Natural Nutmeg July 2023

• Design a life with more peace and joy

• Harness your innate power to heal yourself

• Minimize the pain and daily stress you now embrace as normal

• Create a new prosperity mindset

• Make your well-being a priority over pleasing others

• Develop healthier, more loving relationships

• Connect with Spirit, your higher self, and your life’s purpose

Hey, I’m Dr. Diane!

Summer!

My favorite time of year. I just love everything about it—warmer weather, bright sunshine, fresh fruits and veggies, farm-to-table dinners, outdoor concerts, festivals, and time spent on the beach or at a lake. And this year, I’m excited about our first-ever issue dedicated exclusively to Energy Medicine and Healing.

If you read our May/June issue, you know I attended the Dr. Joe Dispenza Week-Long Advanced Retreat in April. I am still flying high from the energy! I was planning on dedicating our July/Aug/Sept issue to Energy Medicine all along, but I am even more excited about this issue now.

I have always been a big believer in the ability to heal your body with your mind—but after my experience at this retreat, there is not a shred of doubt in my opinion. Not only did I see people get out of wheelchairs and walk with my own eyes, but there was extensive research on the healing effects of meditation and energy medicine presented by Dr. Hemal Patel, MD/PhD from UC San Diego.

They showed us study after study examining meditators at these retreats where their blood plasma shut down cancer cell metabolism, where tumors were eliminated on follow-up scans, where autoimmune markers for MS and ALS disappeared, and where cells had literally been changed in a seven-day period and diseases ceased to exist—even in people who had a particular disease for most of their life!

The power of our mind to heal our body is knowledge I believe we all innately have but sadly, it has been forgotten. And quite honestly, most of us were never taught how to access and apply this ability. I am more committed than ever to teaching this information and to continue to provide the platform for our Energy Healers to educate our communities on all their unique healing modalities!

Also, don’t forget that our annual reader-nominated 10Best Awards are here! They have been a huge hit, with thousands of readers voting last year! As a Natural Nutmeg reader, you will have the opportunity to nominate your favorite holistic practitioner or business in 18 categories listed on the full-page ad on page 47. Nominations will take place between July 1–September 1 through an online survey tool at https://bit.ly/NN10Best2023. Winners will be announced in late September. We will be showcasing the 10BEST in each category in a special additional issue released in December 2023.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Publisher & Owner, ELM Publishing

it

“ The power of our mind to heal our body is knowledge I believe we all innately have but sadly, it has been forgotten.”

—Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD

Our mission is to provide valuable insight, information, and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

PUBLISHER/OWNER

Dr. Diane Hayden, PhD Diane@naturalnutmeg.com

DIR. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/OWNER

Christopher Urso

Curso@naturalnutmeg.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Hubbard lori@naturalnutmeg.com

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Ashley Frament layout@naturalnutmeg.com

ADVISORY BOARD

Frank Aieta, ND

Adam Breiner, ND

Mark Breiner, DDS

Deanna M. Cherrone, MD

Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N.

Steven R. Frank

DISTRIBUTION

Greater Hartford and surrounding counties, please contact Natural Nutmeg.

FFC—Tom Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC

In keeping with our concern for the environment, Essential Naples is proudly printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.

Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut. Please call for a location near you. (860) 508-0894 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com.

© 2007—23 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved. Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, with permission. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your feedback.

12th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2023

with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner

Saturday, September 9, at Harbor Point, Stamford, CT GO * GATHER * GROW

The 12th Annual Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2023, with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner, returns Saturday, September 9, 10 am to 6 pm, to Harbor Point, Stamford’s beautiful waterfront community. This is Connecticut’s largest and premier health and wellness expo, featuring 120 exhibitors, eight zones, free health screenings by Stamford Health, free flu shots by ShopRite, and other screenings and activities by our sponsors and exhibitors. Free group classes along the stunning Harbor Point boardwalk. Parking and admission are free.

The theme again this year is GO. GATHER. GROW.

GO to the expo; GATHER to experience the best in health, wellness, and fitness; and GROW our mind, body, and spirit.

This ONE-DAY family and pet-friendly extravaganza is packed with an exciting variety of exhibitors showcasing health and wellness products and services. The eight zones of the expo are:

• Pet Wellness Zone sponsored by Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel

• Yoga and stretching

• Group fitness zone

• Healthy food trucks

• Healthy food, beverages, and restaurants

• Eco-friendly wine, spirits, and craft beers

• Kids Zone sponsored by Au Pair in America

• The all-new Pickleball America Zone

For the most up-to-date list of sponsors, exhibitors, and activities, visit: WWW.HWL-EXPOS.COM, Instagram @HWLEXPO, and FACEBOOK.COM/ HWLEXPO

Thank you to our sponsors!

Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner for the 12th consecutive year

Grade A ShopRite, Support Sponsor for the 12th consecutive year

Camp Bow Wow Stamford, Cassena Care at Stamford and Norwalk, KeyBank, Life Time Stamford, Pickleball America, Toyota of Stamford, Support Sponsors. Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel, Pet Wellness

Zone Sponsor

Au Pair in America, Kids Zone Sponsor

Premier Media Sponsors: Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media, and Natural Awakenings Magazine

Media Sponsors: CT Kids and Family, Fairfield County Mom, HeyStamford!, Jen Danzi, Kids Out And About, Macaroni Kid, Natural Nutmeg Magazine, News 12 CT, Stamford Advocate/Greenwich Time/ Hearst Media, Stamford Moms, and WEBE 108

Community Partners: City of Stamford, City Carting, and Stamford Chamber of Commerce

The Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo is created and produced by TMK Event Marketing, based in Greenwich, CT. For more information about the HWL Expo 2023, exhibitor, and sponsorship opportunities, please contact TMK Event Marketing at 203.531.3047 or email tamara@tmkeventmarketing.com.

To register online, visit www.hwl-expos.com/cart. See ad on page 8 >

Keep Your Qi Moving Free at Wholeness Acupuncture Center in Farmington

Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese concept of Qi, which refers to the flow of energy throughout the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi flows through the body’s meridians, or energy channels. When this flow of Qi is disrupted, it can cause illness or pain. Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s healing response and restores the natural balance by inserting fine needles into the skin to tap into the channels of energy. Acupuncture needles are placed in very specific locations along those meridians. These energy channels align with fascia and connective tissue lines, as well as nervous system pathways. The acupuncture points along these channels are physiologically unique. They don’t look the same as the rest of the tissue around the point. Acupuncture points are areas where fibers are bundled more closely together. They are highly active.

The aim of acupuncture is to treat the person as a whole and recover the equilibrium between their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

From a scientific perspective, acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the nervous system and release natural painkillers, such as endorphins, in the body. It may also help to increase blood flow and reduce stress and inflammation.

Overall, acupuncture is believed to work on multiple levels, improving the body’s energetic balance and promoting natural healing processes. During therapy, patients commonly experience heaviness in the limbs or a pleasant feeling of relaxation.

Guljan Nurmuradova is a nationally certified, licensed Acupuncture practitioner in the state of Connecticut. Her focus is on providing her patients with thorough, individualized, and comprehensive care, treating a variety of specific conditions and symptoms. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a strong focus on the prevention of illnesses and is beneficial in the maintenance of good health despite the many demands and challenges of a busy lifestyle. Visit wholenessacupuncturecenter. com to learn more.

Healing Energy Through Practicing Sun Do

Energy is within us and around us all the time.

Chi is the vital energy or life force within us and connects us to all forms of life. Chi is a dynamic force within…it moves up and down, in and out. The components of Chi are yin and yang energies. Though often considered opposites, harmony and balance of these energies are essential for good mental, physical, and spiritual health. The internal martial art of Sun Do activates, builds, and circulates energy/Chi to provide health and vitality.

Chi has many functions within the body. Movement, digestion, nutrient absorption and use, increasing immunity, and the shifting of emotional and mental states are critical roles of active and well-balanced Chi. We have whole body Chi and organ Chi, as each organ has its own energy flow.

Pathologies leading to disease and dysfunction thrive on imbalance. The two major pathways to dysfunction are deficiencies and stagnation of Chi through the meridians or energy channels. Both pathways are a result of disharmony, and thus, lethargy, exhaustion, or specific physical ailments can occur.

Sun Do can reverse these pathways of disease and dysfunction through breath, postures, and movements that restore the flow of Chi. Energy channels are opened. The body, mind, and spirit can function at their highest level. This transformation is called internal alchemy.

DJ Horn, LPC, PT, CST, is owner and therapist at Integrated Physical Therapy and Counseling. She is also part owner of Sun Do Wellness in West Hartford, CT. For more information, visit sundowellness.com. See ad on page 15 >

Holy Cow!

I just finished a session with Jacqueline Kane & my mind is blown! This is such powerful healing that everything has shifted for me. I can’t recommend Jacqueline enough.

- Lisa Roche

Swan

Pain

is a warning sign that something needs to be resolved.

Constant low back means your sacral chakra is not in balance.

An imbalanced sacral chakra is the result of suppressed emotions, feelings and desires. It can also mean you may have had sexual trauma and resist intimacy.

Featured Practitioner: Maura Aaberg

Maura Aaberg, nurse practitioner, specializes in:

• hormone concerns

• mind/mood issues

• thyroid issues

• fertility and gynecological care.

Improve Your Health and Sex Drive with FemiWave!

Women, this is a mustread! You do not want to miss this article!

Men, you want to read this too! Men have been receiving ESWT (Shock-Wave Therapy) in CT for at least 5 years. Men in CT have been improving stamina and overall sexual wellness. It is now time for the special woman in your life.

Menopause: The natural stage when a woman has not had her menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. With menopause, the body stops releasing eggs and reduces estrogen production. Low levels can have a significant impact on your sex drive.

The significant body transformation is often forgotten among all the joys of motherhood. During post-partum, it’s common for your estrogen levels to dip, stretch marks to appear, and belly fat to increase.

There are now options for new mothers. Imagine experiencing the joys of motherhood while restoring your intimate health. With FemiWave, you can reduce the lasting effects on your sexual health post-childbirth.

The good news, there is now a clinically proven and non-invasive procedure, ESWT (usually used for pain and scar tissue damage). The device can be used to increase blood flow to the vagina, resulting in increased sensitivity, helps with urinary incontinence, and heightens sex drive by increasing natural lubrication.

The in-office procedure takes about 15 minutes. Within 24 hours, you can experience the benefits of the process!

• SALE: We have a special 2023 promotion!

• SAVE $200! Now thru December 2023. You just have to mention Natural Nutmeg magazine!

Each package includes naturopathic counseling, acupuncture/ESWT pressure points with each acoustic wave treatment, and two colon hydrotherapy sessions at no additional cost. We know your best health is achieved when combining modalities and addressing the root cause—no “band-aid” solutions at VPGWaves. Learn more at femiwave.com and vpgwaves.com. Free consultations are always available! Call us now to schedule your appt at 860.800.6775.

CT’s Top Energy Healers E

nergy healers believe your body is instilled with a subtle energy or life force, the flow of which must be balanced for good health. Energy healing activates the body’s subtle energy systems to remove blocks. By breaking through these energetic blocks, the body’s inherent ability to heal itself is stimulated. Energy healers help people with a wide range of health issues, from anxiety to chronic pain to side effects from cancer, and also with a variety of mental health problems.

Jenny Alzate,LPC, CertifiedMental Health

Integrative Medicine Provider

I’m Jenny Alzate, co-founder and director of Enlightenment Counseling Center and a licensed psychotherapist for over 15 years. I am passionate about the work I do with young adults, women, and mothers as I continue to witness healing and human beings reclaiming their power and their lives. I believe we can heal from mental illness. Although the secondary impacts of trauma may have permanent effects on our health, the inner child can heal, and the symptoms can change in intensity, frequency, and duration.

Stress and lifestyle play a huge part in truly healing. I believe in natural medicine and in collaboration, and I offer a lens of spirituality, compassion, decades of clinical experience, an energy perspective, and consciousness.

My clinical focus is to heal the original trauma wound that most likely happened during the formative childhood years. Ultimately the goal is for my client to learn how to reparent their inner child. I create a space of peace, consciousness, respect, and grounding, supported by imagery, meditation, body work, breathwork, energy medicine, and plant medicine so that the healing occurs safely and at the right time.

Understanding trauma from a holistic lens allows me to focus on mind, body, emotional body, and spirit, which guides me to treat the whole self. I can then bring my integrative clinical approach and the knowledge and training in CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) toolbox to assist with healing. Trauma-focused cognitive and internal family systems therapies help change the mental script that developed from the traumatic experience. We focus on rewiring the neural connections and helping the central nervous system reset.

Specializing in trauma, I understand that talk therapy is just one modality in psychotherapy. I focus on connecting with their bodies so they may guide to their emotions and/or memories safely and at a slow pace.

I have been in the mental health field for over 24 years. I have worked in many clinical settings and with every age group, so I come to my sessions equipped with presence, knowledge, clinical experience, and intuitive guidance. I make a difference for my clients, no matter the history of their symptoms or how much therapy they’ve received before our work together.

As I reflect on the last 15 years of being a licensed psychotherapist, I feel that the sky is the limit. I have a vision of starting my wellness center and teaching courses on mind-body medicine as well as teaching meditation and law of attraction classes. I do not feel pressured to do anything now, as I am enjoying the fruits of all my hard work up to this point. It’s very important to me to practice what I preach.

Jenny Alzate, LPC, CMHIMP 860.729.6138• jenny.alzate@gmail.com • Jennyalzate.com

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Susana Padilla, Certified

Hypnotherapist, Hypnosis Haven

Hypnosis Haven, located in New Milford, CT, has been helping clients around the globe since 2016. Using therapeutic imagery with hypnosis creates an internal mindscape for hypnotherapy to take place, and clients benefit from certified hypnotherapist Susana Padilla’s mastery.

She has been helping clients in the “usual” realms of hypnosis, such as overcoming anxiety or traumas, weight management, smoking cessation, and fears, but for the past few years, she has been helping increasing numbers of clients who have survived strokes or traumatic brain injuries.

“The reason I decided to study Hypnosis for Stroke Survivors was because my younger brother suffered a severe stroke in 2020. I saw firsthand not only how many aspects of life are changed but how advantageous it could be to add hypnosis to the recovery plan. Hypnosis is all about neuroplasticity and finding new ways to make new connections in the mind/brain to help the body!

“I dove right in and began seeing clients that hadn’t walked in years, clients suffering from aphasia, pusher syndrome, and many other challenges that come from surviving a stroke. Online and in-person sessions have helped clients recover their abilities and get out of their depression or mental plateaus of physical therapy.

“The benefits clients come to experience by the seventh hour of hypnosis are lifelong, and given that they have their recordings to keep, the progress is continually reinforced.”

Available for evening and weekend sessions, online and in person.

Susana Padilla, Certified Hypnotherapist, Hypnosis Haven • New Milford, CT Hypnosis-Haven.com

Accepting new patients in the

Marcel and Erin Touponse, The Blackbird House Healing Center, Blackbird

Hypnosis

Blackbird Hypnosis offers a wide range of services to assist you to Become Aligned with Your Mind.

Marcel and Erin Touponse, owners of The Blackbird House Healing Center and Gift Shop in Old Wethersfield, provide hypnosis sessions to help alleviate anxiety and assist with habit control, weight loss, goal empowerment, and intuitive development.

Marcel Touponse obtained his certification from the Hypnosis Motivation Institute (HMI). The sole focus of Marcel’s Hypnotherapy Sessions is to put people in the best position to achieve their goals. He works with a wide variety of concerns, including weight loss/nutrition, smoking/vaping cessation, sleeping, internet/phone compulsion, academic performance, and professional advancement. His approach is to ensure you begin your journey with the full power of your subconscious mind available, as well as a personally tailored toolbox for use when you’re not in session.

Erin Touponse is certified through the National Guild of Hypnotists. She is a student of shamanic studies, and her sessions are journeys into the subconscious to gain clarity, release past traumas, and deepen the intuitive connection. In addition to soul-level regressive sessions, Erin offers past-life regression, allowing you to see a different perspective on your current life situation and gain the wisdom that only past life experiences can offer.

Marcel and Erin work at The Blackbird House and offer convenient and affordable appointments. Become Aligned with Your Mind and open up the potential that lies within you. Visit BlackbirdHypnosis.com for more information today.

