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An Interview with Jordan "J-Bird" Bergsrud >>>
By: Stephanie Shehan
Dalton Campbell
CROSS COUNTRY WELLNESS
Jordan Bergsrud, known to friends as "J-Bird", spent many years in the local cannabis industry before launching his CBD company, Cross Country Wellness. I’ve known him since the early days and have had the opportunity to watch him grow as both a person and a business owner. I recently had the chance to sit down with Jordan to learn more about his product line and all the benefits of CBD.
STEPHANIE SHEHAN: Where are you from and what brought you to Las Vegas?
JORDAN BERGSRUD: In February of 2015, my father was involved in a horrible car accident and suffered 17 broken ribs, a fractured shoulder and a punctured lung. The timing was coincidental - as I was figuring out how I would take care of my dad, just one week later the job I was working at called me and asked me how quickly I could relocate to Las Vegas. I purchased a one-way ticket to Vegas and arrived to find my dad in a druginduced coma.
SS: That’s terrible, was he able to recover?
JB: He was not. Six months later, he had a heart attack in his sleep and passed away.
SS: I am so sorry. How did you cope? Did you stay in Vegas after that?
JB: There I was, 27 years old, without my dad… life really kicked me in the gut. I moved back home to Memphis, Tennessee and found myself in a really weird space. I wasn’t sure where I wanted to be or what I wanted to do.
SS: I can’t imagine that was easy for you. What led you to the cannabis plant?
Photos:
JB: I was always passionate about cannabis and the healing properties the plant carries. I decided to move back here to Vegas and a short while later began applying for jobs within the cannabis industry. October 2, 2017, just one day after the shooting at Mandalay Bay, I started a job at a local dispensary. We had an influx of people coming in, specifically asking for CBD to help alleviate anxiety. Some patrons had been involved in the shooting and many others were just on edge. It was just the beginning of my journey into the industry and I found myself researching CBD in order to provide good solid information to people.
I used my time at the dispensary to talk to business owners within the industry and to also educate myself as much as possible about the products and how they worked. Working with patients (at that time, the industry was medical only) and receiving their feedback on what worked and what didn’t was invaluable to me. My original motivation was to learn everything I could and then take that information back home to Tennessee if cannabis was ever legalized there.
SS: I met you when you had first started at the dispensary. It was so refreshing to meet someone who truly cared about the patients. How did you end up working primarily with CBD?
JB: With the passing of the “farm bill” in 2018, CBD/hemp became legal to sell in all states as long as it contained no more than 0.3 percent THC. Realizing that under this bill, I myself could actually sell high quality, full spectrum products to people all over the United States really gave me the motivation to start my own company. This was ideal - people could receive the benefits of the plant without the psychoactive effects. As I recommended CBD products at the dispensary, I paid close attention to what worked for people and what didn’t. I eventually used the information to curate the products I would offer from my own company.
SS: And again, you are educating yourself to the fullest in order to help people - that’s amazing. When did you start Cross Country Wellness?
JB: August 21, 2020, I started Cross Country Wellness. It was right in the middle of the pandemic and many people thought I was crazy. But, I saw the need for exceptional CBD products as most of us were suffering in one way or another. I was fortunate at the time to be working at Top Notch Dispensary. Their management allowed me to launch my CBD line at their facility while I was employed by them. I was quickly becoming much more passionate about CBD than THC. And, seeing people replace their pharmaceuticals with an all natural option really inspired me. I thought about what could have been different with my own dad had I had the knowledge about the plant when he was involved in his accident. And, it became my mission to help others keep their family members around just a little bit longer.
SS: It's awesome that you were allowed to launch your company while at Top Notch, they have a great team over there. Tell me a little bit about your product line. What you offer, how people choose what to buy, and what full-spectrum means.
JB: Full spectrum, in terms of cannabis, means that the products contain a range of naturally occurring cannabinoids (like THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN). Full spectrum products typically work better because the cannabinoids together offer a better, more complete effect. All of my products are lab tested to ensure that the THC is less than 0.3%.
My line includes 6 total products - 5 of them are ingestible and one of them is topical. Some people prefer capsules, some prefer tinctures, and some prefer gummies. It doesn’t really matter how you ingest the product, it just matters that you are ingesting a therapeutic dose that is right for you. And for people treating direct pain such as their knee or back, they typically benefit from a topical.
My product line includes a 500mg pain cream which is typically used topically for localized pain relief, a 600mg CBD/CBN Gummy primarily used to promote better sleep and relaxation, a 1,000mg pet tincture which can help with pain management and anxiety in pets, as well as a 750mg capsule, a 1,000mg tincture and a 2,500mg tincture which can all be ingested and used to help manage things like pain, inflammation and anxiety.
SS: What a nice array of products you’ve developed over the past five years. Do you offer additional education about CBD?
JB: I offer a wealth of education on my YouTube channel, @ abovethecloudswithjbird. Each of my products also includes a QR code that people can scan to find out how to use that particular product.
SS: How can readers follow what you are doing and order products?
JB: To order products, please visit crosscountrywellness.com. New customers can use code VW50 for 50% off their first order. Readers can follow me on Instagram @jbird_ccw and @crosscountrywellness. And, please check out my YouTube channel mentioned above.
SAUNA THERAPY
>>> The Key to Better Health
Imagine a therapy that can reduce your risk of heart disease by 50%, relieve chronic pain, improve respiratory health, and even lower your risk of dementia. This isn’t a futuristic medical breakthrough- it’s sauna therapy, an ancient practice now backed by modern science and embraced by wellness experts and elite athletes alike.
At Elite Medical Associates, we integrate modern medicine, functional medicine, and advanced wellness technologies to help our patients achieve optimal health. While we don’t offer sauna therapy on-site, we partner with leading wellness centers in Las Vegas to ensure our patients have access to the best advancements in sauna technology. Now, let’s dive deeper into this fascinating practice- exploring its ancient roots, the remarkable science behind its benefits, and the exciting modern innovations that elevate sauna therapy to a whole new level.
A Journey Through Time: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Science
The use of sauna therapy has been a cornerstone of Finnish culture for over 2,000 years, and its origins date back even further to the early days of human civilization. In Finland, saunas were traditionally constructed from wood, heated by a fire, and used for both physical cleansing and spiritual renewal. The sauna experience was considered so essential to health that it was common for women to give birth in saunas due to the clean environment they provided.
Saunas in ancient Finland were not just for bathing; they were central to the community, serving as places for relaxation, socializing, and even treating ailments. The Finnish word “löyly” refers to the steam created
when water is poured over hot stones, and it is said to symbolize the soul’s purification. Over time, the therapeutic benefits of sauna bathing became well known beyond Finland, spreading across Northern Europe and eventually to the rest of the world.
Modern science has validated what ancient cultures understood intuitively. Today, saunas are recognized as therapeutic spaces where heat can promote healing, support detoxification, and provide relief from a range of ailments. The cardiovascular benefits, pain relief, and mental health improvements associated with sauna therapy have led it to become a widely used wellness practice globally.
Sauna Use and Cardiovascular Health: A Lifesaving Routine
When it comes to heart health, sauna therapy offers compelling evidence of its ability to reduce mortality rates associated with cardiovascular diseases. One of the largest and most significant studies on this subject was conducted in Finland, a country with a long-standing sauna tradition. Published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015, this study followed 2,315 middle-aged men over a period of 20 years. The results were nothing short of groundbreaking—men who used saunas 4-7 times per week experienced a 50% reduction in cardiovascular-related deaths and a 40% reduction in all-cause mortality compared to those who used saunas less frequently.
How does sauna use improve heart health so significantly? Heat stress, as experienced in a traditional Finnish sauna, causes the body to mimic the effects of moderate physical exercise. The heart rate increases to the range seen during light to moderate physical activity (120-150 beats
per minute), and blood vessels expand, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure. This cardiovascular response is especially beneficial for individuals who are unable to engage in vigorous exercise due to physical limitations or chronic illness.
Moreover, regular sauna use stimulates the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are critical to protecting cells from damage, reducing inflammation, and improving arterial health. This helps reduce the progression of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries), which is a key risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. The American Heart Association has acknowledged the potential of heat exposure through saunas to support cardiovascular health, particularly when combined with other healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise and a balanced diet.
Chronic Pain and Muscle Recovery: The Healing Power of Heat
Sauna therapy is a well-established treatment for those suffering from chronic pain conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle injuries. The therapeutic benefits of heat have been used for centuries to relieve pain, but modern studies are now confirming just how effective sauna therapy can be.
A study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology in 2013 examined the effects of both infrared and traditional saunas on muscle recovery and pain management. The results showed that participants who used saunas after intense physical activity experienced faster recovery times, less muscle soreness, and improved physical function compared to those who did not use saunas. The heat increases blood circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues, speeding up the healing process.
For individuals with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, sauna therapy can offer significant relief. The heat relaxes tense muscles and increases blood flow to painful areas, reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort. Additionally, the release of endorphins during sauna use—a natural painkiller produced by the body—further enhances the feeling of well-being and relaxation.
One promising area of research is the use of infrared saunas for pain management. Infrared saunas penetrate deeper into the body’s tissues than traditional saunas, which allows for more targeted pain relief in the joints and muscles. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that infrared sauna therapy significantly reduced pain and stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. The reduction in inflammatory markers seen in these patients highlights sauna therapy’s potential as a non-pharmacological treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions.
Respiratory Health: The Sauna as a Breath of Fresh Air
One often overlooked benefit of sauna therapy is its ability to improve respiratory health. The combination of heat and steam in traditional saunas can help open airways, loosen mucus, and reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it an effective treatment for conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
By: Manoj K. Sharma, DO, Board Certified Internal Medicine
the benefits of halotherapy (salt therapy) in combination with sauna sessions. The study showed that inhaling fine salt particles during sauna use helped reduce respiratory symptoms and improve lung function in individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. The salt works as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to soothe irritated airways and improve breathing.
In Finland, it is common for people to use saunas to relieve symptoms of common colds, as the heat can help to open nasal passages and alleviate congestion. The dry heat found in traditional saunas can also be beneficial for people with respiratory infections, as it helps thin mucus secretions and encourages better airflow in the lungs.
