MORE THAN SKIN DEEP: JULIE HELM'S REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH TO BEAUTY AND HEALTH
PG 8
STACK YOUR HEALING, STACK YOUR HACKS™: INTRODUCING THERAVIBE
PG 28
DR. NEERAJ KOHLI: A PIONEER IN WOMEN'S PELVIC HEALTH
PG 18
OCEAN EAGLE ACTIVATION BREATH WORK: A PATHWAY TO HEALING FOR VETERANS
PG 34
Publisher: John Highland
Editor In Chief: Hannah H.
Graphic Designer: Laura Poyner
Contributing Authors: Robby Besner, Ocean Eagle, Evelyn
Flaharty, Riley George, Ashleigh Quint
Vice President of Development: Mark Carvalho
Business Director: Rob Fletcher
Fractional Marketing Officer: Craig Handley
Advisory Board: Dr. Ken Davis
Executive Assistant: Michelle Richardson
Our mission and purpose at TopDoctor Magazine is to foster connections within the health and wellness community and empower our readers to make well-informed healthcare and lifestyle decisions. We pride ourselves on being the ultimate resource for interviews with health and wellness leaders, trending medical news, and healthy living topics.
We understand that choosing a healthcare provider is a crucial decision. Our in-depth interviews with esteemed doctors and medical professionals aim to bridge the gap between them and their clients. By providing our readers with personal insights, philosophies, and areas of expertise, we facilitate a deeper understanding of the individuals responsible for your health and wellbeing. We also strive to highlight our outstanding practitioners, showcasing their dedication to their patients and contributions to the medical community.
The field of medicine is constantly evolving, with new practices, therapies, and technologies emerging at a rapid pace. At TopDoctor Magazine, we strive to keep you updated on the latest advancements in the medical world. Our comprehensive coverage of trending medical news equips
both doctors and patients with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about healthcare options.
Building strong connections within the medical community is essential for enhancing patient care and driving medical progress. Our magazine serves as a bridge, connecting medical companies with doctors and vice versa. By facilitating these connections, we aim to catalyze collaborations that can lead to innovative solutions and improved healthcare outcomes for everyone.
It is our firm belief that well-informed individuals make better decisions about their health. By providing you with insights into established and emerging medical trends and technologies, we empower you to take an active role in your healthcare choices. Whether you are a healthcare professional seeking to stay updated on the latest advancements or a patient eager to make informed decisions about your well-being, TopDoctor Magazine is here to support you.
In every issue, we strive to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity, accuracy, and relevance. Our dedicated team of writers, editors,
and medical experts work tirelessly to bring you well-researched and compelling content that is both educational and engaging. Moreover, our graphic design team is committed to delivering an aesthetically pleasing reading experience where captivating design seamlessly merges with informative content, ensuring each issue becomes an engaging journey of discovery.
As we embark on this mission to serve as your trusted source of medical information and insights, we encourage you to join us on this exciting journey. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you for being a part of the TopDoctor Magazine community. Together, let us embrace knowledge, forge connections, and make informed decisions to lead healthier lives.
With warmest regards, Hannah
H.
8 18 28 34 42 52 58
More Than Skin Deep: Julie Helm's Revolutionary Approach To Beauty And Health
Dr. Neeraj Kohli: A Pioneer In Women's Pelvic Health
Stack Your Healing, Stack Your Hacks ™:
Introducing Theravibe
Ocean Eagle Activation Breath Work: A Pathway To Healing For Veterans
The Methylation Map: How Genetic Testing Is Transforming Preventive Care
Generational Programming In Our Genetics
Rising Through Adversity: How Callenges Can Shape Our Greatest Victories
By Riley George
Julie Helm stands out as a beacon of transformative healing in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Founder of her eponymous functional medicine practice in 2021, Helm's journey into this holistic approach was deeply personal, born from her own frustrating experience within the confines of conventional primary care.
"I wasn't seeing the changes happen for my patients, and I knew there was a better way," Helm stated with conviction. This sentiment echoes the experiences of countless individuals seeking deeper, more sustainable solutions to their health concerns.
Her practice, now poised for expansion with a new clinic planned for the central West Coast, embodies a philosophy that delves beyond surface-level treatments, embracing a More Than Skin Deep: Inside Out approach that is particularly revolutionizing the treatment of skin conditions.
Helm's transition into functional medicine was not merely a career shift; it was a personal awakening. In the early 2000s, a seemingly healthy and active Helm, deeply engaged in road cycling, experienced a sudden and debilitating decline in her health.
"As I started getting into cycling, my health started to take a big pivot. Instead of being at the front of the pack, I started falling behind to the middle and end. My health declined so much so that within a short couple of months my hair started falling out, I had digestive issues, and had to withdraw from my normal daily exercise routines completely," Helm recounted.
This period of profound fatigue and unexplained symptoms, despite "normal" lab results
from conventional doctors, left her feeling lost and worried.
"I had no direction, I was worried I had cancer," she admitted, highlighting the fear and uncertainty that often accompany undiagnosed chronic conditions.
It was a chance encounter with a functional medicine practitioner at a conference that finally illuminated her path to recovery.
“My personal experience impacted how I viewed health, and why it encouraged me to open this practice up,” Helm explained, “I want my clients to receive a personalized approach and help walk them through lifestyle changes. I’m very passionate about being able to help others ultimately get their lives back.”
This profound personal transformation fuels her passion for offering others the comprehensive and individualized care that she herself desperately sought.
Helm's clinic is a testament to this holistic philosophy, addressing a broad spectrum of health concerns through the lens of functional medicine. While her expertise spans gut health, brain health, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, it is her innovative Integra-Skin program that is currently garnering significant attention. Recognizing the intricate connection between internal health and external manifestations, Helm emphasizes the uniqueness of this approach.
"I've been looking around at other practices and feel that our Integra-Skin program is amazingly unique across both functional medicine and integrative dermatology practices," she noted enthusiastically. "We are very excited about the possibilities for people to transform their skin using our More Than Skin Deep: Inside Out approach. This is a key focus for the immediate future."
This More Than Skin Deep philosophy is exemplified in the success story of a young woman struggling with severe acne.
