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Join the Movement January 2026

CHICAGO EDITION Publisher Peggy Malecki Sales & Marketing Heidi Hetzel Peggy Malecki Operations Jhona Cordero Editors/Proofing Theresa Archer Sara Gurgen Randy Kambic Writers Sheryl DeVore Marlaina Donato Carrie Jackson Megy Karydes Design & Production Courtney Ayers Suzzanne Siegel

Natural Awakenings Chicago P.O. Box 72, Highland Park, IL 60035 Ph: 847-858-3697 Peggy@NAChicago.com • NAChicago.com Follow us on Facebook and Linkedin

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Subscriptions are available by sending $35 (for 12 issues) to the above address.

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle COO Michael Bevilacqua CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com Cover image by by Louis-Paul Photo for Adobe Stock © 2026 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

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Publisher’s Letter

Happy New Year! As I write this month’s letter, it’s late afternoon and I’m looking out my window at the oaks, maples and evergreens lining the block, their branches etched in sharp relief against a winter sky that shifts from pale gold to soft pinks and deep purples as the sun sets. It’s cold, yes, but there’s still a warmth in that light, in the color, in the quiet beauty. Gardens are resting, trees are holding their energy low, and beneath the surface, spring life is quietly preparing. January offers a different kind of beginning, one rooted in observation, intention and care, especially if we take a moment to notice what’s here around us.

Peggy Malecki

Our January issue of Natural Awakenings Chicago is likewise rooted in whole-person health and wellness, with stories that reflect how we are shaped not just by what we do, but by how we live day to day. In “The Power of Integrative Medicine: A Guide to Whole-Person Care,” Hannah Tytus explores a growing shift toward care that looks beyond symptoms to the fuller aspects of our well-being. That perspective continues in “Strong for Life: The Power of Functional Fitness,” which reminds us that strength and mobility are built through everyday movements, especially important in winter when it is easy to slow down. And in “Soulful Sourdough: Why This Bread Still Heals,” Maya Whitman returns us to the quiet wisdom of traditional practices rooted in patience, fermentation and care. That same sense of care shows up close to home through food, nature and community. In “Winter Farmers Markets Keep Local Food on the Table Year-Round,” Janie Maxwell, executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association, highlights how winter markets continue to connect shoppers with fresh, locally produced foods, while “Create a Flavorful Frittata With Winter Market Selections” offers an easy, comforting way to bring those ingredients to our table. Seed swaps return throughout the winter as well, giving gardeners a chance to gather, share and begin shaping spring. And for anyone looking for a reason to step outside, “As Northern Landscapes Freeze, Chicago Welcomes Seasonal Songbirds,” by Sheryl DeVore, invites us to notice the beauty of our winter bird visitors. As always, I encourage you to step outside each day and stay connected to the natural world. Experience the slow return of the light as the days lengthen. Bundle up and take a walk to a forest preserve trail, lakefront path or neighborhood sidewalk. Look for winter birds moving through bare branches, animal tracks crossing the snow or the textures of ice along a creek or river’s edge. Notice how the landscape settles into a quieter rhythm after a fresh snowfall. January offers its own kind of beauty if we pause long enough to notice it. As always, thank you for welcoming Natural Awakenings into your home and wellness routine. On behalf of our entire team, I wish you a bright, healthy and inspired 2026. Photo by Peggy Malecki

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Contents Departments 6 News Briefs 12 Health Briefs 14 Eco Brief 16 Eco Tip 16 Business Spotlight 18 Educational Corner 20 Green Living 22 Natural Chicago

24 Feature Story 28 Conscious Eating 31 Farmers Markets 32 Farmers Market Kitchen 34 Local Food DIspatch 36 Fit Body

38 Wellness Travel 40 Inspiration

14 Bison Return to Kane County Prairie

41 Energy & Healing Arts Network 16 Simple Habits for the Greenest Year Yet 42 Wise Words

20 Sharing Seeds, Growing Community

46 Calendar

22 Seasonal Songbirds

51 Classifieds

24 The Power of Integrative Medicine

51 Resource Guide 55 Yoga, Pilates, Dance, Fitness & Movement Network

28 Soulful Sourdough 31 Winter Farmers Markets 34 Ten Natural Food Products Trends 36 Strong for Life 38 The Rise of Transformational Travel 40 Baby Steps to a Life Well Lived 42 Dean Mitchell 44 How to Help Us Teens

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January 2026

News Briefs

Ash & Willow Eco Salons will host two January wellness gatherings at The Nest, its dedicated healing space in Park Ridge: a Women’s Empowerment Circle with Emma from 2 to 3:30 p.m.on January 4 and Twilight Community Reiki with Andrea at 7 p.m. on January 21. With locations in Park Ridge and Barrington, Ash & Willow blends beauty, sustainability and community-focused programming throughout the year. The Nest also invites participants to explore deeper transformational work through the upcoming Sol y Luna Immersion Retreat in Costa Rica, scheduled for April 12 through 19. Beyond special events, the Park Ridge location provides weekly Yoga Nidra with Sound Healing on Sundays, tarot readings on Thursdays, Community Yoga on Mondays and reiki sessions with Rose on Fridays. Ash & Willow’s Park Ridge salon offers plant-based hair, nail and skin care services, while its Barrington location is a setting for personalized, holistic hair care. Together, the salons and The Nest emphasize sustainable practices and a wellness-centered environment that nurture both body and spirit. Locations: 610 Devon Ave., Park Ridge, and 104 S. Cook St., Barrington. For more information, call 847-696-7560 (Park Ridge) or 847-387-4335 (Barrington) or visit AshWillowSalon.com. See ad on page 13 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Ravinia Winter Farmers Market Returns at Two Indoor Locations The Ravinia Winter Farmers Market returns to Highland Park this season with two welcoming indoor locations, both offering a warm place to shop local throughout the colder months. Running from mid-January through late April, the market features fresh microgreens, handcrafted foods, baked treats, seasonal plants and artisan-made goods from local growers and makers. “We expanded to two indoor markets this season to keep the winter season experience strong and consistent while continuing to support our vendors and shoppers,” says market manager Ed Kugler. “Each location offers a cozy, community-focused atmosphere where people can connect with local food producers all winter long.” Markets happen weekly on Fridays and Saturdays. The Braeside Market takes place Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., January 16 through April 24. The Ravinia Indoor Market is held Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., January 10 through April 25, at Wayfarer Theaters in downtown Highland Park. Both locations are Metra-accessible and offer convenient parking. Locations: Braeside Market: 55 St. Johns Ave., Highland Park; and Ravinia Indoor Market at Wayfarer Theaters, 1850 Second St., Highland Park (free indoor parking). For more information, visit RaviniaFarmersMarket.com. For vendor inquiries, call Ed Kugler at 847-579-9080. 6

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Learn and Practice Ancient Egyptian Energy Forms The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, in Des Plaines, will offer Egyptian Energy Forms classes led by instructor Lino Brescia from 7 to 8 p.m. on Fridays from January 23 through February 27. Participants will learn and practice 12 basic forms along with the breathing technique used in this tradition. Photo courtesy Edgar Cayce Holistic Center

Step Into Restorative Wellness at Ash & Willow

Qigong is commonly regarded as a Chinese practice focused on consciously cultivating life force energy through breathwork, meditation and Lino Brescia structured movement. According to practitioners, similar approaches were also used in ancient Egypt, where life force energy was called “Ka”, and certain poses in Egyptian art are believed to depict qigong-related energy postures. Supporters of Egyptian energy forms say each movement creates a specific energetic structure intended to help alleviate stagnant energy and support physiological and spiritual well-being. Reported benefits include improved intuitive abilities, cleansing of chakras and meridians, and cultivating a field of energetic protection. Brescia, who has practiced and taught the forms for the past decade, says he has developed the ability to focus, magnify and project this energy art form. Cost: Each class is $25. Location: 259 E. Central Rd., Des Plaines. For more information or to register, call 847-299-6535 or visit HolisticCenterChicago.com. See ad on page 12, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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gut health has a direct effect on how you feel.” “saysYour Reneé Barasch of Digestive Health Solutions. “Understand the struggles of your own microbiome, and create a plan to restore balance and feel better.” Reneé’s practice is now offering BiomeFx Microbiome Testing ; a powerful tool to help reveal what’s going on in your gut. This DNA test identifies helpful and harmful microbes, and provides insights to improve digestion, energy, and support overall well-being.