Halotherapy, which is becoming an increasingly popular addition to modern saunas, can further enhance these benefits. By dispersing fine salt particles into the sauna air, halotherapy promotes respiratory detoxification and supports individuals with chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. For individuals with seasonal allergies, halotherapy can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Brain Health and Sauna Therapy: A Surprising Ally Against Dementia
Beyond its benefits for the heart and muscles, sauna therapy has recently gained attention for its potential to protect the brain and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Research conducted in Finland—the heart of sauna culture—has revealed that regular sauna use may be one of the most powerful lifestyle interventions for maintaining cognitive health.
A 2017 study published in the journal Age and Ageing followed more than 2,000 men over a period of 20 years and found that those who used saunas 4-7 times per week were 66% less likely to develop dementia and 65% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who used saunas less often. This groundbreaking finding suggests that heat exposure in saunas may play a protective role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
The underlying mechanisms for this protective effect are still being studied, but one hypothesis is that sauna use stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that supports the survival of neurons, encourages the growth of new brain cells, and protects against cognitive decline. Additionally, the cardiovascular benefits of sauna use likely contribute to improved brain health, as better circulation leads to increased blood flow to the brain, reducing the risk of stroke and cognitive impairment.
The stress-relieving properties of sauna therapy may also play a role in protecting the brain. Chronic stress is known to negatively impact cognitive function, and by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels, sauna use can help preserve mental clarity and reduce the risk of memory-related conditions.
Modern Innovations: Elevating the Sauna Experience
While the core benefits of sauna therapy have remained consistent for centuries, modern innovations have taken this ancient practice to new heights. Today’s saunas are equipped with cutting-edge technologies
designed to enhance the therapeutic experience and maximize health outcomes.
Oxygen Mixing Technology is a feature found in high-end saunas that ensures a continuous flow of fresh air during sauna sessions. Traditional saunas can become uncomfortable over time due to the buildup of stale, oxygen-depleted air, but this technology helps maintain an oxygen-rich environment, allowing for longer and more comfortable sessions. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are using saunas for therapeutic purposes, as they can tolerate higher temperatures and longer sessions without feeling lightheaded.
Chromotherapy, also known as light therapy, is another modern addition to saunas that uses specific wavelengths of light to influence mood, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Research has shown that different colors can impact the body in various ways—blue and green light can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety, while red light can stimulate energy and improve focus. By incorporating chromotherapy into sauna sessions, users can enhance the mental and emotional benefits of heat therapy, leaving them feeling not only physically refreshed but also mentally rejuvenated.
Modern saunas equipped with halotherapy add another therapeutic dimension. By dispersing fine salt particles into the air during sauna sessions, halotherapy can help cleanse the respiratory system, reduce airway inflammation, and improve lung function. Studies have found that halotherapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis, as it helps to open up airways and clear out mucus. Additionally, halotherapy has been shown to improve skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of salt.
These technological advancements, combined with the ancient benefits of heat exposure, make modern saunas an incredibly powerful tool for both physical and mental health.
Enhancing Sauna Therapy with Supplements, Diet, and Lifestyle
While sauna therapy alone provides numerous health benefits, combining it with supplements, dietary interventions, and lifestyle modifications can further enhance its effects and ensure safe use.
Hydration and Electrolytes
Sauna sessions result in significant sweating, leading to the loss of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It is crucial to maintain proper hydration, and replenishing lost electrolytes through supplements or foods rich in these minerals can prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Coconut water, bananas, and leafy greens are excellent sources of natural electrolytes, while specialized electrolyte supplements can provide quick replenishment.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish oil or flaxseed oil offer potent anti- inflammatory effects. They help reduce systemic inflammation, making them an ideal complement to sauna therapy, which also aims to reduce inflammation through heat shock proteins (HSPs). These healthy fats support cardiovascular health, further enhancing the heart-protective benefits of regular sauna use.
Antioxidants
The heat exposure from sauna use increases oxidative stress in the body, potentially leading to cell damage. To mitigate this, supplementing with antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and CoQ10 can neutralize free radicals and support cellular repair and detoxification. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, and green tea into
your diet can also support your body’s natural defenses.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production. It is often depleted through sweating during sauna use, which can lead to muscle cramps or fatigue. Taking magnesium supplements or increasing your intake of magnesium- rich foods like spinach, pumpkin seeds, and almonds can prevent these symptoms and support overall muscle recovery.
Adaptogens
Adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha, rhodiola, and ginseng help the body manage stress and balance cortisol levels. By enhancing the body’s resilience to stress, these herbs can further amplify the stress-relieving and relaxation benefits of sauna therapy. Adaptogens also support immune function, making them a valuable addition to a wellness routine that includes regular sauna use.
Lifestyle Interventions to Enhance Sauna Therapy
To maximize the benefits of sauna therapy, certain lifestyle practices can be integrated alongside the use of supplements and a healthy diet.
Cold Exposure
One effective method to enhance the health benefits of sauna therapy is to alternate between heat and cold exposure. Commonly known as contrast therapy, this technique involves switching between a hot sauna and a cold environment, such as an ice bath or cold shower. Studies show that this practice can improve circulation, vascular function, and immune response, while reducing muscle soreness and speeding up recovery after intense physical activity.
Moderate Exercise
Engaging in light physical activities, such as yoga or stretching, before or after sauna sessions can further improve flexibility and circulation. Regular exercise in combination with sauna use can promote detoxification, as it stimulates lymphatic flow and improves the body’s natural ability to flush out toxins.
Sleep Optimization
Quality sleep is vital for recovery and general health. Saunas promote relaxation, which can help improve sleep quality by reducing stress and tension before bedtime.
Establishing a consistent sleep routine, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a calm sleep environment can further optimize recovery after sauna sessions, allowing the body to fully rejuvenate.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health program. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment based on information from this article.
Sauna therapy may not be suitable for everyone, and certain individuals should use caution or avoid it altogether:
• Relative contraindications include conditions such as controlled hypertension, asthma, or COPD. People with these conditions should consult their healthcare provider before starting sauna therapy, as the high heat may exacerbate symptoms.
• Absolute contraindications include uncontrolled high blood pressure, unstable angina, severe heart disease, pregnancy, and recent stroke or heart attack. Individuals with these conditions should avoid sauna use to prevent adverse health effects.
Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine whether sauna therapy is safe and appropriate for your specific health circumstances. Proper hydration, nutrition, and medical guidance are key to ensuring safe and effective use of saunas.
>>> THE BODY20 EXPERIENCE
Choose Your Workout, Track Your Progress
WHAT IS EMS
Whole body EMS, or electro-muscle stimulation, utilizes training suits that contain 16 to 18 electrodes, placed onto all major muscle groups. Through the electrodes, stimulation is emitted to create a strong contraction. Along with these contractions, exercises are performed and parameters are set by your trainer to work towards different goals under a muscle development program, an endurance program or a combination of the two.
THE BODY20 EXPERIENCE
BODY20 is not your typical gym. Workouts are fast-paced and last less than 30 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.
STUDIO ASPECTS
Strength
• Maximized Muscle Recruitment
• Lean Muscle Development
• Helps You Build Your Fat Burning Machine
• Compound Full-Body Movements
Performance
• Strength-Based Workout with Varied Settings and Continuous Movement
• Muscle Building with Resistance Bands, Weights and Higher Pulse Width
• Movements Target Upper-Body, Lower-Body and Full-Body for Increased Range of Motion
• Ideal for Frequent Strength-Based Sessions and Overall Functionality
Endurance
• Burns Fat and Increases Energy / Oxygen Demand
• Increases VO2 Max
• Ideal for Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Improvement
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with Full-Body Movements
Restore
• This is Not a Workout; This is a Recovery Session
• Ideal for Members Prone to Soreness, Frequent Exercisers and Injury
Recovery
• Enhanced Blood Circulation and Lactic Acid Removal
• Includes Basic Stretching, Core Movements and Beyond
12 WORKOUTS OF BODY20
Strength WOW
Strength Upper Body
Strength Lower Body
Endurance HIIT
Endurance Treadmill
Endurance Elliptical
Cardio Boxing
Performance Plus
Performance Pilates
Performance Tai Chi
Stretch Restore
Restore with Brain Tap
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
BODY20 utilizes InBody scanning to help members understand their body composition. It is a non-invasive, accurate way to assess your weight in terms of muscle, fat and water. InBody scanning is available to all BODY20 members and delivers a report detailing things like:
• Total water amount within your body.
• How much muscle you have in different areas of your body.
• Your percentage of body fat.
• Levels of visceral fat surrounding your organs.
• A breakdown of the muscle and fat composition of each limb and your trunk.
The staff at BODY20 is available to answer your questions and provide you a free demo. For more information, call (725) 218-3270 or visit them online at body20.com. BODY20 is located at 4280 S Hualapai Wy, Las Vegas, NV 89147.
Facebook: body20summerlinsouth
Instagram: @body20summerlinsouth
$399 ACCELERATOR SPECIAL
12 sessions per month
3 sessions per week
(with a 6-month commitment)
THE POWER DUO: NANOVI + PEMF BY PULSE for Deep Cellular Recovery
Desert Moon Wellness' Top Therapies to Help You Heal Faster, Deeper, and Smarter
At Desert Moon Wellness, we’re always refining what works. Our tools aren’t random—they’re selected for their ability to target the root of dysfunction: the cell. This month, we’re highlighting two of our most advanced therapies for cellular repair, energy optimization, and oxidative stress support:
NanoVi + PEMF by Pulse
A modern synergy to support your body’s natural repair systems—whether you’re recovering from stress, training, chronic fatigue, or simply want to feel your best.
What is NanoVi?
NanoVi is a non-invasive technology that emits a biological signal designed to help repair oxidative stress damage at the cellular level. It mimics the body’s natural response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating protein repair mechanisms—without adding more stress to the system. When you breathe in humidified, activated air during your session, you’re supporting:
• Improved cellular regeneration
• Reduced oxidative stress and inflammation
• Enhanced DNA repair and protein folding
• Better recovery from workouts, illness, or fatigue
It’s gentle, yet deeply effective.
What is PEMF by Pulse?
PEMF by Pulse (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy) uses highintensity electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular voltage—essentially recharging your cells like batteries. At Desert Moon, we use PEMF by Pulse for:
• Pain relief and joint mobility
• Faster tissue healing
• Improved blood flow and oxygen uptake
• Restoring cellular communication
It also promotes detoxification and helps your body manage oxidative stress, particularly when used around oxygen-based or exercise-based therapies.
The beauty? This frequency-based therapy doesn’t just relax—it restores.
Why This Stack Works—
Before or After
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) floods the body with oxygen and drives it deep into tissues. On its own, it’s powerful. But pairing it with NanoVi and PEMF by Pulse—before and after—makes it even more impactful.