"She came to our clinic because she wanted to transform her skin completely. One thing we did with her was our bold Inside-Out approach," Helm explained. "With our More Than Skin Deep programs, we're doing functional testing, looking at gut health, and observing how it’s affecting the skin as a whole."
By addressing underlying issues like Candida overgrowth and heavy metal accumulation through targeted supplementation and dietary advice, coupled with advanced in-clinic treatments like the Flex MD light therapy, this patient experienced a dramatic improvement.
"Now she came to me just the other day after six months, and said ‘I have this one little pimple right here’ instead of the whole side of her face being impacted," Helm shared with pride, highlighting the transformative potential of her integrated approach.
The Flex MD technology, a UK-developed medical-grade light therapy device, plays a crucial role in Helm's skin rejuvenation protocols.
"It uses different frequencies, like near and far red light, and blue light," she told us.
This multi-wavelength approach allows for targeted treatment of various skin concerns, including pigmentation issues, acne, congestion, and texture irregularities.
"It can help to balance the face's sebum, which is pretty fantastic," Helm added, emphasizing its ability to address the root causes of many skin problems.
Furthermore, the Flex MD's ability to penetrate different tissue depths stimulates collagen regrowth and mitochondrial regeneration, promoting long-term skin health without relying on invasive procedures or harsh chemicals.
"We're bringing these innovative technologies into the functional medicine space and seeing fantastic results," Helm affirmed.
Beyond skin health, Helm's practice offers a comprehensive suite of functional medicine modalities. She recounted inspiring stories of individuals regaining vitality through personalized nutrition plans, detoxification strategies, and targeted interventions. Kelly, for instance, suffered from debilitating brain fog and fatigue that forced her to withdraw from pursuing her educational aspirations. Through Helm's comprehensive approach, Kelly experienced a remarkable recovery.
“Despite continued mold exposure, Kelly reached a higher level of activity by the end of her second year of personalized protocol, enabling her to do all the things she wanted to do again," Helm shared, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "She's up by five in the morning, taking her kids to school, going back to school herself, functioning at a higher level, and finally getting her life back. Her story is super inspiring."
Helm also noted that typically, when people are removed from exposure, their healing journey is significantly shorter, with most reaching 50% improvement around 6 months into their protocol.
Another remarkable case involves Patty, a woman in her late fifties who was burdened by fifteen different medications. Tired of the traditional approach of simply adding more prescriptions, Patty sought Helm's expertise.
"After just twelve months, Patty was able to get off ten of her medications. She lost about 50 pounds, and she's back to being active," Helm recounted.
Patty's renewed energy allowed her to return to volunteering, a passion that had been sidelined by her declining health. She reported at that one-year mark that she was able to help with a huge fundraiser and get back to doing that more often.
Helm emphasized that the cornerstone of her practice is individualization.
"I would say the most important aspect is that this is individualized," she explained, referencing her Integra acronym, which stands for "Individualized, nutrition-based, test-result driven, educational empowerment, goal-oriented, root-cause analysis, all of which is super important." This personalized approach, coupled with a focus on nutrition and detoxification as foundational elements, sets the stage for optimizing each patient's health.
"Almost everyone needs a little bit of a reboot, and some of us need a bigger reboot than others," she noted. The ultimate goal is to move individuals beyond recovery and into a state of higher-level performance and well-being.
Looking to the future, Helm envisions expanding her impact through the development of Integra Health and Wellness, Integra Institute, and Integra Skin as distinct yet interconnected entities.
"We’re really wanting to impact culture by having a place where people can learn more about integrative wellness and be able to be proactive on a bigger scale," she explained.
Her initial focus will be on the 30 to 65-year-old age group, with plans to expand to families and older individuals. A key area of focus for this broader impact is the understanding and treatment of biotoxins and related illnesses. The three main areas she hopes to focus on are gut health, brain health, and biotoxins.
"I'm really excited about this endeavor because people will be able to have access to information that helps them regain their health within those three areas. Often, most of the clients’ symptoms fall within one of those three categories,” she shared.
Helm shared the compelling story of Katie, a young athlete whose life was derailed by a severe fatigue illness triggered by mold exposure. Initially skeptical, Katie's family followed Helm's guidance, which led to the discovery and remediation of significant mold issues in their home. Coupled with Helm's treatment protocol, Katie made a remarkable recovery.
"Now Katie is away at college, and is back to being one of the MVPs on her volleyball team. She’s been able to have a great time living the college life," Helm recounted with evident joy. This success story underscores Helm's expertise in identifying and addressing complex environmental factors that are often the cause of chronic health conditions.
Julie Helm's dedication to uncovering the root causes of illness and her innovative More Than Skin Deep approach are transforming the lives of her patients. Through personalized care, advanced technologies, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the body's systems, she is not only restoring health but also empowering individuals to reclaim their vitality and live fuller, more vibrant lives. Her vision for the future, marked by expansion and a commitment to educating and impacting a wider audience, positions her as a true pioneer in the evolving landscape of functional medicine.
Discover more about Julie’s approach to wellness, or how you can book a free discovery call by visiting her website: integrahealthwellness.com.
BY RILEY GEORGE
Dr. Neeraj Kohli, a name synonymous with innovation and patient-centered care, stands at the forefront of women's pelvic health. In a recent interview with TopDoctor Magazine, Dr. Kohli shared his journey, philosophy, and groundbreaking approaches to treating complex conditions. From his early academic pursuits at Harvard to his current private practice, Dr. Kohli's dedication to improving women's lives is palpable.
Dr. Kohli's path to becoming a leading urogynecologist was paved with academic rigor and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
His journey into the field of urogynecology started with his acceptance into a prestigious six-year medical program at Boston University and subsequent Ob-Gyn residency at Harvard. His dedication to learning didn't stop there. Dr. Kohli later earned an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management
Executive Program at Northwestern University, a testament to his commitment to understanding the complexities of healthcare management. His academic journey led him to a pivotal role as the Founder and Division Chief of Urogynecology at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Here, he started the first Fellowship in Urogynecology at a major Harvard teaching hospital, training the thought leaders of tomorrow.
