Solstice Green Directory Fall 2025

Free

Fall 2025

The Pumpkins are Here! page 10 Staying Calm a Breath Away page 14 The Credit Card Diet page 36

The Voice of Sustainability for the Central Coast!

sustainable. local. organics.

At SLO Veg, we’re more than just a produce delivery service. We’re a family-owned bridge between you and the local farmers who nurture the land.

Every harvest box is a testament to our commitment to sustainability, community support, and the freshest produce delivered directly to your doorstep. Thank you for the 16 years of business. We couldn’t do it without you!

Farm Fresh Produce Boxes, Holiday Gifting, and more...

Please see artisan items from our hand selected local partners on pages 18 & 19 of this issue for special savings!

Organic Olive Oils • Signature Coffee Blends Quick Pickle Kits & Spices • Artisan Chocolates Culinary Salts & Spices • Fresh Baked Artisan Goods Fresh Flowers • Gourmet Vinegars • Fresh Local Fish • Ancient Grains • Nutritious Super Foods Fresh Eggs Pasture Raised No Con Requirtract ed.

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SLOVEG.COM • SERVICE@SLOVEG.COM

805•704•8230

Enjo First Oy $10 off r Promoder with Code: solst ice25

If you cannot

find peace within yourself, you will never find it anywhere else. ~ Marvin Gaye

what is the Solstice

Green Directory?

Ask yourself this question: Is the state of the environment, both locally and globally important to you? Odds are you'll say "yes," at least according to statistics. For many there's a feeling of despair. A Chinese proverb warns, "If we do not change direction, we are likely to end up exactly where we are headed." Applied to humanity today, this would be disastrous.

It's important to get involved in something that's positive, rather than falling into the trap of thinking there's nothing you can do. The Solstice Green Directory is a step in that direction. We promise articles that target busy people interested in perspectives and solutions that reveal the wisdom, simplicity and accessibility of earth-conscious living. The unprecedented growth in world consumption and production is leading to environmental stress that are both global and local.

We want a healthy planet, and a good life for everyone on it. Simple living as a conscious choice is called voluntary simplicity. Converting to simple living is without a doubt one of the most impacting decisions we can make for the world, and for ourselves, though not always easy. May these resources and information inspire you in your quest!

Photo by Jenny Malott

Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

The Green Team: John Karp, Diane Vonglis Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski, and Monte Allen Solstice Green Directory Mission: To provide information on environmental issues and ways to address concerns of residents on the Central Coast. To help educate consumers so that they can make better choices locally by providing visibility of green and healthy products and services. To develop and provide business networking opportunities to encourage relationships that will support a more sustainable community.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Contents Fall 2025

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing and Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Distribution

Monte Allen and Anthony Calandra

Graphic Designer John Karp Jenny Malott

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski Jason Jaramillo Alexander Volonakis

Tech Support Jenny Malott Mike Stairs

Bookkeeping

Diane Vonglis Parnell

Solstice Publishing, LLC

DIRECTORY

4

FEATURES A New Wave of Wellness

9

The Pumpkins are Here!

10

The Natural Alternative

11

Foraging for Acorns

12

Staying Calm is Just a Breath Away

14

Citrus and Thyme Roasted Root Veggies

16

Pawsitive Change: A Greener Pet Owner

17

College Living Made Greener

20

Harvesting Time for Resilient Heating

22

How to Have a Greener Fall

24

From Streets to Stability in the 5 Cities

26

Ashwagandha: Natural Stress Support

29

Naturally Cozy: Sustainable Decorating

30

California and Denmark Partner on Climate 32 The Green Glossary

34

The Credit Card Diet?

36

4251 South Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 473-5064 www.slosolstice.com info@slosolstice.com facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

Solstice Green Directory is an officially Certified California Green Business.

Solstice Green Directory provides an advertising service. We cannot warrant or guarantee any of the products or services advertised. All feedback is most welcome and will help us provide a better service for you. Solstice Green Directory reserves the right to accept or reject advertisers.

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

3

Directory ANIMAL RESCUE Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year PacificWildlifeCare.org ARTS/APPAREL Coastal Vibes (805) 270-4006 Electric bike rental and sales, local art, Custom-t-shirts and more www.coastalvibes805.com Please see display ad on page 7

CAFÉ Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

CBD PRODUCTS Life Elements (805) 460-4102 Handcrafted CBD Topicals 7425 El Camino Real, Ste. O, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Opera San Luis Obispo Englebert Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel, Oct. 18 & 19, 2025 www.operaslo.org

Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay

SLO Review Your SLO County link to arts & culture SLOReview.org

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICE Go! Computer Services (805) 704-0833 (Call or Text) More Than a Tech. More Than a Tutor.

On-Site Help for Your Computer!

Repair, Refurbish, Recycle, and More!

Please see display ad on page 25

ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com Please see display ad on page 33

$109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today!

805.473.5064

Please see display ad on page 25

Please see display ad on page 21

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 10

www.slosolstice.com 4

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Please see display ad on page 15

ELECTRIC BIKES Coastal Vibes (805) 270-4006 Electric bike rental and sales, local art, Custom-t-shirts and more www.coastalvibes805.com Please see display ad on page 7

Please see display ad on page 15

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774 Serving CA's Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA Solarponics.com GREEN-REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700 226 Front Street Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 25

Please see display ad on inside front cover

HEALTH / FITNESS Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600 Tropical paradise, tennis, ozone pools, classes incl. yoga, cafe & catering, conf. rooms, special events 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach avilabayclub.com Please see display ad on page 13

ELECTROLYSIS Dorothy Ann Tuman, C.P.E. (805) 481-7385 (805) 801 -5378 This is the only proven method of removing unwanted hair on a permanent basis.

