imported from China used as ingredients in pet food, prompted many people to look for “Made in the United States” on packages.

However, even if a brand is labeled as American- or North American-made, it doesn’t necessarily mean all of the ingredients were sourced from America, Ross says.

Freeze-dried raw meal toppers and pour-over broths have become popular ways to add nutrition and flavor to kibble. When purchasing those products, she says, the same rules apply as when shopping for food: look for single or limitedingredients on product panels and be wary of excessive filler ingredients like corn or wheat.

“We help educate people on the true cost of pet ownership,” Ross says. “Spending a little more money now on high-quality pet food ultimately keeps dogs and cats healthier, reducing the need for veterinarian visits, pharmaceuticals and antibiotics.”

Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.

NOTE: Events were accurate at the time the magazine went to press – please call ahead to check for date or time changes. All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review submissions guidelines at NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com for more information.

TUESDAY, MARCH 1

Phipps Sustainable Plants – Thru Mar 28. Hosted by Phipps Conservatory. Order from a curated selection of native plants that feed and foster native bees, butterflies and birds. Disease and pest resistant. $30-$38 at PlantShop.Conservatory.org. Shipping not available. Must be picked up at Phipps Garden Center, Mellon Park. 412-622-6914.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3

Taste of the Season: Levelled Up Comfort Food

– 6-7:30pm. Virtual class by Chef Emily Larson and Phipps Conservatory. Make toasted gnocchi with bacon, goat cheese, and chives. Ingredient lists include local farms and brands with glutenfree and vegan alternatives. $25/members, $30/ nonmembers. Info: 412-622-6914. Tickets: 3989p. blackbaudhosting.com. Restorative Yoga – 7:30pm. Hosted online by HIP Yoga with Monette Shuttleworth. $12/drop-in, $48/four-class package, $120/10-class package. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

First Friday Hike: Invasive Walk – 10-11:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust at Bethel Green Conservation Area. Walk will focus on invasive species at Bethel Green. Rain or shine. No walk-ins. $5. 412-741-2750. Register: AlleghenyLandTrust. networkforgood.com/events.

100-Year Anniversary Screening: Nosferatu:

A Symphony of Horror – 8pm. Screening of the classic silent horror film hosted by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust at Harris theater with live accompaniment of the original musical score by local legend Tom Roberts. $15/ticket. Harris Theater, 809 Liberty Ave. 412-930-8053. Tickets: Trustarts.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6

Sacred Sounds at the Salt Cave – 4-5pm. Salt of the Earth and Sacred Centered You host a relaxing, powerful meditative experience in the salt cave, with healing vibrations of crystalbowls. Himalayan salt is an antibacterial and natural antiseptic that helps reduce inflammation and open breathing passages. $45. 504 Valley Brook Rd. SaltOfTheEarthpgh.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

Rings-n-Things: Part 1 – 1-3pm. Hosted by Appalachian Creativity Center with Barbara Bailey teaching part one of a class of ring wire wrapping. Part 2 on 3/19. $35 includes materials for both classes to make multiple rings. 139 W Crawford Ave, Connellsville. RSVP: 724-208-1746.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16

50 Tips for Maximizing Garage Sale Revenue – 7-8:30pm. Free online event by Peters Township Public Library with appraiser, auctioneer, downsizing expert and author Mike Ivankovich. Learn tips and strategies to help bring in more cash at yard sales. Register: ptlib.org/50tips. 724-941-9430. Restorative Yoga – 7:30pm. Hosted online by HIP Yoga with Monette Shuttleworth. $12/drop-in. $48/ four-class package, $120/10-class package. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

FRIDAY, MARCH 18

Tea & Chocolate Pairing – 7-8pm. Event by the Tea Shoppe at Seneca Center. Pair and taste a variety of teas with hand-made artisan chocolates from Twenty-Four Blackbirds of Santa Barbara, CA. $22.50. The Tea Shoppe, 709 Beechurst Ave, Ste 23, Morgantown, WV. 304-413-0890. RSVP required: TheTeaShoppewv.com/shop/tea-chocolate-pairing-2. Beautiful – The Carole King Musical – Mar 18-20 (times vary). Hosted by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust at the Benedum Center. The story of legendary Carol King, who wrote the soundtrack for a generation, featuring a stunning array of her most beloved songs. Tickets: $33-$110. Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, 719 Liberty Ave. Tickets: Trustarts.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 19

