The first time I smelled this perfume, it was love at first scent. The scent is unique, fragrant and long lasting. As a person who has sensitivity toward certain brands of makeup and perfume, I am very careful what products I use. I have used this perfume for quite some time now and I have never had any allergic reaction to it. This perfume is produced with the finest ingredients, and the person who wears it will stand out in a good way. I am a loyal customer, and I will continue to use this amazing perfume. — Carol C.
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Dear Readers,
As we move into the final month of the year, this issue invites readers to explore the many ways joy and wellbeing can be nurtured in both ordinary and meaningful moments.
December often brings reflection, celebration, and a renewed appreciation for the practices that support healthier, more connected lives. This month’s articles highlight the power of awareness, intention, and community, offering practical guidance and inspiration across a range of wellness topics.
In our feature on cultivating joy (page 16), we invite you to a thoughtful exploration of the deeper nature of joy and how it differs from momentary happiness. Drawing from research, contemplative teachings, and the growing field of conscious movement, the article looks at how practices like dance, mindfulness, and meaningful social relationships can support mental and emotional well-being.
Our Inspiration Department’s article, December’s Duality (page 12) expands on this theme by reflecting on the coexistence of joy and melancholy during the winter season. The article encourages readers to notice both sides of this emotional terrain with honesty and self-compassion, suggesting that acknowledging harder
emotions can deepen one’s capacity for joy.
The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping (page 14) turns attention to community, reminding us of the value found in supporting local businesses. Beyond the charm of discovering unique gifts, local shopping keeps money circulating within the community, strengthens social connection, and fosters a healthier, more vibrant local economy. The article encourages taking time to slow down, enjoy neighborhood shops and markets, and savor the human connections that make the season meaningful.
The Magic of Gourmet Salts (page 20) invites readers to enjoy the depth and variety of naturally occurring salts in the kitchen. Boosting Canine Health (page 26) provides holistic strategies to strengthen immune health for our dogs.
As we close the year, may these pages offer encouragement to discover moments of joy, embrace what nourishes you, and create space for what matters most.
“Joy is not in things. It is in us.”
— Richard Wagner
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Know Yourself: A Resource for Healing and Self-Mastery
Knowing oneself is essential to spiritual growth. Not knowing who we truly are leads to struggle in relationships, work, and daily life. While there is much noise about wisdom and spiritual growth, the Akashic Records cut through the confusion, granting direct access to one’s soul truth.
The Records hold the story of a soul’s evolution: the learnings, challenges, triumphs, and karmic patterns that shape present reality. Within them lies guidance for understanding life experiences and wisdom for unlocking higher potentials. Working with this sacred field, individuals gain clarity to release self-sabotaging patterns and outdated beliefs, and live with deeper peace and purpose.
Learning to engage with the Records is a lifelong gift. Through them, one can illuminate what hides in shadow, realign with soul purpose, and discover the wisdom that empowers self-mastery. As one student shared: “This course changed the way I see my life. Success or failure have no meaning from the soul’s perspective; they are simply lessons through which we grow.”
Julie Genereux will offer her next training program starting January 22, 2026. Learn more at juliegenereux.com/about-theakashic-records or contact Genereux at info@juliegenereux.com, 561-203-9714. See ad, page 28.
Acclaimed Artist Cherie Bender to Showcase her Oil Paintings at Red Dot Miami During Art Basel
Cherie Bender is very excited to announce that she will be participating this year with two beautiful pieces of her artwork during Art Basel in the Artavita World Wide Art Gallery at Red Dot Miami, December 3–7, 2025.
One of the oil paintings is shown here in the photograph of Bender working in her studio. The piece, titled Magnolia ‘Lil Jewel, is embedded with Swarovski crystals and signed in the upper right corner with bugle beads, along with symbolic charms of a skull and a butterfly. The other oil painting to be shown is a framed diptych (two panels) titled Mistral
Bender’s name and website information will appear in the official show catalog. A continuous video loop displaying Bender’s paintings with the other artists’ works will be showing outside the Artavita Red Dot Gallery, providing enhanced visibility among the international Art Basel audience.
Bender said, “I look forward to seeing you at the Red Dot Miami show!”
The exhibition takes place at Mana Wynwood Exhibition Center, 2217 NW Fifth Avenue, Miami, FL 33127. Opening night is December 3, 2025.
For further information or to be placed on the list for complimentary tickets, please call the artist, Bender, directly at her cell number: 561-789-1648. See her ad on page 29.
The Art of Cosmetic Dentistry
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Kissing Bug Disease Spreads Across 32 States
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared Chagas disease endemic to the United States, meaning that it is consistently present in the country. The disease is transmitted to humans and animals, including cats and dogs, through the feces of blood-sucking kissing bugs. After biting its victim, the bug’s feces deposit the parasite that causes the disease.
The CDC reports that kissing bugs are native to the Southern U.S., but they have been found in 32 states. Chagas disease, which may initially show no symptoms, is a potentially fatal illness that can lead to chronic conditions such as heart failure, an enlarged heart or an enlarged colon. The CDC’s endemic declaration should increase awareness of Chagas disease among doctors and veterinarians, leading to more diagnoses and reporting. The declaration also paves the way for more research investment into improved diagnostics, treatments and prevention.
Ultra-Processed Foods Undermine the Healthiest Diets
Ayurveda Detox for Multiple Sclerosis Relief
A 2025 observational study in India, published in the International Journal of Medical and Public Health, investigated the effectiveness of Ayurveda, specifically Panchakarma therapy, in managing pain and improving the quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune neurological disease that inflames and damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Panchakarma involves cleansing procedures designed to detoxify the body and balance the three doshas (energies) in Ayurveda—vata, pitta and kapha.
Over the span of four years, 120 female MS patients aged 19 to 50 received personalized Panchakarma treatments, including snehana (oil therapy), swedana (steam therapy), vamana (induced vomiting), virechana (purgation), basti (enema), nasya (nasal therapy) and rasayana (rejuvenation), alongside yoga and meditation. While 20 percent of the participants showed limited benefits, the remaining 80 percent experienced significant improvements in self-reported pain, mobility and overall well-being, allowing them to reduce their reliance on corticosteroids.
While observational studies lack control groups and cannot establish causal relationships, they can be useful for exploring associations. Further research with larger sample sizes and a control group is needed to confirm these findings.