Call for an appointment/consultation.

Please see display ad on back cover

HARVEST BOX DELIVERY SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780 Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business. www.sloveg.com

DIRECTORY

DOULAS Doula Teresa (310) 592-9148 Over 15 years’ experience in birth and postpartum doula services Accepting Medi-Cal and CenCal www.doulateresa.com

Peggy Jern “To Health!”

(805) 801-1951 Teaching Pilates in Los Osos Classes, Privates, and Zoom www.tohealthpeggyjern.com Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

The Natural Alternative Nutrition Center (805) 237-8290 1-on-1 customer service, and a large selection of organic vitamins and supplements in-store and online.

1213 Pine St, Paso Robles Support@NaturalAlternativeNC.com www.naturalalternativenutrition.com Please see advertorial on page 11

r e u s e , r e i n v e n t , re s t e or

linkedin.com/in/SolsticeGreenDirectory Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

5

DIRECTORY

HOLISTIC WELLNESS Energetic Pathways (805) 956-1424 Energy Enhancement System using bioactive life-enhancing energy fields to create a harmonizing environment designed to support the body’s natural ability to heal.

200 S. 13th St., Suite 214, Grover Beach info@energeticpathways.net www.energeticpathways.net Please see advertorial on page 9

JUICE BAR California Fresh Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300 El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc californiafreshmarket.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

NON-PROFIT ECOSLO: Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo Protecting & preserving SLO County's natural beauty through education, advocacy, and action since 1971!

Contact us to get involved!

805-544-1777 @ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram www.ECOSLO.org 6

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Gay and Lesbian Alliance (805) 541-4252 1060 Palm Street, SLO Through education, support, recreation, advocacy, and partnerships, we promote the well-being of our LGBT community. www.GALACC.org Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year PacificWildlifeCare.org SLO Review Your SLO County link to arts & culture SLOReview.org Please see display ad on page 25

ORGANIC CAFE Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

PARKS & RECREATION Central Coast State Parks Association (805) 548-0390 CCSPA supports interpretation, education, and volunteer efforts in local state parks.

1124 Nipomo Street, Suite B, SLO centralcoastparks.org PILATES Peggy Jern “To Health!”

(805) 801-1951 Teaching Pilates in Los Osos Classes, Privates, and Zoom www.tohealthpeggyjern.com

@solsticegreen

Please see display ad on inside front cover

RADIO BROADCASTING AGM California, Inc (805) 781-2750 The Central Coast’s leading radio group: 98.1 KJUG, 93.3 KZOZ, COAST 104.5, The KRUSH 92.5 & 920 AM KVEC Locally owned and operated for over 30 years serving this community with pride.

Please see display ad on page 28

SOLAR ENERGY Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774 Serving CA’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA Solarponics.com Please see display ad on back cover

DIRECTORY

PRODUCE BOXES SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780 Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business. www.sloveg.com

SPA SERVICES Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600 ex.0 Use of club included on day of service!

Full service spa including massage, mani & pedi, organic facials, and more!

6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach avilabayclub.com Please see display ad on page 13

REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700 226 Front Street Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370 www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 25

SKIN & BODY CARE Dorothy Ann Tuman, C.P.E. (805) 481-7385 (805) 801 -5378 Certified electrologist with over 30 years in practice – where experience counts.

Call for a complimentary consultation.

STRESS RELIEF Energetic Pathways (805) 956-1424 Energy Enhancement System using bioactive life-enhancing energy fields to create a harmonizing environment designed to support the body’s natural ability to heal.

200 S. 13th St., Suite 214, Grover Beach info@energeticpathways.net www.energeticpathways.net Please see advertorial on page 9

r e u s e , r e i n v e n t , re s t e or

Please see display ad on page 15

Life Elements (805) 460-4102 Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin.

7425 El Camino Real, Ste. O, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

7

DIRECTORY

SUPERMARKET/ORGANIC FOODS California Fresh Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300 El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc californiafreshmarket.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 10

WOMEN’S HEALTH Doula Teresa (310) 592-9148 Over 15 years experience in birth and postpartum doula services Accepting Medi-Cal and CenCal www.doulateresa.com Please see display ad on page 15

The Natural Alternative Nutrition Center (805) 237-8290 1-on-1 customer service, and a large selection of organic vitamins and supplements in-store, and online.

1213 Pine St, Paso Robles Support@NaturalAlternativeNC.com www.naturalalternativenutrition.com Please see advertorial on page 11

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory 8

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Join the team of volunteers that provide portable showers to SLO's homeless population. All it takes is a 3-hour commitment to make a difference in others' lives.

Shower Locations: Sun: SLO Library (12:30a - 3:30p) T/Th: UUSLO by Meadow Park (10a - 1p) W: Grover Beach People's Kitchen (10:30a - 1:30p) Contact our Volunteer Coordinator at: ccgrether@gmail.com Visit website for more info: www.showerthepeopleslo.org

Join The Green Team Looking to increase sales staff!

Part-time. Generous commission.

Sales experience preferred.

Offices in San Luis Obispo.

Immediate availability.