Two-Day Basic Wilderness Survival – Mar 19-20. 10am, Sat to noon, Sun. Two-day, one night event by True North Wilderness Survival School at Quebec Run Wild Area. Learn skills to deal with outdoor emergencies. Wilderness survival as taught by U.S. military. 412-913-6000. Super Science Saturday: Monster Fish – 10am4pm. Event at Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Children ages 7-12 and their families. Explore the science and lore of elusive giant fish. Free with museum admission ($12-$20). Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Ave. Tickets: Carnegiemnh.org/event/super-science-saturdaymonster-fish/. Rings-n-Things: Part 2 – 1-3pm. Hosted by Appalachian Creativity Center with Barbara Bailey teaching part two of a class of ring wire wrapping. $35 includes materials for both classes to make multiple rings. 139 W Crawford Ave, Connellsville. RSVP: 724-208-1746.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20

Yoga and Ayurveda: Preparing for Spring – 2-4pm. Hosted by OMBody Yoga. Learn about Dinacharya (daily routine) and the Ayurveda Clock for your unique constitution. Gentle yoga postures, breathwork and guided relaxation. Learn Ayurveda lifestyle habits to soothe and bolster the nervous system. $28/tickets. Info: 724-320-9386. Tickets: Schedulicity.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 21

Spring Cleanse – Mar 21-25. With Steve Manns, the Wellness Warrior coach. Not a juice cleanse! Manns’ will supply shopping list, recipes, pre-detox call, and support throughout. Early bird price $77 thru 3/17. $99/thereafter. Register: WellnessWarrior. coach/spring-detox.html. The Pittsburgh Humanities Festival – Mar 2127. Hosted by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and the Humanities Center at Carnegie Mellon University. Conversations and performances on Pittsburgh’s history, policy and politics, Kennywood, racial inequities, drag culture, food, art, Shakespeare, and more with acclaimed artists and performers, community leaders and change-makers. Highlights: Sh!tfaced Shakespeare; Ali Stroker; Dulche’ Sloan. Core Conversations. Schedule, prices, venues, and tickets: Trustarts.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23

Seeds of Intention Workshop for Ostra/Spring

Equinox – 6-8pm. Hosted by Thrive on Health and 3 Rivers Outdoor Company. Welcome spring at the campfire, planting seeds of intention, crafting flower crowns, and meditating with live plants to ground and connect with earth/Gaia. $20 includes potted plant, flower crown, seasonal beverage. 1130 S Braddock Ave. Register: 3RiversOutdoor.com/ events/springseeds.

THURSDAY, MARCH 24

Vanka Murals Table Talk: Other Voices. Other

Walls – Free online event by Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka as co-sponsor of keynote: Exterior Landscapes, Interior Lives: on Photography and Mapping the Cultural Memory of the City. Presented by Njaimeh Njie, Multimedia storyteller. 412-408-3180. Register: ucis.pitt.edu/ global/events.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26

savethedate

SATURDAY, MARCH 26

Nourish the Body Mind & Soul Expo – Mar 26-27. 10am-5pm. Hosted by Grazie Ventures at the Monroeville Convention Center. $10/ day or $15/weekend pass. Children under 10/ free. Admission includes all exhibits, minilectures, and presentations. 209 Mall Plaza Blvd, Monroeville.

Sweet and Savory Scones – Noon-3pm. In-person event by CRAFT at Chatham University, Eden Hall Farm. For the avid home baker, learn technique of making flaky tender scones and create recipes with ingredients in the kitchen or the garden. $65. 6035 Ridge Rd, Gibsonia. Register: Craft.chatham.edu/events. Earth Hour 2022 – Shape Our Future – 4:305:30pm. Sponsored by World Wildlife Federation and Earth Hour. Join people from hundreds of nations around the Earth in turning off your lights to bring awareness and attention to the need for living sustainably and creating a carbon-neutral future. Info: EarthHour.org.

