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By: Jennifer Walker
Janel Kilnisan
TUNING IN TO TRANSFORMATION
For most people, massage is a one-off indulgence. You book a session, feel a little better, and move on with your life. But at Flow Massage Therapy, owner Jenn is rewriting that narrative. She sees massage not as an isolated event, but as the starting point for profound change- a way to reconnect with body, mind, and soul in pursuit of a healthier, more joyful life.
"Massage is part of a process, a process of awareness, transformation, and living the life you truly want to lead."
– Jenn, Chief Massage Therapist at Flow Massage Therapy, LLC.
“People get stuck in these old stories they’ve been told,” Jenn explains. “‘You’re just getting old.’ ‘You’ve always been this way.’ ‘That’s just the way it is.’ Those narratives aren’t truths, they’re labels, and they strip us of the ability to look within and ask, what do I need? How do I get there? Who do I really want to be?”
A Program That Commits to You
This September, Flow Massage Therapy launches its most ambitious project yet: Tune Up and Tune In, a year-long program designed to guide participants into lasting transformation.
Unlike spa gift certificates or the occasional massage, Tune Up and Tune In asks for (and offers) commitment. Over twelve months, up to 200 participants will embark on a journey of physical healing, emotional release, and personal growth.
It begins with a thorough intake and consultation to uncover each person’s goals, concerns, and history. Participants are then paired with one of Flow’s specialized therapists, whose expertise spans oncology massage, hospice care, lymphatic drainage, caregiver massage, sports massage, pre- and post-natal care, and much more.
Rather than one-size-fits-all sessions, Flow’s treatments are customized, targeted, and deeply personal. Jenn envisions friends and families even pooling resources to offer a loved one this transformative program, “a year of self-care and awareness,” she calls it, “instead of another item off of a gift registry.” There’s something deeply special and personal about offering a new mother (for example) a year of self-care, as opposed to the traditional gift certificate to Target or a bag of diapers. Consider how enlightening this kind of process might be for someone who is embarking on a new life journey, or moving through something that is heavy or difficult. Applying self-care to one’s routine shifts the mindset and opens up the opportunity for expansion in healing. A true gift.
The intention of the Tune Up and Tune In program is not simply to ease pain in the moment, but to disrupt patterns that keep people stuck. For clients who have exhausted traditional medical routes without relief, Flow
often becomes the “last Hail Mary”- and, in many cases, the turning point.
Beyond Massage: A Network of Healing
Massage alone, Jenn insists, isn’t always enough. That’s why Flow collaborates with a wide network of practitioners with nutritionists, acupuncturists, sound healers, astrologists, hypnotists and life coaches among them, who contribute to the holistic transformation of each participant.
“With new experiences comes awareness and perspective,” Jenn says. “Instead of ‘I can’t,’ it’s ‘why not?’ Instead of ‘I won’t,’ it’s ‘why not me?’ We want people to shift from hiding in the back of the (metaphorical) class to raising their hand and saying, ‘That’s me. I WANT SOME OF THAT!’”
Each month, participants can attend a two-hour “Tune In” session with Jenn and other guest speakers; either in person or via Zoom. These check-ins will review general observations from client visits, offer Q and A’s as well as insights from Flow’s extended healing team.
Stories of Transformation
The power of this approach is best seen in Flow’s clients. One striking example: a 51-year-old Taekwondo competitor who came to Jenn overwhelmed by a laundry list of ailments that threatened his ability to compete. After working with Flow, he not only healed, but went on to win two gold and two bronze medals at national competitions. Preparing for international championships, he returned to Jenn to refine his treatment plan for even greater performance.
Another group that finds solace at Flow are hospice and Alzheimer’s patients. Jenn has worked with many at the most vulnerable stages of life, providing not just physical relief but dignity and care. It’s not just about easing pain, it’s about creating a sense of peace and possibility, even in the hardest moments.
Chronic pain sufferers, too, find hope at Flow. Many arrive after years, sometimes decades of unrelenting discomfort. By addressing not only the body’s physical knots but also the emotional and energetic imbalances beneath them, Flow often helps clients reclaim a quality of life they thought was gone forever.
A “Whole-listic” Approach
Every new Flow client begins with what Jenn calls a “whole-listic” assessment- a play on the word holistic- that reflects her belief that no
Photo:
part of a person’s experience should be overlooked.
The process includes a detailed intake form, posture analysis, medical history review, and when applicable, examination of diagnostic reports. Nothing is too small to matter. “Every body tells a unique story, and we listen,” Jenn says.
By layering professional assessment with empathy, Flow creates treatment plans that are both deeply personal and highly effective. The goal, Jenn emphasizes, is always progress. “Teach first, heal second,” she explains. “When people understand their bodies, they can participate in their unique healing. That’s when transformation happens.”
Shifting Mindsets, Opening Doors
For many, the most transformative part of Tune Up and Tune In isn’t the physical relief but the shift in mindset. Jenn recounts conversations with clients who say things like, “I’ve always wanted to dance, but I’m not trained.” Her response: “No dancer was a dancer until they began learning.”
By dismantling limiting beliefs, Flow opens doors not just to wellness, but to joy, freedom, and possibility. The program encourages participants to try new things, embrace new perspectives, and challenge the excuses that have kept them from living fully.
“When mindset and focus change, miraculous things can happen,” Jenn says.
The Bigger Picture
What sets Flow apart is the belief that wellness is not maintenance- it’s transformation. The program’s framework is designed to create ripple effects far beyond the massage table: improved relationships, renewed creativity, enhanced productivity, and a more hopeful outlook on life. For Jenn, the work is deeply personal. She has seen too many people surrender to pain and limitation, convinced that there’s no other way. Tune Up and Tune In is her response- a structured, compassionate, year-long invitation to rediscover what’s possible. Transformation is possible, and also, the idea that we can restore the body’s innate wisdom (an
intuitive intelligence) to be able to heal from within.
“Imagine living in chronic pain and then having it disappear,” she says. “How much would that change your daily life, your activity level, your plans for the future? That’s what we’re working toward.”
For more information on Flow Massage Therapy and September’s launch of the Tune Up and Tune In program, please visit www.FlowMassage.info
You can also follow Jenn and Flow Massage here: www.instagram.com/flowmassageinfo www.tiktok.com/@flowmassageinfo www.youtube.com/@flowmassageinfo www.facebook.com/flowmassageinfo
*A Note From the Asst. Editor, Jennifer Walker: I visited Flow Massage Therapy for a comprehensive consultation, introductory assessment and body treatment. I was at ease entering the calm and well maintained space and immediately guided through the introductory process. Jenn took a full body analysis of my posture, as my intake paperwork indicated that I had some physical issues which I had struggled with for years. She made notes and recommendations for massage treatment. Once the initial intake process was complete, I was treated to a very personalized and professional massage which not only targeted my problem areas, but opened up stagnant energy in my body and allowed for a better energetic flow. Jenn was direct and communicated with me throughout the massage, checking in to see how I felt and what my needs were. By the end of the session, I saw vast improvements in every area where I previously had concern. I left with ‘homework’ which consisted of exercises and even a mantra to contemplate and apply toward my daily practice at home. Overall, I was invigorated and impressed; Jenn knows her stuff! Flow Massage Therapy is a place I personally plan to visit again as part of my wellness journey.
GENOMICS AND PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
>>> How a One-Time Test Can Transform a Lifetime of Healthcare
When “Healthy” Isn’t the Whole Story
At least half the people who walk into my office aren’t sick. They exercise, eat well, take supplements, and do everything they can to preserve their health. Many track their sleep, wear continuous glucose monitors, or subscribe to the latest health podcasts. Yet despite all this effort, they often feel a nagging uncertainty.
Why do I recover slower than my friends?
Why does my sleep feel restless despite doing everything right?
Why do I need an entire shelf of supplements just to feel “normal”?
And most importantly: how do I know what’s actually necessary for me?
These are not the questions of sick patients. These are the questions of healthy, motivated, optimization-seeking people who are tired of guessing.
The truth is, traditional medicine and even much of functional medicine are still built on trial and error. If you feel fatigued, we check your thyroid. If that’s normal, we try iron, B vitamins, vitamin D, maybe adaptogens. If you have brain fog, we rule out sleep apnea, test hormones, recommend omega-3s, and perhaps try medications. Each step might help a little—but often it feels like throwing darts in the dark.
This is where genomics and precision medicine shift the paradigm. With a single one-time test, we can read your body’s instruction manual. We can see why your vitamin D supplementation never seems to “work,” why coffee keeps you tired when it energizes your friend, or why your recovery lags despite perfect labs. We can move from trial and error to clarity and confidence.
For healthy people seeking longevity and optimization, this isn’t just about preventing disease—it’s about unlocking your best healthspan.
Genomics: The Instruction Manual We’ve Been Missing
The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, mapped the 3 billion letters of human DNA at a cost of nearly $3 billion. Today, sequencing your genome costs less than many imaging studies. More importantly, it only needs to be done once. Unlike your cholesterol level or glucose reading, your DNA doesn’t change.
But how we use this knowledge has changed. In the early days, genomics was seen as a tool for rare diseases and cancer care. Today, it’s clear that the genome provides insights for everyone—whether you are a patient struggling with unexplained symptoms or an athlete finetuning recovery.
Your genome reveals:
• Risk profiles for common diseases like cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
• Metabolic pathways for nutrients like vitamin D, omega-3s, folate, and caffeine.
• Drug metabolism (pharmacogenomics), guiding which medications will work best for you.
• Cellular defenses against oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial decline.
It is, in short, the operating manual we’ve been practicing without.
The Problem With Trial and Error
For decades, medicine has been forced into guesswork. Patients with rare diseases endure a “diagnostic odyssey” of 5–7 years before finding answers. Those with fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained symptoms are often dismissed, told their labs are normal, or cycled through therapies without resolution. Even motivated, healthy people build supplement cabinets full of bottles because conventional wisdom says “take vitamin D, fish oil, probiotics, and curcumin”—but is that advice right for them?
The result is wasted time, wasted money, and, more importantly, wasted healthspan.
Genomics allows us to cut through that noise. It shows us, with clarity, what matters for you. It narrows the field of interventions from dozens to a select few that will actually make a difference.
Optimization in Action: Four Illustrations
Consider Sarah, a 45-year-old runner. For years she felt proud of her clean diet and disciplined training. Yet her recovery lagged, and her mind felt foggy after long runs. Standard labs showed nothing unusual. But her genome revealed the truth: as an ApoE4/4 carrier, she struggled to synthesize DHA from plant sources. No amount of chia seeds or flax oil could make up for her inability to create the long-chain omega-3s her neurons and muscles desperately needed. Add in vitamin D receptor variants and impaired nitric oxide pathways, and the picture became clear. With targeted marine DHA/EPA, personalized vitamin D dosing, and nitric oxide support, she turned the corner. Her supplement shelf shrank, her recovery improved, and her mind felt sharper than it had in years.
David, a 52-year-old executive, thought his genetics were “average” with an ApoE3/E3 profile. Yet genomics uncovered weak antioxidant defenses through GST and SOD2 variants. This meant that while his peers could handle high-stress travel and intense workouts, he accumulated oxidative stress more quickly. Instead of drowning in antioxidants and adaptogens, he started a focused protocol of glutathione precursors, Nrf2 activators, and mitochondrial support. His recovery time improved, his energy stabilized, and his supplement cabinet became leaner, smarter, and far more effective.
Melissa, 38, the quintessential biohacker, believed her espresso-fueled mornings were her superpower. But her CYP1A2 genotype revealed that she was a slow caffeine metabolizer. That espresso lingered in her system, spiking cortisol, impairing sleep, and quietly raising her cardiovascular risk. By adjusting her caffeine window and dose, she didn’t just feel better—her sleep, recovery, and long-term risk profile dramatically improved.
Raj, 50, was already in peak shape. But genomics revealed an MTHFR mutation, raising his homocysteine and silently increasing vascular and cognitive risk. Rather than loading his body with dozens of supplements “just in case,” we focused precisely on methylated B vitamins and diet. His homocysteine normalized, closing a gap he didn’t even know he had.
What unites these patients is not that they were sick, but that they were already healthy—yet frustrated by uncertainty. Genomics turned frustration into clarity.
From Confusion to Clarity
These stories illustrate the power of precision medicine. ApoE4 carriers need targeted omega-3s and oxidative stress management. Vitamin D receptor polymorphisms explain why standard doses don’t work for some patients. Nitric oxide synthase variants reveal who benefits most from beets, L-citrulline, and aerobic exercise. Antioxidant pathway weaknesses explain why some people age faster under stress. CYP1A2 differences explain why one person thrives on coffee while another feels anxious and wired. MTHFR mutations reveal why some need methylated B vitamins to protect cognition and cardiovascular health.