Marcel and Erin Touponse

The Blackbird House Healing Center and Gi Shop

147 Main St., Wethersfield, CT BlackbirdHypnosis.com • theblackbirdhouse.com

860.416.3177 • blackbirdhypnosis@gmail.com

Kevin Ferry, Certified Tai Chi and WHM Instructor, Personal Injury Attorney

During my decades-long career as a trial lawyer, I have worked with thousands of injury victims, over a dozen wrongful death cases, too many “sexual abuse of a minor” cases to count, and now a rash of cases involving abuse and neglect of young people with autism living in group settings. The amount of human suffering that attorneys, doctors, therapists, and many others face can be overwhelming if there is no way to filter it through the body, mind, and spirit. The build-up of this toxic load took a huge toll on me. Being attached to every argument and the outcome of every case was an enormous expenditure of energy. This is ultimately what brought me to where I am today. Many wise teachers have said that the only true gift you can give to the world is to become more peaceful in your interactions with all beings. That has been my constant calling since I realized that lawyer “fighting” is counterproductive and harmful to achieving justice for injury victims and was costing me my health and contentment.

For ten years, I have studied Tai Chi with Dr. Ming Wu and traveled to China with him to deepen my practice in its origin culture. I started attending workshops at the Omega Institute after a friend suggested we visit the bookstore there. Soon I was delving deep into Bhakti Yoga and have been to festivals on both coasts. Bhakti led me to study Buddhism, and I attended a weekend retreat with Monks and Nuns living in Thich Nhat Hanh’s New York Monastery, Blue Spirit.

In 2018, the Ice Man was calling. I had heard of Wim Hof but finally decided to learn more about him and attended a full-day workshop in Brooklyn, NY. In 2020, Dr. Wu awarded me with a Tai Chi Instructor’s certificate. That same year I traveled to Poland for Wim Hof Method Instructor training and obtained a WHM instructor’s certificate.

Today, Ferry Law is helping the catastrophically injured obtain maximum justice with minimum stress. With my vastly improved listening and companioning skills, I’m able to be present for clients. The years of work on myself to find peace is something I feel compelled to share.

For three years, we have offered our clients yoga, breath work, and Tai Chi and have created a serene space, both inside and outside our law office, to bring our clients in touch with the present moment. Organic herb, flower, and vegetable gardens, along with two Little Free Libraries in our front yard, bring joy to the New Britain community as well as the Ferry Law team and staff.

I teach Tai Chi and Wim Hof Method workshops, where participants are led through a transformative breath work session and ice bath while having fun with other amazing humans learning to tap into their physiology for health, happiness, and strength. I also collaborate with my partner and yoga teacher, Leslie Winter Gordon, ERYT-500, in weekend retreats in Mystic, CT.

Leslie Gordon, E-RYT 500, Yoga Instructor and Practitioner, Leslie Gordon Yoga

I’mLeslie Gordon, a yoga practitioner who has taught yoga for over 20 years. In 2020, I began teaching solely on Zoom. I’m excited to bring yoga to every body and love to help people—especially those who think yoga could never work for them. My approach is practical, spirit-filled, and heart-centered.

Though I didn’t realize it early on, yoga has been looking for me for a long time. Because my parents were morticians, death was part of daily life, and I began questioning everything to find some meaning.

When my boys were born, my career in the museum field ground to a halt, and I craved the company of adults to free me from big wheels, Tonka trucks, and the daily stresses of caring for two young, active boys. It led me to a little yoga center near my home, and from there, my path took an exciting turn. I discovered that yoga helped me find my breath, my center, and some peace and quiet, and it made me feel great! After several years of learning, the opportunity presented itself to study more deeply. I enrolled in teacher training with Integrative Yoga Therapy (iytyogatherapy.com), and it was there and through subsequent workshops and training that I discovered my passion for helping every body access yoga. My classes and style of teaching put yoga into the hands (and bodies) of everyone.

Because of the pandemic, my 20-year yoga career shifted, and I began teaching yoga solely on Zoom. I realized many people were more comfortable taking Zoom classes, not only for safety’s sake but also for the convenience of not having to take the extra travel time to and from the studio. It also became very clear that not everyone is comfortable in a yoga studio.

I have remained on Zoom even though many places have reopened, and life is starting to feel more normal again. Because of my experience before the pandemic, the shift to Zoom has been comfortable for me, fairly seamless for the folks who attend my classes, and has allowed me to expand my community beyond the limits of the Farmington Valley.

I would love to have you join our loving community! I can be contacted at lesliewintergordon@gmail.com if you would like information on how to join our thriving Zoom family.

Justin Speller, Intuitive Energy Work, Tap Into the Light

Growing up in a family of doctors, I learned to see the world through a scientific lens. I focused on what works, what can be tested, what is proven to help make life better. I loved the idea that a treatment could be objectively proven to work beyond the shadow of a doubt. When I changed my career direction and started focusing on the subtle human energy fields, I brought this same scientifically oriented approach to my endeavors. Energy-based techniques drew me in because they simply worked so well. I experienced healing on emotional and physical levels that I had never before thought was possible.

Energy work directly shifts the blueprint that creates the mind and the body. Change your energies, and you will change your life.

There are nine major human energy systems, and they all exist in a much less dense state than the physical body. These malleable human energies respond beautifully to focused thought, intention, and visualization. We can use our minds to resolve issues in our own blueprints for health and create new healthier versions of ourselves.

Many years ago, as a teenager, I developed a swallowing disorder. Certain foods tended to get stuck in my esophagus on the way down. Unable to swallow and in severe pain, I would run to the restroom to regurgitate, often in the middle of the meal. I felt intense embarrassment and humiliation.

Eventually, my parents brought me to the doctor, who performed an endoscopy to check for any physical blocks in my esophagus; fortunately, none were found. The doctor prescribed once daily Prilosec, which thankfully resolved the issue. It was only years later that I began to hear about the long-term side effects of taking this medication and became determined to try to get off it.

By this time, I had learned about the human energy fields and their impact on physical functioning. I searched for my answer, knowing there must be a number of blocks, misalignments, or imbalances somewhere in my subtle energy fields that were disturbing the blueprint creating my digestive tract. I knew if I could find and resolve them, my swallowing problem would disappear.

This healing was a process. It took me some time to find and heal all the energetic root causes for my swallowing issue. I believed and persevered, and with each block found and released, my swallowing issue improved.

First, I was able to switch to a less intense medicine. Then, with more improvement of my energies, I successfully switched to a homeopathic remedy. Finally, I shifted enough in my energy systems to heal my swallowing issue completely and get off all medication.

Changing my energies changed my life.

Justin Speller, Intuitive Energy Work Tap Into the Light • Wethersfield, CT tapintothelight@gmail.com • 617.435.7798 • tapintothelight.com

Leslie Gordon, E-RYT 500 • Yoga Instructor and Practitioner • Leslie Gordon Yoga lesliewintergordon@gmail.com https://lesliegordonyoga.com/

Joyce St. Germaine, The Sacred Journey, Healing Practices

generated through sound via voice or instruments, color, stones, crystals, visualization, prayer, or intention, all healing happens energetically. When a request is made or a thought arises to offer healing energies to any person, animal, place, or group, energy is at work. Thoughts are a form of energy that the healer has received and now begins the practice of setting an intention to connect to the being, place, or group to offer channeled healing energies. This is always done with respect to the free will of all, not dictating how healing will happen and not attaching to the outcome of the work. Whether the energy is sent remotely or through hands-on modalities, it is offered without condition, as a gift of love the recipients may use as they wish for their greatest good.

It is helpful to consider the role empathy plays in energy healing. In over 40 years of energy work, I have come to realize that empathy on its own isn’t such a useful tool. Empathy should be used in small doses, just enough for the healer to gather necessary information. Empathy in too large a dose has the potential to duplicate suffering rather than offer healing. Used appropriately, it reminds us that we are all connected—its ultimate gift.

At The Sacred Journey in Burlington, CT, I offer Shamanic Journeying and Energy Practices, Sound Healing, Crystal and Stone Healing, Past Life Regression, Soul Retrieval, Extraction, Spirit Detachment, Yoga, and Hypnotherapy. I also lead monthly study groups, children’s events, and Shamanism and Yoga Retreats in Costa Rica, Belize, Sedona, Santa Fe, and Taos.

True healing happens when the energy healer, through compassion, transforms the energy of awareness into selfless service. Compassionate, selfless service is the highest honor bestowed upon any energy healer. It is a pure, heart-centered practice.

Eilis Philpott, Master Healer andTeacher, Soul Healing Journey, LLC

My greatest wish for all my clients is that they truly know what it feels like to be loved unconditionally. No matter where you are, where you’ve been, or where you’re going, you deserve to know and love every aspect of yourself. Understanding this deeply is the key to achieving your soul mission here on the planet.

WhetherFundamentally, we all want to feel loved, and many of us have not experienced true unconditional love. Every class, training, and modality I teach is grounded in love and achieving a genuine acceptance of who we are and where we are at any given moment. All sessions are dictated by the needs of the client on that day, and every session is thus individualized to each person’s needs. I have been practicing for more than 20 years, and in that time, I have seen individuals change their careers, work through major trauma and abuse, and improve their current relationships or create new ones.

My personal and healing journey has brought me geographically from Ireland and England, then to the U.S., where I have been for the past 30 years. My academic background is rooted in science; I hold a bachelor’s degree in science, received a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Master’s degree equivalent), and I have an honorary doctorate in Divinity. After stints in the educational world and the corporate arena, I finally found my calling in the healing arts.

For over 20 years, I have been a master healer and teacher certified in numerous modalities. I began with rebirthing breathwork, then became a Reiki Master (Usui and Angelic Reiki), and continued to explore and teach high-vibration energy healing techniques. I am one of only two teachers approved to teach 13th Octave LaHoChi in the United States, a responsibility and honor I take seriously.

Sharing the power of this quantum healing modality is currently a core focus of my practice. I hold multiple 13th Octave LaHoChi training each year in states across the country. This year I offered the first international in-person workshop in Ireland. The next 13th Octave LaHoChi training workshop will be in Virginia in August, with one to follow in the Northeast in early December.

Presently I offer soul-level healing of various types, clearing blocks, obstacles, and challenges preventing individuals from living life to its fullest potential. I especially focus these days on customized training programs that support and elevate other healers. Modalities I currently offer in addition to 13th Octave LaHoChi include Akashic Field Healing and Training, Soul Language and Way of the Warrior training, Quantum Healing Hypnosis (QHH), and Rebirthing Breathwork. The next in-person Rebirthing Breathwork workshop is scheduled for September in Newtown, CT.

Though I have already trained in many healing modalities, my education is ongoing. This allows me to offer original bespoke sessions and programs that evolve and integrate everything I have learned as appropriate to the needs of the individual or group I’m working with. The work we do together at Soul Healing Journey supports the internal energetic shifts needed to live a life of peace, harmony, and joy, as well as supporting the achievement of the individual’s soul mission on the planet.

The ABCs of Surviving Survival Mode for Autism Parents

Asa single mother of a teenager with autism, OCD, and anxiety, I understand what it is like to live in survival mode. Some days/weeks/ months can feel like a constant struggle to get through the never-ending challenges of parenting a child with special needs. From sleepless nights to meltdowns to medication changes, it can be overwhelming, to say the least. But there are ways you can bring some ease to survival mode and take care of yourself in the process.

Here are the ABCs of surviving survival mode.

A llow It to Be Messy

When I’m in survival mode, my living space is the first thing to go. The laundry piles up, the dishes are stacked to the ceiling, and the cats are feeding themselves out of their bag of food in the closet. It’s fine.

Give yourself permission to let it be messy without judging yourself for it. Maybe your kitchen looks like a war zone, maybe you forgot your best friend’s birthday, maybe your dog is taking herself for walks—it’s OK. Remind yourself that it’s more important to lessen your load than to live up to some perfectionist fantasy about what your life should look like.

B asics Only

When you’re in survival mode, it’s important to prioritize the basics. That means if something can wait, let it. Unless it’s medically necessary, anything that can be canceled, rescheduled, or delegated should be. Instead, focus on getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating healthy foods. Taking care of your basic needs will help you better manage your stress and increase your capacity to support yourself and your child.

Commit to Your Essentials

Self-care is usually the first thing to go (if it was even there in the first place) when we are in survival mode.

Ask me how I know! During my son’s inpatient hospitalization, I looked and acted like a complete zombie. I did not eat well, I did not sleep, and I spent my days and nights in fight-or-flight mode, fueled by caffeine, sugary snacks, and worry.

In fact, as special needs parents, it’s very easy to dismiss self-care because so many of us believe we don’t really matter. We believe that our kids matter, their needs matter, and we can wait. Well, that is not the case. First, we do matter. (Crazy, right?) Second—even if you are not buying that you do matter—our wellness is critical to our children’s wellness.

Whether you do it because you believe you matter or because you want to maximize your ability to care for your child, making time for yourself while you are in survival mode is essential.

You can do this by selecting three things you will make time for every day, no matter what. These are your essentials. Maybe it’s taking a hot shower, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness. Whatever they are, make them a priority and commit to doing it every day.

Remember Your ABCs

Survival mode is a challenging place to be, but it’s not impossible to navigate. Remember to allow things to be messy, prioritize the basics, commit to your essentials, and give yourself grace. Above all, remember you are doing your best, and your best is always good enough.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, commit to having your own back. Being a mom of a child with autism can be incredibly challenging, and it’s easy to second-guess yourself or feel like you’re not doing enough. But it’s important to give yourself grace and remember that you’re doing the best you can with the resources you have.

The Autism Mom Coach is a 1:1 coaching program founded by Lisa Candera, a certified life coach, podcaster, lawyer, and full-time single mother to a teenager with autism. Lisa also hosts a podcast, The Autism Mom Coach, where she shares practical, actionable tips to support parents raising a child with autism. Lisa is currently accepting applications for 1:1 clients. To learn more about my 1:1 coaching program, visit my website and schedule a free consultation: theautismmomcoach.com. See ad on page 29 >

“Whether you do it because you believe you matter or because you want to maximize your ability to care for your child, making time for yourself while you are in survival mode is essential.”

—Lisa Candera

By Lisa Candera

The Energetic Aspects of Treating TickBorne Diseases

By Dr. Marisa Houser, ND, LAc

Lyme disease presents with many symptoms and can affect many bodily systems. Using the energetics of acupuncture, herbs/food, and the body’s Qi, we can successfully treat tick-borne diseases (TBDs), or Gu syndrome (gu zheng).

Acupuncture: History and Efficacy

Acupuncture originated in China over 3000 years ago, making it the world’s oldest and most commonly used medical procedure. It is based on the theory of Qi, or the movement of energy in the body. Fine, sterile needles are inserted into the body to achieve the desired physiological response. Qi travels along the meridians or channels in the body. Disharmony within the body affects the movement of Qi and leads to disease.

There are twelve main meridians with tributaries and eight extraordinary meridians that course throughout. These meridians and their tributaries are accessible at different depths and, therefore, can affect the body at the cutaneous (surface) level and deep into the organs they are named after. Each meridian has points along it that function in particular ways. These points activate the peripheral nerves, transferring input signals to the brain and spinal cord through neural pathways.

Although the immediate effects are related to the nervous system, chemical signals like cytokines, hormones, and the like are also initiated to correct imbalances. Acupuncture increases blood flow to targeted areas to improve tissue oxygenation and aid in the circulation of the anti-inflammatory secretions it promotes. Acupuncture also increases the body’s internal production of endorphins (natural painkillers). These processes activate many more signals through the network to positively impact mood, immune response, and so on.

TBDs/Gu Syndrome

Gu syndrome dates back to the 7th century and refers to parasitic, fungal, and stealth pathogenic infections. According to the ancient Confucius Chinese text, Yijing, or Book of Changes, “movement means life and health and stagnation means

death and disease.” Gu syndrome is a yin pathogen characterized as a chronic state of stagnation that has affected the entire body.

According to Heiner Fruehauf, the modern interpretation of Gu syndrome is an “aggressive helminthic, protozoan, fungal, spirochete or viral affliction(s) that has become systemic in an immune-compromised patient.” The classic texts list symptoms such as digestive upset, neuromuscular, and mental symptoms. Constitutional signs of Qi damage, such as dark under-eye circles, floating and big pulse or choppy pulse, distended sublingual veins, rooted damp tongue coat, and red tip or red dots that cluster on the front third of the tongue are also seen.

Treating Gu

To treat, we must first consider the state of the patients’ Yuan Qi (original Qi) and the stage of infection. Those who recently contracted Gu syndrome may still have strong Yuan Qi. Expelling wind and releasing the exterior will be paramount here. Therapeutic lifestyle changes such as stress reduction, rest, detoxification support, a nutrient-dense diet, and correcting underlying deficiencies will also be necessary.

Qugu Ranxi Lu’s 1983 “Master Ranxi’s Treatise on Expelling Gu Toxins” and Fruehauf suggest stimulation of all or some of the 13 ghost points with the burning of moxa on garlic slivers and frequent acupressure with menthol preparations.

Foods and Herbs to Restore Health and Balance

Just as acupuncture is used to restore balance or address specific health conditions like tick-borne diseases, diet can, too. Energetics of foods refers to the qualities and characteristics of foods/herbs that affect the human body when consumed or applied.

