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• Ayurvedic Medicine
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• Dietary Influences on Disease
Dear
Readers,
Welcome to this month’s issue, where we invite you to explore the many pathways to wellness and authentic living. Each article in these pages offers practical insights and expert guidance designed to support your journey toward greater health, balance, and fulfillment. From growing nutrient-dense foods in your own home to transforming your living space into a sanctuary of wellbeing, this issue presents opportunities to make meaningful changes that align with your personal values and wellness goals.
Our Feature Story on page 16 examines the profound shift from conventional success metrics toward personal fulfillment rooted in authenticity and purpose. Through insights from thought leaders, readers will discover how intentional choices, reflective practices, and intuitive guidance can foster deeper connections to both self and community. The article explores navigating life transitions, incorporating restorative rituals, and applying ancient wisdom to modern challenges, offering a roadmap for those seeking more meaningful and balanced lives.
In our Conscious Eating department, we explore the impressive nutritional benefits of microgreens and sprouts. These small but mighty plants offer powerful health advantages. The article provides expert advice on growing varieties like radish, kale, broccoli, and sunflower, along with guidance on sourcing them fresh from local markets. Readers will learn the safest growing methods, and how even small servings can add vibrant flavor, texture, and nutrition to daily meals. See page 11.
Our Green Living department presents thoughtful design strategies that transform living spaces into supportive environments for wellbeing. The article highlights practical approaches rooted in biophilic design and feng shui, including curved furnishings, seasonally inspired textures, and soundscapes tuned to calming frequencies. Readers will discover how color psychology and intentional layouts can enhance energy flow, promote balance, and create harmonious homes that support both physical and emotional wellness. See page 22.
In Wise Words on page 14, we spotlight Dr. Lorraine Maita, founder of The Feel Good Again Institute. She provides accessible health education focused on hormone balance, detoxification, gut health, and healthy aging.
Each article in this issue reflects our commitment to providing you with evidence-based information and practical tools for creating positive change in your life. We believe that wellness is not a destination but a journey of continuous growth and self-discovery. May these pages inspire you to embrace choices that honor your authentic self and support your highest potential for health and happiness.
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. - C.S. Lewis
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Loving My Greens: Supercharge Your Health with Nutrient-Dense Microgreens
Loving My Greens believes that the smallest foods can make the biggest impact—and microgreens are a perfect example. These young, vibrant greens are harvested just days after germination, yet they’re packed with intense flavor, vivid color, and up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts.
From boosting immunity and supporting heart health to enhancing digestion and mental clarity, microgreens are nature’s concentrated superfoods. Whether you sprinkle them on your morning avocado toast, blend them into a smoothie, or use them to elevate a salad, microgreens offer a simple, delicious way to nourish your body and soul.
The mission at Loving My Greens is to make plant-based wellness accessible, inspiring, and fun. That’s why they’re passionate about sharing microgreen recipes and research-backed benefits to help you thrive—one handful of greens at a time.
Delivering fresh, organically grown, nutrient-dense microgreens is Loving My Greens’ daily priority. Ready to green up your plate? Explore their favorite varieties and fall in love with the fresh, flavorful world of microgreens.
Contact Information: For more information, call Cedric Tippenhauer, Health Educator & Master Grower, Loving My Greens in Fort Lauderdale, FL at 954-282-9898. Place your order today by visiting LovingMyGreens.com and receive 20% off with discount code “WELCOME20”. See the ads page 13 and 30.
Acupuncture Wellness Therapy in Pembroke Pines has integrated ozone therapy into its holistic treatment offerings, combining traditional Eastern medicine with modern medical technology.
Dr. Gisele Leon-Ritch, a licensed Acupuncture Physician and Doctor of Oriental Medicine, now offers medical grade ozone therapy. Leon-Ritch's “ACU-OZONE” approach fuses Traditional Chinese Medicine with ozone generation technology.
Medical grade ozone (O3), an activated form of oxygen, destroys pathogens and cancer cells while increasing oxygenation and
Experience the Vibration of Earth Through Quiet Connection
Dominique Lavoisier, shares a simple practice to help individuals feel more grounded and peaceful in everyday life. By sitting quietly and focusing on the concept of Earth’s vibration, people can deepen their sense of inner calm and connection to the world around them.
The practice is accessible anywhere and at any time. Individuals are encouraged to imagine the sound of the vibration of Earth, and then ask to connect with it. Many describe the experience as bringing lightness, peace and a deep sense of alignment. This gentle tip offers a path to serenity and clarity through conscious awareness of Earth’s nurturing presence.
Lavoisier emphasizes empowerment as central to his work with clients. “Everyone has the ability to feel good about their life, attract success and experience peace in relationships,” he says. Through intuitive support and spiritual insight, Lavoisier helps individuals reconnect with their purpose and potential.
Mediumship with Angels provides remote mediumship and oracle readings to support emotional well-being and personal transformation. The practice encourages people to trust their inner guidance and embrace a life of balance and fulfillment.
For more information or to book a session, visit MediumshipWithAngels.com. See ad page 5.
immune function. The therapy treats acute and chronic pain, arthritis, auto-immune disorders, peripheral vascular disease, wound healing, and serves as adjunct cancer treatment.
At the facility, ozone is administered through acupuncture point injection or insufflation with very low likelihood of adverse effects. Leon-Ritch often combines the therapy with homeopathy and photo-biomodulation light therapy.
Leon-Ritch emphasizes her commitment to providing safe and effective therapies designed to heal and balance the body through natural methods.
For more information about ozone therapy treatments, contact Acupuncture Wellness Therapy at 111 Grand Palms Drive, Pembroke Pines, FL 33027. Call 786-462-HEAL or visit AcupunctureWellnessTherapy. com. See ad page 30 for more details.
Healthy-Aging Properties of Caffeinated Coffee
In June, a large-scale study by Tufts University sought to determine the health benefits of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee with and without the addition of sugar and saturated fat. The results published in The Journal of Nutrition suggest that drinking a low-to-moderate amount of caffeinated coffee daily lowers the risk of all-cause mortality; however, the benefit drops when an overabundance of sugar and saturated fat are added.
The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 1999 and 2018 involving more than 46,000 American adults. Individuals that consumed one to three cups every day were about 15 percent less likely to die in the next nine to 11 years compared to those that did not drink coffee at all. This benefit was negated for those that added more than half a teaspoon of sugar, one tablespoon of halfand-half, or three-and-a-half tablespoons of whole milk. Drinking decaffeinated coffee was not associated with healthy aging.
Sucralose May Increase Appetite
According to research published in Nature Metabolism, the calorie-free sweetener known as sucralose may increase appetite. Sucralose is widely distributed in various food products, including baked goods, beverages, chewing gum and frozen dairy desserts. In a randomized crossover trial involving 75 young adults, participants consumed a beverage containing sucralose, sucrose or water.
The study revealed that the sucralose-containing drink could stimulate appetite by delivering a sweet taste without triggering the body’s natural mechanism for suppressing hunger. While this study is unlikely to significantly alter the availability of sucralose, it aligns with the 2023 World Health Organization’s recommendation that non-sugar sweeteners should not be used for weight management purposes.