Without genomics, these factors remain hidden. With genomics, they become actionable.
Streamlining the Supplement Cabinet
One of the most practical benefits of genomics is in supplement strategy. Patients often arrive with entire cabinets of pills, powders, and capsules. Some are helpful, many are redundant, and a few are unnecessary. Genomics allows us to streamline this chaos.
Instead of guessing whether you need vitamin D, genomics tells us whether your receptors are functioning efficiently. Instead of guessing whether you need omega-3s, it tells us whether your conversion pathways are effective. Instead of giving everyone methylated B vitamins, it tells us who actually needs them.
The result is not more supplementation, but less—more targeted, effective, and efficient. For many patients, this clarity is as liberating as the health improvements themselves.
The Economics of Precision
Beyond individual lives, genomics saves the system money. Pharmacogenomics prevents costly adverse drug reactions, saving billions annually. Early detection of cardiovascular risk prevents strokes and heart attacks, saving lives and reducing the burden of late-stage disease. Cascade testing means one person’s insights can protect entire families.
Precision medicine is not more expensive—it is smarter, earlier, and ultimately more cost effective.
A New Era in Medicine
Over the next decade, genomics will integrate with other tools of precision health. Whole genome sequencing will become standard. AI will help interpret complex polygenic risk scores. Epigenomics will map how
By: Manoj K. Sharma, DO, Board Certified Internal Medicine
lifestyle choices flip genetic switches. Electronic health records will integrate genomic data to provide real-time prescribing alerts. Longevity medicine will combine genomics with VO₂ max, microbiome profiling, and biological age testing to create comprehensive healthspan strategies.
Medicine will no longer be about diagnosing disease late, but predicting and preventing it early.
The Elite Medical Associates Difference
At Elite Medical Associates, we place genomics at the foundation of care. We combine it with internal medicine, functional medicine, regenerative therapies, and advanced diagnostics. We don’t guess—we guide. We don’t overload you with supplements—we streamline. We don’t chase symptoms—we personalize prevention.
Our mission is not just to extend life, but to extend healthspan—those years of vitality, cognition, and independence that matter most.
A Precision Health Manifesto
Most of you reading this are already healthy. You may feel strong, capable, and sharp. But health today does not guarantee resilience tomorrow. The seeds of future decline are often planted silently, decades before symptoms arise. Genomics gives us the ability to see those seeds, and either remove them or cultivate them into strengths.
It is not a crystal ball. Genes are not destiny. But they are the starting point—the soil in which lifestyle, nutrition, environment, and choices grow. Without knowing your soil, you are guessing. With it, you are guiding.
This is the future of medicine. Not trial and error, but clarity. Not generic advice, but precision. Not managing disease, but optimizing life.
As I often tell patients: “Genomics is the instruction manual we’ve been practicing without. When we read it, we stop guessing—and start guiding.”
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still not getting the clarity you want, it may be time to stop guessing and start guiding. Genomic testing is a one-time investment that can shape your health decisions for a lifetime—whether that means choosing the right supplements, fine-tuning your exercise, protecting your brain, or lowering your long-term disease risk. At Elite Medical Associates, we integrate your unique genetic blueprint with advanced diagnostics and personalized care so you can optimize your healthspan, not just extend your lifespan. If you’re ready to streamline your health strategy and finally know what matters for you, schedule a consultation and let’s design your precision medicine plan together.
TRAVEL WELL >>> Ofland Escalante
Nestled in the heart of Southern Utah’s breathtaking canyon country, Ofland Escalante is more than just a place to stay, it’s a destination that celebrates the spirit of adventure, connection with nature, and nostalgia for the classic American road trip. Once known as Yonder Escalante, the property rebranded to Ofland in 2024 and expanded its offerings. Our visit last month was a much needed getaway and we cannot wait to go back!
Ofland offers a variety of accommodations. Visitors can choose from a deluxe cabin, a tiny cabin, a vintage airstream or a campsite. The deluxe cabins include private bathrooms, outdoor showers which are comfortably outfitted with an overhead heater, panoramic views, kitchenettes, and drive-up parking. They’re spacious enough for up to four guests and perfect for families or retreating with friends. The tiny cabins are compact but stylish- these 320 sq. ft. cabins have lofty 11-ft. glass walls and are nestled near communal bathhouses with heated outdoor showers.
One ADA-accessible cabin caters to guests with mobility needs . The vintage airstreams are a nod to retro road-tripping. These trailers sleep up to three, offer modern comforts, and share access to the bathhouse and outdoor showers. The campsites accommodate tents, pop-up campers, or vans (under 13 ft.), and come with grills, filtered water, power hookups, picnic tables, and access to hotel facilities.
Ofland excels at offering bespoke, nature-focused experiences mixed with comfort. We had a great time at their on-site drive-in theater, watching Back to the Future under the stars while sitting in one of their restored vintage cars. An airstream serves as a concession stand offering free popcorn as well as a variety of drinks and snacks. The outdoor lodge and general store includes a communal space for coffee, snacks, games, and connection. The pool was perfect for daily lounging and the oversized hot tub offered a refreshing retreat after our hike through Lower Calf Creek Falls.
Food options at Ofland include an on-site food truck, which surprisingly whipped up one of the best breakfast sandwiches we’d ever eaten! The General Store is stocked with snacks, grab-and-go items, and local beverages. For us, the best food option was Ofland’s DIY meal kit which are delivered right to your cabin or campsite. Each kit includes a pre-seasoned protein- we chose the locally sourced Kanab steaks, two vegetable sides, choice of bread and a S’mores kit. The staff brings you everything you need to prepare and cook the meal on the grill and then returns later to collect all the dirty dishes.
The property is committed to reducing single-use plastics, has partnered with local vendors, collaborates with indigenous communities, and showcases a short film on the importance of dark-sky preservation before nightly movie screenings .
Ofland Escalante isn’t your average hotel. Just under five hours from Vegas, Ofland is a thoughtfully crafted gateway into Utah’s canyonlands. Whether you're drawn by the glamping-style cabins, nostalgic drive-in movies under star-filled skies, or freedom to explore landscapes both rugged and sublime, this place delivers an immersive, comfortable, and memorable mountain-west experience.
For more information visit ofland.com. Check them out on Instagram @oflandhotels.
By: Stephanie Shehan
Photos: Mikal Kelaidis & Kim + Nash Finley
FRUSTRATED WITH CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE?
Many patients feel a lack of time with their PCPs – they feel rushed during appointments which leaves them disconnected. And, those with chronic conditions face a very fragmented care, seeing multiple specialists without coordination, communication, and without a good and clear plan for their health
SMARTER CARE
Whether you are in need of a comprehensive evaluation of your overall health or you are looking for a long-term relationship with your own private doctor, I can help. VIRTUAL
The Unexpected Self-Care Practice You’ve Been Overlooking >>> THRIFT THERAPY
Some people meditate to escape the chaos of their minds. I slip into secondhand spaces.
Thrift stores, estate sales, and vintage shops are some of the only places my overactive ADHD brain finds quiet and calm. Submerged within a fabric jungle, under the glow of a flat fluorescent sun. Phone firmly in pocket, my eyes are free to drink in the symphony of fabric and color. My hands, to read textures like Braille. I am completely immersed in the moment, which is rare for me in this age of digital dependency.
I trace along a trail of hangers until one piece stops me cold. It’s heavier than it looks, weighted with secrets I can’t yet name. As I pull it from the rack, my suspicions are confirmed. A 1960s tag stares back at me, affixed to a rust-hued velvet blazer that could have walked straight out of the Summer of Love. The edges are embroidered in a way you don’t see anymore, and my mind overflows with questions. Who has it belonged to? What has it seen? What stories does it hold? The tag reaches out to me. Eight dollars for this velvet time capsule? I’ve spent more on lunch without thinking twice. This, on the other hand, feels criminal. Like I should pay and leave before someone realizes their mistake.
In my hands, it’s more than fabric. It’s time made tangible, and it’s in moments like these that I find grounding. This is why I come here. To slow down. To step out of the noise. To move at the pace of my own curiosity. To see what’s been left here for me to carry forward.
Why Do People Shop Secondhand?
Secondhand shopping is an experience unto itself. Unlike traditional
retail therapy, it’s less about the destination, and all about the journey. The pursuit. The hunt. The discovery. And for the most part, its appeal is divisive: you either understand it or you don’t. I want to help more people understand it.
What makes someone want to buy used clothing rather than something fresh and unworn? Beyond the obvious factors like affordability and keeping textiles out of landfills, here are some of my favorite reasons for shopping pre-owned:
It’s a treasure hunt. You get to access one-of-a-kind, discontinued, or vintage items that you can’t find in mainstream retail stores. In certain cases, what you find in the wild might be the last of its kind or remnant of a brand in existence.
The quality is often better. In the days before modern mass production, manufacturers focused more on quality over quantity. That means heavier fabrics, stronger stitching, and better materials that can endure decades of wear.
The social and ethical impact. When you buy secondhand, you’re not just finding something to wear. You’re supporting small businesses and charity-based stores, extending the life of what already exists, and helping to reduce the demand for mass-produced clothing.
The serendipity factor. Thrift store racks change daily. Estate sales offer a brief glimpse into one unique life before disappearing. Yard sales scatter pieces of personal history across a lawn for just a few hours. Each piece takes its own journey to get to where you are. Then, somehow, you and
that perfect piece converge in the same place at the same time. It’s a quiet game of chance, decades in the making.
And lastly, for me, it’s a meditative experience. As a millennial caught between the simplicity of the ‘90s and the overstimulation of today, secondhand shopping feels like one of the few activities we have left that keeps us fully present with the real world. And while it’s already gone digital in a big way, I pray we never phase out the ritual of wandering aisles, embracing fabrics, and letting the right piece find us.
But it’s not all about the clothes. Secondhand treasure hunting can support your mind, your mood, and your pace of life. Let’s talk about how.
Thrifting for Wellness?
You might be surprised to learn that shopping pre-owned can add more to your life than just a refreshed wardrobe. In fact, a number of Americans have already turned to secondhand shopping as a form of self-care. A 2025 survey conducted by Talker Research, conducted in collaboration with Mercari, found that 57% of secondhand shoppers consider it an act of self-care, with 70% of Gen-Z describing thrifting as an essential part of their wellness routine.
Here are just a few examples of how you can make secondhand shopping part of your wellness journey, too.
Healing Through Self-expression
We’ve all been there. Burnout hits, a breakup blindsides us, or life shifts in some big way, and suddenly we’re itching to rework our personal style; sometimes, our entire sense of self. Healing happens in these transitional periods and sourcing once-loved pieces is an easy, low-stakes way of exploring your own self-expression without having to invest in an expensive wardrobe overhaul. It will also give you a chance to shop with authenticity and choose pieces that truly resonate with you instead of limiting yourself to whatever the trend cycle demands.
I recently spoke about this with Alisha, who works at Reclaim Las Vegas, an Arts District clothing shop whose racks are entirely filled with secondhand pieces sourced from local curators and archival fashion collectors. Alongside her work there, she runs her own secondhand clothing business online and sells her handpicked collections on two racks within the shop. Her personal motto: saving the world one garment at a time.
Alisha has also experienced the healing side of secondhand. “When I went through a really rough breakup, thrifting helped me in so many ways to reconnect with myself. It not only took my mind off the pain, but it also gave me space to refocus on me, my style, and my business. Sourcing secondhand proved I could sustain myself financially, and what I love most about it is passing that joy onto others and seeing the way people light up when they buy a piece from me.”
Mindfulness in the Hunt
I like to think of thrifting as a walking meditation. There’s no rush, no screens, and little distraction. It’s just you and the clothes: textures under your fingertips, colors drawing your eye, and the subtle slide of
By Andrea Caple
hangers across a rack. Your mind is fully present, filled with curiosity and possibility.
That might sound like fluff, but the benefits are actually physiological. Research published in BMC Psychology found that engaging the senses, especially through touch, can help calm the nervous system and shift the body out of stress mode. In one controlled study, participants showed lower anxiety levels and improved heart rate variability. In other words, their nervous system returned to balance.
Likewise, when you’re immersed in the slow, intentional ritual of the hunt, your senses are tuned in to the here and now in a way you might find surprisingly calming.
Connecting to the Story
Humans are wired for storytelling. It’s how we understand ourselves and each other. And once you’re tuned in, you’ll realize every pre-owned garment holds a story, even if you’ll never know it in full. Each piece is a fragment of a past life. A jacket worn to a protest. A dress that somebody fell in love with. A tie that gave someone the confidence to finally demand what they deserve. You might even start to see minor wear as character; evidence of a history that shaped a piece into something one-of-a-kind.