Ultra-processing breaks down whole foods into components and recombines them with additives, flavors, colors and emulsifiers, often making them high in calories, salt, sugar and fat. A 2024 study published in eClinicalMedicine examined the consumption of ultraprocessed and minimally processed foods among 200,000 adults with various dietary patterns, including regular red meat eaters, low red meat eaters, flexitarians, pescatarians, vegetarians and vegans. Food frequency questionnaires and food diaries were used to determine diet type and ultra-processed food intake.
Across all diet types, ultra-processed foods made up roughly onefifth to one-quarter of total daily food intake. Vegetarians and vegans consumed slightly more ultra-processed foods than regular red meat eaters. Low red meat eaters, flexitarians and pescatarians ate modestly fewer ultra-processed foods than regular red meat eaters. All other groups ate more minimally processed foods than regular red meat eaters.
These findings challenge the assumption that plant-based diets inherently contain fewer processed foods. Vegetarian diets included slightly more ultra-processed foods than meat-heavy diets, while diets with modest amounts of meat or fish had the lowest ultraprocessed food levels.
The authors noted that plant-based diets vary in quality depending on the degree of processing. While meat and dairy alternatives are often perceived as sustainable, many are highly processed. Simply replacing meat with packaged plant products may not yield the expected health or environmental benefits.
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Building Emotional Resilience in Cancer
Survivors
Cancer survivors often experience emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression and fatigue. A study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated how mind-body practices could support the emotional recovery of nearly 600 cancer survivors with breast, prostate and gastrointestinal cancers, from early to advanced stages.
Participants were either randomly assigned or chose to join mindfulness-based cancer recovery (MBCR) or a tai chi/qigong (TCQ). Each program group was split into those that began their program immediately and a control group that was placed on a waitlist. The MBCR group met weekly for nine weeks and attended a six-hour weekend retreat between weeks six and seven. The TCQ group met weekly for 11 weeks and for a four-hour weekend retreat. Both groups were encouraged to practice daily at home for 30 to 45 minutes.
By the end of the study, both groups showed significant mood improvements compared to the waitlist control group, regardless of whether they chose their program or were randomly assigned. The MBCR group had the greatest reductions in tension, anger and fatigue, with increased energy. The TCQ group notably lowered depression and anger, and boosted vitality. Women benefited more from the MBCR program than men, while younger participants and those with advanced cancer cases responded more strongly to the TCQ program. The study provides strong evidence that gentle mind-body practices are powerful tools to support emotional healing of cancer survivors.
Do not wait until the near end of your life to realize that you have not fully lived to love.
—Lailah Gifty Akita
Understanding How Magic Mushrooms Affect the Brain
Psilocybin, a naturally psychedelic compound found in fungi known as magic mushrooms, distorts space-time perception. A 2024 study published in Nature investigated the brain activity of seven healthy adults before, during and three weeks after taking a high dose of psilocybin and methylphenidate, a stimulant commonly used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Participants returned six to 12 months later for another psilocybin dose. Researchers used 18 magnetic resonance images (MRI) to track specific brain changes.
The study revealed that psilocybin significantly disrupted brain connectivity pathways, particularly in regions of the brain linked to self-awareness, time and space, with the most notable changes in the default mode network (DMN). The DMN includes brain regions associated with the sense of self and reality that are active during self-reflection, daydreaming, memory retrieval and mind-wandering.
Psilocybin’s disruption of brain activity could explain the profound changes in perception reported by users. Participants with greater brain changes reported more intense experiences. The brain connectivity desynchronization persisted for weeks, potentially explaining the enduring therapeutic benefits in treating conditions like depression.
kali9 from Getty Images
The Fall of Orange Juice
Once a staple of the American breakfast, health and economic concerns have led to a decline in orange juice consumption. Beginning in the 1950s, the Florida Citrus Commission promoted it to boost vitamin C levels and prevent colds and acidosis, a condition where the body accumulates too much acid. At its peak, three-quarters of households kept orange juice in their refrigerators.
Over the past 20 years, orange juice consumption has plummeted by nearly 50 percent. It contains as much sugar as soda, contributing to the obesity and diabetes crises. The price has surged by 67 percent in the past decade, driven by the loss of almost 92 percent of Florida’s citrus groves due to a bacterial disease spread by an invasive insect, which makes the fruit bitter and weakens the trees, and by an increase in hurricanes linked to global warming. Hurricane Milton alone destroyed an estimated 20 percent of Florida’s orange crop.
A New Piece in the Human Evolutionary Puzzle
A New Scientist article confirmed that a 146,000-year-old skull found 90 years ago in Harbin, China, be longs to a Denisovan, an ancient hominin race. This discovery provides scientists with a clear image of Denisovans, which had faces similar to ours, but with prominent brow ridges, a smaller forehead and a long braincase. Researchers believe that Denisovans are more closely related to modern humans than Neanderthals, based on the estimated age of our common ancestors. This finding will prompt a reevaluation of other East Asian fossils.
Denisovans were first identified in 2010 through a finger bone and teeth found in a cave in Siberia, Russia. Scientists matched mitochondrial DNA from the Siberian tooth to Denisovan proteins in the skull.
A New Era for Ocean Conservation Begins
After two decades of effort, the High Seas Treaty, officially the Treaty for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, was ratified by Morocco (the 60th nation) in September, becoming international law in January 2026. Although the United States signed the treaty, it has not been ratified by the Senate. This treaty replaces a patchwork of international and industrial organization rules.
The treaty establishes a legal framework to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in two-thirds of the oceans beyond any country’s exclusive economic zone. The treaty’s goals are to protect marine life; establish protected areas; regulate marine genetic resources; and promote equitable benefit sharing, capacity building, marine technology transfer and environmental-impact assessment of oceanic activities.
Human Artifacts Found in Vulture Nests
In a study published in the journal Ecology, archaeologists report the discovery of more than 200 human artifacts in the nests of bearded vultures. The scientists rappelled down cliffs to 12 abandoned nests of these bone-eating raptors, which vanished from the cliffs a century ago. Only 308 breeding pairs remain in Europe.
Bearded vultures build and maintain nests for long periods, sometimes for centuries, resulting in thick structures made of a variety of materials, including branches and bones. The scientists found well-preserved human items that were 150 to 675 years old, including leather items, fabric fragments, tools, a crossbow bolt and a slingshot. The most surprising discovery was a sandal made from woven esparto grass believed to be between 650 and 750 years old. The cool, dry conditions in the cliff caves preserved the artifacts.
Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.
—Muhammad Ali
Deforestation Dulls Butterfly Colors
Scientists in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest have found that butterflies are losing their color. This research is part of a study on the discoloration or alteration of color in the natural world caused by human-driven environmental changes. The earliest known instance of such a change was during the Industrial Revolution, when the peppered moth turned black to blend into its sooty surroundings.