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January 2026

News Briefs

The Great Seed (and Soil!) Event will return to McHenry County College (MCC) on February 7 for its third year with an expanded lineup of experts and informative activities. Hosted by the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners and the Center for Agrarian Learning at MCC, this free program will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the college cafeteria. Organizers note that the gathering has grown far beyond a traditional seed swap. Community partners, vendors, raffles, kids’ activities and garden-related demonstrations will be available throughout the event. Doors open at 10 a.m., and early entry is not permitted. Attendees are asked to take only the seeds they expect to use so supplies remain ample. Bringing seeds is welcomed, but not required. Scheduled speakers include Stephanie Tesmer on Backyard Food Forest and Will Akin of Will’s Native Perennials on Why and How to Build a 10x10 Pocket Prairie. In addition, Midwest Organics and the IL Food Scrap and Composting Coalition will present together on home and commercial composting tips and advice. Location: 8900 NW Hwy. 14, Crystal Lake. Registration is requested, but not required. For more information or to register, visit Eventbrite.com/e/the-great-seed-event-of-2026-tickets-1500395215479. See ad on page 15.

Enter 2026 Feeling Lighter and Brighter Chicago’s Midwest Cleanse invites the community to start the new year with a unique wellness and self-care activity. The center, known for its colon hydrotherapy services, offers a 90-minute total experience with up to 60 minutes of an actual cleanse, plus time before and after to relax and reset. “Midwest Cleanse is Chicagoland’s trusted colon hydrotherapy center,” says founder and owner Maggie de Leon. “We believe relaxation is essential to a great experience, which is why we offer the region’s only 90-minute appointment. You’ll have up to 60 minutes of table time, with time before and after, so you never feel rushed. You can also enhance your visit with an ionic foot bath or infrared sauna wrap for a full-body reset in one trip.” The center will host Rooted in Wellness from 3 to 5 p.m. on January 18, featuring local doctors and wellness professionals that will showcase offerings from colon hydrotherapy to menopause support, lymphatic drainage massage and more. Attendees can explore modalities, ask questions and discover how each modality supports overall well-being. Midwest Cleanse provides Spanish-speaking services, follows strict sanitation protocols and is highly rated online. Location: 5962 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. For more information, visit MidwestCleanse.com. To book an appointment or to RSVP for Rooted in Wellness (required), call 773-728-6800. See ad on page 35, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Feel Strong All Season With Winter Acupuncture Care from Nirvana Nirvana Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, in Deerfield, is offering winterfocused acupuncture and integrative therapies to help community members stay resilient, rested and well during the coldest months. The practice believes winter can be a time of restoration and renewed vitality rather than a season to simply endure, and its offerings are designed to support immunity, ease tension and improve overall energy. They emphasize the comfort of stepping into a warm, calming treatment room after dealing with a long, cold day, where acupuncture activates the body’s natural Lana Moskovich, LAc, ND, MSOM healing pathways. Patients often describe the experience as a reset that melts tension, improves circulation and settles the nervous system.

Photo courtesy Nirvana Naturopathics

Explore the Expanded Great Seed Event at McHenry County College

Acupuncture practitioners say winter is an ideal time to support the body through targeted treatments, which may help with seasonal aches, low energy, shifting mood and disrupted sleep patterns. Integrative services such as Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques, herbal medicine, microcurrent therapy and photobiomodulation are all available to help patients pursue and achieve their wellness goals throughout the season. Location: 707 Lake Cook Rd., Ste. 125, Deerfield. For more information or to make an appointment, call 847-243-6447 or visit NirvanaNaturopathics.com. Mention this news brief for a complimentary consultation. See ad on page 27, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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“I have pain. Can you help me?” Yes, we can! At Health Clarified, we understand how frustrating chronic pain can be. Many of our

patients have tried everything before finding us. That’s why our approach is different. With over 30 years of experience, we take the time to listen, assess, and get to the root of what’s really going on. Dr. Kim has overcome chronic pain herself, so she truly understands what our patients are facing. Each visit is personalized, often incorporating a combination of hands-on Chiropractic care, targeted bodywork, and holistic tools to support long-term healing—not just temporary relief.

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January 2026

News Briefs

Photo courtesy Camino Wellness Center

Camino Wellness Center, in Wheeling, offers a peaceful, spacious oasis dedicated to traditional healing arts and self-inquiry modalities. Described by its founders as a sincere labor of love and a reflection of their spiritual paths, the center’s offerings aim to restore the mind-body-energy connection and support emotional and physical well-being.

The team at Camino Wellness includes energy-sensitive practitioners committed to the art of healing and deep listening. Nataliya Nusinova, LAc, specializes in traditional, esoteric and five element acupuncture, using essential oils and energy work to support emotional and physical well-being. Vova Kuperman leads meditation and self-inquiry sessions, helping individuals reduce stress, cultivate emotional intelligence and reconnect with their inner depth.

Heal Triggers and Rewire Emotional Patterns for an Improved Mindset Rebecca Robbins, Ph.D., a behavioral specialist and trained neuroplastician, combines neuroscience coaching for real change with behavioral expertise at Belief Redesign. She helps clients uncover how they learned patterns that drive anxiety, feelings of overwhelm and repeated negative emotional cycles.

Beyond individual treatments, the center serves as a hub for introspection, offering weekly silent meditations, guided self-inquiry sessions and immersive meditation workshops. It also hosts major events, including an upcoming 10-day meditation retreat in February. Location: 401 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. For more information, call 224-300-0499 or visit CaminoWellnessCenter.com. See ad on page 19, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Image courtesy of Life Balance Clinic

Conquering Fear Provides Practical, Science-Backed Path Forward Dr. Vadim Dekhtyar of Glenview’s Life Balance Clinic has released Conquering Fear, a practical, science-backed guide that helps readers conquer fear, anxiety and even physical pain by addressing their deep neurological roots. The psychotherapist and internationally known hypnotherapist and neurolinguistic programming specialist provides clear, structured tools for rapid emotional change while explaining where apprehensive thoughts originate, how they form in the brain and how they can be rewired.

The publication offers detailed guidance for overcoming all types of fears and inner blocks, along with vivid illustrations, relatable stories and step-by-step methods that make transformation accessible to a wide audience. Written in an engaging, user-friendly style, Conquering Fear serves anyone seeking emotional balance, relief from anxiety or a way to reclaim confidence regardless of external circumstances. To order Conquering Fear, call Dekhtyar’s office at 847-724-1777 or visit Amazon.com. See ad on page 45 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com. 10

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Rebecca Robbins, Ph.D.

Photo courtesy Belief Redesign

Camino Wellness Center: A Sanctuary for Self-Care

“If you’ve tried therapy, journaling or mindset work, but still feel stuck, the problem isn’t you—it’s your brain’s wiring,” says Robbins. She uses science-backed techniques such as tapping, reframing and memory reconsolidation to gently update the “old codes” that keep people stuck. “This work doesn’t require willpower. It does require commitment, but most importantly, it requires safety and the right method for change,” she explains. Robbins invites those ready to address the root causes of their emotional patterns to schedule a free discovery call and begin the process that can lead to lasting change. For more information or to schedule a free discovery call, email Info@BeliefRedesign.com or visit BeliefRedesign.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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January 2026

Health Briefs

Begin a Wellness Journey From the Inside Out

time, these restrictions may influence vagus nerve function, spinal fluid flow and the balance of the musculoskeletal and organ systems. While the effects often take years to surface, they can accumulate gradually.

by Kim Henderson, DC

Photo courtesy of Health Clarified

A wellness journey begins long before adulthood—at the moment of conception, when genetic information from both parents joins forces to create a person. Generations of information carried in the DNA very quickly differentiate into three tubes, giving rise to all organs and structures, including the brain and spinal cord. This early stage is especially significant because subtle variations during neural tube formation can influence later health. These variations may contribute to concerns such as tongue ties, spinal cord anomalies and changes in how cerebrospinal fluid nourishes the brain and nervous system. While often unnoticed at birth, these influences can shape long-term function.