When you choose clothing with a past, you connect with the larger human experience, a story bigger than your own, in a way that makes you feel not so alone. In fact, there’s almost an unspoken camaraderie among secondhand shoppers.
“Thrifting has helped me connect with people,” says Chase, another part of the Reclaim team. “I’ve met some of my closest friends while thrifting. There’s a deep sense of community, and I see it every day here at the shop. It brings people together.”
Beyond the Racks
People often frame secondhand shopping as just a bargain hunt, quirky hobby, or eco-friendly move. My hope is that you walk away knowing it’s so much more than that; a potential practice in presence, healing, selfexpression, community, and self-care. If you’ve never tried it, consider this your invitation. The next rack you browse might surprise you with more than just a good find.
Looking to explore some lovingly curated secondhand fashion? Visit Reclaim Las Vegas at 1400 S Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89104, and follow them on Instagram at @reclaimlv. You can also follow Alisha for more vintage finds at @pmprettythings, and connect with Chase at @ chasemontesouthern.
Andrea is a Vegas-based writer, creative professional, and founder of Ruby Cat Creative, a boutique agency specializing in editorial content, digital storytelling, and general ghostwriting. Her work explores themes like emotional wellness, neurodivergence, self-reclamation, and modern burnout. When she's not writing, she can be found reading, thrifting, buying more plants than she has room for, or upcycling forgotten items into something worth keeping. Got a project, question, comment, or good antique store recommendation? Drop her a message at andrea@ rubycatcreative.com.
>>> BODY20 WELCOMES LOCAL GROUPS FOR ON-SITE
DEMO VISITS AND CORPORATE EVENTS
ON SITE DEMO VISITS
BODY20 recently launched on-site demo visits and encourage local groups and organizations to schedule a time to check out the facility. Groups with a minimum of 8 attendees tour the studio, participate in demos, and receive brief instructional training on electrical muscle stimulation (EMS.) There is no cost to schedule a group visit and membership specials will be available at the time of visit for those interested. BODY20 also offers accommodations for VIP events - please call the facility for details.
CORPORATE EVENTS
BODY20 brings wellness to the workplace. The team at BODY20 has the ability to bring the EMS experience to your employees. From small business “Lunch & Learns” to large corporate presentations - BODY20 trainers will arrive with equipment and offer arm demos along with an educational presentation and employee discounts.
ABOUT BODY20
BODY20 is not your typical gym. Workouts are fast-paced and last just 20 minutes. Each session, a personal trainer guides the member through a personalized, one-on-one program focused on either strength, cardio, or a mix of both. Prior to beginning the session, the member is outfitted with a lightweight, adjustable, electrode-enabled suit which provides their body with over 150 times more muscle contractions than a typical workout. Workouts are guided and may include the use of light hand weights, bands, and weighted balls. Each workout burns calories, reduces cellulite, tones the body, increases blood circulation and builds lean muscle. By following the guidance of professional trainers at every stage, members typically see improvements in posture, core strength, and even back discomfort while addressing muscle imbalances.
BODY20 MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES
Refer 4 Pay No More: An active member who refers four friends that become active members at BODY20, will receive their membership for no cost (lowest cost of membership apply and referrals must be active members).
Free Restore Session: Active members that bring a friend to do an in studio demo, will receive a Restore Session for no cost.
InBody Challenge: The next InBody Challenge starts September 15th and runs for six weeks.
Dietician Live: Members receive their first session free. Work oneon-one with a remote dietician for advice on nutrition, sleep, stress management, relationships and more.
BODY20 BENEFITS
Maximum Results in Minimal
Time: Each 20-minute BODY20 session equals hours in the
conventional gym.
Minimize Strain on Musculoskeletal System: The lack of heavy weights in training sessions enables a high-intensity workout that is lowimpact on joints, bones, nerves, and muscles.
Fat Reduction: Like with most strength training, BODY20’s strength training sessions prompt a higher level of metabolic activity both during and after workouts, causing the body to burn more fat longer.
Build Muscle (Hypertrophy): The extra stimulation given to muscles during each session leads to a quicker increase in muscle mass. Studies have also shown that EMS is effective at speeding muscle rebuilding postsurgery.
Improve Strength and Endurance: A typical gym workout recruits anywhere from 30-70% of a person’s strength potential depending on fitness level. By improving how muscles work together and increasing muscle contraction intensity, Body20 sessions recruit up to 90%.
Relax Muscle Tension: Sessions promote the circulation of blood throughout the muscles, which can significantly help to release muscular tension and knots.
Correct Muscular Imbalances: BODY20 sessions can be customized to target selective muscle groups or sides of the body, which can play a vital role in correcting imbalances.
Optimize Posture: Sessions are particularly effective at improving core strength, fostering good posture and preventing injuries.
Enhance Sports Performance: Through maximizing the capacity and strength of muscles, and correcting posture and other imbalances, BODY20 is a proven performance enhancer and the ultimate body hack.
Complete Customization: Your BODY20 plan, sessions, and settings will be customized and personalized for your body and wellness goals.
BODY20 is located at 4280 S Hualapai Wy, Las Vegas, NV 89147. To sign up for a free trial class, call (725) 218-3270. For more information, visit them online at body20.com.
Facebook: body20summerlinsouth
Instagram: @body20summerlinsouth
$399 ACCELERATOR SPECIAL
12 sessions per month
3 sessions per week
(with a 6-month commitment)
>>> Breathe Better, Live Better
THE TRANSFORMATIVE BENEFITS OF INCORPORATING BREATHWORK INTO YOUR ROUTINE
In our fast-paced, hyperconnected world, it’s easy to underestimate the power of something as simple as breathing. After all, it’s automaticyou’ve been doing it since the moment you were born without giving it much thought. Yet, beneath its seeming simplicity lies an extraordinary tool for mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical vitality. Breathwork, the practice of intentionally controlling and deepening your breathing, is more than a wellness trend. It’s an ancient, science-backed method for enhancing nearly every aspect of your life.
Whether you’re looking to reduce stress and discomfort, improve athletic performance, or deepen your sense of presence, incorporating breathwork into your daily routine can be a game-changer. Let’s explore why this practice is so transformative, how it works, and most importantly an easy way to start.
Why Breathwork Works: The Science Behind the Practice
Breathing is not just about taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. It is a direct communication channel with your nervous system. Each breath you take signals to your body whether it should be in a state of alertness or relaxation. Rapid, shallow breathing tends to activate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering the “fight-or-flight” response. In contrast, slow, deep breathing stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes “rest-and-digest” functions.
Modern research supports what ancient practices like yoga and meditation have long known: conscious breathing influences heart rate, blood pressure, hormone balance, and brain activity. Studies have found that regular breathwork can help regulate cortisol (the stress hormone), increase oxygen utilization in the body, and even improve immune function.
By controlling your breath, you gain a degree of control over your mind
and body that few other habits can offer. Instead of letting stress dictate your state, you can use breath to steer yourself toward calm focus or energized clarity, depending on what you need at the moment.
The Benefits of Regular Breathwork Practice
Breathwork’s effects are wide-reaching, impacting mental, emotional, and physical health in ways that compound over time. This includes:
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Intentional breathing lowers heart rate and blood pressure, creating a physiological state that makes it harder for stress to take hold. In anxious moments, slow and rhythmic breathing signals safety to your brain, reducing the grip of fight-or-flight responses.
Improved Focus and Mental Clarity
By increasing oxygen delivery to the brain, breathwork can sharpen cognitive performance. Many people use short breathing exercises before important meetings, creative work, or athletic events to feel more centered and clear-headed.
Better Emotional Regulation
Breathing is a bridge between the body and mind. Learning to slow and deepen your breath when emotions run high can help you respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Over time, this skill can make it easier to navigate conflicts and stressful situations.
Enhanced Physical Performance
Athletes have long used breath training to improve endurance and recovery. Efficient breathing helps muscles get the oxygen they need during exertion and clears metabolic waste more effectively afterward.
Improved Sleep Quality
Many who struggle with insomnia find that breathwork before bed quiets mental chatter and relaxes the body enough to drift into deeper, more restorative sleep.
Strengthened Mind-Body Awareness
Focusing on the breath draws attention inward, enhancing your ability to notice tension, posture, and subtle bodily cues. This heightened awareness often translates into better movement patterns and fewer stress-related aches.
Why Consistency Matters
Like any skill, breathwork yields the best results when practiced consistently. The good news is that it doesn’t require hours of your day. Even a few minutes of intentional breathwork can make a noticeable difference. Over time, you’ll find that your body begins to shift into calmer states more quickly, and the benefits begin to show up naturally in everyday life.
Think of breathwork as a form of “inner training.” Just as lifting weights strengthens muscles, conscious breathing strengthens your ability to regulate stress, stay present, and recover from mental or physical fatigue. And because breathing is always with you, it’s a tool you can use anywhere, whether you are stuck in traffic, at your desk, or winding down before bed.
By Sarah Schwefel
A Simple Breathwork Technique to Get You Started
While there are dozens of breathwork styles, from energizing “Breath of Fire” techniques to calming “4-7-8” breathing, beginners often benefit from a simple, grounding exercise they can use daily. Here’s one of the most effective: Box Breathing.
This method is used by everyone from meditation practitioners to Navy SEALs because it’s both simple and powerful.
How to Practice Box Breathing:
1. Sit Comfortably: You can sit in a chair with feet flat on the ground or cross-legged on a cushion. Keep your spine upright but relaxed.
2. Inhale for 4 Seconds: Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling your abdomen expand.
3. Hold for 4 Seconds: Pause gently without tensing your body.
4. Exhale for 4 Seconds: Release the breath through your nose or mouth, feeling your body soften.
5. Hold for 4 Seconds: Rest without air in your lungs before beginning the next cycle.
Repeat this pattern for 3–5 minutes. As you become more comfortable, you can increase the count to 5 or 6 seconds for deeper relaxation. This technique works well in the morning to center yourself for the day, during stressful moments to regain composure, or at night to prepare for sleep, relaxing both the body and mind.
Making Breathwork a Daily Habit
The easiest way to make breathwork stick is to tie it to an existing habit. For example, practice for five minutes right after waking, before your morning coffee, or while sitting in your parked car before work. You can also use it as a mini reset between tasks or as part of your wind-down routine before bed.
Consider keeping a brief journal of how you feel before and after each session. Over time, you’ll notice patterns; maybe your afternoon headaches disappear, your sleep improves, or you handle stressful conversations with more ease.
Breathwork is not just a wellness add-on; it’s a foundational skill for living with more ease, presence, and resilience. By incorporating even a few minutes of intentional breathing into your daily routine, you can reduce stress, sharpen your mind, improve physical performance, and deepen your connection to yourself.
The beauty of breathwork lies in its accessibility: no equipment, no special environment, just you and your breath. The more you practice, the more it becomes second nature, turning something you’ve done unconsciously your whole life into one of the most powerful tools for health and self-mastery.
Breathe well, and you’ll live better - one breath at a time.
MENOPAUSE FAIR
A community event to raise awareness, spread knowledge, and create a supportive space for women navigating perimenopause and menopause.
D ate: October 11, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Lotus Studio Events 1470 Raiders Way, He nderson, NV 89052
THE FIRST EVER LAS VEGAS
>>> PAIN
UNDERSTANDING THE MUSCULOSKELETAL AND BIOCHEMICAL CAUSES
Pain is more than just a symptom, it's a signal that something in your body isn't functioning properly. While some pain is acute and short-lived, many individuals suffer from chronic pain that can significantly impact quality of life. At Back In Action Chiropractic, we specialize in identifying and addressing the root causes of pain, both musculoskeletal and biochemical to help you get back to doing what you love, pain-free.
The Musculoskeletal Causes of Pain
The musculoskeletal system includes your bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and connective tissues. When any part of this complex system is out of alignment or overused, it can lead to pain and dysfunction.
Common musculoskeletal causes of pain include:
• Poor posture
• Car accidents
• Sports Injuries
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Joint misalignments (subluxations)
• Muscle imbalances
• Disc problems (such as bulging or herniated discs)
• Inflammation of joints and soft tissues
These issues can cause localized pain (such as neck or lower back pain) or refer pain to other parts of the body, such as headaches, sciatica, or shoulder discomfort.
The Biochemical Causes of Pain
Pain doesn't always originate from mechanical dysfunction, biochemical imbalances in the body can also be a major contributing factor. Inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and even stress can chemically sensitize nerves, disrupt healing, and amplify pain signals.