In TCM, all foods and herbs are classified according to their energy into two major classifications: temperature (hot, warm, neutral, cool, cold) and flavor (spicy, sweet, sour, bitter, salty). The energetic properties of the foods influence specific

“According to the ancient Confucius Chinese text, Yijing, or Book of Changes, ‘movement means life and health and stagnation means death and disease.’”

—Dr. Marisa Houser, ND, LAc

Foods to avoid during and after treatment

Chicken Snails

Duck Insects of all kinds

Fish Alcohol

Shrimp Refined carbs

All forms of sugar, honey, jujube dates, and other sweet substances

Foods to consume in increased amounts when treating TBDs

Organic tofuOranges

Celery Tangerines

Cabbage Plums

Spinach Grapefruit

Lotus rootWatermelon

PeppermintPomegranates

Garlic Green tea

HorseradishVinegar

Ginger Lamb

Bitter melon Pork

Longan Rice

Lychee Quinoa

Woods ear mushrooms

organs and meridians throughout the body. These properties determine how the herb interacts with the body’s energy and can be used to restore balance or address respective health conditions.

When treating Gu syndrome, you should avoid hot, warm, sour, and sweet foods. Increase intake of neutral, cooling, bitter, and some spicy foods, as these foods will clear heat and toxins while nourishing yin.

Using your Qi as a practitioner, along with balancing the Qi of the patient through acupuncture, food, and a combination of herbs, you can relieve your patient’s symptoms and begin the healing process.

Dr. Marisa Houser, ND, LAc, practices at Tao Vitality in Hebron, CT. At Tao, Dr. Houser specializes in treating Tick-Borne Diseases (TBDs) and teaches her patients the importance of prevention, first aid and all the treatment options available to patients suffering from TBDs. Although she specializes in TBDs, she treats many other conditions ranging from gastrointestinal issues to hormonal imbalances. Dr. Houser utilizes a holistic approach and a wide range of therapies to help her patients achieve whole-body health. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children, two dogs, exploring nature and camping. Tao Vitality, 27 Main St, Hebron CT, 860.228.1287. www.taovitality.com

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Do

“This has been a fantastic experience. I have learned so much about myself, about the Health Coaching profession, and how our everyday behaviors can influence our overall health and well-being.”

– NS, nurse participant, 2023

5 Tips for Better Sleep to Boost Your Productivity

By Dr. Nicole Aviles, ND

While a clean diet and regular exercise are often emphasized as pillars of health, achieving adequate and restful sleep is also critical to living a healthy life. Approximately one-third of our time should be spent in slumber. It is a basic physiological need that has been fundamentally conserved across species; several theories have been proposed to explain the evolutionary benefit of sleep:

1. The inactivity theory says that creatures inactive at night were less likely to die from predation.

2. The energy conservation theory states that sleep functions to preserve energy when hunting for food may be the least efficient.

3. The restorative theory states that sleep allows the body to repair itself and is based on the fact that hormones necessary for growth and repair are released primarily during sleep.

4. The brain plasticity theory states that sleep is necessary for neural reorganization and proper growth and development of the mature brain. Modern life—poor work-life balance, high stress, prolonged screen exposure, and so on—makes it difficult to achieve a good night’s rest. It’s no wonder that insufficient sleep—a shorter sleep duration than required to maintain daytime wakefulness—is now considered to be a public health epidemic. Sufficient sleep supports our brain’s ability to retain and recall information, maintain focus, and make decisions. In the short term, a single night of sleep loss may interfere with these essential cognitive functions and impact mood. In the longterm, repetitive sleep loss has been linked to many chronic health issues, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and depression.

Adopting good sleep habits, also referred to as “sleep hygiene,” involves modifying behavioral and environmental factors that make space for adequate and restful sleep.

Tips for cultivating sleep hygiene:

1. Create and adhere to a schedule that reserves at least 7.5 hours of sleep nightly.

• When the duration of sleep drops below seven hours, and especially when it starts to move toward six and half hours or less, the prevalence of various disorders increases.

2. Create a routine to prepare your body and mind for rest.

• The “warm bath effect” proposes that a warm shower or bath 1–8 hours before bed increases slow-wave sleep and non-REM memory consolidation and decreases REM sleep.

• Relax your mind by incorporating light reading, journaling, yoga, and/or meditation into your nightly routine.

3. Sleep in a dark, cool environment.

• Maintaining a room temperature between 60–67°F is generally recommended to avoid disrupting the sleep stages. Excess heat exposure increases wakefulness and decreases slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep, while excess cold exposure stresses the cardiovascular system.

4. Limit blue light exposure from your cell phone, television, or computer at bedtime.

• Blue light exposure before bedtime directly impacts our body’s natural production of the “sleep hormone” and powerful antioxidant, melatonin.

5. Ensure appropriate sunlight exposure during the day.

• Consistent exposure to direct sunlight, specifically during morning hours, has been shown to effectively improve sleep quality. While both are associated with a failure to get adequate sleep, insufficient sleep is distinguished from insomnia, which occurs in individuals who struggle to begin and/or maintain sleep despite having the opportunity to. Cultivating better sleep hygiene may improve sleep quality for both conditions, but insomnia may be a symptom of an underlying disorder and should be evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider.

Dr. Aviles is a naturopathic doctor at Whole Health Natural Family Medicine in Hamden, CT, where she specializes in women’s health and pediatrics. She has a special interest in the management of gynecologic, hormonal/endocrine, and mental health conditions, acute and chronic pediatric care, as well as chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Whole Health Natural Family Medicine, 203.288.8283, admin@wholehealthct.com

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“Sufficient sleep supports our brain’s ability to retain and recall information, maintain focus, and make decisions.”

—Dr. Nicole Aviles, ND

Ask Dana! Energy, Healing, and Financial Wellness

Energy, healing, and finance are three distinct topics, but they can be related in various ways. For example, individuals who are experiencing financial stress may also experience physical and emotional symptoms related to blocked or unbalanced energy. Conversely, those experiencing physical or emotional health challenges may also experience financial strain due to medical bills and lost income.

Money Energy and Our Overall Well-Being

Energy, healing, and financial wellness are interconnected aspects of overall well-being. By addressing and balancing our energy, we can promote healing and improve our financial situation.

How do your financial situation and its energy factor into this equation? Your ability to build wealth is intricately linked to your health, and in turn, “money energy” has the potential to positively impact your happiness and well-being. It’s closely tied to your other life energies, including your food intake, physical fitness, and mental well-being. By recognizing and harnessing the invisible power of “money energy,” you can bring about significant changes in your life approach.

Practices such as meditation, yoga, and acupuncture can help to balance our energy and reduce stress, which can, in turn, improve our physical and mental health. Taking steps toward financial wellness can also help to alleviate stress and improve overall well-being.

Here are a few ideas to stimulate energy around your personal financial life:

1. Investing in yourself through education and added skills will increase your earning potential.

2. Aligning your finances with what is most meaningful and fulfilling is not only inspiring, but it also helps create forward momentum and internal fire so you can pursue your dreams.

3. Creating a budget and organizing expenses based on income can be grounding and is foundational for big-picture and future planning.

4. Be conscious of where you are spending, where you can save, and where you can allocate dollars to your retirement—or other meaningful goals.

5. Setting goals and achieving them while keeping close tabs on your balance sheet will produce a sense of fulfillment.

6. Do you long to leave a legacy and pass on abundance to family or charitable causes? Try to articulate this and put plans in place to make it happen.

7. If you need help with any of the above, a financial planner or estate planning attorney can assist you in making this a reality. Seek advice from a fiduciary adviser who truly wants to know you, connect with you and your dreams, and will make recommendations that are in your best interest.

Passion and energy can create more passion and energy. We hope you find these insights around the interconnectedness of money and well-being motivating and inspiring!

By Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P®

“Since money is energy, our financial affairs tend to reflect how our life energy is moving. When your creative energy is flowing freely, often your finances are as well. If your energy is blocked, your money may be too.”

—Shakti Gawain

Dana R. Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® is a Managing Partner with TrinityPoint Wealth, an independent SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm in Milford, CT, and Charlotte, NC. Dana advises high net-worth clients with complex needs and is sought after by individuals, families, business owners, and executives all over Connecticut and the United States. Acting as their personal CFO, Dana looks at a client’s entire financial life with a visionary lens, advising on investment portfolios, retirement planning, stock options, life transitions, exit planning for business owners, customized advanced cash-flow planning, and multi-generational wealth transfer strategies.

This material presented is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for personalized investment advice or as a recommendation or solicitation of any particular security, strategy, or investment product. TrinityPoint Wealth, nor its investment advisory representatives are permitted to provide legal or tax advice, and nothing contained in these materials should be taken as legal or tax advice.

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Gut Dysbiosis: Energy Vampire?

By Dr. Kevin Norige, DMD

More than 1000 different species of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and protozoans, call our digestive tract home— from its entrance to its exit—amounting to approximately 100 trillion individual organisms. This population is called the human gut microbiome, and depending on the part of the digestive tract that is being cultivated, the ecology of that area supports a very exclusive array of organisms that can easily be disturbed when certain parts of that local environment are modified.

The types of microorganisms present can be divided into three general categories, depending upon their effect on the host (i.e., humans):

• Beneficial (they help us function and survive)

• Commensal (they’re along for the ride)

• Pathogenic (they cause dysfunction and illness and can potentially be fatal)

When the composition or diversity of the resident microorganisms is disturbed so that certain more pathogenic organisms can flourish or when the gut is depleted of its usual overall quantity of beneficial microorganisms, the term gut dysbiosis is applied.

Why Is It Important to Maintain Our Resident Microbiome?

So, what are we doing to our resident microbiome as modern humans to enhance or disturb that delicate balance ensuring energy-rich health or energy-depleted illness?

There is only one immutable factor: If you are alive, you ARE the host.

Every other factor, to a greater or lesser degree, can be modified by how you treat your resident microbiome. One of the factors that seems immutable is aging, but even this, with appropriate considerations and attention, can yield great results for a healthy gut microflora.

Multiple factors regularly contribute to gut health or gut dysbiosis, including, but not limited to:

• Dietary composition and quantity

• Hydration

• Sleep habits and sleep-disturbed breathing

• Exercise habits

• Psychological condition

• Environmental toxins, including environmental contaminants, smoking, and alcohol

• Prescription drugs and medications

Essentially, all those things your mother told you to be careful of when you were young.

Ecosystems of the Digestive Tract

Let’s look a little more closely at the four general ecosystems within the digestive tract:

1. the oral cavity and esophagus

2. the stomach

3. the small intestine

4. the colon or large intestine

Between each of these specific anatomical regions are powerful muscular sphincters that, under normal healthy conditions, act as gatekeepers to prevent backflow and cross-contamination. These junctions also prevent the retrograde flow of resident microflora.

Ecosystem 1 : Mouth and Esophagus

The first ecosystem, the mouth and esophagus, is the entryway for all nutrients and irritants to the gut microbiome. This area is usually characterized in health as an alkaline watery environment, with the primary microbes preferring an oxygen-rich environment. However, in the pathology known as periodontal disease, anaerobic (oxygen-hating) bacteria flourish, which have been causatively linked to atherosclerosis.

Ecosystem 2 : The Stomach

As we pass through the lower esophageal sphincter, we enter the second major ecosystem, characterized by its high HCl acid concentration specifically designed to reduce bulk protein

“If you are alive, you ARE the host. Every other factor, to a greater or lesser degree, can be modified by how you treat your resident microbiome. One of the factors that seems immutable is aging, but even this, with appropriate considerations and attention, can yield great results for a healthy gut microflora.”

—Dr. Kevin Norige, DMD

sources into smaller peptides and single amino acids. This high concentration has the beneficial side effect of neutralizing many otherwise pathogenic microorganisms before they can reach the next ecosystem, the small intestine. If the stomach is overfilled or acid-reducing medications are indiscriminately prescribed and used, the modulating effect of this ecosystem is changed with significant potential adverse effects—for example, GERD and Barrett’s esophagitis.

Ecosystem 3 : The Small Intestine

The third major digestive tract ecosystem is found in the small intestine. The primary physiologic functions of this part of the digestive system are biochemical rather than microbial, and its acidity is at a more neutral pH, having been buffered with bile salts and digestive enzymes. Consequently, in health, the small intestine has a lower quantity and diversity of microbes. But under the wrong circumstances, even the small intestine can become overpopulated by microbes.

Ecosystem 4: The Colon or Large Intestine

Finally, we reach the most significant repository of microbial life in our digestive tract: the colon or large intestine. These resident microbes make our lives as humans possible, and most of the time, they serve us well. It is here that the greatest quantity of microbes exists in a great diversity of species and strains. And it is with great peril that we ignore this ecosystem or, worse, try to annihilate parts of it altogether.

Nurture Your Resident Microbiome

The synthesis of essential vitamins and gut-brain neurotransmitters occurs through the actions of these denizens, which modulate the digestion of certain foods. And yet, when we forget to nurture them (with prebiotics) or when we destroy them (with overly processed “foods” or with broad-spectrum antibiotics), we set ourselves up for the ravages of chronic inflammatory problems and illness and sometimes even acute severe illness.

Pay attention to your resident microbiome. It could mean the difference between vibrant energy-rich wellness and serious health problems.

Kevin Norige, DMD, is the founder and chief dentist at South Windsor Smiles, a private dental practice that focuses on oral health as part of the whole-body system. For over 35 years he has worked with patients to achieve a healthy mouth and live a healthier life. Call 860.288.2111 or www.SouthWindsorSmiles.com.

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Your Ancestral Wounds May Be Causing Your Physical Pain

By Jacqueline M. Kane, Master Energy Healer, R.T., LMT, EFT

Weare all energetic beings, susceptible to the energy of others. It started in the womb—for nine months, we were exposed to the hormones, nutrition, and emotional state of our mother and take on all her energy. We didn’t have a choice! We were conceived inside of her.

All her worries, concerns, joys, and excitement surrounded us. And that’s where our ancestral energy began because our mom was carrying her mother’s energy, beliefs, and programming. There were even ancestral health conditions, pain, and suffering entering us in the womb. It became our DNA, our cells were infused with it; our nervous system, every system in our body was created from that energy.

Generations of Inherited Trauma

The DNA of your personal family trauma is being passed down from generation to generation. Along with our mother’s energy, we also inherited our parents’ ancestors’ unresolved emotional issues, problems, and trauma. These patterns can have an inhibiting or disruptive influence on your life today. Some of these can create obstacles in your lives, blocking your pathway to joy, abundance, authentic power, and unlimited possibilities.

Scientists are now studying how the grandchildren of the Holocaust are impacted by ancestral energy leading to grief, sadness, or pain. They experience guilt around being alive. That guilt will then show up in every area of their lives. They may feel bad about being successful and doing well. They could experience much sadness in their lives and not understand why.

Similarly, if a family member committed suicide, you could be carrying that energy of grief and sadness, which can contribute to unprocessed pain in the body. Along with having more thoughts about suicide and death.

Manifestations of Inherited Trauma

In my own life, my grandmother and mother lived in Sardinia, Italy, during World War II. My grandfather was a soldier fighting at the front while she was home alone raising three children. Living in fear and worry about his life, struggling to feed her family, and living in constant fear of the German soldiers who’d invaded her town was the norm for her.

Can you imagine the level of fear she felt and what impact that was having on her, every day of her life? And back then, no one talked about it. People suppressed their emotions just to survive. That fear became part of them, affecting their neurons, programming, DNA, and all systems of their body.

That fear gets passed down from one generation of the family to the next.

I remember growing up with fear and worry and not knowing why I was always nervous. Those feelings kept me exhausted and depressed for years. That was when I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and was living with physical pain in my hips and low back.

Another example is when a father passes away at the age of 59. His son has been healthy all his life, works out every day, is a successful businessman, and appears to be healthy. At the age of 59, he discovers he has a brain tumor. Within a year this man goes from being apparently healthy to passing away at the same age that his father passed.

There are also some families who have a family history of allergies or heart conditions. These conditions become the truth of the family—you’ve heard people say, yes, that disease/condition/affliction runs in my family. It’s just the way it is. It becomes the truth of the family, an imprinted belief.

“These patterns can have an inhibiting or disruptive influence on your life today. Some of these can create obstacles in your lives, blocking your pathway to joy, abundance, authentic power, and unlimited possibilities.”

-Jacqueline M. Kane, Master Energy Healer, R.T., LMT, EFT

Signs and Symptoms of Ancestral Wounds

•Heart conditions

•Anxiety

•Depression

• Patterns of feeling unfulfilled

•Arthritis

•Headaches

If you experience any of these, ancestral healing may be the missing link that can free you so you can live pain-free and with personal fulfillment.

When we clear the energy, you have the opportunity to choose a new way of being. Your body and mind can then begin to choose how you want to feel. You can choose what new beliefs you want to believe about yourself.

