As I sit down to write this letter, Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated exactly a week ago, and Tyler Robinson, the alleged assassin, are top of mind. So are the victims and perpetrators of hundreds of school shootings in the United States, from the one that happened in Colorado the same day to Columbine in 1999. Those who have died due to gang violence. Hijackers, and those killed in the September 11 attacks. The Southern Poverty Law Center has identified more than a thousand hate and antigovernment groups in the U.S. There are a lot of radicalizing forces out there, and a lot of those being radicalized are young men.
Memories of growing up somewhat near the Aryan Nations compound in Northern Idaho visited me this week. When I was in high school, I worked as a lifeguard at a waterslide park, and I still vividly remember turning around to tell the next person in line they could go down the slide and discovering I was waving on a young man with a shaved head and a swastika tattooed on his forehead. I had not felt that level of fear before, and I don’t think I have since; that entire day I was panicked trying to avoid him—just wanting the day to end so I could get home. It makes me wonder: Why was he so angry? What’s he doing now? How could he ever have gotten a job?
The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for planning, impulse control and decision making, doesn’t fully mature until around age 25. How many of these radicalized young men would have made different choices if they had been just a couple of years older?
It’s incredibly important for adults to model healthy conflict resolution and communication, to be able to disagree with someone peacefully, not to be consumed with anger, if for nothing else than the sake of those developing prefrontal cortexes. “Let cooler heads prevail” is the adage, and for many of us, that’s an easier or a more desirable approach with age. It won’t solve the problem, but I suspect it will help.
Wishing you healthy emotional modeling this October,
Shannon
Channeling
for Transformation, Guidance and Healing
Intuitive Channel and Healer David Harris provides transformational channeling and guidance that helps people clear blocks, find clarity, reconnect with their true self and heal at the root level. Each one-on-one channeling session brings through precise insight and powerful energetic healing designed to meet everyone’s unique needs, addressing both the spiritual and practical, helping clients move forward with confidence, clarity and renewed energy.
Sessions include clear channeled guidance to help embody one’s authentic self and purpose; deep healing energy and energetic clearing to release outdated patterns and clear energy; light language and vocal tones for deep transformation; and Akashic Records insight.
“I have come to experience personally that true healing is a journey through the self that must take place on several levels: mind, body and spirit,” says Harris. “Those that work with me have described the experience as transformational, healing on multiple levels (including ancestral) and very powerful. Often people experience personal breakthroughs, healing emotional releases or feeling at peace, restored and reconnected to the divine essence within.
“I provide a safe, reverent space for whatever you are seeking: clear insight, healing, inner peace or a deeper connection with your true self. It is my aim to help others connect more deeply with the truth of who you are, release what no longer serves, and live as a conscious creator—to help you embody your true purpose and shape a life rooted in truth, freedom and the infinite power within.”
For more information or to arrange for a session (mention Natural Awakenings to obtain a discount for initial session), call 704577-8977, email DavidHarrisSpirituality@gmail.com or visit DavidHarrisSpirituality.com. See CRG, page 42.
HeartLight Spiritual Center Hosts Concert
by Amy Steinberg
HeartLight Spiritual Center, in Charlotte, will present Steinberg Under the Stars—a unique concert by the electrifying Amy Steinberg whose work bridges the worlds of music spirituality and raw personal truth—at 7:30 p.m. on October 11 at the brand-new HeartLight Oasis Center. A beloved spiritual artist and powerhouse performer, Steinberg is known for her genredefying style that fuses pop, rock and spoken words with deeply inspirational lyrics.
With a voice that radiates passion and truth, her performances are transformational experiences as her songs celebrate the human journey, spiritual resilience and radical self-love.
“Music is a vehicle for transformation,” Steinberg says. “It connects us to something greater and reminds us that joy is not just possible—it’s essential.”
The HeartLight Oasis Center is a newly envisioned space designed to nurture community, creativity and conscious living. This concert marks an exciting new chapter, blending spiritual awakening with artistic expression in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Attendees are invited to bring their own beer or wine and enjoy a picnic-style evening with friends, old and new. Whether reconnecting with kindred spirits or seeking a night of uplifting music and connection, the event promises to be a special experience that reflects HeartLight’s ongoing commitment to provide meaningful events that nourish both the individual and the collective.
Tickets: advance general admission, $20; general admission at the door, $25; fire pit reserved seating, $30; VIP reserved tent seating, $40. Location: 7300 Mallard Creek Rd., Charlotte. For more information or to make reservations, leave a message at 704-669-7300, email Shine@HeartLightCharlotte.org or visit HeartLightCharlotte.org. See CRG, page 43.
Enroll in Carolinas Weight Loss Institute Biggest
Loser Contest
Winner, Josh, Lost 51.8lbs
Enrollment in the annual Carolinas Weight Loss Institute (CWLI) Biggest Loser contest continues through October 10. Participants, which need to be patients at one of CWLI’s partner clinics in Gastonia, Matthews, Columbus, Forest City or Morganton, North Carolina or Greenville, South Carolina, vie to win the $1,200 grand prize.
Dr. Lidia Adkins, CFMP, DC, PKT, the founder and CEO of the Carolinas Weight Loss Institute, has studied with some of the foremost authority figures in holistic and nutritional medicine in the United States. In 2010, she began developing a holistic, functional weight-loss protocol that takes in consideration the uniqueness of each individual, according to that person’s’ genetic makeup, metabolic predisposition and health status.
Now the Carolinas Weight loss Institute, the leading weight-loss clinic focusing on dealing with the functional causes of weight loss, specializes in delivering a personalized weightloss approach. It uses individualized nutritional protocols, proprietary weight-loss formulas and additional supplementation to address chemical and hormonal imbalances that lead to metabolic dysfunction.
For more information, call 704-271-9757, email InfoG@CWLI.net or visit CWLI.net. See CRG, page 43.
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Weight Loss
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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.
To place a listing call 704-499-3327 or email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com
Helps Find Energetic Roots to Disease
One of the more common clinical encounters Dr. Kamau Kokayi, owner of Kokayi Health, has had in practicing holistic primary care for 35-plus years is for a previously healthy individual to find they are developing ailments that don’t respond to simple surface prescriptions from their physician. A diagnosis may be difficult and they may find themselves dealing with an intermittent or chronic dysfunction and inflammation.
“Pretty quickly they will find themselves with a specialist to rule out more ominous disease states,” he says. “While the specialist is digging deeper into exploring what is happening at the tissue or organ level, what if the problem has more to do with an imbalance in their energy production and distribution. What if there was a life event or encounter with a ‘toxic’ element or situation that altered the energetic template that underlies the biochemical systems of the body.
“Whether you are prescribed drugs or nutritional supplements, there is a good chance you are not getting to the ‘heart of the matter.’ While I was at Yale Medical School, I wrote my thesis on Physics and Medicine and reviewed the documentation for approaching and treating the body at the level of the electromagnetic field, that is as fundamental to our mind/body as water and carbon.”
His approach includes acupuncture, homeopathy, applied kinesiology, Energetic Psychology and Emotional Freedom Technique, reiki, Pranic Healing, magnets and the use of bioenergetic scans like Energy4life and Biowell technology.
Location: 726 East Blvd., 2nd Fl., Charlotte. For more information or to make an appointment, call 310-713-5764 or visit KokayiHealth.com. See ad, page 12.
2024
Holistic Harmony Offers Integrative
Thai Massage
Holistic Harmony, in Charlotte, offers Integrative Thai massage that reflects the more traditional energetic approach by incorporating complementary modalities of sound healing with singing bowls. The vibrational frequencies penetrate muscle tissue while the practitioner works, creating deeper relaxation and more effective tension release, and allowing for gentler pressure while achieving more profound results than massage alone.