In Brazil, scientists observed a stark difference between butterflies in the rainforest and those in deforested areas. The rainforest is home to a wide array of colorful butterflies, whereas those in deforested regions are brown or grey. In eucalyptus plantations that have replaced the rainforest, dull-looking butterflies thrive. Deforestation impacts the most colorful species first, as the loss of vegetation makes them more vulnerable to predators. Without the protection of natural habitats, the most colorful and ecologically special species could be lost.
David O’Brien from Getty Images/CanvaPro
December’s Duality
Embracing Joy and Melancholy
by Marlaina Donato
December can be a bittersweet paradox of festive celebrations and short, gloomy days filled with contrasting emotions. As the old year fades into the golden spark of a new beginning, we may find ourselves entangled in the beautiful complexity of being human. The twelfth month challenges us to accept the dichotomy of jubilation and melancholy, eagerness and regret. By acknowledging and making room for the harder emotions, we can fully embrace joy
Just as the bare trees of the north stand boldly against the sky, December urges us to dive into self-honesty to discover the eternal flame deep within us, untouched by the world’s chaos. Celebrating the holy days of winter can be an internal, sacred journey.
Kindling the flames of empathy and goodwill is a form of self-care that ignites positive change for ourselves and others. Embodying our light can be as simple as pausing before reacting in anger or allowing others to hold their own opinions, even when they differ from ours. Feeling more alive in our merriness often happens effortlessly when we choose to live and let live.
As winter arrives and sweet aromas fill the kitchen, December allows us to embrace all that is beautiful and nourishing. Should a ghost of wistfulness haunt a moment of glee, we can choose to embrace what is possible in the present moment between the past and the future. This month, be inspired to:
• Release the need to control outcomes and welcome spontaneity and flow.
• Embody joy without guilt, even when the world seems in turmoil.
• Allow feelings of grief while cherishing fond memories of lost loved ones.
• Invest in what brings lasting joy and meaning.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
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The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping
Making the Most of the Human Touch
by Marlaina Donato
There is something special about stepping into the cozy warmth of a coffeehouse, sampling the latest offerings at the bakery or discovering a rare edition at the local bookshop. Our hometowns, like their people, have a unique spirit, and shopping locally during the holiday is a full-sensory delight. “Online shopping is convenient, but nothing beats an in-person interaction and seeing how happy a local business owner gets when you purchase something,” says Jacqueline De Leeuw, a fine artisan and owner of the thrift store Comfy Komodo, in Newton, New Jersey.
Despite Adobe Analytics reporting that American consumers spent $241.4 billion online during last year’s holidays, CapitalOne’s research shows that 45 percent still prefer in-store shopping. This preference is driven by convenience, easy product comparison and a more enjoyable experience. Local stores offer shorter lines, fewer crowds, meaningful options and a chance to reduce our carbon footprint. The American Independent Business Alliance states that for every $100 spent at an independent business, $50 or more remains in the local economy, boosting prosperity, jobs and donations to local organizations.
Finding Treasures With Friends
Discovering local treasures provides social nourishment and counteracts our screendependent lifestyles. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social connection benefits long-term physical and mental health. “Talking with the folks who grow your food or make your gifts is almost extinct in our world. Farmers markets have revived that,” says Darlene Wolnik, senior project manager for the Farmers Market Coalition, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fulfilling our senses with artisanal breads, seasonal produce freshly harvested from local soil and maple syrup tapped from nearby trees reconnects us with real life.
From hand-poured candles to artful ornaments, small businesses offer unique finds. Shopping can extend beyond purchases to include meeting friends for lunch or enjoying seasonal treats. The holidays are the perfect excuse to indulge in local fair-trade chocolates, regional wines, craft beers or small-batch gourmet coffees. “Nothing is better than meeting with family or friends and seeing where the day takes you, exploring local shops,” muses De Leeuw.
Wolnik agrees, suggesting, “You can make a morning of it and shop the entire town or Main Street before or after your farmers market visit.” She recommends checking if vendors offer holiday crafts. “A lot of farmers knit, weave and do woodworking. Also, many markets use a wooden token system to process card payments. If your market does
that, buy tokens for friends, wrapped with a ribbon and a market flyer.”
Keeping It Local Year-Round
After the gifts and festivities, adopting inspiring habits can kickstart a new year. Choosing to shop locally more often positively impacts the environment because small businesses typically source their products regionally, reducing transit emissions.
Knowing the names of local servers, shopkeepers and baristas fosters a vibrant network of community engagement, enriching our everyday lives with meaning and a sense of belonging. “My favorite thing about supporting local shops is really connecting with the owners or the workers—finding out their story, how they started and what brought them here,” adds De Leeuw.
Creating monthly or weekly local shopping rituals can enhance family life or jazz-up date nights. Buying healthier bread at the bakery or herbal soap from a neighborhood artisan are simple ways to sustain the backyard economy while enjoying a slower, more relaxed pace and remaining open to the wonders along the way.
Marlaina Donato is an author, artist and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Cultivating Joy
How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives
by Hannah Tytus
“Discovering more joy does not, I’m sorry to say, save us from the inevitability of hardship and heartbreak. In fact, we may cry more
easily, but we will laugh more easily, too. Perhaps we are just more alive,” reflected the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu in The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World, where he shared wisdom alongside the Dalai Lama.
Joy invites us to be more alive. It surfaces through awareness, connection and acceptance of the present moment, exactly as it is. As winter days grow shorter and the year draws to a close, this is a wonderful time to explore what joy truly is, the things that block it and how it can be reclaimed. Ultimately, joy is not a reward for a perfect life, but a way of being that reminds us to embody our full humanity. Though sometimes fleeting, joy can be profoundly sustaining.
A Physical Experience
“Joy is much bigger than happiness,” asserted Tutu. “While happiness is often seen as being dependent on external circumstances,
joy is not.” This mindset—rooted in both heart and spirit—aligns closely with the Dalai Lama’s vision that genuine fulfillment comes from recognizing the deep interconnectedness of all living beings. Joy is an embodied emotion that is distinct from happiness. Happiness is stable, evaluative and may reflect broader life satisfaction— a contentment with one’s career, finances, family, romantic relationships or personal fulfillment—while joy is experienced in the present moment. It is intense, yet fleeting.
In a study conducted in 2025 and published in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, researchers interviewed 14 adults about their experiences of joy. The findings explain joy as a complex emotion shaped by individual, relational and cultural contexts. According to the research, joy is intense, transcendent and deeply felt—often arising spontaneously in response to meaningful experiences or connections.
