wellness RE
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THE MAGAZINE THAT EXPLORES WELLNESS IN REAL ESTATE VOL 4 | ISSUE 5 MAY 2023
Creating a Calming Home with
Organic Modern Style
HEMP WOOD
Chemicals
Babies & Don't Mix:
A New Healthy EcoFriendly Wood Alternative Made of Hemp Fibers
BRINGING
How to Keep Your Home Safe and Non-Toxic for Your Little One
HEALTH
&
HOME
TOGETHER
EDITOR'S NOTES
"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot." - Michael Altshuler This quote reminds me that we each have the ability to prioritize what is important and to create a healthy home environment for ourselves and our loved ones. Time may fly by, but we have the power to create a safe and nurturing space that supports our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. As the pilot of our home, we can make intentional choices that promote health and happiness, such as incorporating natural light, decluttering, fostering positive relationships, and practicing self-care. By taking charge of our home environment, we can create a sanctuary that enhances our lives and brings us joy.
Sheila Alston Founder & Editor of Wellness Real Estate Magazine™ & HealthyHOME™ Magazine
Together, we are making the world a healthier place, one home at a time.
04 Recipe of the Month 05 Garden Organization
MAY 2023 VOL.4 ISSUE 5
08 DID YOU KNOW?
FOUNDER & EDITOR
10 Babies and Chemicals Don't Mix | How to Keep Your Home Safe and Non-Toxic for Your Little One
Sheila Alston
14 Creating a Calming Home with Organic Modern Style
COPY EDITOR Sabrina Aguilar
16 Bug Off! Keeping Pests Away With All Natural Solutions
GRAPHICS DESIGN Sheila Alston & Sabrina Aguilar
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Klecker Cassy West Heather Christo Jolene Nannette Leonard Steinberg Lucy Chatman Michelle Ifversen Sabrina Aguilar Sheila Alston
HELLO I S S U E
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20 Soil - the good the bad and the ugly 24 Feature: Pine Dove Farms 29 Spotlight - Heather Schmidt 32 Hemp Wood - A New Healthy Eco-Friendly Wood Flooring Choice Made From Hemp Fibers 39 Glossary of Terms 40 Wellness Agent Directory
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Honeycrisp Chicken Poppyseed Salad Cups Heather says "Honestly all I can think about is comfort food – mostly chocolate and pumpkin baked goods and everything sweet and naughty, LOL. I thought that I would share a nice light recipe with you! Because, balance, right? If I am going to be eating all dessert all the time, I have to mix in some healthy, easy and tasty recipes too! This Honeycrisp Chicken Poppyseed Salad is just the ticket! I was thinking about what to do with a roast chicken that we had in the fridge (my kids were a little “souped” out, so I was trying to think what else we could have. Also, how often do you have a rotisserie chicken that you buy and then have leftovers on and you are not sure what to do with it? This happens to me quite a bit. Here is an awesome answer for easy lunches or quick, healthy snacks." https://heatherchristo.com/2019/10/30/h oneycrisp-chicken-poppyseed-salad/
Heather Christo is a classically trained turned Allergen-Free celebrity chef who makes eating healthy a delicious way of life. 2017 James Beard Award Nominee for her amazing cookbook PURE DELICIOUS page 04
With the wildflower explosion over the past month, putting extra effort into our home garden has become a priority. It’s easy for our outdoor space to become neglected over the winter, but as we move through spring it is time to focus on getting organized for summer. Paying attention to how you traditionally have used your outdoor space and your goals for how you wish to spend those glorious days of summer enjoying your yard should help you focus on your garden to-do list. By, Jolene Nannette
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PRIORITIZE YOUR TASK LIST Think back to last spring and summer and reflect on how you used your space. Did you spend time entertaining? Playing with the family? Relaxing with a cup of coffee in the early morning sun? Or if any of these suggestions spurred wistful daydreams, focus your task list with those items in mind. For example, our family enjoys entertaining in our garden. Our task list includes weeding the flower beds, laying new mulch, checking the propane levels on our fire pit and taking inventory of outdoor dishes/blankets.
THROW OUT BROKEN ITEMS The yard can easily become an accidental burial ground for kid toys, leftover party items, trash blown in by the wind, etc. Walk your yard with a trash bag and throw away any items that cannot be used again. Examine your outdoor toy/game storage area and discard broken toys or ones that are missing key pieces.
ORGANIZE OUTDOOR ITEMS TOGETHER Consolidate outdoor entertaining items into one location. Summer get-togethers will be more enjoyable if you prepare for planned as well as spontaneous gatherings. We like to keep backyard toys in one easily accessible location, outdoor reusable dishes clean and stored with outdoor linens and blankets, and one spare propane tank in the garage. We are much more likely to enjoy our backyard space when we are organized.
CHOOSE A SUMMER BACKYARD GOAL Set one backyard goal for the summer. Whether it is replacing some plants that have been looking worn, spending more time relaxing outside, or planning a fun summer barbeque, take time to name and write down the goal in order to make it happen. Figure out what steps will make you successful. For example, if your goal is to spend more time relaxing outdoors, perhaps consider investing in a hammock or comfortable outdoor chair. Be intentional about meeting your goal.
ENJOY THE SUN AND EXERCISE Enjoy the sunshine and physical exercise that comes with working in your garden. After a cold and rainy winter/spring season, remember to appreciate how nice it is to be outside. And use that motivation to make your outdoor space ready for summer.
Investing in your garden during this sunny time of year will help you be more prepared for summer. Being intentional about your goals for how you want to spend those warm months will help you make the most of the nice weather. And being purposeful about keeping your outdoor space organized will allow for more time to enjoy your home. page 06
By, Jolene Nannette Home by Jolene Jolene Nannette is a specialist in home efficiency, tackling to-do lists and calming the chaos through home organization. www.homebyjolene.com
"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals." - Zig Ziglar
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DID YOU KNOW? Leonard Steinberg started a firestorm in the real estate profession when he joined the small start-up technologyfocused New York-based brokerage Urban Compass as company President in mid-2014 after 17 years in the industry. The 50-person company has mushroomed in just 6 years to a 20,000-person, nationally recognized brand called Compass with over 325 offices throughout the USA and $91 billion in sales volume in 2019. It is now the third-largest privately held brokerage in the USA. Leonard has always remained in daily brokerage and changed his title to Chief Evangelist in 2018 as Compass adapted to include several regional presidents. He embodies the new breed of modern real estate professional who provides substantive knowledge about all aspects of real estate with over two decades of experience and several billion dollars in sales. Each day he sends a Compasswide journal he calls Compass Contemplations. This section, called DID YOU KNOW? is full of quick real estate and other related news you may not have heard. Leonard has kindly agreed to share his news with the readers of WellnessRE Magazine.