Predicting Dementia
Determining how fast a brain ages may help predict and prevent dementia, a condition that is projected to impact approximately 42 percent of Americans aged 55 and older, according to the National Institutes of Health. While genetic analysis at the cellular level offers insights into biological age, its application to brain cells is hindered by the blood-brain barrier, which prevents cell collection.
Researchers from the University of Southern California have devised a non-invasive method that integrates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with artificial intelligence (AI) to assess brain aging. Their findings were published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
The AI database was constructed through an exhaustive analysis of thousands of brain scans from individuals with different brain conditions and varying ages. Subsequently, patient brain scans taken at distinct time intervals are compared to the database to identify brain zones that are exhibiting accelerated aging. The method was tested on more than 100 adults with healthy brains and 140 Alzheimer’s patients. The researchers are optimistic that their approach will not only identify early signs of cognitive decline but also facilitate the prediction of disease progression.
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Global Briefs
Reusing Forever Chemicals
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as forever chemicals, have been linked to a number of health concerns. In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency labeled a specific PFAS known as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and its salts and isomers as hazardous chemicals.
Scientists from the UK’s University of Oxford and Colorado State University have developed a novel method for both destroying PFAS and reusing some of their elements in new products. Their method, published in the journal Nature, involves reacting PFAS with potassium phosphate salts and then grinding the PFAS and salts together using ball bearings to break the carbon-fluorine bonds. This process facilitates the reuse of the fluorine content in the manufacture of medicines and other products.
New Defense Against Superbugs
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that antimicrobial-resistant infections affect more than 2.8 million Americans annually, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. These “superbugs” have developed the ability to resist medicines used to eradicate them, including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics.
In 2019, a systematic review proposed fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a potential strategy for the decolonization of multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDRO), as well as for the prevention of recurring MDRO infections. The researchers suggested that the implantation of good bacteria could restore normal gut microbiota, giving patients the ability to fight off resistant infections without need for other medical interventions.
A small, randomized trial in the United Kingdom recently tested the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of FMT delivered in capsule form. Among the subjects with invasive infections, 20 received FMT capsules, while 21 were part of the placebo group. The findings published in the July issue of the Journal of Infection indicated that encapsulated FMT was safe, well-tolerated and effective in colonizing the gut with healthy bacteria and eliminating superbugs. This study establishes the groundwork for a larger-scale investigation.
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Baking Soda: The All-Purpose Dynamo
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a versatile and economical household cleaner and personal care product that offers numerous benefits. Its non-toxic and biodegradable properties make it an environmentally friendly choice.
Cleaning and Freshening
• Kitchen Surfaces: Sprinkle on a damp sponge to clean countertops, sinks and greasy stovetops. Adding a few drops of tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint or orange essential oil will enhance the antibacterial properties.
• Pots and Pans: Use as a gentle abrasive to scrub pots and pans—even stainless steel.
• Drains: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of white vinegar down the drain. Allow it to fizz, then rinse with hot water. This is not a substitute for clearing clogs.
• Laundry Booster: Add half a cup to a load of laundry to soften the water, boost detergent effectiveness and neutralize odors. This natural solution is safe to use with baby items.
• Bathroom Fixtures and Surfaces: Mix an equal amount of baking soda and water or vinegar to form a paste for scrubbing sinks, tubs, tile and grout. For a deeper clean, combine with Castile soap instead of water or vinegar.
• Toilets: Use as a powdered cleanser, adding a few drops of a germ-fighting essential oil such as lavender, tea tree or lemon.
• Carpets: Mix a cup of baking soda with a few drops of geranium, lavender or ylang ylang essential oil and sprinkle it evenly over the carpet. After half an hour, vacuum thoroughly.
• Natural Deodorizer: Place an open box in the refrigerator to keep it smelling fresh. Sprinkling baking soda in garbage cans, shoes or gym bags can help eliminate unpleasant odors.
• Produce Cleaner: Mix one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of cold water and soak strawberries or other produce for 12 to 15 minutes. Gently rub the fruit or vegetables, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry. This method can reduce dirt, bacteria and some pesticide residues.
• Sterling Silver Polisher: Combine two tablespoons of lemon juice or distilled vinegar with two tablespoons of baking soda.
With a soft cloth, gently rub the mixture onto sterling silver items and rinse thoroughly. Allow more tarnished items to soak in the mixture for a few minutes before cleaning.
Personal Care
• Teeth Whitening: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the palm of the hand, dip a damp toothbrush into the solution and brush as usual. This method should only be used sparingly, as baking soda can damage tooth enamel.
• Skin Relief: Add half a cup of baking soda to a bath to soothe skin irritation. This solution is beneficial for eczema, poison ivy and dermatitis.
• Hair Cleansing: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a solution. Massage the mixture onto wet hair and rinse thoroughly. This shampoo alternative helps to reduce excess oil and buildup of styling products, restore pH levels, treat dandruff and lighten hair dye. It can also serve as a dry shampoo by simply combing it through dry hair. Long-term or excessive use is not recommended, as baking soda’s abrasive properties can cause split ends, irritate the scalp and strip hair of natural oils.
Small but Mighty
Growing and Enjoying Microgreens and Sprouts
by Chloe Karydes Krecun
Microgreens and sprouts are small but mighty, delivering considerable benefits for the health conscious. Whether grown at home or purchased fresh from a local grocer or farmers market, these superfoods make for an easy and accessible way to add texture, flavor and nutrients to everyday meals.
Subtle differences distinguish these two remarkable plants. Microgreens are edible, immature seedlings grown in soil or a similar medium and harvested upon the appearance of the first few cotyledon leaves. Sprouts are germinated seeds that are cultivated in water until they grow into an edible plant. Their roots, seeds and leaves are edible.
“Anyone can grow a small tray of microgreens on a windowsill or around a kitchen counter,” says Katie Staudt, owner and head grower of Meraki Urban Farm, in Chicago. She points out the common misconception that microgreens can only be grown in a liquid solution. While some do-it-yourself kits employ hydroponic techniques, they are not the most efficient growing method and may lead to mold growth.
“You don’t have to have a green thumb if you have the right information,” says Staudt. Because they can be easily propagated in small trays, microgreens are ideal for small, indoor spaces. She suggests using soilless media made of peat, coconut coir or hemp that allow for proper drainage while holding the right amount of moisture. The plants demand little maintenance and are usually harvested when the greens are one to three inches tall,
making them a perfect choice for individuals with limited gardening experience. Staudt recommends beginning with the radish sprout, which can grow and be ready to eat in as little as seven days. Kale, purple kohlrabi, red acre cabbage, bok choi and wasabi mustard sprouts are also easy-to-grow varietals.