Sales Support & training. solstice222@aol.com 805.473.5064

a new

Wave of Wellness

washes over Grover Beach!

by Margaret Hennessy

Grover Beach is home to a ground-breaking approach to well-being. Energetic Pathways, offers sessions with the Energy Enhancement System (EESystem), the cutting-edge technology, which has garnered global attention with over 500 centers worldwide, designed to support the body’s natural ability to heal, rejuvenate, and find balance. Developed by Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, the EESystem uses bio-active life-enhancing energy fields, including scalar waves, to create a harmonizing environment. Visitors simply sit in a comfortable chair within a specially equipped room, where a series of monitors emit these unique frequencies. The experience is entirely passive and non-invasive, allowing the body to absorb the energy and work toward a state of equilibrium. By helping to recharge the body at a cellular level, the system aims to promote better sleep, reduce pain, and support emotional balance. It offers a unique and gentle way to foster inner harmony and support the body’s intrinsic repair mechanisms. The center makes these revitalizing sessions more accessible to the community, offering a quiet sanctuary where individuals can escape the demands of daily life and immerse themselves in a rejuvenating energetic bath.

Energetic Pathways 200 S. 13th St., Ste. 214, Grover Beach info@energeticpathways.net (805) 956-1424

Top Row: Terryl Walters, Lisa Franklin, Brandie Michelle Bottom Row: Lauren Williams, Cecilia Harmon, Danielle Small

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

9

The Pumpkins are here!

Autumn has arrived, and with it comes pumpkin, pumpkin everywhere. No, not the ubiquitous “pumpkin spice”, which seems have burrowed itself into every possible food group, but the actual pumpkins themselves. Each year, billions of pumpkins are harvested in the United States, the majority fated to be carved into jack-o-lanterns. Most of those are field pumpkins, prized for their ability to grow to enormous sizes. The roasted seeds of this variety are not only delicious, but also a good source of protein and antioxidants.

Beyond that, this type of pumpkin isn’t the most versatile in the kitchen. Its flesh is usually a bit stringy, watery and blah in color. Smaller sugar pumpkins are a better choice since their flesh is sweeter and less stringy, and the outer skin is easier to cut. (The yeoman

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

by Katy Budge

task of delivering all those cans of delicious “pumpkin” pie filling usually falls to other members of the winter squash family, especially Hubbard and butternut.) However, even the field pumpkins are an easy go-to for using in foods such as soups and baked goods. And, as with most “colorful” foods, all pumpkins have high levels of beta carotene that helps eyesight, high levels of antioxidants that combat cancer, high levels of Vitamins A and C … you get the idea. Pumpkins are also very beneficial for dogs and cats – from promoting digestive and urinary health to helping with weight loss. But please don’t give Fido or Tabby any canned, sugary pie filling, and especially don’t give them that jack-o-lantern that’s been sitting on your porch for days on end growing bacteria!

the Natural

Alternative

by Margaret Hennessy

Paso Robles is known for its beautiful vineyards and rich history, but it's also a destination for those seeking natural health solutions. At the heart of this movement is The Natural Alternative, a comprehensive health store. More than just a place to shop, it's a community hub dedicated to promoting holistic well-being.

As we transition into fall and approach the cold and flu season, prioritizing your immune health is crucial. The Natural Alternative is the perfect resource for building your defenses.

The store offers a wide selection of high-quality vitamins and supplements like Vitamin C, Zinc, and Elderberry, along with effective herbal remedies designed to support your body's natural defenses. If you're already feeling under the weather, their knowledgeable staff can guide you toward natural solutions for a faster recovery.

This commitment to health extends beyond supplements. The store is a treasure trove of functional and clean foods, including specialized tinctures, organic protein powders, and fresh local produce. You can also find a variety of eco-friendly products for your home and unique artisan goods that support a natural lifestyle. The staff, including local health coach, Dayleen Aldridge, can provide personalized guidance to help you navigate the extensive inventory and find the perfect solutions for your needs. They can even help you create a personalized nutrition plan to help you stay energized and resilient all season long.

Located at 1213 Pine St. Paso Robles (805) 237-8290 naturalalternativenutrition.com

See Special Offer on page 19!

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

11

foraging for

Acorns!

Fall is the time to harvest nuts, and this includes acorns. This was the staple food for the Native American tribes who lived on the Central Coast. There is a little labor involved, but the results are both delicious and nutritious.

First, find an oak tree with the largest acorns. Collect them from the ground, discarding any with holes made by insects. Now the hard part: remove the nuts from the shells by cutting the shells with a sharp knife. Boil the nuts in a pot of water for about 10 minutes.

When the water cools, pour it out. It has turned dark brown from bitter tannic acid which has leached out. Lay the nuts out in the sun to dry, but only until they are slightly damp. If they are too dry, it will be difficult to grind them into powder unless you do it the way the Native Americans did – with a stone mortar and pestle. Grind them in a food processor until they are in a rough powder.

by Allen Pritzlaff

Now you can combine the acorn flour in any bread or muffin recipe with wheat flour. The wheat has gluten that will make the result stick together. Or, you can combine with corn flour to make nutty cornbread. The results will have a pleasing nutty flavor, and like any nuts will add protein.

Any unused acorn flour can be stored in your refrigerator for a few days. For any longer time it should be stored in your freezer, because it contains some moisture which is subject to mold. Unprocessed whole acorns can be stored for many months in a cool, dry location in a paper or cotton bag, but be careful that mice do not have access to it.

This is a good and delicious way to add protein to your diet and save money at the same time. It is also good practice in resilience in case there was a disaster and normal sources of food were cut off.

Acorns from Coast Live Oak 12

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

A Membership Makes A Great Gift!

Club use included w/spa service

Relax by one of our pools

Or take a fitness class!

(805) 595-7600 • www.AvilaBayClub.com 6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, CA

homemade

Tomato Soup Recipe: 2 tbs. olive oil / 1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup) / 1 tbs. tomato paste / 2 cloves garlic, minced / 1 tsp. sugar / 1 15-oz. (about 6-8 tomatoes chopped) / 1 vegetable bouillon cube (optional) / 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar / ½ tsp. dried thyme. Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Stir in tomato paste, garlic, and sugar, and cook 1 minute, or until tomato paste darkens. Stir in diced tomatoes, bouillon cube (if using), balsamic vinegar, thyme, and 5 cups water. Cover pan, bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, covered, 15 minutes. Remove from heat, and blend soup with immersion blender or in blender or food processor until smooth.

