While I really like this month’s feature article, “The Authentic Lifestyle: Learning To Realign With Our True Selves,” I’m having a hard time embracing all of it. First, I know I want to live with less noise and distraction and more balance, less conflict and more harmony. I think this is a path to more authenticity. Where I get stuck is in the very first paragraph: “Instead of . . . equating success with monetary gain or accomplishments, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and align our choices with personal values.”
I just experienced an occurrence of “stuckness” with my son, who starts university this fall. He doesn’t know what he wants to do, so he’ll be entering with an undecided major. We went through an exercise of looking at all the majors offered—I requested he do this to help him choose classes—and he identified all the ones that piqued his interest. I didn’t say anything, but think it’s likely that some of his choices will be replaced by artificial intelligence and/or come with low salaries. So now I feel like a jerk for “equating success with monetary gain.” Still, I know financial stability is a personal value shared by millions around the world. I suspect this is a hang-up I need to explore further.
It’s easy to look externally for signs of success. Our society has some clear indicators—money, influence, and title, for starters. If I determine success by alignment with my personal values, where are the accolades? Who will pat me on the back? And what if I’m wrong? How will I know I’m wrong? And can I even be wrong?
Living authentically is hard for those of us who like an external rating system. But doing so has a butterfly effect, inspiring those around you to live authentically too. As Sahara Rose Ketabi tells us, “You become the permission slip they didn’t know they needed.”
Wishing you greater discovery and alignment with your values and permission this August,
Shannon
Warner Provides Craniosacral Therapy in Plaza Midwood
Catherine Warner, CEO of Hold Space Healing, and a Certified Somatic Anxiety Coach, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Licensed Integrative Bodywork Specialist, provides Craniosacral Therapy (CST) inside Wise Wolf Wellness in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood of Charlotte. CST is a bodywork therapy that works with the cranium, sacrum and other bony landmarks of the body to allow the cerebral spinal fluid to flow more freely to help regulate the nervous system and foster a deeper restive state that cannot normally be reached on a daily basis, promoting the body’s natural ability to self-heal.
Benefits include unwinding of unconscious mental and emotional and physical patterns, more efficient responses to internal and external worlds, easier ability to self-regulate, reduced physical pain, restoration of musculoskeletal range of motion and recovery of an embodied and confident sense of self.
CST, an excellent resource for those in trauma therapy, can be booked as often as every week when an issue is particularly activated or to focus on chronic ones. Otherwise, most people find the most benefit doing monthly maintenance sessions.
Warner is also a Certified Ayurvedic Wellness Educator and both a reiki practitioner and neurofeedback practitioner. Her specialties are CST for TMJ disorder as it relates to the nervous system, mental health, digestive disorders, gynecological irregularities and musculoskeletal conditions of the head and neck.
Location: 1208 The Plaza, Charlotte. Free parking lot off Commonwealth Ave. behind the building. To schedule a complimentary discovery call, for more information or to make an appointment, call 704-750-5051, email Catherine.HoldSpace@gmail.com or visit HoldSpace-Healing.com. See ad, page 23.
If You Are Reading This, So Are Your Potential Customers.
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Catherine Warner
New MetaPhysician Now Practices in Charlotte
Kamau Kokayi, a physician who has practiced holistic primary care, addressing all health conditions and chronic conditions, for 35-plus years in New York and in Los Angeles, now has a Charlotte base at 726 East Boulevard. After getting involved in holistic medicine while attending the Yale School of Medicine in the 1980s—including writing his thesis on physics and medicine and the role of consciousness in determining health outcomes, as well as the science of bioenergetics and its relationship to acupuncture—he moved through his family practice residency while concurrently studying homeopathy, physics and other cultural expressions of healing and health care.
As a MetaPhysician, he appreciates the non-physical and non-biochemical parts of us. Dr. Kokayi shares “Science acknowledges the bioenergetic field that we and the cells of our body all swim in, and the consciousness that connects us to God, that indeed an aspect of this Divine Consciousness, dwells within each one of us, and can certainly be employed to help us heal beyond a pharmaceutical paradigm.” He adds, “While we can still do traditional allopathic diagnostics, there is a level of energy matter organization beyond the cells and organs, that can be engaged, to bring about fundamental changes in the human being as a whole.”
“As the world becomes ‘smaller’, the cultural contributions in the health arena, of humans from around the world, must be acknowledged. The Consciousness of the Heart must influence the mind so that we become more human and reintegrate ourselves with nature and patterns of mind that are not self-destructive, bringing harm to others and the Earth’s inhabitants as well. The healing way forward is to raise our vibration/consciousness.”
To make an appointment, call 310-713-5764. For an introductory video from Dr. Kokayi and for more information, visit KokayiHealth.com. See ad, page 10.
Unitarian Fellowship of Lake Norman Welcomes All
The Unitarian Fellowship of Lake Norman, led by Rev. Pat Jobe, invites everyone to attend their services at 3 p.m. on Sundays in the Quaker Meeting House, in Davidson, North Carolina. They are one of four Unitarian Congregations in the area—the others are in the University area of Charlotte, East Charlotte and Salisbury.
Unitarians are an inclusive faith community who believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and who support one another in their search for truth, meaning and spiritual growth.
Unitarian Universalist principles are drawn from Judeo-Christian teachings, world religions and spiritual traditions, as well as science, poetry and personal experience.
Congregations promote respect for the interdependent web of all existence, and justice and compassion in human relations. Unitarians work to build a diverse and accepting world community with peace, liberty and justice for all. These social ideals translate into an active commitment to community service. The congregation meets every Sunday.
Location: 625 South St., Davidson. For more information, call 980-689-0630 or visit UULakeNorman.org. See CRG, page 38.
New Defense Against Superbugs
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that antimicrobial-resistant infections affect more than 2.8 million Americans annually, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. These “superbugs” have developed the ability to resist medicines used to eradicate them, including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics.
In 2019, a systematic review proposed fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a potential strategy for the decolonization of multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDRO), as well as for the prevention of recurring MDRO infections. The researchers suggested that the implantation of good bacteria could restore normal gut microbiota, giving patients the ability to fight off resistant infections without need for other medical interventions.
A small, randomized trial in the United Kingdom recently tested the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of FMT delivered in capsule form. Among the subjects with invasive infections, 20 received FMT capsules, while 21 were part of the placebo group. The findings published in the July issue of the Journal of Infection indicated that encapsulated FMT was safe, well-tolerated and effective in colonizing the gut with healthy bacteria and eliminating superbugs. This study establishes the groundwork for a larger-scale investigation.
Sucralose May Increase Appetite
According to research published in Nature Metabolism, the calorie-free sweetener known as sucralose may increase appetite. Sucralose is widely distributed in various food products, including baked goods, beverages, chewing gum and frozen dairy desserts. In a randomized crossover trial involving 75 young adults, participants consumed a beverage containing sucralose, sucrose or water.
The study revealed that the sucralose-containing drink could stimulate appetite by delivering a sweet taste without triggering the body’s natural mechanism for suppressing hunger. While this study is unlikely to significantly alter the availability of sucralose, it aligns with the 2023 World Health Organization’s recommendation that non-sugar sweeteners should not be used for weight management purposes.
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Women’s Health
by Dr. Roger Hunter
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has proven to be an effective therapy for age-related concerns such as cognitive decline, balancing hormones, alleviating menopausal symptoms, infertility issues and facilitating healthy aging. Its anti-aging protocols have shown the ability to increase telomere length by 20 percent and produce a 30 percent decrease in senescent cells that can lead to age-related disorders and cancer.