In contrast, happiness encompasses a broader spectrum, exhibiting greater stability, and is associated with life satisfaction and contentment. Participants described joy as a somatic experience, identifying sensations such as “a rush of warmth and lightness throughout the body,” “electricity,” “a bubbling up,” and “tingling sensations,” accompanied by “the urge to move, smile and embrace others.” These visceral reactions often accompanied moments of intense connection, awe and accomplishment.
If joy is felt through the body, movement itself becomes a doorway to experience it more fully. This cultivation of joy is the cornerstone of Jennifer Joy Jiménez’s life’s work. A pioneer in integrative movement and founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & Well-Being Division, she developed TranscenDANCE, a conscious dance modality for all ages and mobility levels designed to improve mental, emotional and physical health through inspiring music, body positivity and free-form movement.
Conscious dance is any form of movement that emphasizes mindfulness, inner exploration and emotional release rather than
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Exercises To Expand Our
Gratitude
by Hannah Tytus
Gratitude is an important part of joy because it helps us savor life and recognize that much of our good fortune comes from others, including those that have made it possible for us to be ourselves.
Saying Thanks at Mealtime: According to the Dalai Lama in The Book of Joy, even the act of eating a vegetable dish can become a communal experience. Hold gratitude for the seed in the earth, the sunlight and rain that nurtured it, the hands that tended and harvested the plant, the people that transported it to the local market or restaurant, and those that prepared the meal or taught us to cook.
performance or choreography. Although these transformative movement practices have existed for thousands of years, Jiménez laments that for many Americans, dance may be confined to weddings, occasional outings or fitness classes, leaving little room for the expressive and emotive daily practice that “allows our soul-self to move our human self.”
Jiménez asserts, “Just a few minutes of dancing releases the happy hormones, offering a DOSE [dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins] that shifts our mood better than any antidepressant.” Scientific evidence supports this assertion. A 2024 meta-analysis published in The BMJ analyzed 218 clinical trials, demonstrating that dance was more effective in alleviating depression symptoms than walking, yoga, strength training and even traditional antidepressants.
The Social Nexus
Joy thrives on connection. While it can arise in solitude, it naturally expands most effectively through relationships and shared humanity. When individuals feel seen, supported and part of something larger than themselves, their sense of well-being deepens.
The 2024 World Happiness Report identifies social support as one of the strongest predictors of life satisfaction. Similarly, the Harvard Study of Adult Development—one of the longest-running longitudinal studies of human health—has shown that healthy, fulfilling relationships are the single greatest predictors of both longevity and life satisfaction.
This growing body of research underscores that social connection shapes health across our lifespan. Individuals that maintain meaningful relationships exhibit lower risks of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, infections, cognitive decline and depression compared to those that are lonely. When people share laughter, empathy or a sense of belonging, they exhibit improvements to their
Writing Down the Blessings: This daily practice is suggested by Jennifer Joy Jiménez, founder of the Brave Thinking Institute’s Health & Well-Being Division. With eyes closed, recall three items from the day for which to be grateful— from a friend’s kindness to the bounty of a good meal or the pleasant aroma in the air. Record these items in a journal, aiming to add three new items each day.
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nervous system and immune function, as well as an expanded capacity to experience joy.
Isolation’s Impact
While connection nurtures joy, disconnection erodes it. In The Book of Joy, the Dalai Lama identified loneliness as one of the most significant obstacles to joy, emphasizing that it arises not from isolation itself, but from a mindset of separation. A person can live alone in the wilderness and still feel content, while another may feel lonely in a crowded room. Loneliness, he suggests, emerges when the heart closes—when anger, fear or stress obscure the ability to perceive warmth in others.
Many modern experiences reinforce this sense of separation. Chronic stress, fatigue, poverty and depression all constrict the emotional space needed for joy. Cultural ideals built around constant happiness add another layer of strain. Researchers describe how placing pressure on ourselves to be perpetually positive leads us to suppress authentic emotion, rather than cultivate genuine contentment. The Dalai Lama observed that persistent anxiety keeps the mind spinning in worry, unable to rest in presence.
Emotional avoidance further narrows the capacity for joy. According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, individuals that
intentionally process difficult experiences report a 40 percent increase in life satisfaction. Gratitude research suggests the reason behind this phenomenon: Recognizing joy requires openness and receptivity. When individuals soften their defenses and allow life’s full range of emotion, they create space for joy to return.
Cultivating Gratitude
Adopting an attitude of gratitude is one of the best ways to cultivate joy. Recognized by the Dalai Lama as one of the “8 Pillars of Joy”, gratitude has been shown to enhance the capacity to perceive joy in everyday life. Gratitude increases joy, and joy, in turn, increases gratitude in an upward spiral of positive disposition. A 2018 study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology revealed that when the participants practiced gratitude regularly, it became part of their natural disposition. Participants that exhibited greater gratitude also experienced heightened levels of joy.
Jiménez notes that cultivating gratitude—and therefore joy—is not just a matter of responding to positive circumstances. “There is a difference between gratitude for and gratitude in. It’s easy to be grateful for positive windfalls like winning the lottery or receiving a nice gift. But when something challenging happens, such as a loved one receiving a serious medical diagnosis, how can we be grateful in
As Tutu and the Dalai Lama teach, joy is not the absence of struggle but the presence of heart. It lives in the body, grows through connection and deepens through gratitude.
that moment for the gift that lies in the wisdom of that situation?” Viewing challenging events as lessons with the potential for wisdom and healing helps us cultivate a more resilient kind of gratitude.
As Tutu and the Dalai Lama teach, joy is not the absence of struggle but the presence of heart. It lives in the body, grows through connection and deepens through gratitude. To reclaim it, we must soften the grip of perfection, release the myth of constant happiness and allow space for both laughter and tears.
Dancing for Joy
by Hannah Tytus
Developed by Jennifer Joy Jiménez, TranscenDANCE is a conscious dancing modality that uses gentle movement to connect with the body, release stress and cultivate positive emotion. Here is an abridged practice for daily use.
Step 1: The Dance of Spirit (three minutes)
Begin by bringing awareness to the breath. Listen to the exhale, releasing air slowly and steadily. Root your feet, lift your heart and let your body flow gently, like a leaf in the wind or a cat stretching in the sun. This breathe-and-move practice reconnects you to the present moment and reminds you of your inner calm and strength.