Traditional Thai massage is sometimes reduced to aggressive stretching or foot-walking techniques. Authentic Thai massage can be a gentle, meditative practice, a deep, sustained practice that utilizes feet, knees and full body weight.
Rooted in Buddhist medicine, Thai massage approaches the body from a fundamentally different perspective than Western health care as it recognizes the inherent wholeness within each person. The Buddhist medical philosophy views symptoms as signs of energy imbalance rather than pathology, shifting the practitioner’s intention from “fixing” problems to restoring natural harmony. This healing bodywork focuses on our “sen lines”—energy pathways that, when properly addressed, improve circulation, reduce chronic tension and regulate the nervous system.
A study in the American Journal of Health Promotion found that Tibetan singing bowl meditation significantly reduced tension, anger, fatigue and depression in participants, with those new to sound meditation experiencing the greatest benefits.
Holistic Harmony’s integrative approach emphasizes mindful, sustained contact rather than forceful manipulation. This Buddhist-informed perspective honors each client’s innate capacity for healing, working with the body’s natural wisdom. Sessions include breathing guidance, energy awareness and personalized attention to unique tension patterns, creating lasting nervous system regulation rather than temporary relief.
Location: 4830 Monroe Rd., Unit B, Charlotte. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-936-0591 or visit TheHolisticHarmony.life. See ad, page 8.
October is Our Last Chance for Fall Gardens
October is the final month to plant our fall gardens with plants as it’s generally too late for seeds, and the American Beauty Garden Center, in Charlotte, is ready to assist to help customers grow such cold-weather crops as broccoli, cauliflower, lettuces, collards and more. The business, which is open seven days a week, stocks organic plants and even garlic bulbs, along with organic soil amendments to prepare and fertilize soil through the growing season.
“I personally plant Garlic Bulbs on Halloween each year (and harvest them in June),” says owner Alan Corder. “If an outdoor garden is not what you have in mind, we have a full selection of hydroponics and grow lights, plus we offer custom grow room design. And the seeds we offer are always organic and non-GMO, plus we have a great selection of heirloom seeds, too. We’re here to help make you a successful gardener!”
Location: 4400 E. Independence Blvd, Charlotte. For more information, call 704334-8651 or visit ABGardenCenter.com or on Instagram @beauty.american. See CRG, page 41.
Overeaters Anonymous to Present IDEA Workshop
Overeaters Anonymous will host an International Day of Experiencing Abstinence (IDEA) from compulsive eating in-person workshop from 12:30 to 3 p.m. on November 15 at St. Stephen United Methodist Church, in Charlotte. The public is invited to the free event to enjoy an afternoon of games, speakers and fellowship as well as to learn more about the program generally.
IDEA Day is celebrated the third full weekend in November and encourages members worldwide to begin or reaffirm their abstinence from compulsive eating. This event provides a fun way for community members to learn about and engage with Overeaters Anonymous and its offerings.
Overeaters Anonymous, offering resources and community to anyone that wants to stop eating compulsively, provides a program of recovery from compulsive overeating, food restricting and other obsessive food behaviors using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of OA, which are patterned after those of Alcoholics Anonymous. Beside this and other events held throughout the year, several in-person meetings take place every week throughout the Charlotte region to provide continual fellowship and support to participants.
Location: 6800 Sardis Rd., Charlotte. For more information, visit PiedmontIntergroup.org. For meeting information, visit Tinyurl.com/OAPiedmontMeetings. See CRG, page 39.
Sutliff Offers In-Person and Virtual Psychic Readings
October is historically a very popular time for readings as well as through the end of the year as people get ready for the new year. To accommodate those interested, Kelle Sutliff, an internationally renowned psychic medium, psychic investigator, speaker, author and owner of Kelle Sutliff Psychic Medium, based in Lake Wylie, South Carolina, provides both in-person and virtual reading sessions.
Sutliff has demonstrated in conducting readings worldwide for 20-plus years that the psychic world is very real, and her gifts and insights have provided inspiration and comfort to many people dealing with grief and loss. She has appeared on numerous TV and radio programs worldwide and is a soughtafter psychic investigator, having worked with families and law enforcement departments on current and cold cases with great success.
She’s known for making accurate predictions on world events and within her clients’ lives, which include international celebrities, professionals and business executives.
Her first book, Listen Up! The Other Side IS Talking, has won the internationally acclaimed Reader’s Favorite and Mom’s Choice book awards. Her more recent book Spirit Speaks Within You has become an international bestseller, has won the Mom’s Choice, Book Excellence and NYC Big Book Award in the Mind Body and Spirit category.
Location: 4371 Charlotte Hwy., Ste. 22, in Clover, SC. For more information or to arrange for an in-person or virtual reading, call 978-4208213 or visit PsychicMediumKelle.com. Both books are available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and other bookstores. See CRG, page 42.
Sustainable Halloween Costumes
Dressing up for Halloween is a fun way for kids and adults to express themselves, try on new personalities or celebrate their favorite movie characters, but the merriment may come with a hefty environmental price tag. Too many of us buy ready-made, fast-fashion costumes, wear them once and throw them away. Store-bought costumes tend to be made with unsustainable materials such as plastic and polyester, which can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills, causing harmful microplastics to enter our waterways.
The eco-friendly alternative is to create a costume from items we already have or will use again. That means ditching the plastic, glitter and chemical-laden makeup. It is an opportunity to dial up our creativity and doit-yourself spirit.
• Check the closet, thrift stores and online marketplaces. Outgrown clothes can be
repurposed for a unique boho or witchy look. Layer items in unexpected combinations to make everyday garments take on new personalities. Mix colors. Add a vest. Tie a scarf around the head. Wear multiple hats and mismatched belts.
• Go natural for makeup or effects. Choose eco-friendly paints or natural dyes, including black tea, coffee, turmeric and paprika to color fabrics or decorate handmade, creative costumes. For witchy green skin, slather on a face mask. For rosy cheeks and lips, use a slice of beet to stain the skin. Blend vibrant, shimmery mineral powders for eyes, face or lips. Use eco-friendly face paint kits, such as those available at NaturalEarthPaint.com
• Use household items. Cardboard boxes embellished with foil scraps and reused lids make great robots, astronauts or knights in armor. A white sheet with
cut-out eyes is the quintessential ghost. Blankets and shower curtains can be fashioned into superhero capes.
• Swap or borrow. Get together with family and friends and choose from a pile of costumes from years gone by. Have fun tweaking them and making them new again.
• Handcraft a mask. Gather leaves, flowers, pinecones, feathers, acorns and other natural specimens, as well as paper bags, recycled paper, felt fabric and cardboard. Make a sturdy shape for the base of the mask and cut out an oval for the eyes, then glue the decorative elements. This is a great craft project for kids.
Eco-Friendly Costume Ideas
• Garden or Forest Fairy: Wear practice clothing from dance class and layer it with colorful scarves, fake plants, leaves and flowers. Cut wings out of poster board.
• Mother Nature: Wear something green and make a crown from pinecones, sticks or leaves.
• Bat or Owl: Make wings from an old umbrella and use fabric scraps for feathers.
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Yaroslav Shuraev from Pexels/ CanvaPro
Shade Investments for a Cooler Future
A shade map produced by the University of California, Los Angeles, and American Forests reveals a critical shade shortage in the United States. This map, covering more than 360 cities and towns, highlights where shade from buildings and vegetation is present. City planners can use the interactive tool to strategically place shade trees to mitigate rising temperatures. A 2020 study published in GeoHealth found that extreme heat contributes to 12,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S., a number that could rise to 50,000 under moderate warming scenarios.