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Real Estate in the News from one of America's Top Brokers: Leonard Steinberg
April 23, 2023 DID YOU KNOW: Seventeen 30-foot-tall trees were craned over the Domino Sugar Refinery’s brick walls and into the “vertical garden” atop the soon-to-befinished 46,000sf space rooftop garden. The office space is set inside a glass sleeve about 15ft away from the historic brick walls, with the lush indoor garden filling the space between. A huge glass dome will enclose the top floors of the 141-year-old building, operated as a sugar factory until 2004.
April 16, 2023 DID YOU KNOW? There are multiple tax breaks you can get related to improving your home's efficiency. Here are some: Solar panels, or photovoltaics, for generating electricity Solar-powered water heaters for water used inside the home (at least half of the home's water-heating capacity must be solar and water for swimming pools and hot tubs doesn't qualify) Wind turbines that generate up to 100 kilowatts of electricity for residential use Geothermal heat pumps that meet federal Energy Star guidelines Fuel cells that rely on a renewable resource (usually hydrogen) to generate power for a home (minimum 0.5 kilowatts of power generation capacity) Battery storage technologies. Window replacement. Speak to your accountant!
April 15, 2023 DID YOU KNOW: People 55 and older are the fastest-growing segment of the workforce, according to federal data. Demographic shifts help explain the trend—people are living longer and having fewer children— and some retirement-age folks have little choice but to work because of inflation and a weak stock market. But certain businesses are targeting seniors on the premise that age is an asset. The AARP since 2012 has asked companies to sign a pledge to give workers over 50 a fair shot in hiring. Commitments rose 122% last year, compared with 2021, (WSJ) April 8, 2023 DID YOU KNOW? * Made in America? Yup! Manufacturing is returning to the USA: Construction spending related to manufacturing was $108 billion in 2022, 36% higher than 2021 and more than double that of 2008....much of it a response to the awakening of supply-chain challenges experienced during and after the pandemic. Lots of new manufacturing is related to the growing Green Energy sector: Tesla alone has built close to 20 MILLION square feet of manufacturing facilities in the US in the past decade, the biggest driver of conversion from fossil fuel vehicles (over 2 million sold). The biggest challenge? Staffing! About 800,000 jobs await. What might take 50-75 employees to manufacture outside the US is being built by 10-12 in the US via automation...to keep costs down. (WSJ) April 3, 2023 DID YOU KNOW? The average American drove 4% fewer miles in 2022 than in 2019.
Leonard Steinberg Chief Evangelist at Compass
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Babies & Chemicals Don't Mix: How to Keep Your Home Safe and Non-Toxic for Your Little One
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As a parent, creating a safe and healthy environment for your baby is a top priority. One of the most overlooked ways to achieve this is by keeping toxic materials out of the nursery the begin with. While no one would consciously bring anything potentially harmful home on purpose, often it's because we are unaware that there could be potentially dangerous chemicals off-gassing around baby from the clothes, toys and furnishings we bring into the home. Fortunately, there are many new products and great choices available that ensure you are giving your baby the best start.
Benefits of Natural and Non-Toxic Furnishings There are several benefits to using natural and non-toxic furnishings in your baby's nursery. For starters, natural materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and wool are free of harmful chemicals and synthetic materials. They are also hypoallergenic and breathable, which can help reduce the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory issues. In addition, using non-toxic furnishings can help reduce indoor air pollution and promote a healthier environment for your baby.
Products to Avoid When choosing furnishings for your baby's nursery, there are certain products you should avoid. For example, avoid products made with synthetic materials, such as polyester, as they can contain harmful chemicals such as flame retardants and formaldehyde. You should also avoid products that are heavily treated with chemicals, such as mattresses treated with flame retardants or stain-resistant chemicals.
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Here are some tips and ideas for finding nontoxic baby items and what to watch out for: Look for certifications: Look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Green Guard Gold Certified products and OEKOTEX® Standard 100 when purchasing baby items. These certifications ensure that the product has been tested and certified to be free from harmful chemicals and substances. Do your research on brands and their materials before making a purchase. Check out their websites and read up on their materials and manufacturing processes. Look for brands that prioritize natural and non-toxic materials and intentionally avoid using harmful chemicals in their products.
Read Labels and Beware of Greenwashing: Since organic is now big business, many companies are greenwashing their products and using marketing language and colors to make consumers believe they are healthy so it's important to read ingredients and if there are names you can't pronounce, it's best to avoid until you can do more research. Many toxins are neuro and hormone disrupters and DO NOT belong near your tiny baby. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can be harmful when inhaled, and they are present in many household materials like paint, carpeting, and flooring. To minimize exposure to VOCs, look for products labeled as low-VOC or VOC-free. Formaldehyde is another common organic compound found in everyday items. While it's true that formaldehyde may not be listed on an ingredients list or supply list, there are other terms that can indicate its presence. Look out for terms such as "urea formaldehyde," "phenol formaldehyde," and "melamine formaldehyde." These are all types of formaldehyde-based adhesives that are commonly used in furniture and other household items. Be sure to wash new items before bringing them into the nursery and ensure proper ventilation. According to switchnatural.com “Chemicals cannot simply be “washed” out of pajamas. The law requires garments to remain flame retardant after 50 washes.” Instead, opt for clothing with the OEKO-TEX label. Avoid plastic products that contain PFAS chemicals, and choose organic, natural materials instead. Flame retardants, often found in carpets and curtains, can also cause health problems. Opt for bedding and flooring without these chemicals. PVC and phthalates, used in plastics, can have detrimental effects on babies and children. Choose phthalate-free products and avoid vinyl. Finally, check for lead and other heavy metals in toys and décor, and buy products made in the USA to reduce the risk of exposure.
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Choose Natural and Non-Toxic Furnishing Options There are several natural and non-toxic furnishing options to choose from when designing your baby's nursery. For example, consider using organic cotton sheets, bamboo or wool rugs, and solid wood furniture finished with natural oils or waxes. These materials are generally free from harmful chemicals and are hypoallergenic and breathable. You can also choose a natural or organic crib mattress made with materials such as organic cotton or natural latex. Several online stores specialize in eco-friendly and nontoxic baby products, and I've listed some of them below. Growing demand for safer baby products means that new products and companies are popping up every day. Do your own research and read labels carefully to ensure that the products you choose are truly non-toxic and safe for your baby. Here are some great brands you should check out that will help get you started: Baby Letto - Green Guard Gold Certified Furniture https://babyletto.com/pages/about-us Modern Nursery carries various eco-friendly brands with various certifications for furnishings https://www.modernnursery.com/collections/ecofriendly-furniture My Green Mattress - Natural Latex Crib Mattress: https://www.mygreenmattress.com/just-for-baby/ Branch Basics - Non-toxic cleaners https://branchbasics.com/blogs/home/how-to-create-anon-toxic-nursery-for-baby
How do you know if your baby is being affected by toxins? It can be difficult to determine if a baby is displaying allergy symptoms to something in the home, especially if they are too young to communicate their discomfort. Here are some common signs and symptoms of allergies in babies to look out for:
Skin irritation: Allergies can often cause skin irritation such as rashes, hives, or eczema. These symptoms may appear as small red bumps or patches on the skin and can be itchy or uncomfortable for the baby. Respiratory issues: Allergies can also affect the respiratory system and cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or wheezing. If you notice your baby is having trouble breathing or is breathing rapidly, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.
