Natural Awakenings Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona, February 2025 Edition

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THE VERSATILE WORLD OF COCOA

Happy Heart METRO PHOENIX & NORTHERN ARIZONA EDITION

FEBRUARY 2025

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COMPLIMENTARY

Anil Gupta

on Immediate Happiness THE VERSATILE WORLD OF COCOA

Healing Ways Terri Zollinger

Metabolic Health Strategies

Weight Management With the Help of Medications Happy Heart FEBRUARY 2025

Health Briefs

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Contents 12 The Thriving Heart 15 Handmade Gifts for Valentine’s Day 16 Stretching for Heart Health 18 Bringing Back the Monarch Butterfly

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20 Chocolate Champions 22 Healthy Mouth, Healthy Heart

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26

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24 Holistic Lifestyle for Dogs 25 Healing Power of Hugs 26 Trends in Child Dentistry

Departments 9 News Brief 10 Health Briefs 11 Global Briefs 12 Feature Story 15 Eco Tip

Advertising To learn more about advertising, visit NaturalAZ.com/pages/advertise. The deadline for ads is the 10th of the month prior to the next edition.

16 Fit Body 18 Green Living 20 Conscious Eating 24 Natural Pet

25 Inspiration 26 Healthy Kids 29 Farmers Markets 30 Business Directory

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February 2025

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Publisher ’s Letter HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Hugs I couldn’t agree more with this month’s article “Healing Power of Hugs,” on page 25, and I extend this wonderful human connection to how it feels to hug and be hugged by my animal friends.

PHOENIX & NORTHERN ARIZONA EDITION Publisher Tracy Patterson, BSc, MES

One memory comes to mind that unequivocally supports the notion that animals do indeed hug. Years ago, I bought a Paint horse named Willie from a family friend. He was a great horse, but I ended up buying another horse (a story for another time), which meant I could not afford to board both of them. Reluctantly, I sold Willie to a man we knew through my dad.

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Time went by, and my mom found herself in need of a new horse. Willie came to mind out of the blue, and we contacted the man on the off chance that he would sell him back to us.

As it happened, the man was not riding Willie anymore, and he agreed to the sale. I wasn’t sure if Willie would remember me, as it had been close to a decade since I’d sold him. I had heard updates on how he was doing but didn’t visit because I thought it would be too hard on him—or, more to the point, on me.

When we got to the boarding stable, mom and I wandered around the big pasture looking for him. Suddenly, we saw him, still the beauty we remembered him to be. He saw us too and started walking over as we walked toward him. When he got to me, he wrapped his neck around me and just stood there, pressing his head and neck into me in a huge, long hug. There was no question that he remembered. It was incredible, and my mom just stood there bawling her eyes out! Needless to say, Willie came back to us and stayed with us for the rest of his life.

In hindsight, I’m not sure why I ever thought he wouldn’t remember, but that hug spoke volumes. As the article states, a good, strong hug can mean many things. But taking a lesson from my experience with Willie, I realize that, for me, hugging mostly means deep caring on both parts as “we share the heartbeat of the present moment.”

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© 2025 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Please note that all deadlines (advertising and editorial) are the 5th of the month prior to the edition being published. For example, February 5 is the deadline for all March edition submissions.

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News Brief

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February 2025

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Health Briefs

3D Printed Teeth A binaural beat is an auditory illusion created by the brain when two different tones are played in each ear simultaneously, creating the perception of a third tone.

Listening to binaural beats may help train the mind to increase creativity, enter a meditative state, reduce anxiety or improve mental focus.

Pheelings Media from Getty Images/CanvaPro

A Turkish study published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine investigated the effect of using binaural beats with patients undergoing a sedation-free upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Forty-eight patients in the binaural beats group wore headphones and listened to music 15 minutes before the endoscopy, and the control group of 48 patients was given no pre-procedure treatment. The binaural beats group experienced significantly lower anxiety and better tolerated the endoscopy procedure than the control group.

Formlabs, a leading supplier of 3D printers, has introduced Premium Teeth Resin, made with biocompatible material that the company claims enhances aesthetics and has been validated for longevity. The resin can be used for 3-dimensional printing of dentures; temporary full-arch implant-supported restorations; and temporary crowns, inlays, onlays, veneers and bridges up to seven units. Formlabs reports that Premium Teeth Resin is cleared for use in the U.S., European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland and Canada.

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Binaural Beats To Lower Anxiety

A study published in BMC Medicine compared the effects of a vegan diet versus an omnivorous diet on the biological age of 21 pairs of healthy, adult identical twins. The study comprised two four-week phases: delivered meals and self-provided meals. The participants also received nutritional education about choosing minimally processed foods and building balanced plates. Food intake details were captured at the start of the study and again at week four and week eight. Blood tests were taken at the beginning and end of the study to measure DNA methylation, a marker of biological age. Only the vegan group showed a reduction in biological age, with an average reduction of .63 years after eight weeks on the diet. Reductions in the estimated ages of the heart, hormone, liver, inflammatory and metabolic systems were also noted.

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Izobrazheniya pol'zovatelya Anton Estrada/CanvaPro

Diet To Reduce Biological Age

Global Briefs

Ice-Free Arctic Day

Phasing Out Dry-Cleaning Chemical

To make their prediction, the scientists used climate models that simulate trends in global temperatures and Arctic sea ice concentrations. They warn that the only way to avoid an ice-free day within this decade is to cut emissions fast enough to cap global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius. An ice-free Arctic Ocean in the summer is expected to warm the upper ocean and accelerate climate change. Such a change could induce more extreme weather events around the globe and negatively impact the Arctic ecosystem, from zooplankton to the polar bear.

Newly acquired dry-cleaning machines are prohibited from using PCE after six months. The compliance dates for machines that are already in service vary depending on the type of machine; older models will be phased out sooner.

Many dry cleaners have already begun the transition to alternative products. The EPA rule is intended to eliminate the health risk to people that work in dry-cleaning facilities.

A 2009 study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that people living in buildings with a dry cleaner had higher rates of kidney cancer.

In December 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a 10-year phaseout for the use of perchloroethylene (PCE), although most uses will be fully phased out in less than three years. PCE is a solvent used for consumer applications, such as brake cleaners and adhesives, as well as for industrial uses, such as dry cleaning, the production of refrigerants and the processing of petroleum at refineries.

primipil from Getty Images/CanvaPro

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An article in the journal Nature Communications predicts that the first ice-free day in the Arctic Ocean could come as early as 2027, which would be the first visible transition from a white Arctic Ocean to a predominantly blue body of water during the summer. Conditions for an ice-free Arctic Ocean arise when there are less than 1 million square kilometers of ice. While other studies have estimated that the mean ice cover may be less than 1 million square kilometers by September 2050, this research was focused on determining when the first day might occur.