Before HBOT: Priming for Oxygen
• PEMF by Pulse increases cellular voltage and opens microcirculation
• NanoVi lowers baseline oxidative stress and pre-activates protein repair.
• Together, they prep the mitochondria and tissues to absorb oxygen more efficiently
• NanoVi continues to reduce oxidative stress by supporting antioxidant pathways and damaged protein repair
• PEMF by Pulse enhances post-dive oxygen utilization and improves
Brittney Palmer, a celebrated creative and iconic figure in the UFC world, recharging inside the Desert Moon hyperbaric chamber.
By: Janelle Ardizzone - Desert Moon Wellness
Photos: George Wilson
recovery time
• Together, they seal in the gains—helping the body integrate the oxygen and recover faster
Whether you book this stack before or after your dive, you’ll experience enhanced cellular benefits—supporting mitochondrial health, reducing oxidative stress, and improving tissue recovery. Choose what fits your schedule best—both options are powerful on their own.
Prep Tip: Hydrate to Amplify Your Results
Your cells need water and minerals to communicate effectively—especially during frequency-based therapies. That’s why we always recommend:
• Hydrating well before your session (1–2 hours prior is ideal)
• Avoiding dehydrating drinks like caffeine right before your session
“If your cells are the radio, hydration is the antenna.”
Pro Tip: Don’t Just Recover—
Rebuild
NanoVi and PEMF by Pulse aren’t just for recovery. They’re for:
• Athletes looking to perform at peak levels
• Busy professionals recovering from burnout
• Parents and caregivers navigating stress
• Anyone seeking deeper energy, resilience, and clarity
This stack is your reset button—whether you’ve done 10 dives or are just starting your journey.
Offer This Month at Desert Moon Wellness!
For the month of August, try a NanoVi + PEMF by Pulse Cellular Recharge Stack for just $49 (reg. $85)
Includes a sparkling LMNT electrolyte to prime your session. Ask our front desk or book online—limited spots available. www.desertmoonwellness.com
IV Hydration & CBD Infusions
Injections
Peptides & Prescription Skincare
>>> BACK IN ACTION CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Michelle Binkowski, DC, CMUA, CIME
From a very young age, Dr. Michelle Binkowski knew she wanted to become a doctor. Growing up, her mother was a hospital administrator and her father was more of a holistic healer which taught her different aspects of both Eastern and Western medicine. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree with a major in engineering and a minor in sports medicine. And, once she entered medical chiropractic school, she completed a surgical internship which allowed her the ability to really analyze patients and get to the root cause of their ailments.
I recently sat down with her to find out more about her practice, the cutting edge technologies she offers and the work she and her husband do within the community.
Stephanie Shehan: Where are you from and what brought you to Las Vegas?
Dr. Michelle Binkowski: I am originally from New York. I practiced in New York and California before moving to Las Vegas. I actually moved to Vegas twice. The first time was back in the 90’s, I came here to practice as well as educate and certify local physicians on a technique called Manipulation Under Anesthesia. I then moved out to San Diego and opened my private practice while teaching at -Los Angeles Chiropractic College. I met my husband Dixon and a short while later, I moved back to Las Vegas, where he was Director of Humana and we got married.
SS: I guess Vegas is where you were meant to be. Did you open Back in Action right when you moved back?
MB: When I moved back to Vegas, I continued creating CEU courses and teaching other chiropractors. I did locum tenes, or “fill in” work for other doctors while deciding which side of town I wanted to be on and then, I opened Back in Action Chiropractic.
SS: What prompted you to start your practice?
MB: I just knew that to be truly successful, I would need to run my own practice. My goal is to provide the highest level of care and get to the root cause of any problem. Working for other practitioners wasn’t allowing me to do that.
SS: Do you offer care to anyone? All ages?
MB: I do. With my background in sports medicine, I have seen and worked for a number of professional athletes and athletic organizations. I have
worked on babies and children as well as adults. I have provided chiropractic care for pregnant and postpartum women. And, here in Las Vegas, I am licensed to treat patients that have been involved in car accidents.
SS: Do you accept insurance from patients?
MB: Currently, I only accept motor vehicle insurance and Culinary insurance. All other patients are seen on a cash-pay basis.
SS: Typically, why do people seek chiropractic care?
MB: People seek care for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s after a sports injury or car accident. I’ve been in practice now for over 30 years and my background as a sports chiropractor has always prompted me to go above and beyond, in a very timely manner, because oftentimes I have to get my patient “back in the game.” Other times, it is a part of routine care and adjustments to remain feeling good and staying healthy. Typically, adjusting the spine helps to realign the bones and relieves the pressure on the nerves which opens up the neuronal flow of information in the neural network and makes everything in your body work more efficiently . Consistent chiropractic care assists with overall general health and creates longevity.
SS: What are some things that chiropractic can help with that people may not be aware of?
MB: There are many things. Chiropractic care can help ease childbirth by adjusting the pelvic area. With adjustments to the back, it can help release and move kidney stones. Adjustments can also help ease headaches. Many times it can even help to avoid having carpal tunnel surgery.
SS: How often do you recommend people see a chiropractor for routine care?
MB: I recommend at least once per month, and ideally, once per week if your time and budget allow. I see many older patients in their 70’s and 80’s that have incredible spines and minimal arthritis and they attribute it to regular, ongoing chiropractic care for a good portion of their lives. If you are involved in a car accident or get injured, of course, it is essential to seek treatment right away.
SS: Are you the only doctor at Back in Action?
MB: Yes, I am currently the only doctor. We have a small, close-knit team which includes my husband Dixon, a licensed massage therapist and our licensed chiropractic assistant Shyanne.
SS: Aside from the level of care that you provide, what else sets you apart from other chiropractors?
MB: Here at Back in Action Chiropractic, we offer something very unique called Cold Laser Therapy. We are the only practice in town offering this. With Cold Laser, a low-intensity light is applied usually to injured tissue which improves blood flow and decreases pain and inflammation. This is a unique therapy that really accelerates healing and we are seeing amazing results with our patients. We also provide rehab therapy for patients as well as BrainTap.
SS: Any chiropractic misconceptions you would like to clear up?
MB: One big misconception is that if you have something “out of place”, it is perfectly fine to have your friend or family member pop it back into place. I’ve had patients come in that were actually injured from someone else. Another misconception is that once you start seeing a chiropractor, you will always need to see one. This is not true, you do not necessarily have to continually receive adjustments and care. What typically happens is once someone seeks out chiropractic care, they feel good and that is what leads them to continue care. The last misconception I want to mention is that many people believe that chiropractors are not trained. We do receive an immense amount of training. And, in the state of Nevada, chiropractors are considered primary care physicians.
SS: Anything else you would like to mention?
MB: We are a veteran-friendly office. My husband Dixon who is part of our office team is a naval veteran and both he and I work with the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We offer veteran discounts and we work heavily with local veterans organizations including the Las Vegas Veteran’s Parade.
Also, we accept Culinary insurance. So, if you know someone who works in a casino on the strip, the employee and their families can come to Back In Action Chiropractic, and their insurance will cover the care.
Another key point is that, if you are involved in a car accident we can help. We accept most auto insurances.
SS: I love that. Thank you for the work you do for patients and the community. Please let our readers know where you are located and how they can learn more about Back in Action Chiropractic and follow you on social media?
MB: Back in Action Chiropractic is located at 5552 S. Fort Apache Road, Ste 110 in Las Vegas. Readers can learn more at backinactionchiropracticlv.com. We can be reached by phone at (702) 970-4325. And, you can follow us on Instagram at @backinactionchirolv.
By Stephanie Shehan
Incorporating CBD in Your Daily Routine >>> WELLNESS MADE EASY
From smoothies to skincare—wellness made easy, one drop at a time.
CBD is not just a wellness buzzword—it’s a versatile tool for supporting balance, easing stress, and helping your body feel more in sync. But despite the growing popularity of CBD, one question still lingers for many people: “How do I actually use it every day?”
The good news? Incorporating CBD into your lifestyle doesn’t have to mean overhauling your routine or tracking every dose like a supplement spreadsheet. CBD is about enhancing your daily rhythms, not complicating them. Whether you’re an early riser, a busy parent, a skincare lover, or someone just trying to get better sleep, there’s a way to integrate CBD that fits your flow.
Here are some easy, and effective ways to make CBD part of your daily routine, naturally, effortlessly, and on your own terms.
Start Your Day with a CBD-Infused Smoothie or Coffee
One of the easiest ways to integrate CBD is by adding it to something you already do every morning, like making coffee or blending a smoothie. Just a few drops of a high-quality CBD tincture can infuse your drink with calming, anti-inflammatory potential, helping to steady your nerves and reduce tension as you take on the day.
Opt for a flavored tincture that complements your beverage, such as mint, citrus, or vanilla. If you’re using a fat-rich base (like coconut milk), it may even help enhance CBD’s absorption. This method feels like self-care in a cup.
Take Capsules with Your Daily Supplements
If you're someone who already takes daily vitamins or supplements, CBD capsules fit right in. They're precise, portable, and flavor-free— perfect for people who want a consistent dose without any guesswork. Plus, the slow-release nature of some CBD capsules can support balance throughout the day, especially if you’re looking to address general inflammation or stress.
Pro tip: Keep them next to your multivitamin or morning tea to make the habit automatic. Use a CBD Lotion or Balm Post-Shower
After you step out of the shower, your skin is warm and your pores are open, making it the perfect time to apply a CBD-infused topical. Whether it's a body lotion, balm, or massage oil, this method works beautifully for those seeking localized relief from sore muscles, joint stiffness, or dry skin.
Even if you’re not dealing with chronic pain, adding CBD to your body care routine can be incredibly grounding. It turns an everyday ritual into something soothing, intentional, and luxurious.
Elevate Your Skincare Routine with CBD Serum or Cream
CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a dream ingredient for facial skincare. If you're dealing with redness, sensitivity, or breakouts, or you just want to support overall skin wellness, try swapping in a CBD serum, cream, or facial oil.
This method is perfect for people who love skincare rituals. Think of it as beauty meets balance. Plus, when paired with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or plant botanicals, CBD becomes part of a powerful skincare cocktail.
Incorporate a Midday Moment of Calm with a CBD Gummy
You don’t need a full meditation session to reset your mood. A simple way to support your mental well-being during a busy day is with a CBD gummy or edible. These are discreet, tasty, and ideal for managing mid-afternoon stress, especially if your job, schoolwork, or life in general gets overwhelming.