The map illustrates how investments in shade may impact temperatures at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. in specific locations. Trees deliver 25 times more shade than buildings at noon, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing extreme heat. The map’s creators also offer real-world examples of the benefits of shade coverage, such as on school routes in Austin, Texas, public transit stops in Detroit, Michigan, and public parks in Phoenix, Arizona.
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Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte to Host
the Tashi Kyil
Tibetan Buddhist Monks
Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte (IMCC) will host the Tashi Kyil Tibetan Buddhist Monks between October 27 and 31.
Tashi Kyil monks will create a sacred sand mandala as a form of Tibetan Buddhist meditation, symbolizing impermanence and the universe, which is then ceremonially destroyed, in the Narthex at Park Road Baptist Church. All are welcome to view the mandala being made and to purchase handmade items crafted by Tibetan refugees, including scarves, jewelry and prayer flags, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., October 28 to 30 and from 9:30 a.m. to noon on October 31.
The monks use colored sand to create intricate, symbolic patterns that embody spiritual themes such as compassion and peace. Visitors are invited to witness the lengthy creation process and the final dissolution ceremony, where the sand is swept into a pile, representing the impermanent nature of life, and then deposited into a body of water to spread its healing energies.
An evening of chants, meditation and a Dharma talk will be presented from 7 to 9 p.m. on October 29 at the Park Road Baptist Church. The event will open at 6:30 p.m. for the sale of handmade items crafted by Tibetan refugees and to view the mandala.
The Tashi Kyil Monks, part of the Gelug sect led by His Holiness The Dali Lama, are touring the U.S. to teach and inform about compassion, Tibetan culture and to raise funds for their monastery and the many children they care for and educate. Their monastery in Tibet was destroyed and was rebuilt in India in 1967, where they could freely practice.
For 15 years, IMCC has hosted free meditations and Dharma talks for people of all faiths and beliefs. Meetings are held in person and
on Zoom every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at Park Road Baptist Church. IMCC offers retreats, classes, and opportunities to study and practice mindfulness, with the intention of integrating wisdom and manifesting compassion in all aspects of life. Insight Meditation is relevant in our current challenging times as a means for quieting the mind, trusting the heart and living with ease.
Free admission, donations appreciated. Proceeds from sale of handmade items provide funding for their monastery. Location: 3900 Park Rd., Charlotte. For more information, email Info@IMCCharlotte.org or visit IMCCharlotte.org. See ad, this page.
Tashi Kyil Buddhist Monks
October 29, 2025 6:30-9pm
IMCCharlotte is hosting monks from Labrang Tashi Kyil Monastery to share Tibetan culture through chants, meditation, and a Dharma talk. Handmade items by Tibetan refugees, including scarves, jewelry, and prayer flags, will also be sold to raise funds for their monastery.
IMCCharlotte is hosting monks from Labrang Tashi Kyil Monastery to share Tibetan culture through chants, meditation, and a Dharma talk. See their sand peace mandala and peruse handmade items from Tibetan refugees for sale to raise funds for their monastery.
DATE: Oct. 29 TIME: Doors open 6:30 PROGRAM: 7:00 – 9:00 pm LOCATION: Park Road Baptist Church, 3900 Park Road Charlotte, NC 28209 COST: Free Donations for monastery appreciated.
Doors open 6:30pm, Program 7-9pm Park Road Baptist Church, 3900 Park Road, Charlotte Free – Donations for Monastery appreciated
Insight Meditation Community of Charlotte IMCCharlotte.org
Food as Medicine in the Fall Season of Metal
In the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the seasons relate to the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood. The fall season corresponds to the metal element, which governs the lungs and large intestine. These organs are responsible for respiration, immunity and elimination, processes that help us take in what we need and release what we do not.
This energy of letting go can be seen in nature when the leaves fall off the trees to prepare for a cycle of renewal. The metal element encourages us to cultivate clarity, breathe in new inspiration and to let go of that which no longer serves us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. By aligning diet with the metal element, individuals can strengthen immunity, support healthy elimination and move through the fall season with resilience and balance.
Dryness often increases during the fall season, which can weaken the lungs and make the body more susceptible to coughs, colds and skin irritation. To support the metal element, TCM emphasizes eating foods that moisten, protect and strengthen the respiratory and digestive systems.
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Seasonal fruits such as pears, apples and persimmons are excellent for replenishing fluids and soothing dryness. White-colored foods including daikon radish, turnips, cauliflower, onions and garlic are also associated with metal to benefit lung function and increase immunity.
Helping the Nervous System Function Correctly
Dysautonomia is the term used to describe a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates a large portion of the body’s functions that occur automatically, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, digestion and temperature control. A variety of symptoms can be felt when it is not working properly, including dizziness, fatigue, fainting, chronic pain, headaches, sweating, shakiness, breathlessness, nausea, vision issues, tachycardia and more.
There are many types of dysautonomia, but the most common are postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, orthostatic hypotension and neurocardiogenic or vasovagal syncope. Dysautonomia can develop after concussions, viruses, pregnancy, trauma and a variety of other conditions. Unfortunately, many patients are misdiagnosed for years before learning about dysautonomia.
To ensure balance as the outdoor temperatures drop, eat warm, cooked foods. Soups and stews prepared with root vegetables, whole grains, including oats and rice, and legumes provide grounded nourishment. Warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon and cloves enhance circulation while protecting against seasonal chills. Nuts and seeds add additional stability and energy.
Jennifer Finegold, L.Ac, MS, is the owner of Fiery Sage Healing, specializing in five element acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Location:11220 Elm Ln., Ste. 200, Charlotte. For more information, call 910-444-1893, email fsHealing@gmail.com or visit fsHealing.com.
In traditional medicine, medications are commonly prescribed to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure. Patients are also encouraged to increase fluid and salt intake, wear compression socks or participate in physical therapy and gradual exercise programs.
Functional neurologists have a different approach and focus on the concept of neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change based on environmental, emotional and physical stimuli. They conduct a thorough assessment to pinpoint areas of the brain that are dysfunctional and the root cause of a patient’s symptoms.
Once test results are in, a customized treatment plan is created to restore normal autonomic nervous system function. The goal is to create positive changes in the brain, leaving patients with little to no symptoms and back to living a normal, healthy life.
Lauren Brindisi, DC, DACNB, is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist and the clinical director of Carolina Functional Neurology Center Charlotte, located at 16905 Northcross Dr., Ste. 150, in Huntersville. For more information or to schedule an initial consultation ($50), call 704-661-0085 or visit CarolinaFNC.com.
Keeping the Lymphatic System in
Order
Lymphatic drainage massage (LDM) acts as a detox for the body, encouraging the drainage of lymph nodes and movement of lymph fluids to remove toxins. This can be especially helpful with sinus build-up that needs to be drained for assisting breathing.
LDM boosts the immune system and helps to remove swelling, which is particularly beneficial for those dealing with lymphedema, fibromyalgia or any other conditions causing fluid buildup. However, it is not recommended for those with blood clots, active infections, kidney failure or heart failure.
The massage stimulates and opens the lymph nodes, which then filter and return the cleaned fluid to the bloodstream. This, in turn, promotes proper circulation and drainage of the whole lymphatic system.
It can also assist in recovery from certain surgeries by helping to clear out lymphatic fluid that has accumulated due to inflammation resulting from the surgery. Another benefit is reducing the appearance of cellulite and improving overall skin tone. Thus, the patient feels remarkably lighter and refreshed after a treatment.