Starch-Based Plastic

timsa from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

Among the sustainable products featured at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas, the Honoree in Sustainability & Energy/Power award was given to Retarch, a starch-based product that is as strong and durable as plastic but eco-friendly and 100 percent biodegradable. Developed by TheDay1Lab, a South Korean biomaterial company, Retarch is made from natural, non-synthesized polymers that can break down on land and in water without leaving behind harmful chemicals or microplastics. The material can be customized for a wide range of applications that currently use plastics, such as packaging and consumer goods. According to TheDay1Lab, Retarch is free from 42 harmful substances and releases up to 86 percent less CO2 than petroleum-based plastics.

February 2025

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Feature Story

The Thriving Heart Integrative Approaches to Cardiology

by Carrie Jackson

A

strategies for a more balanced and effective approach to heart health.

why people develop cardiovascular disease, which is the number one killer worldwide.”

The 100-Year Heart

Wolfson notes that cardiovascular health begins by giving the heart the nutrition it needs to thrive. “Food is medicine, and a paleo-based diet like our ancestors followed has been shown to optimize heart function,” he says. “I recommend patients focus on eating wild seafood and pasture-raised meats such as bison, including organs like the heart and liver. This is supplemented by foraging for things like eggs, raw dairy, nuts, seeds, avocados, coconuts and other fruits and vegetables.”

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, bestselling author and founder of the site NaturalHeartDoctor.com. He pioneered the 100-year heart method, which focuses on what he calls “thrival” nutrition, lifestyle, biohacking and ultra-diagnostics to lead a life filled with vitality, clarity and longevity. “Our approach is root-cause medicine, which puts pharma last,” he explains. “By looking at daily habits and lifestyle choices, we are able to see

Peoplelmages.com - Yuri A/Shutterstock

lthough only the size of a fist, our hearts pump blood to our organs and supply oxygen and nutrients to our cells, allowing every system to function optimally. Maintaining a healthy heart is one of the most important factors for overall wellness, and cardiovascular disease is highly preventable. Integrative cardiology, which focuses on treating the whole person rather than just the heart, reflects a shift toward more individualized, patient-centered care. Using personalized nutrition, expansive blood testing, advanced therapies and holistic practices, doctors and patients can blend the best of traditional and integrative

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How we live has a dramatic effect on heart health, and Wolfson asserts that there are a number of lifestyle factors we can control.

“A thrival lifestyle centers around being outside in natural sunlight and participating in activities we enjoy. When combined with a positive mindset and high-quality sleep, these practices increase longevity and contribute to a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment,” he says. “It’s also essential to avoid environmental toxins, such as air pollution, plastic and indoor pollutants like mold from water damage, to the best of your ability. Finally, managing stress and getting movement throughout your day are key to optimal cardiovascular function.”

A truly holistic approach to wellness combines many interrelated tools. “Find an activity you love to do outside, whether that’s hiking, biking, stand-up paddleboarding or yoga. Before you begin, turn your attention inward and think of three things you are grateful for,” Wolfson advises. “This gratitude practice helps you find your happy place, and it gives you a sense of purpose in a world where that’s becoming increasingly difficult.

It engages the autonomic nervous system, which controls functions like heart rate and blood pressure.”

Wolfson believes that for a healthy mind, body and heart, a chiropractor should be the gatekeeper to overall wellness. “Chiropractic care uses the manipulations of bones in a purposeful way to make impactful changes to the neurologic system. It sends out beneficial, efferent signals to all of the cells, tissues and organs, including the heart. It also helps to get us out of the ‘fight-flight-or-freeze’ mode that so many people are operating in,” he remarks.

“Chronic stress from work, family, news and finances keeps the sympathetic nervous system activated, but chiropractic treatments help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows us to rest and digest.”

To kickstart heart health even further, Wolfson’s 100-year heart method uses thrival biohacking methods such as supplements and non-surgical recovery therapies. “Evidence-based, food-grade supplements from field-harvested animals and wild fish support heart function without chemicals or pharmaceuticals,” he points out. “People also may

need additional minerals like magnesium, herbal remedies, probiotics or detox strategies if they’ve been living around pollutants.

Non-invasive technologies like red light therapy, sauna use, massage, ozone therapy and other cutting-edge treatments help to hack our system and support a healthy heart.”

[imbalance] or bacteria overgrowth. Finally, we conduct an in-home study on sleep, which is an integral part of cardiovascular health. Someone with sleep apnea can snore and stop breathing, putting them at increased risk for heart disease, heart failure and high blood pressure,” she says.

Treating the Whole Person

Advanced cardiovascular testing shows additional valuable data. “An EndoPAT tells us if the lining of the blood vessels is making nitric oxide, the most important ingredient for heart health. This is a 40-minute, inoffice procedure that does not require radiation. Since cardiovascular disease is an inflammatory disease, we do advanced lipid testing to measure inflammatory markers. A highsensitivity C-reactive protein test measures the level of C-reactive protein in your blood to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. A 24-hour blood pressure cuff tells us what’s happening throughout the day, and a continuous glucose monitor shows how blood sugar reacts to foods. It’s also valuable feedback to the patient, who can see how their body responds to what they’re ingesting,” says Guarneri.

Dr. Mimi Guarneri is a California-based cardiologist; the medical director of Pacific Pearl La Jolla; an award-winning researcher, consultant and philanthropist; and president of the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine. In her practice, she combines conventional, integrative and natural medicine to holistically treat the whole patient.

Guarneri says that while cardiovascular disease is still largely misunderstood, it is also highly preventable. “People think it’s a disease of cholesterol, but it’s actually due to inflammation, oxidative stress and immune response,” she explains. “Inflammation can come from obesity, stress, sleep apnea, poor food choices and food sensitivities, and that is what causes damage to the lining of the blood vessels. In the conventional medicine realm, that means telling patients to stop smoking, lose weight and get blood pressure and cholesterol under control. From a holistic perspective, we look at all the lifestyle factors that contribute to heart health.”

When treating a patient with heart disease, Guarneri uses the metaphor of a tree with sick branches. “Instead of just cutting them off, you have to look at the soil to see what can be causing the illness. The soil of our lives includes micro- and macro-nutrition, a healthy microbiome, avoiding toxins, highquality sleep, physical activity and mental, emotional and spiritual wellness. All these factors contribute to healthy heart function,” she says.

Guarneri uses advanced testing to assess a patient’s baseline heart health. “We begin with a blood and urine micronutrient analysis, which measures the level of antioxidants and nutrients in the body. Then we conduct a microbiome analysis, which is a three-day stool test that shows how someone is digesting their food. We can see every type of microbe, any parasites and if there is dysbiosis

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With all this data, the team creates a road map to health. “We make recommendations based on each patient’s individual needs, including supplements, food choices and lifestyle modifications,” she says.

“I may suggest nutraceuticals to complete something that’s missing, such as vitamin D, or I may use them to treat a problem. We’ll prescribe omega-3 [fatty acids] if your triglycerides are high, but we’re also going to give you a low glycemic index diet.”

Guarneri works with patients to manage stress through mindfulness, meditation, exercise and other lifestyle choices. “If you are in constant ‘fight-or-flight’ mode, you are producing adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol, which cause blood pressure to go up, the coronary arteries to constrict, cholesterol to increase and oxidative stress to develop,” she explains.