Choose a gummy with clearly labeled CBD content and, if you want a little boost, look for formulas with added adaptogens like ashwagandha or functional mushrooms for extra health support.
Make CBD Part of Your Workout Recovery
Whether you do yoga, lift weights, or take long walks, CBD can play a supportive role in your recovery process. Post-workout CBD products, such as roll-ons, cooling creams, or even infused bath soaks, can help soothe inflammation, reduce soreness, and bring your body back into balance.
By Sarah Schwefel
You don’t need to be an athlete to benefit. Even a gentle CBDinfused bath at the end of a long day can work wonders for tense muscles and tired joints.
Wind Down with a Drop Before Bed
If there’s one time of day where CBD shines brightest, it’s right before bed. Taking a tincture, capsule, or edible in the evening can help signal to your body that it’s time to relax. Some people report better sleep quality, fewer racing thoughts, and an easier time falling asleep when CBD becomes part of their nightly routine.
Look for products specifically formulated for nighttime, often blended with calming herbs like chamomile, lavender, or melatonin or CBN that supports sleep naturally. Think of it as the digital detox you actually stick to.
Make It Yours
The beauty of CBD is its versatility. There’s no single right way to use it—only the way that fits your life, your needs, and your preferences. You might love starting your day with a CBD latte, while someone else swears by their nighttime tincture or daily body balm.
As with any wellness practice, consistency matters. So whether you’re applying it topically, sipping it in your smoothie, or popping a gummy when life gets overwhelming, the key is finding what feels good, and making it a habit you actually enjoy.
CBD can be a tool for balance, calm, and restoration, and integrating it into your life should feel as easy and intuitive as brushing your teeth or making your morning coffee.
Start small. Stay consistent. And most importantly—make it yours.
The Overlooked Biomarker for Longevity BONE HEALTH >>>
When we talk about living a long, vibrant life, the focus often lands on heart health, cognitive function, or cutting-edge metrics like telomere length or VO₂ max. Yet, one critical factor is frequently overlooked: bone health. Far from being just a structural scaffold, your skeleton is a dynamic, living tissue that serves as a powerful biomarker for overall health and longevity. At OsteoStrong, we’re passionate about helping people harness the power of strong bones to enhance their healthspan and thrive well into their later years.
Why Bone Health Matters for Longevity
Bones are constantly remodeling, responding to lifestyle, nutrition, hormones, and physical stress. The state of your bones reflects your body’s broader metabolic and hormonal balance. Poor bone health can signal underlying issues like chronic inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances—factors that accelerate aging and reduce vitality. On the other hand, strong bones indicate a resilient, adaptable body primed for a long, active life.
Osteoporosis is often dismissed as an inevitable part of aging, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Bone loss is not a foregone conclusion—it’s preventable and, in many cases, reversible with the right approach. By prioritizing bone health early, starting in your 20s or 30s, you can significantly reduce your lifetime fracture risk and maintain the physical independence that defines a high quality of life. Your skeleton is the foundation that carries you through decades of movement, adventure, and vitality. If it weakens, your ability to stay active and independent falters, directly impacting your longevity.
A Holistic Approach to Bone Health
Building and maintaining strong bones requires a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond just calcium and vitamin D. It involves targeted exercise, optimized nutrition, and lifestyle habits that support the body’s natural bone-building processes. This is where OsteoStrong’s mission aligns with the latest science in bone health optimization. By addressing the root causes of bone loss—such as inadequate physical stress, poor nutrition, or hormonal shifts—you can not only prevent osteoporosis but also enhance your overall healthspan.
A key component of this approach is understanding that bone health is a window into your body’s metabolic resilience. For example, bones
By John Wetzel
require a delicate balance of hormones like estrogen and testosterone, which decline with age, particularly during menopause or andropause. By addressing these factors early through lifestyle interventions, you can protect your skeleton and, by extension, your longevity.
OsteoStrong: Building the Foundation for Longevity
At OsteoStrong, we use osteogenic loading to stimulate bone growth and improve skeletal strength. Our proprietary equipment allows members to safely apply high-impact forces in a controlled environment, triggering the body’s natural bone-building response. This approach is backed by research showing that impact and strength training are critical for maintaining and increasing bone density, reducing fracture risk, and supporting overall physical resilience. Unlike traditional gym workouts, OsteoStrong sessions are low-risk and highly efficient, requiring just 10-15 minutes per week to deliver measurable results. With only eight reported fractures in over 10 million visits, our technology is both safe and effective.
OsteoStrong’s methodology complements a holistic bone health strategy by providing a practical, science-backed way to directly strengthen bones. Whether you’re in your 30s looking to build peak bone mass or in your 60s aiming to reverse bone loss, our program is designed to meet you where you are and help you build a stronger future.
Practical Steps for Lifelong Bone Health
To make bone health a cornerstone of your longevity plan, consider these evidence-based steps:
1. Strength Training: Engage in high-impact activities like those offered at OsteoStrong to stimulate bone remodeling. Regular sessions can help maintain or increase bone density, even for those with osteoporosis.
2. Nutrition: Focus on a nutrient-dense diet rich in protein, minerals like magnesium and copper, and vitamins D and K2. These nutrients support bone formation and overall metabolic health.
3. Hormone Awareness: Hormones play a critical role in bone health. Regular health screenings can help identify imbalances early, allowing for targeted interventions to protect your skeleton.
4. Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep, stress management, and regular movement. These habits support the body’s ability to maintain strong bones and overall vitality.
A Call to Action
Bone health is not just about avoiding fractures—it’s about building a foundation for a long, active, and fulfilling life. Your skeleton is an early warning system for aging, reflecting the state of your overall health. By taking proactive steps today, you can strengthen your bones, reduce your risk of age-related decline, and unlock your potential for a vibrant future.
Join us at OsteoStrong for a free trial session and discover how our innovative approach can help you build stronger bones and a longer, healthier life. Visit www.osteostronglv.com to learn more. Your skeleton is ready to carry you forward—give it the strength it deserves.
STAYING VIBRANT AT EVERY AGE Essential Senior Wellness Tips
As we age, our bodies and minds go through changes that can impact overall health, but staying well doesn’t mean following a strict regimen. It’s about cultivating habits that support vitality, independence, and joy. Wellness isn’t about age, it’s about how we care for ourselves at every stage of life. By focusing on movement, nutrition, connection, and mindfulness, seniors can enjoy greater well-being, mobility, and joy. Aging is not the end of vitality, it’s a new chapter of wisdom, strength, and possibility. Here are some key wellness tips to help seniors stay energized, healthy, and fulfilled in their older years.
Move Your Body Daily
Physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for aging well. Regular exercise can improve heart health, boost mood, enhance mobility, and prevent falls. It doesn’t have to be intense—walking, swimming, yoga, tai chi, and resistance bands are all excellent low-impact options. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate movement per week, but even short bursts of daily activity make a difference.
Nourish with Whole Foods
A nutrient-rich diet supports energy, brain function, and immune strength. Prioritize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Seniors should also pay attention to hydration—water, herbal teas, and broths can prevent fatigue and confusion. If appetite is low, consider smaller, more frequent meals to meet nutritional needs.
Stay Connected
Social wellness is just as important as physical health. Loneliness and isolation can lead to depression and cognitive decline. Regularly connecting with friends, family, or community groups can lift spirits and foster a sense of purpose. Many seniors find joy in volunteering, joining clubs, or participating in group activities like art classes or book clubs.
Prioritize Preventive Care
Routine health screenings and check-ups are key for catching issues early. Stay up to date with vision and hearing exams, vaccinations, and dental visits. Talk to your healthcare provider about managing chronic conditions, medication reviews, and supplements that support bone, heart, and brain health.
Keep the Brain Active
Cognitive wellness matters at every age. Engaging in puzzles, learning new skills, playing instruments, or even trying brain-training apps can help maintain mental sharpness. Reading, writing, and meaningful conversations also keep the brain stimulated and resilient.
Embrace Rest and Relaxation
Quality sleep is vital for healing, memory, and emotional balance. Develop a calming bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and create a cool, quiet sleep environment. Managing stress through meditation, deep breathing, or time in nature also helps support a calm, healthy mind.
Create a Safe Home Environment
Falls are a major concern for seniors. Improve home safety by removing tripping hazards, adding grab bars in bathrooms, installing good lighting, and using non-slip mats. Small changes can significantly reduce the risk of injury and support confident, independent living.
By Jennifer Walker
VOLCANO GRILLE >>>
Fuels Las Vegas Locals’ Fitness Goals with Protein-Packed Eats
This August, as fitness routines kick into high gear and gym goals stay top of mind, Las Vegas locals are looking for meals that work as hard as they do. Stepping in to meet the demand is Volcano Grille, a fast-casual hibachi-style favorite known for serving premium high-protein, freshly made-to-order meals that deliver serious fuel.
Volcano Grille offers fully customizable plates and their signature Volcanorittos, burrito-style wraps filled with lean protein, grilled vegetables and your choice of rice or yakisoba noodles. The menu includes single, double, and triple protein portions, with a variety of meat, seafood, and plant-based options such as grilled chicken breast, steak, salmon, shrimp and tofu. Whether you're bulking, cutting or simply focused on fueling your body and building strength, every meal can be tailored to your desired macros and nutritional goals.
What sets Volcano Grille apart is its flexible, diet-friendly approach. Guests can request meals without garlic butter to reduce added fat or swap grains for extra vegetables to accommodate low-carb, high-protein diets. Pescatarians can indulge in the King of Pirates plate, an elevated trio of grilled salmon, shrimp and a whole lobster tail, while vegetarians will appreciate the Hidden Leaf Plate, complete with crispy fried shoyu tofu and veggie spring rolls. Fresh, lighter sides like the Miso Strawberry Salad and Ginger Salad add bright, nutrient-rich options to round out any meal.
“Protein is essential for recovery, muscle growth, and keeping you full longer, especially if you’re pushing your body daily,” says Kenneth Kneipp, Co-Founder of Volcano Grille. “We created Volcano Grille to make it easy for people to hit their protein goals while still enjoying bold hibachi teppanyaki flavors that’s always served fresh and fast.”
With locations in both Southwest Las Vegas and Henderson, Volcano Grille makes it easy for Las Vegas gym-goers, athletes and health-conscious eaters to fuel their active lifestyles without falling off track.
To learn more, check out volcanogrille.com or follow @VolcanoGrille on Instagram for menu highlights and updates.