Biochemical contributors to pain may include:
• Chronic inflammation
• Poor diet or food sensitivities
• Toxin accumulation
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Hormonal disruptions (e.g., cortisol, insulin)
• Oxidative stress and free radical damage
Addressing these biochemical imbalances is essential for reducing systemic inflammation and supporting tissue healing and recovery.
Why Choose Back In Action Chiropractic?
At Back In Action Chiropractic, we take a holistic approach to pain relief and healing. We understand that pain is often the result of multiple overlapping issues: structural misalignments, muscular dysfunction, and internal imbalances. And, we tailor our care to address your unique needs.
Our comprehensive chiropractic care includes:
• Thorough assessments to identify the true root causes of your pain
By: Dr. Michelle Binkowski DC, CMUA, CIME
• Precise chiropractic adjustments to correct spinal misalignments and restore joint function
• Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscular tension and improve mobility
• Cold laser therapy to decrease pain and promote quicker healing and recovery
• Lifestyle and ergonomic coaching to prevent future injury
• Custom shoe orthotics to help reestablish normal posture biomechanics and performance
• Nutritional guidance to reduce inflammation, chemical imbalances and provide the missing pieces as well as support the body's natural healing processes
• Brain Tap to decrease stress, improve memory and enhance sleep and relaxation
We don’t just treat symptoms, we empower your body to heal itself by removing barriers to wellness and restoring balance.
Experience Lasting Relief Naturally
If you’ve been living with pain and are tired of short-term fixes or masking symptoms with medications, chiropractic care may be your best next step. Our personalized, whole-body approach addresses both the mechanical and biochemical sources of pain, helping you move, feel, and live better.
Pain is optional, life is waiting for you!
Let us help you get back in action, naturally.
Back in Action is located at 5552 S Fort Apache Rd, Ste 110, Las Vegas, NV 89148. Call 702-970-4325 to book an appointment. Learn more at BIACLV.com and follow on Instagram @BackInActionChiroLV and on Facebook @Michelle Binkowski, DC.
A Key to Strength and Resilience THE POWER OF PROTEIN FOR BONE HEALTH
By John Wetzel
At OsteoStrong, we’re dedicated to helping you build stronger bones and a healthier body through innovative, science-backed approaches. While our osteogenic loading technology is a cornerstone of bone health, nutrition plays an equally vital role in supporting skeletal strength. Among the essential nutrients, protein stands out as a critical building block for maintaining and enhancing bone health. Let’s explore why protein is so important for your bones and how it can complement your OsteoStrong journey.
The Role of Protein in Bone Structure
Bones are often thought of as static, rigid structures, but they’re dynamic, living tissues that constantly undergo remodeling—a balance of breaking down old bone (resorption) and building new bone (formation). Protein is a fundamental component of this process. Approximately 50% of bone volume is made up of proteins, primarily collagen, which forms the flexible framework that gives bones their tensile strength. Collagen acts like the scaffolding of a building, providing structure while allowing bones to withstand stress and resist fractures.
Without adequate protein intake, the body struggles to produce and maintain this collagen matrix, leading to weaker bones that are more prone to fractures and conditions like osteoporosis. Protein also supports the production of other bone matrix proteins and growth factors, such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which stimulates osteoblasts (boneforming cells) to build stronger bone tissue.
Protein and Bone Remodeling
Bone health relies on a delicate balance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts (cells that break down bone). Protein intake influences this balance by providing the amino acids necessary for osteoblast activity. Studies show that higher protein diets are associated with increased bone mineral density (BMD), a key indicator of bone strength. For example, a 2017 meta-analysis in *The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition* found that higher protein intake was linked to improved BMD in older adults, particularly at the hip and spine—critical areas for fracture prevention.
Protein also supports muscle health, which is closely tied to bone strength. Strong muscles provide mechanical loading on bones, stimulating bone formation through a process called mechanotransduction. At OsteoStrong, our high-impact loading sessions amplify this effect, but adequate protein ensures your muscles have the raw materials to grow and recover, further supporting bone health.
Combating Age-Related Bone Loss
As we age, bone loss accelerates due to hormonal changes, reduced physical activity, and declining nutrient absorption. Protein becomes even more critical in this context. In older adults, inadequate protein intake can exacerbate sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) and osteoporosis, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. Research, such as a 2018 study in *Osteoporosis International*, suggests that protein supplementation in older adults can reduce bone loss and improve muscle function, lowering fracture risk.
For postmenopausal women, who face a higher risk of osteoporosis due to declining estrogen levels, protein is particularly important. It supports bone remodeling and helps mitigate the inflammatory processes that drive bone resorption. Combining a protein-rich diet with OsteoStrong’s targeted bone-loading sessions can create a powerful synergy to maintain bone density and resilience.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for adults, but emerging research suggests that older adults and those focused on bone health may benefit from higher intakes—around 1.0 to 1.2 grams per kilogram, or even up to 1.6 grams for active individuals or those recovering from injury. For a 150-pound (68 kg) person, this translates to roughly 68–109 grams of protein daily.
Quality matters as much as quantity. Opt for high-quality protein sources rich in essential amino acids, such as:
• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef)
• Fish (salmon, tuna, rich in omega-3s for anti-inflammatory benefits)
• Eggs (a complete protein with bone-supporting nutrients like vitamin D)
• Dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese, which also provide calcium)
• Protein supplements (whey, collagen, or plant-based powders for convenience)
Collagen peptides, in particular, have gained attention for their potential to directly support bone matrix formation. A 2018 study in *Nutrients* found that collagen supplementation improved BMD in postmenopausal women, making it a promising addition to a bone-healthy diet.
Protein and OsteoStrong: A Winning Combination
At OsteoStrong, our sessions are designed to stimulate bone growth through precise, high-impact loading that triggers osteogenesis. But without proper nutrition, the body lacks the building blocks to respond optimally to this stimulus. Protein provides the amino acids needed to repair and strengthen the bone matrix, ensuring that the mechanical stress from OsteoStrong sessions translates into denser, stronger bones.
Moreover, protein supports recovery after sessions, reducing muscle soreness and enhancing overall physical performance. By pairing a protein-rich diet with regular OsteoStrong visits, you can maximize your bone-building potential and maintain mobility and independence as you age.
Practical Tips for Boosting Protein Intake
1. Spread Protein Evenly: Aim to include protein in every meal to provide a steady supply of amino acids for bone and muscle repair.
2. Snack Smart: Choose protein-rich snacks like Greek yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, or a handful of almonds to meet daily needs.
3. Incorporate Variety: Mix animal and plant-based proteins to benefit from diverse nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium.
4. Consider Timing: Consuming protein after an OsteoStrong session or exercise can enhance muscle recovery and support bone health.
5. Consult a Professional: Work with a nutritionist to tailor protein intake to your age, activity level, and health goals.
A Stronger Future with Protein and OsteoStrong
Protein is more than just a muscle-builder—it’s a cornerstone of bone health, providing the structural foundation and cellular support needed for a resilient skeleton. By combining a protein-rich diet with OsteoStrong’s cutting-edge bone-strengthening technology, you’re investing in a future of strength, mobility, and vitality. Whether you’re aiming to prevent osteoporosis, recover from a fracture, or simply stay active, protein is your ally in building bones that stand the test of time.
Ready to take the next step? Visit OsteoStrong Las Vegas and pair our science-backed sessions with a protein-packed diet to unlock your body’s full potential. Your bones—and your future self—will thank you.
EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH MENOPAUSE
Connection, Education, and Support at the First Ever Menopause Fair
Menopause. It’s a phase of life every woman will face, but despite its inevitability, it’s still one of the most misunderstood and underdiscussed topics in women’s health. Too often, women are left to navigate perimenopause and menopause on their own, dismissed by medical professionals, and made to feel like they’re losing control of their own bodies. But it doesn’t have to be this way. That’s why Cherie Little and Jessica Waugh are hosting the Menopause Fair Las Vegas, the first-ever event of its kind in Las Vegas and Henderson, designed to empower women, create meaningful connections, and provide the support and education women deserve during this critical life transition.
A Safe, Supportive Space for Every Woman
The Menopause Fair brings together experts from various fields who specialize in women’s health during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Whether you're just starting to feel those first signs of change or you're deep into the menopause transition, this fair is a one-stop-shop for everything you need to thrive. They’ll have more than just that, they will feature 40 businesses centered around women, offering services and products that cater specifically to women's health and well-being. From estheticians offering skincare tips, to lifestyle practitioners focused on holistic health, to hormone doctors providing medical insights, and so much more, this event truly has it all. It’s a space where women can feel seen, heard, and understood. And it’s not just for women, it’s also for the partners, friends, and family members who want to better understand what their loved ones are going through and how they can support them. It’s time to break the stigma and bring everyone into the conversation.
A Personal Commitment: Empowering Women, Reclaiming Control
As women who have experienced the challenges of perimenopause firsthand, Jessica Waugh and Cherie Little are deeply committed to helping other women navigate this often-overlooked life stage. Jessica’s journey began when she started experiencing perimenopause at just 32. Despite subtle shifts in her body, she was often dismissed by medical professionals who told her symptoms like vaginal dryness and decreased libido were simply “normal” for women who had been in long-term relationships. These experiences pushed Jessica to take matters into her own hands by diving into research, earning certifications in health, wellness, and menopause care, and ultimately realizing that she wasn’t alone in her struggles.
For Cherie, her passion for helping women came from her years as a Family and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, where she saw an overwhelming need for menopause care. Recognizing the lack of specialized care for women going through menopause, Cherie created Xena Health, the only menopause-focused clinic in Las Vegas, where she provides holistic, evidence-based care. She is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care to help women not just manage symptoms, but thrive.
Together, Cherie and Jessica want to ensure no woman feels alone, dismissed, or like she’s going crazy during this era of life. Women are often told that their symptoms are “just a part of getting older,” but this is simply not true. If you've been told your symptoms are common or that your lab work is “normal”, but you still feel off, this fair is for you. Cherie and Jessica are here to provide the answers, the support, and the education to help you take back control of your health.
Cherie Little Jessica Waugh
Exhibitors: A Marketplace of Hormone-Supportive Products and Services
The Fair team is inviting local businesses that align with the mission of empowering women to join them as exhibitors. The Menopause Fair Las Vegas will feature 40 exhibitor tables from a range of businesses that support women’s health, from hormone-supportive products to lifestyle services that enhance overall well-being. Exhibitors will include wellness coaches, nutritional experts, fitness trainers, spa treatments, beauty services, and more.
Sponsorship Opportunities: Supporting Women, Supporting Local Business
The team is also seeking sponsors who want to support the mission of empowering women. Sponsorship can take many forms: financial contributions, in-kind donations (such as products for swag bags or beverages for attendees), or even sponsoring entertainment for the event. Every contribution will directly support the fair’s mission of creating a safe, welcoming, and educational space for women. As a sponsor, your brand will be featured in front of hundreds of community members, and you’ll be helping the Fair deliver a powerful, memorable event. If you're a business that believes in the power of women supporting women, they'd love to partner with you.
The Menopause Fair is a groundbreaking event that aims to break the silence around perimenopause and menopause. No longer will women feel dismissed, alone, or misunderstood. The organizers are creating a safe space for women to connect, learn, and support each other through this life transition, and they invite you to be a part of it.
Get Your Tickets Now
The Menopause Fair Las Vegas will be held on Saturday, October 11th, from 10 AM to 5 PM at Lotus Studio Events, 1470 Raiders Way, Henderson, Nevada 89052. Tickets are just $5, and women from all walks of life are invited to attend. Whether you’re seeking support, education, or simply a community of women who understand, this event is for you. Tickets are available at www.menopauselv.com.
Let’s break the silence. Let’s empower each other. Together, we will thrive in perimenopause and beyond.
LIGHT UP YOUR CELLS
The Power of Red, Green and Infrared Therapy
In the world of biohacking, we love things that work fast. But the truth is: real cellular change starts quietly—before we feel it, before we see it, before we even realize it’s working.
That’s where light therapy shines.
At Desert Moon Wellness, our ARRC light bed isn’t just about red light. It uses a synergistic combination of red, green, and infrared frequencies, pulsed with precision to activate your mitochondria and support your body’s natural repair processes.
The Science of Light: Why Frequencies Matter
• Red Light boosts mitochondrial energy (ATP) production
• Green Light supports skin health, inflammation balance, and nervous system regulation
• Infrared Light penetrates deeply to stimulate circulation and lymphatic detox
• Pulsed Light Delivery enhances penetration and cellular response
This isn’t just about looking better, it’s about healing from the inside out.