Guarneri points to a study involving Black Americans with hypertension that showed a 48 percent reduction in cardiovascular events through the use of transcendental meditation. “Mindfulness has also been shown to improve telomeres, telomerase and other genes of aging. Making conscious decisions in our behavior in response to stress is key to overall wellness and cardiovascular function. If your habit is to go home and have a drink after a hard day, we encourage patients to put on their tennis shoes and take a walk instead,” she says.

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The Future of Cardiology

New advancements in cardiology are made all the time. In the coming year, cardiologists and researchers are expected to dig deeper into lipid disorders, obesity management and RNA-based therapies for conditions like cardiac amyloidosis, heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We can also expect to see an increase of awareness and interest in the role lipidology [the study of lipids or fatty acids] has on cardiovascular disease. “Preventive cardiologists and clinical lipidologists like myself have been checking Lp(a) levels for well over two decades now, but there has been little we could do medically to reduce high levels,” says Yasmine S. Ali, MD, MSCI, FACC, FACP, adding that a number of nucleic acid therapeutic trials suggest this may change soon.

Experts stress that despite technological treatment advancements, preventative care is still the most effective way to ensure cardiovascular health. “Everyday lifestyle choices have the biggest impact on overall wellness and living a life of vitality, clarity and longevity,” says Wolfson.

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Eco Tip

Handmade Gifts for Valentine’s Day

Recycled Heart Wreath

Thumbprint Heart Jar

simarik from Getty Images Signature/ CanvaPro

Paint six to 10 toilet paper tubes red and let them dry. Flatten the rolls and cut them into four equal-sized rings. Indent each ring to shape it into a heart and arrange them into a larger heart shape. Glue the pieces together and allow them to dry for several hours. Then, make holes on the top of the large heart—one on each side—thread a piece of twine or string through the holes and secure it to make a hanger for the wreath.

Use empty jars to make upcycled vases for flowers. Wash and dry the containers, then paint the exterior with white acrylic or spray paint. When the paint is fully dry, create heart shapes on the jar using a finger dipped in red or pink paint. After the hearts dry, spray the jar with a clear sealant to protect the art. Fill the jars with flowers and deliver them to that special Valentine.

additional five minutes, watching carefully to ensure they do not burn. Once thoroughly melted, remove the molds from the oven and let cool completely. Then carefully remove the colorful crayons from the molds.

Birdseed Ornament

An ideal gift for any bird lover, this heart-shaped ornament is a delicious treat for feathered friends. Following the directions on the packaging, dissolve two packets of gelatin in hot water. Add one-and-a-half cups of birdseed to the gelatin and stir thoroughly. Place parchment paper and heart-shaped cookie cutters on a baking sheet. Pour the birdseed mixture into the molds and press down. Place a piece of straw near the top of the mold to create a hole for the string. Put the baking sheet with the ornaments in the refrigerator for 24 hours. After the ornaments have fully hardened, remove the straw and thread a piece of twine through the hole, tying it so the ornaments can be hung outside for birds to enjoy.

Sarah Throckmorton from Getty Images/ CanvaPro

F

ebruary 14 is a time to celebrate romantic and platonic love among friends, family, coworkers, teachers, pets and significant others. Expressions of affection and adoration are traditionally made through the exchange of cards, flowers, candy and other gifts, prompting consumers to spend nearly $26 billion in 2024, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. This Valentine’s Day, say “I love you” with one of these heartfelt, do-it-yourself crafts that are easy on the planet and the wallet.

Melted Crayon Hearts

Having kids means there are usually broken crayons everywhere.

Use the pieces to make a new, colorful, heart-shaped crayon. Collect the old crayons, remove any labels and break them into small pieces. Heat the oven to 200° F. Overfill heart-shaped silicone baking molds with broken crayon (they will condense as they melt).

Place the molds on a baking sheet in the oven for 25 minutes or until the crayons are melted. If after 25 minutes the crayons are not melted, raise the temperature to 225o F and bake for an February 2025

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Fit Body

Stretching for Heart Health Gentle Movements To Regulate Stress and Circulation

Chest-Opener Stretch: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Clasp hands behind the back and gently lift them up as the chest is opened toward the ceiling. Hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Opening up the chest is great for posture; it also expands the lungs and improves breathing, boosting oxygen intake, which the heart needs to fuel the body efficiently and maintain healthy circulation.

by Maya Whitman

A 2020 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests that stretching exercises reduce arterial stiffness, resting heart rate and diastolic blood pressure, generally improving the functioning of blood vessels in adults.

A 2020 study published in The Journal of Physiology by the University of Milan also found improved blood flow, lower blood pressure and decreased stiffness of the arteries in 54 participants that completed a 12-week stretching program. People with stiff arteries often have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or inflammation. Good blood flow reduces arterial wall damage and may lower the risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Try these heart-healthy stretches at least two to three days a week, and repeat each stretch on both sides two to four times.

without straining. Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds to gently stretch the hamstrings and lower back, while taking deep, controlled breaths to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the heart and muscles. Combining physical movement with mindful breathing reduces stress—a key factor in heart disease.

Cat-Cow Stretch: Begin in a tabletop position with hands and knees on the floor.

For the “cat” pose, arch the back toward the ceiling while tucking the chin to the chest.

Gently shift into the “cow” position by lifting the head while allowing the belly to drop toward the floor. Flow between these two poses for 30 to 40 seconds, focusing on breathing. This stretch improves circulation, relieves tension in the spine and facilitates better blood flow throughout the body. It also enhances the connection between breath and movement, promoting relaxation and a steady heart rate.

Side Neck Stretch: Sit or stand tall, keeping the shoulders relaxed. Slowly tilt the head toward one shoulder until there is a feeling of a light stretch along the opposite side of the neck. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds and repeat on the other side. Stress often builds

Seated Forward Bend: Sit on the floor with legs extended straight ahead. Keep the back straight and slowly reach forward for the toes, stretching as far as possible 16

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Downward Dog: Start in a tabletop position. Tuck the toes under and lift the hips toward the ceiling to form an inverted “V” shape. Keep the heels as close to the floor as possible and hold for 30 seconds while breathing deeply. This popular yoga pose stretches the shoulders, hamstrings and calves while promoting blood flow to the heart and brain and relieving tension in the body. It also encourages a calm, yet focused state of mind.

All article images CanvaPro

T

he beauty of stretching is that it doesn’t require fancy equipment or hours of dedication. And, it doesn’t just improve flexibility and range of motion in the joints and muscles. In just a few minutes, simple stretches can reduce stress and improve heart health and circulation, too.

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up in the neck and shoulders, which can lead to tension headaches and increased blood pressure. These gentle neck movements will modulate blood pressure and encourage relaxation. Pair the stretch with slow, controlled breathing to calm the nervous system, which can positively impact the heart.