Join The Green Team Looking to increase sales staff!

Part-time. Generous commission.

Sales experience preferred.

Offices in San Luis Obispo.

Immediate availability.

Sales Support & training. solstice222@aol.com 805.473.5064

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

13

Health News

Staying Calm is just a Breath Away!

by Madeline Palaszewski

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that alerts us to stressful situations or potential danger.

But when anxiety takes over your life and becomes a pervasive problem, there are simple things you can do to alleviate it. One of the easiest ways is to use your breath as a calming tool. How you breathe can affect your heart rate, blood pressure, and nervous system. Shallow breathing which is drawing just a bit of air into your lungs can cause stress and anxiety.

Deep breathing draws air deep into your lungs through your nose, and uses your chest to bring air into your diaphragm. This allows you to get more oxygen into your brain and reduce your blood

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

pressure and heart rate. This results in your body relaxing and feeling safe. One of the most common deep breathing exercises is called Box Breathing: Start by inhaling for a count of 4 seconds • Hold your breath for a count of four • Then exhale for a count of four Optional: Close your eyes and envision building and breaking down a one-dimensional square box as you go.

There are many other types of deep breathing techniques including Tactical and Mantra Breathing. Mental Health professionals agree that deep breathing is one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to stay calm and they suggest practicing them daily, Deep breathing can also help you fall and stay asleep.

for Women

Chocolate you love it!

by Zoe Allen

What is it that makes chocolate so irresistible? A large part of chocolate's allure, of course, lies in the taste. It is a deliciously rich concoction that satisfies the most intense craving.

But several chemical reactions are also at work. For one thing, chocolate stimulates the secretion of endorphins, producing a pleasurable sensation similar to the "runner's high" a jogger feels after running several miles. The question arises: Why is chocolate such a powerful food? It also contains a chemical which our bodies convert into phenylethylamine (PEA). This is the same chemical that is produced when we fall in love. About 40% of women and 15% of men report that they have chocolate cravings.

Dorothy Ann Tuman, C.P.E. Certified Professional Electrologist

Teresa Gibson has over 15 years experience in doula care.

Over 30 years in Private Practice

Coming soon: United Healthcare and Blue Shield of Ca. will offer doula services.

Where Experience Counts (805) 481-7385 • (805) 801-5378 129 N. Halcyon Rd., Arroyo Grande dorothytuman@att.net

CenCal provides free services

For a free consultation and more info:

(310) 592-9148 www.doulateresa.com

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

15

This page sponsored by

SLO Veg

citrus and thyme roasted

Root Vegetables

by Jennifer Bennett /SLO Veg recipe creator instagram @bennettpartyoffour

Ingredients: 3 golden beets, cleaned, peeled and cut into ¼ inch rounds or half rounds / 3 red beets, cleaned, peeled and cut into ¼ inch rounds or half rounds / 1 bunch of carrots, cleaned and cut into angled rounds / 1 large parsnip, cleaned, peeled and cut into ¼ inch rounds / 1 cup pearl onions (if fresh, blanch them first to easily remove the outer layer, you can also use frozen pearl onions) / 1 Cara Cara orange and 1 navel orange, juiced / 2-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar / ¼ cup olive oil / 1 tbsp dried thyme / salt and pepper to taste

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Directions: Preheat oven to 425º. Prep a large baking pan by either lightly oiling the pan or using a sheet of parchment paper. To make the marinade, in a bowl or liquid measuring cup, mix the olive oil, balsamic, thyme, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, whisk together. Place the veggies on the baking sheet, spread out in an even layer. Pour the marinade over the vegetables and toss or mix them so that the marinade is distributed evenly.

Bake for 25-30 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh or dried thyme and enjoy!

Pawsitive Change

how to be a greener pet owner!

by Margaret De Stefano

Caring for our furry friends is a joy, and with a few simple shifts, we can make their well-being align with the health of our planet. Embracing eco-friendly pet care doesn't mean sacrificing quality; it’s about making conscious choices that reduce your pet's environmental paw print.

One of the easiest places to start is with what they eat. Look for pet foods made with sustainably sourced ingredients or brands that offer insectbased protein, which has a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional meat. You can also explore local pet food co-ops or companies that use compostable packaging to further reduce waste. When it comes to playtime, consider toys made from recycled materials, natural rubber, or

organic cotton. Instead of buying new, get creative and make your own! A braided old t-shirt makes a great tug toy, and an empty paper towel roll can be a source of endless fun for a cat.

Cleaning up after our pets is a daily routine, and eco-friendly options are readily available. Opt for compostable or biodegradable waste bags instead of conventional plastic ones. For cat owners, switching to a litter made from recycled paper, wood pellets, or corn can be a game-changer. These materials are not only sustainable but often clump just as well and are biodegradable. By making these small, mindful changes, you’re not only providing the best for your pet but also contributing to a healthier, greener world for all creatures, big and small.

How's that for real pawsitivity?

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

17

Connecting Local Farmers & Artisans to You! At SLO Veg, we believe that fresh, local food has the power to bring people together—around the table, around the farm, and around our community. For over a decade, we’ve partnered with passionate farmers, ranchers, and food artisans right here on the Central Coast to bring you the best of every season, harvested at its peak and delivered straight to your door—or available at one of our convenient pickup locations throughout SLO County.