Digestive issues: Some babies may experience digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, or colic due to allergies. If you notice your baby has frequent bowel movements or seems to be in pain or discomfort after feeding, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider.
Behavioral changes: Allergies can also cause changes in a baby's behavior. They may become fussy, irritable, or have trouble sleeping. If you notice any significant changes in your baby's behavior or mood, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider. If you suspect your baby may be displaying allergy symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for guidance. They may recommend allergy testing or suggest changes to your home environment or baby's diet to help alleviate symptoms. Keeping a journal of your baby's symptoms and noting any potential triggers can also be helpful in determining the cause of their allergies. One thing is for sure; however, by creating a nearly toxinfree home environment, you are lightening the toxic load on your child's immune system, and giving your baby a better chance to overcome these issues. As you choose natural and non-toxic furnishings for your baby's nursery, feel good knowing you are creating a healthier and safer environment for your little one. Avoiding synthetic materials and products treated with harmful chemicals reduces the risk of skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory issues. Plus, using natural materials can help reduce indoor air pollution and promote a healthier living space and that's great for everyone in your family. By, Sheila Alston Founder HealthyHOME™ Media
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Creating a Calming Home with Organic Modern Style In today's fast-paced world, creating a calming living space is more important than ever. Organic modern style offers a way to do just that, with its emphasis on natural materials, greenery, and simplicity. Let's explore the key elements of organic modern design and offer tips on how to use them to create a peaceful and harmonious home.
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The organic modern style is a popular design aesthetic that combines natural elements and clean lines to create a sophisticated and harmonious living space. Here are some additional tips and ideas that you may find useful when planning your own organic modern abode:
Emphasize natural materials: One of the defining characteristics of organic modern design is the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal. These materials are often left in their natural state or minimally processed to highlight their unique texture and color.
Incorporate plants and greenery: Plants and greenery are a key component of organic modern design. They not only add visual interest and texture but also provide numerous health benefits. Consider incorporating hanging plants, potted plants, and even a living wall into your design.
Keep it simple: Organic modern design is all about simplicity and clean lines. Avoid clutter and unnecessary ornamentation, and focus on creating a space that feels calm and uncluttered.
Play with textures: Texture is an important element of organic modern design. Consider using a variety of textures such as woven fabrics, rough-hewn wood, and smooth metal to add depth and interest to your space.
Use neutral colors: Neutral colors such as white, beige, and gray are a staple of organic modern design. They create a calming and soothing atmosphere that highlights the natural beauty of the materials used in your design.
Don't forget about lighting: Lighting is an important element in any interior design, and organic modern is no exception. Consider using natural light as much as possible and incorporating simple, modern light fixtures that complement the overall design of your space.
Mix old and new: Organic modern design is all about blending the old and the new. Consider incorporating vintage or antique pieces alongside modern furniture and decor to create a unique and eclectic space. By following these tips and incorporating them into your own home, you can create a fresh inviting living space that is both stylish, and functional, and brings more peace and calm into your modern-day life.
By, Lucy Chatman Staff Writer for HealthyHOME Media
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Bug-OFF! Keeping Pests Away with All-Natural Solutions By: Amanda Klecker, www.healthyhouseontheblock.com
I’m going to be really honest with you and tell you that one thing that REALLY grosses me out is mice being in spaces they shouldn’t. Even seeing a mouse run across our porch this winter gives me that creepy feeling. I realize they’re just a part of nature, but they’re a part of nature I’d like to keep IN nature and not in my house. The same is true of bugs, spiders and ants. But you know me, I’m not going to just put anything in my house — so I’ve opted to use a natural bug repellent to keep my family safe. Living in Minnesota, we live in homes with basements and we have seasons where bugs and animals want to get out of the cold and get inside. We know that in the cold fall months it’s time for us to ramp up security around our house to make sure mice don’t find their way inside. In the spring when the snow has melted and we’re opening windows and doors for our fresh air, we are then on the lookout for spiders and ants getting in, which is when the natural bug repellent gets used the most. For years we just used the store-bought sprays and sprayed them around the perimeter of our house. It didn’t click with me JUST how toxic it was to bring these chemicals inside until my first daughter was crawling and playing on the floor. It was from that moment I knew that natural bug repellent was going to be a much safer option for our family. page 16
WHY KEEP BUGS AND MICE OUT OF YOUR HOME Other than the obvious reasons for keeping bugs and mice out of your home (because it’s yucky and gross), there are even more health reasons to keep them outside where they belong. First, let’s talk bugs — spiders, moths, ants. These are all things we usually try desperately to keep out of the house — mostly just by instinct, but there’s actually a good reason to keep them out. Besides making your house feel unclean, introducing outside insects and bugs to your home can introduce germs, pesticides from the outside and other chemicals into your home. Not to mention, bugs that end up inside can negatively affect things like your electrical box, furnace or water heater if they decide to make a home inside. Bugs also attract rodents and animals who eat these bugs, which makes your home their new restaurant. If you live in an area where there are more aggressive insects and bugs like carpenter ants or moths that chew through clothing and fabrics, then you’ll really want to keep them out of your house to protect your structure and your stuff. Second, there’s mice. Mice carry disease, bacteria and germs to the inside of your home. They’re extremely unsanitary and kids and pets can get really sick as they tend to spend more time on the floor and have poor hand to mouth habits (CDC info on Disease from Rodents). Some mice also carry antibiotic resistant bacteria, which can negatively affect your body and immune system. (STUDY)
TOXINS IN MOST BUG AND MICE REPELLENTS Before you go and get a can of bug spray to bring inside or stock up on store bought mice repellents, it’s important to know exactly what is in these products. Most bug sprays contain synthetic pesticides. This means the pesticides are man-made using chemicals to kill and repel bugs and mice from your home. Pesticides are a dangerous solution to bring into your home for a number of reasons. Some pesticides can interfere with the natural hormone production in our bodies and can lead to negative effects on the reproductive system. (STUDY). Studies have shown that prenatal exposure of pesticides has been linked to birth defects in infants as well. And the big one for me is this study that links compromised immune systems in infants in children to pesticide exposure. Let’s be completely honest here and recognize that pesticides are basically a poison that you’re bringing into your home. It’s intent is to kill off bugs and insects, and the overspray residue from that can be left on surfaces you’re not even aware of. The same is true of poisons used to kill mice and other rodents. If you have pets, I BEG you not to put these toxins anywhere in your house or garage. When our sweet dog was about 5 she somehow got into an old tray of mouse poison in our garage and we had to rush her to an emergency clinic to be treated. She ended up being fine, but if we hadn’t caught it immediately, she wouldn’t have made it. Rodent poison is extremely toxic and can be deadly to pets and children. And mousetraps? You’re still bringing those diseases, bacteria and germs we talked about before into your house — and now you have to remove a dead mouse. No thanks. page 17
NATURAL BUG REPELLENT YOU CAN COUNT ON Natural bug repellent is really the way to go. It takes the approach of keeping bugs and insects out of the house and in nature where they can really benefit the ecosystem. I love the idea of naturally keeping bugs at bay without introducing chemicals, poison or toxins into my home. Natural bug repellent is exactly the type of thing I had wanted to find when I was looking to clean up our home. For a while I tried making my own bug spray, but to be honest, I wasn’t comfortable spraying peppermint oil around inside my home with pets and small kids around. When EarthKind contacted me to ask if I’d like to try out their system, I said YES! After researching their products and the ingredients, I’m even MORE impressed with their system. First, they only use oils, herbs and plants that come from local and small family farms. These farms use traditional and sustainable farming practices, making their ingredients safe for your family to use. Their natural bug repellent for spiders not only repels spiders, but it also repels the insects that spiders feed on. This is the way to go when you’re looking to get rid of spiders as it gets rid of the whole REASON they’re in your home in the first place.