How We Use It
• Sessions start at 10–15 minutes, increasing as your body adapts
• Most people feel relaxed immediately, but the real changes are cellular and cumulative
• We recommend front-loading in the beginning: several sessions in a short timeframe to jumpstart the response
"Cellular change begins before results are visible. Patience and consistency are the real flex."
Personalized Light Sessions, Tailored to You
One of the most exciting aspects of our ARRC LED bed is the ability to customize your session based on your goals. From performance and brain optimization to calm, inflammation, and vitality, we choose the setting that matches your body’s needs that day.
Available session settings include:
• Calm
• Inflammation
• Brain
• Performance
• Wellness
• Energize
• Female Vitality
• Male Vitality
By: Janelle Ardizzone Desert Moon Wellness
Each setting adjusts the pulse and wavelength delivery to optimize light penetration and cellular response.
“We don’t just turn on the light. We will target it.”
Stack It for Greater Impact
This therapy pairs beautifully with our other core modalities:
• Before or after Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to improve oxygen utilization
• With PEMF by Pulse to enhance circulation and tissue recovery
• Stacked with NanoVi to support oxidative stress repair and cellular regeneration
• Layered with BrainTap or the Align Mat for nervous system balance
These aren’t just tools, they’re amplifiers. And light therapy is the perfect foundation.
Why Consistency Wins
Whether you’re using advanced tech or free daily practices, consistency is the true game-changer.
• Hydration, breath, sunlight, movement: foundational hacks anyone can use
• Light therapy: an accelerator for deep healing, performance, and longevity
"In healing, momentum matters. And light—like healing—is always ready when you are." ********
September Special: Light Up and Recharge
To celebrate the power of red, green, and infrared light, enjoy our limited-time Light Bed Intro Offer: First-time session: $30 (reg. $60)
Package special: 5 sessions for $225 (save $45)
Add to any stack for just $25
Ask the front desk or book online. Let your cells feel the shift.
LAS VEGAS
Ground Zero for the Rise of Risky Aesthetic Trends
By Melanie Speed, MSN, APRN, NP-C, CANS
A few months ago, two attendees of a well-known anti-aging and wellness conference in Las Vegas, were hospitalized after receiving peptide injections. Both experienced severe respiratory complications and were placed on ventilators. While the incident is now under investigation by ProPublica and local health officials, it has sparked renewed conversations about the growing popularity of advanced wellness treatments and the importance of ensuring they’re administered safely.
Built on conventions, tourism and one-of-a-kind experiences, Las Vegas has become a playground for the wellness-obsessed. High-end med spas and licensed clinics are pushing the industry forward, but they’re sharing the stage with pop-up injection booths and non-medical vendors who are more interested in quick cash than patient safety. And here’s the thing: without real oversight, even the trendiest “miracle” treatments can turn from glow-up to ER visit in record time.
Peptide injections themselves are not inherently dangerous. They are short chains of amino acids, naturally occurring in the body, that regulate everything from metabolism to hormone production. In clinical settings, specific peptides are used to promote fat loss, improve sleep, support injury recovery, and even enhance skin elasticity. According to a 2023 Frontiers in Aging study, patients using certain peptides under medical supervision saw improvements in muscle mass, body fat and insulin sensitivity over just 12 weeks. The global peptide therapeutics market is projected to exceed $64 billion by 2032, proof of growing interest in anti-aging and personalized medicine.
The issue here isn't science. It is the way that science is being stripped of safeguards in the rush to sell it as a quick fix. Reports of the conference incident indicate injections were offered on-site with little patient screening, no clarity on sourcing and no medical history review. These shortcuts are not just bad practice, they are dangerous. Even well-tolerated compounds can cause serious harm when improperly dosed, combined with other medications, or administered without sterile technique.
Las Vegas is uniquely vulnerable to this kind of gray-area wellness marketing. Our tourism-driven economy attracts thousands of attendees to health, fitness and anti-aging conventions every year. Many arrive eager to try the latest treatments, often in the moment, without the time or information to make an informed choice. For unlicensed or underqualified providers, that is an opportunity to cash in.
As a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Flawless Medspa in Las Vegas and The Beverly Hills Medspa in Beverly Hills, I’ve seen firsthand the fallout from unsafe aesthetic procedures. I have treated patients with infections from injections received at beauty parties, allergic reactions from mislabeled products and long-term complications from treatments sourced through non-medical channels. These outcomes are preventable. They happen when the line between marketing and medicine gets blurred.
Before agreeing to any injectable treatment, whether it is a wrinkle relaxer, dermal filler, or peptide therapy, patients need to slow down and ask the right questions. Is the provider licensed and are they practicing under a legally operating medical facility? Where is the product sourced from and is it coming from an FDA-approved compounding pharmacy? What are the possible side effects, both common and rare and how would the provider handle an adverse reaction? If you are not getting clear, specific answers, that is your signal to not walk, but run away.
Peptide therapy, when done correctly, can be a game changer. Patients see more energy, better sleep, improved muscle tone, enhanced skin quality and other benefits that contribute to long-term wellness. But these results come from individualized care plans built on lab testing, precise dosing and ongoing monitoring, not from a syringe handed out in a convention booth.
This recent incident is a reminder that just because something is trending does not mean it is safe. In fact, the most responsible trend we could start in Las Vegas is prioritizing health over hype. That means protecting patients by keeping advanced treatments in the hands of trained medical professionals who understand both the benefits and the risks.
As consumers, it is easy to get caught up in the promise of feeling younger, looking better, or getting results faster. But your health is not a souvenir. Before you let anyone put a needle in your body, know exactly who they are, what they are injecting, and how they will care for you if something goes wrong.
Las Vegas may be ground zero for the rise of risky aesthetic trends, but it can also be the city that leads the way in patient safety and ethical practice. The choice is ours.
BROOKLYN BOWL LAS VEGAS
>>> Biohacking with JohnXD
BFR (Blood Flow Restriction):
A Revolutionary Way to Exercise for Results
Welcome to another edition of Biohacking with JohnXD! In this issue, I’m excited to share a discovery that has profoundly impacted my biohacking and wellness journey, fundamentally changing my approach to fitness. Back in 2022, when we reopened OsteoStrong, I was focused on getting back into shape. As the owner of a biohacking center, I was always on the lookout for innovative modalities to support my goals. I was familiar with the traditional “no pain, no gain” exercise mentality but wanted to avoid the physical damage I’d experienced in the past. In April of that year, I met Dr. Mike, who introduced me to B3 Sciences BFR Bands. He explained that by simply wearing these bands, inflating them with air, and performing light exercise for 10-15 minutes, I could achieve significant results. Intrigued but skeptical, I couldn’t believe it could be that easy after years of intense Gold’s Gym routines, five to seven days a week. We tested them on my legs during simple air squats, and within a minute, I felt a noticeable burn. A few minutes later, after removing the bands, I experienced a unique sensation—like walking on a cloud, almost akin to a “runner’s high.” Despite this, I remained unconvinced.
What Are B3 Sciences BFR Bands?
B3 Sciences BFR Bands are patented, multi-air-chamber cuffs worn on the arms or legs during light exercise to safely restrict venous blood flow, promoting muscle growth, strength, and recovery with minimal joint strain. Backed by over 40 years of research, these bands trigger a natural release of growth hormone, replicating the effects of highintensity workouts in significantly less time, making them suitable for all fitness levels.
Fast forward to July 2022. Dr. Mike persistently encouraged me to give the bands another try. With their 30-day money-back guarantee, I figured I had nothing to lose. At the time, I weighed around 230 pounds with 27% body fat and wasn’t feeling my best. I had access to an elliptical, recumbent bike, resistance bands, free weights, and a Total Gym, but lacked the motivation and time for traditional workouts. On August 4, 2022, I committed to using the BFR Bands fully for the first time. I did a simple resistance band workout targeting my triceps and chest, and in under 15 minutes, my arms were burning intensely. It was a different kind of burn—one that reminded me of heavy gym sessions and left me thinking, “This is going to hurt tomorrow!” But the next day, I woke up with no debilitating soreness, just a pleasant sense of muscle engagement. This was a game-changer, as it meant I could work out again that same day.
I did exactly that, using the bands while walking in the park. The burn in my legs was precisely what I’d been seeking, and it took so little time. That day, I called Dr. Mike and joined the company as a founder, eager to
be part of this transformative movement and help others experience the benefits.
From that point on, I got creative. The bands made every activity more effective and efficient, delivering remarkable results—a biohacker’s dream. Simple activities like hiking or climbing stairs became powerful workouts. The Total Gym and resistance bands were an excellent starting point, offering a variety of exercises accessible to nearly anyone. I then purchased a vibration plate, which became one of my favorite biohacks. Combining vibration with BFR enhanced circulation and strength in an incredible way. As a dedicated biohacker, I experimented further, using the bands while playing virtual reality games like Beat Saber with weighted gloves or wrist weights. The results were impressive. Taking it up a notch, I stood on the vibration plate while using BFR and playing VR games. With no prior data to confirm its effectiveness, I conducted my own experiment and was thrilled to find it worked exceptionally well. It remains one of my favorite ways to exercise. I also incorporated virtual boxing, which improved hand-eye coordination while providing a fantastic workout. The key, I’ve learned, is finding activities you enjoy, as you’re more likely to stick with them. I continue to explore new ways to use B3 BFR Bands to this day.
Currently, I weigh 185-190 pounds with 11-13% body fat, according to my InBody scale, and I never work out without my BFR Bands. I recommend them to anyone who wants to avoid heavy lifting and joint strain while still building muscle and burning fat. Thanks to Dr. Mike’s vision, B3 Sciences BFR Bands have transformed my fitness journey. If you’re looking to lose weight, get in shape, build muscle, or simply feel better, these bands are worth exploring. They could be the biohacking breakthrough you’ve been searching for.
Follow JohnXD on the Biohacking Las Vegas YouTube for the NeuralCheck results and more biohacking adventures! John XD is the founder of Biohacking Las Vegas. The group holds monthly meetings which are free to attend. For more information, visit biohackinglv.com and follow them on Instagram @biohackinglasvegas. Connect with John XD on Instagram @johnxd247.
WHEN THE WORLD FEELS HEAVY, REACH FOR COLOR >>> Simple ways to let color restore balance and
guide you back to yourself
Every week in my coaching practice, I hear a version of the same question: “How do I stay centered when the world feels so heavy?” My clients are smart, compassionate people who want to show up for their families, communities, and careers. However, uncertainty of our times often leaves them feeling drained, reactive, or disconnected from themselves and from a sense of being able to make a difference in the world.
When everything outside feels unstable, we need accessible practices that help us reconnect with our core selves. One of the simplest and most overlooked tools for doing that is color. It may seem decorative, but it is also medicine, a mirror, and a map. The colors we surround ourselves with can restore balance when we feel scattered, offer comfort when emotions run high, and spark motivation when hope feels dim. Before I was taught the magic of color, I prided myself on being the person whose closet was a spectrum of black clothes with accents here and there.
However, my relationship with color deepened thanks to my friend Bernard Charles, aka The Chromamystic, behind The Color Mage Oracle. Bernard showed me that color is not just aesthetic but energy, guidance, and an invitation to see a shift of perspective in any situation.
When I first studied Bernard’s Color Mage Oracle, I expected to learn about chakras or perhaps the psychology of red versus blue. What I didn’t expect was the way it awakened my intuition. Bernard taught me that every color carries stories, symbolism, and energy that transcend cultures and centuries. Color is a language we already know in our bones, even if we’ve forgotten how to listen. That realization opened me to seeing color as a mirror of what I was feeling on the inside, and as a tool to shift the energy around me when the outside world felt chaotic.
When I first trained with Bernard, he invited me to see beyond the surface. Each card in the deck carries not only a shade but also a message, a reminder that color has always been part of human
language. From the red as a representation of relationships and passion, or pink as a reflection of a gentle kind of love. Bernard’s brilliance is in teaching us how to bring those timeless associations into the present moment as a compass when life feels uncertain. Instead of dismissing this relationship to color as random, Bernard encouraged me to treat them as intuitive signals pointing toward what I might need.
I began experimenting: wearing different shades to see how they influenced my mood, journaling about the colors that felt most present each day, and even meditating with a candle of a specific hue. Slowly, I noticed that color didn’t just reflect my state of being, it actively shaped it. A light blue bedspread and room accents helped me feel calm at the start and end of my day. A bright orange notebook sparked creativity when I felt stuck. Randomly buying myself soft pink flowers reminded me to be kind to myself.
By noticing, choosing, and working with color, we can shift not only how we feel but also how we show up in the world. This practice became This Journal Is Your Mood Ring. At first glance, it might seem lighthearted and playful like the mood rings we wore as kids. Color can be a shorthand for emotions we can’t always name with words.