When that change occurs, physical healing can be achieved faster and easier. You can get back to living your life with more ease and flow. You have a new awareness of your pain and can feel empowered around your health and life.

Ancestral clearing/healing has made a significant difference in my life. I no longer worry about everything. I get to choose to trust in myself and know I’m fully supported in all areas of my life. This has resulted in allowing more ease and flow into my marriage, enjoying fun adventurous vacations, running a successful business, and being more present when spending time with friends.

Let Me Help You Uncover the Root Cause

Busy moms, entrepreneurs, and professionals benefit from my individual and group programs based on decades of expertise in the healthcare industry and private practice. Through my work, I facilitate deep healing of trauma, low back pain, and chronic conditions tied to limiting mindsets impacting health and wealth. Clients’ proven results are reclaimed energy, moving freely and powerfully, and manifesting their goals aligned with their soul purpose.

By using my “Uncover the Root Cause” process, we unravel negative thoughts and clear limitations including inner child and ancestral karma that has held them back for decades. My clients quickly and easily achieve major shifts in creating the new level of health, wealth, and lifestyle they desire. If you’re ready to reach your health and wealth goals, schedule your complimentary Real Pain Relief session today.

06461 20 3.693 .8521 • dan a@t r in i typo i nt w ealth.co m lin kedin. com /i n /d anamclaughlin1 / NATURALNUTMEGMAGAZINE’SSELECTIONMETHODOLOGYWASCONDUCTEDTHROUGHPUBLICSOURCES,INCLUDINGSUBSCRIBERSWHONOMINATEDCANDIDATESTOVARIOUSCATEGORIESBASEDONNOOTHER SPECIFIC CRITERIA OTHERTHAN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.

OF NOMINEESWERETHENVOTED ON BY SUBSCRIBERS,AGAIN BASED ON NO OTHER SPECIFIC CRITERIA. RANKINGSARE SOLELY BASED ONTHE NUMBEROFVOTESRECEIVED.THENATURALNUTMEGMAGAZINE’S10BESTAWARDRECOGNITIONSHOULDNOTBECONSTRUEDBYACLIENTORAPROSPECTIVECLIENTASAGUARANTEETHATHE/SHEWILL EXPERIENCEACERTAINLEVELOFRESULTSIFTRINITYPOINTWEALTHORANYOFITSINVESTMENTADVISORREPRESENTATIVESAREENGAGED;NORSHOULDITBECONSTRUEDASACURRENTORPASTENDORSEMENT OFTRINITYPOINTWEALTHBYANYOFITSCLIENTS.INVESTMENTPERFORMANCEISNOTACRITERIONFORTHERECOGNITIONANDTHERECOGNITIONISNOTINDICATIVEOFTRINITYPOINTWEALTH’SFUTURE PERFORMANCE.TRINITYPOINTWEALTHDIDNOTPAYAFEEFORTHISRECOGNITION.THEINCLUSIONOFA10BESTAWARDONTHENATURALNUTMEGMAGAZINE’SLISTSHOULDNOTBECONSTRUEDASAN ENDORSEMENTOFTHEINVESTMENTADVISORYREPRESENTATIVEBYNATURALNUTMEGMAGAZINE.THEAWARDDOESNOTEVALUATETHEQUALITYOFSERVICEPROVIDEDANDTHEINVESTMENTADVISOR REPRESENTATIVEMAYHAVEHADUNFAVORABLERATINGS.WORKINGWITHA10BESTAWARDWINNERORANYINVESTMENTADVISORREPRESENTATIVEISNOGUARANTEEASTOFUTUREINVESTMENTSUCCESS.

< PAGE 17 “Ask Dana! Energy, Healing, and Financial Wellness” BY DANA MASCALO, CFP®, RLP®

As

a Master Energetic

Healer and Low Back Pain Specialist, Jacqueline Kane guides women to uncover the hidden energetic and karmic blocks that keep them in physical, emotional, and financial pain. Call Jacqueline at 860.307.0232 or email jacqueline@jacquelinemkane. com. Learn more at jacquelinemkane.com.

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Take the Journey to Manifest Your Dreams

By Agnes Daddona

Hopes and dreams are the driving force that motivates us to strive for a better future. They manifest themselves in various ways in our lives, and their realization gives us a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

As Psychic Medium, Intuitive Counselor, Healer, Manifestation Coach, and Spiritual Teacher for over 20 years, I have helped thousands of people around the world to manifest their deepest desires. Working with so many beautiful souls, I realized that most of my clients don’t truly know what their dreams are, and if asked, they will talk more about their wants and not their deepest needs. We have a better chance of manifesting our true needs since we have a stronger desire to bring them into reality.

Remember that our manifestation of hopes and dreams can happen on both conscious and unconscious levels of the mind.

Consciously, we may actively pursue our dreams by setting goals, making plans, and putting in the effort to achieve them. This may involve sacrificing some short-term pleasures and comforts for our desired long-term success. For example, a person who dreams of starting their own business may work long hours, save money, and invest resources to realize their vision. This conscious manifestation of their dreams allows them to achieve their desired outcomes and materialize their hopes.

Your Manifestation Journey—Step 1

The first step to manifestation is to make a list of your dreams and notice the thoughts and emotions associated with them. Do you have

more positive or negative perceptions about your desires? Do you believe you can manifest those dreams? This is important because our thoughts and feelings constantly manifest our reality. Start observing your thoughts and feelings about yourself, your life, and your future. Shift your thinking to more positive by surrounding yourself with positive people, doing things you love, praying, meditating, visualizing your dreams, starting a gratitude journal, using positive affirmations, doing yoga, walking, and journaling. All this can help you to release your worries, raise your energy, open your heart, and accelerate manifestation. However, we can also manifest unconsciously. Our unconscious minds can shape our thoughts and perceptions, leading us to make choices and take action. Do you question why manifestation is not working? If your dream is to attract love, but your subconscious mind is full of fear, unfortunately, the subconscious mind always wins. We all have layers of limiting beliefs, fears, and blocks that cannot be changed overnight.

Your Manifestation Journey—Step 2

The second step in your manifestation journey is to do deeper healing to release everything stored in your unconscious which no longer serves you and replace it with what you truly desire. After witnessing so many clients who struggled with manifesting their desires, I discovered that the negative beliefs, traumas, and fears locked in the subconscious mind cause the problem. The subconscious mind is always stronger than the conscious one and can easily overrun our conscious efforts.

“Shift your thinking to more positive by surrounding yourself with positive people, doing things you love, praying, meditating, visualizing your dreams, starting a gratitude journal, using positive affirmations, doing yoga, walking, and journaling. All this can help you to release your worries, raise your energy, open your heart, and accelerate manifestation.”

—Agnes Daddona

I help my clients heal on a very deep level and assist them in activating their gifts, talents, potential, and soul power so they can create the life of their dreams.

Your Manifestation Journey—Step 3

The third step in your manifestation journey is to connect with your soul and your divine team— God, angels, and spirit guides. Becoming cocreators with the divine and trusting God and angels that your dreams come into reality and expecting their help is a crucial part of the manifestation.

I help my clients to connect with their divine team on a very high level, and the outcome is astonishing. My clients’ perceptions of their lives change for the better. This can even be seen in how they approach challenges and obstacles, interpreting them as opportunities for growth rather than unresolvable problems. They gain a more positive mindset and self-confidence. They begin to have a more positive outlook on life and believe in themselves more and their abilities. They know they’re supported, so they pursue their goals with confidence. My clients start manifesting even their biggest dreams, being divinely guided by signs, synchronicities, and dreams that seemingly come out of nowhere but are the result of their divine support stepping in to assist them.

The Pursuit of Dreams

Our hopes and dreams manifest through conscious and unconscious efforts, shaping our thoughts, actions, and beliefs. Whether through conscious goal-setting, unconscious creativity, or a connection with a higher power, the manifestation of our aspirations can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life. By embracing our dreams and acting toward them, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and those around us.

Would you like to manifest your biggest dreams into reality? Book a session with me today.

Agnes Daddona is one of the best Psychic/Mediums in New England. The gift of intuition runs in her family for generations. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people worldwide through Psychic Readings, Mediumship, Channeling Angels, Counseling, Healing, and Teaching in English and Polish. Agnes has transformed many people’s lives to meet their dreams. She continues to solve the most difficult issues when it seems no one else can help. To book your Intuitive Reading, contact Agnes at www.AgnesDaddona.com, email at agnes@IntuitiveCounselingllc.com, or call 860.941.2667. See ad on page 43 >

High-Vibration Foods for Your Best Life

By Erika Dworkin, BCHN

What does food mean to you? Is it a way to have fun, feed a need, bond with friends and family, learn about the world, or detoxify and lose weight? How often do you focus on food as a critical way to create the energy that will best serve you and your body, to give it the best fuel so you can create your best life—much the way you ensure that your car operates optimally with the proper oil and gas for long-term reliability?

Food, of course, is your body’s primary, essential, ongoing source of energy, and you become what you eat and absorb. It can be your body’s medicine or toxin. Ultimately, your diet, as one element of your lifestyle habits, contributes to how your future will unfold. Whether you regularly consume nutrient-dense, high-vibration foods or low-nutrient, low-energy, overcooked fast food, for example, will impact your mind and beliefs and whether you can create the life you desire. As your life unfolds, will you choose to live vibrantly or to struggle with weight management, anxiety, depression, insomnia, menopausal hormonal imbalances, fatigue, allergies, or degenerative diseases, including cancer?

What Is High-Vibration Food?

Vibrational energy exists in all living things and can be felt and measured. All food has an energy vibration, and eating high-vibration food raises your own vibration. High-vibration food can improve physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Foods with the highest energy vibrations are fresh, raw or minimally cooked, unprocessed, and organic (free of pesticides. They do not contain toxic additives like preservatives, artificial flavorings or sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, other sugars, trans fats, or dyes.

They provide high levels of healthy nutrients like antioxidants, water, vitamins and minerals, fiber, and essential fatty acids and are low in simple carbohydrates, salt, and saturated fats.

Nutrient-dense, high-vibration foods include vegetables (cruciferous, dark green lettuces, herbs, sprouts, microgreens), wild-caught fish, organic chicken, and eggs (though some maintain that all animal-sourced foods are low-vibration), fermented foods (live probiotics), legumes, nuts and seeds,

pure filtered water and teas, whole grains, spices (turmeric, ginger), and superfoods (spirulina, chlorella, tulsi, moringa, high cacao dark chocolate).

Physical, Mental, and Emotional Benefits of High-Vibration Foods

Long-term, regular consumption of high-vibration foods allows you to tap into their healing properties as they impact your body on the deepest cellular level. Studies have shown that they:

• reduce pain and inflammation

• support weight loss

• reduce stress, depression, and anxiety

• increase energy and promote restful sleep

• improve digestion

• support brain function, focus, and mental clarity

• enhance immunity and prevent disease

• balance hormones

• detoxify

As they help raise the frequency of your energy, you can experience greater inner peace, love, joy, personal power, and emotional balance.

Spiritual Benefits of High-Vibration Foods

Your ability to connect to Spirit, your spirit guides, and angels is highly linked to the foods you consume. Scientific research has established that consuming high-vibration foods can:

1. better connect you to the earth and your environment

2. grant you access to higher states of consciousness

3. enhance your self-awareness

4. intensify meditation

5. increase intuition

How to Use Food and Supplements to Map Your Best Life

Only you can decide what the rest of your life will look like, and the foods you consume will significantly determine your path.

No single dietary regimen works for everyone. When determining which long-term program will best promote your wellness and longevity, remember that all the program’s foods, even if high vibration, may not support you. Use a mindfulness

“Your beliefs become your thoughts. Your thoughts become your words. Your words become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become your values. Your values become your destiny.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

journal to track what foods and fluids make you feel healthy/unhealthy, energized/tired, slender/ bloated, happy/depressed, relaxed/tense, mentally sharp/foggy-headed, or strong/weak.

You will be most successful in modifying your diet if your adopted approach, followed and monitored in thirty-day increments, is affordable, convenient, easy to follow, satisfying (with a variety of exciting, tasty recipes), sensible and forgiving (everyone needs to cheat occasionally!), and sustainable long-term.

High-quality dietary supplements and essential oils can fill the gaps where diet modification and other healthy lifestyle choices don’t fully address health challenges. Dietary supplements are regulated as food and are relatively safe. Essential oils can be safely used topically and aromatically, and certain superior brands can be used internally.

Despite the general safety of natural therapies, remember that you, your body, and your life experiences are unique and that nutrition—specifically, the selection of supplements and essential oils—is complex and, therefore, NOT a do-it-yourself project. Many people make mistakes when choosing natural therapies based on internet research or guidance from friends, retail sales associates, or practitioners who are not well-versed in nutrition. Working closely with a practitioner with a thorough understanding of the importance of high-energy foods will best ensure that your life will follow the healthiest path. Since food is not always a good way to address health concerns, expertise in developing therapeutic lifestyle change programs that include dietary supplements is also very supportive.

Submitted by Erika Dworkin, BCHN (Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition®), Wellness Guide and former owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe in Manchester, CT (www.cthealthshop. com), which operated for 65 years. See this full article online at www.naturalnutmeg.com. To read more about this topic, contact to get a copy of her chapter in the 25 practitioners’ collaborative book, The Energy Medicine Solution: Mind-Blowing Results to Live Your Extraordinary Life. All statements in this article are practice- or scientific evidence-based, and references are available upon request. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, are for educational purposes only, and are not intended to take the place of a physician’s advice. Erika is available for nutrition consultations and to speak to groups, in person or via Telehealth or Zoom. She can be contacted by phone at 860.646.8178, or by email at edworkin@vitathena. com. Office Hours By Request. Visit www.vitathenawellness.com to contact Erika for a Complimentary 20-Minute Wellness Assessment.

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Good Nutrition Is Key for Caregivers Avoiding Chronic Health Issues

By Brenda Sullivan

As the primary caregiver for my daughter with cerebral palsy (now twenty-six years old) and a lengthy list of medical issues, and with my husband recently receiving a brain cancer diagnosis, I’m no stranger to the intense demands of caregiving. Caregivers are often told to prioritize their health, but what does that mean?

When you’re focused on caring for someone else, it can be easy to neglect your health. A Canadian study about health among caregivers of children with chronic health concluded the following.

“After we controlled for relevant family, caregiver, and child factors, caregivers of children with health problems had substantially greater odds of reporting chronic conditions, activity limitations, poor general health, and symptoms of depression than did caregivers of healthy children.”

Some health issues reported were food allergies, asthma, sinusitis, arthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, urinary incontinence, dementia, Alzheimer, stomach issues, diabetes, depression, and many more.

Healthy Meal Ideas for Caregivers

lunch to take with you. You can also make a big pot of soup or stew and freeze portions for later. Soups and stews are a great meal to pack in healthier, nutritious herbs and medicinal mushrooms such as shiitake, known for fighting cancer, boosting immunity, and supporting heart health. Maitake (also known as hen-of-the-woods) mushrooms are great for reducing cholesterol and balancing blood sugar and are another cancer-fighting food!

Foods to Avoid for Caregiver Well-Being

I have found that I’m calmer, don’t gain as much weight, and can focus better when I avoid foods like red meat, processed meats including cured meats, refined grains (e.g., white bread and pasta), chips, cookies, crackers, and pastries, sodas and sweetened drinks, dairy, fried foods, and large amounts of sugar.

Herbs for Stress Relief and Relaxation

—Canadian Population Study from the American Journal of Public Health

Eating nutritious food is critical to supporting your body to perform at its best and reducing or avoiding some of these chronic illnesses. Fill your meals with fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to find natural energy and manage stress levels. It’s essential to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water. I like to add peppermint stems (known for digestive aid and boosting immunity) or lemon balm (recognized for reducing stress) to my water bottle throughout the day.

Finding the time for healthy meals and snacks can be challenging when you’re busy caring for someone else. But there are simple ways to ensure you get the nutrients you need. Have pre-cut fruits and veggies on hand for snacking, or pack a nutritious

Herbs have been used for centuries to support well-being. They help with stress relief, energy, and relaxation and are generally easy to use. I love herbs like chamomile, perfect as an iced or hot tea before bed. Lavender is another relaxing herb that is good in tea. I also love to use seasonings, such as Herbs de Provence, perfect on white fish or chicken, and Ashwagandha, excellent when added to coffee, soups and stews, or mixed with dips. I love to whip up batches of herbal-infused energy balls with various herbal powders. They make the perfect afternoon snack, a sweet treat to satisfy my cravings and help me through a tough day. Creating these energy balls is so straightforward; no cooking is even necessary. My favorite ingredients for energy balls include tahini, nut butter, honey, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and cocoa powder or dairy-free, sugar-free bittersweet chips for chocolate lovers.