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Jiménez reminds us that joy is something to be practiced—not achieved—through movement, mindfulness and a willingness to feel. Gratitude becomes the bridge that turns awareness into aliveness, inviting us to notice what was there all along. When people pause long enough to be present, they discover that joy does not need to be sought. It simply needs to be welcomed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Step 2: The Dance of Shift (three minutes)
Shake it out. Stress lives in the body as tension; release it like flicking water or shaking dust from a rug. Add sound and breath as you move. Each shake helps your nervous system reset, leaving you lighter, clearer and freer.
Step 3: The Dance of Joy (three minutes)
Put on a song that lifts your spirit. Let the body move however it wants— bounce, sway, smile. It’s not about performance; it’s about feeling alive. As gratitude rises from within, joy becomes the natural overflow.
The Magic of Gourmet Salts
From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink
by Maya Whitman
Specialty salts can transform everyday foods. To elevate the experience, add bold chili salt to a hearty winter stew, smoked salt to popcorn or ruby-colored wine salt to chocolate truffles. Flavored finishing salts surprise the tastebuds in ordinary dishes like oatmeal, desserts or hot cocoa. Used
mindfully, gourmet salt reduces the need for excessive sodium and invites us to savor the extraordinary.
“I think salt is amazing and brings out the best in food—all those hidden flavors,” says Craig Cormack, a gourmet salt chef in Cape Town, South Africa. His career as
a food artisan advanced in 2009 when he embraced specialty salts. “My personal collection is sitting at 232 naturally occurring salts from around the world,” adds Cormack, who favors unrefined regional varieties, but also enjoys bold options such as smoked Danish Viking salt for its ancient, bonfire-infused qualities.
Salts vary in texture, flavor and nuance based on their source and harvesting techniques, such as solar evaporation or hand-raking. Many contain trace minerals, adding depth to dishes, and when consumed in moderation, sea salt may benefit the body compared to refined salt.
Salt’s Good Side
Salt has a bad reputation for causing high blood pressure and other health conditions, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that more than 70 percent of dietary sodium comes from
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prepared and packaged foods, not from salt added at home. The FDA daily value for sodium is less than 2,300 milligrams per day, and using unrefined salts can be a healthier alternative to common table salt, which is demineralized and processed with anti-clumping agents. Celtic gray salt and other mineral-rich varieties contain naturally occurring, trace heavy metals, but also minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium, which can help prevent the body from absorbing harmful metals like lead.
“We all need salt in moderation to live. The best way to ingest salt is to season your own food. Processed food has too much salt, and you can’t control your intake. Naturally made, mineral-rich salt is the best choice,” affirms Nancy Bruns, a seventh-generation salt maker at J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works, in Malden, West Virginia. She and her family produce rare, small-batch finishing salts harvested from the ancient Iapetus Ocean beneath the Appalachian Mountains.
Himalayan pink salt, mined from salt beds formed from ancient seas approximately 600 million years ago, contains more than 80 minerals and has a rosy color due to the presence of iron oxide and magnesium. Black volcanic rock salt, also known as Himalayan black salt or kala namak, has a pungent, sulfuric quality that diminishes with heat during cooking and imparts an egg-like aroma and taste that can be useful in vegan recipes. The large, coarse grains of kosher salt traditionally used in Hebrew cuisine give food a robust, briny quality and satisfying texture.
Spanning the Salt Spectrum
Whether sourced from evaporated seawater (sea salt) or underground salt mines (rock salt), there is much to choose from. Sea salt comes in various colors, coarseness and complex flavors. Highly prized flake salt—fleur de sel from coastal France—is hand-harvested from evaporation ponds with clay bottoms and, with its delicate, paper-thin crystals, offers delicious nuances as a finishing salt. Celtic gray salt, sourced deeper within evaporation ponds, contains more moisture and minerals.
Salt can be infused with herbs, spices, fruits and smoke from various woods to create a multitude of flavor qualities and moods. Bruns highlights her ramp-infused salt, which is combined with wild onions gathered during the Appalachian springtime. Charred oak from old bourbon barrels makes their smoked salt a favorite for grills and even chocolate desserts. Cormack spotlights the fine indulgence of Tartuflanghe brand truffle salt from Italy for an unforgettable mushroom risotto.
Bruns is grateful for the timeless spirit of salt. “I come to work on the same land where my ancestors made salt for over 150 years. I feel their presence, as if they are watching over my shoulder. That legacy and sense of stewardship is present every time I sprinkle salt on my food.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Stefan
Botezatu’s
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2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 large yellow onion, sliced
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
¼ tsp heirloom salt, divided
4 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
5 grinds from black pepper mill
3 dashes of jalapeño hot sauce
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until lightly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Take the onions out of the pan and set them aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, along with the zucchini, yellow squash and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until cooked through and tender. Add the garlic, thyme leaves and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Stir and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
Remove the pan from the heat. Return the onions to the pan and mix well. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, remaining salt, pepper and hot sauce. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and sprinkle feta cheese on top.
Place the pan on the center rack of the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until just set in the center.
Take the pan out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Cut into quarters and serve.
Recipe courtesy of J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works.
Flavor-Infused Salt
1 tsp dried herbs, spices or citrus zest of choice ¼ cup kosher salt, coarse sea salt or coarse Himalayan pink salt
Basic Infusion Instructions
In a bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, spices or citrus zest for every ¼ cup of kosher salt, coarse sea salt or coarse Himalayan pink salt. Stir thoroughly and store the mixture in a sealed, dry, airtight jar. For optimal results, let the flavored salt sit in the closed jar for a few hours before use.
Suggested Combinations and Uses
Create a delicious finishing salt for grilled shrimp, vegan tacos or black bean soup by combining 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest, ½ of a dried hot chili pepper and ¼ cup kosher salt. Sprinkle to taste just before serving.
Enhance fresh blueberries, melon, warm oatmeal or freshly baked brownies with a unique flavor by crushing 1 teaspoon of organic lavender buds in a mortar and pestle until the flowers are bruised and fragrant, then combining them with ¼ cup coarse Himalayan pink salt. Sprinkle to taste immediately before serving.
Make a wonderful cooking salt for roasted vegetables by mixing 1 teaspoon dried rosemary with ¼ cup Celtic gray sea salt. Sprinkle to taste before baking in the oven.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
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Pomegranate Pickled Fish
This gourmet holiday dish is ideal for a dinner party.