NATURAL MICE REPELLENT THAT ACTUALLY WORKS We’ve kept natural mice repellent pouches in our garage to prevent any from coming into our home as that seems to be their easiest path. EarthKind has their natural rodent repellent that is made from natural botanical products. It contains natural fragrance oils including balsam fir, which is a natural, botanical pesticide as opposed to synthetic pesticides. You can use these pouches for 30-60 days, depending on the temperature of where you see them and how big the space is. You can also add these pouches to the EarthKind Pouch Pod to extend the life of the product. I absolutely love these as I feel SO much better knowing if my kids happened to pick one up or be in close proximity with the bag, they are COMPLETELY SAFE. There is no questionable ingredient in these natural rodent repellent pouches. Plus, like I mentioned above, they get all of the ingredients from local, small family farms. This is MY kind of product — I love supporting small businesses whenever I can.
Picture Credit: Earthkind
Earthkind uses natural pouches that can last 30 days in an enclosed space (they’re not necessarily recommended for outdoor use). If you want your pouch to last longer, you can get one of their pouch pods — this keeps the pouches fresh for more like 90 days, plus they keep the pouch out of the reach of kiddos. And I didn’t even realize it, but you can buy most of the EarthKind products right at Target or hardware stores. You can also get them off Amazon or directly from their Earth Kind Stay Away Store online. The natural bug repellent formula they use is made up from natural oils such as Rosemary, Lemongrass, and Citronella for spiders and insects. This is the one I use the most often. I also plan to use their Ant natural bug repellent once this snow starts melting. Every year we combat ants before they get in and we’ve done a pretty good job of keeping our house ant-free. I’m so excited to use the Stay Away Ants pod this year and feel good about having a safe product in my home. page 18 Picture Credit: Earthkind
OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP YOUR HOME Besides using a natural bug repellent, you can also do some prevention on your own to keep bugs and spiders out of your home. Seal Up Your Home: Go around your home and make sure there aren’t any openings that rodents or bugs can get in. Be sure to check areas near roof lines, around doors and windows and at the foundation of the home. Keep Doors Closed: Easier said than done when you have kids, I know. I feel like I’m constantly asking them to close the door after they go outside or come inside. You can install self-closing hinges on doors to garages if you choose to help the door swing shut after it’s opened. Vacuum & Dust: Keeping your home clean and free from food sources for bugs, insects and rodents will help keep them out of your house altogether. Make sure you’re vacuuming forgotten places where cobwebs can start and really doing a deep clean on a regular basis. Often these pests aren’t out in the open or in areas that are cleaned regularly. They tend to make their way to corners and nooks and crannies that aren’t often visited. Keep the Garage in Check: If you have an attached garage, this can be a great place to prevent mice and bugs by keeping it clean and free of openings as it’s like a gateway to your home. Keep seals on the bottom of your garage doors to prevent mice from coming in all winter long.
Blog Credit Amanda Klecker from www.healthyhouseontheblock.com is a contributing writer for WellnessRE™. She has an extensive blog on her site with hundreds of tips on how to create a healthier home and has given us permission to share her blog posts with our readers. Follow her on Instagram too! @healthyhouseontheblock
Amanda Klecker, Certified Building Biology Advocate & Certified Professional Inspector
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SOIL the good, the bad and the ugly
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The good… Across the world, soil provides a major source of nutrients to our food supply and acts as a natural filter to remove contaminants from our water and air. Quality, nutrient-rich soil can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase drought resilience, boost crop yield, and provide pollinator habitats to thousands of species, according to the Soil Health Institute.
…the bad and the ugly…
Soil health has a direct impact on human health and the planet
The bad news is that most of the earth’s top soil contains heavy metals and human-made pathogens that have the potential to negatively impact human health and the environment. Quality soil is degrading at an alarming rate all over the planet due to soil erosion, loss of soil structure but mainly due to mismanaged farming. Because of intense cultivation, deforestation and overgrazing, nitrogen stores in soil has decreased 42 percent, phosphorus by 27 percent, and sulfur by 33 percent, according to the National Library of Medicine. Trace minerals in vegetable crops, including manganese, zinc, copper, and nickel, have decreased over the last several decades, while toxic minerals like aluminum, lead, and cadmium and arsenic (metalloid) have all increased. More recent studies have found pharmaceutical drugs and ‘forever chemicals’ in our soil. Some of these water-soluble drugs and forever chemicals (PFAB) have been found in some vegetables because they can travel through the roots of plants, mainly leafy greens and carnivorous vegetables.
With the ubiquitous nature of toxic chemicals in our soil and environment it is becoming more and more difficult to find safe, nutrient-rich food.
So, what can we do? Growing your own vegetable garden or joining a local community garden (CSA) ensures for safer, healthier food without contaminants. If you don’t have the time or the space for a garden, then buying nutrient-rich, organic food from your local area is very important. This ensures that you are eating foods that are ‘in season’ and free from contamination due to questionable handling and transportation from far away places that do not meet strict USDA Organic standards. page 21
Easy ways to improve the soil in your garden Create raised beds for vegetables and fruits and add clean nutrient-rich soil from a reputable source.
Add high-organic carbon sources, like compost, peat, and manure from local sources.