“After we controlled for relevant family, caregiver, and child factors, caregivers of children with health problems had substantially greater odds of reporting chronic conditions, activity limitations, poor general health, and symptoms of depression than did caregivers of healthy children.”

The following herbal powders I add to my energy ball recipe include:

• Siberian ginseng (also known as Eleuthero), an adaptogen herb that bolsters the immune system, increases longevity, and boosts vitality.

•Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb that regulates cortisol levels and reduces anxiety and inflammation.

• Lion’s mane mushroom powder, which helps ease mild symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Chaga mushroom powder, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help lower blood sugar and regulate blood pressure.

Besides energy balls, there are many ways to incorporate herbs into your day besides drinking herbal tea. You can also take tinctures/capsules, add fresh/dried herbs to your dishes for an extra nutritional bunch, or make your own DIY herbal body care products like balms, salves, body butter, and shower melts with calming essential oils.

Herbs and Prescription Drugs

It’s important to remember that certain herbs can interact with prescribed medications, especially when taken in concentrated forms like capsules or tinctures. It is always wise to speak to a healthcare professional before using herbs in this way. They will be able to advise you on the correct dosage and any potential risks.

Caring for a loved one with a chronic illness can be challenging, but if caregivers look after themselves properly, they will have the strength and capability to provide strong support. Eating nutritious food, exercising, and using herbs are simple yet effective ways of maintaining your well-being.

Make sure you stay hydrated and consider including herbs in your daily routine—and remember to seek extra help and support, such as online support groups, counseling services, and local resources. Looking after yourself is of utmost importance if you want to be an effective caregiver to someone living with a chronic illness.

Brenda Sullivan is the proprietor of Thompson Street Farm and Farm to Bath and is an avid herbalist. Her garden, where she grows medicinal flowers and herbs for her bath and body products, is a source of endless joy and knowledge. Using herbs has given Brenda and her family an improved quality of life. Brenda loves sharing her herbal insights on her podcast and YouTube channel, Living and Lovin Herbs. Websites: https://www.farmtobath.com/ www.livingandlovinherbs.com.

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The Energy Medicine Solution Retreat—A Must for All That Ails You

By Lori Hubbard, MA

Isatdown to talk with Jacqueline Kane, Master Energy Healer, about the upcoming Energy Medicine Solution Retreat she and many other healers from the U.S. and Canada are joining together to host this October.

The retreat is based on the Amazon bestselling book, The Energy Medicine Solution, authored by a variety of practitioners who are knowledgeable and experienced and have helped many clients change their lives without having to rely solely on traditional medicine. This includes many of the experts who will be hosting the retreat:

• Jacqueline M Kane,RT, LMT, EFT, Master Energy Healer and Low Back Pain Specialist,

• Erika Dworkin, BCHN®, Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Wellness Guide

• Lori Pieper, Reiki Master, Total Well-Being Coach

• Vera Halina, LMT, CCH, RYT

• Pat McGrath, Spiritual Counselor and Feng Shui Consultant

• Elizabeth Waugh Duford,MSW, CCM, Certified Crystal Master Healer

• Alana Heim, CPA/PFS, CFP, Certified Human Design Specialist

• Bradford W Tilden, CMT, MM, UWT, Composer, Vibrational Healer

• Sunshine Layne, Medium, Energy Healer, Holistic Spiritual/Soul Life Coach

The book came about due to these practitioners wanting to get to the root cause of physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial pain—not just treating the symptoms, but actually finding the source of the symptoms and addressing that source.

The Power of Energy

Not enough people truly understand how energy impacts our health and our lives.

As we talked, the more Jacqueline explained to me what the retreat would entail, the more intrigued I became.

Like so many of us, my life has become one of extreme stress over the past few years. I prioritize work over my personal life, my relationships, and even my health. I turned 50 this year, and it’s becoming increasingly clearer that something must change. Yes, I need to work. And thankfully, I love what I do. But when that’s ALL I do, what kind of life am I really living?

Jacqueline explained that energy is the missing piece we need to heal our pain. Energy impacts everything. The energy you’ve inherited, the energy you have within you, and even the energy of those around you, all impact who you are at a core, foundational level.

This means, for example, that migraine I’ve had for days? Pharmaceuticals help the pain, but they don’t get to the root cause.

An Anecdote

To this, I can speak from experience. Though I do still get migraines, they’re far fewer and further between than they used to be. I searched relentlessly for what was causing them. I cut out certain foods, certain habits, nothing worked. After a few years of this, it was my (now ex) husband who figured it out.

It was his mother.

Cliché, right? The quintessential overbearing mother-in-law who believed no one could ever be good enough for her baby boy, she played the role perfectly. I hadn’t realized that every time I knew I was going to have to see her, my migraines would flare up. I was having a physical reaction to an external influence. Her energy impacted my energy.

In other words, she made me miserable in every possible way, and I didn’t have the coping mechanisms to figure out how to deal with it. And to be perfectly honest, that’s the primary reason we’re no longer married.

It was easy for people on the outside to say I should have tried harder, I should have ignored her, I should have done this or that. But the truth is, I just

“Energy impacts everything. The energy you’ve inherited, the energy you have within you, and even the energy of those around you, all impact who you are at a core, foundational level.”

—Lori Hubbard, MA

didn’t have the tools to know how to do that. And frankly, I shouldn’t have to. But that’s another story for another time.

Because of that experience, the stress of my daily life, the pressure and expectations I put on myself, and various other reasons, I decided I wanted to attend the retreat. What started out as a conversation with Jacqueline to get the information I needed to write an article about the retreat turned into a life-changing decision that I can’t wait to begin.

Should You Attend? Yes!

The retreat is for anyone who:

Wants to Heal Their Body and…

• Suffers from chronic pain, stress, and anxiety

• Is consumed with fear connected to an autoimmune condition

• Has experienced sudden, uncontrolled weight gain, insomnia, night sweats, hot flashes, depression, self-doubt, or fear about crippling degenerative diseases that reduce longevity

• Is frustrated with a healthcare system that robs you of time and money while demanding repeated visits, expensive treatments, and unpleasant side effects

Want to Master Their Mind and…

• Struggles with trusting themselves

• Has low self-esteem and feels the need to be perfect

• Feels powerless, stuck, hopeless, or numb

• Believes they lack choices

• Suffers from symptoms of emotional trauma

• Is distracted by what others think

Wants to Expand Their Spirit and . . .

• Lacks inner peace

• Can’t balance Doing with Being

• Feels disconnected from a power greater than themselves

• Feels ungrounded and lacks mindfulness

• Is not aware of how their surroundings are keeping them stuck

What’s Included

Here’s some of what you can expect at this amazing retreat:

• Healing workshops: 15+ hours of dedicated workshops delivered by nine energy healing experts to improve your health and quality of life

• Healing activities: Participate in a healing sound bath, group ancestral energy healing session, and much more

• Lunch: Lunch will be provided to all in-person retreat attendees on Friday and Saturday

• Wi-Fi and parking: Complimentary Wi-Fi and parking are provided by the venue

1:1 Coaching for Moms

Raising Kids With Autism

FREE VIDEO COURSE: Keeping Your Cool During An Autism Meltdown

In this video series, Lisa will teach you her before, during and after process for managing your mind and regulating your emotions during an Autism meltdown.

this

• You will learn how to:

•Harness your innate power to heal yourself

•Use nutrition, herbs, and teas to help heal your body

•Minimize the pain and daily stress you now embrace as normal

•Love your body in new powerful ways

•Flourish after cancer

•Create a new prosperity mindset

• Develop confidence that you are “good enough” and can make a difference

•Make your well-being a priority over pleasing others

•Connect with Spirit, your higher self, and your life’s purpose

• Embrace your inner peace and joy

Thursday, October 12, 7–9 pm: Welcome Day one of the retreat will be a relaxed, casual meet and greet to set the stage with introductions as the attendees are welcomed into the fellowship and community to meet the healers and practitioners.

This evening is the beginning of your three-day journey to help you awaken, activate, and trust your inner wisdom. During the evening, attendees will set their intentions for what they hope to gain during the retreat.

The hosts will also get to know the issues and challenges the attendees are facing so they can guide you to receive the most transformation in the time of the retreat.

Friday, October 13, 9 am–5 pm: Workshops

The first full day of the retreat offers healing techniques from six international experts. Friday will start off on the lighter side, creating a safe container to develop space for you to experience transformational healing sessions where you will get to the root cause of your physical, emotional, and financial pain.

You will begin to clear your energy through a variety of techniques used to retrain your brain for optimal healing. This will include ancestral energy clearing, rebirthing, inner child healing, sound healing, meditation, and more. Using these modalities of healing, clearing, and energy medicine will have a tremendous impact on every area of your life.

Saturday, October 14, 9 am–5 pm: Workshops

The second full day of the retreat continues using these healing techniques with the same experts you worked with on Friday. With your safe container in place, you will further explore the

healing modalities to clear your energy. This allows for a more comfortable place to dig even deeper into your issues to determine where you’re blocking, and why.

These techniques enable you to create the life you want, on your terms. This is the first step in your journey to living your authentic life. Whether it’s health, wealth, relationships, or all the above, we will get to the stuck crevices of your soul that are blocking your ability to receive.

There will be a focus on prosperity, feng shui and energy, Chinese herbs, teas, and nutrition, crystal healing, and more. Saturday’s session will wrap up with bonus sessions from the healers and practitioners.

Sunday, October 15, 9 am–2 pm: Bring It Home

Now it’s time to integrate, embody, and employ all that newfound awareness. Today is about nurturing yourself and celebrating the person you have rediscovered.

You will take this day to ensure you’re grounded and have the right tools in place to bring your new container home and know how to use it, so you can transition back into your life with these new tools to help guide you.

Wonderful things can happen with leaps in awareness, which is what The Energy Medicine Solution Retreat is all about. With your awareness reawakened, you can connect with your inner wisdom.

With energy healing, every area of your life will change. You may experience days where you’re completely pain free, when you haven’t had that experience in years, or even decades. You sleep better. You have more energy.

This is very concentrated work, but it will catapult your ability to heal your body. When you do the work, you open your money channel, relationships, confidence, and more. You can just be you— without overthinking. People see you and hear you. You present more, and you are more present.

How to Sign Up and Attend

The energy medicine solution retreat is a weekend global livestream event, in-person and via Zoom! This is the opportunity for 12 months of healing in a three-day container. There is also an accelerator package for those who want more healing! Learn about pricing, location, and package options by visiting bit.ly/EnergyRetreat2023.

You will be transformed!

Lori Hubbard, MA is Editor-in-Chief of Natural Nutmeg and Essential Naples magazines, and is also a freelance editor, writer, and graphic designer. See ad on Inside Front Cover >

Healthcare Should Be a Partnership—Not a Dictatorship

Women’s healthcare can be complex. We have symptoms that feel hormonal or cyclical in nature, but many traditional providers don’t want to test hormones to try to determine what is causing those symptoms. They don’t see it as an effective option and instead, they throw a bandage on the symptom instead of looking for the root cause.

We leave those appointments feeling unheard. The provider hasn’t taken the time to listen and we’re back to square one. We feel frustrated and may even give up trying to find help, knowing the next provider is going to do and say the same thing.

Listen to Your Body

Here’s a novel concept: The people who are living in their own bodies know what’s happening and what they’re feeling.

Integrative medicine believes in body speak, understanding that everything is connected. In integrative medicine, the body is viewed as a system of systems. Symptoms are multifactorial, meaning many things are taking place to cause them, whether it’s something in their personal life, not relaxing/restoring enough, not getting enough exercise, insufficient nutrition, and so on.

So even if our symptoms feel hormone-related, hormones themselves aren’t always the problem. Our hormones are how our bodies communicate with us, and imbalances or issues are often a symptom of something else.

Good Partnerships Are Crucial— in Your Body and in the Exam Room

Think of your hormones as a symphony. They all play a role and when they work together, beautiful things happen. But, say, cortisol over here on cello is playing from different sheet music,

playing an entirely different symphony. We need to get our cello the right sheet music so it plays in harmony with the rest of the orchestra. This takes detective work— we need to peel back the layers and find what needs the most support. There’s a system of trial and error to determine what could be happening, and then testing and tweaking solutions until they’re just right. This is where patients must buy in. This process is a partnership—an honest, open, ongoing conversation. Patients must be met where they are so the solutions are sustainable for them. Because everything is connected, if they think something isn’t going to work, it’s not going to work.

What Is the Approach?

The partnership of shared decision-making is critical. Integrative medicine brings the information to the patient, taking their history and preferences into account, discussing the standard of care and recommendations for treatment, but also asks how the patient feels about those options. Ultimately, the patient makes the final decision—one she feels is best for her.

At Swan Integrative, the first appointment is set for an hour to give the provider time to get to know the patient—to really listen and hear their story. We focus on the person, their problems, and their feelings. Patients often don’t know where to start, so we work on individualizing the plan for the person. And we make it accessible, with small, achievable steps toward the goal of better health and happiness.

The validation patients feel when an anomaly is discovered, the joy they have when they feel heard and solutions are in place for healing, means the world.

Maura Aaberg, APRN, is dually certified as a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner. She has been caring for women almost 15 years, and her goal is to help them heal themselves and live healthier, happier lives. By working together, she helps women find the root cause of their symptoms, create space for healing, and aim to avoid chronic disease. Active listening and targeted interventions help find the right balance between lifestyle changes and modern medicine. Contact Swan Integrative at 860.635.2679, email info@swanintegrative.com, and visit swanintegrative.com.

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“Integrative medicine believes in body speak, understanding that everything is connected. In integrative medicine, the body is viewed as a system of systems.”

— Maura Aaberg, APRN

By Maura Aaberg, APRN

Natural Remedies for a Great Night’s Sleep

By April Beaman, RDH, CTT

Getting a good night’s sleep has become increasingly elusive for many individuals. With mounting stress, technological distractions, and a sedentary lifestyle, sleep deprivation is prevalent. However, the consequences of inadequate sleep go beyond mere fatigue and can have a significant impact on our overall health. Research has shown a strong connection between insufficient sleep and various health conditions, including an increased risk of breast cancer.

Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help restore balance and promote restful slumber. In this article, we will delve into the realm of natural remedies to improve sleep, providing you with a holistic approach to achieving optimal health through rejuvenating sleep.

Why Sleep Matters

Before delving into natural remedies, it’s crucial to understand why sleep matters. Sleep is a fundamental physiological process that allows our bodies to rejuvenate, repair, and restore energy. Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional well-being, immune system health, and hormone regulation. Lack of sleep, on the other hand, can lead to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, a weakened immune system, and mental health disorders.

1 Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Sleep hygiene refers to the practices and habits that contribute to healthy sleep. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can create an environment conducive to a good night’s rest:

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

•Designate your bedroom as a sacred space for sleep and relaxation. Keep it clean, clutter-free, and cool.

•Limit exposure to electronic devices, particularly before bedtime, as the blue light emitted can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle.

•Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with the quality of your sleep.

2 Embrace the Power of Relaxation Techniques

Calming the mind and body before bedtime is crucial for a peaceful slumber. Incorporate the following relaxation techniques into your evening routine:

•Practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your nervous system and induce relaxation.

• Engage in progressive muscle relaxation, where you systematically tense and release each muscle group, promoting physical and mental relaxation.

• Explore the benefits of meditation or mindfulness practices. These techniques can help quiet the mind, reduce anxiety, and prepare you for a restful sleep.

3 Harness the Magic of Herbal Allies

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to promote better sleep. Consider incorporating these natural allies into your bedtime routine:

“Sleep is a fundamental physiological process that allows our bodies to rejuvenate, repair, and restore energy.

Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, immune system health, and hormone regulation.”

—April Beaman, RDH, CTT

•Chamomile: Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea can help relax the mind and prepare you for sleep.

•Valerian root: Valerian root is an herb known for its sedative effects. It can be consumed as a tea or taken in supplement form to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

•Lavender: The soothing scent of lavender has been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep. Try using lavender essential oil in a diffuser or as a pillow spray.

4

Unleash the Benefits of Physical Activity

Regular exercise has numerous benefits for sleep, as it helps regulate circadian rhythms and reduces stress. Consider the following tips to incorporate physical activity into your routine:

• Engage in moderate aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.

•Opt for workouts earlier in the day or afternoon, as exercising too close to bedtime can increase alertness and make it difficult to fall asleep.

• Experiment with relaxation-focused activities like yoga or tai chi, which combine gentle movement with mindfulness, promoting a calm and relaxed state before sleep.

5 Foster a Sleep-Friendly Diet

What you eat and drink can significantly impact your sleep quality. Consider the following dietary tips for promoting better sleep:

•Avoid heavy meals, spicy foods, and large amounts of fluid close to bedtime, as they can disrupt digestion and lead to discomfort during sleep.