BROOKLYN BOWL LAS VEGAS
>>> Biohacking with JohnXD
Optimizing Health with Ozone Therapy
Welcome back to biohacking with JohnXD! I’m always open to exploring new ways to enhance health, and ozone therapy was one I’d heard about but never fully understood—until I met Dr. Hannah, aka Dr. Ozone, in January 2025. Her passion for ozone’s benefits convinced me to give it a try as part of my biohacking journey.
Dr. Hannah, a minimalist in her approach, uses a method called direct IV injection (DIV). While this technique is often used as an alternative treatment for medical conditions, over her years in practice, Dr. Hannah has shifted her focus from treatment to health optimization and developed biohacking protocols. Her protocol typically involves one session per week for 12 weeks, with the ozone volume individualized based on each patient’s response and the body’s feedback. After completing the initial series, maintenance sessions are done monthly or as needed. For example, many of her patients choose to get a treatment before traveling to help support their immune system.
While it might sound intense, this approach has been used by practitioners for years, though it’s less common today due to misinformation. Let’s clear that up and dive into what ozone therapy is all about.
What is Ozone?
Ozone (O ) is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms, known for its powerful healing potential. Here are its key benefits:
Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: Ozone boosts oxygen release from red blood cells and improves circulation, aiding wound healing, tissue repair, and infection control in low-oxygen areas.
Antimicrobial Power: As a strong oxidizer, ozone destroys bacteria, viruses, and fungi by disrupting their cell membranes, making it effective for chronic wounds or infections resistant to antibiotics.
Immune System Boost: Ozone activates white blood cells and increases cytokine production, enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and reduce inflammation.
Antioxidant Support: Controlled ozone exposure stimulates antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and glutathione, reducing oxidative damage and supporting tissue repair.
Improved Circulation: Ozone promotes nitric oxide release and new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), benefiting conditions like diabetic ulcers or poor circulation.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: By reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines,
ozone may help manage chronic inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
Tissue Regeneration: Ozone stimulates growth factors, supporting the healing of skin lesions, burns, or surgical wounds.
My Experience
In March, I added ozone therapy to my weekly biohacking regimen and noticed visible changes, like brighter blood color, indicating improved oxygenation. Even though I was already in good health, each session brought noticeable improvements. After eight sessions over a few months, Dr. Hannah, relying on her intuitive approach, determined my body had reached optimal benefits and to shift to maintenance dosing. Safety is paramount with direct IV injection, and her expertise ensured a smooth process.
Post-treatment, I felt energized and vibrant. In one session, Dr. Brewer, a colleague, examined my blood under a microscope before and after, revealing rapid cellular repair—an exciting validation of ozone’s effects. Tracking these changes helps fine-tune my optimization journey.
Final Thoughts
Ozone therapy is a powerful, minimalist approach to addressing root health issues, and I’m convinced it’s worth exploring. I plan to continue sessions monthly to maintain peak performance. Huge thanks to Dr. Hannah for introducing me to this game-changer! Stay curious, biohackers—ozone might be your next step toward optimization.
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.
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RETROGRADES >>> aren’t ruining your life.
Mercury’s at it again—or at least that’s what we tell ourselves when things start to go sideways. A missed text, a tech glitch, a wave of déjà vu so strong it knocks the wind out of us. “It must be retrograde season” is an easy excuse these days for when things aren’t going our way.
As a life coach who works with astrology, I’ve watched retrogrades spark everything from collective anxiety to personal breakthroughs. While pop culture loves to poke fun at their personal significance through memes, retrogrades actually offer something much deeper and far more healing.
They remind us to slow down. To stop pushing. To revisit what we’ve rushed past. And in a world that rewards constant motion, that invitation can feel like both a disruption and a gift.
This summer, we’re in a cycle of deep cosmic review with several planets in retrograde or getting ready to be. Instead of seeing this season as one to survive, I believe you can learn to work with it. There are ways to lean into it and to let it soften what can feel constricted in your life during these cycles.
When a planet goes retrograde, it doesn’t actually move backward—it only appears to, from our perspective on Earth. In astrology, that optical illusion carries the meaning of shifts in energetic flow, pulling us inward instead of pushing us forward. Each planet governs a different area of life. Mercury rules communication and technology. Venus governs love, beauty, and values. Saturn is all about boundaries, structure, and responsibility. When any of these planets go retrograde, they prompt us to revisit what we’ve been doing in that area—and often, what we’ve been avoiding.
You might feel disoriented, nostalgic, forgetful, or extra sensitive. Things break down so you can rebuild them with better alignment. Conversations resurface. Old emotions bubble up. Deadlines stretch or stall. Not because you’re doing anything wrong, but because you’re being asked to go deeper than surface-level productivity.
Retrogrades allow for pattern recognition. They show us where we’ve gone on autopilot and invite us back into intentionality. This sparked my retrograde remedy formula. I realized that we needed a framework to follow that would transform the retrograde panic into empowerment. We’ve all heard of the ‘3 Rs’ in sustainability. But what if we applied that same mindset to our spiritual and emotional growth?”When I found myself stuck in a frustrating cycle during a previous retrograde season—confused, reactive, and completely drained—I realized I didn’t need to fear retrogrades. I needed a framework to work with them.
The framework is simple: Reduce the shadow of the planet. Reuse the gifts of the sign. Recycle the lessons of the season.
Reduce the Shadow of the Planet
Each planet carries both gifts and shadows. During retrogrades, the shadow side tends to amplify. Mercury might bring miscommunication, Venus may stir up comparison or past wounds in relationships, and Saturn can trigger fears of failure or inadequacy.
Reducing the shadow allows us to notice what is working during the retrograde of this planet without identifying with the retrograde. Ask:
Where am I reacting from fear, not intention? What story am I telling myself that may no longer be true?
Reuse the Gifts of the Sign
Every retrograde happens in a specific zodiac sign, which flavors its energy. That sign holds wisdom, even in review mode. A Mercury retrograde in Leo might reignite your voice and creativity. A Venus retrograde in Virgo could invite deeper discernment in self-worth. Ask:
What strengths of this sign can I re-engage with? What values or traits can I reclaim instead of discard?
Recycle the Lessons of the Season
Retrogrades are seasonal teachers. They often bring back themes you thought you’d already “dealt with.” Unlike the astrologers who lean into how these cycles may feel like punishment, there is a pathway to connect to the lessons to deepen your integration. What once felt like a setback may now be your breakthrough. Ask:
What lesson is resurfacing—and how can I meet it differently this time?
The Retrograde Remedy Formula turns cosmic chaos into personal clarity. When you use it regularly, retrogrades become less about breakdowns and more about breakthroughs.
We tend to treat wellness like a checklist: drink more water, meditate, get 10,000 steps. But true wellness requires alignment. Alignment requires regular course correction.
That’s what retrogrades are here for.
In coaching, I often remind clients that growth doesn’t come from constant motion. It comes from integration. From noticing when your habits, thoughts, or relationships no longer match your values, and gently pivoting.
Retrogrades mirror that process. They pull your attention to the patterns you’ve been ignoring, the emotions you’ve bypassed, the boundaries you’ve let slide. Not to shame you, but to give you the time and space to adjust.
This is especially important for your nervous system. In a place like
Las Vegas, where stimulation is a lifestyle, retrogrades ask you to pause. Breathe. Say no. Get quiet enough to hear what your body and intuition have been whispering all along.
So when a retrograde hits, instead of pushing harder, ask yourself:
• What would it look like to give myself more time?
• Where can I trade urgency for presence?
• What’s no longer worth the energetic cost?
Working with retrogrades in this way becomes its own form of selfcare. It reconnects you with your inner compass—something no green juice or yoga class can do for you.
Retrograde Season Through the Remedy Lens
With multiple planets currently retrograde or heading there soon, here's how to use the retrograde formula to move through these energies with clarity and care.
Pluto Retrograde (Aquarius)
May 4 - October 14, 2025
• Reduce: Control, obsession with outcomes, fear of being exposed
• Reuse: Aquarius’ vision for collective progress and innovation
• Recycle: Lessons on power struggles and outdated beliefs around success or identity
What part of me is ready to fall away so something truer can take root?
Neptune Retrograde (Aries >>Pisces)
July 4- December 10, 2025
• Reduce: Escapism, confusion, fantasy without action
• Reuse: Aries’ drive to act and Pisces’ spiritual insight
• Recycle: The lessons around illusions that have clouded your clarity or kept you waiting for a “perfect time”
Where am I being invited to see clearly—and start again from soul?
Saturn Retrograde (Aries>>Pisces)
July 13- November 28, 2025
• Reduce: Harsh self-criticism and over-responsibility
• Reuse: Aries’ bold self-leadership and Pisces’ intuitive trust
• Recycle: The lessons on following old rules, obligations, and inner authority models that no longer support your growth
Am I honoring my boundaries—or just performing them?
• Recycle: The lessons of old messages, limiting narratives, or stifled ideas you’re ready to rewrite
What needs to be said differently this time—and from the heart, not the wound?
Chiron Retrograde (Aries) July 30, 2025- January 2, 2026
• Reduce: Wounding behaviors like defensiveness, people-pleasing, or self-erasure
• Reuse: Aries’ courage and willingness to be seen, even imperfectly
• Recycle: Lessons on core identity wounds that once protected you but now restrict you
What if my healing came from being more myself, not less?
It’s easy to feel like retrogrades throw us off track. But more often than not, they reveal where we’ve already drifted.
Whether it’s Mercury clouding your words or Saturn testing your resolve, each retrograde is part of your evolution. Instead of fearing the backspin, lean into the wisdom it offers. Use the Retrograde Remedy Formula—reduce the planetary shadow, reuse the sign’s gifts, recycle the season’s lessons—and you’ll start to notice something powerful:
You don’t break down during retrogrades.
You break open.
Retrogrades help you remember who you are—so you can realign with where you’re meant to grow.
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.
BURNOUT ISN’T JUST A BUZZWORD
Reclaiming Self-Care Through Occupational
Do you ever find yourself stuck in a rut or simply going through the motions? Maybe you’ve reached the end of the day—or even the month— realizing you haven’t felt joy in a while. The culprit might be burnout, and it can happen to anyone.
At its core, burnout is a symptom of life imbalance. When your roles, routines, habits, and daily responsibilities start to pull more from you than they give back, something has to give and it’s usually your energy, motivation, and sense of self.
There’s a good chance that your self-care practices are inconsistent, surface-level, or missing entirely. And with everything on your plate, it may even feel impossible to carve out time for you.