Kim Henderson, DC

Genes carry millennia of information, contributing to individuality as well as inherited traits such as eye color, health tendencies and predispositions. Family health history often offers clues about future wellness, but modern genetic testing now allows for a more precise, functional look at how genes express themselves. Certain tests can evaluate areas such as inflammation patterns, hormone pathways and more. This information can help identify how the body may be inclined to dysfunction, allowing for earlier, more informed wellness decisions. Understanding genetic tendencies offers an opportunity to take proactive steps rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Structural factors may also play a role. Tongue, lip or buccal (cheek) ties that develop early can create subtle tension patterns affecting the head, neck, jaw and even the spinal cord. Over

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Early evaluation by specifically trained dentists, chiropractors and bodyworkers can help identify and address these patterns. All babies should be evaluated for ties, which can be corrected with a laser when clinically indicated. In adults, treatment often involves myofunctional therapy, breathwork and body-based care to help release long-standing tension and restore function. With growing insight into genetics and early structural influences, individuals now have more tools than ever to support long-term health, awareness and well-being. Dr. Kim Henderson is the founder of Health Clarified, located at 2165A Shermer Rd., in Northbrook. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668 or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com. See ads on pages 9, 17, 27 and 45, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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New Year Empowerment: Creating A Vision For 2026

Fridays, January 23-February 27, 7:00-8:00 pm Egyptian Energy Forms: A Qi Gong Practice

Saturday, January 24, 2:00-3:30 pm

Awakening the Voice of the Soul: A Journey Into Intuition

Saturday, January 31, 2:00-5:00 pm “Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Chicago” “Spiritual Growth and Personal Development” 12

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Why Men Can’t Afford to Delay Preventive Care

aging”—they are signals that the body may require attention. The earlier these concerns are addressed, the easier they are to treat.

by Jerry Garcia, PA-C; Raymond Wohl, BA, MA; and Pedro Azcona, M.D.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic

Many men take pride in being tough, independent and resilient—but medical research shows that traditional male norms, such as self-reliance and stoicism, often contribute to delaying doctor visits. A 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open highlights this growing concern. Researchers found that men that strongly expressed traditional masculine traits were significantly less likely to receive timely cardiovascular risk assessments or follow recommended treatment plans. This pattern has real consequences: Jerry Garcia, Raymond Wohl and Pedro Azcona Men are more likely to have undiagnosed cardiovascular risk factors, even when clear signs—such as elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol or erectile dysfunction—are present.

Clinicians at UChicago Medicine emphasize that delays in care often lead to missed opportunities for early detection and prevention, especially for heart disease, the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Taking charge of our health doesn’t contradict strength—it defines it. Ignoring or postponing care doesn’t make symptoms disappear. Issues like fatigue, decreased stamina, erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, weight gain or rising blood pressure are not merely “signs of

Annual checkups, routine lab tests, open discussions about sexual health, and asking questions when something feels “off ” are powerful steps that protect men’s ability to thrive physically, mentally and sexually. At Chicago Male Clinic, we encourage men to view preventive care as an investment in their energy, vitality and long-term wellness. Early evaluation can identify silent risks, guide targeted treatment and restore confidence. Proactive care can safeguard health for years to come. Jerry Garcia is the medical director, Raymond Wohl is the patient care coordinator and Dr. Pedro Azcona is a medical provider at Chicago Male Clinic, located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, in Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 11, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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January 2026

Eco Brief

Bison Return to Kane County Prairie After More Than 200 Years

merican bison have returned to Kane County prairie for the first time in more than 200 years, stepping off a trailer onto Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve, in Sycamore, on December 5.

The move comes through a partnership between the Forest Preserve District of Kane County (FPD), the American Indian Center of Chicago (AIC) and herd manager Ruhter Bison. The project fulfills a promise made to voters as part of the 2024 Land Acquisition & Preserve Improvement Referendum. Bison once roamed Illinois’ prairies freely, but industrial development and farming nearly eradicated the landscape and its wildlife. Conservation agencies have long worked to restore the ecosystem, with reintroducing bison considered a rare milestone. “People have wanted to bring buffalo back since we first learned that our actions could cause the extinction of a species,” says FPD Executive Director Benjamin Haberthur. “The scale of what has been needed to make this happen has been prohibitive, until now.” FPD Natural Resource Management Director Patrick Chess says that bison are important to prairie not only because they were originally here, which is part of a wider restoration goal, but as they also provide ecological benefits. These large animals graze on plants and 14

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wallow, which creates small depressions that fill with water and provide habitat for other wildlife. “Anytime we can restore a property and bring back long-lost flora and fauna, it’s a victory,” he notes. AIC Co-Executive Director Jay Young describes the return as a “rematriation” and a way to reconnect urban Native communities to land, identity and cultural teachings. The organization will serve as community stewards of the bison, leading educational programming and a community science initiative to monitor prairie health alongside the FPD. While Forest Preserve District staff call it exciting to return bison to prairie after so many years, they ask residents to be patient a while longer before seeing them, to let the animals acclimate to their new surroundings. The bison were first unloaded into a small corral at Burlington Prairie on December 5 and then transferred to a larger 38-acre prairie on December 9. “Quietness and calmness are what is needed to give these animals time to adjust and feel safe and secure at Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve,” says Haberthur. “In addition, Burlington Prairie is one of the preserves that we partially close seasonally, due to the blowing and drifting snow in winter time. This will give the bison even more time to adjust. Come spring [once the preserve opens for the season], we’re planning public events to celebrate and welcome the buffalo back to Kane,” he adds. For more information, visit KaneForest.com.

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January 2026

Eco Tip

Simple Habits for the Greenest Year Yet

Adjust the thermostat by two degrees—down in winter and up in summer—to lower utility costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve local air quality. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates about 6 percent in energy savings for each degree of adjustment.

Replace plastic produce and grocery bags with reusables. Plastic bags are non-biodegradable and can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. Microplastics from these bags are ingested by small organisms, entering the food chain and affecting human diets.

fotoksa from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Switch to bar soap or refillable body wash. Millions of plastic soap containers end up in landfills each year, including

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552 million shampoo bottles, which take an average of 450 years to decompose.

Commit to one plant-based meal each week. Animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, so eating one less burger a week is equivalent to removing a vehicle off the road for 320 miles. A plant-based diet can also lower the risk of heart disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes and certain cancers, while boosting mental health.

Use what you have before buying more, especially toiletries and cleaning products. The bathroom accounts for 64 percent of a home’s single-use items.

Unplug devices like phone chargers, gaming consoles and kitchen appliances with digital displays when not in use, as they can still draw small amounts of power and account for up to 10 percent of electricity use.

Carry a reusable water bottle to combat plastic bottle pollution in ocean waters, which is projected to reach two garbage trucks-full per minute by 2030.

Choose standard shipping when shopping online, combine orders and select the fewest packages per delivery to minimize environmental impacts, such as higher emissions and fuel costs.

Take shorter showers and install more efficient showerheads to significantly reduce water and energy consumption. Using less hot water also decreases the energy needed for fossil fuel-based heating.

Compost to reduce food waste. Transform food scraps and yard trimmings into nutrient-rich soil for the garden, reducing the need for fertilizer and pesticides. Countertop composting decreases food scraps in landfills, cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Opt for gently used clothing instead of buying new. Thrifting or having clothing swaps with friends or family extends the life of clothes and reduces the volume sent to landfills annually.

Drive less by biking, walking, carpooling or using public transportation to cut air pollution and save money.

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iving sustainably is about prioritizing the planet and future generations by minimizing our environmental impact. Every small action we take can lead to significant change. From adjusting the thermostat to opting for better shopping bags, becoming an everyday eco-hero is surprisingly easy. Here are 12 impactful actions anyone can take.