He recalled how he had the chance to start that division, emphasizing the opportunity to build a program from the ground up. However, his desire to offer patients the most cutting-edge technologies led him to make a bold move.
"I wanted to offer my patients some of the most advanced cutting-edge treatments in the world," he explained, ultimately leading him to establish his private practice dedicated to providing cutting-edge care for complex pelvic floor conditions.
Dr. Kohli's approach to patient care is rooted in a philosophy that challenges the traditional medical model of symptomatic treatment.
He believes in addressing the root cause of a patient's symptoms, rather than simply treating the surface-level issues.
"If a woman has a recurring bladder infection, we want to treat it, but the priority should be finding out why she keeps having those bladder infections and prevent rather than treat,” he further explained.
He also identifies underserved patient populations, particularly those with pelvic pain and postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction.
"These are patients who slip through the cracks because the current system just isn't well designed," he explained. He and his team have developed specialized programs, such as ‘Beyond Baby,’ to address the unique needs of these women.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) has designated the “fourth trimester” as a time where a woman can go through significant postpartum changes with increased risk of pelvic floor conditions related to childbirth, including overactive bladder, urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic prolapse, pelvic pain, and pain with intercourse. Many women are told it is a normal part of the childbirth process, and it should improve with time. Few are offered an appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and it can take months to see a urogynecologist when prompt treatment is critical. ‘Beyond Baby,’ the first of its kind program in the US, offers patients quick diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments during this critical postpartum period.
"You don't want something as special as childbirth to be something that's complicated by debilitating and embarrassing conditions, which can often be treated. You want it to be a wonderful thing," Dr. Kohli passionately stated.
Dr. Kohli's commitment to innovation is evident in his exploration of advanced therapies. He emphasized the importance of staying abreast of the latest research and technologies throughout the world.
"I love being an educator, but I love being a student even more because I'm continuously learning," he said.
He travels extensively, attending conferences and collaborating with colleagues worldwide to bring the most effective treatments to his patients. He highlighted the use of growth factors and energy-based therapies as promising alternatives to traditional medical and surgical interventions.
"The newest concepts are using growth factors and energy-based therapies," he explained, citing examples of successful treatments for lichen sclerosis and pelvic pain.
He also discussed the potential of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for treating recurrent UTIs and interstitial cystitis.
"We offered PRP therapy to one of our patients who has seen massive success with this specific therapy after decades of suffering. It essentially took care of the problem, and now she only has to come in every 6 months to a year for the therapy," he shared.
Dr. Kohli's influence extends far beyond his Boston practice. He is a sought-after speaker and educator, sharing his expertise with physicians worldwide and forging strong connections with colleagues in India, where he speaks regularly.
"They invited me to give some educational talks, which were very well received. Not only am I able to utilize my knowledge through educating and spreading new ideas and technologies, but I’m also learning so much from the other physicians and medical professionals I’m coming in contact with," he explained.
Dr. Neeraj Kohli's story transcends the typical narrative of a successful physician. It is a testament to the power of intellectual curiosity, a relentless pursuit of innovation, and an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. His journey, marked by academic excellence at prestigious institutions like Harvard and Northwestern, is not merely a chronicle of professional achievements but a roadmap for transforming the landscape of women's pelvic health.
Dr. Kohli's decision to depart from the traditional academic path to establish his private practice was a pivotal moment, signaling a desire to break free from the constraints of conventional medicine. It was a calculated risk, driven by a profound belief in the potential of emerging technologies and a deep-seated empathy for patients whose needs were not being adequately met. This move allowed him to become a conduit for cutting-edge therapies, bridging the gap between global research and local patient care. He transformed his practice into a hub for innovation, where the latest advancements in regenerative medicine and energy-based therapies are seamlessly integrated into traditional patient treatment plans.
His philosophy of "root cause, not symptomatic improvement" is more than just a catchy phrase; it's a paradigm shift. It challenges the prevailing medical model, which often prioritizes quick fixes over long-term solutions. By focusing on the underlying causes of pelvic pain, bladder dysfunction, and postpartum complications, Dr. Kohli offers his patients a chance at genuine and lasting recovery. He empowers them to reclaim their lives, transforming experiences of chronic suffering into narratives of resilience and hope.
The impact of Dr. Kohli's work extends beyond the walls of his clinic. He is a tireless advocate for underserved patient populations, particularly women experiencing postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain. His dedication to global collaboration underscores his vision of a world where medical knowledge is shared freely and readily. His extensive travels and international collaborations have enriched his practice and facilitated the dissemination of innovative techniques to physicians across the globe. He exemplifies the power of cross-cultural exchange in advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kohli's work serves as a beacon of hope for women facing complex pelvic health challenges. His commitment to ongoing research and development ensures that his practice will remain at the forefront of medical innovation. He is not just a doctor; he is a catalyst for change, inspiring a new generation of physicians to embrace a more holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare. His legacy will be measured not only by the lives he has transformed but also by the lasting impact he has had on the field of urogynecology. He has shown that by challenging conventional wisdom, embracing innovation, and prioritizing patient needs, it is possible to redefine the boundaries of medical care and create a future where all women have access to the highest quality, most effective treatments available.
Dr. Kohli's message to patients is one of hope and empowerment.
"There's always help. Keep looking for a doctor willing to listen, look for the root cause, and think outside the box with respect to diagnosis and treatment. Most importantly, never give up," he encouraged.
Learn more about Dr. Neeraj Kohli and his practice, Boston Urogyn, by visiting his website at bostonurogyn.com.
By Robby Besner
In today’s fast-moving world of evolving wellness trends, protocols, and products, healing has never been more available, but somehow, also never more overwhelming and, for some, stifling. For those of us on a journey toward true health, the options are endless, yet the outcomes can be confusing.
Therasage’s message, and the inspiration behind everything we create, starts with a simple idea: What would healing look like if it were intuitive, accessible, and rooted in nature? That question led us to build our latest innovation: TheraVibe, designed to support the body’s most integrative, powerful energetic systems, which in turn influence every single function within us.