•Incorporate sleep-supportive foods into your diet, such as tryptophan-rich foods like turkey, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, which can help increase melatonin production and promote relaxation.

•Stay hydrated throughout the day but reduce fluid intake in the evening to minimize disruptions from nighttime bathroom visits.

The Link Between Poor Sleep and Breast Cancer

Emerging scientific evidence suggests a significant connection between sleep deprivation and breast cancer. Multiple studies have shown that women who consistently experience poor sleep, either due to short sleep duration or disrupted sleep patterns, have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than those who regularly get adequate sleep. Sleep deprivation disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm, affecting the balance of hormones such as melatonin and estrogen.

Melatonin, often called the “sleep hormone,” is crucial in regulating sleep-wake cycles and has antioxidant properties that help protect against cancer. Insufficient sleep can lead to reduced melatonin production, potentially affecting the body’s ability to prevent and repair DNA damage, increasing the risk of breast cancer. Additionally, chronic sleep deprivation can contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation—all known risk factors for breast cancer development.

Breast Thermography for Breast Health Assessments

Incorporating breast thermography as part of your routine breast health assessment offers a safe and effective approach to early detection and monitoring of breast abnormalities. Unlike other imaging modalities, thermography is radiation-free and does not involve X-rays, ensuring a noninvasive, harmless experience. By embracing thermography, you empower yourself with a tool that can detect subtle changes in breast tissue heat patterns, even before physical symptoms or structural abnormalities are visible. Incorporating breast thermography as part of your routine breast health check-up is a proactive step towards safeguarding your well-being.

In a world that often neglects the importance of rest and sleep, incorporating natural remedies into your sleep routine is a powerful act of self-care. It allows you to reconnect with your body’s natural rhythms, fostering a sense of balance, harmony, and vitality. Improving sleep naturally not only enhances the quality of your rest but also has a ripple effect on other aspects of your life.

When you wake up refreshed and rejuvenated, you experience increased energy, improved cognitive function, and a greater ability to cope with daily challenges. Your mood is elevated and your overall mental and emotional well-being are enhanced. Natural remedies often come with additional health benefits, supporting overall well-being. Using natural techniques to improve sleep not only enhances the quality of rest but also has a profound impact on overall health, including breast health.

April Beaman, RDH, CTT, medical thermographer, is certified by the Professional Academy of Clinical Thermology and a professional member of Breast Thermography International. Beaman has worked in the wellness industry for over 17 years and provides medical thermal imaging and wellness support for both women and men. She is the founder of CT Thermography, located in Farmington, with satellite offices in Glastonbury, Hamden, Westport, CT, and Hadley, MA. Connect at 860.415.1150 or CTThermography.com.

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Stop Glorifying Those Long Hours—

Our Bodies Are Designed to Sleep!

By Dr. Zach Moran, ND

Thehuman body is designed to sleep based on circadian rhythms regulated by the sunrise and, in part, the sunset. However, these days our sleeping schedule is based on our lifestyles, leading to a culture of insomniacs trying to supplement their way to a decent night’s sleep.

Our circadian rhythm is based on two cycling hormones: cortisol and melatonin. Melatonin has one main job: to regulate circadian rhythm. It does have some additional antioxidant properties, specifically in the central nervous system, but mostly it is a sleep hormone. Cortisol, on the other hand, works all over the body in various ways. It works as our response to stress, it manages our blood sugar and our environmental awareness, and it dictates our waking response. Both cortisol and melatonin are essential for optimal sleep duration and quality.

Cortisol

Cortisol is meant to be lowest around midnight and highest when waking, between 7–9 am. Our environment largely influences our cortisol cycles because it is our stress hormone. When you are exposed to bright light or loud noises or stimulate your central nervous system with exercise or food, your cortisol level will rise. This evolutionary feature was designed as a protective strategy to avoid any potential dangers. Though our current environments posing far fewer potential threats, we sabotage our nervous system with chronic stressors that elevate our cortisol, like blue light, loud noises, late-night exercise, irregular eating habits, and chronic infection and inflammation— all of which will result in lousy sleeping habits.

Melatonin

Melatonin is the opposite. It is highest around sunset and lowest around sunrise. When we limit light exposure, our melatonin rises. Most people have sufficient melatonin, which is why supplementing additional melatonin rarely makes a significant impact. If it does, it comes with the consequence of

hours of drowsiness the next day. Almost everyone has elevated cortisol levels due to stress and chronic inflammation, however, so instead of supplementing melatonin or another type of sleep aid, reducing cortisol is the best way to optimize sleep.

Lowering Cortisol Levels

Lowering cortisol can be done through supplements and lifestyle modifications. Supplements can provide safe, immediate sleeping improvements, but lifestyle modifications are the best way to repair and maintain circadian rhythms. Magnesium, L-theanine, GABA, glycine, chamomile, lavender, and magnolia can all help to lower cortisol, but I have found phosphatidylserine to be at the top of the list due to its ability to bind and reduce cortisol. The most effective supplementation is a combination that includes phosphatidylserine. So, what’s the permanent fix? Essentially, don’t live an American lifestyle: avoid stimulants and major work stress in the afternoon. Exercise in the morning or midday instead of after work. Have your largest meal early in the day; don’t eat large meals or high-carb/sugary foods at night. Avoid blue light 1–2 hours before going to sleep to down-regulate your evening cortisol. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing techniques, and hot Epsom baths can help reduce cortisol levels. One of the best ways to regulate cortisol and circadian rhythms is to stimulate a rise in cortisol in the morning. You want to get sun exposure and increase your heart rate by going for a walk or exercising within the first 90 minutes of waking. This will help to reset your circadian rhythm. Sleep is pretty easy when you understand it: Regulate your circadian rhythm and reduce cortisol for an optimal night’s sleep. If you find yourself doing everything right but not achieving regular sleeping habits, you should see a functional provider to help you identify an unknown cause, like chronic infections or environmental exposures, which can result in elevated cortisol.

“Most people have sufficient melatonin, which is why supplementing additional melatonin rarely makes a significant impact. If it does, it comes with the consequence of hours of drowsiness the next day.”

—Dr. Zach Moran,

ND

Dr. Zach Moran of Roots Natural Medical Center is a board-certified and licensed naturopathic physician and has completed a medical residency program. He has an extensive research background and specializes in chronic infectious disease and environmental toxicity, which he believes to be at the core of most chronic diseases. Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing foundational root causes of complex chronic diseases. The clinic aims to properly identify, diagnose, and treat patients with unexplained chronic illnesses. Our services areindividualized and patient-focused, as medicine should be. Visit rootsmedicalcenter.com, email info@rootsmedicalcenter.com, or call 860.471.1434 to learn more. See ad on page 27 >

10 Tools for Improving Your Mental Health

By Jake Williams, MA, LPC

In a world that often prioritizes productivity and achievement, we tend to overlook a fundamental aspect of our well-being: mental health.

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of a fastpaced and demanding lifestyle, leaving little room for self-care and emotional nourishment. However, neglecting our mental health can profoundly affect our overall well-being and life satisfaction.

That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the importance of prioritizing our mental well-being. By adopting a proactive approach and embracing simple yet powerful tools, we can foster a healthier mindset and lead a more fulfilling life. Let’s embark on a journey to explore ten key ways to take care of your mental health.

Well-Being Is a Journey That Starts in Your Mind

As we journey through this exercise, remember that your mental health is worthy of care, attention, and dedication. Together, let’s embark on this path of self-discovery and empowerment— unlocking some valuable tools for finding joy, resilience, and profound wellness.

1Fostering Positive Relationships

Various external factors influence our thoughts, behaviors, and experiences—making it essential to nurture our inner world. One significant external factor that profoundly affects our mental well-being is the relationships we cultivate. Nurturing positive and meaningful connections can have a transformative effect on our mental health. When we surround ourselves with individuals who uplift and support us, we create an environment conducive to emotional growth and resilience.

To foster these positive relationships, it’s essential to cultivate open and honest communication. By sharing our thoughts and feelings authentically, we build trust and deepen our connections. Establishing boundaries allows us to protect our emotional wellness and maintain healthy dynamics. Investing time and energy in nurturing these

relationships through shared activities, active listening, and providing support creates a sense of belonging and amplifies feelings of happiness. Moreover, these healthy relationships act as a buffer against life’s challenges. When we have a supportive network, we gain emotional support, encouragement, and reassurance during difficult times. Surrounding ourselves with people who genuinely care for our well-being enhances our resilience and provides a foundation for mental wellness.

2 Identifying Toxic Relationships

Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals is vital for your mental well-being. Unfortunately, toxic relationships can have a detrimental impact on your mental health.

Take a closer look at your relationships and evaluate whether they contribute positively to your life. If you notice patterns of manipulation, emotional abuse, or constant negativity, it may be time to distance yourself from those toxic connections. Instead, surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you, fostering an environment that encourages personal growth and emotional wellness.

3 Taking Note of Negative Behaviors

Self-awareness is a powerful tool for maintaining good mental health. Take note of your negative behaviors and thought patterns.

Are you engaging in self-sabotaging habits or allowing negative self-talk to consume your mind?

Identifying such negative behaviors is the first step towards addressing and replacing them with more positive and constructive alternatives. Professional guidance, which we’ll explore later, can help you navigate challenging emotional patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

4 Engaging in Activities You Enjoy

Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment is a fundamental aspect of self-care. Dedicate time to pursue your passions, hobbies, and interests.

“Nurturing positive and meaningful connections can have a transformative effect on our mental health. When we surround ourselves with individuals who uplift and support us, we create an environment conducive to emotional growth and resilience.”

—Jake Williams, MA, LPC

Whether painting, dancing, gardening, or playing an instrument, immersing yourself in activities you enjoy provides a healthy escape from stressors and promotes a sense of accomplishment and happiness.

Prioritize these activities and make them an integral part of your routine to maintain a positive mental state.

5 Identifying and Dealing with Stress

In the journey of life, stress is an unavoidable companion. It seeps into our days and challenges our mental well-being. However, managing stress effectively is crucial to maintaining a healthy mind and finding balance in the chaos.

Stress management requires us to first identify the sources of stress in our lives. By clarifying what triggers our stress responses, we can develop coping mechanisms that resonate with our unique needs and preferences.

One powerful approach to managing stress is through the practice of mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Activities such as deep breathing exercises and meditation can help us find moments of calm amidst the storm, allowing us to reconnect with ourselves and cultivate inner peace.

In addition to these practices, setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks, and establishing boundaries can alleviate stress and prevent burnout. By finding a balance between ambition and self-care, we can navigate the demands of life more effectively, reducing the burden of stress on our mental well-being.

6 Valuing Yourself

Self-worth and self-esteem play vital roles in maintaining good mental health. Take time to recognize and appreciate your strengths, accomplishments, and unique qualities. Practice self-compassion and challenge negative self-perceptions by focusing on your positive attributes. Surround yourself with positive affirmations and engage in activities that boost your confidence.

Building a strong sense of self-worth enables you to navigate challenges with resilience and make healthier choices for your well-being.

7 Journaling

Journaling is a powerful therapeutic tool for introspection and self-reflection.

Set aside time to write down your thoughts, emotions, and experiences each day. Journaling allows you to process and express your feelings, gain insights into your patterns and behaviors, and track your personal growth. It provides a safe space to unload your burdens and gain clarity.

Experiment with different journaling techniques—such as gratitude journaling or stream-of-consciousness writing—to find what resonates with you.

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8 Taking Care of Your Body

The mind and body are interconnected. Taking care of your physical health positively impacts your mental well-being. Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated and limit your intake of processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

Regular exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves your mood. Find physical activities you enjoy, whether going for a walk, practicing yoga, or playing a sport. Prioritizing your physical health not only enhances your mental well-being but also increases your energy levels and resilience.

9 Practicing Self-Care and Self-Compassion

Self-care and self-compassion are vital for maintaining good mental health. Prioritize activities that promote relaxation, self-nurturing, and rejuvenation. This can include taking regular breaks, engaging in mindfulness practices, practicing self-compassionate self-talk, or engaging in self-care rituals such as taking baths or engaging in hobbies.

Set boundaries with others and learn to say no when necessary. Remember that it’s okay to prioritize your needs and take time for yourself without guilt.

Treating yourself with kindness and compassion cultivates a positive relationship with yourself, which in turn supports your mental well-being.

10

Getting Professional Help

It’s also okay to ask for help.

Sometimes, professional help is necessary to address and manage mental health challenges effectively. Therapy, such as psychotherapy or behavioral therapy, provides a supportive, confidential space to explore and understand your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. A trained therapist can help you develop coping strategies, improve communication skills and work through underlying issues.

Neurofeedback therapy is a noninvasive technique that uses real-time feedback to train your brain for optimal functioning. Research from Psychology Today indicates that it can be profoundly helpful for conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

To solve a problem, it’s important to acknowledge its existence so we can begin our work toward acceptance. If you’re ready to take the next step in your treatment or the treatment of a loved one, please contact us to schedule a free consultation.

We’re here to help.

Jake Williams, MA, LPC is an experienced therapist, neurofeedback provider, and cat lover. He has dedicated his life to helping people resolve traumatic experiences and overcome challenges created by focus or anxiety. See ad on Back Cover >

Iwantto personally thank you for being a mom. You’re doing the hardest job in the world, and you are excelling at it—even on days when it feels like you’re not. And maybe that day is today.

As mothers, we put ourselves last in almost every category. Last to get dressed for any occasion, last to sit down for a meal, last to buy ourselves anything new, and last to feel seen or heard. We have mastered the art of doing it all with unlimited energy and motivation. We balance and maintain career and family daily and, in some cases, single-handedly manage a handful of kids. We do this for many reasons—mainly because we want our kids to do and be well.

Supermom Syndrome

What is Supermom Syndrome, and how did we get here? Supermom Syndrome is the belief that a mother is capable of perfectly doing all the things for all the people in her life while also caring for herself. Mothers who are working hard to sustain the multiple roles in their lives. Like all of you!

This has made us feel that asking for help is synonymous with admitting defeat. The pressure to keep up with what is depicted on social media and what society tells you it means to be a “good mom.”

We’re trained not to ask for help; we are financially challenged and cannot pay for help; we feel shame when we want or need time away from our children. With today’s busy lifestyle and the ever-growing demands for our time, it’s becoming more difficult to balance life, career, and family. How do you take care of you when there’s not enough time in the day or when you don’t feel like you have the energy? You feel bad for even thinking you need to take time away. Admitting all this is not easy—especially when it comes to admitting it out loud.

Here are three things to start doing today to improve your mental load, decrease the mom guilt and shame, and liberate yourself from “Supermom Syndrome.”

Free Yourself from “Supermom Syndrome”

Let It Go

(I hope you sang that like Elsa from Frozen.) First, let go of the idea that everything must be perfect. Perfection is overrated! Nothing is perfect. It’s acceptable and often necessary to leave the dishes in the sink, the clothes not put away, and the entire house not immaculately cleaned. This also means letting go of what you cannot control. We face the unrealistic and unfair pressure to “have it all.” Permit yourself to leave the task undone.

Let Go of Assumptions

Simply put: Ask for what you want. Be specific about what you want and when you want it. Be your own advocate—nothing is too much or too little. No more supposed to, should have, or would have. Hold a family meeting, including whoever is a part of the family unit. Discussing upcoming responsibilities can be a healthy way to fend off stress and conflict that may arise in a relationship when taking care of children’s needs. This way, you can surround yourself with support. Use this as proof that you are not alone—there are people in your village willing to help, but asking is key.

Embrace Yourself

Be true to yourself and allow yourself to be a work in progress. Repeat after me: “I am doing my best. I am doing my best on the hardest, no good, very bad days—just as I am when everything aligns, and I feel happy.”

You deserve a pat on the back for all the things you’re juggling. Be the first to give yourself that appreciation and validation. Showing ourselves gratitude for the things that make us who we are, allowing for fear and doubt but putting a positive spin on it by rewarding ourselves for our efforts and not judging ourselves so harshly.

For those of you in the trenches: I see you, I applaud you, I support you. We can help by being more honest about our experiences, modeling truths for future generations of mothers, and being kind to ourselves as we figure it out. Remember—a mom who is not struggling looks a lot like a mom who is.

By Mischa Hadaway, LCSW

Mischa Hadaway is a perinatal therapist with over ten years of experience. As the owner of Gentle Mama Counseling, she provides personalized therapy to hopeful, new, and soon-to-be parents. Mischa creates a safe space free of judgment for her clients who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, and guilt. Telehealth and evening appointments available. Call 860.215.4710 and visit gentlemamacounseling.com for more information.

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“Supermom Syndrome is the belief that a mother is capable of perfectly doing all the things for all the people in her life while also caring for herself. Mothers who are working hard to sustain the multiple roles in their lives.