Jessica Peach is the owner of British Massage and Wellness Center, located at 2210 Coronation Blvd., Ste. C, in Charlotte. For appointments and more information, call 704-5721310, email Info@BritishMassage.com or visit BritishMassage.com.
Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infant Health
A study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology highlights the powerful role breastfeeding plays in building a healthy gut microbiome in infants. Although infants cannot digest human milk oligosaccharides, these components nourish beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium infantis, a species that reduces inflammation and supports immune development.
Breast milk also contains secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), an antibody that blocks harmful bacteria and viruses from attaching to the gut lining, and reduces inflammation in infants. Higher SIgA intake in infancy leads to healthier immune patterns and may provide better protection against allergies and infections. Breast milk also includes living bacteria and other bioactive molecules that contribute to the early seeding of the gut, helping to set the stage for the infant’s future microbiome.
Laboratory Tests for Holistic Health
The rise of functional medicine, integrative medicine and other forms of holistic health care has increased the demand for specialized laboratory testing. According to the National Institutes of Health, 37 percent of American adults use at least one complementary or integrative health approach.
To meet this demand, Labcorp has launched a new specialized testing panel to help providers identify underlying imbalances and support preventive care strategies. This panel includes an advanced cardiometabolic biomarker panel; a comprehensive nutrient panel; a longevity and vitality panel analyzing 71 biomarkers related to aging, inflammation and organ function; men’s and women’s comprehensive hormone panels focused on reproductive and endocrine health; and men’s and women’s whole-body wellness panels with more than 75 biomarkers related to various bodily systems.
The new service enables testing of more than 1,000 biomarkers, providing insights into a patient’s health, from heart function and hormonal balance to micronutrient levels and overall wellness. In addition, Labcorp Whole Health Solutions offers healthcare providers consultation services, digital test ordering, tools to interpret results, and analytics to identify high-risk patients and improve healthcare delivery.
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Betty Marlin on
Gut Assessments and Evaluations
As an Advanced Practice Primary Care Nurse, Betty Marlin recognizes and appreciates the importance of maintaining a healthy gut. She emphasizes a number of factors that she follows when performing an abdominal assessment and determining if referral to a primary care physician, gastroenterologist, or naturopathic full-body energy tester is necessary.
What is your first step in this process?
A complete family history is the foundation. I look for allergies, autoimmune disorders, traumatic injuries or abuse affecting the gut, high levels of stress impacting bowel or bladder health and poor sleep patterns (less than seven hours per night). Abnormal bowel habits are significant— either the absence of daily movements or excessive movements of more than four to five times per day. Concerning stool characteristics include unusual colors (green, black, grey, tan, or yellow) and textures that are hard, sticky, mucous-like, or watery. I also consider maternal prenatal history— Lyme disease, cancer, infections, parasites
or toxic chemical exposures may cross the placenta and create issues that surface later in life.
Do you research anything else before the assessment?
Equally important is an environmental history. I ask about furry pets in the household, especially in bedrooms or kitchens, and outdoor exposure in grassy or wooded areas where ticks and mosquitos thrive. I
review vaccine history, food preparation and storage practices, water quality for drinking and cooking, and access to clean air to ensure adequate oxygenation for cellular health.
What
about the physical assessment?
When listening for bowel sounds, I expect two to four per 15 seconds in each quadrant. Abnormalities include absent sounds, dripping or gurgling above the diaphragm or hot/cold discolored abdominal areas. Additional red flags include trapped air, bloating, hard or shifting masses, tenderness, sharp pain, lethargy or irritability.
Any other important steps?
As the saying goes, “death begins in the bowel”. It is vital to act promptly—pray about your course, make gradual changes by introducing one new item per week (tips from Natural Awakenings September “Gut Health” issue) and keep all living and food storage areas disinfected. Contact a qualified provider within one to two days if symptoms worsen. For long-term healing, consult experienced guides such as Charlotte area, “Team Rayzorgainz” for holistic wellness counseling, and lean on the encouragement of scripture, including Romans 12:1-3 and Psalm 103:1-5.
Nurse Betty Marlin is an Advanced Practice Nurse, certified Adult/Child Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner and owner of Primary Health-Care of Charlotte, located at 508 Beatties Ford Rd., in Charlotte. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704347-1172 or visit GetWellnessCare.com. For more information on Team Rayzorgainz, visit Rayzorgainz.com.
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Activating Neuroplasticity
The Brain's Ultimate Rewind Button
by Hannah Tytus
The brain has an amazing ability to rewire itself by strengthening, rerouting or growing new connections in response to learning, experience or injury. This continuous reshaping is known as neuroplasticity. The changes can be positive, such as regaining movement or speech after a stroke or learning a new skill. Sometimes they are neutral, and other times they can be harmful when maladaptive patterns reinforce chronic pain or anxiety. Fortunately, the brain can grow and adapt at any age, and there are many ways to help it thrive. Nourishing foods, mindful movement, meditation, social connection, clean air and restful sleep are everyday choices that can nurture the brain in powerful ways.
Neuroplasticity Across the Lifespan
It has long been believed that children’s brains are more malleable as they grow, and that once they reach adulthood, the brain stops evolving. But new research suggests that this may not be the full story. While the brains of developing children are certainly very adaptable, the adult brain is far from fixed.
A variety of influences, including stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, medications, environmental stimulation, learning and aging, can reshape how brain cells are built and function. These factors may trigger changes in the size or structure of brain regions, shift the brain’s chemical makeup, alter the shape of individual neurons and even rewire networks of connections, sparking the growth of new neurons in a process called neurogenesis.
Scientists have long known that injuries, chronic stress and the natural process of aging can take a toll on the brain. Yet, new discoveries in neuroscience and integrative medicine point to the remarkable potential for repair and renewal at every phase of life.
Healthy Fats
“Nutrition is the foundation of everything in health. You can’t build anything in the body without good food,” says Dr. Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist, researcher and author of Dementia Demystified: The Definitive Guide to Resurrecting Your Brain, Reversing Cognitive Decline and Regaining Your Memory. Contrary to decades of marketing campaigns for low-fat and fat-free diets, Toups explains, healthy fats are essential for brain health. The spongy white and grey matter of the brain, where all the thinking and messaging happens, is made primarily of fat.
Found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as in walnuts and fish oil supplements, omega-3 fatty acids are some of the healthiest fats, increasing blood flow in the brain and nourishing its physical structures to help improve learning, memory and cognitive well-being.
Mindful Movement
“The most validated ways to support neuroplasticity are exercise and meditation—and both are free,” says Toups. Exercise is wellknown to protect the brain and boost thinking skills. One way it may do this is by supporting the growth of new neurons and strengthening connections within the hippocampus, an area in the brain involved in the formation of fresh memories and the recall of
past experiences. A 2017 study published in Experimental Gerontology found that regular exercise significantly increased hippocampus volume, while nonactive participants showed a shrinking hippocampus.
In addition to strength and cardio training, exercise that incorporates mindful and creative components may enrich the benefits. Engaging the body and mind at the same time can strengthen neural networks and support long-term cognitive function. Long walks, yoga classes or playful sessions with the kids or grandchildren are excellent ways
to support the link between body and brain. Studies show that tai chi, a mindful movement practice, may be even more effective than regular exercise in protecting cognitive function because it increases brain activation in regions associated with motor function and focus, and is accessible to those with mobility limitations.
Daily Meditation
A regular mindfulness practice supports neuroplasticity, making it easier to regulate emotions and handle stress. A 2024 review found that regular meditation can physically reshape the brain, strengthening areas tied to focus, emotional control and self-awareness. One reason for this is meditation’s effect on a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This molecule acts like fertilizer for brain cells, helping them grow, form new connections and remain healthy. Meditation increases BDNF, and higher levels of BDNF are linked not only to sharper learning and memory, but also to longer lasting brain health.