Thinking about my clients, an entry from my book, Tumbleweed, always feels like a good reflection to share. It represents the feeling of being lost and evokes the image of being carried by the wind, directionless and depleted. Selecting this color in the journal suggests the reader might be feeling lost, but is ready to find direction in what makes them feel fulfilled. When we get to the root of what makes us happy, we gain a new outlook on life. To shift out of this feeling, the call to action is to make a list of things that make you happy and return to this list to reconnect with your inner truth and compass.
However, you don’t need an oracle card or journal to see the shift of perspective through color.
By Ilona Pamplona
How to See Color (Everywhere)
Color is woven everywhere in life. Start looking here:
Closet: Which pieces you reach for on hard days (comfort colors) vs. brave days (activation colors).
Home accents: Bedding, towels, mugs, candles—the microenvironment shaping your nervous system.
Food: Cravings often carry color-coded messages (greens for renewal, oranges for zest and creativity).
Sky + light: Dawn’s soft gold, midday white, twilight indigo—each cues a different mood.
Screens: Your phone wallpaper, app themes, presentation decks— what palette are you leaning on?
Nature & seasons: Seasonal palettes can harmonize (or clash) with your current state.
Language: “Feeling blue,” “green light,” “in the red”—our idioms reveal unconscious color stories.
Body cues: Notice imagery that pops up during breathwork or meditation (trust that the first color that arrives is where you get to inquire).
Spend one day simply noticing. No fixing, no judging—just “I notice…”
How to Inquire With Color
You can use prompts to translate a color into insight. Here are some examples.
If today had a color, it would be __ because…
Which color am I avoiding—and why might I need it?
What color do I crave when I’m overwhelmed? What does that color offer me?
Which memory does this color pull forward? Is there guidance in that memory?
If my boundary had a color, it would be…
If my purpose had a color today, it would be…
Which colors would bring me back to center right now?
What tiny action would honor this color’s message in the next hour?
Write freely for 3–5 minutes per question and try to listen for direction, not perfection.
From Color to Action : A Mini Playbook
Here are a few suggested actions to turn those insights into steps if you don’t know where to start:
• If you’re anxious (seeing pale blue or lavender):
Do: 3 minutes of “color breathing”—inhale blue, exhale purple.
Wear: A nazar bracelet to remind you of your safety.
Place: A lavender essential oils on your desk as a mindful calm cue.
• If you’re stuck (craving orange):
Do: A 10-minute “orange sprint”—creative brain dump with a bright notebook.
Wear: Orange socks or lipstick to signal play.
Place: A citrus candle near your workspace.
• If you need boundaries (drawn to green or earthy brown):
Do: Write a one-sentence boundary in your notes app.
Wear: A leather item that feels structured.
Place: A green stone by your keyboard as a visual reminder of your worthiness.
• If you’re calling purpose forward (yellow or red):
Do: Name one aligned micro-action (email, pitch, or page).
Wear: A red ring/pendant to remind you of all you are capable of.
Place: A yellow highlighter to make your decisions stand out.
In times like these, it’s easy to feel powerless. What I’ve learned is that the smallest shifts can be the most profound. Something as simple as choosing to surround yourself with a healing color can change not only how you feel, but also how you show up in the world.
So the next time you feel the heaviness of the world pressing in, ask yourself: What color do I need right now? Trust that answer. Wrap yourself in it, breathe it in, or write it down. Let it guide you back to your truest self.
If this article sparked curiosity about exploring your relationship with color, consider taking the next step. The Chromamystic has various offers to explore the power of color and find a new way to see the world.
Ilona Pamplona is an author, life coach, and astrology/human design educator with an M.A. in Wellness Coaching. She combines traditional coaching theories with transformative tools to help professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives find clarity and overcome limiting beliefs. Author of This Journal is Your Mood Ring and the upcoming Human Design Made Easy, Ilona guides clients in reconnecting with their inner selves and achieving their highest potential.
Practical Ways OT Supports Whole-Person Health OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AND WELLNESS
By Anna, OTR/L – The Self-Care OT
Wellness is everywhere — but it’s often framed as luxury, a trend, or a quick fix. Occupational therapy (OT) takes a different approach. OT focuses on function, routines, and sustainable health, helping people engage in meaningful activities that improve daily life.
What Is Occupational Therapy?
OT is an allied health profession founded in the early 20th century on the idea that meaningful activity promotes health and healing. Emerging during World War I and the mental hygiene movement, OT combined medicine, psychology, arts, and social reform to help people recover physically, emotionally, and socially.
Wellness in OT is not just about curing illness, it’s about preserving function, purpose, and participation in daily life.
OT practitioners use evidence-based, holistic approaches to help people regulate, recover, and thrive, blending healthcare with lifestyle practices, habits, and environmental strategies.
Why OT Matters for Daily Life
Occupational therapists help people engage in the occupations that matter most.
Enjoyable activities: Bowling with friends, getting dressed up, working out.
OT helps people make decisions and adjustments in everyday life that enhance wellness and participation, from improving sleep routines to modifying workspaces or integrating therapeutic activities like yoga or breathwork.
The Self-Care OT asks: “Do the things you do each day support or drain your health, balance, and joy?”
OT Modalities for Wellness
Occupational therapy offers a diverse toolbox that blends traditional therapy with lifestyle, sensory, and environmental strategies. Here are some approaches The Self-Care OT uses to support wellness:
OT focuses on the whole person, not just isolated interventions. While fitness classes or apps offer tools, OT combines:
• Evidence-based modalities
• Personalized assessment and goal-setting
• Functional strategies that help people do what matters most
OT emphasizes skill transfer, so lessons learned in therapy are applied in real life — whether at home, work, or socially.
Key Takeaways
• Wellness through OT is not a trend or quick fix.
• OT combines science, lifestyle, and holistic practices to support balance, function, and meaningful participation.
• Every intervention — from routines to sensory strategies to equine assisted therapy — is designed to improve quality of life.
Occupational therapists have been quietly mastering wellness for over a century — helping people not just survive, but truly live.
What sets OT apart is its flexibility and person-centered approach. Each strategy can be tailored to your unique needs, goals, and daily life — whether that’s adjusting routines, incorporating sensory supports, or integrating mindbody practices.
The Self-Care OT meets you where you are, helping you design practical, sustainable wellness strategies that fit your life, enhance independence, and increase your overall sense of balance and joy.
Anna is an occupational therapist and founder of The Self-Care OT, PLLC in Las Vegas. She specializes in OT-informed self-care and wellness for everyday people navigating burnout—through education, advocacy, and community. You can find her on Instagram and TikTok @ the_selfcare_ot, on Facebook, or catch her at local pop-ups and events around the valley.
>>> WRITING WITH MERMAIDS Creative Guidance from Polly Superstar
By Shwa Laytart
You have a story to tell. You want your voice to be heard. But the distance between your mind and putting the words on paper feels like a daunting task. Writers and aspiring writers wonder how best to tell stories. How best to create the methods to manifest these stories in words. How do we do what we do so that readers enjoy, and become inspired by, the words we put on paper. How do we polish our craft so that we write something we love, but also loved by our readers?
Usually, this question is followed up with vague and basic answers. Write nonstop, read daily, and live life to the fullest. Maybe then, you grasp that concept of what it means to write. Maybe then, you can guide yourself and your writing to create a tale that transcends both you and those who consume your words.
Often the guidance we receive is less inspirational and more forceful on someone else's experiences, and not our own. Which leads many of us to look for an alternative writing group. A collective that is focused on the writer’s experience and not just the technique. An inspirational writing group that doesn’t cage us, but sets us free.
Allow me to suggest Writing With Mermaids. Writing With Mermaids is not a writing workshop. There are no prompts, and they don’t direct you to specific topics. Instead, the host, Polly Superstar, helps you unleash your memory and imagination to tune into your authentic story. Inspired by water, Polly uses breath and guided visualizations to flush out creative channels. Together, the collective uses their imaginations to watch as the creativity bubbles rise to the surface. No stranger to writing, spoken-word, and group inspiration, Polly uses the process for their personal writing practice to invoke the writer in all of us. Instead of notes, prompts, and clutter, we are guided to empty the mind and discover the story floating in the void.
These friendly online writing sessions focus on community building and overcoming writing anxiety. The meetings invoke the spirit of storytelling, participants connect in their bodies and with breath. With guided visualization, they find the story within you that wants to be told. They write together, and then share in a supportive environment.
Dedicate two hours to your writing craft, as you practice and prioritize your creative process. You'll experience amazing breakthroughs while taking your skills to the next level.
These weekly two-hour online writing sessions center works of gender rebellion, LGBTQA+, polyamory, kink, sex workers, sluts, anti-racism, and neuro-spice. If you’re a writer who has struggled to find a writing community where you don’t feel othered or shamed for your orientation, expression, identity, or lifestyle, Polly can relate.
This network of care allows the writers’ voices to be heard. Your words have power. It’s important that you are not silenced.
The Flow
• Meet your fellow mermaids
• Grounding, arriving, breathing
• Invocation to the storyteller
• Guided visualization to show you a path to your story
• Time to write
• Read your writing to fellow mermaids (no pressure to share)
• Say farewell until next time!
Registration and more information for the Writing With Mermaids Online Writing Sessions and In-Person Retreats visit withmermaids.com You will not be disappointed.
A NEW SHOPPING HABIT
That’s Making Me Wealthy
Back in high school, boredom sent us to the mall.
We’d roam in little packs, ducking in and out of stores, pulling outfits off racks like we owned them. In the dressing rooms, we’d spin in front of the mirror, swapping tops, debating whether the skirt was totally bitchin’ or grody (I was an 80’s So Cal kid).
The fun was pretending we were rich and could afford to buy everything. We’d imagine walking out with the whole lot - like we were starring in our own teen movie makeover scene. And then - right at the last minute - we’d leave it all behind and ditch our shopping cart.
There was a strange little rush in that final act. All the pretending, all the trying-on, all the imagining… and then walking away like it was nothing.
It wasn’t some enlightened act of self-control. We just didn’t have money. Teens didn’t carry debit cards, there was no tap-to-pay, and my parents were cash-only when it came to shopping. Unless I begged for some pocket money, I had no spending power. Leaving the cart wasn’t a financial strategy - it was the only option when the coins in your pocket could barely buy an Auntie Anne’s pretzel at the food court.
Fast-forward to now. The thrill of wandering has been replaced by the quick flick of a thumb. I can scroll from the couch and visit twenty stores without moving more than two fingers on my right hand. And this time, the cart isn’t pretend - it’s one click and sometimes hours away from my front door.
That convenience is a trap. A full Amazon cart doesn’t disappear when you walk away. It sits there like a needy ex, reminding you that you could wake up tomorrow to a cardboard box of bubble-wrapped, cushioned-packed happiness if you just click “Buy Now.”
For a while, I was sucked in.
Temu! Shein! Amazon! BOGO! Flash sale! Free shipping if I just added one more thing. I wasn’t shopping because I needed anything - I was shopping because it gave me something fun to do. The high would hit as soon as, “Thank you for your order” flashed on the screen.
Two years ago, I had what I now call The Temu Incident. Over thirty items in one haul - high heels, dresses, random accessories that looked charming online. The moment I ripped open the bags, the thrill vanished. I was left with a pile of chemically-smelling polyester that fit my cat better than it fit me and a $0.26 hair clip that broke during shipping.
One afternoon, I stood in my closet and took it all in. Shelves of things I didn’t like, didn’t fit right, and some that I didn’t even remember buying. It didn’t look like a wardrobe. I deleted shopping apps, unsubscribed from marketing texts, and stopped “just browsing” online. The habit faded, but something in me still wanted the thrill of acquiring something.
Why “Spend Less” Doesn’t Always Work
I’d tried the classic advice. Experts like Dave Ramsey will tell you to just “spend less.” Tighten the belt. Cut up the cards. Shop only for what you need.
But if shopping has turned into a full-blown habit - or even an addictionthat’s like telling an alcoholic to “just drink less.” On paper, it’s simple. In real life, it’s like trying to hold your breath forever.
For some of us, the problem isn’t just the money leaving our bank accounts. It’s the hit of excitement, the dopamine rush, the tiny moment of control in an otherwise chaotic day. That’s why willpower alone feels like swimming against the tide.
And while therapy or addiction recovery programs can help, not everyone has the money or access to get that kind of support. Sometimes it’s easier to redirect the behavior into something that won’t wreck your finances - or your self-respect - while you work on the deeper stuff.
I didn’t want another shirt or gadget. I wanted something that would last. Something that would feel as good in ten years as it did the day I got it.