Sprouts can be more challenging to grow because they require greater oversight to preserve food safety. It is important to soak the seeds in water and rinse them daily with clean water to maintain a moist environment while also reducing the risk of bacterial growth. According to agricultural experts at
Penn State Extension, bacteria in the sprouting seeds “can continue to thrive if proper food handling techniques are not practiced during harvest, processing and preparation.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides good agricultural practices for growing, harvesting, packing and holding sprouts, which include using clean water, wearing disposable sterile gloves when handling the seeds and sprouts, and cooling the sprouts to 32° F immediately after harvesting. The FDA strongly recommends cooking sprouts thoroughly before consuming them to eliminate harmful bacteria. Children, the elderly, pregnant women and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts altogether.
According to Dominique Kline, farm manager of The Hope Farm, in Alabama, “Radish or broccoli sprouts would probably be the easiest ones to start out with at home, just because those are some of the most reliable and have the fastest turnover.” Alfalfa, mung bean and sunflower sprouts are also relatively easy to grow.
Packed With Power
According to the U.S. Department of
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Agriculture, microgreens contain five times greater levels of vitamins and carotenoids than their mature plant counterparts, including vitamins C, E, K and A, as well as beta carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin and violaxanthin.
“You can eat 50 cups of broccoli or a single cup of broccoli sprouts for similar nutrition and benefit,” explains Emily Ho, nutrition professor and director of the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, in an article published by the American Heart Association.
It is important to understand that these plants’ shelf life is short once they are cut. “The closer they are to being alive, the better they are for you,” Kline asserts. For those that prefer to purchase their produce instead of growing it, local farmers markets or select grocery stores also offer fresh microgreens and sprouts that provide the same nutritional benefits and quality. This can be a convenient way to not compromise on freshness or effectiveness.
From Garden to Plate in Seconds
Not only are microgreens and sprouts relatively simple to grow, they are even easier to eat. Incorporating them into meals is quite straightforward. Kline recommends adding them to any hot or cold food as an easy nutrient boost. Sprinkle them on salads, eggs or pizza for added texture, contrast and flavor. Arugula and radish microgreens add a delightful peppery flavor, while mung beans offer a milder, slightly sweet experience, and sunflower sprouts lend a nutty flavor to any dish.
Spicy-Sweet Tofu and Bean Sprouts
YIELD: 4
SERVINGS
1 pkg extra firm tofu
2 cups bean sprouts, rinsed (approx. 16 oz)
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
1 Tbsp ginger, freshly grated
½ tsp ground coriander seed
½ tsp sea salt or smoked salt
Drain water from tofu then wrap it in paper towels and place it on a plate. Wait 10 minutes before gently pressing the tofu, causing excess water to be absorbed by the paper towels. Unwrap the tofu and cut it evenly into one-inch cubes. Set aside.
Whether enjoyed fresh from a windowsill at home or sourced from a local market, microgreens and sprouts bring nutrient density along with delicious flavors and textures, making them an attractive green to incorporate into everyday meals.
Chloe Karydes Krecun is a sophomore at University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. Connect at LinkedIn.com/in/chloe-karydes-krecun
¼ tsp smoked chipotle powder
¼ tsp cinnamon powder
3 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
1 Tbsp maple syrup
1 Tbsp molasses
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Add avocado oil or olive oil to a cast iron or other frying pan, set on medium-high heat until the pan is hot. Tilt the pan back and forth until the oil covers the entire surface. Be careful not to overheat the oil—it smokes if overheated.
Add the paprika, ginger, coriander, salt, chipotle, cinnamon, maple syrup and molasses to the pan. Using a fork, evenly distribute all of the ingredients in the hot oil.
When the spicy mixture bubbles, place the tofu cubes by hand into the pan. Lower the heat to medium. Brown the tofu about 2 minutes and then carefully turn it over to brown for another 2 minutes. Once browned, place the tofu onto a serving plate.
Add bean sprouts to the hot pan, stir with a fork until sprouts are hot. Add toasted sesame oil. Stir again and then remove pan from the stove.
Cover tofu with hot bean sprouts and serve immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com
Lemon Hummus Veggie Bowl With Sunflower Sprouts and Basil YIELD: 2 TO 3 SERVINGS
1 can chickpeas, chilled and drained
¼ cup tahini
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
4 Tbsp water
1 tsp tamari or liquid aminos
¼ tsp sea salt or smoked salt
¾ cup sunflower sprouts or mixed sprouts
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, tamari or liquid aminos and salt in a blender. Pulse blender a few times then blend ingredients until smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add another tablespoon of water. Transfer hummus to a bowl.
Add tomatoes, basil leaves and a thick layer of sprouts on top of the hummus. Drizzle everything with olive oil, an extra splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of tamari.
Enjoy with bread, pita, crackers or spooned over a bed of freshly made quinoa, couscous, lentils or a green salad.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
With Powerful Health Benefits
Locally & Organically-Grown Microgreens:
• Support Detoxing by eliminating toxins naturally
• High Fiber promotes gut health & digestive balance
• Known to have Anti-Cancer fighting properties
• Strengthen the Immune System and reduce inflammation
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One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals. — Jean Vanier
Microgreen Smoothie YIELD: 1 SERVING
1 cup frozen organic berries
1 cup coconut water
1 frozen banana
1 oz broccoli microgreens
2 Tbsp hemp seeds or chia seeds
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Katie Staudt.
Lorraine Maita
on A Natural Path Back to Health
by Sandra Yeyati
Lorraine Maita is a triple board-certified physician specializing in functional, integrative and anti-aging medicine. She is the author of Vibrance for Life: How to Live Younger and Healthier. The self-professed “Hormone Harmonizer and Detoxifier” has been featured on national media outlets, including ABC News and Forbes. She has served as chief medical officer at Prudential Financial, medical director of The Pfizer Health Leadership Team and medical director of North America for Johnson & Johnson Global Health Services.
Maita maintains a medical practice in New Jersey and is the CEO and founder of The Feel Good Again Institute, which offers doit-yourself courses, supplement protocols, strategies, resources, coaching and live classes focusing on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, gut health, detoxification and improving the healthspan. The institute aims to provide health education and self-care options for those that cannot afford or do not have access to functional medicine.
What
is a hormone imbalance?
If any hormone level is off, you’re going to feel off. For example, high cortisol levels can drive down other hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and the thyroid hormones, causing elevated blood sugar, blood cholesterol and blood pressure; weight gain; puffiness; fatigue; and forgetfulness. In women, estrogen dominance during PMS and perimenopause occurs when progesterone is low or absent, leading to anxiety, irritability, insomnia, weight gain, tender breasts, fibroids, irregular bleeding and physical aches, among other things. Those are just two examples of imbalances.
How do you treat hormone imbalances?
We always start with lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise and stress management, which help normalize cortisol levels, allowing other hormones to balance naturally. Initially, I’ll run tests to measure the levels of everything, and then we’ll start an elimination
and detoxification diet to reduce inflammation, the root cause of illness. I may also add herbs and supplements to decrease inflammation, heal the gut and detoxify the liver.
After this process, 80 percent of people feel good to great. For those that don’t, further investigation into the gut microbiome, mold, metals, infections or other inflammatory diseases may be needed. During menopause or late perimenopause, when eggs are depleted, progesterone and estrogen production may decline, necessitating hormone replacement therapy, as well.