Seated Spinal Twist: Sit on the floor with legs extended. Bend the right knee and place the right foot on the outside of the left thigh. Place the right hand on the floor

behind the back. Place the left elbow on the outside of the right knee. Twist gradually to the right while keeping the spine tall. Hold for 20 seconds, then repeat on the other side. This stretch improves spinal flexibility and stimulates blood flow around the major arteries of the torso. It also massages the internal organs, aiding digestion and indirectly benefiting cardiovascular health.

front, placing the heel on the ground with the toes pointing upward. Softly bend the other knee and lean forward from the hips, keeping the back straight. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds, then switch legs. Stretching the hamstrings enhances blood circulation in the lower body, which can reduce pressure on the heart. This is particularly helpful for anyone that spends long periods sitting during the day.

Standing Hamstring Stretch: Stand with feet hip-width apart. Extend one leg out in

Maya Whitman is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Green Living

Bringing Back the Monarch Butterfly How Milkweed and City Gardens Can Help

by The Field Museum of Chicago staff

M

onarch butterflies, with their striking orange and black wings, are some of the most recognizable insects in North America, but they are in trouble because their caterpillars can eat only the leaves of milkweed, a native wildflower that has increasingly disappeared. The problem is so extensive that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service submitted a proposal to list the monarch as a threatened species last December.

“This decision comes after a long process, including science-backed modeling that shows the likelihood of monarchs being extinct by 2080 ranges from 56 to 74 percent for the population east of the Rockies, and greater than 99 percent for the Western monarch population,” says Lead Conservation Ecologist Aster Hasle, of the Keller Science Action Center, at Chicago’s Field Museum. Additional modeling suggests that more than 1.3 billion stems of milkweed need to be added to the landscape to stabilize eastern population numbers. Much of that milkweed could be added in cities, Hasle points out.

Adding milkweed across all landscape types is a key strategy in stabilizing the monarch butterfly population. “In proposing listing the monarch as threatened, the Fish and Wildlife Service provided the flexibility to manage milkweed habitat, as needed, without concerns on impacting monarchs.

They did this to encourage more milkweed habitat creation within the monarch’s breeding and migratory range,” says Hasle, a coauthor of the study.

Monarch butterflies have one of the most unusual and demanding migratory patterns of any insect. The eastern population

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Because it takes multiple generations of caterpillars to get the monarch population from Mexico to Canada each year, they must rely on milkweed plants

Mark and Michelle Rogovin

In a 2024 study in the journal Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, urban milkweed plants were monitored to learn what makes city gardens hospitable to monarchs. “In this study, we found that monarchs can find the milkweed, wherever the milkweed is, even if it’s in planters on balconies and rooftops,” explains Geographic Information Systems Analyst Karen Klinger of the Keller Science Action Center at the Field Museum, and the study’s lead author.

begins the year in Mexico and moves up across North America in the spring and summer. “As they travel, they lay their eggs, and when those adults die, the next generation continues the migration northward.

They will make it all the way to southern Canada, and at the end of summer, a new super generation is born that migrates all the way south and survives through the winter,” explains Klinger.

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and on rooftop decks, and we saw some of the most amazing things,” shares Klinger.

“There was one participant who had a planter set on the condominium roof that had five large caterpillars in one photo.”

Urban milkweed gardens are able to bridge this gap. Klinger was a co-author of a 2019 study led by Field Museum scientists that showed that even “concrete jungles” have room for milkweed plants in people’s yards, alleyways and rooftops. “With our 2019 study, we found that a lot of the spaces where milkweed could grow was inaccessible to scientists—there was a lot of milkweed that we couldn’t account for,” says Klinger. “But we also found that there was a lot of enthusiasm among residents to plant milkweed and support monarchs. We took what we learned while searching for milkweed in residential areas and developed a community science project that became the basis of our 2024 paper.”

Based on these observations, the researchers developed several theories about what makes for a successful milkweed garden.

“There are several native species of milkweed, and we found that common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) was very prevalent in people’s gardens and was really key, both in terms of whether monarchs laid their eggs there and how many they laid,” reports Klinger. “Also, kind of surprisingly, older, more established milkweed plants did a lot better; they were more likely to see eggs than younger plants.”

Having a variety of blooming plants was also important for monarchs to lay more eggs on milkweed, as it provided more nectar for the adults.

Klinger and Hasle trained more than 400 community scientist volunteers on how to monitor their milkweed plants for monarch eggs and caterpillars and report back to researchers. Over the course of four years, the team collected 5,905 observations of monarch activity on 810 patches of milkweed in the Chicago metropolitan area. The paper analyzed a portion of this data from 2020 to 2022. “We encouraged participants who had planters on balconies

While monarchs are just one species of insect, they are indicative of the big-picture health of the ecosystems they inhabit. “Because they cross this big landscape from Mexico to Canada, monarchs are an important indicator of what’s happening across a big area,” Hasle asserts.

For more information, visit FieldMuseum.org/department/ keller-science-action-center.

Karen Klinger

throughout their migration path. “There used to be wild milkweed growing along farmland in the Midwest, but now farmers use herbicides that kill the milkweed,” notes Klinger.

Top Five Ways To Support Monarchs 1.

Plant native milkweed species, including common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca).

2.

Plant a variety of nectar plants, ensuring blooming flowers from spring to fall.

3.

Continue managing and adding to the milkweed garden year after year.

4.

Share knowledge and support of monarchs and milkweed with friends and family.

5.

Comment on the proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species at Regulations.gov/document/ FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137-0001.

February 2025

19

Conscious Eating

Chocolate Champions Benefits of Dark Chocolate and Cacao

by Marlaina Donato

A

ncient Mayans prepared beans from the cacao tree, mixed with spices, to make a ceremonial drink that was both sacred and medicinal for them. Today, the market is filled with all sorts of chocolaty treats, but dark chocolate is the low-sugar, nutritional superhero that tickles the tastebuds, boosts the production of mood-enhancing endorphins and delivers flavanols, the antioxidant compounds linked to improved cardiovascular health.

“Chocolate affects us deeply when it comes to our emotions. This is why you get it when you are sad, when you are happy or when you want to show your love.

Chocolate doesn’t just hit the heartstrings, it’s also scientific,” says Chris Davis, a private chef and third-generation cocoa devotee from Belmont, North Carolina, who is passionate about the ingredient’s sweet and savory potential.

How Chocolate Is Made

Chocolate production involves a complex set of steps, beginning with a cacao pod that is larger than the palm of a hand. The seeds inside this pod are fermented, dried and roasted to create cocoa beans, which are comprised of nibs, cocoa butter and an outer shell. The nibs are ground and refined to produce cocoa solids, and the shell is ground into cocoa powder. The most beneficial dark chocolate contains 70 to 90 percent cocoa solids with minimal added sugar and no artificial ingredients such as alkali, a flavor enhancer that greatly diminishes flavanol content.