Phipps Conservatory Backyard Gardening

Series: Indoor Seed Starting – 7-8:30pm. Live webinar by Phipps Conservatory. Learn steps and equipment for successful seed planting. Get a head start on a quality garden and be ready when warm weather hits. $15/members, $20/nonmembers. Info: 412-622-6914. Tickets: 3989p.blackbaudhosting.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 31

Pittsburgh Pierogis – 6-7pm. Online event hosted by Phipps Conservatory. Join Chef Emily Larson in celebrating Pittsburgh by making the famous Pittsburgh Pierogi from scratch. Tickets: $25/members, $30/nonmembers. 412-622-6914. Tickets: 3989p. blackbaudhosting.com.

ongoing events

sunday

Heartfulness Meditation – 11am-noon. 1st Sun. Hosted by Heartfulness Pittsburgh. Age 15 and up. Cost-free guided relaxation and meditation. Learn the basics and benefits of heartfulness. Be casual. Winchester Thurston Lower School in Shadyside, Rm 202. Info: Heartfulness.org. Sacred Sounds – 1-2:30pm. 3rd Sun. Hosted by Sacred Centered You and Visions Reiki & Soul Spa. $25. Join Leza for a relaxing, powerful meditative experience, sound immersion with crystal bowls, and individual healing vibrations through the gong. 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785. Tickets at Eventbrite. ship with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Food distribution for Veterans and Military Families in need. Fresh produce, shelf stable goods. No-contact pickup. No sign-up or RSVP. 2934 Smallman St. 412-481-8200 ext 221. Restorative Yoga and Reiki Healing – Thru Mar. 5:30-6:30pm or 7-8pm. With Sandra. Revive your being with restorative yoga, reiki, and the health benefits of the Himalayan salt cave. Salt of the Earth, 504 Valley Brook Rd, McMurray, 724-260-0472. Register: Clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/ws. Children’s Fine Art Classes – 5:30-6:30pm. Hosted by Arty by April Ryan. Kids learn basic art techniques starting in charcoal and progressing to acrylic painting. Get kids off the screen and into hands-on creativity. $20/class plus supplies. Thistledown Boutique, 151 S Main St, Washington, PA. 724-470-3775. Yoga for Wellbeing – 5:30-6:30pm. Wellbeing Solutions hosts in-person (limit four) or online to harmonize body, mind, spirit, and breath with your dedication to attendance. Colleen Harshbarger, ERYT-500 and MS in Exercise Science Biomechanics, provides alignment-based instruction. All levels. $8. 304-508-2398. Wellbeingwv.com. Roll, Flow and Renew – 6-7:15pm. With Jill Sansom. Fusion of self-myofascial rolling, gentle yoga and a long, restorative asana. $15/drop-ins. $40/four-class pass. Visions Reiki & Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785. Reiki and Restorative Yoga – 6-6:45pm & 7-7:45pm. $15/drop-ins, $40/four-class pass. Visions Reiki & Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785.

Sunday’s Restorative Rejuvenation – 5-6:30pm. 3rd Sun. Hosted by Morgantown Power Yoga. All levels welcome. Learn to use breath, props, and focused awareness to decrease stress and anxiety in the body and the mind. Compliment your power yoga practice with restorative rejuvenation. $25. 235 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV. Tickets: Clients. MindBodyOnline.com.

Find Your Roots: Six Sundays of Foundation and

Community with Maryellen – 5:30-7pm. Jan 2: Standing Poses; Jan 9: Modifications; Jan 16: Twists and Backbends; Jan 23: Breath and Meditation; Jan 30: Flowing; Feb 6: Philosophy and Intention Setting. All levels. Earn 10 hours towards 300-hour teacher training. $150. One Point One Yoga, 4929 Penn Ave. 412-256-8072.

monday

Military Share Pittsburgh Food Distribution –Noon-2pm. Various Mondays – check schedule. Hosted by Veterans Leadership Program in partner-

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Monday Evening with the Wellness Warrior –6:30-7:15pm. Learn about a different health and wellness topic every week. Zoom in at Zoom. us/j/92446493853. Meeting ID: 924 4649. Steve@ WellnessWarrior.coach Guiding Light: An Empath Assembly – 6:30-8pm. Free online event hosted by Sacred Centered You. Calling all lightworkers, empaths, and high vibrating souls. Join their monthly assembly to share space. Register: SacredCenteredYou.com/events. 1 Hood Power Hour – 7-8pm. A virtual forum hosted by 1 Hood Power to discuss all things political in SWPA and beyond. A virtual public affairs forum featuring elected officials, policymakers and thought leaders. 617-517-7600. Facebook. com/1HoodPower.