Can you explain your detoxification protocol?
From the time you’re born, toxins accumulate in your fat and bone marrow, and even if you follow a clean lifestyle the effects of toxins can worsen, especially when women start to lose bone in menopause, because those metals and toxins start coming out.
To detoxify, you need to move your bowels every day. You need exercise to release toxins when you sweat and carbon dioxide when you breathe deeply. You need to hydrate to flush toxins through the kidneys. When you exercise the muscles, you bring toxins into your lymph system, which then get pumped into your bloodstream and liver to get detoxified.
Courtesy Lorraine Maita
What advice do you have for people taking conventional drugs for high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar?
Too much cortisol raises your blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels. Stress can stimulate your body’s stress reaction, causing cortisol to go up, and that’s why many people are overweight and have high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high cholesterol.
We can measure cortisol very easily. If your cortisol is too high, that’s a wake-up call to change your lifestyle and slow down. Sometimes people need permission to say I don’t have to do absolutely everything on my todo list and drive myself crazy.
Getting enough good-quality sleep is also important. Too many people get to bed too late. They’re on their tablets and phones, and all that blue light disrupts their hormones, so they don’t get a deep sleep, which is where you repair, rejuvenate and restore health, and also restore your hormones.
What advice do you have for people that struggle with cravings?
Sugar is as addictive as cocaine, and just like any addiction, you have to stay away from
it long enough to stop the cravings. My “15-minute rule” is that you have to distract yourself for 15 minutes to forget about the cravings. Supplements like L-glutamine can help, but the best approach is a minor withdrawal period, such as two weeks, to diminish cravings.
Healing the gut will also help to eliminate cravings. Processed foods and simple carbohydrates promote yeast growth and cravings, while fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats support beneficial bacteria. Our approach combines detoxification, elimination, a healthy diet and sleep to make gut healing a habit.
When it comes to making lasting changes, what comes first, the emotional or the biological?
It depends on the person. The biological will drive the emotional and the emotional will drive the biological, and that’s why having a good night’s sleep is important. When you’re tired, you’re going to crave more. When you’re tired, you’re going to be less inclined to move or develop healthy habits.
Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/MaitaWW or scan the QR code.
Courtesy Lorraine Maita
Courtesy Lorraine Maita
The Authentic Lifestyle
Learning To Realign With Our True Selves
by Carrie Jackson
Harmony in our daily routine provides a sustainable and fulfilling rhythm. A life in balance accommodates ambition and rest, effort and ease, honoring our individual energy and purpose. Instead of pursuing future goals and equating success with monetary gain or accomplishments, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and align our choices with personal values. By shifting from a rigid, externally oriented idea of success to
a more holistic, harmoniously driven approach, we can experience greater joy, purpose and authenticity.
Connecting to the Web of Life
In 2022, Yoli Maya Yeh, a yoga teacher, shiatsu therapist and educator whose work revolves around Indigenous preservation, healing arts and social justice, embarked on an adventure of global nomadism and worldschooling her now 13-year-old child.
Their journeys have taken them to many countries, including Morocco, Italy, Malta and Senegal. Yeh asserts that her lifestyle was not the result of a single decision but rather the culmination of focus, willpower and the strength of those that have walked before her.
“While entrepreneurship flows through my veins, without a clear vision, a sense of purpose and a deep well of confidence, I would not be able to be this assertive and daring in my approach to how I want to fulfill my dreams. I could decide to play small and feel contracted in my body, but that was not the intuitive guidance I have come to trust,” Yeh explains. “My vision is a life where I can be in spaces of belonging, collaborating and problem solving, dreaming and world-building our collective liberated future. In the present moment, I explore my inborn gifts and hone them to be of maximum service.”
She maintains that a path of development cannot be solely cerebral, sharing, “A traveling lifestyle provides me with a high level of
changefulness in which I can cultivate growth and adaptation through constant new experiences that challenge me to navigate unknowns. We must bring the transformative process into the body through active restoration tools and meaningful engagement with self.”
Harmony and resistance are felt in the body, and tapping into those signals enables us to deeply connect with our true selves. As Yeh puts it, “Perpetual analysis in the mind disconnects us from the experience of resonance, thus distancing us from actual alignment. A daily centering practice that draws on a collage of breathwork, mantra and meditative techniques allows us to hone our connection to the sensations in the body.”
As a respite from the demands of modern society, Yeh turns to yoga nidra, a yogic sleep meditation originating in South Asia, as well as other Indigenous wisdom traditions. “Living in the modern era presents us with contradictory factors,” she says. “We have more automation and digital support, while at the same time, we are cut off from our ancestral rejuvenation practices such as sacred dreaming, ritual and community celebration.”
Another valuable practice is rematriation, or “returning to the Sacred Mother”, which emphasizes the restoration of Indigenous knowledge and connection. “In this practice, we lay our tired bones down on the earth to rest and revive the ancestral wisdom that lives within. Like so many meditative and trance practices, one explores liminal states of consciousness where the mind expands well beyond the confines of the awake, thinking mind and amplifies creativity and a sense of freedom,” Yeh explains. “To experience fulfillment in life, we need a recipe that combines resonance of expansion and a sense of belonging. Success is the embodied expression of this connection to self and collective at the same time.”
Fulfilling Our Journey
Brianna Wiest is the bestselling author of numerous books, including 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think, The Pivot Year and The Mountain Is You. Her personal reflections are derived from years of selfinquiry and meditation practice, and her writing emphasizes emotional
intelligence and self-awareness as keys to meaningful success.
She notes that the conventional standard of success varies depending on an individual’s upbringing, network and environment. “There are ways in which society measures and corroborates a concept of success, and many people feel beholden to this definition. But this can become more defeating than motivating, as the idea of success is often divorced from the essence of what it should actually mean,” she says. “Success is effectiveness, but the question becomes: Effectiveness at what? Fulfillment is when we’re effective at something meaningful. It’s an internal gauge, rather than an external measure. Fulfillment is when we feel deep peace and inner satisfaction, regardless of how others may perceive our endeavors or pursuits.”
Shifting the focus away from the outcome, and more on our journey, is a practice that strengthens within the interplay of momentum and inertia. Wiest states, “The more we acknowledge and feel good about the progress we’re making, the more inclined we feel to make more of it. Often, we use the inverse on ourselves: We try to focus on the ways in which we’re falling behind (or imagine that we are) so as to motivate ourselves to move forward. This usually just compounds the mindset that we are incapable, and it’s not worth the effort. The best way to become more of anything is first to find evidence of the ways in which you already are that thing.”
Wiest recommends striking a balance between ambition and rest by fine-tuning intuition and strengthening the ability to respond effectively. “There’s no right way to divide up your time, and everyone’s needs differ,” she points out. “Rather than waiting until you’re at the point of depletion to think about taking care of yourself, sit honestly with the question of where you’d like your bandwidth to expand and how your body and mind signal that it’s time to decompress. In the same way that you have to rest a muscle after exercising it for it to strengthen, repair and grow, the rest of the body works similarly. It’s part of the process, not antithetical to it.”