Regularly aerate your garden and add minimally processed natural mulch like leaves and organic matter. Irrigate with filtered water, rain water or well water, if possible - tap water may contain PFAS and defeats the purpose of improving the soil. Consider adding live worms to help aerate and oxygenate the soil in your garden. The worm casings provide excellent sources of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus.
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Adding Earthworms to Create Healthier Soil
Consider a Worm Farm at home! Both Gardeners Supply (pictured left) and EarthEasy (right) sell “Worm Farm Composters” for the home.
Picture Credit: Earth Easy
The following US companies will ship live earthworms directly to your door.
Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm - Pennsylvania Warms4Earth - Florida MidwestWorms - Missouri EarthWorm Soil Factory - California Work Hard Worms - Texas
Cassy West Design Well to Live Well Eco Friendly Interior Designer &Wellness Real Estate Agent in Massachusetts and Florida
Picture Credit: Gardeners Supply
Blog Credit: Cassy West from www.wellnessbydezign.com is a contributing writer for WellnessRE™ and has given us permission to share her blog posts with our readers. Visit her site to read more of her design tips on how to create a healthier home.
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Transforming Lives Through Healthy Living Pine Dove Farms and Their Impact on Tallahassee Residents By, Sheila Alston
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FEATURED COMMUNITY
Today, more and more people are searching for healthier ways of living, and the agrihood is becoming a trend in residential development that aims to provide a new option for healthconscious homeowners. An agrihood is a planned community built around a community farm and one of the pioneers of this type of development is Pine Dove Farms, located in Tallahassee, Florida. We had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Wynn, the marketing agent for Pine Dove Farms, on our latest podcast. Michael shared with us the journey of developing this community, which started in 2016. At the time, the idea of creating a sustainable, planned agricultural community was a radical departure from the typical residential neighborhood development that was usually centered around a golf course or community center. Michael shared that the community faced much resistance from the county developers, who were skeptical of putting a farm in the middle of a neighborhood, after all, no one had done this before in the area. But with a lot of hard work and determination, Pine Dove Farms is now in its second phase of development, and it's clear that the communities intention to design a community that prioritizes wellness is paying off. Current residents love the easy farm-to-table lifestyle and the concept has attracted people from all over the nation to become residents of this charming farm-to-table community. page 25
As you drive into Pine Dove Farms, the first thing you'll notice is the one-and-a-half-acre working organic and sustainable farm that has been designed and developed to have vegetables, fruits, and even chickens and roosters that lay farm fresh eggs for the residents and surrounding community. Michael shared with us that the climate in north Florida is perfect for growing many fruits and vegetables, which allows them to have rich soil and produce that is well-suited for the environment.
But Pine Dove Farms is not just about sustainable agriculture. The community has been intentionally designed to promote wellness and a healthy lifestyle. The developers have created spaces for residents to exercise, such as jogging trails and bike paths. There are also community gardens where residents can grow their own vegetables and fruits. Their second and third phases of development will include an education center where they will have workshops where to provide farming education and inspiration to learn about sustainability and to learn about the different things that you can do at home for a clean, healthy lifestyle. They also plan to build a paddle barn and kayak launch area where neighbors can rent a kayak or paddle boat to have some fun on the water.
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Photo credit: Pine Dove Farms
What I find inspiring about Pine Dove Farms is that because the developer has prioritized the well-being of its residents, they made many planning decisions that ultimately benefit the resident and support healthier living.
For instance, instead of squeezing as many houses as possible onto a small piece of land, the developers of Pine Dove Farms have set aside 60% of the total 200 acres to open space that will be there for Pine Dove Farms residents to enjoy for generations to come. Imagine the difference between walking around the block of a typical suburban neighborhood versus walking along hiking trails surrounded by lush greenery on your way to your neighborhood farmers market. As we look to the future of residential development, it is evident that communities like Pine Dove Farms are becoming increasingly more and more popular. As people realize the importance of living in harmony with the environment and prioritizing their health and wellness, the demand will only grow. And developers who prioritize these values are leading the way. To learn more about Pine Dove Farms, check out their website at www.pinedovefarm.com.
By, Sheila Alston Founder HealthyHOME™ Media
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"Spread love everywhere you go." - Mother Teresa
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Business SPOTLIGHT: Heather Schmidt
When Your Home Won't Sell A new option for sellers to try before reducing the price (again)... By Sheila Alston
As the real estate market continues to evolve, many agents are finding new ways to set themselves apart and better serve their clients. One such agent is Heather Schmidt, a wellness-focused real estate professional in Chicago, Illinois who has been helping clients find their dream homes for years. Her unique approach has also helped many sellers in her area whose homes have sat on the market, unable to sell.
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"Your environment affects your overall wellbeing, so bringing a holistic approach to real estate feels natural & logical." - Heather Schmidt
Heather's philosophy is simple: she believes that a healthy home is a happy home. With that in mind, she has made it her mission to connect her clients with professionals who can help them create a more holistic living space. Whether it's simply asking the right questions to get a real understanding of the needs of her clients or finding an eco-friendly contractor, Heather is always thinking about the health and well-being of her clients.
One of the ways Heather stands out from other real estate agents is her training in Reiki. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing. Heather uses this technique to clear negative energy in a home, which has helped her clients sell properties that had been on the market for months. By addressing the energy in a home, Heather creates a more positive environment that is more appealing to buyers. It might be worth trying before reducing your price again right?! At least that is what other agents have thought as well and they have reached out to Heather for help too!
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Heather also recognizes the importance of education and expertise in her field. She is constantly learning about healthy home practices and seeking out new resources to share with her clients. By being wellversed in everything from air filtration to non-toxic cleaning products, Heather is able to provide her clients with a more comprehensive and holistic approach to home buying and selling. But Heather's commitment to wellness doesn't end there. She is also passionate about supporting local businesses that promote healthy living. From farmers' markets to wellness retreats, Heather is always on the lookout for new ways to connect her clients with the community. By building relationships with local vendors, Heather is able to provide her clients with a more personalized and authentic experience. In a time when home health is more important than ever, Heather's approach to real estate is a breath of fresh air. By focusing on the health and well-being of her clients, she is able to provide a holistic approach to home buying and selling. Having a wellness-focused real estate agent on your side to provide unique insights and knowledge will not only help you navigate a real estate transaction, but their expanded knowledge and network can also help you find a healthy home that's right for you and your family. To find a wellness-focused agent near you, our directory is a great starting point. Even if your area isn't listed, agents in the directory can offer valuable referrals. Ultimately, it's comforting to know that there are now many more options and solutions available to help folks find and create a healthier home environment. To learn more about Heather, head to her website: https://heatherschmidt.info/
https://heatherschmidt.info/
Wellness-Focused Agents are Elevating Real Estate Services for Health-Conscious Homebuyers By, Sheila Alston Founder HealthyHOME™ Media
HEMP WOOD A New Healthy Eco-Friendly Wood Flooring Choice Made From Hemp Fibers
By, Michelle Ifversen Designwell Studios
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What could be better for people, place and planet? How about healthy, sustainable wood flooring?