HBOT is an established adjunct therapy for improving fertility outcomes because it stimulates new blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) and reduces inflammation in the endometrial lining of the uterus. The technique also equates to higher-quality eggs and embryos, as HBOT transforms the lining of the uterus into the optimal environment for embryo implantation, resulting in higher pregnancy rates.
Animal studies in older females suggest that HBOT may be a potential clinical application for improving fertility. HBOT for male infertility has also revealed significant improvements in sperm survival, density, morphology, normal sperm rates and motility, for a greater clinical pregnancy rate. It has been shown as well to significantly alleviate perimenopausal clinical symptoms including insomnia, night sweats and heart palpitations due to its hormone-balancing properties.
Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.
Dysfunction of mitochondria, the “brain” of each cell in our body that determines the cells overall function, increases as we age. HBOT restores mitochondrial function. In addition, stem cell exhaustion increases as we age resulting in decreased ability for the
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body to repair itself. HBOT causes an eight-fold increase in stem cell production. Lastly, the narrowing of blood vessels increases as we age, resulting in less oxygen reaching the tissue. HBOT causes new blood vessels to grow into the tissue.
Dr. Roger Hunter is the owner of Nirvana Hyperbaric Institute, located at 146 Medical Park Rd., Ste. 110, in Mooresville. For more information or a free consultation, call 704-471-4100 or visit NirvanaHBO.com.
Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.
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Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks.
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Thank you!
Thank you!
Emotional Benefits of a Collaborative Divorce
Divorcing collaboratively instead of through litigation has huge emotional benefits. When couples litigate, there is typically more conflict, fear and aftereffects involved emotionally. One of the primary goals of the collaborative process is to build an amicable relationship that allows an easier transition out of the marriage and into a new life.
In addition, collaborative divorce enables families to stay relatively whole and encourages smoother co-parenting. Couples that achieve this generally experience less negative emotional impact, and everyone can build a new life in a more balanced manner.
When collaborative divorce is chosen by a couple, especially when a divorce coach is part of the process, the outcome is often more peaceful because the participants are equally able to have a say in the negotiations and a voice in the outcome.
This allows for greater empowerment and the ability to gain closure as both couples transition from the marriage to a new life in separate households. It also makes it much easier to maintain an intact family unit. And overall, there is a higher likelihood of manageable emotions and long-term contentment for all parties.
Ann Kreindler-Siegel, LCSW, MSW, MAEd, SEP, BCC, is a somatic experiencing psychotherapist and board-certified coach who specializes in collaborative divorce coaching and a member of Charlotte Collaborative Divorce Professionals. For more information, visit CharlotteCollaborativeDivorce.com.
Sustainable Building Materials
Julee Herdt, an award-winning architect, inventor and professor of architecture at the University of Colorado, has developed a range of high-performance, sustainable building materials called BioSIPs. Herdt’s technology enables the construction of structural panels, beams, interior partitions and furniture from paper, agricultural and bovine waste, as well as unwanted biomass such as hemp, wood and aromatic flowers, eliminating the need for synthetic binders or toxic resins. She has also developed insulation made from mushrooms that bonds to the BioSIP products.
These building materials are fully renewable, repulpable and recyclable. In a full-scale test, a solar home constructed with BioSIP products outperformed standard and sustainably designed solar homes in terms of energy efficiency, environmental standards and occupant comfort.
Goldfish Invaders
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is urging the public to refrain from releasing goldfish into local lakes, ponds and streams when they are no longer desired as pets, but instead seek alternative solutions such as returning them to the pet store or contacting a local aquarium or fish rescue organization for assistance.
In the wild, goldfish exhibit invasive characteristics that cause significant harm to local ecosystems. Omnivorous in nature, they thrive in diverse environmental conditions and are capable of rapid growth, exceeding four pounds in weight and a foot in length. At that size, they have no natural predators.
As bottom feeders, goldfish disrupt the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems by stirring up sediment, uprooting plants and muddying the water. Their spawning frequency, which occurs several times a season, can lead to rapid population expansion. Goldfish also harbor parasites and diseases against which native fish possess no immunity.
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Faith Consciousness Program Begins at HeartLight Spiritual Center
Intro Events Precede Three-Part Series
Dr. Leslie Wells—an internationally recognized speaker, author and energy medicine facilitator—began her career as a doctor of chiropractic and has since evolved into a trailblazer blending science and spirituality. She will lead the first in a three-part series of half-day experiential retreats known as the Faith Consciousness Program—a multidimensional teaching platform that integrates neuroscience, scripture and the quantum field into a framework for spiritual awakening and the evolution of human consciousness—from 2 to 6 p.m. on August 16 at HeartLight Spiritual Center, in Charlotte.
To introduce the core principles behind this work, Wells will offer a series of free introductory talks titled Awaken the Formula prior to the retreat. These seeding events are designed to give attendees a taste of the upcoming immersion and help them decide if the full experience is right for them. They will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on August 5 at Soul Wellness, in Mooresville; 5:30 to 7 p.m. on August 7 at Ahlara International, in Mooresville; and10:30 a.m. to noon on August 9 at HeartLight Spiritual Center, in Charlotte. While these preview events are free, love donations are welcome.
Polarity Consciousness is the first subject in the experiential series exploring the evolution of human awareness—from the grip of fear and survival to the grounded freedom of soulled sovereignty. This immersive experience invites participants into a powerful and embodied connection with the divine masculine—engaging with its original design as a force of strength, direction, purpose and focus. It’s an invitation to bring through
the Father aspect of God, integrating sacred masculine energy into form and function.
One of the highlights will be a dynamic drumming circle, an activation of masculine sound healing—rhythmic and grounded— calling participants into deeper presence and primal resonance. Combined with breathwork, a drumming circle, table-based reorganizational healing sessions, and inspired teaching, this retreat, by offering a sacred space to engage our inner truth, vitality and divine power, opens the door to releasing outdated patterns and stepping into embodied purpose and divine alignment.
“You’ll explore transformation through a multidimensional lens that weaves spiritual wisdom, somatic healing and quantum science,” says Wells. “Polarity Consciousness opens the door to releasing what no longer serves and reclaiming your connection to grounded masculine presence and purpose.”
“As outdated systems crumble, many are feeling lost, heavy or disconnected from their deeper truth. This event is a sacred invitation to remember who you are, why you’re here and how to align with your God-given power.”
The other two immersive events in the Faith Consciousness series will comprise Christ Consciousness, exploring the divine feminine—compassion, intuition and authentic expression; and Faith Consciousness, bringing the masculine and feminine into sacred union, guiding participants into creative mastery and divine embodiment.
Through her signature Faith Consciousness framework, she is bridging ancient scripture and modern science, Christian faith and quantum potential, Eastern breathwork and Western neuroscience—guiding others to become who they were always meant to be—divine co-creators of their lives through the technology of faith.
With more than 20 years of experience in intuitive healing, neuroscience and energy facilita tion through Network Spinal Analysis, Wells brings a rare fusion of grounded science and embodied Spirit. Her radio broadcasts and podcast have reached listeners in over 200 countries, and her show returns to the air next month.
A portion of proceeds will support The Vine School, in Uganda, providing nourishment and education to children in underserved communities.
Cost to attend Aug. 16 event: $140. Location: 7300 Mallard Creek Rd., Charlotte. To RSVP (required) to free and ticketed events, scan QR code. For more information, visit FaithConsciousness.com or email DrLeslieWells@gmail.com. See ad, page 9.
Dr. Leslie Wells
ASK A MECK COUNTY EXPERT
Mecklenburg County Solid Waste experts receive hundreds of residential waste disposal and recycling questions weekly. To educate and empower Natural Awakenings readers, their experts provide updates and answer some of the most frequently asked questions in a bi-monthly column.