YIELD: 8 SERVINGS
3½ lbs yellowtail fish, skinned
6½ oz vegetable oil
3½ lbs sliced onions
1 Tbsp garam masala
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
4 whole cloves
4 to 5 bay leaves
FOR HOMEMADE LIME MAYO
5 large egg yolks
1 Tbsp English mustard
Juice of two limes
Zest from one lime
1½ cups sunflower oil
1 tsp salt
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
¾ cup, combined, equal amounts of dried apricots and sultanas (golden raisins)
2 cup white or red wine (red wine gives fish a deeper color)
½ Tbsp coarse salt
5 Tbsp white wine vinegar
2 Tbsp brown sugar
Seeds of 1 large pomegranate
The color of springtime is in the flowers; the color of winter is in the imagination.
—Terri Guillemets
Stir in garam masala, fennel, coriander, peppercorns, cloves and bay leaves. Turn heat up to medium and fry for 30 seconds to temper the spice, and then add the apricots, sultanas, wine and salt. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
Remove pan from heat and stir in the vinegar and sugar until well incorporated into the sauce. Pour sauce over the fish. Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove dish from oven, let it cool completely and then refrigerate for at least a day.
Add all the lime mayo ingredients into a bowl, except for the sunflower oil. Slowly add the oil while whisking the ingredients vigorously. When all the oil is added, the mix should be velvety smooth and be able to hold its own shape. Store in the refrigerator.
Place fish in a baking dish, allowing space for sauce.
Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or a flat wide pot. Add onions, cover and sauté at low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become sweet.
Serve cold fish on a salad with homemade lime mayo. Garnish with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.
Recipe courtesy of Craig Cormack.
The Heart Work of Kin-Keeping
Transforming Family Responsibilities Into a Shared Experience
by Hannah Tytus
The holidays can be a celebration of joy and family time, but for many, they are also a marathon of invisible labor. Someone has to hold it all together, planning meals, wrapping gifts, coordinating visits and meeting everyone’s expectations. Health psychologist Kari Leibowitz, author of How to Winter, notes, “The holidays are when we get wrapped up in shoulds—I should do this, or I’ve always done it this way. But things feel joyful only when the person carrying the load feels joyful, too.” That person managing everything amid the chaos is the family kin-keeper.
In 1985, sociologist Carolyn Rosenthal coined the term “kin-keeping” to describe the often-invisible work of maintaining family bonds: remembering birthdays, organizing holidays, coordinating visits and keeping everyone connected. A kin-keeper serves as the connective tissue across generations.
Kin-keeping work is rarely assigned; it is quietly assumed across families. The burden falls disproportionately on women, often passing from mother to daughter. Rosenthal’s concept builds on a long history of women’s unpaid labor in the home.
Across cultures, someone—usually a woman—has been expected to weave the social fabric, whether through cooking, hosting or mediating family ties. These roles often arose out of necessity but hardened into expectations. This important work demands time, intention and skill. It intensifies during the holidays when meals must be coordinated, gifts tracked and gatherings orchestrated. Even when roles are unspoken, someone absorbs the relational labor, becoming the family magic-maker.
Kin-keeping is critical for family cohesion. 2023 research published in Sex Roles shows that having a dedicated kin-keeper strengthens intergenerational bonds, encourages rituals and sustains relationships over time. Yet this labor is often unseen, underappreciated and unevenly distributed. Mothers, stepmothers and other female relatives frequently inherit the role, even in blended or post-divorce families. Step-relatives often find themselves bridging fractured family ties, carrying emotional work they never chose—work that can lead to stress, burnout and resentment. Kin-keepers can feel trapped by societal expectations to do it right, even when it hurts.
Sharing Family Responsibilities
Reimagining kin work begins by naming it. Recognizing the role and seeing it clearly allows the labor to be set down or shared when it feels heavy or disempowering. To make healthy changes, burdened kin-keepers can ask themselves how they might act from a place of loving intention rather than obligation.
Making invisible labor visible is another key step. Families can talk openly about who does what and acknowledge that sustaining a family is more than cooking meals or paying bills. It is emotional and relational work. Sharing responsibilities can lighten the load; one person can plan the meal, another take on decorations and a third handle travel logistics. Intentionally involving men and children in tasks helps create a more equitable distribution of labor.
Creating New Traditions
Joy can be reclaimed by letting go of rituals that no longer serve the family, creating new traditions rooted in current realities and needs, and inviting others to co-create meaningful moments. Releasing the need for perfection will
also offer relief from stringent responsibilities and create space for simple pleasures and joy. “When people look back on holidays, they rarely remember a perfectly cooked chicken or flawless table setting,” says Leibowitz. “They remember the wreath falling and everyone laughing together. The small, imperfect moments are what last.”
Kin-keeping is powerful because it holds families together. Those that take on this role can be proud of the heart work they do because it is precious. Yet this labor should not come at the cost of one person’s wellbeing. This season, we can ask what we want to carry and what we can set down. Healing begins by recognizing what was inherited and consciously choosing what to pass on. The magic of the holidays comes alive when care is rooted in fulfillment and agency rather than obligation. Kin-keeping is an act of love—but love does not have to mean doing it all alone.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Choreograph from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Natural Pet
Boosting Canine Health
Holistic Immune-System Strategies
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Adog’s immune system is the first line of defense against infection and disease, relying on nutrition, rest and emotional balance for optimal protection. Prolonged stress and consistently poor nutrition can gradually weaken this vital network, but holistic care provides gentle, effective strategies to restore and safeguard immune function, contributing to lasting wellness and vitality.
A Solid Nutritional Foundation
Immune resilience begins in the gut, where most immune cells are located. A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science revealed that supplementing canine diets with chitooligosaccharides (COS), bioactive compounds derived from chitin in crustacean shells and fungi, enhanced immune responses and antioxidant enzyme activity by promoting a healthier gut microbiome. In addition to these functional supplements, nutrient-dense foods, particularly fresh
leafy greens and colorful vegetables such as carrots, beets and peppers, also nourish beneficial gut bacteria and provide antioxidants that combat inflammation. Each color of the vegetable rainbow contributes unique phytonutrients that protect cells and bolster a dog’s innate defenses.
While many vegetables are beneficial, pet parents should not give dogs onions, garlic, leeks, scallions and chives, as they are toxic to dogs. Likewise, dogs should not eat tomatoes, corn on the cob and vegetables that can cause blockages such as radishes and the pits from avocados and fruits. Certain fruits, such as cherries, grapes and raisins, are also toxic to dogs.
Healthy fats are equally indispensable because they form the structural basis of cell membranes, ensuring optimal cellular function and resistance to pathogens. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from sources like fish oil, boneless sardines or ground flaxseed in moderation nourish the skin, reduce inflammation and support immune regulation. Cholesterol plays a crucial role in maintaining cell integrity and hormone equilibrium. Good cholesterol sources for dogs include eggs, organ meats, fish and lean meats fed in moderation. These nutrients promote strong, adaptable cells and a balanced microbiome—the cornerstone of enduring health.