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Therapeutic Indulgence

“Rich in B vitamins, cacao is full of minerals such as calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and zinc,” says Sara Ratza, from Tarpon Springs, Florida, a clinical herbalist, health practitioner and author of Drinking Chocolate: Ancient Traditions for Modern Healing. “Traditionally, cacao is given to help raise serotonin and level out dopamine, so the Indigenous people share cacao to help those dealing with addictions. Cacao contains hundreds of chemical compounds such as phenethylamine, which is associated with the production of endorphins in the brain.”

According to Ratza, theobromine, cacao’s main chemical constituent that many confuse for caffeine, has psychological effects that enhance mood. Cacao was an important part of

Narong KHUEANKAEW from Getty Images/CanvaPro

The benefits of dark chocolate can be traced back to its high flavanol content. Researchers have discovered that this antioxidant supports the production of nitric oxide, which is crucial for improving circulation, relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.

Flavanols have also been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, which could reduce the risk of diabetes. Observational studies have shown that indulging in one or two small squares (approximately six grams) of highquality chocolate daily reduces the risk of mortality from heart disease.

Another nutritional powerhouse is cacao powder, which is made from raw cacao beans and nibs that are fermented and roasted at much lower temperatures than the beans used to make cocoa powder. Although it is more bitter, cacao powder retains more of the bean’s original nutritional value, including flavonoids and antioxidants.

NaturalAZ.com

CHILI AND COCOA SPICE MIXTURE

her own emotional healing while she grieved the loss of both her brother and father. During the COVID pandemic, she owned and operated a brick-and-mortar chocolate factory and shop. “The stories of people coming in and dealing with the trauma of the time is forever ingrained in my heart,” she recalls.

This can be sprinkled on anything, but it is especially good on steak, chicken, fish or shrimp.

Quanthem from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Ratza recommends using cacao in the form of nibs or powder from reputable sources. “If your chocolate has transparency of the origin and/or farm, generally you are buying a higher-quality product,” she explains. No matter how we revel in dark chocolate or cacao, it is important to opt for the “fair trade” certification that ensures the product was manufactured without child labor and at a fair wage for workers.

YIELD: 1 CUP

½ cup cacao nibs 2 dried chilis 1 Tbsp cumin seeds 1 Tbsp paprika

1 Tbsp salt 1 Tbsp black pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic powder

Mix everything in batches in a coffee grinder until the mixture is powdered.

Store in an airtight container for 30 days.

Recipe courtesy of Chris Davis.

The Savory Side

For most of us, our love affair with chocolate is based on its sweet form, but a whole world of gourmet fare celebrates its versatility beyond the candy bar or smoothie. For Davis, “The magic truly happens when applied in a savory way. There is a whole other flavor profile to chocolate before sugar is added to it when you want to add an earthy depth to a dish or add smokiness to a protein. Almost any sauce I make with wild game, red meat or red wine I will add a bit of cacao to give it the flavor and color that no other ingredient will come close to.” One of his favorite Mexican recipes is mole, a rich and savory sauce made from chilis and chocolate.

HEART-OPENING DRINKING CHOCOLATE YIELD: 1 SERVING ⅛ to ¼ cup cacao paste Dash of cinnamon Dash of cayenne pepper or Cobanero

This traditional drinking chocolate does not need milk to froth because the fat from the bean creates the traditional froth at the top of the mug. The main ingredient, cacao paste, contains a higher level of heart-healthy, moodboosting compounds than found in dark chocolate. For 100 percent pure cacao-bean paste, look for ceremonial-grade cacao, which can be found online or in health food stores.

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

GenAI/CanvaPro

Opening Our Hearts to Chocolate

Ratza believes that consuming chocolate takes us on a journey, if we allow a little time for it to transport and transform us. “Cacao almost forces you to slow down,” she says. “It is important to sit and close your eyes as you sip a cup of cacao or let a piece of chocolate melt on your tongue.”

chili pepper Sprinkle of sea salt Sweetener to taste (optional)

Put all ingredients in a 12-ounce mug. Add just enough hot water (almost boiling) to cover the cacao. Whisk by hand or with a frother. Once blended, pour additional hot water to fill the cup. Sip slowly with eyes closed and enjoy.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Ratza.

February 2025

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Healthy Mouth, Healthy Heart The Major Link Between Dentistry and Heart Health

by Natalie Shaw, DMD

W

The Oral-Systemic Connection

hen thinking of heart health, exercise, eating heart-healthy foods and managing stress likely come to mind. But did you know your dental hygiene plays a key role in keeping your heart healthy? Brushing your teeth might seem unrelated to preventing heart disease, but it has a stronger connection than you may think. Here’s why it’s time to give both your smile and your heart some extra love.

It’s not just about how your teeth look; it’s about how healthy they are. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, isn’t just about bad breath and swollen gums. Studies show that people with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular issues.

Gum disease is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. If untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and bone to recede, forming pockets of infection.

The bacteria from these pockets can enter the bloodstream, triggering an inflammatory response throughout the body. Chronic inflammation is a key factor in developing atherosclerosis. Over time, this can lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

Obstructed Airways: More Than Just Snoring

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But it’s not just gum disease that can affect your heart. Snoring can lead to something more serious.

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If you’ve ever heard someone snore, you’ve probably noticed how loud and disruptive it can be. But did you know that snoring could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea?

This condition, where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, can also impact your heart health.

The good news is that you can treat sleep apnea and protect your teeth at the same time.

Oral appliances can help with an obstructed airway, leading to better sleep. That’s right— getting better sleep might be one of the best things you can do for both your heart and overall well-being.

Mouth Breathing: A Hidden Heart Health Risk

We all know how essential breathing is to life, but did you know that how you breathe matters too? Specifically, breathing through your mouth—especially while sleeping— can have negative effects not only on your dental health but also on your heart.

Mouth breathing can lead to a dry mouth, making it easier for harmful bacteria to

1

Brush and Floss: Brushing with a hydroxyapatite toothpaste and flossing with a thick braided floss will prevent gum disease and reduce inflammation.

multiply and cause gum disease. It also reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. A dry mouth is more prone to cavities, bad breath and gum inflammation.

2

Visit the Dentist Regularly: Seeing your dentist for checkups and cleanings multiple times a year is key.

But the risks don’t stop there. Mouth breathing also means you’re likely not getting as much oxygen and nitric oxide as you should, which can affect your overall oxygen levels and put additional strain on your heart.

That’s because when you breathe through your nose, the air is filtered and humidified and nitric oxide is produced. Nitric oxide increases blood flow and improves oxygen delivery to vital organs. Mouth breathing bypasses this filter, potentially leading to lower oxygen levels and increased pressure on your cardiovascular system.

3

Address Sleep Apnea: If you snore or feel tired during the day, get evaluated for the possibility of sleep apnea.

4

Breathe Through Your Nose: Consciously make an effort to breathe through your nose. Try mouth taping or nasal rinses at night.

5

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising and managing stress are all important for both heart and oral health.