tuesday

Managing Career Transition and Life Dur-

ing Uncertain Times – Noon-1pm. Online event by The Salon – a Female-Forward Space to Gather and Grow. $10. Tickets: Eventbrite. TheSalonPGH.com. Family Night at the Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh –6-9pm. 2nd Tue. Hosted by Hofbrauhaus. Kids eat free with each adult entrée purchase. 2705 S Water St. 412-224-2328. The Salty Core – 7-8pm. 4th Tue. Hosted by Salt of the Earth and Valleybrook Pilates & Fitness. Pilates in the Cave to lengthen and expand muscles for a leaner, stronger you. Incorporate breath, stretch, and strengthening. Open to all levels. 504 Valley Brook Rd, McMurray, PA. Tickets: SaltOfTheEarthpgh.com. Laser Cutting Workshop – Thru Nov. 7-9pm. Meets once a month. Hosted by Prototype PGH. Learn to use the Full Spectrum Muse CO2 Laser at Prototype PGH for etching and cutting. This laser cutter can cut acrylic, fabric, leather, paper, rubber and wood. It can also etch coated metals, glass, and stone. $10 at Eventbrite. 460 Melwood Ave, Oakland. Info: PrototypePGH.com.

wednesday

Yoga for Wellbeing – 8:30-9:30am. Wellbeing Solutions hosts in-person (limit four) or online to harmonize body, mind, spirit, and breath with your dedication to attendance. Colleen Harshbarger, ERYT-500 and MS in Exercise Science Biomechanics, provides alignment-based instruction. All levels. $8. 304-508-2398. Wellbeingwv.com. Vinyasa Flow Yoga – 10-11am. With Jill Sansome, hosted by Visions Reiki & Soul Spa. Vinyasa connects the breath with movement with focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance. $15/drop-ins, $40/ four-class pass. 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-7451785. Register; VisionsReikiSoulAndSpa.com/yoga.

Wild Wednesday: Virtual Live Animal Encoun-

ter – 1:30-2pm. Online event hosted by Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Join museum educators via Zoom to meet members of the museum’s living collection. Each week is unique! $10/household ($5/ members). 412-622-3131. Register at Carnegiemnh. org/explore/live-animal-encounters/. Yoga and Sound Bath – 7-8:15pm. 1st Wed. With Susannah Azzaro. $25. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434. Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 2nd Thurs. Hosted by Spruce Street United Methodist Church. All ages and abilities with variations to accommodate health and movement issues, with students sitting or standing next to a chair. Emphasis on meditative practices. Wear comfortable clothing. 386 Spruce St, Morgantown, W Virginia. 304292-3359. Yoga – 10-11:30am. With Nancy Micheals. A series designed to focus on specific areas of the body to strengthen and stretch muscles. Classes will help participants build strength, balance the body’s system, increase body awareness, and increase energy while learning specific postures. CDC guidelines observed. YWCA Westmoreland County, 424 N Main St, Greensburg. 724-834-9390. Info@ywcawestmoreland.org. ywcawestmoreland. org/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/YWCA-Fall2020-Classes-and-Workshop-Insert.pdf. Zoom Family Storytime – 10:30-11am. Free online event hosted by C.C. Mellor Memorial Library. 1 Pennwood Ave. 412-731-0909. Tickets via Eventbrite. Wellbeing Solutions Webinars – Noon-1pm. 2nd & 4th Thur. Self-Care as Healthcare with BoardCertified Health and Wellness Coach and Yoga teacher Colleen Harshbarger and Natalie Geary, MD and Ayurveda Therapist. COVID rate: $25 1st (trial class); $40/thereafter. 4-pack: $150; 8-pack: $280. 12-pack: $399 includes one-year Wellness Inventory subscription ($49.95 value). On-demand times for groups. 304-508-2398. Info/register: Wellbingwv. com/webinars. Gentle Flow Yoga – 4-5pm. With Jill Sansome, hosted by Visions Reiki & Soul Spa. Gentle Flow is slow yoga - great for all levels. Encourages movement, mindfulness, breath control, and holding poses. $15/drop-in, $40/four-class pass. 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785. VisionsReikiSoulAndSpa.com/yoga. Group Meditation and Reiki Virtual Healing –7-9pm. Last Thurs of the month. Online event by Prana-Veda Studio and Victoria Zaitz. Virtual group energy healing with reiki and shamanic techniques. In-depth guided meditation followed by distance work. $25. 412-390-5245. Tickets: Vagaro.com/ pranaveda/classes.