Like all of you!”

—Mischa Hadaway, LCSW

“As a therapist, I have worked with many people during the pandemic, and now, postpandemic. I have met with people who suffered from the virus and those who continue to struggle with “long COVID” or “long haulers.” I have also worked with people who are vaccine injured. These people struggle to manage life and their symptoms, often told that nothing can be done for them.”

Hope, Truth, and Speaking Up When Things Aren’t Right

By Charleen K. Miele, LPC

If there is anything we can all agree on, it’s that the past few years have been a time of confusion, fear, frustration, sadness, and many, many questions. The pandemic changed how we live and even how we view life. We may have lost friends and colleagues due to differing beliefs, but hopefully, we’ve also made new friends as we navigated our journey through these muddy waters.

From the beginning of my journey, I knew something wasn’t right. The fear that was generated and used to push people toward specific decisions and lifestyles caused injury and, in some cases, even death. That may seem like a strong statement, but it has been my experience.

As a therapist, I have worked with many people during the pandemic, and now, post-pandemic. I have met with people who suffered from the virus and those who continue to struggle with “long COVID” or “long haulers.” I have also worked with people who are vaccine injured. These people struggle to manage life and their symptoms, often told that nothing can be done for them.

Frankly, this is just wrong. The stories I’ve heard of loved ones whose family members were alone in the hospital as they passed away, family members denied the right to be with and support their family members and say goodbye, and of course, those who were told “there is no treatment” when they were diagnosed with COVID-19, are tragic.

We know and have known from the beginning that there were many things we could do (not the vaccine) to prevent getting the virus, diminish the symptoms if we did get the virus, and treat the virus if we were infected. Much of this information, however, was kept from us.

The Role of FLCCC

I have been blessed to be aware of and be a part of the FLCCC (Front Line COVID Critical Care) community since the early days of the pandemic. This group comprises many incredible doctors who were treating their patients with repurposed drugs until they were told they could no longer do so. Their response was to leave those jobs and form this community so they could continue to save lives outside of the confines of Western medical hospitals.

Many of these doctors are world-renowned leaders, and they were targeted, persecuted, and falsely accused of harming people when they had statistical proof that their extremely safe protocols were saving lives (visit FLCCC.net to learn more about these protocols). Two of these amazing doctors are Dr. Pierre Kory, MD, and Dr. Paul Marik, MD. These two men have become heroes of mine, and I had the pleasure of meeting and learning from them recently at the FLCCC Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.

Over 400 of us, a mix of doctors, naturopathic doctors, mental health doctors, therapists, other healers, and people from several other professions, gathered to learn and share information. Many who have been affected by the COVID-19 virus, have been vaccine injured, or were treated by these doctors personally or following their COVID protocol gathered to learn about the effects of the spike protein on every aspect of our lives. (The impact of the spike protein is a fascinating topic I will discuss in a future article here, on my website, and on my podcast, which is in the works.)

—Charleen K. Miele, LPC

An important thing to remember is that whether you have had COVID-19, have received any of the COVID-19 “vaccinations,” or have been around people who have, you may have the spike protein in your system. This virus, and, more specifically, the spike protein, has crossed over into every part of our body and is having adverse effects on every system of our bodies. I am learning more about how it has affected peoples’ neurological systems and gut biomes, as well as how it is significantly impacting mental health.

Hope

There is hope. There is treatment (and I don’t mean the dangerous drugs hospitals use that are often causing more harm). There are many doctors out there who are willing and able to help. Obtaining the repurposed drugs shown from the beginning to treat COVID-19 effectively isn’t always easy since pharmacies have been discouraged or forbidden from carrying them. They’re out there, but it takes some legwork to find them.

Most therapists are overloaded with clients and requests for therapy, and I don’t see that letting up any time soon. Anxiety, depression, and suicide, as well as the stressors of fear, isolation, disconnection, and worry, are off the charts. But we know that a healthy lifestyle, sunshine, a healthy diet, connection with others, meditation, prayer, exercise, and, of course, breathwork, are a few of the many ways we can help ourselves.

You are not alone. Reach out for more info or visit my website for articles about the FLCCC. We are in this together—there is hope!

Charleen K. Miele, LPC , is a Licensed Professional Counselor who started her journey as a teacher, church music director, and fitness instructor.

Charleen works with clients both in person and via telehealth and has recently added Trauma Informed Breathwork to her work. She offers her clients the opportunity to experience IFS and/or breathwork through in-person and online sessions and is currently offering group breathwork sessions online and will be hosting workshops and group sessions in person in the new year. Life coaching and spiritual life coaching, including breathwork and IFS work, are also available both as individual sessions and as packages of two, four, or six sessions. Charleen will soon be offering self-paced online courses as well as interactive groups that will meet for a series of weeks and will include lectures, discussions, journaling, and experiential somatic work through breathing and movement. Visit https://www.thesacredselfllc.com/. Contact Charleen at thesacredselfllc@gmail.com or call 860.614.8382. Located at 171 Market Square #102, Newington, CT. See ad on page 27 >

ADAM BREINER, ND DAVID JOHNSTON, DO DAVID BRADY, ND, CCN

A Society of Addiction and Instant Gratification

By Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR

As I get older and reflect, I feel that we, as a society, have been in a very rough place for the last several years. There are societal shifts I feel are going in the wrong direction. There is little room for seeing the goodness all around us due to the current state of our world. I fear we’re being dumbed down by the overuse of technology and some new government regulations that are not in our best interests. We now have a world where we can get high, gamble legally, drink and never be out of touch with the world through the constant use of technology. We are not taught how to calm ourselves, know ourselves, and stay true to our inner knowing. We are becoming an addicted society.

Legalized Everything

In the 1970s, when I was in art school at Boston University, School of Fine Arts, we all smoked pot, drank alcohol, and had fun. The State of Connecticut recently legalized marijuana for personal use and is making a lot of money on tax revenue, which has increased every month since its inception. This is not your friend’s nickel bag from years before. This is medical-grade hybrid marijuana that is so potent that taking more than a small amount can leave the user almost catatonic. Children and pets have accidentally ingested gummies, and there is a huge caution flag up to protect how people store their drugs. City streets reek of pot, as do the people stumbling out of their parked cars.

On the docket this winter, there was consideration in Connecticut legislation to allow bars to stay open until 4 am instead of closing at 3 am. Is that really necessary?

It feels like our government is trying to keep us numbed out and far from feeling our feelings by allowing these addictive substances to be readily available. Don’t even get me started on legalized gambling. Instead of going to a casino, you can now lie in bed and bet your money on almost anything. Where are we headed as a society?

Access to Everything

When I was younger, people with mental distress would, unfortunately, take their own lives by committing suicide. Now, some frustrated people go on shooting rampages and take scores of people with them. There are mass shootings almost every week—so many I can’t remember what happened where. Americans lead the world in these awful, unnecessary, all-too-common events. Is it gun control? Is it mental health? Is it necessary to sell semi-automatic weapons at all to the general public? The age to buy those guns was increased to twenty-one instead of eighteen. But how much does that three-year difference really matter?

The increase in cell phone use and gaming are creating unresponsive children and young adults. It is not coincidental. People of all ages seem to be on their phones or computers constantly. Children have busy parents who are on the internet and not interacting with their kids. People walk their dogs and talk on the phone, sometimes dragging the dog along because they’re simply not paying attention.

I was recently at a dinner. When we were served the soup, two younger people at the table hopped on their phones as if ten minutes were too long to be without contact. Is sitting and chatting with people at the dinner table passe? Is live conversation dead?

What do we, the conscious, thinking people, do to safeguard ourselves, the lives of our families and pets, and the neighborhoods in which we live? The world has become more unsafe and much scarier. Do we lock ourselves away or find new ways to “be”? How do we stay in touch with ourselves and stay sane in this insane world? Where would the world be if we got and stayed in touch with our feelings and how we are motivated?

Addiction to Everything

For four years in the 90s, I studied with a leading expert on addiction—Dr. Anne Wilson-Schaef, a clinical psychologist with sixteen internationally best-selling books. Loosely phrased, addiction is “the thing you do to take you away from feeling your feelings.” We all need to name our weak

“People of all ages seem to be on their phones or computers constantly.

Children have busy parents who are on the internet and not interacting with their kids.”

—Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, CAR

spots. It could be alcohol, drugs, exercising, eating, reading, shopping incessantly, using love and relationships to mask feelings of inadequacy—you name it, it is your addictive process.

After writing over eighteen books and running “Living in Process” training all over the world, Dr. Wilson-Schaef helped open my eyes to the motivations behind my behaviors. I have changed many things for myself over the years. Most recently, I go to sleep listening to a guided meditation instead of watching the news or listening to a talk show host’s monologue. I feel calmer, happier, and more at peace. I fall asleep quickly and sleep more deeply.

I only use a landline for my Rolfing® office and my personal phone. My cell phone is reserved for off-site calls only. As I work with people in person all day and not in front of a computer, I do check for necessary communications a few times a day—either client inquiries or personal matters. In other words, I stay in touch—but not every single moment of the day. At my dinner table, there are no cell phones present. The people there are my sole interest—no text can replace that personal connection.

Breaking Free

About five years ago, I stopped drinking alcohol of any kind. I was never a big drinker, and it was a conscious choice to be clear-headed and on my best game. It is amazing to step out of that social drinking culture and witness people getting louder and more ridiculous as they drink. It took me a long time to be content and not need the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs to enjoy myself. Being fully present is the best gift I can give to myself and those around me.

I do struggle with my relationship with sugar as I go in and out of not having it for months, then wanting it every day. This past April, for the second time in my recent life, I had just enough chocolate and/or sugar to give me a dizzying, nauseous headache that put me in bed. Is that how I want to live? Was my body telling me something about my consumption? I would be a fool not to listen.

In terms of my Rolfing® practice, there is no phone in my office, only down the hall in my waiting room. I give my undivided attention to my clients. It is understood that cell phones are to be turned off during our sessions. The work we do is personal and informative. So many of my clients have very little body awareness, so after we do the hands-on work, I teach my clients to embody and use that newly explored body segment in everyday experience. They learn how to sit, walk, stand, and sleep comfortably. Imagine the disruption with phones ringing or buzzing! Seeing my clients unfold and feel better through the ten sessions keeps me working after 42 years! We are totally present to one another.

Another critical factor in achieving inner focus is navigating the balance of the sympathetic and

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parasympathetic nervous systems. In lay terms, the sympathetic nervous system is what gets you fired up when you get cut off in your car. At first, you scream, “You jerk! You ******!”. The job of the parasympathetic nervous system is to rise up, catch the high level of upset and lower it back down to calm and manageable levels. Some of what strengthens the parasympathetic nervous system are bodywork, meditation, mild exercise, deep breathing techniques, relaxing in nature, and yoga. With our world becoming more stressful and the average person not balancing their nervous system, people cannot regulate themselves properly, which can manifest in extreme ways.

What we need on a societal level is change. Change geared toward creating balance. The insidious use of technology that borders on addiction, fast food that lacks high nutritional value, resulting in more digestive cancers now being found earlier in younger people, mind-numbing drugs and alcohol, and incessant media input all dumb us down.

I encourage you to begin to decipher for yourself what your challenges are to stay present to your feelings and your needs. Turn off the TV and disengage from your cell phone and social media for periods of time. Get great bodywork and learn techniques for deep breathing and meditation. Encourage your children to speak more about what’s happening in their world, teach them to do yoga, take family walks in nature, explore your neighborhood, and personalize your community. Look into stress-relieving practices to self-soothe—do not self-medicate.

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If we leave our sanity to the powers that be, we would all be more numbed out, perhaps growing more disgruntled and becoming increasingly outraged. Dr. Wilson-Schaef wrote the best-selling book When Society Becomes an Addict in 1987, and I feel it is still very relevant. Guide yourself to a healthier you, live fully, and follow your quieted, calmed mind that leads you to the joy and simple pleasures of a well-lived life. Be your own advocate and navigate yourself into a better world instead of falling victim to what our society is pushing on us. Be the change—focus inward and master yourself.

Sharon Sklar is in her 42nd year of private practice as a Certified Advanced Rolfer and has been voted one of Natural Nutmeg’s 10Best Bodyworkers for the last four years.

How Melatonin and Proper Lighting Will Help You Sleep Better

By Dr. Alyssa DeSena, ND

Not only is sleep important for memory and learning, but it’s a great way to support the immune system and regulate emotions. Not getting enough sleep or disruption in sleep patterns will increase your risk of heart disease, metabolic diseases like diabetes, and cognitive disease. Getting enough sleep is also the best way to increase your concentration throughout the day.

Melatonin and Cortisol

The body follows a 24-hour cycle called the circadian rhythm regulated by melatonin and cortisol. Cortisol rises in the morning to help wake us up and get ready for the day ahead while the body naturally releases melatonin at night to get us ready for sleep. Throughout the day melatonin levels will stay low while cortisol levels are elevated, until the evening when they switch. The circadian rhythm is very consistent, which is why we tend to feel tired at about the same time each night; this is why keeping a regular sleep schedule is a great way to support overall energy levels and quality of sleep.

Since we want melatonin to rise in the evenings, it makes sense that supporting its production at night is a great place to improve our sleep. Melatonin release is blocked by exposure to light—the body won’t release melatonin during the day because of this exposure. At night, the body can’t tell the difference between the type of light we’re being exposed to—the sun’s light, or synthetic LEDs. This is why limiting exposure to synthetic blue light (TV, computers, overhead light) at night

will help with the natural rise of melatonin. This may mean using low-light lamps instead of bright overhead lights at night.

Certain foods contain melatonin and have been shown to improve sleep quality. Cherries, walnuts, and pistachios are some of the most common foods containing melatonin., Eating these foods before bed can be helpful due to their melatonin and high fat content to keep blood sugar stable throughout the night (another cause of poor sleep!)

Blue Light and No Light

Blue light, a certain wavelength of light, has been shown to interfere with the release of melatonin, and we are exposed to blue light in a variety of ways, but mostly through phones, tablets, computers, and televisions. Screen time at night can have a major impact on sleep by blocking the release of melatonin. Stop using technology at least one hour before bed to help support the natural rise in melatonin. If necessary, try out blue light-blocking glasses or a blue light filter on your computer or phone when on screens after dark. Sleeping in complete darkness is best. When getting into bed, hold a hand outstretched in front; if fingers can be seen, the room is likely too light for sleep. Try out blackout curtains or covering up some of the lights in the room are ways to offset this.

If, despite these, you’re still finding trouble with sleep, consider blood sugar imbalances, stress, anxiety, nutritional deficiencies, and sleep apnea. Working with a naturopathic doctor is a great way to get a jumpstart on improved energy and prevent illness from taking hold due to poor-quality sleep.

“Stop using technology at least one hour before bed to help support the natural rise in melatonin. If necessary, try out blue light-blocking glasses or a blue light fi lter on your computer or phone when on screens after dark.”

Dr. Alyssa DeSena is a CT-licensed Naturopathic Doctor at Soleil Acupuncture + Naturopathic Wellness in Hamden, CT. Growing up, she always struggled with digestive issues and pain with her period, which gradually worsened. Naturopathic medicine allowed her to reach the root cause instead of covering up symptoms with medications or ignoring them. Her passion for hormone and digestive health came from her personal history of struggles and hearing stories of many women experiencing the same problems she encountered. She is located at 2661 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT. Call 203.871.3262 or email admin@soleilholistic.com.

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—Dr. Alyssa DeSena, ND

Liberate Yourself from Employment Shackles— Discover the Freedom of Work Independence

By Ray Beyor

Owning

my work and embracing the value of my income has been a challenging journey. I’ve had to unlearn deeply ingrained lessons and remind myself that I deserve more than just meeting expectations—I deserve to exceed them. One of my greatest struggles to overcome has been placing others’ opinions above my own, constantly striving to please everyone instead of expressing myself in my unique way.

Work Doesn’t Have to Be a Four-Letter Word

The word “work” evokes a deep sense of dread in many of us, as explored by Jeremy Seabrook in his article, “The Language of Labouring Reveals Its Tortured Roots,” published in The Guardian. Seabrook highlights the historical connection between work and persecution, evident in the Gothic word wrikan, as well as the definition of work as “toil,” which conveys the notions of fighting and struggling.

It wasn’t until 2015, when my virtual bookkeeping business began to flourish, that I finally started feeling a sense of worthiness and strength. The ability to carve my own path, shielded from the onslaught of opinions disguised as facts that often accompanied traditional workplaces, allowed me to take charge and be the decision-maker.

Be Your Own Boss— Even if You Already Have One

Now, as I embark on my journey as a Life Coach, I remain acutely aware of the perils I faced in office environments. There, the voices of others dictated how I should be, what I should do, and when and where I should do it. Even today, I find myself falling into the habit of following rather than confidently standing in my own power.