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January 2026

Educational Corner

Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis

Photo © Carol Freeman

Winter feeding and habitat changes have helped extend the northern range of this more southerly bird. Now Midwesterners can see the beautiful red male brightening up yard and face on a bleak winter’s day. In February, the northern cardinal sings a cheerful, “Birdie, birdie, birdie, birdie” song to get ready for the nesting season. The female lacks the bright red plumage, but has a red bill, crest, wings and tail. The young looks like a female except it has a dark bill and crest. The open cup nest is built of twigs, bark, grasses, leaves and rootlets lined with hair and grasses in a dense shrub, vine tangle or conifer.

Facts:

Distribution: Southeastern U.S. north to Canadian border; also southwestern U.S.; has expanded its range northward for past century; lives in woodland edges, suburban gardens, wherever there’s dense bushes; more local in southwest, most absent west of the Great Plains. Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Aves Order: Passeriformes Family: Cardinalidae

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• In early spring, the male cardinal offers food to the female to bond with her. This behavior is often seen in spring at sunflower feeders. • Sometimes the young look bald-headed when molting their head feathers. • Both male and female cardinals sing, often repeating each other’s phrases to stay connected.

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January 2026

Green Living

Sharing Seeds, Growing Community

eed swaps have become a winter tradition across the Chicago area, offering a welcoming way for gardeners to gather, share seeds and look ahead to the growing season. These events bring people together during the quiet winter months, when gardens are resting but plans for spring are already taking shape. This year, National Seed Swap Day is celebrated on January 31. The annual observation began in 2006 after Kathy Jentz of Washington Gardener Magazine organized a midwinter seed exchange that helped spark a national movement. While gardeners have always exchanged seeds informally, the day created a shared moment for communities across the country to come together, trade seeds and reconnect with the promise of a new growing season. On its website, Seed Savers Exchange describes seed swaps as a simple and effective way to preserve heirloom varieties and keep regional favorites in circulation. Gardeners bring seeds they have saved from previous seasons or extra packets they won’t use and exchange them with others. In doing so, they help protect plant diversity, support resilient local gardens and ensure varieties that might otherwise be lost continue to thrive.

Across the greater Chicago region, National Seed Swap Day has grown into a full season of seed-sharing events. From Master Gardener groups and park districts to libraries, nature centers and local garden clubs, organizations host seed swaps and plant exchanges from late January through early March. Some are large, well-established gatherings, while others are smaller neighborhood events rooted in local communities. A typical seed swap features seeds for vegetables and herbs alongside native prairie plants, pollinator varieties and annual flowers, as well as a few unusual or hard-to-find seeds and some houseplants. Tables often include heirloom favorites saved from last season alongside extra packets purchased for the year ahead. These exchanges encourage seed saving, reduce waste and make it easier for gardeners at every level to try something new. Many events are family friendly, with opportunities for children to choose seeds, learn about plants and take part in hands-on activities. They bring together people of all ages and experience levels, strengthening community ties through a shared love of growing.

2026 Chicago Area Seed Swap Events and Gatherings January 11

Conservation@Home: Seed Swap 12 to 2 p.m. River Trail Nature Center 3120 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook Ages 13 and up Free; advance registration required fpdcc.com/event/ conservationhome-seed-swap-3

January 24

Super Seed Saturday Chicago Botanic Garden 13th Annual Seed Swap: 2 to 4 p.m. Burnstein Hall & Krehbiel Gallery, Regenstein Center 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe Garden open until 4 p.m. ChicagoBotanic.org

Photo by yanadjan for Adobe Stock

The events listed here reflect seed swaps and seed-focused gatherings confirmed as of press time for 2026 across Chicago and the surrounding counties. Additional events may be announced as winter schedules are finalized. Local garden clubs and organizations are encouraged to share details of other gatherings for inclusion in the calendar and the online version of this article. Listings can be emailed to Peggy@NAChicago.com.

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January 25

Conservation@Home: Winter Seed Sowing 1:30 p.m. River Trail Nature Center 3120 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook Ages 13 and up Free; advance registration required fpdcc.com/event/ conservationhome-winter-seed-sowing-2

January 31

Seed Swap / Intercambio de Semillas 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Aurora Public Library District – Eola Road Branch 555 S. Eola Rd., Aurora Free; walk-up event AuroraPublicLibrary.org Hosted in partnership with University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Master Gardeners National Seed Swap Day Schaumburg Park District 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Heritage Farm at Spring Valley 201 S. Plum Grove Rd., Schaumburg All ages; free ParkFun.com/event/national-seed-swap-day Seed Swap The Morton Arboretum • Section A: 12 to 1:30 p.m. • Section B: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Arbor Room, Thornhill Education Center 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, Lisle Ages 16 and up; advance registration required MortonArb.org/explore/activities/ adult-programs/seed-swap

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Seed Swap Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield St., Oak Park • 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. FOPCON members only • 12 to 2 p.m. open to the public fopcon.org

National Seed Swap Day Seed Savers Exchange 1 to 3 p.m. Vesterheim Commons 508 W. Water St., Decorah, IA All ages; free SeedSavers.org/events/ national-seed-swap-day

February 7

The Great Seed (and Soil!) Event 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. MCC Cafeteria, McHenry County College 8900 U.S. 14, Crystal Lake 815-479-7563 Eventbrite.com/e/the-great-seed-event-of2026-tickets-1500395215479 See ad on page 15.

February 21

Seed Swap With Sustain DuPage 1 to 3 p.m. Wheaton Public Library, Meeting Room A 225 N. Cross St., Wheaton WheatonLibrary.org/event/ seed-swap-sustain-dupage-131107

February 28

Conservation@Home: Seed Swap & Plant Exchange 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Swallow Cliff Woods – North Pavilion Calumet Sag Rd./Rte. 83 (Near Palos Park) fpdcc.com/event/ conservationhome-seed-swap-plant-exchange

March 7

Annual Seed Exchange CARE & White Oak Library District 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. White Oak Library, Lockport Branch 121 E. 8th St., Lockport Inclement weather date: February 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. WillCountyCare.org/care-seed-exchange

Extension Master Gardener Seed Expo at CLC 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. College of Lake County 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake Hosted by Lake County Master Gardeners, Grow Lake County Facebook.com/events/1534302167798397

February 14

March 8

Seed Swap Park District of Franklin Park 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Community Center 9560 Franklin Ave., Franklin Park All ages; free fpparks.org/event/seed-swap-2

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DGC/IPPL Seed & Houseplant Exchange 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Indian Prairie Public Library Keshav Sanghani Meeting Room (2nd Fl) 401 Plainfield Rd., Darien All ages Walk-up event; registration not required DarienGardenClub.com January 2026

Natural Chicago

As Northern Landscapes Freeze, Chicago Welcomes

Seasonal Songbirds by Sheryl DeVore

hough a snowy, cold winter may not seem like an ideal time to watch birds in the Chicago region, certain species appear mostly during this season, and some are fairly easy to find with a bit of knowledge about where and how to look. Some can even be attracted to yards.

Dark-Eyed Juncos Are Back in Chicago Region Yards and Parks

Each winter, dark-eyed juncos appear in the Chicago region after breeding farther north, Holden notes. Juncos are easy to spot in yards and natural areas. They have dark backs and breasts, white bellies and pink bills, and are noticed by even the most casual birders. They visit backyards where feeders are available, but they don’t typically perch on the feeders like year-round residents such as black-capped chickadees. Instead, they hop on the ground, pecking at seeds dropped by messy birds such as mourning doves and house finches. Some occasionally perch on feeders to grab a morsel of peanut or thistle. The dark-eyed junco is an abundant migrant and winter resident statewide in Illinois, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Some arrive as early as late August, while others come later and remain through the winter. “During the bleak season, when all the world seems drab and plain and colorless, a passel of dark-eyed juncos is an indescribably refreshing sight,” writes Dan Lory, a Chicago Ornithological Society blogger. “If you happen upon a foraging flock, the ground around you comes to life with velvety gray balls jumping up like popcorn and flitting to nearby trees or shrubs. When they spread their tails to bank or to land, they flash bright white outer tail feathers,” he relays. 22

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Photo by Steven D. Bailey

“Winter can be a wonderful time to go birding, as well as to feed birds,” says Chris Holden, field trip chairman for the Chicago Ornithological Society. “With many trees and other flora leafless, it can be a lot easier to not only spot birds, but also get fantastic views of them.”