Tips for Keeping a Healthy Mouth

The Bottom Line

By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help protect both your heart and your teeth. Here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your heart—and smile—happy and healthy:

A happy heart and a healthy smile go hand in hand. By taking care of your gums and teeth, you’re not just protecting your smile— you’re also safeguarding your heart!

Adobe Firefly

When your airway gets obstructed, your body struggles to get enough oxygen, which can increase stress on your heart. In response, your heart rate increases and your blood pressure rises. Over time, this can put a strain on your cardiovascular system, and this increased strain may even lead to heart disease or a stroke if left untreated.

At a young age, Dr. Natalie Shaw had extremely misaligned teeth. In fact, she never smiled in public because she felt so insecure about her appearance. After receiving orthodontic treatment, her life was wholeheartedly changed for the better. She realized she wanted to provide that same lasting happiness to others in need—and the rest is history. Dr. Shaw completed her dental doctorate at Midwestern University, in Glendale. She’s also had a very strong interest in holistic/biomimetic dentistry and regularly pursues continuing education. She is certified in the SMART protocol and Invisalign. To learn more, visit MyNaturalDentist.com, where you can take an online airway assessment and download a free e-book. See ad, pages 3 and 14.

Advertorial February 2025

23

Natural Pet

Holistic Lifestyle for Dogs

Choosing the Right Herbs and Mushrooms

How Herbs, Mushrooms and the Outdoors Can Help

Because emotional health is closely tied to physical health, calming herbs and mushrooms can help maintain physical balance by reducing inflammation, supporting digestion and detoxification, and enhancing overall organ function. Here are some of the most effective choices.

by Rita Hogan

• Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

C

aring for a dog holistically involves supporting their body, mind and environment in a balanced, natural way that emphasizes prevention and harmony, rather than merely addressing symptoms. Incorporating herbs and mushrooms into a dog’s daily routine, and learning which are most beneficial throughout the year, are effective ways to achieve this balance. The idea is to support immunity and other internal healing mechanisms before problems arise.

• Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

It is helpful to adopt a “dog-as-ecosystem” approach, where all aspects of their wellbeing are seen as interconnected. A dog’s organs, nervous system, physical health, emotional state and environment continually influence one another. For example, stress can trigger a cascade of responses, such as overstimulating the nervous system, leading to digestive upset or a weakened immune system. Similarly, exposure to toxins might contribute to behavioral changes because the nervous system is inextricably related to the liver’s role in detoxification. Herbs can address these connections and help maintain balance across a dog’s entire ecosystem.

• Milk thistle (Silybum marianum). Use milk thistle seed rather than a standardized extract of silymarin, the active ingredient in milk thistle.

• Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) also stimulates bile production, which aids in the digestion of fats and proper stool formation.

Gen AI/CanvaPro

• Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica/urens) also provides anti-inflammatory vitamins and minerals.

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NaturalAZ.com

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) directly impacts the nervous system by reducing stress-induced gastrointestinal discomfort.

• Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) modulates the immune system, the gut and the nervous system.

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis) improves coat condition, liver function and helps balance the microbiome.

Inspiration

Healing Power of Hugs

by Marlaina Donato

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

1 tsp dried dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) 1 tsp dried milk thistle seeds (Silybum marianum) 1 tsp dried nettle leaf (Urtica dioica/ urens) 1 cup boiling water Combine dandelion root, milk thistle seeds and nettle leaf in a shatterproof glass container. Pour one cup of almost boiling water over the herbs and cover to let them steep for 15 minutes. Strain, reserving the liquid, and cool. Give one tablespoon for every 20 pounds of body weight. It can be mixed with food.

Nature Nurture

Along with a daily infusion of herbs and mushrooms in a dog’s diet, spending time in nature will benefit them tremendously.

Whether walking in the woods, playing fetch at the park or lying in the grass, this connection to Earth provides grounding, mental stimulation, physical exercise and emotional nourishment. Feeding our furry best friends natural, calming ingredients and spending time with them outdoors is the ideal recipe for a balanced, happy and healthy life.

Rita Hogan is a clinical canine herbalist with more than 20 years of experience and author of The Herbal Dog: Holistic Canine Herbalism Applications and Practice. Learn more at CanineHerbalist.com.

“I

have learned that there is more power in a good strong hug than in a thousand meaningful words,” wrote American novelist Ann Hood, and her words ring true for many of us. When in the arms of a loved one, we share the heartbeat of the present moment. Spiritual traditions provide manifold forms of meditative practices, but embracing another human being might be the most enjoyable way to achieve a deep state of calm and mindfulness.

Hugging can be part of our daily spiritual wellness practice, an investment that goes beyond ourselves and into the world, one embrace at a time. Here are a few ideas to get the ripple effect going:

Hugs can mark beginnings, tethering two lives in committed union, or they can punctuate endings when we say goodbye. When we are sick or grieving, allowing someone to gather us in their safe embrace is strong medicine.

• Ask for a hug; initiation is a sign of strength, not neediness.

Science tells us that hugging tames our stress response, bolsters the immune system and helps children to better cope with life later in adulthood. Our arms are energetic extensions of the heart, and welcoming someone into a circle of security is the body’s act of prayer, engaging the emotions and soothing the soul.

• Hug your partner without sexual agenda and connect heart-to-heart.

• Hug your child during happy times, not only on challenging days.

• Hold a hug for at least 20 seconds.

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

Despite all the good a hug might offer, past trauma or inhibition can prevent us from benefiting from this human need for touch.

Asking someone, “May I give you a hug?” is a good place to begin, and so, too, making the decision to receive someone else’s affectionate gesture. For those without loved ones nearby, therapeutic massage, playing with a pet or clutching a favorite stuffed animal can kick off a similar cascade of feel-good chemicals when we are overwhelmed.

Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels/CanvaPro

Stress and Anxiety Herbal Infusion

February 2025

25

Healthy Kids

Trends in Child Dentistry Tech Advances Improve Treatment Outcomes

by Claire Stagg, DDS, MS, FAACP

D

Lasers offer many different wavelengths for multiple purposes. For example, lowlevel laser therapy uses light energy to elicit biological responses, such as pain relief, wound healing, muscle relaxation, immune system modulation and nerve regeneration.

According to Convissar, this type of laser therapy is used in pediatric dentistry to temporarily interrupt the sensation of pain,

Lasers

Although laser technology was first introduced to the dental profession roughly 35 years ago, it has tremendously improved in the last decade. “Recently, laser technology has advanced so significantly that its use, especially in pediatric dentistry, can fill a textbook,” asserts Robert A. Convissar, DDS, a board-certified laser dentist in New York City. A pioneer in laser dentistry, he teaches

Lasers, aligners and digital scanners are among emerging technologies that hold special promise for pediatric dentistry.

oleksandrbedenyuk/CanvaPro

entistry is at the forefront of technological advances, and children benefit daily from more efficient, economical and even lifesaving care that is made possible by these developments.

Although prevention is always better than restoration, three emerging technologies hold special promise for pediatric dentistry. They are lasers, aligners and digital scanners.

the subject worldwide and is the author of the leading textbook Principles and Practices of Laser Dentistry.