friday

First Friday Walk/Hike – 10-11:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust at various interesting parks and green areas around greater Pittsburgh. For info on location, focus, and cost go to AlleghenyLandTrust.networkforgood.com/events. 412-741-2750. Friday Family Walk – 10am-noon. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. First Friday of every month. Enjoy a short story followed by a walk around the Garden, conclude with a simple craft. Trail accommodates off road strollers. Members/free, $15/donation per family suggested. Preregistration required: wvbg. org or Forms.donorsnap.com/form. Write Now! – 10am-noon. Zoom Writer’s Group hosted by Sewickley Public Library. Participants enjoy writing from prompts in an encouraging and supportive atmosphere. Register: us02web.zoom. us. SewickleyLibrary.org.

Bakery Square Toastmasters Weekly Meeting

– Noon. Online event hosted by Bakery Square Toastmasters. Practice public speaking, improve communications, and build leadership skills. People from diverse backgrounds find a warm, supportive group that shares your goals. Visit BakerySquareToastmasters.com for login info.

Friday 101 – Carnegie Science Center Fab Lab

Public Workshops – 1-2pm. Hosted by BNY Mellon Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. Take a crash course in maker technology – learn the basics of 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, and more. $30/nonmembers, $25/members. One Allegheny Ave. 412-237-3400. Register: CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

#Unblurred: First Friday Art Crawl by Green

Mountain Energy – 2-10pm. Hosted by Penn Avenue Arts & Commercial District. Monthly art and entertainment crawl on the first Friday of every month. Stroll Penn Ave from the 4800 to the 5500 block to meet artists and local business owners. Family friendly mix of every form of art. 412-441-6950.

saturday

Gentle Flow Yoga – 8:30-9:30am. With Jill Sansome, hosted by Visions Reiki & Soul Spa at Chartiers Park. Gentle Flow is slow yoga that is great for all levels. Encourages movement, mindfulness, breath control, and holding poses. $15/dropins, $40/four-class pass. 724-745-1785. Register: VisionsReikiSoulAndSpa.com/yoga.

Loving Myself First: Personal Development Se-

ries – 10-11am. 2nd Sat. Free online event hosted by Visions 2020 LLC. Learn real life principles to improve and maximize your personal and professional life. Tickets at Eventbrite. 412-376-2110. Watercolor Workshops –10-11am. 1st and 3rd Sat. Hosted by April Ryan and Thistledown Boutique. $25 includes materials, $20 bring your own. Learn basic drawing and watercolor techniques. 151 S Main St, Washington, PA. 724-470-3775. Tickets: Paypal.com/paypalme/ArtbyAprilRyan. 3D Printer Workshop – Noon-2pm. Hosted by Prototype PGH. Learn to use the Elegoo UV Photocuring 3D resin printer. $10 at Eventbrite. 460 Melwood Ave, Oakland. Info: PrototypePGH.com. Code and Coffee – Noon-2pm. Thru May. In partnership with Node PGH Meetup. Practice your skills, make new friends, get help. Bring your laptop, recent projects, programming problems. All skill levels and programming languages welcome. Free. Donations welcome. Prototype PGH 460 Melwood Ave, Oakland. Info: PrototypePGH.com.

Chakra a Month Workshop Series with Brooke

Shmokelin – Thru July. 1-3pm, Sat; 7:30-8:30pm, Wed. Online or in person: sessions recorded. Take a transformational journey of self-discovery, deep dive into self, activate and explore chakras one at a time, learn specific yoga poses and practices for each chakra. 25 CEUs for yoga instructors. Two levels: $385 or $1060. Info/register: Brookesmokelin.kartra. com/page/2022ChakraAMonthONLINEJan-July. Live Streaming Musical Cooking Class – 2-3pm. With Gabrielle Reyes, One Great Vegan. Free online event on TikTok, Instragram, and Facebook. Check the menu, get your groceries, sing and cook along in the comfort of your own kitchen. OneGreatVegan.com.