That’s when I started looking at gold and silver.
Not Just for Pirates and Billionaires
Like most people, I used to picture precious metals as pirate loot or something locked in a billionaire’s vault. I didn’t realize how ordinary and accessible they really are.
Gold and silver are finite - you can’t make more just because you feel like it. They’re physical, solid in your hand. They’ve been valued across every culture for thousands of years.
History is littered with stories of how metals have outlasted empires and currencies. Gold coins traveled the Silk Road in the 8th century, moving between merchants, warriors, and kings. In the American West, silver was so trusted that miners would trade it directly for supplies, no paper money needed. In ancient Egypt, gold wasn’t just a symbol of wealth, it was considered the flesh of the gods, immortal and untarnished.
Even in modern times, when economies wobble, metals hold their ground. The 2008 financial crisis sent stock markets crashing, but gold prices surged as people looked for something that felt safe.
Unlike clothes, gadgets, or even some investments, gold and silver don’t evaporate in value the second you bring them home. They don’t depend on a company’s earnings report, a country’s stability, and the government can’t just print more gold. They endure, untouched by trends, headlines, or politics.
(Disclosure: This is not investment advice - just what I’ve learned while building my own stack.)
Begin Your Stack for the Price of Dinner
The best part? You don’t need to be rich to start. For the price of a nice dinner out, you can walk away with an ounce of silver. Skip a few impulse buys and you can add a 1 gram gold round to your collection.
And here’s the thing, you don’t have to buy bars or coins. Precious metals can be wearable too. A gold chain, a silver cuff, or a pair of earrings can serve double duty: holding their intrinsic value while letting you enjoy them every day. Unlike a designer handbag that loses half its value
By Jaden Rae
the moment you carry it out of the store, well-made jewelry often holds its worth, or even appreciates over time, while giving you the pleasure of wearing your investment.
If you go the jewelry route, treat it like an asset, not just an accessory. Look for high-purity gold (22k or 24k) or sterling/fine silver, and always check the weight so you know how it compares to the current market price. Skip plated pieces - they have almost no resale value - and stick to timeless designs that won’t lose appeal. Keep receipts or appraisals for anything substantial, so if you ever decide to sell, you can prove both its purity and weight.
My first time buying precious metals, I walked into Desert Diamond Jewelers on Eastern and 215. My husband had known owners Bill and his wife Andreia for over 25 years. Their teenage son also works at the shop, making this truly a family operated business.
Bill placed a ten-ounce silver slab in my palm. It was heavier than I expected, cool and smooth against my skin. I tilted it under the light, watching the fine grooves catch and glint. For the first time in years, I was spending money without the creeping feeling that I’d regret it later.
The Ritual of Stacking
Now, once a month, I make the same trip.
It’s become a quiet ritual. There’s no rush of notifications, no tracking number to obsess over. Just the steady satisfaction of knowing that with every visit, I’m building instead of leaking wealth.
The shift has been bigger than I expected. When I see an $80 coat, I think about how that’s two ounces of silver. The coat will wear out. The silver will still be here - and most likely increase in value. That simple mental shift has cut my impulse buying to a fraction of what it used to be.
Money Is Your Life Energy
Wealth, I’ve learned, isn’t just about what sits in a bank account. It’s about being intentional with money that was traded for my life energy. And it’s about protecting it from the slow leak of rising prices.
Five years ago, $100 in my bank account would buy what $84 buys today. The $100 dress in my closet is now worth maybe $10 on eBay. But $100 in silver from five years ago? Today it’s worth nearly $140.
I’ve swapped the instant buzz of cardboard boxes on my porch for the slow satisfaction of a little pile of stability and growing wealth in my safe. The thrill is still there, but now it carries weight…literally.
Jaden Rae is a Las Vegas resident, best-selling author of the Microdosing Guide And Journal, and founder of American Farmacy, a modern apothecary that empowers people to take control of their own health using Earth’s original medicines. She is also a two-time best-selling cookbook author, television chef and has been featured on the Today Show, The Early Show, Martha Stewart Radio, Fox Business News and more. You can find her on Instagram at @steamykitchen and @amfarmacy.
MODE SALON
Celebrates 10 Years of Beauty & Community
As we mark our 10th anniversary, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey.
To our incredible team of hairstylists, nail technicians, and estheticians—your talent, dedication, and passion have shaped Mode Salon into the thriving, creative space it is today.
And to our amazing clients—thank you for your loyalty, trust, and continued support over the years. You are the heart of everything we do.
We’re also proud and honored to share that Mode Salon has been awarded “City of North Las Vegas Certificate of Recognition.” This recognition means the world to us and fuels our passion to keep raising the bar.
Here’s to the past 10 years—and to many more beautiful ones ahead!
With gratitude, Jennifer Warner
COOKING WITH CHEF CHRIS Salt-Free Series: A "Nobel" Dinner
I hope you enjoyed last month’s recipe. This one is dedicated to a friend of mine, Dr. Stanley B. Prusiner and his family . I had the opportunity to spend time with Stanley, picking his brain, so to say. Speaking with his daughter Helen and her fiance about his accolades. Then speaking about the sciences we both studied through the years plus what a prion is and his discovery of it. Even, the usage of a Cryo-Electron Microscope or CRYO-EM for short, and talking about the zipper effect in the brain and how to stop a protein molecule from folding onto itself. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1997 for discovering the cause of ‘Mad Cow Disease.’ Our conversation transpired while walking through the Tahoe City Marina into its farmer’s market before having breakfast with Larry Ruvo and others. Feeling inspired by his incredible journey, I created his supper before he left. Now, I will share it with you. Included below will be a source so you may give a good read, about a great man and his accomplishments… Let’s get to it!
*Required Reading*
By: Chef Chris Rodarte
After that, peel off the skin of the squash and cut in half the entire length. Use a spoon to remove seeds easily. Cut into squares and place half into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle all the smoked Dukkah (*modify by adding ½ cup extra pistachio and walnuts) into a bowl,add some grapeseed oil and mix. Put it to the side. Take the other half and cook in the oven at 400° F for 10 minutes. Then, put the other seasoned squash in the oven for 15 minutes. Two things at once. While the squash is hot, use a food processor or blender and add the squash, oat milk and Aleppo pepper. Blend. If too thin, put on the stove at a low/medium and reduce. Making sure to stir. Once thickened, put to the side.
My Egypt by Michael Mina (I modified a recipe from it)
Ingredients
1 bag of fresh spinach
1 butternut squash
2 oz smoked Dukkah (no salt)
2 oz Baharat seasoning (no salt)
2 oz. Aleppo pepper (fresh ground)
1 bottle Enzo lemon oil
1 bottle grape seed oil
4 oz oat milk
1 filet of Faroe Island salmon (cut into 8oz pcs)
How to Make
First, start by preparing your fish. On a small tray, sprinkle both sides with your Baharat seasoning. *Modify by adding 1 tsp of smoked paprika into the Baharat recipe. Then cover the entire pan with plastic and put it into the fridge.
Take your spinach and sauté it with some lemon oil over medium heat. Check your roasted squash. If you can push a fork into it, it's ready. Grab your fish and place into a pan with lemon oil on medium. Cook for 4-5 minutes and then go directly into the oven to finish. Making sure all other ingredients are hot.
Take the fish out after 4 minutes and begin plating. Start with your spinach as seen in the picture. Then the filet of fish, drizzle your squash puree over it and top with a tab of your Smoked Dukkah squash ‘butter’ tab. There you have it! You just recreated a delicious meal that I had the honor of creating for an amazing individual who is still to this day trying to find a way to combat the degradation of the brain itself. Larry Ruvo and family gave me ‘My Egypt’ at Christmas. I'm happy to have used its contents to design this dish.
For more information on this incredible man's journey… Stanley B. Prusiner - https://share.google/9Ov1KLaYh1rvMezgy
Chef Chris Rodarte is a multi-talented Chef and has cooked for some amazing people. Recipient of a Certificate of Achievement from The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and a Special Congressional Award from The US Senate. Thanks Jacky! Look for more on social media. If you like this recipe please give a like and follow, it helps: Instagram: @chef_chris_ rodarte, Facebook: @Chef Chris Rodarte & @Christopher Rodarte.
Shoot For The Stars, Because The Sky’s Not The LImit! Wait till you see what happens next….
THE TEMPLE RADIANCE LIFESTYLE with Gia
Sometimes I look back at what I’ve written here and think I’m convincing people of how magical they are. It’s like one day I decided that if Thoth can build the pyramids with consciousness, then I can build a better @ss. So I set out on a journey to see how much I can do by just, well, using my consciousness. I’m 55. I don’t want to work out every day. I don”t want to go to classes, I don’t even want to read books as much. I don’t want to shovel vitamins down my throat followed my seamoss and shots of wheatgrass. Not to mention the superfoods, match, maca, beet root, juices, smoothies, diets, apps, plans, 10 step this, 5 step that. Watch my podcast this and follow me here blah blah blah.
When we talk about a blueprint this is what we mean. YOU know what your temple needs. We have to block out the projections from all the people that we have given unnecessary authority over. Time to evict those shoulds, woulds and what ifs. Try living in real time. Just take one step of joy, let it guide you to the next and so on. The blueprint of your divinity - yes, this, well, it runs on joy. Find joy in the mundane and you’ll never have another care in the world. Let your YES be a real YES, and let your No’s fall into place. Let your joy move you, sway you, let joy be the first smell when you open your eyes, and the last blink of velvet when you close them at night. You will be led to things that defy logic. So, probably best to leave logic right here at the end of this paragraph.
You don’t need the mushrooms, Yes, and, your joy will be your compass. Enjoy your joy. And by all means, do the mushrooms. Hehehehehe.
Gia Kubik helps individuals evolve their consciousness. Temple Radiance is a lifestyle that supports living from our original blueprint of perfection; our divinity. Gia is a Midwife of Remembrance. Temple Radiance will increase your core vibration, and you will align with your infinite potential. Come explore a call with me. IG - @Gia.Kubik www.Giakubik.com.
Sip Tea with Saba
What's the Tea on: Moringa
The statements in this editorial are simply for informational purposes, entertainment, and objective research and do not represent the views or policies of the publication, or any other organization with which the author may be affiliated. They are also not to be viewed as personal medical care, but rather for the purpose of general knowledge. The author is not a medical professional. The reader is strongly encouraged to speak to his/her own physician for medical advice.
What’s the Tea on Moringa Oleifera?
Our story begins in the cradle of civilization, where there stood a tree unlike any other. It was a slender, elegant being with delicate feathery leaves and pods that dangled like twisted drumsticks. The locals knew it not just as a plant, but as a living gift- a remedy, a sustenance, a whispered secret passed down through the generations. They called it The Miracle Tree and its legend was about to journey across continents and centuries. I feel so thankful to have been a receiver of this whisper as I learned about this plant while I was living in Ethiopia in 2012 and it was all the rave around Africa, the Caribbean, and amongst health nuts in the West (before herbs and wellness lifestyles were all the social media craze).
The Tree of Endless Gifts
drought resistant plant).
Actual Plant Protein?
To understand its power, we must look closer, past the history and into the bioactivity within the plant. The leaves of the moringa tree are a veritable goldmine of nutrients. A powerhouse of essential vitamins, including a remarkable amount of Vitamin C (far more than orange), a wealth of Vitamin A from beta- carotene. Rich in the foundational B vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, which are crucial for our body’s daily function. While this is a lot to discover within a single plant, one of the most shocking discoveries in modern science is that Moringa leaf is also a source of high-quality protein! It is a rare find in a plant, complete with all the essential amino acids needed to build and repair our bodies. Imagine a single plant containing the very building blocks of life. For those seeking plant-based nutrition, Moringa is a hero. I have been thrilled to be able to offer moringa leaf in one of our newest herbal tea blends called, The Best Day. It is a tropical mix with mango and moringa, and this combo offers the beautiful reminder that all we have is now, so regardless of circumstances, it is The Best Day.
More Calcium than Milk & More Iron than Spinach?