Additional research has demonstrated that even a short daily meditation session can increase gray matter density in regions tied to learning, memory and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes help reduce stress reactivity and support long-term resilience. Even if formal seated meditation is not feasible, simple mindful presence can help. “I try to tell people to find small moments to come into their body, come into the moment and be present,” Toups advises. “You can do that by washing the dishes. You don’t need to sit in lotus position and chant for an hour.”
Creative Activities
“Every time you learn something new or do a novel task, you are promoting neuroplasticity,” explains Toups. Learning new skills, from juggling to speaking a new language, produces measurable changes in brain structure, particularly in brain matter volume. These changes can occur in both earlylearning phases and long-term practice, underscoring the brain’s capacity for adaptation throughout life.
Making music and dancing can strengthen connections in the brain; even the act of listening to music has been shown to enhance neural plasticity and cognitive flexibility. Toups recommends rocking out to a favorite song in the kitchen and choreographing a few dance moves.
Restorative Sleep
Rapid eye movement (REM), a stage of sleep marked by increased brain activity and vivid dreaming, plays an important role in neuroplasticity. During REM, the brain actively prunes unhelpful neural connections and reinforces others, supporting brain development, the learning of new skills and memory improvement.
To support consistent REM sleep, aim for seven to nine hours of shuteye and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time. A good night’s rest after learning a new skill or information can help that lesson integrate into the brain, supporting behavioral change.
Clean Air
Keeping the air in the home clean is important for overall brain health. Research suggests that mold toxicity may be a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease,
Three Ways To Boost Neuroplasticity Naturally
by Hannah Tytus
Meditate for 10 minutes. Sit down with eyes closed. Notice the breath and observe thoughts without judgment as they travel through the mind. Allow feelings of discomfort, frustration or impatience to come and go, knowing that they are part of the process that leads to increased self-awareness, enhanced emotional regulation and improved focus.
Get involved in the community. Join a crafting meet-up, group hiking excursion, dance class or volunteering event. Activities that allow us to socialize, move our bodies and learn new things are excellent for the brain.
Learn something new. Play a game, learn a new art form or read something challenging. Engaging the mind and body, such as moving our fingers while crafting, can help the brain forge new connections.
after researchers discovered traces of fungi inside the central nervous system of many Alzheimer’s patients—an infection that was absent in healthy individuals. Mold toxicity in the home can elicit an immune response and harm the brain. For example, a 2020 study found that black mold inhalation can cause inflammation in the hippocampus and reduce neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.
Practicing clean air habits can help assuage the risks of mold exposure at home. These include investing in an air purifier, ventilating regularly by opening windows, using exhaust fans and maintaining household ducts. Mold concerns can be investigated with a simple at-home testing kit, followed by professional testing and remediation, if needed.
Light Therapy
“Photobiomodulation is a powerful way to create neuroplasticity, both quickly and over the long term,” says Dr. Lew Lim, founder of the Vielight photobiomodulation (PBM) device, which has been studied in collaboration with universities and
medical institutions, including the University of Toronto, Harvard Medical School and Mount Sinai Hospital.
PBM, also called light therapy, uses gentle red or near-infrared light to stimulate brain cells, boost the energy-producing parts of cells known as mitochondria, improve blood flow and calm inflammation. “When we activate the mitochondria with PBM, the mitochondria actually release growth factors, which support growth of new cells in the brain,” Lim explains.
According to Lim, PBM may help the brain protect and repair its neurons, encourage the growth of new connections and support the clearing of harmful waste proteins linked to cognitive decline. He asserts that certain light pulse frequencies, such as 40 hertz, may also help tune brainwave patterns that are important for memory and learning. While most research so far has been in small human studies or animal models, the results suggest that regular PBM could strengthen the brain’s natural ability to adapt and rewire itself. Some people use PBM as part of a daily routine to keep their minds
Oksana
sharp, while others use it to heal from more serious brain injuries.
Finding Community
Research shows that staying connected to others offers powerful protection for the brain. Older adults that feel lonely or spend long stretches without social contact face about a 50 percent higher risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, even when other health factors are taken into account. One long-term study found that memory and thinking skills declined 20 percent faster in those that reported feeling lonely.
B eing socially active can help guard the brain against decline. For 25 years, the Northwestern University SuperAging Program has studied people in their 80s and beyond with nimble minds that work as well as people decades younger. Brain
scans show that these study participants called SuperAgers do not exhibit the usual thinning of the brain’s outer layer normally seen with age, and one key area involved in attention and decision-making is thicker than even in middle-aged adults.
Under the microscope, SuperAger brain cells are larger, better connected and show fewer signs of Alzheimer’s damage or inflammation. These resilient individuals tend to be very social, valuing close relationships and staying engaged with others—habits that may work hand-in-hand with their unusually healthy brain structures to help protect thinking skills late in life.
Even a weekly coffee with a friend or joining a class can be powerful brain fuel. People with rich social lives, including those that regularly share time with friends, family and communities, tend to keep their minds sharper for longer.
An Evolving Brain
The brain is never truly fixed. It is a living, adapting system that can grow stronger, sharper and more resilient at any age, and we can guide those changes. Whether through movement, nutrition, light therapy, meditation or meaningful connection, every choice we make can help shape and rewire the mind for the better. The science is clear: it is never too late to nurture the brain’s potential. Embrace neuroplasticity as a lifelong journey and let each new day be an opportunity to learn, adapt and thrive.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and former writer at the National Institutes of Health. She also hosts “Root Shock”, a podcast exploring how cultural and systemic forces shape our understanding of health.
Feeding Our Brain Power
What To Eat for Mental Acuity
by Maya Whitman
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about one in 10 adults aged 45 and older experience worsening memory loss or cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. A 2022 study in JAMA Neurology indicates that 22 percent of adults over age 65 experience mild cognitive impairment. Our dietary choices significantly impact brain longevity, and what we avoid is equally important.
The late pioneering researcher Dr. Martha Clare Morris developed the MIND Diet,
which merges the Mediterranean and DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diets to enhance cognitive function with plenty of delicious versatility. A 2015 study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that strict adherence to the MIND Diet can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 53 percent, while moderate adherence can lower it by 35 percent.
The MIND Diet is a stress-free, lifelong plan with bountiful menu options, including fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole
grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil. It accommodates gluten-free and plant-based preferences. With satiating breakfast options like Greek yogurt or scrambled eggs, spicy chili for lunch and fun dinner burrito bowls, this diet is flexible and beginner-friendly, allowing for moderate consumption of pasta, potatoes and bread, with a focus on wholegrain, complex carbohydrates over refined ones. It also recommends oven roasting instead of high-heat frying.
A Lifelong Investment
“You can never be too young to embrace brain-healthy dietary strategies in support of longevity. Early adoption of brain-healthy eating habits may also enhance cognitive reserve, strengthening the brain’s resilience to neuropathological damage over time,” says neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, founder and CEO of the Willeumier Center for Advanced Research in Neurotrauma & Brain Rehabilitation, in California.
Embracing variety is important. “I like to have people think of brain-healthy food groups, not superfoods,” states Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and author of The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food. Fenn notes that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than men “for reasons that have nothing to do with living longer. Alzheimer’s can start in the brain up to 30 years before the first symptoms. It’s never too early or too late. Data shows that switching to a brain-healthy diet can have benefits even in one’s 70s.”
The Link Neuroscience Institute, in California, recommends eating more colorful berries, fatty fish such as sardines, dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and a moderate amount of high-quality dark chocolate to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as mood disorders, including long-term depression. They also advise against consuming processed and fried foods, sugar, alcohol and sodium.