Nature’s Virus Killer

Copper can stop a cold before it starts

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast.

Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria in the nose and on the skin.

Colds start when cold viruses get in your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you don’t stop them early, they spread and cause misery.

In hundreds of studies, EPA and university researchers have confirmed that viruses and bacteria die almost instantly when touched by copper.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about microbes, but now we do.

Scientists say the high conductance of copper disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in seconds.

Tests by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) show germs die fast on copper. So some hospitals tried copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When he felt a cold about to start he fashioned a smooth copper probe and rubbed it gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never got going. That was September 2012. I use copper in the nose every time and I have not had a single cold since then.” “We can’t make product health claims,” he said, “so I can’t say cause and effect. But we know copper is antimicrobial.” He asked relatives and friends to try it. They reported the same thing, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it. The feedback was 99% positive if they used the copper within 3 hours after the first sign of unwanted germs, like a tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat.

Early user Mary Pickrell said, “I can’t believe how good my nose feels.”

“What a wonderful thing!” exclaimed Physician’s Assistant Julie. Another customer asked, “Is it supposed to work that fast?”

Pat McAllister, 70, received one for Christmas and called it “one of the best presents ever. This little jewel really works.”

Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been suffering after crowded flights. Though skeptical, she tried copper on travel days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and

not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. “The kids had crud going round and round, but not me.” Attorney Donna Blight tried copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” A man with trouble breathing through his nose at night tried copper just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in years!” he said. In a lab test, technicians placed 25 million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. No viruses were found surviving soon after. Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams confirming the research. He placed millions of disease germs on copper. “They started to die literally as soon as they touched the surface,” he said. Some people press copper on a lip New device puts copper right right away if a warning tingle suggests where you need it. unwanted germs gathering there. The handle is curved and textured to increase contact. Copper can kill germs picked up on fingers and hands after you touch things other people have touched. The EPA says copper still works even when Dr. Bill Keevil: tarnished. Copper quickly kills CopperZap is made cold viruses. in the U.S. of pure copper. It has a 90-day full money back guarantee. It is available for $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA27. Go to www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. Buy once, use forever. Statements are not intended as product health claims and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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

Lisa Cunningham Old-Fashioned Family Herbalist 308 Liberty St, Perryopolis, PA 724-736-2400

BIOLOGIC DENTISTRY

JANET LAZARUS – BIOLOGIC DENTIST

Dr Janet Lazarus, DMD, NMD Mail: 4313 Walnut St, Ste 178 Office: Olympia Shopping Ctr Arcade, McKeesport • 412-754-2020 • Dr.Lazlo@hotmail.com Dr. Lazarus practices compassionate biologic dentistry by looking at the whole body to offer preventative care and health maintenance. She offers compatibility testing on dental material, safe mercury removal, extraction and a host of other treatments including ozone therapy. She has been practicing for 28 years. See ad, page 6.

CHIROPRACTIC

PANTHER FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND CHIROPRACTIC

Dr Danielle Marra, DC Murrysville • Greensburg 724-387-1014 • PittsburghHealthPro.com Dr. Danielle Marra has nearly 20 years’ experience helping patients regain their health through conservative and holistic approaches utilizing functional medicine, chiropractic, diet modifications, and nutritional support. The practice provides advanced lab testing, allergy relief, spinal decompression, CDL physicals, massage therapy, thermography and more. Their philosophy is treating the root of your symptoms, naturally. See ad, page 6.

ESSENTIAL OILS

NATURAL WELLNESS

Colleen Anthony 2001 Kinvara Dr, Pittsburgh 412-491-2319 • My.Doterra.com/cmanthony Provides natural options for a variety of health concerns using essential oils and natural products. A DoTerra essential oil advocate that offers a natural, holistic approach that empowers you to take control of your health and well-being.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

PANTHER FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Danielle Mara, DC Murrysville • Greensburg 724-387-1014 • PittsburghHealthPro.com Dr. Danielle Mara has nearly 20 years’ experience helping patients regain their health through conservative and holistic approaches utilizing functional medicine, chiropractic, diet modifications and nutritional support. Plus advanced lab testing, allergy relief, spinal decompression, CDL physicals, massage therapy, thermography and more. Their philosophy is treating the root of your symptoms, naturally. See ad, page 6. HEALTH COACH

COTERIE

Calli Tony, CPT 139 W Crawford Ave, Connellsville 724-562-0682 • CalliTonycpt.com Calli is the founder of Coterie and Calli Tony CPT. She is an intuitive healer, specializing in mindset and movement. At her foundation she is a Certified Personal Trainer and Holistic Health Coach, who is deeply passionate about embodiment practices.