Our mission is simple: make it easy (and delicious!) for families, foodies, and busy households to eat fresh, eat well, and support local. Each week, our harvest boxes overflow with colorful fruits, crisp veggies, and sometimes a surprise or two that just might inspire your next recipe adventure.

SLO Veg Subscribers

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off Large Mason Jar Bouquet

Valid 10/2 - 12/15

Follow for locations at: @flowergirltruck

Get 10% off your online order at

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8oz Coffee with Good Coffee Premier certified organic When you coffee on the Central Coast pick up your 3168 El Camino Real Atascadero SLO Veg Box joebellacoffee.com (805) 461‑4822 18

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

that fits into

YOUR life

805-441-5669 Shell Beach

perkypowders.com

To make things even easier, we share recipes to pair with your items and help you turn every box into a table full of fresh meals. We love our subscribers and are so grateful for their support—it truly feels like family. That’s why we work hard to offer the most customizable service on the Central Coast, tailoring boxes so you can savor the seasons with all the items you love most.

In addition to produce, our marketplace offers artisan items—from handmade pastas and breads to local honey and specialty treats—perfect for rounding out your weekly harvest. And beyond serving households, we’re proud to supply local restaurants and businesses with wholesale pricing and specialty items, helping chefs and shop owners showcase the incredible bounty of our region. When you join SLO Veg, you’re not just signing up for a box of produce—you’re becoming part of a community that values sustainability, quality, and the hard work of our local growers. And because we’d love for you to experience the difference fresh makes, new customers receive $10 off their first order with promo code: SLOVEGHEALTHY. Let’s savor the seasons together—one harvest at a time

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when you pick up your SLO Veg CSA box SLO’s best and most comprehensive wine list

4468 Broad St. SLO • winesneak.com

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% Paso Robles OFF 3075 Limestone Way with this ad on any SLO Public Market. item in our 3845 S. Higuera St. #112 stores centralcoastcreamery.com Top quality health and skin care products.

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19

College Living... made greener!

by Zoe Allen

With so much to think about when heading back to college, who has time to think about going green in their dorm room? Here are some simple tips on creating an eco-friendly dorm room: Instead of: Cases of plastic water bottles, get tabletop filter and a pretty stainless steel water bottle. Instead of: Regular coffee, buy organic, fair trade coffee. Instead of: Traditional notebooks farmed from forests, go with notebooks made from recycled materials. Instead of: Air freshener plugins, go with fresheners that use essential oils. Instead of: Traditional chemicalladen sheets, pillows and blankets, try organic cotton for bedroom linens.

Instead of: Paper plates, napkins and utensils, be sure to get reusable plates, napkins and silverware. Instead of: Plastic plant decorations, buy live plants that clean the air. Instead of: Buying room decorations and new furniture, go with recycled/ used decorations and furniture. Check local resale stores for what's in stock.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

beyond Windows 10...

by Mike Stairs

Microsoft ends its official support for Windows 10 on October 14th.

Worldwide, hundreds of thousands of computers that cannot upgrade to Windows 11 will no longer receive technical assistance or updates to features and security.

These computers will still operate, but with every passing day will become more vulnerable. Threats will continue to develop without the protection that comes from regular security updates.

Program. This will provide an additional year of updates, effectively kicking the can a year down the road for those willing and able to sign-in to a Microsoft account. This offer will show up in the Control Panel accompanied by ample notifications if Windows 10 updates are occurring properly.

Systems not updated properly may not display warnings. To redeem, create a Microsoft account and use it to sign in to Windows 10.

To ease the transition, Microsoft is offering the free Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Go! Computer Services: 805.704.0833 gocomputerservices@gmail.com

More info:

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

21

harvesting time for

Resilient Heating...

by Allen Pritzlaff

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Fall is the season when we prepare for winter. Although we do not experience snow and sub-zero temperatures here, we do need to heat our homes, especially in inland areas where it dips below freezing at night...

Most older homes have fireplaces, which are open to the room. These were originally designed more for cooking than for heating, and were intended to conduct their heat up the chimney and out of the house.

Therefore, an open fireplace may bring great ambiance to the room, but it will not heat the house. Most of the heat goes up the chimney, and is replaced by cold air coming in through cracks around your doors and windows.

Therefore, if you would like to supplement your furnace with heat from a fireplace, you need a fireplace insert. These have a glass door to see what is going on inside, and a way to control the air flow to the firebox. We added an insert, and the year after we did so, our gas bill decreased by 20% even though the price of gas went up by 20%. Free standing metal fireplaces work the same way. You start the fire with the air control all the way open.

When all the main logs are burning, close the control about two-thirds of the way. This allows the logs to burn slowly, sending a minimum amount of heat up the chimney and a maximum amount into your room. It also reduces the amount of smoke.

Most free standing fireplaces and fireplace inserts also have electric fans which circulate air from your room around the back and top of the firebox, further increasing the heat output. For free-standing fireplaces you can obtain a small fan which works by using the heat of the fireplace to generate electricity. This will work even in a blackout.

To obtain fuel for your fireplace, look for dead branches. This helps to remove fuel for potential wildfires. Also look for scrap wood from construction projects, which might otherwise go to a landfill.

Just avoid painted wood, or wood treated to prevent rot, which would put harmful chemicals into the air. We fueled our fireplace exclusively in this way for many years and saved a lot of money. We were also prepared in case the electricity went out in the winter.

Remember that a gas central heating system still needs electricity for fans to circulate the air through ducts. Only old-fashioned wall or floor heaters will work when the electricity is out. Stay warm and resilient this winter!

To learn more about resiliency on the Central Coast, read Alan's book Resilience. See page 13.