Cutting Out the Culprits
According to Willeumier, even a modest reduction in the intake of processed foods, including packaged products, sweetened cereals, deli meats and sugary beverages, can have a positive impact on brain health. She recommends the complete elimination of alcoholic beverages. “Neuroimaging studies, including the Whitehall II Study, which followed 550 participants over a 30-year period
tracking alcohol intake and cognitive performance, suggest that there is no protective effect of alcohol on the brain, even from light drinking. Eliminate alcohol for the preservation of your long-term brain health.”
Certain foods accelerate brain aging, and Fenn recommends limiting or eliminating fast and fried foods, sugar, artificially sweetened drinks, ultra-processed products and
foods that are excessively high in saturated fat like butter and some cheeses. Certain cooking techniques are also problematic. “Frying, searing and grilling directly over high heat creates inflammatory particles called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs,” explains Fenn. “Think low-andslow when you cook—low heat, slow cooking, braising, poaching, steaming and indirect grilling.”
Willeumier notes that these healthy eating habits can have an immediate effect on brain function by influencing neurotransmitter production, stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and improving cerebral blood flow, all of which can also help us to live longer, maintain our focus and thinking skills, and feel happier.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
SARDINIAN LENTIL SOUP WITH HERBS
Fresh herbs are the stars of this fragrant soup. When shopping for celery, look for a bunch that has plenty of tender leaves, which add flavor and aroma to the dish.
1 large fennel bulb, cored and finely diced (about 1½ cups), fronds finely chopped and reserved
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
½ cup dry white wine or water
8 cups vegetable, chicken or beef stock
¾ cup green lentils
¾ cup fregola sarda whole-wheat orzo, or other small, whole-grain pasta
1 large bunch Italian parsley, stems finely chopped, leaves coarsely chopped (about 1 cup each)
⅓ cup fresh tarragon, finely chopped
2 Tbsp chives, finely chopped
Pecorino cheese to taste, optional
Lemon wedges
Warm the oil in a medium pot over medium-low heat. Add the celery stalks, fennel bulb, onion, oregano, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring often, for 8 to 12 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant for about 1 minute. Add the wine and cook for 2 to 4 minutes until the liquid is almost completely reduced.
Add the broth and bring soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the lentils, fregola sarda and parsley stems. Cook uncovered at a low simmer until the lentils are tender and the pasta is al dente (soft but with a chewy bite), about 20 to 30 minutes. Stir often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
Just before serving, stir in the parsley and celery leaves, fennel fronds, tarragon and chives. Grate or shave Pecorino atop and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Store leftover soup in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. The soup will thicken as it rests; add water or broth when reheating and an additional handful of fresh herbs before serving.
Recipe courtesy of Annie Fenn.
Courtesy Annie Fenn
SALMON AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
2 wild-caught salmon fillets
1 lb fresh asparagus, washed
2 Roma tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1 head butter lettuce, divided in half
½ lemon, sliced in two
1 to 2 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
1 Tbsp fresh or dried thyme leaves
Sprinkle of oregano Himalayan salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled
Place salmon in a baking dish and squeeze an even amount of lemon juice on each fillet. Season filets evenly with chopped garlic and thyme leaves. Add Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake salmon in the oven for 25 minutes.
Place asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil on top. Add Himalayan sea salt and black pepper to taste. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 15 minutes.
Serve salmon on a bed of butter lettuce with chopped Roma tomatoes, avocado and roasted asparagus on the side.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.
Gen AI/CanvaPro
PROTEIN-PACKED PANCAKES WITH WILD BLUEBERRIES
YIELD: 3 SERVINGS
1 cup old-fashioned, rolled oats
1 medium ripe banana
2 large eggs
½ cup cottage cheese (nonfat or whole), plus more for serving, optional
¼ cup water
½ cup almond, buckwheat, hazelnut or quinoa flour
¼ cup protein powder, optional
¼ cup hemp seeds, plus more for sprinkling
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp kosher salt
¾ cup frozen wild blueberries (about 1 Tbsp per pancake)
Yogurt to taste, optional
Fresh berries or mashed frozen berries for toppings, optional
Pure maple syrup, warmed, optional
Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled
Place the oats in a blender until ground into a coarse flour with a texture like almond meal. Add the banana, eggs, cottage cheese and ¼ cup water and blend on high until smooth and no pieces of banana remain. Add the flour, protein powder, hemp seeds, baking powder, cinnamon and salt, in that order. Blend just until combined. Set aside while toppings are prepared.
Check the batter. If it is too thick to pour, add water 1 teaspoon at a time until it has a pourable consistency but not too thin—these should be thick, hearty pancakes.
Warm a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil, swirling to distribute evenly. Measure ¼ cup of batter for each pancake, about three per large skillet. Scatter 1 heaping tablespoon of blueberries over each pancake, pressing slightly so they adhere. Cook until the underside is crispy and brown and the center is set, about 3 to 4 minutes. Using a rigid spatula, carefully flip the pancake and cook until golden brown on the other side and the center is dry, another 3 to 4 minutes.
Serve right away or transfer to a plate and place in the oven to keep warm. Repeat, using the remaining batter and berries. Serve hot, dollop with yogurt, a sprinkle of hemp seeds and more berries on top. Drizzle with maple syrup.
Courtesy Annie Fenn
Store leftover pancake batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The batter will thicken as it sits, so thin with 1 teaspoon of water at a time.
Recipe courtesy of Annie Fenn.
GREEN JUICE: MORNING HYDRATION BRAIN BOOST
YIELD: 1 SERVING
4 to 5 stalks of celery
½ to 1 whole cucumber, peeled
½ cup Italian parsley
½ cup baby spinach
2 to 3 stalks of red kale or Pacific kale
½ to 1 whole green apple, peeled and cored
Mix all ingredients together in a juicer or blender and enjoy.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Kristen Willeumier.
Frederick “Ted” Carrick
on The Transformative Power of Functional Neurology
by Sandra Yeyati
Dr. Frederick (Ted) Carrick is recognized as the founder of functional neurology, with nearly five decades of research and clinical practice. He established the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies, offering more than 100 courses and a master’s degree in clinical neuroscience, with a global presence in 13 countries.
With about 100 peer-reviewed, published studies to his credit, Carrick is a senior research fellow at the Centre for Mental Health
Research in association with the University of Cambridge, in the UK. He is a full professor of neurology at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and an adjunct professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, in Boston.
His work has been featured in print and television, including PBS and ABC News Nightline documentaries. Carrick holds a doctor of chiropractic degree from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, a Ph.D. in education from Walden University and a master of science in health professions education from both the Harvard Macy Institute and MGH Institute of Health Professions. He remains dedicated to patient care, offering in-person and virtual consultations worldwide.
What is functional neurology?
It is an evidence-based, multi-disciplinary approach that enhances human function through the nervous system, regardless of diseases or disorders. My rehabilitation protocols focus on movement of the head, neck, trunk, extremities and eyes to activate different areas of the nervous system and restore function. These protocols are applied only after a comprehensive neurological examination and testing.
How does this treatment work?
Intentionally moving your right arm is a consequence of the interaction of your brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, muscles and joints. When you move your arm, muscle and joint receptors provide feedback to the brain, while the brain sends motor commands in a feedforward mechanism. The brain also sends out what we call efferent copies of that motor command to other areas of the body, such as the core muscles or the back, to steady yourself so that the lever forces of the arm don’t hurt your back.