A comprehensive whole-food diet centered around these principles offers greater benefits than isolated supplements. The synergistic effects of nutrients found in fresh foods support the immune system in a natural, sustainable manner, helping dogs heal, adapt and thrive.
The Power of Mushrooms
Nature provides potent tools to further enhance immune balance. Medicinal mushrooms have long been recognized for their immunomodulating properties, helping to strengthen, balance and regulate a dog’s natural defense mechanisms. Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, lion’s mane, turkey tail and chaga are safe and beneficial when used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Unidentified and
PK-Photos from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
wild mushrooms, including Amanita and Galerina species, should not be given to dogs as they may be toxic.
Research on shiitake mushrooms indicates that they contain beneficial bioactive compounds, including beta glucans (β-glucans), eritadenine and other polysaccharides, which can augment immune activity, support liver function and improve antioxidant capacity in humans.
A 2024 study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that four weeks of shiitake mushroom powder supplementation in healthy dogs significantly increased antioxidant activity, while reducing cholesterol. These findings suggest that shiitake mushrooms may help enhance cellular defense and immune resilience in dogs. Because of their immune-stimulating properties, shiitakes should be given only under veterinary supervision to dogs with immune-mediated diseases or those undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatments.
Similarly, reishi mushrooms have been studied in animals for their immune-supportive and protective effects. Their polysaccharide and triterpenoid constituents have been demonstrated to stimulate pathogen-killing white blood cells such as macrophages and T-lymphocytes, leading to improved immune surveillance and resistance against abnormal cell growth. Rodent studies have shown that reishi extracts can significantly inhibit tumor development, reduce inflammation and enhance overall immune function without adverse effects.
A pivotal factor in these effects is the presence of β-glucans—complex polysaccharides that function as biological response modifiers, training the immune system to respond appropriately to challenges without overstimulation. “The beta glucans help to stabilize your immune system,” explains Rob Silver, a pioneering holistic and integrative veterinarian in Boulder, Colorado, recognized for his expertise in veterinary herbal medicine and medicinal mushrooms. He notes that these compounds can “re-educate” immune cells, enabling them to distinguish between genuine threats and harmless triggers such as pollen, food or dust. In this way, β-glucans promote a balanced, resilient immune response that supports both health and tolerance.
Establishing Balance for Lifelong Wellness
Holistic canine care goes beyond food and supplements, encompassing emotional well-being and preventive measures. Because chronic stress can weaken immunity, maintaining a calm, enriching environment is essential. Regular exercise, mental stimulation and comforting companionship promote equilibrium and confidence. Gentle detoxification practices such as supporting liver function with milk thistle or kidney health with dandelion root further assist the body’s natural cleansing processes.
Regular checkups are pivotal in preserving a dog’s health, enabling veterinarians to detect emerging issues early. Collaborating with a holistic practitioner provides a comprehensive approach that integrates natural therapies with conventional medicine.
Holistically strengthening a dog’s immune system entails nurturing the entire being—body, mind and spirit. With a foundation of whole-food nutrition, balanced fats, supportive herbs and mindful care, dogs can enjoy vibrant health and lasting vitality. This integrated approach not only fortifies the immune system, but also cultivates a life of balance, joy and resilience.
Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3
Acclaimed Artist Cherie Bender –Opening Night — Experience Cherie Bender’s oil paintings Magnolia ‘Lil Jewel and Mistral at Artavita World Wide Art Gallery, Red Dot Miami, during Art Basel. The exhibition runs through December 7 at the Mana Wynwood Exhibition Center. For complimentary tickets, please contact the artist directly at 561-789-1648.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17
Richard Thomas In Mark Twain Tonight! By Hal Holbrook — 7:30 pm, (and Dec. 18) Presented by Kravis Center for the Performing Arts at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, 561-832-7469. Kravis.org.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19
Nestor Torres: 20 Years of Dances, Prayers & Meditations — 8-10pm. Holiday Reflections & Celebration! ‘Tis the season to be joyful, to be grateful, and celebrate together the long awaited release of Nestor Torres’ Holiday CD: Rebirth. Presented by Arts Garage at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444. 561-4506357, ArtsGarage.org.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9
New Year Quantum Manifestation Workshop — 9:30am – 12:30pm, Palm Beach Gardens, $60. Presented by Alexandra Grace Scott, author "Your Fresh Start" Empowerment & Motivational Mentor. Tap into your power to create real change: health, love, relationships, abundance. Transformative, uplifting and powerful. Limited to seven women. Contact: Alexandra Scott, agscott1212@gmail.com, 516-319-9313, YourAgelessLiving.com
Ongoing Events
Today
Highlight Your Ongoing Event Here! — Our readers attend published health and wellness events. Order using our online system at NAPalmBeach.com. Due date for ordering is the 10th of the month for the following month’s publication.
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
Create Powerful Crystal Grids — 9-11am. $40 deposit for Crystal Grid materials. Manifest your intentions. Selection/arrangement of crystals guided by Rena Joy. Soothe Your Soul, 827 Donald Ross Rd, Juno Beach. Limited registrations 561-650-2226. facebook.com/sootheyoursouljunobeach.
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Wellness Services
Certified Holistic Foot Care Specialist & Holistic Health Care Coach – providing service in your Royal Palm Beach area home. Caring for nails, calluses, corns. Advice on shoe fit, balance. Promotes relaxation, circulation, wellness. Mary Parent, CFCS, HHC 860-724-6213.
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There
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide; email NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com for details.
Acupuncture
GARDENS WHOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER
Dr. Bill Rice, DC, LAc, DCBCN 4360 Northlake Blvd., 2nd Floor Palm Beach Gardens, 33410 561-439-6644
Healthy-Answers.com
Experience Feeling Great!
Dr. Rice – a wholistic physician serving patients since 1977 using Acupuncture, Kinesiology, Gentle Chiropractic care and Nutritional Counseling. We Listen • We Care • We Get Results.
HEALTH FROM INSIDE OUT
23257 SR 7, Ste 206, Boca Raton
561-414-1587
MyHealthFromInsideOut.com
Experience Natural Healing with Dr. Anne Silva, offering acupuncture and NAET to relieve allergies, pain, weight loss, stress and much more. Restore wellness! Book today!