This is something I see often as an occupational therapist. There’s a noticeable gap in how we prioritize others over ourselves, especially in caregiving, helping, and high-demand roles. But what if I told you that selfcare isn’t selfish or indulgent, it’s essential?
Let’s take a moment to reframe how you think about self-care. Not as another thing to add to your to-do list, but as a way to restore balance in your daily life. Because when you care for yourself with intention, you don’t just survive, you start to show up as your best self, for yourself and for everyone around you.
What Burnout Feels Like
Burnout often feels like constant overwhelm, poor time management, and a fading ability to show up as your best self. You stop moving your body, challenging your mind, or making progress toward your goals. Old habits start creeping in, and many of them don’t actually serve you.
You might find yourself becoming more irritable, snappy, or disconnected from the people you care about. And then—just to top it off—you see some influencer promoting a $200 bubble bath kit or a luxury mountain retreat as the answer to burnout. Cue the eye roll.
Good thing you’re here.
This article is meant to reconnect you to what really matters: your daily
Balance
roles, routines, and habits. The things you prioritize each day have a direct impact on your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Burnout doesn’t mean you’re broken. It’s a sign that something in your lifestyle is out of balance and you can shift it back into alignment.
The Self-Care Myth
The biggest issue with the “fancy” wellness narrative is that it’s often inaccessible, expensive, and unsustainable- at least for the average person, on a regular basis.
Let’s be clear: I’m not saying you shouldn’t treat yourself. I love a good facial, massage, or luxury experience as much as anyone. But true selfcare—the kind that actually prevents burnout—starts with the small, daily ways you show up for yourself.
It’s the feel-good habits that support your nervous system and fill your cup consistently: a calming morning routine, a daily walk, a few deep breaths between tasks, or a simple wind-down ritual at night.
Instead of chasing big, one-time fixes, try reflecting on what tiny things you can integrate into your day-to-day life. These rituals are where regulation and restoration really happen.
As an occupational therapist, I often tell clients: burnout doesn’t just come from stress—it comes from how your time is spent. The roles you take on, the habits you maintain, and the things you do each day either support or drain your energy. That’s where occupational balance comes in—because when your life is out of sync, no amount of bath bombs or doom-scrolling can bring you back to center.
Occupational Balance: Why It Matters
Occupational balance is the idea of having a healthy mix between all the activities that occupy your time—like sleep, work, caregiving, rest, hobbies, socialization, and yes… self-care.
Some of the most common examples of occupational imbalance show up in the lives of stay-at-home parents, healthcare workers, and anyone in high-demand roles. These individuals are often exceptional at showing up for others but find it incredibly difficult to carve out time for themselves.
I get it. These responsibilities are often non-negotiable. You can’t always pause life or disappear for a 3-day staycation. That’s why occupational balance isn’t about doing less - it’s about doing more of what sustains you
When your days include meaningful activities that support your identity, emotional regulation, and joy—not just your obligations—you start to refill your cup. You move from survival mode to something closer to alignment.
Finding that balance looks different for everyone, but the common thread is this: your time should reflect your values, not just your responsibilities.
By Anna, OTR/L – The Self-Care OT
OT-Informed Strategies to Reduce Burnout
When you really start to examine the way you spend your time, it becomes easier to see whether or not you’re regularly creating space to selfregulate. And often, that answer is no.
The good news? You don’t need a complete life overhaul. There are several simple, OT-informed strategies you can weave into your daily rhythm to reduce burnout and restore balance—without needing more hours in the day.
Some of the most effective include:
• Intentionally carving out time for self-care, not just when it’s convenient
• Adding one meaningful activity each day—on purpose (think: creativity, connection, or play)
• Regulating your nervous system through grounding, sensory strategies, mindfulness, or breathwork
• Setting boundaries that honor your energy and capacity
• Creating sustainable routines that allow you to show up with more consistency and less resentment
Small shifts can lead to big changes—especially when they’re aligned with what actually supports you. Occupational balance isn’t about perfection. It’s about reclaiming your time in ways that restore you.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article sparked some self-reflection—and maybe even a gentle shift in how you prioritize yourself. Burnout is more than just a buzzword. It’s a sign, a symptom, and ultimately, feedback from your mind and body that you’re running on empty.
I encourage you to take a mindful look at your daily schedule and honestly consider how it impacts your energy, mood, and well-being. Then, reimagine that same day in a life where you’ve created healthy, balanced rhythms—ones that help you recognize stress, navigate challenges, and recover with intention.
You deserve routines that refill your cup and help you feel equipped, not overwhelmed.
If this resonated with you, know that you’re not alone. I’m building a community through The Self-Care OT, PLLC, where we can talk about burnout, nervous system regulation, and sustainable self-care—without shame or perfectionism. Whether through in-person gatherings or virtual conversations, you’re invited to be part of the shift: one that prioritizes you. As always, take care of yourself.
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.
Healing is a journey. A journey that requires patience, courage, and an open heart. La June Montgomery Tabron’s How We Heal is not just a book; it’s a deeply moving guide to the power of collective healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation. Reading it feels like sitting down with a wise mentor who truly understands the complexities of pain, resilience, and hope. It’s the kind of book that wraps you in a warm embrace, encouraging you to explore your own healing process while reminding you that you are never alone.
Tabron, a renowned leader in philanthropy and community development, brings an inspiring and compassionate perspective to the often-overlooked subject of healing. She doesn’t just talk about healing as an individual act; she weaves together the intricate connections between personal healing and societal transformation. Through a combination of personal narratives, powerful insights, and practical guidance, How We Heal serves as a lighthouse for anyone seeking clarity and restoration.
One of the most captivating aspects of this book is its emphasis on storytelling. Tabron shares poignant stories, both her own and those of others, that illuminate the healing process in raw and deeply authentic ways. These narratives highlight struggles, breakthroughs, and the undeniable resilience of the human spirit. In doing so, she creates a space where readers can see themselves reflected, no matter where they are in their own healing journey. The honesty in these stories is striking. They serve as reminders that healing is neither linear nor one-size-fits-all, but rather a deeply personal and transformative experience.
What makes How We Heal stand out is its practical wisdom. Tabron doesn’t just offer inspiration, she provides tangible tools and strategies for those looking to embark on or deepen their healing journey. Whether it’s through mindfulness practices, community engagement, or self-reflection exercises, the book is packed with actionable steps that empower readers to take ownership of their healing process. Each chapter offers a blend of emotional depth and intellectual insight, making the book both moving and incredibly useful.
As I read through How We Heal, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences with healing. There were moments when I found myself nodding along, feeling seen in a way that few books have made me feel before. The book reminded me that healing is not just about overcoming past wounds, it’s about embracing growth, nurturing self-love, and fostering connections that uplift both ourselves and those around us. Tabron’s words resonated deeply, serving as a gentle but powerful call to action: to heal not just for ourselves, but for our communities, our families, and future generations.
Tabron’s message is clear- healing is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. In a world that often feels fractured and disconnected, How We Heal is a beacon of hope. It reminds us that we have the capacity to mend, to transform, and to thrive, even in the face of adversity. The book encourages readers to tap into their own inner strength, to cultivate empathy, and to recognize the ripple effect that personal healing can have on the world around us.
Perhaps one of the most powerful takeaways from this book is the idea that healing is a communal effort. Tabron emphasizes that we heal best
By Shwa Laytart
when we heal together. She highlights the importance of safe spaces, meaningful conversations, and supportive communities. Healing is not just an inward process, it’s deeply intertwined with how we engage with others, how we show up for those in need, and how we contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
Reading How We Heal feels like embarking on a transformative journey. Tabron’s writing is both poetic and practical, offering a balance of heartfelt wisdom and actionable guidance. I wholeheartedly recommend How We Heal to anyone who has ever experienced pain, who has ever felt lost, or who is simply seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to heal. This book is not just a resource, it’s a companion, a guide, and a source of unwavering encouragement. La June Montgomery Tabron has given us a gift, and I, for one, am deeply grateful for it.
Take it from me, this book is worth raving about!
You can pick up a copy of How We Heal by La June Montgomery Tabron at bookshop.org/shop/avantpop
HOW TO STAY HUMAN
A special column by Tori Gordon
These days, it feels like we’re living in two worlds at once.
One world is powered by machines: algorithms, automation, and artificial intelligence humming beneath every post, headline, and swipe. The other world is rooted in humanity. It lives in the quiet beat of your heart, the instinct to exhale, and the knowing in your bones. In the rush to keep up with the first, it’s easy to forget how to live in the second.
That’s why I invited one of my dearest friends, Tori Gordon, to write this month’s column.
Tori is someone I trust with my tenderest truths. She’s a spiritual doula, a soul whisperer, and a fierce protector of what it means to be human. In a time when machines are learning to mimic our voices and algorithms know exactly how to capture our attention, Tori reminds us how to listen inward. She helps us come home—not just to our bodies, but to our presence, our peace, and our aliveness.
This past weekend, I sat across from her as she helped me untangle a knot I had been carrying in my chest for over a year. She didn’t try to fix it or rush me through it. She stayed with me - steady, present, unshaken. She reminded me it was okay to feel exactly what I was feeling, without needing to explain, apologize or try to hold it together. And in that quiet, I felt safe enough to stop bracing. Safe enough to let it go.
Tori’s work isn’t anti-AI, but rather, it’s pro-human. It’s a reminder that while machines may get smarter - our bodies and our spirit - are already wise. No algorithm can replace the intelligence of your nervous system, the medicine of your grief, or the holiness of your joy.
With love and reverence, Jaden
We are living in a time of extraordinary acceleration.
Technology is evolving faster than our biology. Our nervous systems are overstimulated, our calendars are overbooked, and our attention is under siege. AI is writing our emails, curating our feeds, even answering our questions about life and love and meaning. In many ways, we’ve never been more connected, and yet so many of us feel more disconnected than ever.
Disconnected from our bodies. From our truth. From each other. From God.
And yet, beneath all the noise of modern life,
there’s a quiet knowing. A whisper in the bones. A call to come home to ourselves.
That’s what my new work, How to Stay Human is about. It’s a movement. A message. A reminder. A resistance.
Not against progress - but against forgetting. Not against AI - but against the abandonment of the soul. Not against change - but against the cost of trading our humanity for efficiency, our embodiment for performance, our sacredness for speed.
I believe we are being invited into a great reunion. Between body and spirit. Between masculine and feminine. Between truth and tenderness. Between the way we live and the reason we’re alive.