Dark-eyed Junco.

Dark-eyed juncos remain here through at least early April and serve not only as a harbinger of winter, but also of spring, according to Lory. “Anyone who keeps bird feeders in their yard through the winter knows this bird’s spring call very well. Its warm, high-pitched trill brightens the dead gray surroundings well before any green leaves begin to appear,” he writes.

American Tree Sparrows Visit Chicago Every Winter

Another winter-only visitor to the Chicago region is the American tree sparrow. Its name is not quite accurate because this sparrow breeds on the treeless tundra. The species is petite—smaller than many year-round sparrows—but has a proportionately longer tail. It has a rusty cap, eyeline and back with two white wing bars. Its belly is white with a dark central spot, and a close look through binoculars can reveal its dark upper bill and yellow lower bill. American tree sparrows winter in weedy fields, along fence rows, at woodland edges, in thickets and in grain fields. When snow makes seeds harder to reach, they visit yards with feeders. They hop or scratch on the ground for food alongside dark-eyed juncos and also use their wings to shake seeds loose from asters and other flower heads projecting above the snow. Good places to look for them beyond backyard feeders include lakefront parks such as Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary and Illinois Beach State Park. As winter ends, they head far north to their tundra breeding grounds. Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Red-Breasted Nuthatches Are Fairly Common in Chicagoland This Season

Red-breasted nuthatches live year-round in coniferous forests across Canada and northeastern United States. They move south, typically every two years, when seed-laden cones on spruce, pine and fir trees are scarce in their northern ranges. Poor cone crops this season in the eastern boreal forest have sent the species southward, even as far as Alabama, according to Tyler Hoar, author of the annual winter birds forecast report (FinchNetwork.org/winter-finchforecast-2025-2026) as well as many books on birds including Birds of Canada with co-authors Wayne Campbell and Ken De Smet. The red-breasted nuthatch is 4.5 inches long, with blue-gray upperparts, rusty underparts, a white cheek and throat, a black cap, white eyebrow and white eyeline. The female has a lighter cap and more diffuse rust on her breast. “Don’t confuse the red-breasted with the white-breasted nuthatch, which stays in the Chicago region all year,” Holden says. The whitebreasted is larger, lacks the black eyeline and has white underparts and face with a bluish-gray back. The male has a black cap; the female’s is light gray.

Red-breasted Nuthatch.

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

American Tree Sparrow.

Both species forage head-down on tree trunks, probing for insect larvae hidden in bark. They also store seeds from trees and feeders in bark crevices, creating a winter pantry. Birders have reported seeing red-breasted nuthatches this fall and winter in Mundelein, Schaumburg, Lockport, Horner Park, Chicago and other communities, both at feeders offering peanut pieces and sunflower seeds and in natural areas with conifers full of seeds the birds love. Seeing any of these winter visitors is a good reason to get outdoors, Holden suggests. “Winter birding can shift your mindset,” he says. “It’s easy to think of the winter as a time to hibernate, figuratively speaking, in order to avoid the cold and snow. However, if you can learn to think of it as a special time to get outside, an opportunity to see things that you can’t see at other times such as birds from up north, it can really help with cabin fever,” he says.

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as nature, health and environment stories for national and regional publications. Read more at SherylDeVore.WordPress.com.

Coming in February’s edition of Natural Awakenings Chicago: Irruptive Winter Finches We’ll highlight small birds that sometimes visit the Chicago region in large numbers during winter, and other times are scarce or absent. Coverage will include pine siskin, evening grosbeak, redpoll and crossbills, along with tips on how to attract or spot them.

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January 2026

Feature Story

The Power of Integrative Medicine A Guide to Whole-Person Care by Hannah Tytus

s interest in health and wellness grows, more people are seeking medical models that go beyond symptom treatment and disease management. Integrative medicine has emerged as one such approach, blending conventional and complementary methods to address the health of the whole person. An integrative health approach offers a practical, evidence-informed framework for personalized care. Its focus is shifting the conversation to prevention by cultivating holistic health that goes beyond the absence of disease.

Defining Integrative Medicine

The Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine & Health defines integrative medicine as a philosophy that emphasizes the practitioner-patient relationship, focuses on the whole person, is evidence based and draws on all appropriate therapies and lifestyle approaches that promote optimal health and healing. Brent Bauer, M.D., a professor of medicine and the research chair for Mayo Clinic Integrative Medicine and Health, describes it as “bringing the best of both conventional

and evidence-based complementary therapies together to optimally meet the needs of the patient. We simply ask, what is the best therapy for the individual patient? That gets us back to what I would think of as plain old good medicine.” On an integrative health team, medical doctors may work alongside acupuncturists, naturopaths, herbalists, chiropractors, massage therapists or any number of specialized practitioners. “Integrative medicine is taking the best of what we call Western medicine and integrating it into what is practiced in other parts of the world to create a health plan where the patient is the focus,” says Hakima Amri, Ph.D., co-director of the integrative medicine and health sciences program at Georgetown University. These other medicine systems include Traditional Chinese Medicine, Indian Ayurveda, Unani-Tibb medicine, homeopathy and others.

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The Whole-Person Mindset

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Integrative medicine is about viewing patients holistically, considering all parts of their humanity. Rather than examining organs or systems in isolation, practitioners evaluate the multitude of factors that influence illness or well-being. It emphasizes disease prevention, resilience building and health restoration throughout the lifespan. “We bring a whole team of practitioners to work with the patient, to look at the patient as a whole and not only treat symptoms, but to truly heal the patient,” explains Amri.

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Whole-person health rests on five key principles: patient-centered, relationship-based care; personalized health plans; attention to physical, mental and spiritual well-being; prevention and self-responsibility; and collaboration across modalities and providers. It acknowledges the patient as being embedded in environmental, relational, emotional and spiritual contexts that each play a part.

Integrative Medicine in Practice

Bauer explains how an integrative approach might work for a surgery patient. “If they have pain, a conventional approach might include medications, physical therapy or perhaps an injection. As an integrative physician, I have an even larger toolkit with things such as acupuncture, tuina (a Chinese bodywork technique), massage, mind-body practices like yoga and meditation, herbs and supplements, and low-level laser therapy.” As the medical doctor leading the team, Bauer confers with other in-house practitioners to build a customized care plan. This expanded toolkit gives him a better chance of finding a therapy that not only works for the patient but also fits their personal preferences to optimize their quality of life.

patients with chronic disease. By definition, most chronic illnesses are ones that conventional medicine cannot cure.” At the Mayo Clinic, he sees firsthand how integrative approaches can transform lives. He often introduces mindfulness and biofeedback-based meditation to help patients manage stress. Beyond symptom relief, Bauer emphasizes a comprehensive lifestyle framework rooted in integrative principles that include balanced nutrition, regular exercise, daily mind-body practice, restorative sleep, strong social and spiritual connections, and time in nature, finding these evidence-based habits to be not only restorative, but profoundly transformative.

Communicating With Healthcare Providers

Although one-third of adults report using complementary and integrative medicine modalities, at least 42 percent of users do not disclose their integrative therapy usage to their doctor. This nondisclosure can be dangerous, as many integrative modalities can potentially interact with medications or chronic conditions. Amri offers an example: “Ginkgo biloba is good for improving memory, but it is also a blood thinner. If someone is on prescription blood thinners, it could cause serious complications.” Many herbs and supplements can interact with prescription medications and preexisting conditions, so it is very important to establish an open and honest dialogue with healthcare providers. To facilitate good conversations, Amri advises patients to be open and well-prepared. She encourages patients to bring their research materials with them to their appointments: “Do your research ahead of time,” she says. “If there are papers or studies you find interesting, take them with you and share them with your doctor. Be prepared and explain why you want to try certain therapies.”