What if healing wasn’t another pill or complicated protocol, but something you could wear? Something light, intuitive, and infused with nature’s own wisdom, delivering the same frequencies found in plants, water, minerals, and even the Earth’s magnetic field?
TheraVibe is a complete range of non-transdermal, frequency-infused patches designed to gently support the body’s energetic and biological systems. Using a proprietary, patented process, we capture and embed each patch with vibrational signatures drawn from earth energies, plant and flower essences, and natural harmonics.
These patches don’t deliver synthetic actives or chemicals. Instead, they work with the body’s natural energetic biofield, its subtle energy blueprint that governs balance, resilience, and repair. The result is a gentle, individualized level of support that resonates with your body’s own signature and rhythms.
Built on clinically validated concepts and patented technology, TheraVibe bridges science and nature to bring you healing frequencies in their purest, most wearable form.
Every cell, system, and organ in our body communicates via frequency. Our biology is electric by nature. Frequency-based wellness works by influencing those vibrational patterns, supporting balance without adding synthetic compounds.
Multiple studies have shown that low-frequency specific electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and bioresonance signals can modulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, and encourage healing responses. Unlike pharmaceuticals or transdermal patches, TheraVibe delivers information, not ingredients, activating the body’s own intelligence through vibrational cues. Most importantly, you cannot get too much. Your body knows exactly what it needs and how much.
Nature communicates through frequency. Life is built on waves and rhythms from the Schumann Resonance of the Earth’s magnetic field (~7.83 Hz) to the subtle vibrations found in spring water and plant medicine.
TheraVibe honors these principles by infusing our patches with the kinds of natural frequencies the body recognizes and receives with ease. It’s not magic; it’s bioenergetics grounded in nature and delivered through modern wearable wellness.
Each patch in the TheraVibe line is infused with frequencies drawn from nature, selected to harmonize with the body’s integrative energy system and support specific areas of wellbeing.
• TheraVibe Ultimate Relief™: Supports natural pain relief and recovery with frequencies that ease tension, soothe inflammation, and regulate the nervous system to a calm state.
• TheraVibe Ultimate Recovery™: Supports circulation and tissue and cellular regeneration post-exercise through inflammation-calming frequencies.
• TheraVibe Ultimate Immunity™: Vibrational support for immune resilience, using immunemodulating frequency patterns and cellular stabilization.
• TheraVibe Ultimate Mito™: Enhances energy production and mitochondrial performance via frequencies aligned with ATP and nitric oxide pathways.
• TheraVibe Ultimate Performance™: Encourages mental clarity, brainwave balance, and physical flexibility.
These patches are curated for people of all ages and stages. You can wear one patch or Stack Your Hacks™ by combining multiple to address different needs simultaneously.
Patches can be placed intuitively, wherever support is needed most. Many users also apply them using Traditional Chinese Medicine meridian points to further enhance effectiveness. Each system comes with general placement instructions for daily use.
TheraVibe is the next step in our 20+ year commitment to wellness innovation. At Therasage, we’ve pioneered infrared therapy, ozone-enhanced detox, EMF-safe technologies, and harnessed nature's elements and earth materials, designed to help people live healthier, more empowered lives.
TheraVibe takes that mission one step further. These patches are portable, wearable, and profoundly personal. They are tools for transformation that meet people where they are, on planes, in classrooms, between meetings, at home.
Backed by years of research and a patented imprinting process, TheraVibe delivers measurable, bioenergetic support in the most accessible format we’ve ever created.
We created TheraVibe not just as a product, but as a movement away from over-complication, a return to what the planet already knows, something we all have.
Because healing doesn’t have to be hardsometimes, it’s as simple as a signal.
Feel the Vibe. Stack Your Hacks™. and Support your Wellness Journey.
By Ocean Eagle
In recent years, Ocean Eagle has emerged as a beacon of hope for veterans seeking solace and healing from the invisible wounds of war. His innovative approach to breath work harnesses the power of deep, intentional breathing to foster emotional and physical well-being. This practice serves as a bridge between the chaos of past experiences and the tranquility of the present moment.
1.
Veterans often face immense stress and anxiety due to their experiences. Ocean Eagle's breath work techniques promote relaxation, helping individuals to manage stress and lower cortisol levels, leading to a greater sense of calm.
2.
Many veterans carry the weight of unprocessed emotions. Breath work facilitates a safe space for emotional release, allowing participants to confront and transform their feelings, paving the way for healing.
3.
Through consistent practice, veterans build resilience and coping mechanisms. The ability to regulate one's breath can translate to better emotional regulation in daily life, empowering individuals to face challenges with newfound strength.
4.
Ocean Eagle's workshops foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among participants. Veterans often find solace in shared experiences, creating bonds that enhance their overall well-being and reduce feelings of isolation.
Breath work encourages mindfulness, guiding veterans to focus on the present moment. This practice can alleviate the burdens of past traumas, allowing individuals to cultivate a more positive outlook on life.
Deep breathing has physiological effects that include improved lung capacity, increased oxygen flow, and enhanced overall health. As veterans engage in breath work, they may experience increased energy levels and improved physical well-being.
Ocean Eagle Activation Breath Work is not merely a practice; it is a journey toward empowerment and healing. By guiding veterans through this transformative experience, Ocean Eagle provides them with the tools they need to reclaim their lives, fostering a sense of purpose and connection to themselves and others.
The work being done by Ocean Eagle is a testament to the power of breath and the resilience of the human spirit. By embracing this practice, veterans can find solace, healing, and a renewed sense of hope, paving the way for a brighter future. Let us honor their journey and support the invaluable work being done in the realm of healing and transformation.
To learn more about events and retreats, or to schedule a call with Ocean Eagle, visit https://linktr.ee/oceaneagle1.
Hey there,
We’re Strive Compounding Pharmacy.
And we’re striving for the personal side of healthcare. You know, Personal Pharma over Big Pharma. People over profits. Well care over sick care. Baseline shifting pharmaceuticals over symptom-covering ones.
We help thousands of healthcare providers just like you write tailored prescriptions so your patients can become the healthiest version of themselves.
Whether you have experience prescribing compounds or not, we make it easy to get started, get confident, and get support.
By joining our network of providers, you’re making medicine more personal—exactly how it should be.