Why is this important?
Hempwood is a company that manufactures hemp to create non toxic, pre engineered wood floors and lumber products. They are beautiful, non toxic, durable and sustainable! Your floor covers a lot of surface area, so it’s important to get the best materials. Also, super important to use non toxic adhesives if you need them, like AFM Safecoat’s Almighty Adhesive. If you don’t the traditional adhesives can off gas for many years contributing to chronic asthma, especially in children.
Most of the homes that we inspect and the tests we do for formaldehyde and VOCs (ie Chemicals that off gas in the air) come back super high when there is new flooring made from vinyl. Vinyl chloride was the deadly toxic chemical that was in the train that derailed and spilled in East Palestine Ohio February 3, 2023. Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas used in making plastic products, like vinyl plank flooring. page 33
Vinyl plank flooring or LVP is made up mostly of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The US government now has regulations against the use of harmful materials in everyday items, such as BPA in plastic bottles or lead in paint. Unfortunately, no restrictions exist regarding the use of polyvinyl chloride and other toxic chemical compounds in some flooring materials. Numerous tests have shown that Polyvinyl Chloride Flooring is harmful and that luxury vinyl is toxic, but what exactly does that mean, and how can it make your flooring dangerous? Polyvinyl chloride is a known carcinogen and contains health and environmental toxins such as dioxin and phthalates. While dioxin is generally only released when exposed to heat, such as during the manufacturing process, it poses a lesser threat to you and your family’s health. The phthalates in the flooring, however, can become a significant problem for you and your family. While many phthalates have regulations prohibiting them from being used in children’s toys and other examples, no current regulations are banning or limiting their use in vinyl flooring products.
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Credit...Lucy Schaly/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, via Associated Press
A worker specializing in hazardous waste abatement works near last months disaster in Ohio. The East Palestine spill affected about seven and a half miles of stream, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and killed an estimated 3,500 fish as of Feb. 8, mostly small suckers, minnows, darters and sculpin. Residents have reported dead or sickened chickens and other animals.
Instagram: hempwood_
HempWood® is committed to providing healthy building materials that are good for the environment. With climate concerns at an all-time high, we are continuing to stick by our word and pioneer the way to healthy building materials. HempWood can be used for anything that wood typically is, like construction materials.
HempWood® transforms hemp fibers and protein based bonding agents through patented processes utilizing biomimicry. This creates a viable wood substitute for anything solid oak can be used for. *Biomimicry is a practice that learns from and mimics the strategies found in nature to solve human design challenges—and find hope. Picture Credit: Hempwood
HempWood® uses PureBond FSC® Plywood in their flooring and operates their facilities at a carbon-negative rate. From the Environmental Product Declaration to the responsibly sourced materials. To learn more about the steps HempWood® is taking to support our planet, please refer to the next page.
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Hemp Is Good For The Planet Hemp is a powerful plant. Estimates show that for every ton of hemp grown 1.62 tons of carbon dioxide is removed! All hemp is sourced within 100 miles of Murray, KY. All hemp growth and material production is conducted in the United States of America. They help to eliminate deforestation by growing hemp through sustainable methods.
Biofuel Transitioning to zero waste starts with repurposing unsuitable material. The bio burier utilizes waste hemp to fuel the facility with heat energy.
Hydro Power Hempwood headquarters is supplied with hydropower, lessening its dependence on fossil fuels.
No VOCs Hempwood doesn’t use any formaldehyde in their adhesives at all! They use Cargill Prolia Soy Flour which has no VOCs. They use FSC-Certified Purebond Polar Plywood for flooring & panels.
Custom Color Collection, which includes the choice of Espresso, Bourbon, Ice, Granite, Carbon, and Cherry.
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It is also available unfinished, so you can create any finish you like using safe and healthy finishing products. It can be installed using nails, so no adhesives to off gas into your environment.
Their Kentucky Plant For almost a century the United States made industrial hemp illegal until an amendment to the 2014 version of the Farm Bill changed all of that by allowing the growth of industrial hemp by state-run research programs. Since then, an increasing number of states began allowing larger scale industrial hemp facilities to begin operations. After an exhaustive search for the right location for a brand new 16,500 Sq. ft. pilot plant, they settled on Murray, Kentucky. The state and local officials have been very supportive of the endeavor. They are looking forward to the economic benefits that the new facility will bring to the area.
How They Make It The process of creating HempWood® Natural Flooring starts in the field. All hemp is sourced within 100 miles of the factory from local farmers. After the hemp is collected, a plant-based adhesive is used to bind full-length fiber hemp stalks. After the hemp stalks and plant-based adhesive are combined, the material is compressed and baked to form HempWood® Blocks.
Transform your home or business with HempWood Natural Flooring! This American-made floor covering goes from seed to floor within 150 days – that’s faster than bamboo! And, with a Janka hardness rating of 2,200 lbf, this engineered hardwood is ready to withstand what life has to offer. Yes, including pet nails. Not to mention, HempWood Natural Flooring is a USDA Certified BioBased product and is carbonnegative from cradle to gate.
From the Blocks, 4mm HempWood® veneers are cut for the top layer of the engineered flooring. For the substrate, a 5-layer PureBound® Hardwood Plywood is used. The plywood is ethically sourced from Columbia Forest Products, which is located in West Virginia. By using PureBound® Plywood, we are able to maintain our eco-friendly mission and support the American economy. After cutting the veneers and ripping the plywood, our flooring is assembled with the help of our PUR glue line. After adhering the HempWood® veneer to the Purebond® Plywood, a tongue and groove profile is cut into the flooring. The boards are then sanded, finished, and surveyed for any blemishes. Our quality control team hand-checks each board and ensures that our flooring upholds our standards of hardness, durability, and beauty. HempWood® Natural Flooring is offered in three options: Site-finished, Natural, and our Custom Color Collection. HempWood® Natural Flooring offers durability and strength all while maintaining an eco-friendly mission and ultra-low VOCs.
Contact DesignWell Studios for samples of HempWood, healthy finishes and colors, pricing, and ordering! tom@designwellstudios.com
By, Michelle Ifversen Environmental Wellness Director, DesignWell Studios
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Wellness includes so much more than diet and exercise. Now more than ever health conscious families realize that the home environment plays an integral part to our overall wellbeing. This podcast is dedicated to uncovering all the elements that lead to a healthy home.
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wellnessRE GLOSSARY OF TERMS
According to the Global Wellness Institute, Wellness Real Estate is defined as homes that are proactively designed and built to support the holistic health of their residents. A Wellness community is a group of people living in close proximity who share common goals, interests and experiences in proactively pursuing wellness across its many dimensions. Green Home, Healthy Home and Wellness Home are terms that some like to use interchangeably. Here at WellnessRE Magazine™, we have identified some key differences.