Why Whole-Person Health Matters

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“Chronic conditions are the biggest plight to humanity today. People are living with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, irritable bowel disorders and more, often with multiple conditions at once,” says Amri. Chronic disease is now a leading health challenge in the United States, heavily impacting quality of life for many. One in four American adults lives with chronic pain. At the same time, the use of complementary and integrative approaches has risen sharply from 19.2 percent in 2002 to 36.7 percent in 2022, with increases in yoga and meditation leading the growth. “I think integrative medicine is an excellent approach for any patient,” says Bauer. “But I think it really shines when it comes to Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

January 2026

Feature Story

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Integrative medicine brings together evidence, empathy and empowerment, uniting the best of conventional, traditional and complementary approaches. It emphasizes collaboration between patients and providers, shared responsibility for wellness and a comprehensive focus on the whole person. By bridging therapies, fostering dialogue and addressing chronic disease with both science and compassion, integrative care offers a hopeful path to redefining modern health. Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator at KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and former writer at the National Institutes of Health.

“Physicians can do their part by listening carefully and by honestly acknowledging where their knowledge base might be limited,” says Bauer. “This is a great time for them to reach out to their integrative medicine colleagues and have them provide guidance to help meet the patient’s needs with evidence-based approaches.”

Looking Ahead

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Despite the growth in integrative medicine, key barriers remain. Bauer points to insurance as the biggest gap, explaining, “Very few of these evidence-based, helpful, cost-avoiding therapies are covered by payers. My hope is that we see that change significantly in the immediate future. In a five-to-10-year time frame, I think we’ll simply drop all the labels and call it good medicine.” Amri also sees the field evolving quickly. “We’ve been training a whole generation of researchers that look at things differently,” she remarks, adding that policy reform and adequate reimbursements are essential to making integrative care more accessible.

2026 Editorial Calendar January Whole-Person Health & Wellness

Chicago

July Good Vibes, Great Outdoors

February Nurture the Heart

August Building Healthy Foundations

March Nourish & Flourish

September Inner Balance

April Sustainable Together

October How Healing Works

May Vitality Her Way

November Rooted in Gratitude

June Men Built To Thrive

December Living Generously

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January 2026

Conscious Eating

Soulful Sourdough

A Belly-Friendly Treat

Why This Bread Still Heals by Maya Whitman

ourdough, made from flour, water, salt and starter, is the oldest form of leavened bread, originating with the ancient Egyptians. Unlike most yeast breads, sourdough has a low glycemic index and does not spike blood sugar levels. A 2024 study in Foods highlights its benefits compared to other types of bread, including improved digestibility, high mineral and antioxidant content, better blood sugar control and improved dietary fiber composition, including prebiotics to feed healthy gut bacteria.

With knowledge, a good starter and patience, sourdough can become a lifelong friend, offering more than just the iconic crusty loaf. “The same living starter that makes a loaf rise can become the morning’s pancakes, the evening’s pizza or even a tray of chocolate chip cookies,” says Robitaille. “Once you understand how the culture behaves, you can shape it into nearly anything: soft rolls, bagels, waffles, muffins, even pastry.”

According to Emily Harryman, owner of Plain Jane Bakes, in Keller, Texas, and author of the upcoming cookbook Plain Jane Sourdough, her customers with irritable bowel syndrome and gluten intolerance attest to sourdough’s superiority. “I had one customer in particular who relayed to me that my bread was the only bread she could eat,” Harryman boasts. “She took my sourdough class before she moved out of state

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Artisans that master its versatility also find sourdough to be a source of emotional nourishment. “You hear the crust crackle as

it cools, smell the warmth of grain and time, and know that something very old and very human has happened in your own kitchen,” says Lisa Robitaille, founder of Great Lakes Sourdough, in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

While many yeast breads cause bloating and other gut discomforts, sourdough is gentler. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular consumption of sourdough can improve the intestinal microbiome. “During a long fermentation, the yeast and bacteria produce enzymes that help break down gluten and some carbohydrates and reduce phytic acid, a grain compound that can block mineral absorption. The result is a sourdough bread many people find easier to digest,” explains Katya Nikolov, a cancer research scientist and owner of Dubuque Bakery, in Snohomish, Washington. “My view is simple and science-first: When it is slowly fermented and made with high-quality flour, sourdough can be a delicious, gut-friendly ally within a varied, balanced diet.”

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Tips for Beginners

A sourdough starter is a live, active, fermented culture made from flour and water that acts as a leavening agent for baked goods, replacing commercial yeast and providing a signature tangy flavor. Sourdough starters vary greatly depending on water-to-flour ratios (from liquid to stiff), flavor profiles (from tangy to sour to slightly sweet) and flour types (from whole grain rye to whole wheat to unbleached all-purpose). The secret to sourdough success is letting nature take its course. Fresh herbs, fruit, cheese, seeds or chocolate can be folded into the dough for a delicious taste experience, but behind every fresh-from-the-oven masterpiece is a good starter. Each one is unique, thanks to a mélange of elements. As Harryman explains, “When the wild yeasts from the starter mingle and consume the sugars in the flour, carbon dioxide gas is released. The dough’s gluten network traps the gas, causing the dough to rise, yielding sourdough’s renowned, airy crumb.”

“Sourdough bread baking isn’t just following a recipe; it’s understanding the living system in your bowl and a constant response to a changing environment like temperature, season, humidity and flour,” says Nikolov, who recommends using a scale, keeping notes and aiming for steady, comfortable temperatures between 72° and 78° F for both the starter and dough. She generally prefers clean, non-processed, organic whole-grain flours milled directly from the grain, as well as ancient wheats like einkorn and spelt. For reliability and depth of flavor, Harryman suggests acquiring a mature starter fed with organic flour, ideally dark rye. This can be accomplished by connecting with a local sourdough baker or ordering a well-reviewed, dehydrated sourdough starter. “They are fairly easy to revive, and some are nearly 100 years old in maturity,” she explains. For a gluten-free option, she recommends building a starter from scratch to be sure of its purity. Robitaille underscores the importance of time, grain and imagination for flavor. “Red Fife [a North American heirloom wheat variety] brings a quiet sweetness; rye adds depth and spice; and whole wheat speaks of the harvest field,” she explains. In a busy

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so she could replicate it in her new home. It was such a blessing to her.”

world, baking bread can be a grounding, meditative act that also nourishes family and friends. “There is a kind of stillness in the act of baking that feels sacred. You watch a living culture transform simple ingredients into sustenance,” she muses. “That, to me, is magic.” Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

Mmmmmmm!

Fill your home with the delicious aroma of fresh-baked sourdough bread . . . … Find more bread recipes at NAChicago.com! Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

January 2026

YIELD: 1 LOAF 3 cups white-bread or all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat flour 1½ cup water ½ cup active sourdough starter ¾ Tbsp honey 1¾ tsp salt Rice flour for dusting

Once the dough has proofed, lightly dust the counter with rice flour. Turn out the dough onto a clean work surface and shape it into a ball by hand—this is called a pre-shape. Let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes on the counter uncovered.

Combine all ingredients except the rice flour in a bowl or stand mixer. Mix just until no dry flour remains and the dough is cohesive. The bulk fermentation process begins as soon as the starter is mixed with the other ingredients, which means that the dough will rise and grow in size while it ferments. Cover the dough with a damp linen kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour at 73° to 75° F room temperature.

To cold proof the dough, cover the loaf with a damp linen kitchen towel and refrigerate 12 to 16 hours.

Stretch and fold the dough as follows: With lightly wet fingertips, grab a portion of the dough and stretch it upward. Fold the dough over toward the center of the bowl. Give the bowl a quarter turn and repeat the stretch and fold. Continue to turn, stretch and fold until the circle is complete. Cover the dough and let it sit for 30 minutes. Repeat this stretchand-fold process three more times, letting the dough rest for 30 minutes in between. After the fourth set of stretch-and-folds, cover the dough with a linen cloth or towel and allow it to ferment at room temperature. Let the dough proof (rise until the needed bulk

30 30

is complete) approximately 5 hours, but the time may vary. Watch the dough, not the clock, looking for a noticeable rise of about 60 to 75 percent, a slightly domed surface, bubbles on the surface and an airy feel with a gentle jiggle.