Recycling Right at Schools and Preventing Rechargeable Battery Fires
The 2025-2026 school year is here, and Mecklenburg County Solid Waste encourages kids to Recycle Right in school and at home. We collect all recyclables and trash from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS). Just like at home, kids and teachers can only recycle the same six items you recycle curbside:
• Paper (newspapers, cards, mail, magazines)
• Plastic bottles and jugs (with necks)
• Milk and juice cartons
• Cardboard and clean pizza boxes
• Cans
• Glass bottles and jars
Throughout the school year, our team visits various schools to teach kids about recycling, composting, and other important environmental actions they can take.
CMS pays for trash and recycling pickup. Mecklenburg County or contracted vendors provide all services. Private schools are responsible for providing their own recycling services but can contract with Solid Waste if they choose.
Beyond the six curbside and school recyclables, some other items are recyclable, but only at one of the Solid Waste full-service or staffed recycling centers. Rechargeable batteries, for example, do not belong in curbside recycling bins or trash. They can cause fires at homes, on trash and recycling trucks, and at the recycling facilities. These fires can injure you and our workers as well as cause significant damage to machines.
Rechargeable batteries, also known as lithium-ion batteries, are commonly found in phones, power tools, laptops, vapes, and more. On average, Solid Waste sees one to two fires per week from rechargeable batteries. Visit WipeOutWaste.com to find the closest Solid Waste center to you.
Full-service centers: Hickory Grove-8007 Pence Rd., Charlotte; Compost Central-140 Valleydale Rd, Charlotte; Foxhole-17131 Lancaster Hwy, Charlotte and North Mecklenburg-12300 Statesville Rd., Huntersville. If you have program questions about recycling, waste diversion or anything else related to waste, please visit WipeOutWaste.com. To submit a waste disposal and recycling question, email SolidWaste@MeckNC.gov. Jeff Smithberger, Director of Solid Waste, answers the top seven residential recycling questions at https://tinyurl.com/MeckRec yleRightFAQs. See ad, page 13.
The Authentic Lifestyle
Learning To Realign With Our True Selves
by Carrie Jackson
Harmony in our daily routine provides a sustainable and fulfilling rhythm. A life in balance accommodates ambition and rest, effort and ease, honoring our individual energy and purpose. Instead of pursuing future goals and equating success with monetary gain or accomplishments, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and align our choices with personal values. By shifting from a rigid, externally oriented idea of success to a more holistic, harmoniously driven approach, we can experience greater joy, purpose and authenticity.
Connecting to the Web of Life
In 2022, Yoli Maya Yeh, a yoga teacher, shiatsu therapist and educator whose work revolves around Indigenous preservation, healing arts and social justice, embarked on an adventure of global nomadism and worldschooling her now 13-year-old child. Their journeys have taken them to many countries, including Morocco, Italy, Malta and Senegal. Yeh asserts that her lifestyle was not the result of a single decision but rather the culmination of focus, willpower and the strength of those that have walked before her.
“While entrepreneurship flows through my veins, without a clear vision, a sense of purpose and a deep well of confidence, I would not be able to be this assertive and daring in my approach to how I want to fulfill my dreams. I could decide to play small and feel contracted in my body, but that was not the intuitive guidance I have come to trust,” Yeh explains. “My vision is a life where I can be in spaces of belonging, collaborating and problem solving, dreaming and world-building
our collective liberated future. In the present moment, I explore my inborn gifts and hone them to be of maximum service.”
She maintains that a path of development cannot be solely cerebral, sharing, “A traveling lifestyle provides me with a high level of changefulness in which I can cultivate growth and adaptation through constant new experiences that challenge me to navigate unknowns. We must bring the transformative process into the body through active restoration tools and meaningful engagement with self.”
Harmony and resistance are felt in the body, and tapping into those signals enables us to deeply connect with our true selves. As Yeh puts it, “Perpetual analysis in the mind disconnects us from the experience of resonance, thus distancing us from actual alignment. A daily centering practice that draws
on a collage of breathwork, mantra and meditative techniques allows us to hone our connection to the sensations in the body.”
As a respite from the demands of modern society, Yeh turns to yoga nidra, a yogic sleep meditation originating in South Asia, as well as other Indigenous wisdom traditions. “Living in the modern era presents us with contradictory factors,” she says. “We have more automation and digital support, while at the same time, we are cut off from our ancestral rejuvenation practices such as sacred dreaming, ritual and community celebration.”
Another valuable practice is rematriation, or “returning to the Sacred Mother”, which emphasizes the restoration of Indigenous knowledge and connection. “In this practice, we lay our tired bones down on the earth to rest and revive the ancestral wisdom
that lives within. Like so many meditative and trance practices, one explores liminal states of consciousness where the mind expands well beyond the confines of the awake, thinking mind and amplifies creativity and a sense of freedom,” Yeh explains. “To experience fulfillment in life, we need a recipe that combines resonance of expansion and a sense of belonging. Success is the embodied expression of this connection to self and collective at the same time.”
Fulfilling Our Journey
Brianna Wiest is the bestselling author of numerous books, including 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think, The Pivot Year and The Mountain Is You. Her personal reflections are derived from years of self-inquiry and meditation practice, and her writing emphasizes emotional intelligence and self-awareness as keys to meaningful success.
She notes that the conventional standard of success varies depending on an individual’s upbringing, network and environment. “There are ways in which society measures and corroborates a concept of success, and many people feel beholden to this definition. But this can become more defeating than motivating, as the idea of success is often divorced from the essence of what it should actually mean,” she says. “Success is effectiveness, but the question becomes: Effectiveness at what? Fulfillment is when we’re effective at something meaningful. It’s an internal gauge, rather than an external measure. Fulfillment is when we feel deep peace and inner satisfaction, regardless of how others may perceive our endeavors or pursuits.”
Shifting the focus away from the outcome, and more on our journey, is a practice that strengthens within the interplay of
momentum and inertia. Wiest states, “The more we acknowledge and feel good about the progress we’re making, the more inclined we feel to make more of it. Often, we use the inverse on ourselves: We try to focus on the ways in which we’re falling behind (or imagine that we are) so as to motivate ourselves to move forward. This usually just compounds the mindset that we are incapable, and it’s not worth the effort. The best way to become more of anything is first to find evidence of the ways in which you already are that thing.”
Wiest recommends striking a balance between ambition and rest by fine-tuning intuition and strengthening the ability to respond effectively. “There’s no right way to divide up your time, and everyone’s needs differ,” she points out. “Rather than waiting until you’re at the point of depletion to think about taking care of yourself, sit honestly with the question of where you’d like your bandwidth to expand and how your body and mind signal that it’s time to decompress. In the same way that you have to rest a
muscle after exercising it for it to strengthen, repair and grow, the rest of the body works similarly. It’s part of the process, not antithetical to it.”
Reflective practices such as meditation and journaling can enable us to be more mindful and make decisions that align with our values, instead of acting impulsively. Wiest suggests looking at life from the perspective of our 90-year-old self and considering what we would have done differently. “Mindfulness is a way of both stilling the waters of the mind and calming the inner chaos, while at the same time, giving us the chance to pause between having a thought and a feeling and then immediately responding to it,” she says. “It’s that gap of time where we get to consciously decide how we will react that ultimately creates our personal freedom.”
Living Our Soul’s Purpose
Author, podcaster and co-founder of the Dharma Coaching Institute, Sahara Rose Ketabi helps people discover their soul’s
Frizi from Getty Images/CanvaPro
purpose. “Your dharma is the big reason why you are here,” she explains. “It’s your sacred mission, your truth and the sacred intersection of your joy and the world’s needs. When you’re aligned with your dharma, life begins to feel like a divine dance—yes, with challenges, but also with deep meaning. It’s not about being the best at something; it’s about being you, fully and unapologetically.”