Reflective practices such as meditation and journaling can enable us
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to be more mindful and make decisions that align with our values, instead of acting impulsively. Wiest suggests looking at life from the perspective of our 90-year-old self and considering what we would have done differently. “Mindfulness is a way of both stilling the waters of the mind and calming the inner chaos, while at the same time, giving us the chance to pause between having a thought and a feeling and then immediately responding to it,” she says. “It’s that gap of time where we get to consciously decide how we will react that ultimately creates our personal freedom.”
Living Our Soul’s Purpose
Author, podcaster and co-founder of the Dharma Coaching Institute, Sahara Rose Ketabi helps people discover their soul’s purpose. “Your dharma is the big reason why you are here,” she explains. “It’s your sacred mission, your truth and the sacred intersection of your joy and the world’s needs. When you’re aligned with your dharma, life begins to feel like a divine dance—yes, with challenges, but also with deep meaning. It’s not about being the best at something; it’s about being you, fully and unapologetically.”
Ketabi contends that the pursuit of success alone does not yield happiness; it is happiness that brings true success. “Success isn’t just about ticking boxes or climbing ladders. It’s about alignment,” she clarifies. “We can shift this mindset by tuning into our bodies, emotions and passions, asking, ‘Does this feel expansive? Does this nourish my soul?’ When your success is in service of your dharma, it feels sustainable, fulfilling and soul-led.”
Ketabi incorporates Ayurvedic wisdom into her teachings to help people tune into their own energy. “Ayurveda is the science of life, and your dharma is the reason you’re alive. They’re inherently connected. By understanding your dosha—vata, pitta or kapha—you understand your strengths, challenges and soul gifts,” she explains. “It’s not just about food or herbs; it’s about rhythm. If you’re a fiery pitta trying to force your purpose, you may burn out. A dreamy vata may need structure to bring ideas through. Ayurveda teaches you how to work with your energy, not against it, so your dharma can blossom naturally.”
Living as your most authentic self ultimately has a butterfly effect for making positive changes in the world. “When one person lives in their dharma, it shifts the field for everyone around them. It creates a ripple of remembrance,” says Ketabi. “I believe that your dharma is not just about you, but it’s about the impact you create through being you. It is not selfish to follow your joy; it’s necessary. When you do what you love, you become magnetic. You inspire others to stop settling, to heal and to rise. You become the permission slip they didn’t know they needed. Living your dharma is the highest form of spiritual activism.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Taking an Energy Inventory by
Carrie Jackson
In a world that can be overwhelmingly stimulating, taking a moment to focus on mindfulness helps us reset and refocus. “Your body is your temple, and your intuition is your oracle,” says dharma coach Sahara Rose Ketabi. She recommends meditation, intuitive journaling and embodied movement as catalysts for connecting to our inner guidance and discovering life’s purpose.
Meditation enhances listening skills, emotional awareness and overall human well-being. Turn off all distractions and notice any thoughts that arise.
Journaling transforms intangible thoughts into visible reflections. Take five minutes every day to jot down observations, feelings and sensations.
Embodied movement releases trapped tension, stress and trauma within the body. Start each day with a fluid, sensual and grounding movement session to foster greater joy, creativity, bliss, pleasure and peace.
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Seize the Day!
by Marlaina Donato
Art historian Bernard Berenson once said, “I wish I could stand on a busy corner, hat in hand, and beg people to throw me all their wasted hours.” Although no one has an inexhaustible number of years on the planet, we don’t realize that life is flying by. Most of us seem to be in a hurry all the time, even when we don’t need to be.
Memories of our most cherished moments have become intangible phantoms. Snapshots, stored on smartphones and rarely printed, are lost in a blizzard of social media posts. Although we photograph everything—even what’s on our dinner plate—the full engagement of our senses is perennially postponed to an ambiguous later date when we “have more time”. Somehow,
we have become spectators of our own lives, never quite living the moments our technology is preserving.
Consider the supplication of Roman poet Horace: Carpe diem! To seize the day is more than a feel-good motto. It can be a spiritual discipline. Unplugging from the compulsion to have a phone or camera in hand at all times can be a wonderful starting point. Reserving one day each week to turn off our devices and become fully immersed in meals and social activities can help us shed our public personas and get back to who we truly are.
Choosing to speak in person or on the phone instead of texting can remind us that human voices spark deep, human connection,
boosting the immune system and uplifting our mood. Face-to-face interactions remind us that we are valued and heard, and that we are capable of providing that crucial validation for others.
As our world spins into the age of artificial intelligence with so many exciting possibilities, we also want to ensure that what makes us human remains intact. Living fully and harmoniously is an invitation to cultivate authenticity, prioritize the present moment and inspire others by example. Seizing the day may truly be our greatest accomplishment.
Marlaina Donato is an author, visionary painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com
Listening to Kids Without Judgment
Nurturing Habits of a Harmonious Family
by Christina Connors
In an era when children are growing up in digital landscapes unfamiliar to many parents, establishing connections can feel like navigating a maze. But harmonious living is attainable through small, intentional moments that cultivate trust and emotional safety. Rather than solely emphasizing control or screen-time restrictions, deeper bonds can be created by tuning in with curiosity, presence and empathy. Here are some
strategies that parents and caregivers can employ to bridge the gap and foster connection.
Validating Emotions
“For decades—perhaps centuries—children have received consistent messaging about emotions: control them, contain them and, whenever possible, conceal them. This approach wasn’t necessarily malicious; it reflected cultural values that prioritized
stoicism and social harmony. The ‘good child’ was often the quiet child, the composed child, the one who didn’t ‘make a scene’,” says Lee Sowles, founder and CEO of Kind Mind, a program that teaches adults and children how to co-regulate, be kind and feel ready to learn. “When we support our kids’ emotions, we teach them that all feelings are valid—even the difficult ones— and then we can empower them with the
skills they need to process emotions in healthy ways. This fosters trust, emotional resilience and a more harmonious home environment where everyone feels seen and safe, which is crucial because children thrive when they feel understood and connected.”
Remaining Calm and Present
To communicate effectively and foster positive exchanges with our children, it is critical to keep emotions in check. According to Janet Philbin, a clinical social worker, certified conscious parent and life coach, as well as the author of Show Up for Yourself: A Guide to Inner Awareness and Growth, if a child comes to us upset, crying, whining or demanding, the best response is to remain level-headed and attentive.
“Pausing and tuning in allows us to come into harmony because we are moving from a sympathetic state of fight/flight to a state of calm and presence,” she says. “We are regulated, and our child can come to us with their emotions, feeling safe. We do not react; instead, we become grounded and present, allowing us to meet our child where they are and tune in to what they need, which is underneath the behavior we’re seeing. This is how harmonious relationships are created, because we have regulated our nervous system, and our child can regulate theirs.”
Keeping a Shared Journal
An effective method to foster mutual trust and respect with a child is with a shared journal in which parents and kids are able to communicate with each other through the written word. “Using the journal creates space to respond from a place of our loving hearts without judgment and putting aside the need to fix,” explains Philbin. “Our children will feel heard and safe, ultimately creating harmony in the relationship.”