GREEN HOME
HEALTHY HOME
Focus is on Sustainability Energy Efficiency Some focus on removing toxins in the air & water Certifications available for
Focus is on Family Well-Being Removing toxins Creating a supportive environment for a healthy lifestyle
homes with exceptional
Routine/regular home
integration
maintenance
WELLNESS HOME Focus is on Adding products to take the Green Home or Healthy Home to a whole new level. Adding amenities that create a spa like experience Better for new homes or extensive remodel projects Healthy Living is a journey and just like there is no one size fits all dieting approach, the journey to a greener, healthier or more sustainable home is not the same for everyone. It's important to note that sometimes a green or sustainable choice is not always the healthier choice for your family. So, it's vital to become aware of any sensitivities family members have to the environment to make more informed decisions that work best for you and your family.
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AGENTS FOR CHANGE
AT YOUR SERVICE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS THAT HAVE YOUR WELLNESS IN MIND No two agents are alike, and while every agent may strive to offer you excellent customer service, knowledge, and support during your real estate journey, wellnessRE PROs™ take extra steps to further their education, experience, and knowledge in wellness and green real estate. They choose to network with home wellness and green home experts in order to save you time and money and offer more value to you. We are on this mission to bring health and home together. When representing buyers or sellers, we help them know what to look for in a healthy home, highlight wellness features in our listings, and teach our clients how they can create a more comfortable and healthier living environment for their families.
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WELLNESS AGENT D I R E C T O R Y
Arizona | Scottsdale Sandra Barckholtz Associate Broker, GREEN, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist BR548336000 ENGEL & VÖLKERS l7025 E. Via Soleri Dr. Suite 125 Scottsdale AZ 85251
I earned my Green Designation to further assist clients with their desire for homes in a healthy toxin-free environment. I am also a member of The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist. As an avid equestrian, I specialize in horse properties and matching clients to properties that match their lifestyles.
Sandra.Barckholtz@evrealestate.com 480-221-2593 sandrabarckholtz.evrealestate.com sandrabarckholtzrealtor_ev
California | Pasedena El Larson Feng Shui, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, REALTOR©, GREEN DRE #02185797 Coldwell Banker Hallmark Realty 1625 W Glenoaks Blvd, Glendale, CA 91201
We work with spaces of all type to help clients find or create a home that supports their wellbeing. Blending evidence-based design strategies with ancient practices, our services include real estate sales, healthy building consulting, feng shui and biophilic design.
el@heare.la 310.592.1191 www.heare.agency @heareagency @heare_agency el-larson
Colorado | Parker and Surrounding Areas Tammi Hoerner Associate Broker 100086146
Guiding buyers and sellers with integrity and honesty in residential, land, and luxury.
thoerner@kw.com 303.304.7460 www.sweethomescolorado.net
Realtor®, SRS, PSA, NHCB
@myneighborhoodrealestatelady @tammihoerner
Connecticut | Hartford County Christine Green NAR GREEN Designee REB.0791315 William Raveis Real Estate 125 LaSalle Road West Hartford, CT 06107
I am a licensed Connecticut Realtor with a Green Designation serving the Greater Hartford, Connecticut region. I collaborate with my clients throughout the home buying journey so that they understand the process and feel confident in their decisions along the way. I am passionate about healthy living promoting a toxic free- and cleanliving environment and I also volunteer my time to support the local community.
christine@cgreenhome.com 860.256.1280 Christinegreen.raveis.com @Christinegreenrealestate
Florida | Broward County & Palm Beach Shelley Gruen SRES & NAR GREEN Designee Licence #SL3480922 eXp Realty® South Florida
I am a people-focused strategic thinker who helps buyers, sellers and investors clarify their home goals and guide them through successful and healthy transactions.
shelley@shelleysellsflorida.com 561.504.8515 www.shelleysellsflorida.com @shelleysellsflorida
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WELLNESS AGENT D I R E C T O R Y
Florida | Miami Cindy Rodriguez The Healthy Home Concierge (THHC) Luxury Marketing Certified, New Home Buyer Certified, Green Accredited Professional with Sustainable Furnishings Council, Certified Health Coach. License #3497103
I am a licensed Florida realtor and Founder of THHC where I partner with residential design professionals - Interior Designers, Architects, Builders and other Realtors. By bringing the wellness and sustainability components, we add an innovative approach, increased profits and enhanced value to their design projects.
Info@TheHealthyHomeConcierge.com 305.519.0450 www.thehealthyhomeconcierge.com @TheHealthyHomeConcierge
The Keyes Company
Florida | Tampa Bay - Saint Petersburg Cheri Riley NAR GREEN Designation, Permaculture Design Cert, Wellness Within Your Walls Cert, Global Wellness Institute Ambassador 22-23, Regenerative Real Estate Network Member License # BK3348785 Premier Sotheby's International Realty
I work relentlessly on my client's behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals and make smart choices in the built environment. I am passionate about bringing the beauty of sustainable and environmentally friendly living to the luxury real estate market. My community involvement and experience overseeing two billion dollars in sales during my real estate career will serve you well.
cheririley@cheririley.com 727-228-0779 cheririley.premiersothebysrealty.com/ @cheri.riley
Florida | Vero Beach Cassy West One Sotheby's International Realty LEED v4 Green Associate, Fitwel Ambassador, Wellness Within Your Walls Certified, GREEN Designee with National Assoc. of Realtors, Certified in Healthy Building Materials Licensed in FL & MA #SL3523120 One Sotheby's International Realty
“Design Well to Live Well” Living in a healthy home is essential to human health and wellbeing
cwest@onesthebysrealty.com 508.395.6391 www.wellnessbydezign.com/ @wellnessbydezign @wellnessbydezign
Georgia | Atlanta Terry Brown First Time Home Buyer & Senior Home Specialist, NAR GREEN Designee, Certified Health Coach License #285210 Coldwell Banker Realty 5591 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd Atlanta, GA 30338
As a realtor and certified holistic health coach, it is inspiring to see the interest in living a healthier lifestyle, not only through our food choices but also the products we bring into our homes. Toxic chemicals can affect the air quality in our homes and create health issues down the road. More builders are embracing ways to build homes that promote health and wellness by eliminating toxic materials and VOC's (volatile organic compounds). Small changes can lead to big differences.