Ketabi contends that the pursuit of success alone does not yield happiness; it is happiness that brings true success. “Success isn’t just about ticking boxes or climbing ladders. It’s about alignment,” she clarifies. “We can shift this mindset by tuning into our bodies, emotions and passions, asking, ‘Does this feel expansive? Does this nourish my soul?’ When your success is in service of your dharma, it feels sustainable, fulfilling and soul-led.”
Ketabi incorporates Ayurvedic wisdom into her teachings to help people tune into their own energy. “Ayurveda is the science of life, and your dharma is the reason you’re alive. They’re inherently connected. By understanding your dosha—vata, pitta or kapha—you understand your strengths, challenges and soul gifts,” she explains. “It’s not just about food or herbs; it’s about rhythm. If you’re a fiery pitta trying to force your purpose, you may burn out. A dreamy vata may need structure to bring ideas through. Ayurveda teaches you how to work with your energy, not against it, so your dharma can blossom naturally.”
Living as your most authentic self ultimately has a butterfly effect for making positive changes in the world. “When one person lives in their dharma, it shifts the field for everyone around them. It creates a ripple of remembrance,” says Ketabi. “I believe that your dharma is not just about you, but it’s about the impact you create through being you. It is not selfish to follow your joy; it’s necessary. When you do what you love, you become magnetic. You inspire others to stop settling, to heal and to rise. You become the permission slip they didn’t know they needed. Living your dharma is the highest form of spiritual activism.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Taking an Energy Inventory
by Carrie Jackson
In a world that can be overwhelmingly stimulating, taking a moment to focus on mindfulness helps us reset and refocus. “Your body is your temple, and your intuition is your oracle,” says dharma coach Sahara Rose Ketabi. She recommends meditation, intuitive journaling and embodied movement as catalysts for connecting to our inner guidance and discovering life’s purpose.
• Meditation enhances listening skills, emotional awareness and overall human well-being. Turn off all distractions and notice any thoughts that arise.
• Journaling transforms intangible thoughts into visible reflections. Take five minutes every day to jot down observations, feelings and sensations.
• Embodied movement releases trapped tension, stress and trauma within the body. Start each day with a fluid, sensual and grounding movement session to foster greater joy, creativity, bliss, pleasure and peace.
Small but Mighty
Growing and Enjoying Microgreens and Sprouts
by Chloe Karydes Krecun
Microgreens and sprouts are small but mighty, delivering considerable benefits for the health conscious. Whether grown at home or purchased fresh from a local grocer or farmers market, these superfoods make for an easy and accessible way to add texture, flavor and nutrients to everyday meals.
Subtle differences distinguish these two remarkable plants. Microgreens are edible, immature seedlings grown in soil or a similar medium and harvested upon the appearance of the first few cotyledon leaves. Sprouts are germinated seeds that are cultivated in water until they grow into an edible plant. Their roots, seeds and leaves are edible.
“Anyone can grow a small tray of microgreens on a windowsill or around a kitchen counter,” says Katie Staudt, owner and head grower of Meraki Urban Farm, in Chicago. She points out the common misconception that microgreens can only be grown in a liquid solution. While some do-it-yourself kits employ hydroponic techniques, they are not the most efficient growing method and may lead to mold growth.
“You don’t have to have a green thumb if you have the right information,” says Staudt. Because they can be easily propagated in small trays, microgreens are ideal for small, indoor spaces. She suggests using
soilless media made of peat, coconut coir or hemp that allow for proper drainage while holding the right amount of moisture. The plants demand little maintenance and are usually harvested when the greens are one to three inches tall, making them a perfect choice for individuals with limited gardening experience. Staudt recommends beginning with the radish sprout, which can grow and be ready to eat in as little as seven days. Kale, purple kohlrabi, red acre cabbage, bok choi and wasabi mustard sprouts are also easy-to-grow varietals.
Sprouts can be more challenging to grow because they require greater oversight to preserve food safety. It is important to soak the seeds in water and rinse them daily with clean water to maintain a moist environment while also reducing the risk of bacterial growth. According to agricultural experts at Penn State Extension, bacteria in the sprouting seeds “can continue to thrive if proper food handling techniques are not practiced during harvest, processing and preparation.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides good agricultural practices for growing, harvesting, packing and holding sprouts, which include using clean water, wearing disposable sterile gloves when handling the seeds and sprouts, and cooling the sprouts to 32° F immediately after harvesting. The FDA strongly recommends cooking sprouts thoroughly before consuming them to eliminate harmful bacteria. Children, the elderly, pregnant women and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts altogether.
According to Dominique Kline, farm manager of The Hope Farm, in Alabama,
“Radish or broccoli sprouts would probably be the easiest ones to start out with at home, just because those are some of the most reliable and have the fastest turnover.” Alfalfa, mung bean and sunflower sprouts are also relatively easy to grow.
Packed With Power
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, microgreens contain five times greater levels of vitamins and carotenoids than their mature plant counterparts, including vitamins C, E, K and A, as well as beta carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin and violaxanthin.
“You can eat 50 cups of broccoli or a single cup of broccoli sprouts for similar nutrition and benefit,” explains Emily Ho, nutrition professor and director of the Linus
Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, in an article published by the American Heart Association.
It is important to understand that these plants’ shelf life is short once they are cut.
“The closer they are to being alive, the better they are for you,” Kline asserts. For those that prefer to purchase their produce instead of growing it, local farmers markets or select grocery stores also offer fresh microgreens and sprouts that provide the same nutritional benefits and quality. This can be a convenient way to not compromise on freshness or effectiveness.
From Garden to Plate in Seconds
Not only are microgreens and sprouts relatively simple to grow, they are even easier
to eat. Incorporating them into meals is quite straightforward. Kline recommends adding them to any hot or cold food as an easy nutrient boost. Sprinkle them on salads, eggs or pizza for added texture, contrast and flavor. Arugula and radish microgreens add a delightful peppery flavor, while mung beans offer a milder, slightly sweet experience, and sunflower sprouts lend a nutty flavor to any dish.
Whether enjoyed fresh from a windowsill at home or sourced from a local market, microgreens and sprouts bring nutrient density along with delicious flavors and textures, making them an attractive green to incorporate into everyday meals
Chloe Karydes Krecun is a sophomore at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Connect at LinkedIn.com/in/chloe-karydes-krecun.
Drain water from tofu then wrap it in paper towels and place it on a plate. Wait 10 minutes before gently pressing the tofu, causing excess water to be absorbed by the paper towels. Unwrap the tofu and cut it evenly into one-inch cubes. Set aside.
Add avocado oil or olive oil to a cast iron or other frying pan, set on medium-high heat until the pan is hot. Tilt the pan back and forth until the oil covers the entire surface. Be careful not to overheat the oil—it smokes if overheated.
Add the paprika, ginger, coriander, salt, chipotle, cinnamon, maple syrup and molasses to the pan. Using a fork, evenly distribute all of the ingredients in the hot oil.
When the spicy mixture bubbles, place the tofu cubes by hand into the pan. Lower the heat to medium. Brown the tofu about 2 minutes and then carefully turn it over to brown for another 2 minutes. Once browned, place the tofu onto a serving plate.
Add bean sprouts to the hot pan, stir with a fork until sprouts are hot. Add toasted sesame oil. Stir again and then remove pan from the stove.