Just yesterday, I unconsciously succumbed to the pressure of writing this article in a manner that didn’t align with my natural style. Throughout the process, I felt a growing sense of annoyance, yet I persisted despite the misfit. It wasn’t until this morning, during my meditation session, that I allowed myself to truly listen to those feelings. They served as a reminder that I was falling into the same trap once again— prioritizing the voices of others over my own. I had forgotten the true purpose of my writing, drowned out by someone else’s opinions dictating what they believed I should write.

Discovering independence within your work sets off a profound chain reaction, unlocking new and exhilarating dimensions in every aspect of life. In my journey, taking the leap to start my own business in 2012 became the catalyst for transformative experiences. It empowered me to achieve physical fitness, cultivate a chosen family, and delve into activities I truly loved. The freedom of entrepreneurship allowed me to explore realms previously unattainable while operating under the rules of a traditional employer. Back then, I couldn’t have fathomed the extent of my accomplishments by simply following my own guidance instead of adhering to someone else’s playbook.

Work no longer feels like a constant struggle; it can be approached in a way that aligns with your inner wisdom. Let me be your guide in honing the invaluable skill of tuning in to the resounding voice within, eager to break free from its limitations and lead you toward a life overflowing with fulfillment and joy.

If you’re stuck in a job that no longer serves you, don’t hesitate to reach out. I offer transformative workshops and one-to-one coaching sessions designed to help you navigate your options and embrace a life of empowerment. Sign up for my free resources and stay informed about upcoming events by visiting: www.raylifecoaching.com/free-resources.

Ray Beyor, owner of RAY Life Coaching, provides her clients with resources and practices that clarify their values, set steps toward their purpose, and master confidence while facing fears with patience, compassion, and accountability. Ray’s training in attachment theory, codependency, yoga, meditation, polyamory, consent work, dance, and astrology is used to guide her clients into their authentic and abundant selves. To schedule a free call or learn more, please visit www.reneebeyor.com.

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“Discovering independence within your work sets off a profound chain reaction, unlocking new and exhilarating dimensions in every aspect of life.”

—Ray Beyor

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Local Experts In and Around Connecticut

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture of Greater Hartford Stan Baker, LAC West Hartford, CT 860.836.1068

acupuncturestanbaker.com

AUTISM COACH

Lisa Candera, CLC lisa@theautismmomcoach.com theautismmomcoach.com

The Autism Mom Coach is a 1:1 coaching program founded by Lisa Candera, a full-time single mother to a teenager with autism. Lisa also hosts a podcast, The Autism Mom Coach, where she shares practical, actionable tips to support parents raising a child with autism. Lisa is currently accepting applications for 1:1 clients and offers a free consultation.

BREATHWORK

The Sacred Self, LLC

Charleen K. Miele, LPC Newington, CT • 860.614.8382 thesacredselfllc@gmail.com thesacredselfllc.com

Licensed Professional Counselor (IFS level 2 trained); Trauma Informed Breathwork Facilitator; Life, Spiritual Life, and Wellness Coach. Somatically release stored trauma and foster healing as you discover your sacred self within.

CBD STORE

Natural Harmony

100% Organic & Vegan CBD Products

860.992.7213

naturalharmony.life

Nature’s Gi s

304 W Main St., Avon, CT • 860.995.4444 naturesgi s-usa.com/

Nature’s Gifts is an independently owned, family run CBD Store in Avon, CT. Stress, sleep, and pain solutions available. Our knowledgeable staff will happily guide you through our offerings to find the perfect CBD product for your needs. Don’t pay too much for your CBD—stop in, say hello, and let us help you feel like you again.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

Vitalized Performance Group

Glastonbury, CT • 860.800.6775

VPGwaves.com

VPG Waves is a holistic practice that offers acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, naturopathic medicine, and GAINSWave therapy. We offer affordable programs that integrate holistic modalities to treat, prevent, and heal the root cause of our patients’/clients’ ailments. Handicap accessible.

ENERGY HEALING

Jacqueline M Kane

Low Back Pain Specialist and Master Energy Healer

111 Main St., Collinsville, CT 06019 860.307.0232

jacqueline@jacquelinemkane.com jacquelinemkane.com

Jacqueline facilitates deep healing of trauma, low back pain, and chronic conditions tied to limiting mindsets impacting health and wealth. Clients’ proven results are reclaimed energy, moving freely and powerfully, and manifesting their goals aligned with soul purpose. If you’re ready to reach your health and wealth goals, visit jacquelinemkane.com.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Dana Mascalo CFP®, RLP®, AAMS®, C(k)P® Managing Partner, TrinityPoint Wealth Milford, CT • 203.693.8521 Fax: 203.693.8524 dana@trinitypointwealth.com

HOLISTIC COUNSELING

James Osborne, MS, LPC, BCPC ProNatural Physicians Group, LLC Berlin, CT • 860.829.0707 pronaturalphysicians.com

James Osborne is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and a Fellow in the American Psychotherapy Association with over 40 years of clinical experience.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

Dr. Mark A. Breiner, DDS, FAGD, FIAOMT Fairfield, CT • 203.371.0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com

A recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry, Dr. Breiner treats patients for a myriad of dental concerns including sleep breathing disorders, TMD, mercury toxicity, and hidden infections from cavitations and root canals.

“If you have unexplained symptoms that won’t go away, the answer could be in your mouth.”

Dr. Steven F Hinchey, DMD South Glastonbury • 860.633.6518 drhinch@agd.org • dochincheydmd.com

Thank you to our wonderful patients who trust our team to care for their improved oral health. Please let your family and friends know that a healthy, disease-free mouth will help your overall health. It is all connected—the mouth and the body. And we can help you get there.

HOMEOPATHY

Abby Beale, CCH RSHom(NA) Homeopathy Healings

HomeopathyHealings@gmail.com

HomeopathyHealings.com • 413.426.1024

Want to get to the root cause of your chronic symptoms? Homeopathy can relieve the symptoms of depression, anxiety, women’s issues, headaches, digestive troubles, child behavior problems, and so much more. Appointments possible over Zoom and Skype.

HYPNOSIS

Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH Middletown, CT • 860.704.9054 mprousseau@sbcglobal.net micheleprousseau.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Emerald City Health Associates, LLC Telehealth • 203.693.1932 emeraldcityhealth.com drcorastover@protonmail.com

Serving people with autoimmunity, digestive, and mind-body concerns. Be heard! Start your journey to health and well-being with natural changes.

INTEGRATED MEDICINE

Tamara Sachs, MD

Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St., New Milford CT 860.354.3304 • tsachsmd.com

Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by uncovering and correcting the underlying root causes of your health concerns while respecting the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She comprehensively and thoughtfully creates personalized plans explaining why and how each area of your healing will be addressed.

INTERIOR DESIGN

CMT Design Group

Carolyn Tierney • Simsbury, CT 929.390.1742 • carolyntierney.com info@carolyntierney.com

CMT Design Group integrates beautiful design and interior style with health and wellness principles that matter to your family’s well-being. With over 20 years of experience focused on residential interior design and healthy, holistic living, our depth of industry knowledge enables us to create functional and stunning modern spaces where your family can thrive.

MASSAGE THERAPY

Abundant Health Massage Therapy & Wellness

Farmington, CT • 860.778.0315 abundanthealthct.com

Kristina Mozzicato is Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork by the NCBTMB and has been practicing massage for the past 12 years. She provides professional, therapeutic, customized sessions. In addition to massage, she offers cupping, medicupping, body contouring, Himalayan salt stone massage, and Reiki sessions. Convenient online booking.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Dr. Adam Breiner, ND

Fairfield, CT • 203.371.8258

WholeBodyMed.com

Focusing on brain health and Lyme disease, Dr. Adam Breiner offers cutting-edge therapies that include hyperbaric oxygen, neurocognitive therapies, including sophisticated brain-imaging equipment to evaluate brain injuries and brainwave patterns associated with metabolic imbalances, infections, and allergies. Conditions treated include concussions, TBI, stroke, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.

Naturopathic & Acupuncture

Health Center

Dr. Marie Mammone, Dr. Renee Mammone, NDs, John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 860.529.1200 • www.NAHcenter.com

Roots Natural Medical Center

106 Route 66 East • Columbia, CT 06237 860.471.1434 • info@rootsmedicalcenter.com rootsmedicalcenter.com

Roots is a Naturopathic Medicinal Center that focuses on addressing foundational root causes to complex chronic disease. The goal of the clinic is to properly identify, diagnose and treat patients with unexplained chronic illnesses. Our services are individualized, and patient focused, as medicine should be.

Soleil Acupuncture and Naturopathic Wellness

2661 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT 203.871.3262 • admin@soleilholistic.com soleilholistic.com

Soleil is a holistic clinic specializing in integrative and functional medicine. We are pleased to offer IV and IM nutrient therapy, craniosacral therapy, and general and facial acupuncture, with our roots in naturopathic medicine. We are passionate about using our tools to get our patients feeling their best!

TREATING:

• Medical Weight Control

• Allergies

• Diabetes

• Thyroid

• Irritable Bowel

• IV Vitamins

• Anti-Aging Medicine

• Chronic Fatigue/ Fibromyalgia

• Hormonal Health

Dr. Henry Sobo

PRP For Joints/Hair Restoration CALL

• Stem Cells

Optimal

• Sessions/Workshops for Adults & Children, Study Groups

• Registered Yoga Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Mentor

• Certified Shamanic & Shapeshifting Practitioner

• Energy Healing for People or Animals, Clearings

• Certified Hypnotherapist & Regressionist

• Readings, Spirit Detachment, Soul Retrieval

• International Retreats & Cruises: Shamanic, Yoga, Psychic & Custom

• CT Justice of the Peace, Host/Producer "The Sacred Journey" TV Show

Phone, Zoom, Skype

Vis Wellness Center, LLC

Dr. Nicole Klughers, ND, PharmD, MSAc

Rocky Hill, CT & Virtual Visits (234) 2-ACU-DOC hello@drnicoleklughers.com DrNicoleKlughers.com

West Hartford

Naturopathic Medicine

Frank Aieta, ND

301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT 860.232.9662 • www.DRAIETA.com

NEUROFEEDBACK

Jake Williams, MA, LPC Rocky Hill, CT • 860.208.6964 CT Neurohealth.com

Jake is an experienced therapist, neurofeedback provider, and cat lover. He has dedicated his life to helping people resolve traumatic experiences and overcome challenges created by focus or anxiety.

NUTRITION

Erika Dworkin, BCHN®

Certified in Holistic Nutrition

Vitathena Wellness

South Glastonbury, CT • 860.646.8178 edworkin@vitathena.com • vitathena.com

Through education, Erika empowers her customers to make the decisions that best enable them to maximize their well-being and longevity. She offers private nutrition consultations and speaks regularly about various health topics.

Grant’s Nutrition & Wellness

Jane Grant, RD CD-N Berlin, CT • 860.357.2282 grantj@grantsnutrition.com grantsnutrition.com

Jane is trained in integrative and functional nutrition utilizing a personalized, holistic approach to chronic disease and weight management. Integrative and functional nutrition combines the very best of modern science, clinical wisdom, and integrative therapies to address the root cause of disease and promote abundant health.

ORGANIC PRODUCT CO.

Farm to Bath

South Glastonbury, CT, and Virtual 860.266.5682 • info@farmtobath.com farmtobath.com

Brenda Sullivan, herbalist and maker of herbal products, uses lavender, one of her primary crops, to make natural soaps, soothing salves, aromatic oils and more. She loves knowing the medicinal benefits of herbs, because it ensures her recipes are made with only the best ingredients.

PHYSICIANS, M.D.

Optimal Health Medical, LLC

Henry C. Sobo, M.D. 111 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, CT 06905 203.348.8805 • www.drsobo.com

Member, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Board Certified in obesity medicine, Dr. Sobo believes that the best of both medical and nutritional approaches to medical care is more effective than either approach alone. Dr. Sobo offers eight loss programs, IV vitamins, allergy evaluation and desensitization, stem cell treatments, bioidentical hormone replacement, PRP, and more.

REFLEXOLOGY Holistic

Hands

Tara Cornish, Specializing in Reflexology, Reiki, Aromatouch & Human Energy Scans Torrington, Bantam, & Farmington, CT 860.921.8307 • HolisticHandsCT.com

Tara Cornish is an IIR Certified Reflexologist and Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher since 2005. She also offers reflexology lymph drainage and energyfield measurement. These therapies are non-invasive and safe. Tara has seen amazing benefits using holistic approaches to help heal, relax, renew, and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.

PSYCHIC/MEDIUM

Intuitive Counseling Holistic Spa

Agnes Daddona • 860.941.2667 Avon, CT • AgnesDaddona.com Agnes@intuitivecounselingllc.com

Agnes Daddona is one of the best Psychic/Mediums in New England. She is also a Counselor, Healer, and Spiritual Teacher. For more than 20 years, Agnes has worked with thousands of people across the world in both English and Polish. Her Holistic Spa in Avon, CT, is a one-stop shop and offers high vibrational healing for the mind, body, and soul.

ROLFING®

Rolfing®—The Art and Science of Body Change

Sharon Sklar, BFA, LMT, Cert. Adv. Rolfer West Hartford • 860.561.4337 sharonsklarrolfing.com

Rolfing®—The Art and Science of Body Change. A dynamic 10-session bodywork series that eases pain, improves movement, and restructures your body when you feel “out of whack.” A hands-on and educational approach that establishes order and balance after life’s injuries, stresses, and accidents. Since 1981.

HAPPENINGS JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2023

Wednesdays, July 12, August 9, and September 13

Psychic/Spiritual Development , 6:30–8:30pm, $25 ($20 for elders over 65 and veterans) The Psychic/Spiritual Development Monthly Study Group Is meeting in-person again! (as well as Zoom). New members welcome! There is a strong connection between spiritual growth and psychic development. Every session starts with a positive, light-filling exercise and includes topics such as palmistry, oracle cards, pendulums, remote viewing, and spirit guides. Reclaim your natural gifts, assist others, and live your life more joyfully! We will meet on the second Wednesday of every month, unless otherwise noted.

Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200. Join our email list and find detailed descriptions at thesacredjourney.biz

The Sacred Journey, 29 Davis Road, Burlington, CT 06013. Preregistration required to save your in-person spot: 860.675.9706

Wednesdays, July 19, August 16, and September 20

Shamanism, 6:30–8:30pm, $25 ($20 for elders over 65 and veterans)

The Shamanism Monthly Study Group is meeting in-person again (as well as via Zoom)! New members are welcome; no experience needed! In this group, you will develop an understanding of cross-cultural shamanism, the importance of ceremony, and become adept at journeying into non-ordinary reality. You will work with animal allies and spirit helpers, ancestors, and elemental energies. All dedicated and compassionate people who wish to initiate positive change in the world are invited. We will meet on the third Wednesday of every month, unless otherwise noted.

Joyce St. Germaine, M. Ed., CHt., RYT-200. Join our email list and find detailed descriptions at thesacredjourney.biz

The Sacred Journey, 29 Davis Road, Burlington, CT 06013. Preregistration required to save your in-person spot: 860.675.9706

Oct

12–15, 2023

The Energy Medicine Solution $897 and up During this Energy Medicine Solution Retreat, we will uncover your unconscious limiting story that is keeping you stuck in these areas: health, wealth, relationships, and the ability to create your soulaligned life. You will experience energetic clearing processes so that you can leave feeling excited to create the life that you desire on your terms.

Double Tree Hilton Hotel, Bristol, CT Sign Up at bit.ly/EnergyRetreat2023

SPAS/WELLNESS CENTERS

Imagine Float

290 West Main St., Avon 860.255.7771 • imaginefloat.com

THERMOGRAPHY

April Beaman, RDH, CTT

CT Thermography

Farmington and Glastonbury, CT 860.415.1150 • ctthermography.com

CT thermography specializes in medical thermal imaging. Breast thermography is a compression and radiation-free screening tool that’s used to monitor breast health to detect physiological changes that may be early warning signs of a disease process. As a Certified Thermographic Technician, I help empower women to take a proactive approach following their thermography screening for optimal breast health.

YOGA STUDIO

Sacred Rivers Yoga

East Hartford, CT • 860.657.9545 sacredriversyoga.com

Paula Scopino, E-RYT 500-Hour, C-IAYT, CT Licensed LMT, YACEP, is the owner/director of Sacred Rivers Yoga and Allied Health Therapies and “Sacred Rivers Yoga for Every Body,” a Yoga Alliance 200- and 500-hour registered school, as well as a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga herapy.)

Have a Happening?

www.naturalnutmeg.com

Do you have an event (virtual or live) that you want Natural Nutmeg readers to know about? Reach out to us at calendar@naturalnutmeg.com for information on listing your event and sponsorships. Event listings are in print and online. We also accept classified listings.