Philbin shares how her family makes use of a shared journal, noting, “Our kids write to us about what they are struggling with and leave the journal for us in a safe space. When we find the journal, we take our time to respond to our child. In that response, we can let them know we hear them, that their feelings matter and that their struggle is real. We stay away from solving the problem, and instead just let them know that we are supporting them to work it through. Then
we hand the child back the journal, and this process continues.”
Establishing Rituals for Connection
Building a robust connection with a child doesn’t require grand gestures. Instead, it is about creating consistent, small moments that build an emotional rhythm. Here are a few suggestions:
• Make it a habit to take screen-free walks after dinner.
• Regularly journal about a common prompt—such as recounting a memorable or unexpected event—and then read the journal entries out loud to each other.
• Find opportunities to share common interests and spend quality time together, perhaps by playing the child’s favorite board game or video game.
Living harmoniously, particularly in parenting, is not solely about achieving balance, but also about cultivating presence. When we approach our children with empathy, curiosity and intention, we do not merely hear them; we genuinely see them. In this act of seeing, connection begins.
Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
The Harmonious Home
Décor Strategies That Promote Well-Being
by Megy Karydes
The spaces we call home hold untapped potential to become powerful allies in our pursuit of wellness and tranquility. Creating a truly restorative environment goes beyond incorporating organic cotton throws and essential oil diffusers. The secret lies in recognizing that homes are living entities rather than mechanical constructs for shelter.
Nature’s Blueprint
The human eye instinctively gravitates toward the soft curves and organic forms found in natural settings. Social psychologist Erich Fromm coined the term biophilia to describe an intrinsic affinity between living things. In architecture, biophilic design aims to create living spaces that foster wellbeing through a connection with nature.
One way to mimic nature indoors is through the use of curves and organic shapes, according to Lauren Riddei, a wellness interior designer and founder of Haus Holistics, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For instance, consider replacing angular coffee tables with round styles or swapping rectangular mirrors for curved versions.
Riddei recommends starting with one curved element at a time, making it “a goal that any new piece of art, furniture or accessory brought into the space has curves in them.” The recent trend toward rounded furniture reflects our innate craving for spaces where energy flows freely, unobstructed by sharp corners where it tends to get stuck.
Color psychology extends this natural approach beyond shapes. Rather than following fads, hues should be chosen based on current life needs, according to Lisa Morton, a holistic interior designer and
founder of Pure Living With Lisa Morton. “Maybe the client doesn’t need calm. Maybe they’re in a rut and need revitalization, in which case they need oranges, yellows and pinks,” she advises, adding that if the primary objective is to create a soothing environment, blues, greens and creams should be considered.
Morton also recommends that homeowners follow the seasonal rhythms as a way to “remind our body of being outdoors even when we can’t be.” For example, during the fall and winter months she incorporates chunky
rugs and throws crafted from natural fibers. As she explains, such textures resonate with the earth element of feng shui—the ancient Chinese practice of creating harmonious living spaces—thereby creating a sense of stability and grounding.
Intentional Energy Flow
The Bagua Map, a feng shui blueprint for energy centers, charts a path for establishing harmony throughout the home. “The centermost area of your home connects to every other important energy center,” Morton asserts. “By lifting the energy of your
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center area, it affects every other part of your home.”
This intentional care radiates outward. Identifying the home’s center point (imagine a bird’s-eye view of the floor plan) and showering it with attention involves replacing burned-out bulbs, thoroughly vacuuming, fluffing pillows and adding thriving plants or fresh flowers. “If your whole home feels stuck and stagnant, and you do work on this living area, it’s going to radiate out,” she remarks.
According to Morton, the front door deserves equal attention, because in feng shui, it is associated with new opportunities and fresh energy. “A lot of people don’t use their front door. They come and go through the garage,” she observes, recommending that people find ways to regularly use the front door—whether walking the dog or taking morning strolls—as a way to invite new, restorative energy into the home. Shaking out welcome mats, ensuring the smooth functioning of locks and adding seasonal wreaths all contribute to this goal.
Licensed therapist turned interior designer and author of Home Therapy Anita Yokota takes this intentional approach further with her concept of “core desire”. Rather than making design decisions first and seeing how they make inhabitants feel, she flips the process by asking, “How do you want to feel and be in this space? What relationships do you want to thrive here?” This therapeutic approach ensures that every choice serves deeper needs, rather than following external trends.
Creating Sensory Sanctuaries
Another overlooked aspect of holistic home design is sound. While homeowners may obsess over visual elements, they often ignore how acoustic pollution affects well-being. “We are sensitive to loud noises and vibrations,” Riddei says. “We need an environment that won’t keep us on edge when we come home from a long day.” Her unconventional solution involves wind chimes tuned to the healing frequencies of 432 or 528 Hertz (Hz), which she asserts are associated with peace and love. This is particularly helpful for people that live on a noisy road.
Research published in the journal Health found that music tuned to the frequency of 528 Hz significantly reduced stress after only five minutes of listening. For those sensitive to auditory stimulation, Yokota suggests implementing additional insulation or sound-absorbing wall panels.
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
Julie Konstantinidi from Getty Images/ CanvaPro
Mindful Workouts
Introducing Mental Wellness Modalities at the Gym
by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN
Mental wellness is no longer considered a separate pillar of health; it is becoming deeply integrated into physical fitness routines across the country. As the discourse surrounding emotional and psychological well-being becomes more open and less stigmatized, there is a shift in how people approach exercise. Not only is fitness focused on building muscle and burning calories, but increasingly it is about fostering resilience, restoring balance and supporting the mind as well as the body.
This integration of mental wellness emphasizes practices such as breathwork, guided meditation, intentional recovery and nervous system regulation as core components of a comprehensive fitness regimen. For health-conscious individuals seeking vitality and longevity, this is a natural evolution of holistic living.
“The physical body reflects what is mindfully and energetically present,” shares Dawn Coleman, a certified personal trainer and life transformation coach based in Cedarburg,
Wisconsin. “Honoring the body’s physical well-being requires that we consider energetic pathways that allow the nurturing of the soul and mind, which, in turn, promotes physical fitness.”
Mind-Body Integration
Today’s approach goes beyond the endorphin rush of a workout. Wellness buffs are looking for fitness environments and tools that help calm the mind, process emotions and foster inner strength. Gyms and studios are responding by incorporating stress-relieving modalities into their offerings. It is not uncommon to find yoga classes ending with a 10-minute guided meditation or strength sessions that begin with focused breathwork. Even high-performance athletes are embracing these new tools, recognizing that mental clarity and nervous system regulation enhance both performance and recovery.
• Breathwork: According to Coleman, conscious breathing exercises help regulate the nervous system and lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A 2023 meta-analysis published in the journal Nature found that breathwork may be effective for improving stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Techniques like box breathing, diaphragmatic breathing or alternate nostril breathing can be layered into warm-ups, cool-downs or standalone sessions.