Cover tofu with hot bean sprouts and serve immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
GenAI/CanvaPro
LEMON HUMMUS VEGGIE BOWL WITH SUNFLOWER SPROUTS AND BASIL
YIELD: 2 TO 3 SERVINGS
1 can chickpeas, chilled and drained
¼ cup tahini
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
4 Tbsp water
1 tsp tamari or liquid aminos
¼ tsp sea salt or smoked salt
¾ cup sunflower sprouts or mixed sprouts
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, tamari or liquid aminos and salt in a blender. Pulse blender a few times then blend ingredients until smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add another tablespoon of water. Transfer hummus to a bowl.
Add tomatoes, basil leaves and a thick layer of sprouts on top of the hummus. Drizzle everything with olive oil, an extra splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of tamari.
Enjoy with bread, pita, crackers or spooned over a bed of freshly made quinoa, couscous, lentils or a green salad.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
MICROGREEN SMOOTHIE
YIELD: 1 SERVING
1 cup frozen organic berries
1 cup coconut water
1 frozen banana
1 oz broccoli microgreens
2 Tbsp hemp seeds or chia seeds
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Katie Staudt.
GenAI/CanvaPro
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Good Vibrations
Harnessing the Power of Sound To Promote Healing and Relaxation
by Marlaina Donato
From the haunting drone of an Australian didgeridoo to the steady heartbeat of a frame drum, cultures around the world have used sound to facilitate healing for thousands of years. In modern times, scientific research corroborates what native cultures have intuitively known: Sound-based vibration and resonance affect our body at the cellular level.
“As you consider the efficacy of sound vibration in the body, it is important to understand that our cells, organs, bones, tissue and cerebral spinal fluid are all composed of water. We are more than 70 percent water, and sound travels four times faster in water than in air. The human body is a natural resonator for sound,” says Ellen F. Franklin, Ph.D., co-founder and chief executive officer of the Acutonics Institute of Integrative Medicine, in Llano, New Mexico, who draws from East Asian medicine, Western science, psychology, physics and music theory to provide sound vibration therapies.
The use of Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, percussion instruments, calibrated tuning forks, gongs, cymbals, chimes, flutes and vocalization affects brain waves by inducing parasympathetic relaxation and modulating pain perception. Directly impacting the vagus nerve, strategic sound applications can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic pain and trauma response, and can
be useful for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Improved sleep quality, heightened creativity and inner calm are additional potential benefits.
Cutting-Edge Soundwaves
Histotripsy, a new U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved technology, employs high-pitched, focused ultrasound energy to break up liver tumors. Similarly, lithotripsy uses ultrasonic shock waves to eliminate kidney stones. Acoustic engineering has also emerged as a promising tool for diagnosis, encompassing brain sei zures, heart disease modeling and medication screening.
According to Franklin, co-author of Cells: Planetary Science, Harmony and Medicine can be activated via the application of calibrated tuning forks crafted from aerospace-grade metal to key acupuncture points along the body’s meridians (energy pathways). “A number of studies have shown that the vagus nerve is particularly sensitive to sound vibra tion. DU 20, a key acupoint, addresses stress and trauma, as it can be used to help people wake up the brain and open the mind, and is of ten used for cognitive disorders and many stress-related symptoms,” she explains, adding that this work is currently being used in clinical settings for patients that do not respond effectively to conventional methods or exhibit drug resistance.
Trauma, Tranquility and Brain Health
The rhythmic patterns of electrical activity in the brain produce distinct frequencies that are associated with mental states, emo tions and cognitive functions. Throughout our waking and sleeping life, the brain shifts through gamma, beta, alpha, theta and delta states. When we transition to the alpha state using sound thera pies like drumming, binaural beats, singing bowls or gongs, we feel calmer and more joyful. Either by playing or listening, therapeutic hand drumming synchronizes the left and right hemispheres of the brain and may be valuable in augmenting cognitive function, retraining the brain after a stroke or improving the management of conditions such as autism, Alzheimer’s disease and attentiondeficit hyperactivity disorder.
drum, especially when played at specific tempos, can induce the brain to synchronize with these rhythms, leading to shifts in brain wave patterns,” says Michael McCullough, a sound healing practitioner at The Healing Sanctuary, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. “Using the perfect fifth, or a 128 Hertz, tuning fork can also boost the body’s production of nitric oxide and balance the autonomic nervous system, releasing antibacterials, antivirals and free radicals on a microscopic level.”
Incorporating therapeutic sound modalities in our healing regimens can broaden the potential for physical and mental well-being. McCullough recommends trying a group sound bath, which is a meditative session where participants lie on a yoga mat or blanket and listen to a diverse range of sounds. He acknowledges that private sessions with a skilled practitioner may also be beneficial because they can be tailored to individual needs and provide a more comprehensive experience.
While Franklin also recommends such sound healing experiences, she cautions, “Frequencies can be used to promote health and wellbeing, but we always advise people to educate themselves. When working with sound medicine therapeutics, less is more.” Excessive sound therapy—too much or too often—could aggravate the nervous system in some individuals, causing unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, disorientation or headaches.
Marlaina Donato is an author, musician and painter. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
“The frame drum can significantly influence brain waves, primarily through a process called rhythmic entrainment. The pulses of the
microgen from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Science Behind Integrative Sound Therapy
by Elizabeth Kriz
Traditional wellness practices often address symptoms in isolation, such as massage for physical tension, meditation for mental stress or counseling for emotional issues. However, research increasingly shows that combining therapeutic modalities creates synergistic effects that surpass individual treatments alone.
Sound therapy exemplifies this integrative principle perfectly. When therapeutic frequencies from singing bowls, chimes and other instruments are combined with gentle bodywork, the results are measurably enhanced.
The physical touch of massage or energy work creates receptivity in the nervous system, while sound vibrations traveling both through auditory pathways and direct tissue contact facilitate deeper brainwave entrainment from stressed beta states (15 to 40 Hertz) to restorative alpha-theta frequencies (3 to 12 Hertz).
A 2023 study in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies demonstrated that participants receiving combined modalities showed 40 percent greater improvement in stress markers
compared to single-treatment groups. The integration works because different pathways reinforce each other. Bodywork releases physical tension, while sound addresses neurological patterns, and both activate the parasympathetic nervous system more effectively together than separately.
This integrative approach mirrors the way stress itself is multifaceted, simultaneously affecting us physically, emotionally and mentally. Many practitioners report that clients receiving combined sound therapy with bodywork experience faster relief, longer-lasting results and greater overall well-being compared to single-modality treatments. The key is understanding that healing happens across multiple systems together, making integrated approaches not just beneficial, but essential for comprehensive wellness.
Elizabeth Kriz is a licensed massage therapist, certified sound therapist and owner of Holistic Harmony, located at 4830 Monroe Rd., Unit B, in Charlotte. For more information, call 704-936-0591 or visit TheHolisticHarmony.life.
The Healing Benefits of Sound Therapy
by Katie Sutton
Eleven years ago, very few people had heard of sound healing. Today it is offered in many studios and wellness centers across Charlotte. It can be a powerful entryway into deeper spiritual practices by creating a field of vibration that helps the body attune to something beyond the constant noise of everyday life.
Like a tuning fork, our bodies naturally calibrate to the frequencies around us. On most days, those frequencies are more stressful than supportive. Sound healing not only supports a balanced nervous system, but helps us feel deeply, process emotional buildup and reclaim a sense of peace and well-being.
When someone receives sound healing from a skilled practitioner, the therapist intuitively selects instruments and sounds to help move out stuck energies, emotions
and disruptive patterns. As the body begins to harmonize with the sound, it disconnects from the vibration of stress. In this state of attunement, the body can begin to unwind what no longer serves it.
Katie Sutton is founder of Zen Within Academy and is a sound healer, certified professional coach, retreat facilitator, and intuitive channel. For more information, visit ZenWithinAcademy.com.