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23

how to have a

Greener Fall

by Hepsharat Amadi, MD

As autumn arrives, the energy of the earth goes inward again. Leaves falling enrich the soil with their minerals to make it more fertile for the plants that will sprout in spring. As we take care of the earth by refraining from using herbicides and pesticides this will in turn cause our bodies to become less toxic as well. For example, recent studies have shown a link between Parkinsonism and herbicides which alter our microbiome. Choosing not to use pesticides also helps the organisms that enrich our soil, such as earthworms, and helps bird populations by providing a larger supply of insects for them to feed on. It also helps butterflies, since their caterpillars will not be feeding on toxic leaves.

Fall is a great time to do composting and enjoy seasonal vegetables like squash, and fruits, like nice crispy apples.

Autumn is also a time for new beginnings, like the start of the school year. It is also the beginning of a social season as people return from their summer vacations and get together.

Many people enjoy the cooler weather of fall and the chance to put on a sweater or some boots. As the daylight hours grow shorter many enjoy the opportunity to do more reading indoors.

It is important to stay active during the fall season to be able to circulate our blood, relieve tension and stress, and appreciate the beautiful scenery around us as autumn creates the magnificent display of colorful foliage.

www.dramadi.com

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Sweet Potato

Fries...

Despite their sweet taste, sweet potatoes have only a few more calories than white potatoes. A three and a half ounce serving of baked sweet potato contains three times the recommended daily amount of beta carotene (half the RDA for vitamin C and just 100 calories).

Baked Sweet Potato Fries: 1 sweet potato, washed and cut into strips / 2 tbsp olive oil / 2 tbsp dried herbs (parsley, rosemary, or thyme) / 1 tsp sea salt / ½ tsp black pepper.

Preheat oven at 400°F. On a large baking sheet, toss with olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer and make sure to flip the fries over two or three times to brown evenly. Bake for about 3540 min., or until golden brown, and crisp Mon-Sat 9-7 Sun 9-6 Daily 10-4

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25

from Streets to Stability

the 5 cities homeless coalition's mission

by Margaret Hennessy

The 5 Cities Homeless Coalition (5CHC) is a leading nonprofit in San Luis Obispo County, California, dedicated to tackling homelessness. While local officials like District 4 Supervisor Jimmy Paulding actively support and implement initiatives to address homelessness, they are not directly involved in the day-to-day operations or leadership of the 5Cities Homeless Coalition itself.

Paulding, who has voted in favor of transitional housing projects like the "Welcome Home Village" and advocates for expanding supportive services, works in partnership with organizations like 5CHC to meet the community's needs.

The 5CHC provides comprehensive "wrap-around" services focused on a "Housing First" model. This approach prioritizes securing permanent housing 26

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for individuals and families, then offering the support needed to maintain it. Their programs include: Housing Assistance: Offers financial aid for rent and deposits to prevent evictions or help people move into new homes. Outreach: Teams connect with unsheltered individuals to provide resources, food, and transport, aiming to get them into stable housing.

Immediate Needs: A program that provides one-time financial assistance for things like utilities, car repairs, and transportation to remove barriers to self-sufficiency. Warming Centers: Operates temporary shelters on cold or rainy nights to provide a safe, warm space with meals.

The coalition's efforts have a tangible impact, with over 90% of clients they've helped with housing or eviction prevention remaining housed for more than a year.

ECO SLO events...

October 25th (9-12pm) Creeks to Coast Cleanup: Part 2!

Join ECOSLO for a second round of coastal and creekside cleanups at two locations: Oso Flaco Lake and Morro Strand South.

November 15th (9-12pm) Neighborhood Tree Planting Neighborhood Tree Planting event as part of ECOSLO’s Urban Tree Program.

This is a wonderful opportunity to give back to the environment.

December 4th (5:30pm-7:30pm) Holiday Party at Timbre Winery Celebrate the season with fellow environmental enthusiasts at Timbre Winery Production + Tasting Room.

December 6th (9-12pm) Nipomo High School Tree Planting We’re planting 38 trees and shrubs to create a natural dust screen between Nipomo High School and the neighboring agricultural fields - helping improve air quality and add beauty to campus.

December 7th (6-8pm) Arroyo Grande Holiday Parade Cleanup It's a great chance to give back and get into the holiday spirit of kindness.

Please wear closed-toed shoes, dress in warm layers, and don't forget your Santa hat! We'll bring the cleanup gear.

December 13th (9-12pm) Johnson Ranch Tree Planting Be part of the first in a three-part tree planting series at Johnson Ranch Open Space as we work to restore the local creek ecosystem. We'll meet in the parking lot and get to plant dozens of native one-gallon varieties.

Support ECOSLO by making a donation or volunteering!

For over 50 years, ECOSLO has served your community in protecting and preserving the natural beauty and resources of SLO County.

Our current work includes:

• Urban tree planting • Data-driven beach cleanups • Seas to Trees Day • Green Business Certification Program • Advocacy efforts to reduce waste

Contact us today: www.ECOSLO.org @ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram

info@ecoslo.org • 805.710.8021 Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

Ashwagandha...

a Natural Ally for holiday Stress and Immune support

by Crystal Powell

The holiday season, while joyful, often brings increased stress and fatigue. From hectic schedules to financial pressure and social commitments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. During this time, maintaining a strong immune system is equally important, as cold and flu season coincides with holiday festivities. Enter ashwagandha, an ancient adaptogenic herb known for its calming and restorative properties.

Ashwagandha – Withania somnifera has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to help the body adapt to stress and support overall well-being.

Scientific studies have shown that it may reduce cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone and promote a sense of calm without drowsiness. This makes it an excellent natural remedy for managing holiday stress.