It’s time to Strive Forward, together.
Modern medicine is evolving. Treating symptoms without understanding the body’s internal systems and external care environment means we only see half the picture, which starts at the molecular level.
Functional medicine has long pointed to the body’s interconnectedness. Now, genetic and epigenetic science confirms it. At the heart of this is methylation: a critical process that governs how our genes function and how well our bodies perform.
Methylation is a biochemical process that occurs billions of times per second. It helps turn genes on or off, supports detoxification, produces neurotransmitters, regulates hormones, manages inflammation, and drives energy production. Think of it as your body’s genetic “switchboard.”
When methylation works well, we feel clear, balanced, and resilient. But when methylation is impaired? Fatigue, anxiety,
By: Ashleigh Quint, MIM, PICP-SCC
brain fog, inflammation, and “normal” labs with abnormal symptoms often follow.
Genetic testing isn’t about curiosity—it’s about prevention. For example, a teenager with mood swings may have a COMT gene that slows dopamine clearance. A fatigued adult may have an MTHFR mutation that impairs detox and energy metabolism.
Understanding these patterns allows for smarter, earlier support, long before a diagnosis arises with your health or your children’s health.
Methylation and genetic SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) analysis is typically performed by:
• Functional medicine doctors
• Integrative MDs/DOs
• Naturopathic doctors (NDs)
• Precision medicine specialists
• Health practitioners trained in epigenetics
These professionals interpret genes like MTHFR, COMT, CBS, and MAO-A to tailor health interventions and modalities that support an individual’s biology.
Testing is often done via a saliva or cheek swab and analyzed through a specialized genetic report. Practitioners then combine this data with lifestyle information and lab results to design personalized plans, ranging from methylated B vitamins to detox protocols, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.
Yes! Most tests are home-based and accessible in all 50 states. Telemedicine has also expanded access to top-tier experts, regardless of location.
Mothers are natural caregivers. Yet they often lack the tools that can truly change the trajectory of their family’s health. Methylation testing is one of those tools.
When a child develops anxiety, gut issues, or behavioral changes, parents are often told to “wait and see.” But methylation analysis can reveal biochemical
causes early on:
• MTHFR variants that affect detox or folate absorption
• COMT variants that heighten emotional reactivity
• CBS mutations that contribute to sulfur sensitivity
Testing offers clarity—helping parents respond instead of react.
2. Support for Mothers Themselves
If you’re a mom juggling anxiety, hormonal shifts, or chronic fatigue, methylation testing may reveal that your body is struggling to detox, regulate neurotransmitters, or absorb nutrients. Personalized protocols can restore energy, mood, and resilience.
3. Customized Family Health Plans
You pass more than genes to your children—you also pass nutrient patterns and stress responses. Knowing your genetic makeup can help you:
• Choose the right prenatal/pediatric supplements
• Tailor nutrition for your household
• Prevent issues instead of managing them later
4. Peace of Mind
When a child struggles and no one can explain why, the emotional toll is immense. Genetic and methylation data provide direction, even if they don’t provide a diagnosis.
In functional medicine, testing the mother is often the best starting point, even if symptoms appear in the child.
1. The Womb Is the First Epigenetic Environment
A child’s biology is shaped in utero by the mother’s:
• Nutrient status (especially folate, B12, choline)
• Hormonal and methylation balance
• Stress and toxin exposure
These factors influence fetal gene expression through a process called fetal programming, which affects long-term health (Barker & Hales, 2001; Gluckman, 2010; Waterland & Michels, 2007).¹
2. The Methylation Cycle Begins with Mom
Methylation drives early development, including neural tube closure, brain formation, and immune programming. If maternal methylation is impaired
through SNPs like MTHFR or COMT, it can affect the child before birth (Godfrey, 2011; Tobi, 2009).²
Many pediatric functional practitioners begin with maternal DNA because:
• It’s easier to access
• It reveals inherited SNPs
• It guides family-wide interventions
• In infants, it may even eliminate the need to test the child directly
From womb to weaning, a child’s biology is closely tied to maternal health. Fetal microchimerism—where fetal cells persist in the mother’s body for decades—reinforces this bond (Bianchi, 1996; Boddy, 2015).³
Even if risk genes come from the father, it’s often the mother’s biochemistry that determines their expression. Methylation strength buffers genetic vulnerability by supplying:
• Methyl donors (folate, B12)
• Antioxidants (glutathione)
• Neuroprotective and immune compounds
When supported, the maternal system can prevent or delay the expression of inherited dysfunction (Heijmans, 2008; McGowan, 2009).⁴
Mothers are not just caregivers—they’re the architects of the next generation’s health. And methylation testing offers them a roadmap to address dysfunction before it begins.
Functional testing doesn’t just answer “what’s wrong”—it empowers families with knowledge and strategy to heal, grow, and thrive.
Sidebar: Methylation Testing at a Glance
Who Offers It: Functional MDs, NDs, integrative doctors, epigenetic-trained practitioners
How It’s Done: At-home saliva or cheek swab (sometimes blood)
Availability: All 50 states via telemedicine
Key Genes: MTHFR, COMT, CBS, MAO-A, among others
Our mission is to create cleaner, heal thier environments for patients, families, and businesses.
Licensed & Insured offering exper t consultations, assessments, testing, repor t interpretation, and solutions including sanitization and remediations.
With 25+ years of experience, we proudly ser ve New Jersey, New York, and surrounding states plus nationwide ser vices available
Our commitment to constant education, training, and cer tif ications f rom leading industr y exper ts makes us the top IAQ professionals
BY OCEAN EAGLE
Generational hard wiring and trapped energy passed down from both sides of your family can shape belief systems and cause disease before you’ve even drawn a breath. Unwinding and unbinding yourself from genetic programming and belief systems can take a lifetime, and unhealed residue not dealt with can be passed down in your genetic lineage.