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Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona Edition

NaturalAZ.com

permitting fillings and root canal treatments in children’s teeth without injecting an analgesic drug.

well as shape gum profiles to achieve the ideal smile.

“Ultraspeed CO2 lasers can be used to treat week-old babies whose tongues are not mobile enough to latch onto their mothers’ nipples and nurse properly. The procedure is minimally invasive, quick and painless,” he explains, noting that painful breastfeeding and excessive spitting up are two of the most common signs of a tongue tie.

Convissar and the dentists that perform tongue-tie releases work closely with international board-certified lactation consultants to facilitate breastfeeding success.

One critical structure of facial development for growing children is that of the roof of the mouth, which is also the floor of the nose.

Sufficient room for the tongue in the palate is important for both upper and lower airway development. In the past, maxillary expansion to correct serious tooth misalignment was performed with functional appliance therapy, including expanders and braces. Today, invisible trays, or aligners, which made their first appearance in 1997, offer an aesthetic and “invisible” option that allows better oralhygiene maintenance, reduces office visits and lowers the incidence of complications.

“Orthodontists and general dentists are now using CO2, diode and erbium lasers to put the finishing touches on their toothalignment treatments,” Convissar reports.

With these instruments, they are able to fashion tooth length and proportion, as

Aligners

Until recently, these systems were limited when it came to treating cases involving bone and arch development in growing children. Some systems have now introduced

Sufficient room for the tongue in the palate is important for both upper and lower airway development.

an expansion component into their aligner tray systems helping to not only realign teeth, but also develop more room, thus possibly avoiding dental extractions.

The Nuvola OP System employs a morphofunctional corrector to be used for 30 minutes per day with the aligners in place, creating intense and intermittent forces that are directed to the cranial bone bases. A 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health reported “a significant expansion of the maxillary arch, as well as a high degree of patient satisfaction and compliance” with this system.

Digital Scanners

The advent of intra-oral scanners and cameras allows dental practices to take digital impressions in a few minutes with minimal discomfort for patients and outstanding views of the mouth. They have also become more accurate, affordable, smaller, lighter and easier to use.

Dr. Claire Stagg practices holistic, integrative dentistry in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida. She is the author of Smile, It’s All Connected! For more information, visit HealthConnectionsDentistry.com.

Welcome to Eckankar in Arizona!

Are you looking … for opportunities to share your spiritual experiences with others?

We invite you to share your spiritual explorations by joining us on Zoom, attending one of our local events, or by visiting our website.

Hope to see you soon!

EckankarArizona.org

To learn more about Eckankar, go to: www.EckankarArizona.org or call 877-300-4949 Copyright ©2024 All rights reserved. Presented by the Arizona Satsang Society, Inc., A Chartered Affiliate of ECKANKAR.

February 2025

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Singh Meadows Farmers Market 1490 E Weber Dr Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 8am-2pm Facebook.com/SinghFarms

Local Farmers Markets

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Sun City Farmers Market 16820 N 99th Ave Thursdays Oct-May 9am-1pm Facebook.com/Sun-City-Farmers-Market631299790224049

NOTE: Please check market websites and ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com for more information on days and hours, and any restrictions.

Ahwatukee Farmers Market 4700 E Warner Rd, Phoenix Sundays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 8am-11am Facebook.com/AhwatukeeFarmersMarket Carefree Farmers Market 1 Sundial Circle Fridays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 8am-11am Facebook.com/CarefreeFarmersMarket Downtown Chandler Farmers Market 3 S Arizona Ave Saturdays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 7am-10am DowntownChandler.org/events/farmers-market Downtown Mesa Farmers Market 1 E Main St Saturdays 8am-noon dtMesaFarmersMarket.com Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market 720 N 5th Street Saturdays Oct-May 8am-1pm May-Oct 7:30am-11:30am DowntownPhoenixFarmersMarket.org Gilbert Farmers Market 222 N Ash St Saturdays Oct-Apr 8am-noon May-Sep 7-11am GilbertMarket.com High Street Farmers Market 5415 E High St, Phoenix Sundays Oct-May 9am-1pm Facebook.com/Farmers-Market-on-HighStreet-2244771575799425

Mommas Organic Market Arrowhead Farmers Market 7780 W Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale Saturdays Oct-Apr 9am-1pm | May-Sep 8-11am Facebook.com/Getlocalazfarmersmarkets GetLocalArizonaEvents.com Mommas Organic Market Glendale Farmers Market at Cabela’s 9380 W Glendale Ave, Glendale Sundays Sep-May 10am-2pm | closed for summer Facebook.com/Getlocalazfarmersmarkets GetLocalArizonaEvents.com Ocotillo Farmers Market 2577 W Queen Creek Rd, Chandler Sundays Oct-May 9am-1pm ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com/ ocotillo-farmers-market

Uptown Farmers Market 5757 N Central Ave, Phoenix Wednesdays Oct-Apr 9am-1pm & May-Jun 8am-noon Saturdays Nov-Apr 8am-1pm & May-Oct 8am-noon UptownMarketAZ.com Verrado Community Farmers Market N Market Pl & W Main St, Buckeye Sundays Oct-Jun 9am-1pm Facebook.com/VerradoCommunityFarmersMarket

NORTHERN ARIZONA

Farmers Market in Old Town Square 1042 N Main St, Cottonwood Wednesdays 3-7pm (check months/times throughout year) Facebook.com/FarmersMarketatOldTownSquare Flagstaff Community Farmers Market 211 W Aspen Ave, City Hall Parking Lot Sundays May-Oct 9am-1pm FlagstaffMarket.com Prescott Farmers Market Dignity Health, YRMC 900 Iron Springs Rd, Miller Valley Lot Saturdays Nov-Mar 9:30am-12:30pm Apr-Oct 7:30am-noon PrescottFarmersMarket.org

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market 3806 N Brown Ave Saturdays Oct-Apr 8am-noon, May-Jun 7-10am Facebook.com/OldTownScottsdaleFarmersMarket

Sedona Community Farmers Market Wells Fargo Bank Parking Lot 2201 W State Rte 89A, West Sedona Sundays May-Oct 8am-noon Nov-Apr 11am-3pm Sedona-Farmers-Market.com

Power Road Farmers Market 4011 S Power Rd, Mesa Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm | Sunday 9am-4pm PowerrdFarmersMarket.com

Verde Valley Farmers Market Hollamon St and Main St, Camp Verde Saturdays May-Oct 8-11am Facebook.com/VerdeValleyFarmersMarket

Roadrunner Park Farmers Market 3502 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix Saturdays Oct-May 8am-noon | Jun-Sep 7-10am Facebook.com/RoadrunnerParkFarmersMarket

Windmill Park Farmers Market 9950 E Cornville Rd, Cornville Thursdays 2-6pm (check months/times throughout year) Facebook.com/WindmillParkFarmersMarket

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Business Directory Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Business Directory, email PhoenixAds@NaturalAZ.com to request our media kit.