Functional neurologists work to increase muscle activity when there is weakness and to reduce muscle activation when it is excessive, as in seizures, epilepsy, dystonia and movement disorders. They also treat neurodegenerative syndromes, memory problems, concussions and neurological issues related to digestion.
What tactics do you employ to improve function?
The Carrick Institute is renowned for therapies that enhance the performance of professional athletes and Olympians, not just in injury recovery, but also in functional improvement. For elite runners, we boost race speed with tailored eye exercises developed over four decades, including fast and slow eye movements in different directions, focusing on individual nervous system needs. Using this technology, we can increase the speed of swimmers, improve the agility of skiers, increase the number of baskets a person can make and the list goes on.
Beyond athletes, our methods can help the average person walk better and safer by addressing falls, a leading cause of accidental death. We’ve developed movement strategies to enhance balance and stance using advanced tools to measure various factors. For instance, in Parkinson’s patients, we address postural misalignment by improving
Courtesy Frederick "Ted" Carrick
visual feedback. Our expertise in balance, gait and running parameters is well-established, with extensive published research.
What other treatments do you employ besides eye exercises?
Eye and head movements are central to what we do, but they are usually not done in isolation of other things. For a balance exercise, we might use a pole like a tightrope walker’s. We adjust arm swing ratios, foot placement and hip rotation. Additionally, we employ electrical stimulation and physical therapy, which are beneficial for stroke survivors.
Are positive results long-lasting?
Our goal is to make patients autonomous so they don’t have to come back to see us. We give patients lifestyle changes, exercises and regimens that they can do on their own. Those who adhere to these strategies generally do well long-term. However, many people stop exercising and start getting symptoms again, so they have to come back in.
Who should consult with a specialist in functional neurology?
Conditions that have symptoms typically bring a patient to the functional neurologist. If severe migraines disrupt your daily tasks, if you struggle with basic activities like using a knife and fork to cut your food, or if your head injury affects your vision or memory, consult a functional neurologist. However, many neurological conditions do not have recognizable symptoms but still need to be addressed. I think everyone should visit a functional neurologist annually to ensure optimal functioning. Many discover imbalances, such as uneven hand movement or poor memory.
We treat all ages. Many younger patients are suffering from accidents like motorcycle falls or sports injuries, while older patients face neurodegenerative issues. We also assist kids with learning and developmental challenges.
Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/CarrickWW or scan the QR code.
Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.
Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.
Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks. Thank you! Natural Awakenings appreciates the generosity of its distributors throughout the area.
Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks. Thank you!
Please consider supporting these major distributors by shopping there and picking up the magazine each month from one of the racks. Thank you!
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Charlotte Area Carrick-Trained Functional Neurologists
DR. MICHAEL MASTER MASTER NEUROHEALTH
1701 First Baxter Crossing, Ste 201F Fort Mill · 803-992-2473
DrMichaelMaster.health
See ad, page 6.
Dr. Michael Master is a Carricktrained clinician with over 25 years of clinical experience. He is a boardcertified chiropractic neurologist and fellowship-trained functional neurologist with child neurodevelopment credentials. Due to his unique qualifications, he attends a diverse patient population of infants, children, teens, and adults with various complex health conditions.
Clinical management is entirely holistic without the use of drugs or surgery. Master provides integrative-based care that is high-quality, compassionate, and patientcentered. Like a medical neurologist, a chiropractic neurologist or functional neurologist specifically evaluates and treats the nervous system; comprising the brain, brainstem, spinal cord, and nerves. However, chiropractic neurologists use novel methods of treatment to enhance or optimize neurological function.
The nervous system is called “the master system” because it controls every system, organ, tissue, and cell in the body. A chiropractic neurologist’s (functional neurologist) job is to carefully evaluate and diagnose how well the nervous system is working and how it supports the body’s ability to stay functionally healthy and balanced (homeostasis). When problems are found, the functional neurologist creates a personalized, non-invasive treatment plan that encourages the brain and nerves to rewire and heal, which is known as neuroplasticity. This is done using targeted stimulation such as movement, balance, vision, sound, or other sensory inputs, as well as cortical applications. Functional neurology care is especially valuable for infants and children with developing nervous systems, as well as for people dealing with neuro-immunerelated or degenerative neurological conditions.
DR. ALICIA BROWN BETTER BRAIN & BODY
11230 Carmel Commons Blvd. Charlotte · 704-752-8100
BetterBrainAndBody.com
See ad, page 14.
Dr. Alicia Brown is a Carricktrained functional neurologist serving the Charlotte area for 15 years. She combines her advanced training in clinical neuroscience with a holistic, individualized approach, delivering non-invasive, brain-based rehabilitation for various complex neurological cases. Brown’s training has positioned her as a leading voice in functional neurology and as a trusted resource for patients seeking effective care.
Carrick training refers to advanced postdoctoral education through the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies, founded by Dr. Frederick Carrick. Functional neurology’s approach is unique, as it uses non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive modalities to address neurological health. Practitioners come from various healthcare fields, including medical doctors, osteopaths, physical therapists and chiropractors. After completing at least 350 hours of course work and passing a board examination, practitioners become board-certified functional neurologists.
Brown helps patients with conditions including concussion/ traumatic brain injury, post-stroke, childhood developmental disorders, dysautonomia and neurodegenerative diseases. Her approach begins with an extensive diagnostic exam. Then she creates a customized care plan, including brain-based exercises that she learned from Carrick and over 30 state-of-the-art therapies to optimize brain-body health.
Brown earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill before completing Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Life University. She has thousands of hours of postdoctoral studies from the Carrick Institute, studying the art of patient care directly with Carrick during grand rounds.
CAROLINA FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY CENTER
16905 Northcross Dr., Ste. 150
Huntersville · 704-661-0085
CarolinaFNC.com
See ad, page 12.
Carolina Functional Neurology Center (CFNC) is a chiropractic neurology facility dedicated to helping patients with complex neurological conditions such as dysautonomia, migraine, dizziness, movement disorders, concussions, neurodevelopment disorders and autoimmune disorders. Their goal is to identify the root cause of a patient’s symptoms and create a tailored plan to get them back to living a healthy life.
All the doctors at CFNC bring substantial credentials, and each is required to complete extensive postgraduate training through the Carrick Institute, giving the team a strong foundation in functional neurology and a shared approach to patient care. This advanced training allows them to assess and address subtle neurological dysfunctions that can significantly increase a patient’s symptoms and impact their quality of life.
CFNC uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including balance testing (computerized dynamic posturography), eye movement testing (videonystagmography) and neuro-timing tests to gather detailed information about how the brain and nervous system are functioning. This data allows the team to design highly individualized treatment programs focused on measurable improvements. Treatment plans often include eye movement exercises, orthostatic retraining, vestibular and balance training, red light therapy, hyperbaric therapy and many other neuro-rehabilitation strategies, all delivered in a supportive and patient-centered environment.
ASK A MECK COUNTY EXPERT
Recycle Right This Halloween
Mecklenburg County Solid Waste experts receive hundreds of residential waste disposal and recycling questions weekly. Their experts provide updates and answer some of the most frequently asked questions. Whether making or finding a costume, getting rid of candy or deciding what to do with a pumpkin, make sure to recycle right this Halloween.
Costumes
Channel some inner creativity and make a costume using recyclable items. From cardboard and plastic bottles to bits of fabric, there are plenty of ways to create a spooktacular costume. Reuse costumes from previous years. Do not be afraid to be a zombie for a second year in a row or reuse a child’s costume for a younger sibling. If kids have outgrown costumes, either donate them at a local store or drop them off in the blue textile bins at our full-service recycling centers. This includes belts, shoes and dresses.