Mindful Workouts
Introducing Mental Wellness Modalities at the Gym
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
Mental wellness is no longer considered a separate pillar of health; it is becoming deeply integrated into physical fitness routines across the country. As the discourse surrounding emotional and psychological well-being becomes more open and less stigmatized, there is a shift in how people approach exercise. Not only is fitness focused on building muscle and burning calories, but increasingly it is about fostering resilience, restoring balance and supporting the mind as well as the body.
This integration of mental wellness emphasizes practices such as breathwork, guided meditation, intentional recovery and nervous system regulation as core components of a comprehensive fitness regimen. For health-conscious individuals seeking vitality and longevity, this is a natural evolution of holistic living.
“The physical body reflects what is mindfully and energetically present,” shares Dawn Coleman, a certified personal trainer and life transformation coach based in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. “Honoring the body’s physical well-being requires that we consider energetic pathways that allow the nurturing of the soul and mind, which, in turn, promotes physical fitness.”
Mind-Body Integration
Today’s approach goes beyond the endorphin rush of a workout. Wellness buffs are looking for fitness environments and tools that help calm the mind, process emotions and foster inner strength. Gyms and studios are responding by incorporating stress-relieving modalities into their offerings. It is not uncommon to find yoga classes ending with a 10-minute guided meditation or strength sessions that begin with focused breathwork. Even high-performance athletes are embracing these new tools, recognizing that mental clarity and nervous system regulation enhance both performance and recovery.
• Breathwork: According to Coleman, conscious breathing exercises help regulate the nervous system and lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A 2023 meta-analysis published in the journal Nature found that breathwork may be effective for improving stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Techniques like box breathing, diaphragmatic breathing or alternate nostril breathing can be layered into warm-ups, cool-downs or standalone sessions.
• Meditation and Visualization: Whether it’s a guided meditation before sleep or a visualization practice to prepare for a race,
meditation trains the brain for focus, reduces anxiety and enhances emotional resilience. Research published in Frontiers in Psychology affirms that tailored visualization improves athletic performance and establishes the mental toughness needed to achieve both long-term and short-term goals.
• Recovery Rituals: Recuperation is a vital part of training. Therapies involving infrared saunas, float tanks, cryotherapy and contrast baths support muscle repair while simultaneously calming the nervous system and promoting mental relaxation. A 2023 randomized crossover study of 20 basketball players, published in Biology of Sport, reported improvements in muscle recovery and reduced soreness when exercise was followed by an infrared sauna session. A peer-reviewed article in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise reported that exercisers that followed highintensity interval training with a one-hour floatation session experienced enhanced recovery from sore muscles and improved performance readiness.
• Tai Chi and Qigong: These mindful movement disciplines emphasize intention, awareness and breath, creating space for physical vitality and mental clarity.
Reimagining the Gym
The design of fitness spaces is evolving toward environments that promote wholeness and healing. Lighting and music are intentionally curated to create inviting atmospheres, while recovery lounges are incorporated for meditation or breathwork practices. This evolution has been particularly meaningful for women experiencing burnout, hormonal fluctuations or chronic stress.
Rather than pushing through fatigue or anxiety, individuals are adopting restorative practices that align with their physical needs. Many gyms, as well as yoga and Pilates studios, are offering supplemental therapies to support mental and physical fitness objectives. Sauna, red light and cold plunge therapies have become more accessible than ever.
Enduring Wellness
Mental wellness integration is more than a trend; it is a redefinition of what it means to be fit, challenging the old “no pain, no gain” model and replacing it with a deeper, more sustainable approach to health.
T his shift is being embraced not only because it feels good in the moment, but also because it supports long-term wellbeing. People are learning to treat their minds with the same care and intention as their muscles. By doing so, they are redefining strength, not as something visible, but as something profoundly felt—steady breathing, calm thoughts, inner peace. In a fast-paced world that often demands more and more, mental wellness integration offers a path toward greater equilibrium, presence and joy throughout the journey.
Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.
Three-Month Planner
Overeaters Anonymous Weekly Meetings
Program of recovery from ompulsive overeating, food restricting, and other obsessive food behaviors using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of OA; fellowship and support.
Through a foundation of nonjudgement, forgiveness, and selfawareness, the Course illuminates the path to peace, joy, and love.
Sundays · 9:30am
Unity of Charlotte 3200 Park Rd, Charlotte UnityOfCharlotte.org 704-565-9626
Sunday Night Spiritual Gathering at EESystem
Spiritual discussion on metaphysical, spirituality of energy and energy work, sensitive empathic overload and making sense of the gift of spiritual sensitivity.
Sundays · 6-7:30pm · Donation
Scalar Health Enhancement Center 938 Cloverleaf Plaza, Kannapolis ScalarHealthEnhancement.com 704-490-5483
Lion’s Gate Psychic Fair
Join us to kick off the transformational energy the Lion’s Gate Portal brings. Tarot, Lenormand readings, Tibetan numerology, readings, astrological insights, birth chart mini-sessions, energy healing, reiki and more. Arrive early to book sessions.
Aug 8 · 11:30am-6pm · Free (sessions for fee)
Sanctuary Imports 822 Lamar Ave, Charlotte SanctuaryImportsclt.com 980-237-4780
Open House and Free College and Job Seeker Physical Clinic
Visit us for our Open House and/ or schedule your free college or job seeker physical at annual event (or $60 physicals any other time). Nurse Marlin has been providing affordable primary care to the Charlotte community for 39 years. Advanced appointment required for physicals.
Aug 16 · 10am-2pm · Free
Primary Health-Care of Charlotte 508 Beatties Ford Rd, Charlotte GetWellnessCare.com 704-975-3850
Faith Consciousness Series Half-Day Retreat: Polarity Consciousness
Activate the masculine current of focus, structure, and directed energy that brings form into being- through drumming, breathwork, meditation, and energy practices. Restore clarity, direction and confidence for creating a purposeful, inspired life. Presented by Dr Leslie Wells. Advanced registration required.
Aug 16 · 2-6pm · $140 HeartLight Spiritual Center 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte FaithConsciousness.com
Green Burial Lunch and Learn Join Kings Mountain Preserve for lunch and learn more about the environmental and economic benefits of green burials. Advanced registration required.
Aug 21 (3rd Thurs of month) 11am · Free Trio Restaurant 10709 McMullen Creek Pkwy, Charlotte KingsMountainPreserve.com 877-375-2495
Men’s Group: Improve Your Relationships
Learn new depths within yourself and relationships. Small group for confidential space to reflect, build relationships, gain confidence and tools to manage stress. Advanced registration required.
Sept 4-Dec 11 (every other Thurs) 6:30-8pm · $225
Creative Perspectives Therapy 1010 S Main St, Mount Holly CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com 704-759-6525
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
FIERY SAGE HEALING
11220 Elm Ln, Ste 200
910-444-1893
fsHealing@gmail.com
fsHealing.com
Feel your best naturally through the power of acupuncture. Ballantyne location includes Traditional and 5 Element Acupuncture, cupping, electronic stimulation, herbal medicine, nutrition support, sound therapy. Complimentary consultations. Insurance accepted, including Medicare Advantage C Plans.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Ashley Paraiso, a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, specializes in fertility, pain management, women’s health, and chronic conditions, promoting self-healing through Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Bodywork
BRITISH MASSAGE
2210 Coronation Blvd, Ste C 704-572-1310
BritishMassage.com
Originally from London, Jessica is highly intuitive, has a natural healing touch and loves to help people feel better physically and emotionally. Medical Reiki Master and offers Reiki classes. Book massage/reiki today. See ad, page 32.