I’ve spent the last decade studying that reunion. Facilitating it. Guiding people back to it. As a trauma-informed coach, breathwork facilitator, and spiritual teacher, I’ve helped high-performing leaders, seekers, and sensitive souls remember how to come home to themselves—not through striving, but through surrender. Not through performance, but through presence. And above all, through the body.
Because here’s the thing: your body remembers. Even when your mind forgets.
When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, it’s not just “in your head.”
It’s your nervous system carrying signals of threat—through your heart rate, your breath, your posture, your gut.
These are all part of the ongoing conversation your body is having with your soul.
But most of us were never taught how to listen to that conversation. We were taught to override, numb, dismiss, distract, or disassociate.
That’s why I created a simple daily practice called “Drop In, Don’t Check Out.” It’s a 3-minute ritual anyone can do to reconnect to their body and restore inner safety—especially in moments of stress, shame, or spiraling.
Here’s how it works:
Drop In
Close your eyes. Place one hand on your heart, one on your belly. Take a long, slow breath. Feel the rise and fall. Let your awareness drop from your mind into your body. Ask yourself gently:
“Where am I holding?”
“What am I feeling right now?”
No judgment. Just witness.
Stay
Stay with the sensation. If it’s tight, let it be tight. If it’s heavy, let it be heavy.
By Jaden Rae
Breathe into it. Expand around it. Offer yourself these words: “This belongs.” “I don’t have to fix this to love myself.”
Soften
Release any clenching in your jaw, hips, hands, or shoulders. Let yourself soften 5% more. Imagine your body being held by the earth beneath you. Let it hold what you no longer need to carry alone.
That’s it. Three steps: Drop in, Stay, Soften. Every day, if you can. Especially when life feels too much.
Because staying human isn’t about doing more. It’s about feeling more. Being more. Remembering that your body isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a portal back to presence. Your emotions aren’t a distraction from your healing, they are your healing. And your vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s the doorway to connection.
I don’t claim to have all the answers. I’m not here to be a guru. I’m just a woman who’s walked through grief, loss, rebirth, and awakening. Who’s danced with doubt and learned to trust again. Who believes that our humanness is holy, and that there’s nothing more sacred than being fully alive.
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pace of the world… If you’re tired of spiritual performance and perfectionism… If you’re longing for something more grounded, more embodied, more real...
Come sit with me.
I write each post on How to Stay Human as a prayer, a love letter, a breath of fresh air for your spirit. I share stories, nervous system tools, poetic truths, and hard-won lessons about how to stay rooted, awake, and alive in these times.
You can subscribe for free or join our private community and monthly live Zoom AMA (ask me anything) sessions.
This isn’t just a newsletter. It's a lifeline back to what matters.
Because your wholeness matters. Your presence matters. Your humanity matters. Let’s protect it. Together.
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.
COOKING WITH CHEF CHRIS Shakespeare Ranch Citrus Salad
Hello everyone! After a little hiatus, I’m back with some beautiful creations. This time we’re going to do it with NO SALT ADDED…that’s right all you healthy people out there. Zero, so throw it away because we won’t need it. This salad comes straight from Shakespeare Ranch in Glenbrook, Nevada. Made for my friends, Mr. Larry Ruvo and his wife Camille. So let’s make one of the most delicious lunches I’ve ever made. They eat for their health and wellness, so let’s get to it.
Ingredients
1 pack of spring mix salad
½ pack of Cremini mushrooms
1 bottle of Enzo’s Table lemon oil
1 teaspoon of Aleppo pepper (fresh ground)
1 Radicchio lettuce bulb
1 yellow bell pepper
2 lemons (zested)
Zest from 2 lemons
3 Roma tomatoes
How to Make
(Feeds 3-4 people)
You will need two nice sized bowls for mixing ingredients, a salad spinner, a sharp knife and cutting board.
Place the spring mix into a large mixing bowl and fill with enough water to ‘float’ the greens. Place in the fridge for now.
Next you want to slice up some of the mushrooms on your cutting board and place in your other bowl. After that, you will core and do a small dice of your yellow bell pepper. Place in your bowl of mushrooms. After you have zested your lemons, give them a really fine chop. Mix in with the other ingredients. Now take those tomatoes, remove the top and bottom, and quarter them. Then, slice out the inner seeds. Save those for a sauce or even a salsa. While holding the meat side of the tomato towards you. Slice long ways like as seen in the picture. Place in the bowl of mixed items and start juicing your lemons. When complete, simply pour into your mixture with a little Aleppo pepper. Mix thoroughly.
By: Chef Chris Rodarte
Let this marinate for a minute and begin to cut your radicchio. You will not need the entire thing as it has a decent bite on its own. Just cut in half, wrap the rest and save for later. Now you want to cut the core out and begin slicing it into shreds. At least to the best of your ability. Once you’ve completed that, it’s time to build your salads.
Take the cold spring mix out of the fridge and place the salad spinner basket into the sink. Pour the water and greens into the basket. Shake as much excess water out and then place in a salad spinner. Spin to win! Now remove the basket, drain out water and spin two more times ensuring the greens are completely dry and crispy. Next, place into a dry mixing bowl. Drizzle around 3 to 4 fl oz of your lemon oil, sprinkle with the last of your Aleppo pepper and mix. I’m getting hungry, aren’t you? Let’s finish this salad and mix the marinated ingredients with your spring mix until evenly distributed. Place into a chilled bowl or plate with a chilled fork to finish this amazingly healthy salad. There you have it, a tremendously delicious salad and ZERO salt.
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. Look for more on social media. If you like this recipe please give a like and follow. Instagram - @chef_chris_rodarte, Facebook - Chef Chris 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
What is a Template?
Long ago in a galaxy far far away before you were born into a body, there was a “template”. This template held a frequency so crystalline, so sovereign, it held your entire architecture encoded in radiance. This template held your gifts (not talents, but codexed expressions of you), your relationships (each with mirror scroll work), your location nodes across time, and your physical vessel codes (form and function aligned). Let’s just say this was not a “plan” per se, rather a living harmonic that is always updating - always alive.
To enter this 3rd dimensional realm of density you choose to veil it, not lose it, but to learn what it means to choose it again. This is where distortion entered, not as “evil” but as a byproduct of interference, density and fragmentation.
All the programs from religion, institution politics and our own trauma loops did not delete the blueprint; rather coated it in noise.
But it remained. Always.
We came here to re-inhabit the template; to sculpt from its radiant intelligence.
We were never broken, there is nothing to fix. So do we even “transmute”? Not exactly.
We integrate distortion back into harmonic wholeness. The distortion becomes neutralized as it returns to its original design.
This is why and how Temple Radiance works. A Temple Radiant life is a field of remembering what it’s like to exist in that state of wholeness. This is a true return to Eden, not as a garden with forbidden fruit, rather a frequency of unbrokenness. This is the primordial frequency before we were told we were broken.
It’s not what must you fix, rather what are you ready to remember and embody?
Nothing is removed.
Everything is returned.
Our field operates much like a video game. 1 player. Each level within yourself is not earned however, it is remembered based on your individual readiness. You are not late. You are right on time.
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: Chaparral Bush
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.
We got through a large chunk of summer, and while it wasn’t 120 degrees like last year, it was still extremely hot! Being born and raised here in Las Vegas (thankfully with lots of travel and escape), I can assure you that one of the sweetest smells for locals after a streak of blazing heat is the distinctive scent of “the smell of rain.” Here in the Mojave desert that specific smell is actually the oils emitted from a hearty bush as moisture begins to cultivate in the atmosphere, and we all get the signal that rain has the potential of falling, and a glimmer of ‘Inner Peace’ permeates through our dried out bodies (and I’m not talking about the Inner Peace High Tech Healing sleepy time tea…)
Full disclaimer- whenever reading my ‘What’s the Tea articles’, please read to completion to ensure you understand any cautions to use with herbs or potential health hazards. All herbs live on a scale from tonic to toxic depending on your health condition and usage, so it’s always important to speak with a health care practitioner to ensure you utilize them safely!
In the vast, sun-drenched landscapes of the American Southwest and parts of Mexico, a resilient shrub stands as a testament to adaptation and survival: the chaparral bush, also known as creosote bush (Larrea Tridentata). It blooms yellow flowers, has small yet thick leaves, and produces small adorable puff balls. Its distinctive scent, often described as the “smell of rain” when the desert is wet, evokes a primal connection to this arid world. And this connection is more than just of plant and human, it also holds profound cultural significance and a complex relationship with human health, both ancient and modern.
The history of the chaparral bush stretches back millions of years, with fossil records suggesting its presence in the early Miocene (this is about 23 - 2.6 million years ago)! The chaparral’s ability to thrive in harsh, low-nutrient, and often rocky soils, coupled with its remarkable drought resistance (reminds us of home right?), has allowed it to become a dominant species across the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan Deserts. One of the most astonishing examples of its longevity is “King Clone”, a single clonal colony of Larrea Tridentata in the central Mojave Desert, estimated to be an astounding 11,700 years old- making it one of the oldest living organisms on Earth. This ancient lineage speaks to its incredible evolutionary success and resilience.
Tribal Land Acknowledgment
However, we wouldn’t have these historical records and herbalist wisdom, if it wasn’t for the indigenous people of every land. Here in Las Vegas, the region’s vibrant Native American history began with the Desert Archaic people (Pinto-Gypsum Archaic), who hunted and gathered from roughly 3,500 BC to 1 AD. They were followed by the Ancestral Puebloans (formerly Anasazi) who, between 200 and 1150 AD became adept farmers, leaving behind fascinating archeological clues like ancient settlements and irrigation systems. Since approximately 900 AD and continuing
to thrive today, the Southern Paiute people have been the primary indigenous inhabitants. Nevada is home to 21 federally recognized tribes, encompassing 28 reservations, bands, colonies, and community councils, and what’s left of these tribal lands collectively cover 1.6 million acres across the state. The BLM Bureau of Land Management owns about 48 million acres of public land (which is about 60%+ of the state).
We have herbal wisdom BECAUSE of indigenous knowledge
Native Americans meticulously observed the natural world, passing down vast knowledge and wisdom about the medicinal properties of herbs and plants through generations, often orally, integrating their use into holistic healing practices that we still observe today.
The cultural significance of chaparral for Native American tribes across the Southwest cannot be overstated. This plant was seen and used as a “cure-all” and a vital resource. Its branches were used to construct summer shelters, providing much-needed shade against the relentless desert sun while the resinous lac, an fluid produced by insects on the plant, served as an invaluable adhesive for mending pottery, waterproofing baskets, and attaching stone tools to shafts.