• Meditation and Visualization: Whether it’s a guided meditation before sleep or a visualization practice to prepare for a race, meditation trains the brain for focus, reduces anxiety and enhances emotional resilience. Research published in Frontiers in Psychology affirms that tailored visualization improves athletic performance and establishes the mental toughness needed to achieve both long-term and short-term goals.
• Recovery Rituals: Recuperation is a vital part of training. Therapies involving infrared saunas, float tanks, cryotherapy and contrast baths support muscle repair while simultaneously calming the nervous system and promoting mental relaxation.
A 2023 randomized crossover study of 20 basketball players, pub lished in Biology of Sport, reported improvements in muscle recov ery and reduced soreness when exercise was followed by an infra red sauna session. A peer-reviewed article in in Sports & Exercise reported that exercisers that followed highintensity interval training with a one-hour floatation session ex perienced enhanced recovery from sore muscles and improved performance readiness.
• Tai Chi and Qigong: These mindful movement disciplines em phasize intention, awareness and breath, creating space for physi cal vitality and mental clarity.
Reimagining the Gym
The design of fitness spaces is evolving toward environments that promote wholeness and healing. Lighting and music are intention ally curated to create inviting atmospheres, while recovery lounges are incorporated for meditation or breathwork practices. This evo lution has been particularly meaningful for women experiencing burnout, hormonal fluctuations or chronic stress.
Rather than pushing through fatigue or anxiety, individuals are
adopting restorative practices that align with their physical needs. Many gyms, as well as yoga and Pilates studios, are offering supplemental therapies to support mental and physical fitness objectives. Sauna, red light and cold plunge therapies have become more accessible than ever.
Enduring Wellness
Mental wellness integration is more than a trend; it is a redefinition of what it means to be fit, challenging the old “no pain, no gain” model and replacing it with a deeper, more sustainable approach to health.
This shift is being embraced not only because it feels good in the moment, but also because it supports long-term well-being. People are learning to treat their minds with the same care and intention as their muscles. By doing so, they are redefining strength, not as something visible, but as something profoundly felt—steady breathing, calm thoughts, inner peace. In a fast-paced world that often demands more and more, mental wellness integration offers a path toward greater equilibrium, presence and joy throughout the journey.
Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.
Yan Krukau
Good Vibrations
Harnessing the Power of Sound To Promote Healing and Relaxation
by Marlaina Donato
From the haunting drone of an Australian didgeridoo to the steady heartbeat of a frame drum, cultures around the world have used sound to facilitate healing for thousands of years. In modern times, scientific research corroborates what native cultures have intuitively known: Soundbased vibration and resonance affect our body at the cellular level.
“As you consider the efficacy of sound
vibration in the body, it is important to understand that our cells, organs, bones, tissue and cerebral spinal fluid are all composed of water. We are more than 70 percent water, and sound travels four times faster in water than in air. The human body is a natural resonator for sound,” says Ellen F. Franklin, Ph.D., co-founder and chief executive officer of the Acutonics Institute of Integrative Medicine, in Llano, New Mexico, who draws from East Asian medicine, Western
science, psychology, physics and music theory to provide sound vibration therapies.
The use of Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, percussion instruments, calibrated tuning forks, gongs, cymbals, chimes, flutes and vocalization affects brain waves by inducing parasympathetic relaxation and modulating pain perception. Directly impacting the vagus nerve, strategic sound applications can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic pain and trauma response, and can be useful for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Improved sleep quality, heightened creativity and inner calm are additional potential benefits.
Cutting-Edge Soundwaves
Histotripsy, a new U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved technology, employs high-pitched, focused ultrasound energy to break up liver tumors. Similarly, lithotripsy uses ultrasonic shock waves to eliminate kidney stones. Acoustic engineering has also emerged as a promising tool for diagnosis, encompassing brain seizures, heart disease modeling and medication screening.
According to Franklin, co-author of Acutonics From Galaxies to Cells: Planetary Science, Harmony and Medicine, the vagus nerve can be activated via the application of calibrated tuning forks crafted from aerospace-grade metal to key acupuncture points along the body’s meridians (energy pathways). “A number of studies have shown that the vagus nerve is particularly sensitive to sound vibration. DU 20, a key acupoint, addresses stress and trauma, as it can be used to help people wake up the brain and open the mind, and is often used for cognitive disorders and many stress-related symptoms,” she explains, adding that this work is currently being used in clinical settings for patients that do not respond effectively to conventional methods or exhibit drug resistance.
Trauma, Tranquility and Brain Health
The rhythmic patterns of electrical activity in the brain produce distinct frequencies that are associated with mental states, emotions and cognitive functions. Throughout our waking and sleeping life, the brain shifts
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through gamma, beta, alpha, theta and delta states. When we transition to the alpha state using sound therapies like drumming, binaural beats, singing bowls or gongs, we feel calmer and more joyful. Either by playing or listening, therapeutic hand drumming synchronizes the left and right hemispheres of the brain and may be valuable in augmenting cognitive function, retraining the brain after a stroke or improving the management of conditions such as autism, Alzheimer’s disease and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
“The frame drum can significantly influence brain waves, primarily through a process called rhythmic entrainment. The pulses of the drum, especially when played at specific tempos, can induce the brain to synchronize with these rhythms, leading to shifts in brain wave patterns,” says Michael McCullough, a sound healing practitioner at The Healing Sanctuary, in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
“Using the perfect fifth, or a 128 Hertz, tuning fork can also boost the body’s production of nitric oxide and balance the autonomic nervous system, releasing antibacterials, antivirals and free radicals on a microscopic level.”
Incorporating therapeutic sound modalities in our healing regimens can broaden the potential for physical and mental well-being. McCullough recommends trying a group sound bath, which is a meditative session where participants lie on a yoga mat or blanket and listen to a diverse range of sounds. He acknowledges that private sessions with a skilled practitioner may also be beneficial because they can be tailored to individual needs and provide a more comprehensive experience.
While Franklin also recommends such sound healing experiences, she cautions, “Frequencies can be used to promote health and wellbeing, but we always advise people to educate themselves. When working with sound medicine therapeutics, less is more.” Excessive sound therapy—too much or too often—could aggravate the nervous system in some individuals, causing unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, disorientation or headaches.