Brain/Mental Health
DOC BROWN BUSH INTEGRATIVE THERAPY 21000 Torrence Chapel Rd Ste 208, Cornelius 704-491-2216·DocBrownBush.com
Customized natural solutions for healing mental health issues, unhealthy behaviors, and brain health problems. Treats ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, stress, anxiety and TBI with counseling, nervous system/stress rewiring, brain balancing and functional medicine/naturopathy. See ad, page 25 .
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Rachel Crawford Oruko, MA, is a double board-certified art therapist and counselor supporting healing from trauma, grief, burnout, and reproductive challenges through compassionate, personcentered care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Karen McKinney, LCMHCA, holistic counselor specializing in trauma, PTSD, mood disorders, and crisis intervention, integrating body, mind, spirit, and nutritional psychology in her therapy approach. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Chiropractor
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Jeffrey Dunnigan, DC, brings over 20 years of experience combining chiropractic and acupuncture to treat pain, injuries, and restore balance through holistic, patientcentered care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Chronic & Difficult Cases
HAAS WELLNESS CENTER
3315 Springbank Ln, Ste 102
704-837-2420
HaasWellnessCenters.com
Specializing in chronic and difficult cases and holistic and wellness care. We identify and treat the root cause of your health issues. Call today for a free 15-minute consultation. See ad, page 4.
TORCHBEARER TACHYON
19900 S Main St, Cornelius Unit 4, Ste E · 980-689-1803
TorchBearerTachyon.com
Stop suffering and elevate your experience with a transcendent 45-minute tachyon therapy session tuned to target your specific chronic condition. Read our reviews and book your experience for optimal balance and alignment today.
Compulsive Eating/ Spiritual Recover y
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
Meetings throughout Charlotte Area
Piedmontintergroup.org
Helping compulsive overeaters/ food restrictors find recovery through Twelve Steps, patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous. Free in-person and online meetings in Charlotte area provide fellowship, support and anonymity. Meetings open to everyone. Join us today.
Craniosacral Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Relieve stress and migraines, recover from trauma, restore palate deformation, address tinnitus, and improve sleep with IVY Integrative's craniosacral therapists. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Dentistry
GENTRY DENTAL
5950 Fairview Rd, Ste 16 704-554-1007
GentryDentalCharlotte.com
Providing the highest quality biological/holistic dental care with compassion and understanding. Modern, spa-like office, state-of-the-art equipment and individualized care and attention. In-office dental savings plan. Call today to schedule appointment.
Biologically minded family dental office offering 3D digital dentistry, preventative dentistry, safe mercury removal and sleep apnea screenings. In a relaxed and caring environment, all patients are given devoted time. Call the office today to request a new patient consultation. See ad, page 25.
Affordable convenient direct primary care from a personalized holistic perspective. Thorough and efficient care with nutrition as the foundation. We want to get and keep you healthy. Schedule a new patient consult today. See ad, page 31.
Divorce doesn’t have to be traumatic - discover a better way with collaborative divorce. The fundamental tenets are respect, transparency, peace, customization, privacy. Visit our website and contact us today. See ad, page 17.
Supports a 360˚ from your yard to our facility and back again. Mecklenburg County upcycles your yard waste to create high-quality STA approved compost and beautiful mulch at a very affordable price See ad, page 13.
SUSTAINABLE INTERIOR DESIGN
Claudia Josephine Design
860-796-3415
ClaudiaJosephineDesign.com
Proving that sustainable, ecofriendly design can still be stylish, Claudia creates classic, functional, and beautiful interiors. Certified Green Accredited Professional. Specializing in new residential construction and full-service interior design.
When you enter the Scalar Health Enhancement Center, you enter a healing zone where the 5th Dimension isn't just a theory, it is a functioning reality! Call for appointment today. See ad, page 7.
Energy Healing
THE NEW YOU MIRACLE BAND
Jeff Nursey, Customer Service Sales@tnymb.com 850-207-6621 · TNYMB.com
Change your frequency, change your life. Our products have an integrated charged disc to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover.
The Carolina's only Integrative practice offering membership based Direct Primary Care and Functional Medicine wellness programs. Wellness programs are individualized to the patient and address the root cause of illness. See ad, page 31.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Marissa Boyd, a naturopathic doctor, hydrotherapist, and craniosacral therapist, blends science with natural therapies to support men’s health, stress, and gut issues—meeting patients where they are with empathy and expertise. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Yelena Okhotin, a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, and craniosacral therapist, specializes in women’s health, stress management, hormones, and pain relief using holistic practices. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Caitlan Readhead, a licensed naturopathic doctor, specializes in treating tick-borne illnesses, mold toxicity, chronic fatigue, and underlying viruses naturally. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Kellyann Tomko, a naturopathic doctor and health coach, specializes in metabolic health, gut health, menopause, cognitive health, and holistic approaches to chronic conditions and wellness. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Gardening
AMERICAN BEAUTY GARDEN CENTER
4400 E Independence Blvd
704-334-8651
ABGardenCenter.com
Charlotte’s organic gardening supply store for over 17 years. Knowledgeable staff that answers your questions and makes recommendations. Natural/ organic products, hydroponic solutions, greenhouses, grow lights, and more. Visit us today.
THE PATIO FARMER
Charlotte, NC • ThePatioFarmer.com ThePatioFarmer@gmail.com @thepatiofarmer on IG and FB
Confidently grow food at home with Consultation, Installation and Maintenance Plans. Also check out Plant Club for indepth gardening know how. Contact us today and start enjoying food from your own plants.
Herbal Medicine
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Chelsea Birch, naturopathic doctor and registered herbalist, formulates personalized botanical medicine to empower those with chronic conditions seeking effective, natural, and alternative healing solutions. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Holistic Wellness Care
PRIMARY HEALTH-CARE OF CHARLOTTE, P.A 508 Beatties Ford Rd 704-347-1172 • GetWellnessCare.com
Serving Charlotte for 39 years with continuous low-cost holistic health care for uninsured and under insured. Physicals, first aid, TB and other tests. Certified by NC Board of Medical Examiners and NC Board of Nursing. By appointment.
Hormone Health
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Stephanie Hendershot is a functional naturopathic doctor that blends modern science with natural medicine to treat hormones, digestion, skin, and fertility—empowering patients to heal from the root. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Hyperbaric Therapy
NIRVANA HYPERBARIC INSTITUTE
146 Medical Park Rd, Ste 110 Mooresville • 704-471-4100 NirvanaHBO.com
Dedicated to healing, forwarding the science of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and providing patients a tranquil place to heal. Highly effective in treating many conditions, some covered by insurance. See ad, page 4.
Hypnotherapy
PHYSICIAN-LED AUTHENTICITY COACHING
In person & Virtual appointments
980-485-6988
MosaeicHypnosis.com
Escape the success trap; rediscover your authentic self and achieve purposeful success with Mani Saint-Victor, MD. Align your life with your true values, passions and purpose today. Schedule free consultation. See ad, page 6.
Integrative Healer
KATIE SUTTON
Intuitive Channel, Guided Meditation Coach
828-246-3335
ZenWithinAcademy.com
Katie synthesizes a unique blend of healing modalities with selfactivation techniques–from sound and vibrational therapy, to intuitive channeling, to guided meditation–in order to deliver healings tailored to each person's needs.
Integrative Pediatrician
INFINITE HEALTH, PLLC
Sheila Kilbane, MD 2201 Park Rd, Ste B 704-626-6771 • SheilaKilbane.com
Dr. Kilbane is a board-certified integrative pediatrician who specializes in finding the root cause of illness including reflux, eczema, allergies, recurrent ear and sinus infections, asthma, constipation, abdominal pain and more.