Beyond mood support, ashwagandha also plays a role in enhancing immune

function. It contains antioxidants and compounds that may improve immune cell activity and reduce inflammation, helping the body defend against seasonal illnesses.

Whether taken as a supplement, tea, or powder blended into a smoothie, ashwagandha offers a gentle yet powerful way to stay balanced and resilient during the holidays. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.

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29

Naturally Cozy... sustainable ways to decorate for fall

by Lori Waters As autumn arrives and the days grow shorter, many of us look forward to cozying up in our homes with warm, seasonal décor. But creating that autumn atmosphere doesn’t have to mean buying plastic pumpkins, synthetic wreaths, or mass-produced decorations that often end up cluttering closets or landfills. Fall itself offers a treasure trove of natural beauty that can be brought indoors in simple, sustainable ways.

Consider gathering colorful leaves, pinecones, branches, or acorns from your yard or local park to create centerpieces, garlands, or table accents. Farmers’ markets are also brimming with gourds, heirloom pumpkins, and squash that double as festive décor and nourishing food. Once the season ends, these natural items can be composted, placed in your green waste bin, or enjoyed in meals instead of tossed in the garbage.

Thrift shops and local makers often have cozy blankets, table runners, or pillow covers in earthy autumn tones.

Reusing and repurposing items instead of buying new not only saves money but also reduces waste.

By leaning into what’s natural, seasonal, and secondhand, your fall décor can feel authentic and inviting while honoring the environment. This approach makes your home more than just festive, it becomes a reflection of mindful, sustainable living.

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fall in south SLO county

Harvest, Hikes, and Happenings...

Here’s your go-to guide for fall festivities in South SLO County, where pumpkin patches meet live music under golden skies. Avila Valley Barn – Harvest Hub & Family Fun: Kick off the season at Avila Valley Barn, a beloved farmstand offering U-pick apples, pumpkins, hayrides, a petting zoo, and a charming market for fresh produce and baked goods. Apple Picking Around Avila & See Canyon: See Canyon’s Gopher Glen features over a hundred apple varieties with farm tours and cider tasting. Nearby, SLO Creek Farms offers organic apples (Fuji, Granny Smith, Gold) along with vegetables, herbs, and pumpkins from October through November. Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals: Find your perfect pumpkin at Brookshire Farms on Los Osos Valley Road, complete with hayrides, corn mazes, inflatables, and seasonal play areas—open through October. Arroyo Grande Harvest Festival: Every September, Arroyo Grande’s historic Village comes alive with its Harvest Festival—a beloved tradition that celebrates community spirit with a parade, live music, vendor booths, and plenty of food. Pismo Beach Clam Festival: October wouldn’t be complete without the Pismo Beach Clam Festival, a tradition since 1946. This two-day celebration features a lively parade through downtown, live music on the pier plaza, a clam chowder cook-off, surf contests, vendor booths, and plenty of kids’ activities.

Monarch Butterfly Grove: From late October through February, thousands of Monarch butterflies cluster in the eucalyptus trees at Pismo State Beach’s Monarch Butterfly Grove. Visitors can walk through the grove, talk with docents, and witness one of California’s most dazzling natural displays. Coastal Concerts & Wellness in Avila: Point San Luis Lighthouse hosts enchanting Live at the Lighthouse concerts on fall Saturdays, with wine, food, and storytelling. For those seeking relaxation, Sycamore Mineral Springs offers Full Moon Yoga + Sound Baths under starlit skies. Nature & Scenic Fall Escapes: South of Pismo, the Guadalupe– Nipomo Dunes Complex invites exploration with its vast sandy landscapes, boardwalk trails at Oso Flaco Lake, and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

To learn more about events, dining, and lodging, visit www.SouthCountyChambers.com

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31

california and denmark Partner on Climate!

by Madeline Palaszewski

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a memorandum between California and Denmark supporting cooperation on green economy resilience, technology, and innovation. As allies in a commitment to innovation, cybersecurity and clean energy transition, the partnership will further climate goals while expanding greater international collaboration.

According to the Governor’s media office: California has the fourth largest economy in the world, and is uniquely positioned to lead the international

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conversation and help guide the world in the responsible implementation of emerging technology.

The partnership with Denmark will further the Golden State’s commitment to building affordable clean energy, bolster low carbon, green growth economies, foster innovation, and accelerate safe and secure technologies.

The Governor and delegation met with Denmark’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Ambassador of Denmark this summer in San Francisco where the agreement was signed.

how do you prepare

Artichokes?

by Zoe Allen

Artichokes, which are actually the immature flower of the thistle plant, are an excellent source of fiber, magnesium, folic acid, and a burst of vitamin C. How do you prepare artichokes? Try this: 1. Rinse artichokes thoroughly before cooking. 2. Pull off the tough outer, lower petals. With a sharp knife, slice off the stems so that they're level with the bottoms of the artichokes.

3. Stand the artichokes in a large saucepan. Cover them halfway with

water & simmer, covered, for 30 to 40 minutes. Or, place them on a steaming rack & steam for the same amount of time. 4. To test for doneness, pull on a center petal. If it comes out easily, it is. 5. To eat the leaves, hold them by the tip, curved side down, & draw them between your teeth to remove the tender flesh. 6. When leaves are eaten, scoop out the fuzzy layer called the choke, with a fork or spoon and discard. Now you are ready for the best part, the tender heart.

Learn Astrology...

Next meeting To Be Announced Call for more information (805) 473-5064 or email sloastrologers@aol.com

Newcomers Welcome!

33

Glossary

descriptions of integrative health/wellness and green/healthy living practices...