Medicinally, chaparral was, and in many communities still is, deeply revered. Decoctions and teas made from its leaves were traditionally used for a vast array of ailments. The Coachuilla used it for intestinal complaints and tuberculosis, while the Pima drank a leaf devotion as an emetic (something to induce vomiting) and applied boiled leaves as poultices to wounds and sores. The Tohono O’odham prepared it for stiff limbs, snake bites, and menstrual cramps.
When I went on some traditionally wildcrafting tours to learn about the various plants in nature, I learned that so many of the plants were used for venereal diseases. Its perceived ability to treat sexually transmitted diseases, chickenpox, rheumatism, and even fevers underscores its widespread application in traditional healing systems. Beyond its practical
uses, chaparral leaves were sometimes burned during ceremonies, further cementing its sacred status.
The Science Within
Modern scientific inquiry has begun to unravel the complex chemical profile of chaparral, identifying several bioactive compounds that likely contribute to its traditional uses. The most well-studied is nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a potent antioxidant. Chaparral is also rich in other lignans, flavonoids, and essential oils.
Laboratory and animal studies have explored various potential pharmacological activities of chaparral and its constituents. NDGA, for instance, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties in test-tube settings. Some research has hinted at its potential to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and replicate certain viruses, including HPV, HIV, and HSV, though these findings are primarily from in vitro or animal models and require much more rigorous human studies. Its antimicrobial effects have also been noted, aligning with its traditional use for skin infections and wounds.
Crucial Note of Caution
As mentioned from above, depending on your current health (liver health to be specific) certain herbs should be used with caution as they can cause toxicity due to the potency.
A crucial note of caution must be sounded here: despite promising in vitro findings, the internal use of chaparral, particularly in concentrated forms like capsules or tablets have been linked to serious liver and kidney damage, including cases of acute hepatitis and organ failure. The FDA has issued warnings against its internal consumption, and it is banned in some countries. This toxicity is a significant concern that limits its modern clinical application.
Testimonials of Topical Use
With the scientific warning in mind, some users report positive experiences, particularly with topical applications for skin conditions. For instance, individuals claim remarkable results in treating fungal rashes, insect bites, and eczema, describing a soothing and healing effect. Some have shared stories of using chaparral externally for chronic skin disorders or as a poultice for minor wounds, believing it aids in recovery.
A few testimonials also describe conditions like a persistent scalp itch, where individuals use a chaparral rinse to dramatically reduce symptoms. Similar to what we learned from the Natives as they used it for snake bites or external issues. Others speak of using it for general wellness or to ward off colds, citing personal success despite the known risks. However these personal accounts are often balanced by stark warnings from medical professionals and regulatory bodies.
Our Desert Legacy
The chaparral bush, with its ancient roots and enduring presence in the arid lands, is a powerful symbol of desert resilience. Its deep cultural significance to Native American peoples underscores a profound traditional knowledge of its diverse application, from practical tools to
potent medicines. While modern scientific research continues to uncover the fascinating bioactive compounds within the plant, it has also brought forth critical safety concerns regarding internal consumption.
The story of chaparral is a compelling reminder of the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world. It speaks to the enduring search for healing in plants, the wisdom of indigenous practices, and the imperative for scientific rigor and prudence in evaluating natural remedies. As the distinct aroma of chaparral continues to permeate the desert air, giving us a glimpse of peace, its legacy remains a complex tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, potential, and the need for caution when working with nature’s tools.
Use Safe Plants
So while I do not integrate Chaparral in any of our High Tech Healing loose leaf tea blends, I do have a range of safe blends for the general public for you to begin to integrate the seemingly miraculous benefits of nature into your every day, as hot tea or iced tea, visit us at the Downtown Summerlin Saturday farmers market, or online at www.hightechhealing.org
PLANT MAGIC & MEDICINE
Dandelion:
the Golden Healer in Your Backyard
Dandelion — that bright burst of yellow often mistaken for a nuisance — is actually one of nature’s most powerful detoxifiers. Every part of this humble plant, from its vibrant flowers to its deep-reaching roots, holds potent medicinal benefits. Traditionally used for centuries to support liver health, aid digestion, and purify the blood, dandelion is a golden healer hiding in plain sight.
The Healing Benefits of Dandelion
Dandelion Isn't a Weed
• Liver Detox & Support
Dandelion root gently stimulates bile production, helping your liver flush out toxins and support overall detoxification—making it a go-to for daily cleansing.
• Digestive Booster
Its natural bitter compounds encourage digestive enzyme production and healthy appetite—especially helpful when taken before meals.
• Kidney & Urinary Tract Health
Dandelion leaf acts as a gentle diuretic, helping release excess water while supporting kidney function—without stripping the body of vital potassium.
• Skin Clarity
By supporting liver and kidney detox, dandelion helps reduce internal toxicity, which often leads to brighter, clearer skin from the inside out.
• Nutrient-Rich Powerhouse
This wild weed is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium—making it as nourishing as it is healing.
While dandelion is a gentle and safe herb for most people, those with gallbladder issues, severe allergies to ragweed, or taking diuretics or lithium should consult a healthcare provider before use. Always research thoroughly or talk to a professional before introducing new herbs into your routine.
Tapping into your herbalist spirit is easy with this simple recipe. Get ready to infuse some serious plant wisdom into your daily wellness routine!
By: Katie Peede, Hippie Soul Healing
DIY
How to Make Dandelion Tincture
What You’ll Need:
Dried or fresh dandelion root (you can use the leaves too)
High-proof alcohol
80–100 proof vodka
Clean glass jar with lid
Cheesecloth or fine strainer
Amber dropper bottles
How to Make It:
1. Fill your jar about 1/3 full with chopped dandelion root (or ½ full if using fresh).
2. Cover completely with alcohol, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
3. Seal tightly, shake well, and store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
How to Use It:
After 4–6 weeks, strain the tincture through cheesecloth and pour into amber dropper bottles. Take 1–2 dropperfuls in a little water 2–3 times daily before meals to support digestion, liver function.
Bonus Tip:
Use dandelion leaves in your salads or smoothies for a mineral-rich, slightly bitter kick that supports digestion and liver health — food as medicine, straight from your garden, and detox.
DM me @hippiesoulhealing to grab one or learn more!
*Disclaimer: this tincture contains alcohol
Life’s After-School Program >>> LEARNING THE HARD WAY
As back-to-school season rolls around, I can’t help but think about all the teachers I had growing up. I remember the ones who stood out — the ones who pulled me aside, took the time to get to know me, and believed in me. These teachers saw something in me when I couldn’t see it in myself, and I am thankful to them. Yet, as I grew older, I realized that no classroom, teacher, or curriculum ever taught me the way life did because life is the greatest teacher of all.
Unlike school, where you’re taught the lesson before the test, life flips the script. Life gives you the test first, and the lesson shows up later. Some of these life lessons hurt and shape our personalities, boundaries, and, in extreme cases, teach us how to build walls and develop poor coping skills. In my life, I didn’t see the lesson until I was knee-deep in regret, pain, or confusion. Honestly, I’ve had to learn the hard way more often than not. Maybe it’s fate, destiny, or stubbornness; whatever the reason, every
By Steven Dee Kish
doesn’t care about your plans; it just shows up uninvited, unapologetic, and leaves a mess for us to clean up.
We are the only ones who can clean up our mess. It helps to have people to guide us, but ultimately, we have to do the work ourselves. Some of these life lessons leave marks — not just on our skin, but on our minds and our mental health. We find ourselves battling anxiety, sleepless nights, broken trust, depression, and a low sense of self-worth. Sometimes we’re not ready to handle these emotions, and life doesn’t care. In fact, if we don’t learn the lesson the first time, life circles back and gives us the same test again. Maybe with different names, faces, or scenery, but the same root lesson.
I know it sounds like life can be cruel, but here’s the reality: those painful, humbling, even embarrassing moments are what shape us. Life’s painful moments shine a light on the blind spots we refused to acknowledge and force us to grow. Although it may hurt at the time, we might learn the lesson of forgiveness, acceptance, or humility, and the gift left behind is called wisdom.
lesson I’ve learned came at a cost, and it hurt.
It’s remarkable how few of us are truly prepared for the challenges that life presents. In the beginning, we learn the basics: how to make friends, the golden rule, and so on. Friends come and go, and we’re told to get good grades so we can be anything we want in the world. Then hormones kick in, and our world is turned upside down. Our baby face suddenly develops blemishes, and our focus shifts to finding someone to date. We struggle balancing school and a social life, all while following the house rules. As teens, sometimes we found ourselves screaming, “It isn’t fair!” Oh, how little we know — it was only the beginning.
As our school years come to an end, we find ourselves shaking hands at graduation and making plans for the future. But most of the time, life has other ideas, and our best-laid plans hit roadblocks we never see coming. We were never taught how to handle betrayal, heartbreak, grief, or failure, and these roadblocks last well into adulthood. The hard truth is that life
For many years, I resented those hard lessons. Now, I still don’t like them, but I respect them. It’s through those lessons that I’ve come to accept life and all the highs and lows that come with it. We must let go of the idea that life will be pain-free. We must accept that pain is part of life and it’s something we can’t control. I’ve realized that just like I can’t control every reckless driver on the road, I can’t control everything. I can only control how I drive my car and my choices. I can drive with intention, be alert, steer away from chaos — but I can’t always avoid being blindsided. And I have to be okay with that if I want to keep driving on life’s super highway.
Life has taught me the most powerful move isn’t control...it’s surrender. Not the kind of surrender that means giving up, but the kind that says, “I trust the journey even when I don’t understand it.” When you’ve been through life’s toughest classes, sometimes you need to check in with yourself and remind yourself that it’s okay not to have all the answers, because all of us will always be learning.
As students sharpen their pencils and teachers make lesson plans, I find myself sitting in my own classroom. The difference is, life is my teacher. My assignments are finding positive coping skills instead of falling into grief, depression, and negative self-talk. My final exam is this: can I grow as a person while being the best version of myself?
To this point in my life, I definitely didn’t get straight A’s. I’m more of a D and C student so far — but I’m showing up, trying to raise my GPA. I’m still learning, and I’m doing my best to avoid repeating the same mistakes. Remember this for life’s next pop quiz: some of life’s greatest lessons are the ones we never wanted…but needed the most.