Intuitive Advisor
SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, HEALER & MEDITATION COACH
Anna Sophia 850-602-0526
PureSophia.com
Anna offers guidance on ideal dates for marriage, promotions, and major life choices. Enhance your health and happiness with Archangels support and personalized meditations tailored to your needs. Discover peace and purpose with Anna.
Lifestyle Optimization
IVY INTEGRATIVE 1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Katherine Lanning, OTD, OTR/L, occupational therapist helping individuals with chronic health concerns optimize routines, habits, and environments for better health and life satisfaction. Mindfulness, functional goal setting for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, chronic pain. See ad, page 2.
Massage Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Relax with Chey Nichols, LMBT— IVY Integrative's trusted, boardcertified massage therapist— offering Swedish, deep tissue, lymphatic, athletic, and prenatal massage. À la carte options, packages, and memberships available. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
MetaPhysician
KOKAYI HEALTH SERVICES
726 East Blvd, 2nd Floor
310-713-5764
KokayiHealth.com
The MetaPhysician- Yale trained MD combining cutting edge medical therapies with the wisdom of traditional medicine. Extraordinary holistic, integrative medical care, supporting optimal health and effective treatment alternatives. 38 Years Holistic Primary Care. See ad, page 10.
Nutrition
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Elena DiPerri, CNS, combines science and compassion to help clients balance hormones, boost energy, and improve metabolic health through personalized, sustainable nutrition and Bowen therapy. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Ozone Therapy
PUREFICO MEDSPA & THERAPY
19401 Old Jetton Rd, Ste 100 Cornelius · 704-655-2719
Purefico.com
Full line of noninvasive wellness/ beauty services including only local provider of cutting edge Eboo Ozone IV Therapy system. Treats autoimmune disorders, infections, viruses, chronic fatigue, Lyme disease and more. Call and mention Natural Awakenings discount. See ad, page 15.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE 1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Mièka Bryan, DPT, specializes in pelvic floor therapy, empowering patients of all ages to overcome pain, dysfunction, and restore wellness through expert, compassionate care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Physical Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Sarah Kingsley, PT, DPT, combines physical therapy, myofascial release, Bowen Therapy, and yoga to help clients of all ages relieve chronic pain, reset the nervous system, and reconnect with their bodies for lasting wellness. See ad, page 2.
Psychic
PSYCHIC MEDIUM KELLE
4371 Charlotte Hwy, Ste 22, Clover, SC 978-420-8213
·PsychicMediumKelle.com
PsychicMedium@verizon.net
Psychic medium +18 years, author and radio show host. Private readings, psychic investigator on missing person cases. Helps those at a crossroads, experiencing unresolved issues or dealing with loss. Call for appointment today. See ad, page 19.
Reflexology
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Reflexologist Kathryn Ambrosini, NBCR, specializes in trauma and nervous system recovery—offering gentle, effective care for whole-body healing and balance. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Regenerative Medicine
NEOGENIX
16147 Lancaster Hwy, Ste 140 19475 Old Jetton Rd, Ste 102, Cornelius 704-727-6551
NeoGenixStemCells.com
All natural, non-surgical treatments for joint, muscle, tendon and ligament pain performed by experienced, board-certified medical doctors 100% dedicated to stem cell and PRP treatments. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 5.
Scalar Energy
SCALAR FREQUENCY HEALING
704-490-5483
CS@ScalarFrequencyHealing.com
ScalarFrequencyHealing.com
Scalar energy wellness and spiritual awareness aids. Simple, practical, inexpensive, and imprinted with targeted scalar frequencies to help the body repair itself or work with your consciousness. Free shipping. 15% discount with NAM522. See ad, page 7.
Sound &Vibrational Therapy
SPIRIT AND SOUND
Barbara Griggs, LSH, CVSMT
Barb.griggs04@gmail.com
704-603-7759
SpiritandSound.net
Sound and vibration, primary elements of creation. Clear and balance your mind, spirit and body through vibrations of tuning forks. Licensed spiritual healer, intuitive and Certified Vibrational Sound Master Teacher. Call for free consultation.
Spiritual Centers
HEARTLIGHT SPIRITUAL CENTER
Rev David Hulse, Spiritual Guide
7300 Mallard Creek Rd 704-599-1180
HeartLightCharlotte.org
We are a spirit-guided, heartcentered Christ-conscious, loving family providing an empowering, universal, Christ-centered message grounded in the teachings of metaphysics. Meditation 10:30am. Sunday service 11am. Email Shine@HeartLightCharlotte.org.
UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP OF LAKE NORMAN
Quaker Meeting House 625 South St, Davidson UULakeNorman.org 980-689-0630
We are a welcoming, inclusive spiritual community, united in worship, friendship, and social action. All are welcome to visit and connect. Sundays at 3pm.
UNITY OF CHARLOTTE
3200 Park Rd
Sundays at 11am
UnityofCharlotte.org
Vibrant, inclusive Sunday Celebration at 11am, led by co-ministers Revs Lisa and Jim. Inspiring messages/ upbeat music support your spiritual growth, well-being, and abundant living. Shared space with St. Luke’s Lutheran Church on Park Rd.
Stress Relief
HOLISTIC
HARMONY
4830 Monroe Rd, Unit B
704-936-0591
Hello@TheHolisticHarmony.life
TheHolisticHarmony.life
Integrative healing combining Thai massage, sound therapy, energy work, and stress reduction coaching. Transform anxiety into calm through personalized sessions and sustainable wellness practices. Charlotte's Oakhurst neighborhood. Book your appointment today. See ad, page 8.
Sustainability
SUSTAIN CHARLOTTE
SustainCharlotte.org
A nonprofit organization working to inspire choices that lead to healthy, equitable and vibrant communities across the Charlotte metro region for generations to come. Become a member today.
Weight Loss
CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS
INSTITUTE
Gastonia • 704-271-9757
Matthews/Ballantyne • 704-243-8560
CWLI.net
Developer of the “40 Day Transformation” system, a physician designed and administered functional approach with programming tailored to the unique metabolism needs of each individual, to provide safe and sustained weight loss. Call for a free consultation.
gaston county natural guide
Connecting Gaston County to leaders in natural health, wellness and green living. To find out how you can be included in the Gaston County Natural Guide, email Ads@ AwakeningCharlotte.com.
Organic Market & Supplements
ORGANIC MARKETPLACE
1012 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia 704-864-0605
OrganicMarketplaceNC.com
9am -7pm M/F, 9am6pm Sat. Reliable community partner, local source for education, organic foods, personal care, products, supplements, aromatherapy, organic wine/beer and pet products. See ad, page 20.
Classifieds
Weight Loss
CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS INSTITUTE
Lidia Adkins, CFMP, DC, PKT 216 S. New Hope Rd, Gastonia 704-271-9757 • CWLI.net
Developer of the “40 Day Transformation” system, a physician designed and administered functional approach with programming tailored to the unique metabolism needs of each individual, to provide safe and sustained weight loss. Call for a free consultation.
Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $40 for up to the first 20 words and $1.50 per word thereafter. To place a classified, email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte. com. Deadline is the 9th of the month.
Home Services
MAJOR APPLIANCE REPAIR – high quality repair at reasonable rates, service all major brands, call/text 336-539-1766.
Jobs
PART TIME MAGAZINE Delivery – needed primarily for Mecklenburg County delivering Natural Awakenings magazine. Fuel-efficient/ Hybrid/EV vehicle preferred. Work 1-2 days per month, paid per stop. Must be available during business hours. Info: 704-499-3327.
Seeking Rental
PHYSICIAN TO SUBLET – Room with space for exam table, small desk and 2 chairs with convenient parking for part-time use. 704-561-1302.
Leah Finlay and Jeff Nursey from TNYMB with one of our favorite retailers
Renee Southard and Emily Ehinger of Organic Marketplace