Acupuncture is a form of health maintenance, which stimulates the body’s ability to correct and balance itself. Based on the ancient Chinese practice of using "punctures" to cure the body of disease and relieve pain. This process is used to channel the chi life force throughout the body by a network of meridians in a continuous flow.

Disease is considered to be an imbalanced meridian system, and "needles" are inserted at various points along the meridians to stimulate or disperse the life-force flow to correct the imbalance.

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses liquid plant materials, known as essential oils (EOs), and other aromatic compounds from plants for the purpose of affecting a person’s mood or health. Essential oils differ in chemical composition from other herbal products because the distillation process only recovers the lighter phytomolecules. Aromatherapy is a generic term that refers to any of the various traditions that make use of essential oils sometimes in combination with other alternative medical practices and beliefs.

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic science from India. Said to be more than 5,000 years old, "Ayur" means life and "Ved" means knowledge. Ayurveda is the study of longevity that offers healing, rejuvenation, and selfactualizing therapies utilizing diet, exercise, yoga, herbs, massage, aromas, meditation, mantras and tantras. Ayurveda tradition 34

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2025

teaches that health is the balance of elements fire, air, water and earth – and illness is an excess of an element.

Biofeedback involves noninvasive, simple electronic monitoring to observe the body’s functions and provide information useful to the healing processes, especially with stress. Using biofeedback information, guided relaxation techniques allow awareness and methods to control particular body reactions.

Treatments may address anxiety, pain, migraines, insomnia, muscle spasms, asthma and other stress-related disorders.

CBD Oil is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain and inflammation. CBD oil has shown promise as a more natural way to alleviate depression and anxiety. It may help reduce symptoms related to side effects related to cancer treatment and recent research has linked CBD with several benefits for the heart and circulatory system.

Chiropractic Care consists of Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) who are spinal specialists and have completed a four-year course of graduate-level study; a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom and laboratory, and clinical training at an accredited chiropractic college, and passed national and state exams.

Chiropractic care specializes in chiropractic adjusting and manipulation, diagnosis, radiology, physical medicine, nutrition and natural therapies with an emphasis on prevention, and drug-free care.

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a system of evaluation and treatment which views the client as an integrated totality and uses gentle, noninvasive techniques to the craniosacral system surrounding the brain and the spinal cord.

Doulas can trace its origin back to ancient Greece, where women supported each other during childbirth. A doula is a person who assists a mother through labor and delivery by providing physical and emotional support and information. A doula acts as an advocate for mothers and empowers them to take control of the birthing process. Doulas will nurture, support and offer expert guidance for families during pregnancy, birth and the early postpartum time.

Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) Energy Enhancement System uses bio-active life-enhancing energy fields, including scalar waves, to create a harmonizing environment and designed to support the body’s natural ability to heal, rejuvenate, and find balance.

Herbalists practice ancient healing procedures by using plants, and their derivatives, as preventative and curative medicine. Whole herbs retain their subtle ingredients needed to balance the body to catalyst the healing process, without harmful side effects of synthetic drugs. Herbs are used for internal and external treatments using teas, ointments, oils, compresses, tinctures, and extracts.

Homeopathy is a holistic therapy developed in Germany over 200 years ago by physician, Samuel Hahnemann. Homeopathy is based upon the belief that “like cures like,” and uses small doses of natural remedies created from herbal, mineral and animal substances.

Meditation is the deep relaxation of the body to heal the body, quiet the mind, and provide the client with a sense of inner balance.

Meditation can be a state of focused or mindful attention, which can include the use of sitting posture, imagery, mantras, control of breath, and observation – all to allow thoughts to emerge and pass without becoming engaged with them.

Osteopathy is a form of drug-free noninvasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework, which includes the joints, muscles and spine. Its aim is to positively affect the body's nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems.

Reiki means universal life-force energy, and is a scientific way to activate and balance the life-force energy (chi, prana, qi) present in all living things. One method used is light handplacement therapy that is used to channel energy to organs and glands.

Reflexology or zone therapy, is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.

Sound Vibration Therapy is based on the fact that the universe is in a constant state of vibration; therefore, the body’s cells are constantly vibrating. Sound vibration therapy employs the direct application of the voice, music, and other sounds.

the Credit Card diet?

by Jenny Malott

Imagine eating a credit card every week—5 grams of microplastics, says a 2019 University of Newcastle study. That’s the sneaky addiction we’re all hooked on, with plastic creeping into our food, water, and air. In the U.S., we’re especially deep in it, tossing out 286 pounds of plastic waste per person yearly, way above the global average of 117 pounds. How did we get so obsessed, and what can we do about it?

This plastic fix shows up in every bite and sip.

Seafood? Loaded with ocean microplastics. Tap or bottled water? Thousands of tiny particles yearly.

Packaged foods in plastic containers leach bits when heated, and even salt and honey aren’t safe.

Breathing air near synthetic clothes or crumbling plastics adds to it. These microplastics might mess with hormones, carry toxins, or cause inflammation—health risks we’re still figuring out. Meanwhile, only 5-6% of plastic waste gets recycled globally, leaving the rest to pile up in landfills, oceans, or incinerators.

You can start breaking this habit. Try glass or stainless steel bottles to cut down on plastic bits in your drinks. Use water filters like reverse osmosis to catch microplastics. Go for fresh, unpackaged foods, and don’t heat meals in plastic. Swap synthetic threads for cotton or wool to breathe cleaner air. These small swaps trim that credit card-sized load. Bigger change—like better recycling or less singleuse plastic—needs all of us to nudge companies and policy makers.

Curious about kicking this habit? Start small, and let’s see where it takes us.

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