Candy
After enjoying all the treats, make sure to trash the wrappers. They should never go in recycling—curbside or at a community center. They are too small for machines to
recover. Unwanted candy can be dropped into a food scraps bin and the wrappers in the trash. Then bring the candy scraps to any of four full-service centers to be composted.
Pumpkins
Bring them to any full-service center to be composted or donate them to a farmer for their animals to use.
Recycling Right
There are six items that will not spook recycling bins curbside or at the centers: cans, cardboard, cartons, paper, glass bottles, plastic bottles and jugs with necks. Remember: when in doubt, throw it out.
For full- and self-service locations and questions about recycling, waste diversion or anything else related to waste, 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 Tinyurl.com/MeckRecyleRightFAQs. See ad, page 29.
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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.
Join us for a soul-nourishing day of connection, healing and highvibe vibes. Heart-led vendors offering holistic goods, intuitive readings, bodywork, nourishing food, handmade treasures and more.
Oct 5 · 11am-4pm · Free Sacred Grove Retreat Center 15720 Collie Rd, Gold Hill RiseWithMeTarot.com/holisticfair 704-299-5124
Community Bazaar
A Course in Miracles In-Person Class 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
Awaken the Formula Talk (Faith Consciousness Series)
Join us for a 90-minute immersive gathering exploring the sacred evolution of human consciousness and decide if the full three-part retreats are right for you. RSVP required.
Oct 1 · 5:30-7pm · Free Ahlara International, Mooresville Oct 26 · 1:15-2:45pm · Free HeartLight Spiritual Center, 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.
Oct 2, Nov 6 (1st Thurs of month) 11am · Free Honeycomb Cafe 31 N Main St, Belmont
Oct 16 (3rd Thurs of month) · 11am · Free Trio Restaurant 10709 McMullen Creek Pkwy, Charlotte KingsMountainPreserve.com 877-375-2495
Hosted by HeartLight Spiritual Center and Awaken Spiritual Community. Join us for a joy-filled, heart-centered event. Antiques, crafts, face painting, food trucks, and fun for all ages.
Oct 11 · 9am-4pm · Free HeartLight Spiritual Center 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte HeartLightCharlotte.org AwakeningCarolina.org
Amy Steinberg Concert Under the Stars!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of soulful music, community and inspiration as Amy Steinberg brings her powerful voice and magnetic presence to HeartLight’s brand new Oasis outdoor venue.
Oct 11 · 7:30-9pm · $20-$40
HeartLight Spiritual Center 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte HeartLightCharlotte.org/AmyUnderStars 704-669-7300
An Evening of Spiritual Channeling and Healing
David Harris and Dina Baker, two local channelers will join forces to bring their energy to the Vortex room at Scalar Health Enhancement Center.
Oct 17 · 7-8:30pm · $35
Scalar Health Enhancement Center 938 Cloverleaf Plaza, Kannapolis ScalarHealthEnhancement.com 704-490-5483
Sanctuary Imports Samhain Psychic Fair
Samhain marks the time when the veil between worlds grows thin. Join us at our Samhain Psychic Fair to explore Runes, Astrology, Human Design, Tarot, Lenormand, Energy Healing and more.
Oct 25 · 11:30am-6pm · Free; Sessions for a fee
Sanctuary Imports 822 Lamar Ave, Charlotte SanctuaryImportsCLT.com 980-237-4780
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. Nov 15 · 2-6pm · $140
HeartLight Spiritual Center
7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte FaithConsciousness.com
Classifieds
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.
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.
Brain/Mental Health
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.
Cannabis/CBD/Hemp
APOTHECA CANNABIS DISPENSARY
15 Charlotte Area Stores
Apotheca.org
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 Recovery
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
Meetings throughout Charlotte Area
Piedmontintergroup.org
Shop trusted and tested cannabis, kratom and mushroom products in a welcoming environment. Edibles, flower, drinks, powders and other natural goods, and friendly, educated staff. No medical card required. $5 off in-store with coupon. See ad, page 3.
Chiropractor
The Best in the �ueen City
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
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.
Direct Primary Care
BENTON INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 16415 Northcross Dr, Ste B, Huntersville 972 NC-16 Bus, Stanley 704-775-6029 • BentonIntegrative.com
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.
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 29.
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.
EESystem
CHARLOTTE ENERGY ENHANCEMENT 1713 Cleveland Ave 704-334-5454
CharlotteEnergyEnhancement.com
Discover the remarkable power of scalar technology to safely promote cell regeneration and naturally detoxify, shield from harmful EMFs and create ideal environment for body to heal itself of disease. Charlotte’s only 24-Unit center. See ad, page 7.
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 21.
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.
Functional Medicine
BENTON INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 16415 Northcross Dr, Ste B, Huntersville 972 NC-16 Bus, Stanley 704-775-6029 • BentonIntegrative.com
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.
Functional Neurology
BETTER BRAIN & BODY
11230 Carmel Commons Blvd
704-752-8100 · BetterBrainAndBody.com
Info@BetterBrainAndBody.com
Address the root cause of neurological issues and optimize overall brain & body health at Charlotte’s Human Optimization Center. Non-invasive diagnostics and safe and effective treatments. Wellness memberships available. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 14.
Chiropractic neurology facility that is dedicated to helping patients with complex neurological conditions such as dysautonomia, migraine, dizziness, movement disorders, concussions and neurodevelopmental disorders. Schedule your $50 consult today. See ad, page 12.
MASTER NEUROHEALTH
1701 First Baxter Crossing, Ste 201F Fort Mill, SC · 803-992-2473
DrMichaelMaster.Health
Compassionate, caring, Carricktrained chiropractic neurologist with 25+ year’s experience, including functional neurology and child neurodevelopment credentials. Holistically attending children and adults with complex health conditions without use of drugs or surgery. Schedule your consult today. See ad, page 6.
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 23.
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.
Intuitive Healer/Advisor
INTUITIVE CHANNEL & HEALER
DavidHarrisSpirituality@gmail.com 704-577-8977
DavidHarrisSpirituality.com
David offers clear, channeled guidance and healing energy— through spoken messages, Akashic Records insight, and healing light language—to facilitate deep healing, release blocks, and help you find clarity and align with your highest self.
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
Unwind with Chey Nichols, LMBT — IVY Integrative’s renowned massage therapist — offering cupping, Swedish, deep tissue, and athletic therapies. 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 12.
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 35.
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.
Psychotherapy/ Hypnotherapy
SACRED BEGINNINGS
PSYCHOTHERAPY
1816 East 7th Street
704-774-6031
SacredBeginningsPsychotherapy.com
Liz Hudson, LPA, MHt, holistic psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, specializing in transformative modalities to uproot, release and re-integrate. Blends integrative psychotherapy and hypnotherapy, breathwork, somatic healing, subconscious/ trance work and mind body approaches. Schedule your appointment today.
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.
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.
Retreat
SACRED GROVE RETREAT
15750 Collie Rd, Gold Hill, NC
704-299-5124
SacredGroveRetreat.com
Soul-nourishing sanctuary nestled in nature, offering transformational experiences, healing energy, a vortex, a labyrinth, and starlit skies— where clarity dawns and miracles take root. Available for personal stays and organized retreats. Reserve your visit today.
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 21.
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
AWAKEN SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY
7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte Info@AwakeningCarolina.org AwakeningCarolina.org
Awaken is not your average church—we teach ancient spiritual truth, including biblical wisdom, through the empowering lens of Science of Mind and New Thought. Come as you are. Leave empowered, inspired and awakened.
HEARTLIGHT SPIRITUAL CENTER
Rev David Hulse, Spiritual Guide 7300 Mallard Creek Rd
704-669-7300
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 L AKE 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.