Alternative Medicine LEADING EDGE WELLNESS

Chiropractors ALLY SPINE CENTER

MacKenzie Kalt, Owner/Director 4050 E Greenway Rd, Ste 5, Phoenix 480-594-5052 MyLeadingEdgeWellness.com

10565 N 114th St, Ste 109, Scottsdale 480-809-4700 asc.drc2000@gmail.com AllySpineCenter.com

Providing some of the most advanced natural technologies for those struggling with chronic pain, injuries, stress, migraine headaches, PTSD, i n s o m n i a , Ly m e d i s ea s e , autoimmune disorders, skin conditions, and much more.

Visit our website to learn more. See ad, inside front cover.

Dr. Chris Condon utilizes stateof-the-art techniques and technologies including non-surgical spinal decompression with the SpineMed and SUMMUS class 4 medical laser for the correction of degenerative spinal conditions including stenosis, herniated/bulging discs and neuropathy as well as knee decompression with the Knee On Trac.

NATURAL MEDICINE & DETOX

2701 N 7th St, Phoenix 602-307-0888 NaturalMedicineDetox.com

Dentists

We offer a wide range of services that can help just about everyone at affordable prices. We also accept insurance for acupuncture, including Medicare. Please take a look at our website to learn about our services, gifted practitioners, and insurance information and form to see if your plan covers acupuncture. See ad, page 19.

6930 E Chauncey Ln, Ste 100, Phoenix 602-775-5120 • MyNaturalDentist.com

Bookkeeping NAMASTE BOOKKEEPING

Jen & Mark Arnold 480-442-8208 JandM@NamasteBookkeeping.com You are passionate about the work you do! It’s not a job; it’s a mission, a calling, a ministry. And it lights you up!

There is nothing you would rather be doing. You make a difference! Let us help you so you can help the world!

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NATURAL DENTAL PARTNERS

The doctors at Natural Dental Partners take the time to listen to your concerns and use their extensive experience to help you achieve better health. Using the latest technology (such as low-dose 3D imaging, CEREC, lasers, PRF, ozone and treatment of sleep disorders), they believe in a team approach to help you achieve your healthcare goals. Check out MyNaturalDentist.com or ABreathOfHealth. com to see how they can help you. See ad, pages 3 and 14.

SHEA DENTAL

Dr. Josh Raiffe, DMD, AIAOMT 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 120, Scottsdale 480-998-3923 SheaDentalAZ.com Shea Dental offers holistic dentistry led by Dr. Josh Raiffe, DMD, AIAOMT Accredited. Using advanced technology like CEREC milling, digital impressions, Wand anesthesia, cone beam CT scanning, and SMART mercury filling removal, Dr. Raiffe ensures safe dental practices. Services include implants, veneers and sleep apnea treatments. Accepts most dental insurance. See ad, page 5.

Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona Edition

NaturalAZ.com

Energy Healing KIM CARTER, MA, HTCP

15215 S 48th St, Ste 154, Phoenix Kim@IntuitiveKim.com IntuitiveKim.com Kim is an Intuitive and Healing Touch Certified Practitioner offering guidance when you feel out of alignment with your authentic self. Stress, fear, anxiety and grief/loss throw us off balance, making it challenging to access inner wisdom. Sessions include reading and clearing your energy field; and simple, practical selfhealing tools to keep you balanced and grounded. See ad, page 15.

REALIGN YOUR LIFE WELLNESS CENTER

931 E Southern Ave, Ste 106, Mesa 480-306-7321 RealignYourLifeAZ.com Realign Your Life Wellness Center features the Harmonic Egg—sound and light therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual energy healing.

Other services include The Body Code, Life Force Energy with Sound, sound baths and Higher Guidance Life Coaching. See ad, page 19.

SACRED LIGHT OF COSMIC AWARENESS COMMUNITY

480-273-4577 SacredLight777@proton.me SacredLightCommunity.com

Reclaim your power.

Identify your soul purpose. Spiritual healing and self-realization workshops. Channeled messages from the Divine Creator. Free PastLife Readings. Develop psychic clarity, inner trust, strength and confidence; examine hidden unconscious patterns; and engage in personal power management, karmic healing, calming the mind and dream interpretation.

CLICK ON NaturalAZ.com

Functional Fitness

Schools

OSTEOSTRONG

SOUTHWEST INSTITUTE OF HEALING ARTS

8120 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale Text/call 602-932-2792 OsteoStrongScottsdale.com OsteoStrong is a leader in natural bone health and wellness with centers in Phoenix (Arcadia) and Scottsdale (McCormick Ranch).

Our members report significant improvements in osteoporosis, physical strength, balance and posture in 15 minutes a week. Specializing in osteogenesis without drugs, we’re dedicated to holistically enhancing quality of life. See ad, page 17.

Pest Control NORTHWEST EXTERMINATING

Organic Program Experts 623-516-2220 NWExterminating.com

We have organic alternatives available with multiple programs to meet your needs. Ask us about our year-round pest protection, SMART ecofriendly rodent control 24/7 home protection, and desert guard home sealing service. See ad, page 13.

Pet Care ANDREA BRIGGS, AKA “CRITTER DOC”

ASAM, Sh Reiki, HTAP Communicator, Healer, Counselor 602-317-1543 1CritterDoc@gmail.com SpiritAnimalWisdom.com

With a gentle healing touch, Andrea provides wellness counseling, energy healing, animal communication, and intuitive counsel for pets and their people.

1538 E Southern Ave, Tempe 480-994-9244 Info@swiha.edu • swiha.edu

Nationally accredited college offers holistic health and wellness degrees, diplomas, certificates of excellence, continuing education and personal development, oncampus and online. Financial aid available. See ad, outside back cover.

Editorial Calendar Three-Month Planner

Spiritual Centers DIMENSIONS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH

11108 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Ste E16 Scottsdale 732-832-1036 DimensionsOfHeavenAndEarth.com Dimensions of Heaven and Earth is Scottsdale’s exciting, new one-stop Spiritual Experience: a center of healing and insight combined with a store full of unique gifts from local artisans. With training and tools for your personal development, we are excited to help you take your spiritual journey to new levels! See ad, page 9.

Food & Nutrition March

ECKANKAR

The Path of Spiritual Freedom 1-877-300-4949 • EckankarArizona.org Eckankar.org • HearHU.org Facebook.com/EckankarArizona E c ka n ka r i s a n a c t i ve , individual, creative spiritual practice. A companion and roadmap for your journey home—to the heights of Self-Discovery and GodDiscover y, and beyond.

Come along and discover the most secret part of yourself. The key to spiritual freedom lies within you. Explore life as a Soul Adventure. See ad, page 27.

VISIT US ONLINE @ NaturalAZ.com ONLINE EXCLUSIVE RECIPES

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CHOCOLATE CHERRY VINAIGRETTE

People, Planet & Purpose April

Women's Wellness May

CHOCOLATE-BRAISED SHORT RIBS MIGHTY MUSHROOM CACAO BITES February 2025

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