Marlaina Donato is an author, musician and painter. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
Master the art of accessing the Akashic Records in this 10-week, live practitioner training with Julie Genereux. — Live Zoom classes every Wednesday, 1–3:30pm EST. Whether for personal empowerment or professional practice, gain accuracy and effectiveness. Transform your connection to wisdom & guidance. To register, call 561-203-9714 or visit https://JulieGenereux. com/akashic-records/
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
Lucidelix Community Keditation — 4-8pm, Join us for an intentional evening of conscious connection through our group ketamine and sound meditation. Medical supervision, preparation, and integration coaching included. Boca Raton. Space is limited, contact Lucidelix at 954-501-0671 for a free Discovery Call. Lucidelix.net
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29
90+ minute Holistic “Booze-Free” Happy Hour — 6:30-8pm (weather permitting), $59. A wellness journey that feels like a dance party for your soul! Feel calm, clear, and refreshed. Includes somatic breathwork, sound healing, mindful movement, biohacking, journaling, sauna, & cold plunge. SHIFT Wellness Club, 1041 NE 45th St, Oakland Park, ShiftWellnessClub.com
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
Enrolling Now! Do you have a desire to help people? — Become a licensed Acupuncturist! Earn a master’s degree in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in 36 months! Fall class starts Sept. 8, 2025. Approved for Veteran training & Financial Aid available. Day and night schedules. Call 954-763-9840 ext. 213 or admissions@ atom.edu.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
Tequesta Fall Equinox Drum Circle —711 PM $20 Celebrate the Fall Equinox with drumming, dancing and a giant bonfire! We gather on the Equinox to honor the Earth. Park gate closes at 10 PM No alcohol, drugs, or pets! This is a “MOOP-free event.” Moonpath Circle, Inc. 501(C)(3).
Sunday
IANDS South Florida - International Association for Near Death Studies — 1st Sunday monthly, 3-5pm. Discussions include Spiritually Transformative Experiences. All interested in the studies are welcomed. Locations vary, call for details. Reverend Gail Fein, 305-798-8974.
Monday
ATOM Intern Clinic Open to public — Appointments Monday thru Saturday. Experience the benefits of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. Low cost acupuncture and herbal treatments. Students supervised by Licensed Acupuncturist. 954-7639840 ext. 201, Ft. Lauderdale. ATOM.edu
Tuesday
Restorative Yoga — Second Tuesday monthly. Noon-1pm. Free. Gentle Yinrestore and stretching yoga allows you to drop deep into the meditative aspects while loosening tight muscles and joints. The Pride Center, Wilton Manors. Register at WellnessProgramRestore.Eventbrite.com.
Pines Iyengar Yoga — Enjoy yoga classes with Asha! Tuesday/Thursday, 5:15-6:15pm. Specializing in small group and individual sessions. Enjoy personalized classes that cater to your needs. Call 954-866-3209 for directions or visit PinesIyengarYoga.com
Wednesday
Midweek Reset: Vibrational Bliss — 8–9pm, $25. A healing sound meditation to soothe the nervous system, clear energetic blocks, and reconnect you with your inner peace and purpose. Guided by Michelle Morris. Space is limited—reserve today. Bombay Room Yoga, 3354 NE 33rd St, Fort Lauderdale, 954-5671110, BombayRoomYoga@yahoo.com, BombayRoomYoga.com
Saturday
Paddle With A Purpose, Waterway and Shoreline Cleanup — 9–11am, help remove trash (third Saturday monthly). Kayaks, and canoes available on a first come, first serve basis; bringing your own. Location varies. Owen Gaither, Kool2care2@gmail.com
Talk@Ten Saturday with Jon Albee — 1011am, free. Regenerative backyard gardening protocols with an occasional seed exchange. Diversity for richness and balance. Urban Farming Institute (UFI), 1101 NE 40th Ct, Oakland Park, 954.696.9577.
The Mindful Thinker, Law of Attraction, Group Discussion — 3-4:15pm, 1st Saturday monthly, $25. Receive tools to help guide you in manifesting desires into your reality. Bombay Room Yoga, 3354 Northeast 33rd St, Fort Lauderdale, 954-567-1110, BombayRoomYoga.com
Monday—Saturday
Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine (ATOM) Intern Clinic is Open to the public! Experience the benefits of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. Low-cost acupuncture and herbal treatments. Students supervised by Licensed Acupuncturists. Open Mon-Sat. Appointments: 954-7639840 ext. 201, 100 E Broward Blvd, Suite 100, Ft. Lauderdale. ATOM.edu
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HairHolistic@gmail.com
HairHolistic.com
Hair services & products with a truly holistic approach like scalp-hair detox, and jet rejuvenation. Hair coloring with Henna or eco-friendly dyes, and formaldehydefree keratine.
Holistic Healing
NEW START NUTRI CENTER 23257 State Rd 7, Ste 104, Boca Raton 561-566-0019
Instagram: @NewStartNutriCenter
Holistic Therapist specializing in Live Blood Analysis. Minerals and vitamins testing, and heavy toxins assessment. Schedule your appointment today. Prevention — a pillar of natural medicine.
Homeopathy
HOMEOPATHY CURE
Dr. Iqbal Nazir, M.S.D.Pharm, D.H.S. Licensed Lab Medicine Practitioner 954-226-3652
HomeopathTreatment.com
35+ years experience treating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, allergies, digestive issues and many more naturally. Non-toxic remedies with no side effects.
Call today — free consultation available!
Ketamine-Assisted Coaching
LUCIDELIX, LLC
954-501-0671
Info@Lucidelix.net
Lucidelix.net
Psychospiritual coaching with a ketamine catalyst. Online and concierge IV treatment available. Optimize your mental and emotional health through our individualized programs.
Mental Health
INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS
Josiane Bonté, PhD, LMHC 786-553-5871
DrJosiane@gmail.com
TheIntegrativeWellness.com
Find inner power through compassionate love, Qi Gong, and EMDR therapy.
Foster self-love, harmony, balance, and relational integrity in your relationships. Changing your mind, changes your Life!
SuperFoods
LOVING MY GREENS
954-282-9898
Thrive@LovingMyGreens.com
LovingMyGreens.com
Microgreens — locally and organically grown — packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fueling your health naturally and supporting a vibrant, nutritious lifestyle. Delivery available. See ad page 13.
Acupuncture & Ozone Therapy. Experience activated oxygen treatments that stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance wellness by activating stem cells. Effective for pain, autoimmune conditions, and detoxification. Call today for renewed vitality.
Physical Therapist
INTENTIONAL CONNECTIONS
Dr. Luan Menda, DPT, PT 1451 W Cypress Creek Rd, Suite 337 Fort Lauderdale FL 33309 954-300-5155
Luan@ICMFR.com ICMFR.com
An MFR Specialist — Whole-body physical therapy specializing in myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and wellness/happiness coaching for comprehensive patient healing.
Wellness Events
SHIFT WELLNESS CLUB
Stephanie OBrien 1041 NE 45th St, Oakland Pk, 33334 ShiftWellnessClub.com
SHIFT: Where vitality is wellness! Upgrade your mind, body & vibe with Breathwork, Biohacking, Sauna, Cold Plunge, Events, Classes & Retreats. Start your SHIFT today! See ad page 18.
Primary Health Care with a Natural Approach including Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, Quantum Biofeedback, Weight Loss, Detoxification, Natural Allergy Treatment, Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies, Supplements, Nutrition, Lifestyle Counseling, Circulation enhancement/BEMER therapy, BrainTap and NeuralChek. See ad page 27.
Yoga
BOMBAY ROOM YOGA
3354 NE 33rd St, Ft Lauderdale 954-567-1110
BombayRoomYoga.com
Experience guided spiritual and physical growth on your yoga journey. Disconnect from the outside world and connect within with our expert instructors. Join us now!
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