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Shape the dough and place it seam-side up in a rice-flour dusted banneton (or extra-large bowl lined with a linen cloth). Let the shaped dough rest at room temperature for 1 hour to start fermentation before the cold proof.

Place an oven-safe cast iron Dutch oven with the lid onto the center rack of the oven. Preheat the oven to 480° F for 1 hour. Invert the cold dough onto parchment paper, score the loaf, load it into the hot Dutch oven and cover it with the lid. Bake covered for 20 minutes to trap steam and drive dough expansion. After 20 minutes, remove the lid, reduce the oven to 450° F and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the loaf is deep golden. It is ready when the internal temperature is 205° to 210° F. Let the loaf cool for 1 to 2 hours before slicing, so that the crumb can set. Recipe courtesy of Katya Nikolov of Dubuque Bakery.

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EVERYDAY SOURDOUGH LOAF WITH HONEY

Farmers Markets

Winter Farmers Markets Keep Local Food on the Table Year-Round by Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN Executive Director, Illinois Farmers Market Association

Photo credit Mighty Greens Farm

Winter markets provide access to high-quality, fresh-tasting, locally produced

Lettuce grows within a Mighty Greens Farm hoophouse.

products—and every purchase makes a difference. Supporting winter markets helps farmers, artisans and other small food businesses maintain steady sales and income throughout the year. Extending the market season strengthens local food systems and keeps dollars circulating within the community. Many farmers market staples are produced year-round, including honey, meat, poultry, eggs, dairy and cheese, bread and baked goods, sweets, and preserved or packaged foods. Winter farmers markets also evolve with the season. As summer markets wind down in September or October, early winter markets often feature fresh fall crops like beets, spinach, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, potatoes and apples, along with squash and other hearty greens.

such as fresh pasta and sauces—alongside favorites like carrots, beets, radishes, apples and even flowers. Each winter farmers market reflects its community and features a unique mix of vendors. Shoppers are encouraged to check a market’s website or Facebook page to learn what it offers before visiting. Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN, is the executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ilfma.org.

As colder weather moves in, fruits like apples and storage-friendly root crops—including carrots, beets and kohlrabi—are kept in cold storage, extending their shelf life without sacrificing taste or quality. That fresh fall flavor is preserved to be enjoyed all winter long. Many growers also use season extension practices, making salad greens available even during the coldest months. At the winter market I attend regularly, offerings include microgreens, mushrooms, salad greens, cheeses, bread and baked goods, meat, poultry, eggs, and artisan foods

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Photo credit Mighty Greens Farm

inter farmers markets are popping up in communities across Illinois, offering a chance to stay connected with local growers, artisans and makers through the colder months. The Illinois Farmers Market Association publishes a list of winter farmers markets on its website (ilfma.org/find-a-market). Most winter markets are held indoors and often move to a different location than their summer counterparts, with adjusted days and hours, though a few communities host outdoor markets all year-round. Winter markets may feature returning vendors and new vendors, expanding the variety of options for customers.

Hoophouses at Mighty Greens Farm in Elburn.

January 2026

Recipe From a Farmers Market Kitchen

Photo credit Janie Maxwell

Create a Flavorful Frittata With Winter Market Selections by Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN Executive Director, Illinois Farmers Market Association

Mushroom and Spinach Frittata

Winter farmers markets feature products available year-round, including meat, poultry, eggs, dairy and cheese, bread and baked goods, sweets, and preserved or packaged foods. Thanks to season-extension practices by farms, a limited variety of fresh produce may also be available.

8 large eggs* ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese* ½ cup milk ½ tsp salt 2 Tbsp butter 1 clove garlic*, minced 1 shallot*, minced 8 oz cremini (baby bella) mushrooms*, sliced 2 cups spinach*, stems removed Freshly ground pepper Locally produced hot sauce* *May be available at a winter farmers market

ost summer farmers markets wind down in October and November, but a new trend is emerging: winter farmers markets. More and more communities are hosting them. You can find a list of winter farmers markets published by the Illinois Farmers Market Association at ilfma.org/find-a-market.

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

At the winter market I attend regularly, I find microgreens, mushrooms, lettuce, cheeses, bread and baked goods, meat, poultry, eggs and artisan foods like fresh pasta, sauces and fall produce such as carrots, beets, radishes and apples—and flowers.

Photo credit Janie Maxwell

Each market is unique. I recommend checking their website or Facebook page to see what each one offers.

Photo courtesy Rawpixel AgDaily.com

This month’s recipe uses items commonly found at winter markets: eggs, spinach, cheese and mushrooms.

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Preheat the oven to 375° F.

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In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, cheese, milk and salt. Set aside. Melt the butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot; sauté until soft. Stir in mushrooms and cook 5 to 7 minutes until soft. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Pour egg mixture into the pan. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the edges begin to brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is a great dish for a quick dinner or a relaxed brunch. Serve with a side salad for dinner or roasted potatoes for breakfast or brunch. Add a splash of locally produced hot sauce for an extra kick. Janie Maxwell, MS, RDN, is the executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ILFMA.org.

Support Local: Why Farmers Markets Matter The Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA) helps make fresh, local food available across the state by supporting farmers markets and the people that run them. Shopping at farmers markets isn’t just about delicious farm fresh products—it’s about building stronger communities, supporting small farms and making healthy food accessible to all. Many Illinois markets accept SNAP and WIC benefits, thanks in part to ILFMA’s efforts. Local markets reduce environmental impact and connect people directly with growers. Every visit supports a more sustainable food system. For more information or to find a market nearby, visit ilfma.org.

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January 2026

Local Food Dispatch

Ten Natural Food Product Trends That Reflect How We Shop and Eat This Year by Bob Benenson

hile the economy has experienced many ups and downs over the past decade, the data shows that one trend has remained consistent: Demand for natural food and other natural products has grown faster than demand for conventional products.

According to the panel of industry experts that participated in a December 4 industry webinar, hosted by Naturally Chicago, the trade association for the region’s natural products industry, the growth gap between natural and conventional may be accelerating, as interest in natural products has blossomed into a lifestyle choice, especially for younger shoppers. The webinar, titled Growth and Disruption Trends for Natural Brands and Retailers 2026, featured experts from SPINS, the leading provider of data and industry insights, and KeHE, the largest wholesale distributor of better-for-people-and-the-planet products in North America—both founding partners of Naturally Chicago.

This rise is fueled by shoppers that are younger, higher income and more values-driven than the consumer market as a whole. These consumers are less likely to trade down purely on price. “At KeHE, we remain very bullish on 2026 for natural and organic products,” Nehring said.

“Conscious consumption” is the new baseline, not a niche.

Here are the top 10 takeaways for brands and shoppers heading into the new year, based on the discussion between moderator Hannah Law, senior vice president and chief of staff at SPINS, and panelists Marc Nehring, director of growth solutions at KeHE, and Scott Dicker, senior director of market insights at SPINS.

Natural shoppers are resilient—even in a time of inflation.

According to the panel, natural and specialty unit growth at grocery stores has risen by about 4 percent year over year, well more than twice the 1.5 percent growth in the conventional sector.

A growing number of shoppers are acting deliberately to seek out products that promote health and are produced with sustainable practices. That is especially true of younger consumers: According to the panel, 90 percent of Gen Z and Millennials are actively avoiding or seeking out specific ingredients. As a result, brands can no longer get by with vague claims of “better for you”; they need to expect scrutiny on ingredient lists, processing and sourcing.

Photo by Liubomir for Adobe Stock

“People are more conscious about what they’re consuming,” said Dicker. “They’re preferring selective eating patterns that favor whole foods and move away from what they deem more processed or artificial.”

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Design wellness into everything.

Wearable technology and apps are turning food choices into real-time health feedback, which will boost products clearly linked to energy, sleep, mood, cognition and metabolic health.

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Law emphasized to brands and retailers, “Your ability to keep up, to engage with your customers everywhere and anywhere will be the key to success going forward.”

“Return to real” means simple, whole and local.

Whole foods, short labels and recognizable ingredients are gaining ground, with roughly 70 percent of shoppers preferring to buy local when they can.