Aesthetics
BIOHEALTH AESTHETICS & WELLNESS
Dr. Ilona Fotek, DMD, MS, NMD
Dr. Paul Fotek, DMD, MS 4600 Military Trl, Ste. 210, Jupiter 561-316-2598
BioHealthSpa.com
Effective and more natural aesthetic treatments to IV therapy — experience personalized solutions to enhance your beauty and health. See ad page 7.
Alternative Medicine
THE HEALING CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
16244 S. Military Trail, Suite 120 Delray Beach FL 33484
561-498-1414
DoctorEsther49@gmail.com DrElishaOMD.com
Dr. Esther Elisha, AP is a Hadassah Medical School graduate MD practicing alternative medicine.
Acupuncture • Homeopathy • Holistic Therapy • Tailored Wellness Programs • Pain Management • General Health Enhancement
We accept all major insurance companies. Call to see if yours covers acupuncture!
Art
CHERIE BENDER, FINE & COMMISSIONED ART STUDIO
561-789-1648
CherieBender.com
Bring joy to your office and home through positive and inspirational art. Please call to make your vision a reality and speak with artist Cherie.
Beauty & Health
ONENESS PERFUME OnenessPerfume.com
Scents of Unity: Perfumes That Onenessly Embrace Our Shared Humanity. Discover a fragrance that harmonizes with your values. Join the Movement.
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Scan the display ad’s QR code. See ad page 2.
The most precious thing I have to give is my time.
—Silvia Hartmann
Conscious Tree Trimming
WOODY’S CREW TREE AND LANDSCAPE 561-325-8917
WoodysTreeCrew@gmail.com
Experienced, Licensed and Insured. ISA Certified Arborist Techniques Used. Trees Big or Small We Do Them All!
See ad page 15.
Craniosacral Therapy
EILEEN YOCHEVED HANDE, BS, MA, LMT Back in Balance 7025 Beracasa Way, Ste 202C Boca Raton, FL 33433 561-715-6185
BodyMassageAndBeyond.com
Upledger Certified CranioSacral Therapy for All Ages and Alternative Pain Management/Advanced Manual Therapies.
I have developed innovative approaches to Pain Relief through the integration of these Advanced Healing Therapies for the treatment of: Trauma/Anxiety, Stress, Migraines, TMJ, Car Accident Injuries, Sciatica, Neck/ Back Pain, etc. Since 1993. MA14975, MM10999
Dating
REVOLUTION DATING
Kelly Leary, M.S. Miranda Capparelli 5090 PGA Blvd #208, Palm Beach Gardens 561-630-XOXO (9696) 772-932-HERE (4373)
RevolutionDating.com
Are you single? Call to meet the Award-Winning Matchmakers, established in 1991. Every client is prescreened in person at their well-established office. Trusted confidentiality is their practice, and love is their language. Reserve your spot in the club and connect today! #LoveMore2024 #TellYourFriends
Dental Health
INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR DENTAL EXCELLENCE
Yolanda Cintron, DMD
2021 E Commercial Blvd., Ste. 208 Fort Lauderdale FL 33308
954-938-4599
FortLauderdaleDentistry.com
All phases of dentistry for optimum health, holistic, bio-compatible dentistry.
• Sedation dentistry • Removing of toxic metals • Replacing them with biocompatible materials • Laser dentistry for painless surgeries & extractions • Zirconia/ceramic implants • Natural bone augmentation / Plasma Rich Growth Factor • Oral DNA Testing • Add gums to receding gums.
Functional Medicine
MERNA MATILSKY, M.D., FAARM, AND ABAARM
Boca Center for Healthy Living 2900 N. Military Trail, Suite 245 Boca Raton, FL 33431
561-994-2007
BocaMed.com
Facebook.com/bocaimaginewellness
Services Provided by Dr. Matilsky include Integrative Medicine, Age Management Medicine, BioIdentical Hormone Therapy, Healthy Lifestyle Management, and Weight Loss Programs.
Health & Wellness
OSTEOSTRONG CENTRAL BOCA RATON & JUNO BEACH
7050 W Palmetto Park Rd #48, Boca 561-210-3210
14159 US Hwy 1, Juno Beach 561-867-8362
OsteostrongSouthFL.com
Boost bone density, balance, and strength at any age with weekly coachguided osteogenic loading sessions.
Enhance wellness with red light therapy, compression, and the BioCharger!
Holistic Hair Salon
GLISTEN ORGANIC SALON
14545 S. Military Trail Phenix Salon Suites, Suite 102 Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-767-0371
GlistenOrganic@gmail.com GlistenSalon.com
“Where nature and beauty meet.” A hidden jewel in the heart of Central Delray. Come and relax in the serene, private environment while receiving the finest in organic and conventional services and products. Let our experience and professionalism guide you to Delray’s First and Best Organic Salon. Celebrating 13 years! See ad page 25
Holistic Massage Therapist
HEALING STONES MASSAGE BY ETHEL ZAPATA
786-547-9224, Palm Beach
EthelMassage.com
Improve health, balance, and stress. Experience expert therapeutic massage including Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial, Thai, crystal, and water-scalp. Available at spa or your location. MA94703.
Holistic Veterinarian
HEALING HEART
Nancy A. Keller, DVM, CVH, CVA, CVC 222 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33435 561-740-1313
561-740-0819, fax
Integration of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Medicine. Holistic Veterinary Care for our animal friends. See ads on page 11 and 21. By appointment only.
Community Resource Guide
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.
Holistic veterinary care combining conventional and complementary medicine. Fear-free, lowstress environment for your pet’s optimal wellness. Now accepting new patients—call today! See ad page 27.
Life Coach
LIFE COACH COUNSELING SO. FL.
Diana Cohen Connerty, MA 508-272-1707, call or text LifeCoachSouthFlorida.com
Experience compassionate, confidential virtual sessions that provide clarity and breakthrough moments. Overcome challenges, align with your goals, and create lasting personal transformation. Free consultation.
Experienced mobile massage therapist, Anne Baron, provides customized massages, reiki, sound healing, prenatal massage, and cupping for personalized deep relief and complete relaxation. MA71730
Spiritual Advisor
ASTRAL GUIDANCE
Claude 561-504-8432
GoReminders.com/ book/67703393fd195560
Intuitive Tarot and Rune readings for business, love, and life. Compassionate support with clarity and direction. Call, text, or book online!
See ad page 19.
Spiritual Life Coach
ORACLE OASIS
561-316-9535
Hello@OracleOasis.com OracleOasis.com
Intuitive service combining tarot, oracle cards, and pendulum, empowering you with clarity, perspective, and understanding to shape your future and trust your inner guidance.