terrym.brown@coldwellbankeratlanta.com
I'm a certified building Biology Advocate, A Holistic Realtor, The Founder of Non-Toxic Georgia. She works with Nontoxic Companies, Radon & Mold Testing, Clean water & Air. 5 G concerns and how to create a non-toxic Ecosystem Living Environment
HolisticHomeExpert@gmail.com
770.403.1146 www.terrymbrown.cbintouch.com Terry Sells Johns Creek and Beyond @terrybrown9454
Georgia | Metro Atlanta Tori McGee Certified Building Biology Advocate, Certified Vegan health Coach, ABR & SRS Designations LIcence #364388 Chapman Hall Realtors
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770.608.6777 www.atlantaholisticrealtor.com @holistichomeexpert
WELLNESS AGENT D I R E C T O R Y
Hawaii | Oahu Christina Laney Mitre Smart Living Hawaii CRS, NAR GREEN Designee, SRES RS-67243 Corcoran Pacific Properties, 4211 Waialae Ave. #106, Honolulu, HI 96816
Your Hawai’i Real Estate Connection! We focus on residential real estate but have a passion for Green Real Estate: Green & Sustainable Building/Sales, Luxury High Performance Homes, Smart Homes, Healthy Homes, Agricultural/Sustainable Land Acquisitions and Affordable Housing
Christina@laneyre.com 808.282.1399 www.smartlivinghi.com @smartlivinghawaii @SmartLivingHawaii
Illinois | Plainfield Heather Schmidt Holistic Real Estate Group License #475.133340 Keller Williams Infinity 11850 S Rte 59, Plainfield, IL 60585
My passion is to help everyone have a space that is in their highest & best good. I guide my clients through a positive real estate experience, empowering them to make decisions with their mind while leading with their heart. When you work with me, you can be confident that your Realtor is truly your advocate, and you will Love Your Home Heart & Soul’d.
heather.schmidt@kw.com 630.608.7400 heatherschmidt.info/ @LoveYourHomeHS
Michigan | Birmingham | Oakland County Gail Corcoran NAR GREEN designee CNE (Certified Negotiation Expert), EPro License #6501335683 Century21 Curran & Oberski 32121 Woodward Ave, Suite 100 Royal Oak, MI 48073
I will passionately tell you that, in only a few short years, it's all going to come down to living "green"! Real estate provides an excellent place for beginning to review our everyday choices of existence, and I absolutely love helping my clients navigate toward healthier living in their home environment.
CorcoranRealEstate@Outlook.com 248.703.6413 www.gailcorcoran.realtor @greenerwithgail
Texas | Austin Jenny Phillips ABR, AHWD, NAR Green Designee License #653169 Realty One Group Prosper Austin, TX
Buying a home is a big decision and there can be many obstacles in the process. I understand the importance of making every transaction as efficient and stress free as possible. A successful and seamless experience for my clients is the ultimate reward.
Jenny@JMPhillipsProperties.com 512.517.4890 www.livingctx.com @jennyphillipsrealtor @jenny_atxrealestate
Washington | Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle Kristy Woodford Holistic Home Group ILHM Certified Luxury Specialist License #96745
SpecializIng in a holistic approach to real estate with greater health, less stress and more success in the process.
kwoodford@kw.com 360.508.2800 www.holistichomegroup.com @holistichomegroup
Keller Williams South Sound 676 Woodland Square Lp SE #122 Olympia WA 98503
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WELLNESS AGENT D I R E C T O R Y
Washington | Seattle, Greater Eastside Katerina Sayles NW Green Living
LEED Green Associate & NAR GREEN License #20113517 Keller Williams Seattle 5446 California Avenue SW
Dedicated to meeting each clients needs in buying or selling real estate, one that specializes in a new generation of green & healthy properties, which integrates wellness design and strategies to support a healthier home and work environment for years to come.
katerinasayles@kw.com 425.466.5578 www.katerinasaylesrealtor.com @katerinasrealtor @katerinasayles_realtor
Washington State | Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Chelan, Quincy Karla Mullins Holistic REALTOR® Holistic Healthcare degree with emphasis on Whole Foods and Herbalism, Feng Shui Certified Consultant, Life Coaching Certificate License #112013
Your holistic realtor, feng shui consultant, and wellness friend. Weather its buying, selling or improving your existing home, my mission is to help lay the foundation of my client’s homes so they're able to be more resilient and handle the stresses of life.
karla@karlamullins.com 509.699.3597 www.karlamullins.com @holistic_re_agent
Kelly Right 140 S Arthur St #600, Spokane, WA 99202
Home Wellness Experts
Architecture Kate Hamblet Wellness Architect Balanced Architecture AIA, LEED AP
I am a licensed architect that helps natureloving, health-conscious families create homes that enhance their health, happiness, and longevity through local custom projects and my guided DIY design online course.
kate@balancedarchitecture.com 603.491.7394 balancedarchitecture.com/ @balanced_architecture
Licensed in NH, MA, CO
Building Biology | Home Inspections Amanda Klecker Healthy House on the Block Building Biology Practitioner, Certified Professional Home Inspector Licence #NACHI16012624 Minneapolis, MN
I help real estate agents learn how to identify red flags in houses and ultimately assist their clients in finding the best house for their needs.
info@healthyhouseontheblock.com
I also have an extensive website full of healthy home insights and tips for homeowners!
@healthyhouseontheblock
651.395.7330 www.healthyhouseontheblock.com/
Environmental Wellness | Biophilic Design Michelle Ifversen Design Well Studios BA Art, Building Biology Practitioner, Biophilic & Environmental Wellness Designer Licence #822916577 Portland, OR
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I help people solve their environmental health issues and consult on healthy building materials and practices to increase their wellbeing. By infusing biophilic design elements into built environments, a more inspiring and supportive place for people, pets and planet is created.
info@designwellstudios.com 503.386.2003 www.designwellstudios.com @michelleifversen
WELLNESS AGENT D I R E C T O R Y
Home Wellness Experts
Healthy Home Interior Designer Carolyn Tierney CMT Design Studio License #016481 Sustainable Building Advisor, Environmental Toxin Certificate, Professional Interior Designer
I am a Holistic Interior Designer and Home Construction Consultant. I create stylish non-toxic homes for families that value health and wellness.
ctierney@carolyntierney.com 929.390.1742 www.carolyntierney.com @CMTdesigngroup
Home Organization Jolene Nannette Home by Jolene Home and Life Organizer
Jolene McGeehan is a specialist in home efficiency, tackling to-do lists and calming the chaos through home organization.
homebyjolene@gmail.com 619-203-1611 www.homebyjolene.com @homebyjolene
San Diego, California
Water Filtration Robin Colvey Lifetime Water Ionized water filtration, Sonic Vibration Sound Therapy and Certified Functional Nutrition Coaching Solana Beach, CA and online
Hydrogen-rich water is the key to unlocking true, optimal health. I educate and help my clients solve their chronic health issues with natural resources that have lasting benefits and no side effects!
rocolvey@gmail.com 619.540.7620 www.lifetimewatersb.com @lifetime.water
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GLOBAL WELLNESS BEGINS AT HOME
Together, we are making the world a healthier place, one home at a time.