So back to the start with the Egyptians as they were occupied by the ancient Romans and then Greeks, they saw this tree as a treasure trove. From its seeds, a luminous oil was extracted, light and fragrant, commonly called “Ben Oil”. This precious liquid was more than just a luxury, it was a staple for perfumers, a lubricant for machinery, and a balm to protect skin from the harsh desert sun. In the fertile lands of India, the tree’s tale took on an even deeper significance. With the texts of Ayurveda, its leaves were documented as a cure for over 300 ailments, a panacea for the body and spirit. The mighty warriors of the Maurian Empire, would use extracts from the leaves believing it would grant them the power to endure pain and strength. The very name Moringa is from the Tamil language (Dravidian language native to South India and Sri Lanka) which described its “twisted pod”, while “oleifera” was a nod from the Romans, a term for “bearer of oil”. This tree serves as a living bridge between cultures, its roots spreading across the globe, reaching Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Americas, where it took on new names and new roles in the lives of the people. Moringa then and even now serves as a symbol of nourishment, a silent guardian against famine, offering its bounty during the leanest of times (as Moringa is a
The story doesn’t end there. If you consume it in the form of a powder, the leaves are also a good source of dietary fiber, while the seeds, though less known, are a reservoir of healthy fats, particularly oleic acid. The tree’s gifts extend to a profound mineral profile. It offers more calcium than milk and more iron than spinach, making it a champion for bone and blood health. Studies have shown its high iron content, a beacon of hope against anemia. It’s also packed with potassium, a silent worker in regulating blood pressure, along with magnesium and zinc, the quiet conductors of countless bodily processors. Across the world (even in our own City of Las Vegas) organizations are working to combat “hidden hunger” which is a silent malnutrition amongst people young and old due to a devastating lack of micronutrients. This issue plagues billions- and moringa tree is not just a plant, it is a solution as a vessel of nourishment.
Bioactive Compounds of The Miracle Tree
Modern science, with its sterile labs and rigorous studies, have been captivated by the secrets of this ancient tree. It’s not just folklore, its therapeutic properties are rooted in powerful bioactive compounds. Some of these phytochemicals include flavonoids, like quercetin and
kaempferol, the bodyguards that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, providing a shield against chronic disease. Then come the phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid, which support its antioxidant power and help in managing blood pressure. However, perhaps most intriguing compounds are the isothiocyantates, the unsung heroes of the moringa story. These sulfur-containing molecules are under intense study for their potential to fight cancer, repel microbes, and quell inflammation, validating centuries of traditional use. Without boring you by continuing this list, researchers have confirmed it shows promise in protecting the liver and heart. Some studies hint at its ability to help manage sugar, suggesting its future role in combating diabetes. Its seeds have even shown the power to inhibit the growth of the common bacteria, like staphylococcus aureus. While some of these discoveries are still in their early stages awaiting confirmation from human trials, they lend a serious, scientific weight to the ancient legends of the “miracle tree”.
Countless studies, both in laboratories and on animal subjects, have been conducted, each one unravelling another layer of the moringa tree’s potential.
How to Integrate it into Your Diet
Finally, we return to the kitchen, where some cultures utilize the plant as a culinary delight. The leaves are cooked like spinach adding a boost of nutrients to soups and stews. The pods are beloved in South Asian cuisine and serve as a star ingredient in curries and sambars. Even the flowers are edible, and the roots offer a taste reminiscent of horseradish. Though honestly, I find drinking my High Tech Healing tea one of the most effective ways to get it into my body, consistently. During the summer I have been drinking it as an iced tea in my Stanley tumbler. However it also is efficient as a vibrant green powder as a supplement for smoothies (though somewhat bitter in taste- hence the emphasis on the mango balance my tea provides).
Keeps on Giving
Since we said this plant keeps on giving, please believe it also has industrial purposes. A centuries old tradition was using the crushed seeds as a remarkable water purification. They act as a natural filter causing impurities to clump together and sink, leaving behind cleaner drinking water. Farmers feed the leaves to their livestock, and homes around the world still use it in various remedies to treat fever, soothe headaches, and even help new mothers produce more milk!
From a whisper in the ancient world to a shout in the modern one, the story of the moringa tree is a testament to the power of nature. A Reminder of the Divine Design™: Some of the greatest physical treasures are found not in a vault or on a digital screen, but in the humble, life-giving soil of our earth. To try moringa leaf in a palatable form, as a hot or iced tea, visit High Tech Healing at the Downtown Summerlin Saturday farmers market every week or online at www.hightechhealing.org
Sarah Schwefel
PLANT MAGIC & MEDICINE
Health >>>
Parasites: The Silent Killers of Your
Parasites are more than just a gross thought, they’re silent killers of your health. These microscopic (and sometimes not-so-microscopic) invaders don’t just cause stomach trouble, they can weaken your immune system, inflame your gut, and trigger a cascade of health problems that doctors rarely connect to the root cause. Research is showing links between chronic parasitic infections and autoimmune conditions like MS, Hashimoto’s, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as a higher risk of certain cancers. Why? Parasites thrive by suppressing your immune response, stealing your nutrients, and producing toxic waste that keeps your body in a constant state of inflammation. Left unchecked, they create the perfect environment for disease to take hold, all while staying hidden in plain sight. And here’s the truth most people don’t want to hear: if you have pets, drink tap water, eat sushi, travel, or simply live on Earth, you have parasites.
Top 20 Most Overlooked Signs You Might Have Parasites
• Chronic fatigue or feeling “tired but wired”
• Digestive issues — bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea
• Food sensitivities or unexplained allergies
• Skin problems — eczema, rashes, hives, or unexplained itching
• Teeth grinding at night (bruxism)
• Sugar or carb cravings that never go away
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Brain fog, poor concentration, or memory problems
• Irritability, anxiety, or mood swings
• Sleep disturbances, especially waking between 2–4 a.m.
• Muscle aches, joint pain, or inflammation
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Unexplained fevers or night sweats
• Frequent headaches or migraines
• Stomach pain or tenderness
• Anemia or low iron despite a healthy diet
• Itchy ears, nose, or rectum
• Frequent colds, flu, or infections
• Persistent cough or breathing issues without another clear cause
• Kids: behavioral changes, hyperactivity, restlessness, or developmental regression
Prepping Your Body for a Cleanse
Jumping straight into parasite-killing herbs can overwhelm your system. Prepping is key:
1. Lymphatic Support – Stimulate your lymph flow to help your body carry waste out more effectively:
Dry brushing – before showering, use a natural bristle brush in upward strokes toward the heart.
Rebounding – a mini trampoline session gets lymph fluid moving. Tapping – gently tap along the chest, armpits, and collarbone to encourage drainage.
2. Diet Prep – Reduce or eliminate processed sugar, alcohol, and refined carbs. Focus on whole foods, plenty of fiber, and fresh herbs.
By: Katie Peede, Hippie Soul Healing
3. Binders – Parasites release toxins when they die. Binders like activated charcoal, bentonite clay and diatomaceous earth catch the toxins and safely remove them.
Parasite Cleanse Tincture
What You’ll Need:
Equal parts dried fennel, thyme, licorice root, wormwood, clove, and black walnut hull
180-proof grain alcohol
Quart-size glass jar with a lid
Cheesecloth or fine strainer
Dropper bottles
How to Make It:
1. Fill the jar halfway with your dried herb blend.
2. Pour alcohol over the herbs until completely covered, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
How to Use It:
Take 1–2 droppers in a small amount of water twice daily, preferably before meals. Continue for 2–4 weeks, then take a break before repeating if necessary. Be sure to prep the lymphatic system before, open pathways. Take a binder daily to remove toxins being released by parasites. Eat clean, whole foods. Avoid refined sugars and processed foods.
*While this blend can be a powerful ally, it may not be suitable for everyone. Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a cleanse, especially if you have chronic health conditions or are taking medication.
DM me @hippiesoulhealing to grab one or learn more!
Rebuilding After the Hurt >>> BRICK BY BRICK
Here’s a fact: not everyone will like you. That’s not me trying to be negative, it’s just the truth. Most people don’t want to be disliked; it makes us feel flawed or unworthy. However, the reality is that most of the time, it has nothing to do with us. It’s about the other person, what they’re going through, and what battles they’re fighting in their own mind. When that hate comes from someone close, like a parent, sibling, best friend, or partner, that’s the kind of pain that doesn’t just sting; it sinks into your spirit.
It’s bad enough for someone to dislike you, but it feels even more brutal when they go out of their way to show it. These people throw what I call “life bricks.” These bricks can take the form of hurtful words, actions that undermine you, silence that leaves you feeling isolated, gossip that tarnishes your reputation, or passive-aggressiveness that makes you question your worth.
When all these bricks come flying your way, if you’re not careful, you start picking them up. You hold them, carry them, and stack them. Soon, you’re building walls around your heart; then one day, you look around and realize you’re alone inside a fortress made of someone else’s issues, and now they’ve become your burden to bear.
Here’s another truth: some people have already made up their minds about you, and nothing you do- no peace offering, no explanation, and no apology- will change that. I used to think that if I just explained myself better, said sorry first, or proved I meant well, the hate would fade. I was wrong. The hard truth is, some people have so much pain inside them that hate is the only thing they feel in control of. For them, it’s easier to hold onto hate rather than opening the door to understanding.
It’s even harder when that hate comes from your own inner circle- the people who were supposed to love you unconditionally. For me, it started with my parents. Do I believe they love me deep down? Yeah, but their actions sometimes scream the opposite, and that hurts. There’s no other way to say it- it hurts to feel hated by the very people who created you. That’s a tough pill to swallow.
I’ve learned there’s no perfect way to respond to that kind of pain. You can try to ignore it. You can give it back. You can pretend it doesn’t bother you. Yet, no matter which road you take, pain is pain; they all hurt.
We hope that with time, the hate will fade. Perhaps they’ll grow, gain wisdom, or soften their edges. However, the sad reality is that growth sometimes never comes. I should know. My parents are in their seventies, and I’m still waiting. I’ve come to terms with the fact that it most likely never will. So, for the sake of my own mental health, I’ve had to learn how to protect my peace while carrying wounds I didn’t ask for.
As we grow older and move away from that tight inner circle, we start to widen our circle with friends and partners. Perhaps we create our own families, whether through blood, choice, or a combination of both. The bigger the circle, the more complex it gets. There are more people to love and care for, more relationships to balance, and more expectations to meet. With more expectations come more chances for conflict. Conflict often leads to disappointment, and disappointment can develop into resentment, with hatred right behind.
By Steven Dee Kish
That’s not to say you shouldn’t expand your circle. However when you do, remember to lean more into understanding, mindfulness, and forgiveness. These are the tools that will help you navigate the complexities of new relationships. They will prevent the cycle of hate from repeating and instead, foster a culture of empathy and growth.
So, where does all this hate come from, really? Usually, it’s deeply rooted in old wounds and unmet expectations. There are expectations we place on others, how they should treat us, how life should unfold, how the world should be. Then there are expectations other people place on us- some we agreed to, some we didn’t even know existed. The worst ones are the expectations people had no right to put on us in the first place. When these expectations go unmet, disappointment festers, and hate has a perfect breeding ground.
Think of a parent who expected you to follow a particular path. You didn’t. Instead of a mindful conversation, they meet you with criticism, condemnation, or coldness. They keep throwing bricks instead of putting them down and choosing compassion. This isn’t limited to family. It happens at work. Co-workers, managers, teammates- they might not say they hate you, but the energy doesn’t lie. Maybe it’s jealousy. Maybe it’s competition. Maybe it’s just two people with clashing values. Either way, the tension builds, and the air gets thick with unspoken animosity.
Even outside of work, friends, acquaintances, and social media connections can also throw their bricks. Sometimes it’s gossip. Sometimes it’s ghosting. Sometimes it’s that passive-aggressive comment you reread ten times, trying to figure out what they really meant.
Then there’s the outer circle: strangers- the rude cashier or the driver who cuts you off, the person who snaps at you in a line. For a split second, you hate them too. It’s not deep, but it’s real. It bubbles up from that same root of unmet expectations. We expected better behavior, manners, and decency, and when we don’t get it, we stew in that bitterness.
Here’s what we tend to forget: we don’t have to return the hate. Just because someone throws a brick doesn’t mean you should throw one back. You can catch it, hold it for a second, examine it for what it is, and then lay it down. You don’t have to carry it. You don’t have to build walls with it, and you definitely don’t have to aim it at anyone else. This is your choice, your power. You can choose to rise above the hate, to not let it define you or your actions.
That’s what real mindfulness looks like. It’s not just breathing exercises or guided meditations. It’s being aware in that split second when the brick is in your hand, and choosing not to add to the destruction. It’s choosing not to let it steal your peace. Trust me, it’s hard. It’s not a one-time thing. It’s a daily choice. It’s recognizing your triggers, your scars, and your history. It’s reminding yourself that hate will always come knocking, but you don’t have to open the door.
So next time someone throws a brick your way, pause. Look at it, and ask yourself: Do I build a wall? Do I throw it back? Or do I lay it down and build something more substantial with my life instead? That’s how we heal. That’s how we move forward, and most importantly, that’s how we keep our mental health intact, even when we’re surrounded by hate.