Years ago, I was in a yearlong men’s trauma and addiction recovery group, and each person was asked to do what they called a Trauma Egg. It was a large white artboard, and we were to draw the shape of an egg on it. Within the egg, we were to draw small picture windows, and inside each picture window, we drew something that would remind us of traumatic events in our lives. When we each presented our eggs, the other guys in the group had between 12 and 20 traumas, respectively. When my turn came, you could have heard a pin drop as they sucked all the air out of the room. My egg had 123 picture windows with stick figure drawings of the traumas I could remember.
That was just the traumas from this incarnation and for me only. Imagine how much heavy energy and wounding must be dealt with to heal the generational hardwiring stored in our DNA. My father had four brothers and sisters, and my mother had the same. Dysfunctional behavior, mental issues, and addiction ran deep on both sides. My mother and father were products of their own hardwiring and damage created during their upbringings. My father died a physically, mentally, financially, and spiritually broken man 16 years ago. I remember him telling me that he felt like he had nothing
to offer anyone after losing his company due to his poor decisions and addictions. He was so sad and had a massive pity party for himself as he wallowed in the depths of sadness, remorse, and self-loathing.
I look back at that conversation with love and compassion for him. I no longer judge his life as his path was designed for him. I needed him to be who he was in my life for me to be who I am today. Gratitude is such a blessing to possess as we work on our genetic healing. As I gave the instructions to remove the electrode keeping him alive to the doctors, I couldn’t feel anything but sadness for the life he suffered through and the pain his unhealed generational wounding caused others.
My father had what I call “Black Body Masses” stored in his body. When heated up through fear, anxiety, stress, and emotional pain, these BBMs burst, creating toxic “Black Body Radiation”. These masses are stored throughout the body in what I call “The Rectifier Circuit.” A circuitry of batteries connected throughout your 24 organs. This is the connection between your emotions and actual physical “Dis-Ease.” Depending on the trigger and the location of the stored BBM, the body reacts, releasing BBR, and disease is created. Your emotions have the ability to kill you if you do not learn how to alchemize them into positive life force energy or “Inner-Chi”.
After years of therapy and searching for healing modalities, Breathwork was the trigger that finally broke me open. I was committed to healing naturally, as I have been sober for over 25 ½ years and will not put any mind-altering substances in my body. I’m not an advocate of the new “Psychedelic Movement”
because I feel it is a form of bypassing the real work required to truly be set free from the demons buried on a genetic level. I have previously written an article in TopDoctor Magazine titled “Breathwork is Medicine” in November of 2023, where I dive into the scientific reasons the breath can heal you. To begin our life, we have to take a breath, and it is the one constant we have to do every second of our life, or life ends.
Intense and proper breathing builds our own internal pharmacy. We are our own chemical plant creating dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and other neurotransmitters that reconnect the pathways between our brain, nervous, parasympathetic, and immune systems. Breathing properly balances the O2 and CO2 levels, creating homeostasis where the body can heal. Our body knows where we need medicine, which is delivered by the molecule Nitric Oxide, which we build naturally through intense breathing. Nitric Oxide is a vasodilator that expands our arteries and blood vessels so the medicine we naturally create can be delivered.
I’ve witnessed many with high blood pressure throw their medication away after experiencing how their own breath regulates blood flow naturally. Men I have worked with have had their erectile dysfunction improved and cured through breathing. Many with cancer report cancer cells dying after working with me. Unfortunately, I have to be careful disclosing details when discussing this topic, as it’s Big Pharma’s baby. But I’m seeing incredible results through intense Activation Breathwork journeys in 4-5 day condensed periods.
Whether it’s mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual maladies, I believe we are born self-healers with the capacity to tap into natural, non-psychedelic remedies to heal and come back into balance with both Earth and the Cosmos. Most people go their entire lives without breathing properly as they live in fight or flight mode, so breathing constriction becomes an addiction. Humans are so caught up in attaining what the “system” programs them to seek for happiness that they don’t slow down, breathe, and become present in the moment.
Everything exists in the present moment, so why would you want to be anywhere else? We are not guaranteed another breath, so breathe in gratitude and exhale everything that does not serve your highest and best good. Our ability to heal our lineage is a great responsibility from which we should not shy away.
You have no greater contribution you can give to Earth than to heal thyself first!
BY EVELYN FLAHARTY
Life is unpredictable. One moment you’re walking a familiar, comfortable path, the next it feels like the ground has crumbled beneath your feet. Adversity, in all its forms, finds each of us eventually. But here’s the truth: while painful, adversity is not the end of our story. In many cases, it becomes the beginning of a stronger, braver, more extraordinary life than we ever imagined possible.
If you’re standing in front of what feels like an impossible mountain right now, or if you’re still carrying the weight of wounds from past battles, know this: you are not alone in your struggle. Many have walked through darkness and found their way back to the light, including me. I speak not just from theory, but from personal experience.
Life has tested me more times than I ever expected, and adversity has shown up in my life more often than I would have liked. But through every challenge, I’ve discovered something vital: the power to rise lives within each of us. Even when it feels buried under pain, fear, or exhaustion, it’s there waiting to be awakened. You may not feel strong now, but strength isn’t about feeling invincible. It’s about choosing to keep going, one step at a time.
Adversity is anything that challenges our usual way of life. It can be external, like a diagnosis, a job loss, or the sudden death of a loved one, or internal, like anxiety, depression, setbacks that seem too heavy to bear, or even the quiet battles we fight within ourselves.
Adversity doesn’t discriminate. It visits the young and the old, the wealthy and the poor, the optimistic and the cynical. It’s part of the human condition. Yet despite its universality, it can feel incredibly isolating when we’re in the thick of it. It’s important to realize that facing adversity is not a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a testament to being alive. And every great story ever told includes a battle, a storm, a valley to cross.
Life has a way of testing us. Sometimes, it feels like the storms roll in without warning, turning our plans upside down and pushing us to our limits. Yet, while adversity is never easy, it often becomes the soil from which our greatest growth springs.
If you’re facing tough times right now, take heart. This moment doesn’t define your worth; it shapes your strength. Let’s talk about why adversity visits us, how we can overcome it, and why your story of resilience might inspire more people than you realize.