WELLNESS WARRIOR COACH

Steve Manns, NB-HWC, PHC2, CPT Monroeville and Online Health and Wellness Coaching 724-516-2244 • WellnessWarrior.Coach A national board-certified health and wellness coach offering well-being collaboration through behavior change. A healthy body and mind lead to a happy and healthy life. Come start your adventure to reconnect with a better you through education, nutrition, coaching and accountability. See ad, page 11.

HEALTH FOOD

EVEREST EATS

EverestEats.com Orders@everesteats.com A local Pittsburgh plant-based meal delivery service providing, sourced, sustainable, flavorful, and nutritious meals to the Pittsburgh community.

THE KEFIR CHICKS

Connellsville, PA TheKefirChicks.com TheKefirChicks@gmail.com Facebook.com/TheKefirChicks Kathy and Haley, The Kefir Chicks, are two chicks on a mission to bring awareness to everyone about whole foods and gut health through whole, probiotic-packed food medicine – water kefir. See ad, page 3. Nothing fancy here; just hundreds of organic bulk medicinal herbs at your beck and call. Heal yourself ~ help others. In service and gratitude always. No Facebook, no website, no social media. Not enough thyme! Just you and I and your blessed healing herbs.

HOMEOPATHY

MELANIE KRNETA

DIP HOM. ACH, Reiki Master 1215 B Liberty St, Franklin, PA • 814-428-9895 Facebook: Melanie Krneta Homoeopathy Plus Classical homoeopathic consultations providing individualized care for the entire family. Migraines, hormonal imbalances, PTSD, grief, arthritis, digestive imbalance. Reiki sessions are beneficial for relaxation and pain management. Other services provided are far infrared sauna with medical grade color therapy and Himalayan salt and ear candling.

NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS

NAPTURAL BEAUTY SUPPLY

724-307-8487 NapturalBeautySupply.com Naptural Beauty Supply was created to end the stigma around natural hair by empowering men and women to love themselves naturally. We do this by instilling confidence in our community and increasing convenience by having the tools and services in one place, such as hair and body butters, beard care and apparel. We are beauty supply with naturals in mind! See ad, page 18.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

DR. ARETI, LLC

Dr. Areti Fitsioris 421 Cochran Rd, Pittsburgh 412-419-1537 (call/text) • Facebook.com/Dr.Areti Dr. Areti is a board-certified naturopathic physician who implements manual therapy, lifestyle medicine, nutritional analysis, and non-invasive methods to address functional and structural imbalances – services are 100% grounded in evidence-based science. She goes the extra mile to identify and address root causes of conditions and to provide ongoing support.

No matter how chaotic it is, wildflowers will still spring up in the middle of nowhere. ~Sheryl Crow

412-258-0766 • SacredCenteredYou.com Leza is known widely for her abilities as a sound healer, inspirational speaker and interfaith spiritual counselor. Healing arts services include vibrational sound healing, past life and soul regression, journey work counseling and conscious relationships counseling. Private and group services off ered. Lesa Vivio, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, DDiv, DSM.

URBAN FARMING

GROW PITTSBURGH

Raqueeb Bey, Garden Resource Coordinator 6587 Hamilton Ave, Ste 2W, Pittsburgh 412-362-4769 ext 215 • GrowPittsburgh.org Raqueeb@GrowPittsburgh.org Grow Pittsburgh is an urban, agriculture nonprofi t that teaches people how to grow food. They envision the day when everyone grows and eats fresh, local and healthy food. Get involved. Take a tour, become a member, learn, volunteer! Visit their website for workshops and events.

VIBRATIONAL MEDICINE

ROOTED IN SOUND

Wyatt Melius 2000 Smallman St, Pittsburgh 412-609-8999 • RootedInSound.com Sound massage, Nada yoga, forest bathing, and acoustic-induced meditation. Check the calendar for sound baths on Sundays and Thursdays. See ad, page 18.