Adversity is part of the human experience. No one is immune to struggle, no matter how successful or lucky they seem. It can strike suddenly or creep in slowly over time, but its presence often feels overwhelming. Yet adversity isn’t just random cruelty; it often serves a deeper purpose. Challenges force us to look inward, examine who we are, and decide who we want to become. They reveal strengths we didn’t know we had. They teach us lessons we might never have learned in easier circumstances.
We are shaped not just by the successes and joys in our lives, but often more profoundly by the adversities we’ve endured. The challenges we face, whether emotional, physical, or circumstantial, demand responses from us that ultimately shape our identity. Every hardship forces us to make choices: to give up or keep going, to grow bitter or become stronger, to isolate ourselves or reach out for support. We develop qualities like resilience, empathy, courage, and perspective in the process. These aren’t traits we’re born with; they are forged in the fire of struggle.
Adversity acts as a mirror, revealing both our vulnerabilities and our hidden strengths. It pushes us to confront who we truly are beneath the surface and allows us to redefine ourselves through how we respond. Whether we realize it or not, the obstacles we’ve faced leave a lasting imprint, influencing how we think, relate to others, and approach life. In this way, we are not just the product of our experiences, we are the product of how we’ve grown through them. So, when we say, “We are who we are today because of the adversities we have faced,” we recognize the powerful role that struggle plays in shaping our character, values, and ultimately, our story.
While every person’s journey is unique, there are some powerful strategies that can help anyone weather the storm. For me, leaning on the people who truly cared, those late-night talks or quiet moments of understanding kept me grounded. I also found strength in simple routines, like morning walks or writing down one thing I was
grateful for daily. Most of all, reminding myself that even small steps forward still meant progress. Here are some strategies you can follow to help you overcome adversity.
Adversity is inevitable, and accepting its presence in our lives is the first step toward resilience. Rather than resisting hardship or pretending it doesn’t exist, acknowledging the pain, struggle, or setback allows us to confront it with clarity. This acceptance doesn’t mean surrendering to defeat; it means facing reality with courage. When we stop wishing things were different and start dealing with them as they are, we empower ourselves to find solutions, adapt, and grow. In this honest confrontation with difficulty, we begin to unlock our true strength.
Moreover, adversity often serves as an influential teacher. While we might not choose our challenges, we can choose how we respond to them. We may not be able to control the situation, but we all have control over how we choose to react or respond. Accepting adversity helps us cultivate patience, empathy, and perspectivequalities that often remain dormant in comfort. It reminds us that life isn’t always fair or predictable, but it’s still worth engaging with fully. Through adversity, we learn what matters most and discover capabilities we never knew we had. By embracing the reality of hardship, we transform it from a stumbling block into a stepping stone.
When facing hardship, it’s easy to focus only on the pain, the loss, or the unfairness. As humans, we can’t help but feel like – why is this happening to me? However, there’s power in shifting our perspective. Ask yourself: What can I learn from this? How might this experience make me stronger? Who can I become through this process? Changing how we view adversity can transform it from a curse into a catalyst for growth. For me personally, I have always said that my cancer diagnosis was a blessing in disguise. It was the catalyst that got me into fitness as a way to reclaim my health and vitality.
No one should have to navigate adversity alone. Whether it’s friends, family, a support group, or a therapist, having people you can lean on is crucial. Allow yourself to be vulnerable. Share your struggles. Let others remind you that you’re not alone and are loved, even in your weakest moments. Community creates strength. Even a few encouraging words from someone who cares can help rekindle hope.
Building a support system begins with the willingness to connect with others and to be vulnerable about our struggles. This often starts with reaching out to trusted family members, friends, mentors, or support groups who are willing to listen without judgment. It’s essential to surround ourselves with people who genuinely care, can offer perspective, and will remind us of our strength when we forget it ourselves. Being honest about our needs and allowing others to help us is not a sign of weakness; it’s an act of courage that reinforces our humanity and resilience.
In addition to personal relationships, a strong support system can also include professional resources such as therapists, coaches, or spiritual advisors. These individuals bring experience and objectivity that can be invaluable during times of crisis. It’s also helpful to create physical and emotional environments that encourage
positivity and growth, such as participating in communities that share similar values or goals. By intentionally cultivating connections and seeking out meaningful support, we not only navigate adversity more effectively but also build lasting bonds that enrich our lives beyond the moment of struggle.
In the midst of hardship, much feels out of our hands. It’s important to distinguish between what we can change and what we cannot. You might be unable to undo a diagnosis, fix a broken relationship, or erase a financial setback overnight. But what you can control is your attitude. You can control how you respond to the news. You can control your daily habits. You can control the kindness you show yourself. Focusing on small, controllable actions helps rebuild a sense of control when everything feels chaotic. I focused on maintaining positive thoughts. I wanted to be a survivor, not a victim.
Focusing on what we can control begins with a mindset shift: recognizing that while we may not have power over external events, we always have control over our actions, attitudes, and choices. It helps to pause and clearly separate what’s within our influence, like our daily habits, reactions, and effort, from what’s not, such as other people’s opinions, the past, or unexpected circumstances. When we direct our energy toward what we can do, we feel more grounded and empowered, rather than overwhelmed by what we can’t change. Practices like mindfulness, journaling, or goal-setting can help anchor us in the present and keep our attention on what’s manageable and meaningful.
Letting go of what we can’t control often requires acceptance and emotional discipline. It doesn’t mean we stop caring. It means we stop trying to force outcomes that are beyond our reach. This letting go becomes easier when we cultivate trust: in ourselves, the process, or something greater than us. Developing habits like gratitude, meditation, or seeking counsel during challenging moments can help release the need to control everything. By doing so, we reduce anxiety and create space for peace, clarity, and intentional action, ultimately freeing ourselves to live more fully and authentically.
Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, famously wrote that “those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear almost any ‘how.’” Finding meaning in suffering doesn’t erase the pain but can give it a deeper purpose.
Finding meaning doesn’t always happen immediately. Sometimes, it’s a slow unfolding. Be patient and trust that your experiences will weave into a bigger story with time. My focus was on my journey to health and wellness for many years. It’s taken me years, but now my focus has shifted to teaching and educating others all that I have learned throughout my journey. Today,, I aim to leverage my knowledge by sharing my experience with others.
Finding meaning in what happens to us, especially during difficult times, begins with reflection and a willingness to explore more profound questions about our experiences. Instead of asking “Why is this happening to me?”, we can shift to “What can this teach me?” or “How can I grow from this?” Meaning often emerges not from the event itself, but from how we interpret it and what we choose to do in response. Journaling, talking with others, or spending quiet time contemplating can help us uncover lessons, values, or insights hidden within our pain or challenges.
Meaning also comes from connecting our experiences to something larger than ourselves. This might be
through helping others who are going through similar struggles, using our story to inspire or uplift, or aligning our response with our deepest beliefs and purposes.
When we can transform hardship into service, wisdom, or personal growth, it stops simply being suffering, and becomes part of a larger journey. Ultimately, meaning isn’t something we find by accident; it’s something we create, choice by choice, as we navigate the highs and lows of life with intention.
Overcoming adversity is rarely a straight line. Progress can be painfully slow. There will be setbacks, frustrations, and days when it feels like nothing is getting better. Persistence is key. Keep showing up for yourself, even when the results aren’t visible yet. Healing, rebuilding, and growth are long-term investments. Trust that every small step forward matters. Adversity can be unexpected. I know, this may sound strange, but many people who have faced their worst nightmares describe the experience as a gift eventually. This is how I now view my cancer diagnosis. Why? Because adversity often:
CLARIFIES PRIORITIES : Hardship strips away the superficial and reminds us what truly matters: health, relationships, purpose, and love.
BUILDS RESILIENCE: Every time you survive a difficult moment, you’re a little stronger than before.
DEEPENS EMPATHY: Experiencing frequent pain makes us more compassionate toward others.
UNLEASHES CREATIVITY: Some of history’s greatest art, literature, and innovation were born from suffering.
STRENGTHENS FAITH: Many people find that adversity deepens their beliefs, whether religious or spiritual. For me, holding on to my faith was what helped me face every challenge. Turning to God for strength not only carried me through, but it also deepened my relationship with Him.
The very experience that feels like it’s breaking you today may be building you into someone even stronger, wiser, and more compassionate tomorrow. This is not only my personal experience. I hear the same things from others who have faced adversity.
If you’re in the midst of a storm right now, here are a few reminders:
You are stronger than you feel. Pain clouds our view of our own resilience. Trust that you have more strength than you can see right now.
You are not alone. Whatever you’re facing, someone else has walked a similar road and survived.
You don’t have to be perfect. Healing isn’t linear. It’s messy. Give yourself grace.
Small steps count. Sometimes, just getting out of bed, reaching out for help, or choosing hope for one more day is an act of incredible courage.
Your story matters. Someday, your story of resilience might be the beacon that lights someone else’s path. This is why I am telling my story – to give hope to someone who needs to hear this.
Adversity doesn’t mean your life is broken. It means you are being stretched, tested, and prepared for new growth. The storm you’re facing today could water the seeds of tomorrow’s success. If you’re standing in the rubble of dreams that didn’t work out, don’t give up. Use the stones to build something new. If you feel lost, remember: every hero’s journey includes moments of doubt, fear, and struggle. That’s what makes the victory so powerful.
You are not defined by what happens to you. You are defined by how you choose to react to your situation and by how you rise. Every struggle, scar, and tear you’ve shed has shaped you into someone more fierce, compassionate, and capable of living fully.
Resilience is the process of adapting in the face of adversity. So, take a deep breath. Take the next step. Trust that you’re stronger than you know, and that this, too, will become part of the beautiful story of who you are becoming.
1. Discover more about Julie’s approach to wellness, or how you can book a free discovery call by visiting her website: integrahealthwellness.com.
KOHLI:
1. Learn more about Dr. Neeraj Kohli and his practice, Boston Urogyn, by visiting his website at bostonurogyn.com.
Feel the Vibe. Stack Your Hacks™. and Support your Wellness Journey. You can find out more about TheraVibe by visiting their website at https://therasage.com/collections/theravibe-combo-page.
1. Rubik, B., et al. "Biofield Science and Healing: History, Terminology, and Concepts." Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 2015.
2. Jerabek, J., et al. "Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields." Environmental Health Criteria, WHO, 1981.
3. Cherry, N. "Schumann Resonances, a plausible biophysical mechanism for the human health effects of Solar/Geomagnetic Activity." Natural Hazards, 2002.
1. To learn more about events and retreats, or to schedule a call with Ocean Eagle, visit https://linktr. ee/oceaneagle1.
For inquiries regarding speaking engagements, health, wellness, and strength, please contact Ashleigh Quint at IG @up_lift_gym or via email at Ashleigh@uplift-gym.com.
1. Alberts B. et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell. Garland Science; 2014.
2. Barker DJP, Hales CN. British Medical Bulletin. 2001;60(1):5–20.
3. Gluckman PD, Hanson MA. Pediatric Research. 2004;56(3):311–317.
4. Gluckman PD, Hanson MA, Buklijas T. J Dev Orig Health Dis. 2010;1(1):6–18.
5. Waterland RA, Michels KB. Annu Rev Nutr. 2007;27:363–388.
1. To learn more about events and retreats, or to schedule a call with Ocean Eagle, visit https://linktr. ee/oceaneagle1.
You can find more from Evelyn through her website or social media channels:
1. Website: EvelynFlaharty.com
2. YouTube: Evelyn Flaharty
3. YouTube: Workouts With Evelyn Flaharty
4. Instagram: ffmusclesandcurves
5. TikTok: @evelynifbbpro
6. Facebook: Evelyn Flaharty
Introducing HypoNasal™ the allnatural nasal spray and rinse made with ultra-pure HOCl and Reverse Osmosis water for gentle, effective nasal care.
All-Natural & Pure: Made with pharmaceutical-grade hypochlorous acid and reverse osmosis water.
Clean Formula: Free of salt, preservatives, stabilizers, and f ragrances
Scientif ically Balanced: Optimized pH 5.4–5.7 with 100–110 PPM HOCl
Residue-Free Relief: Soothes, cleanses, and ref reshes without irritation
Long-Lasting: Stays potent for over 12 months when properly stored.
AVAILABLE NOW