SACRED, CENTERED, YOU, LLC

412-258-0766 SacredCenteredYou.com Offering individual and group experiences that promote healing through self-discovery and personal acceptance. Special focus on sound healing, life coaching, qigong, and vibrational medicine.

WELLNESS

360 CAFÉ LLC

Tyleda Worou Pittsburgh • 724-374-8089 • 360CafeLLC.com 360 Café LLC is an alternative health and wellness business with the goal of helping others to heal from the inside out while taking a holistic approach to healing by offering distance reiki, and crystal healing sessions to help our consumers restore physical and emotional balance. See ad, page 11. Himalayan Salt Cave and Crystal Boutique 504 Valleybrook Rd,McMurray, PA 15317 724-260-0472 • SaltOfTheEarthPgh.com Experience the known ancient healing benefi ts of halotherapy in the Himalayan salt cave, built from 16 tons of pure Himalayan salt. 45-minute sessions scheduled on the hour. Can be rented for private groups up to 10. Provides an inviting and relaxing environment for events and classes: yoga, meditation, sound healing, and reiki. The crystal boutique offers an array of authentic crystals, jewelry, candles, locally-made bath and body, and Himalayan salt products. The knowledgeable staff will help fi nd the right crystal for you or your home décor. See ad, page 7.

VISIONS REIKI AND SOUL SPA

206 Alexander Ave, Strabane 724-745-1785 • VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com As a full-service energy-health and wellness center, our goal is to empower people to be the best version of themselves. With the understanding that all wellness begins with a healthy energy system, Visions Reiki and Soul Spa off ers holistic services, workshops, and coaching to help you establish a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle.

YOGA AND MEDITATION

CHAKRA YOGA HEALING

Brooke Smokelin For more than 15 years helping people feel better and shine brighter through a unique combination of chakra activation tools and vibrational restoration techniques. Come in for a chakra tune-up and get your chakras right and bright for the New Year! How brightly do you want to shine?

JENNY DAYTON YOGA

Jenny Dayton, E-RYT, YACEP MountainYogaShala@gmail.com 724-550-3661

Jenny off ers indoor and outdoor yoga throughout the Laurel Highlands. She also off ers private therapeutic yoga lessons, Ayurveda and aromatherapy sessions by appointment. Virtual options are also available. For more information and to view the class schedule and locations, visit JennyDaytonYoga.com.

THE HIMALAYAN INSTITUTE OF PITTSBURGH

300 Beverly Rd, Pittsburgh 412-344-7434 • HipYoga.org The Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh is committed to creating and supporting programs for wellness in body, mind and spirit. Their purpose is to promote personal peace and global unity. Offering a daily schedule of yoga and meditation classes and healing services including massage, reiki and Ayurvedic health consultations. They are a leader in education, providing authentic yoga and Ayurveda certifi cation programs. See ad, page 7. Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $20 for the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word. To place an ad, email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com. OPPORTUNITIES

ADVERTISING SALES – Natural Awakenings magazine is looking for experienced advertising salespeople covering the Greater Pittsburgh area, SW Pennsylvania and Morgantown WV to help others grow their natural health & wellness and sustainable living or green businesses. Commission-based. Full- or part-time. Paying 25% commission. Unlimited potential income. Be a part of something magical! Send resume to Michelle: Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com.

PRODUCTS

McCORMICK FAMILY FARM – 100% grass-fed/fi nished beef, pasture-raised chicken, and pure maple syrup following beyond organic, regenerative farming practices. 293 McCormic Rd, Portage, PA. 814-472-7259. Facebook: @ TheMcCormickFamilyFarm

SERVICES

READING POETRY RELAXES – Inquire at: wewuvpoetry@hotmail.com or P.O. Box 4725, Pittsburgh, PA 15206-0725.

Natural Awakenings Client Testimonial

I have been advertising since the beginning of Natural Awakenings and I have to say. that it has been a great choice! I have gotten a lot of new patients from her magazine. The covers are always colorful and fun! Michelle has been very helpful and she is always available when I need to talk to her. I would highly recommend this magazine if you are considering advertising.

~Dr Janet Lazarus