Protein is still king—but becoming more premium.

The health benefits of protein have led to a surge in interest in products providing the nutrient. Dicker said the market has not reached “peak protein,” with protein powders, high-protein dairy and high-protein snacks continuing to grow. Premium animal proteins such as grass-fed, organic or nonGMO meats and dairy are outpacing conventional options.

Fiber is the next big thing.

The panel shared an estimate that 95 percent of Americans underconsume fiber, a nutrient crucial to health maintenance and disease prevention. But rising consumer awareness has products with high-fiber and prebiotic claims poised for rapid growth.

Healthier trend will reach “lunchbox categories.”

The trend of healthier and more sustainable eating is no longer just about specialized products. Everyday items such as deli meats, bread and condiments are meeting this rising consumer demand. These are prime spaces for producers and retailers to bring in clean-label, global flavors, functionality or “affordable premium” angles.

For natural products marketers, the “informed shopper” needs to be their default.

These consumers scan, compare and verify via apps, social media and reviews. Product claims must be simple, specific and defensible. “The broader message of just ‘better for you’ won’t work anymore,” Nehring said.

Omnichannel marketing

and AI discovery must be priorities from day one.

Social commerce is on track to be a $100 billion industry, and online media provides increasing opportunities for consumers to shop directly on websites.

Global flavors are disrupting mature product categories.

As natural products continue to evolve, brands and retailers that understand the informed, conscious consumer will be best positioned for growth in 2026. From focusing on wellness and protein innovation to embracing omnichannel marketing and AI-driven discovery, the trends highlighted by the panel offer a roadmap for navigating a dynamic marketplace.

Nehring said shoppers are “not just trying new flavors; they’re really going deeper and exploring cuisines.”

Bob Benenson is the writer and publisher of Local Food Forum, a Chicago-based publication that maintains a regional farmers market tracker and covers the markets regularly. For more information, visit LocalFoodForum.com.

“Look for fiber to really have a moment…. Brands will try to differentiate type and amount of fiber, as well as new ways to innovate,” said Dicker.

According to the panel’s research, 64 percent of consumers want more international options from their primary grocer.

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Fit Body

Strong for Life The Power of Functional Fitness by Zak Logan

decline in mobility begins between ages 40 and 55 and accelerates with each decade, according to a 2017 study in The Journals of Gerontology. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly 40 percent of people ages 65 and older have at least one disability. However, consistent, targeted activity can maintain or even improve the ability to rise from a chair, climb stairs, carry groceries or get onto the floor. Functional fitness exercises that mimic daily tasks like reaching, twisting, squatting and bending enhance quality of life, manage pain and aid injury recovery at any age.

Moving Better, Not Harder

Aches and pains or feelings of limitation often result from a lack of consistent movement, rather than biological age. “As our world has gone more toward technology,

we’ve created a situation where we need to get our movement and cardio elsewhere,” observes Sharon Bourke, a certified medical exercise specialist and executive director of The Life Energy Foundation, in Rockville, Maryland. Because she lives with the challenges of fibromyalgia, Bourke knows firsthand how ill health can lead to loss of fitness. She shares, “I started walking only five minutes a day because I would get a setback if I did more. I did this for two weeks. Once I was gaining energy, I added another five minutes. Every time I had a couple of good weeks, I would add more. Was it slow? Yes. Was it worth it? Oh yes!”

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A 2021 systematic review in Frontiers in Physiology found functional training

beneficial for the development of agility, balance and speed. And a 2024 study in Advances in Rheumatology showed that a functional fitness program for fibromyalgia patients was more effective than stretching exercises at reducing pain and improving quality of life and general health. Additional benefits include better cardiovascular health and improved metabolism, without the need for expensive gym memberships or elaborate equipment.

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According to certified fitness coach Travis Weber, in Mountain View, California, functional fitness focuses on how the body moves as a system, not on bulking specific muscle groups. “It’s about moving better, not harder,” he explains. “When performed correctly, these exercises let the body stretch and strengthen at the same time, building mobile, flexible strength that translates directly to everyday life.”

Vital Moves and Modifications

For easier chair access or stair climbing, Harvard Health recommends functional exercises like the stationary split squat, which targets the quads, gluteal muscles and hamstrings; addresses muscular imbalances by working each leg separately; and is gentler on the knees and ankles than traditional lunges. A stationary split squat starts in a lunge position, lowering the back knee to tap the floor while keeping the upper body straight and holding onto a chair for stability. Squats, with or without weights, strengthen core, leg and gluteal muscles needed to rise from a chair or lift objects. Classic push-ups can be done on the floor from toes or knees, or against a wall. Upper body strength enables picking up a toddler and placing a suitcase in the overhead bin. “Some exercises use your own body weight with acceleration (going fast) and

Weber points out that the body moves more freely without heavy resistance; for example, stretching with a weight instead of tightening against it improves flexibility and mobility over time. He recommends lightweight deadlifts and any lightweight squat variation, “because they recruit nearly every muscle in the body while allowing you to move with control and awareness, reinforcing strength and coordination in everyday tasks like bending, lifting or getting up from the floor.” For those seeking a trainer or class, he advises finding an instructor that prioritizes form and quality of movement over speed or intensity. If a full workout isn’t feasible, he suggests a 15-to-20-minute walk that can make a huge difference.

Bourke confirms that strict training routines are not necessary, sharing, “Play with your kids or grandkids. Dance around the house. Sit less. Get up and do some tasks like cleaning or running errands rather than having things delivered.” Weber asserts, “Building healthy habits doesn’t have to mean overhauling your life. It’s about small, consistent actions that add up. When movement and recovery both feel rewarding, consistency becomes natural.” Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living.

Photo by Bojan for Adobe Stock

Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

Stationary split squat

deceleration (slowing down) to build strength in a certain movement pattern. For instance, going from sitting to standing at a timed speed would increase your ability to get up out of a chair,” explains Bourke, emphasizing fitness geared toward multi-joint movements that resemble everyday activities. Some of her clients that struggled to get up and down from the floor improved by engaging in functional exercises while in bed, and she endorses tailored exercise regimens for pain reduction.

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READY TO FEEL AMAZING AGAIN? Start the year with our January Healthy Living Reset—a simple system to improve gut health, boost energy, and help you feel lighter and more balanced from the inside out. A few simple, daily habits to help you prioritize your wellness! And an opportunity to try Arbonne products! January 2026

Mindful Adventures

The Rise of Transformational Travel Why Wellness Journeys are Becoming the Modern Reset

or many years, a vacation meant a short pause—sun on one’s face, a good meal, maybe a massage—before returning to the same pace that was left behind. But travelers today are craving something more. They want clarity. They want grounding. They want to step into a place that changes them from the inside out. Transformational travel begins the moment we enter an environment that feels different from our everyday world. Maybe it’s the warm mineral steam rising from an Icelandic hot spring, the hush of a jungle path in Costa Rica or sunrise spilling across Balinese rice terraces. These landscapes do more than impress the senses—they soften something in us the moment we arrive.

On a retreat in Mexico, a small group began their evening by walking barefoot along a stone path toward a candlelit ceremony space tucked into the jungle. The scent of copal drifted through the air. A local healer welcomed them inside. One traveler later said, “It was the first deep breath I’d taken all year.”

Photo courtesy The 1111 Experience

A recent Global Wellness Institute report

projects wellness tourism to reach $1.3 trillion by 2025, with “transformational experiences” listed as the top motivation for wellness travelers. This lines up with another telling statistic from the American Psychological Association: 75 percent of adults report frequent symptoms of stress and overload. It’s no wonder more people are seeking travel that restores them at a deeper level than a typical vacation can offer.

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Photo courtesy The 1111 Experience

by Shae Marcus

Moments like this are the quiet heartbeat of transformational travel—simple, grounding and impossible to experience in the middle of daily noise. These journeys blend place, intention and lived experience in a way that creates true internal reset. Mornings often begin with meditation overlooking mountains or ocean. Days may include guided journaling under open skies, nature immersions, restorative movement practices or time spent in healing spaces: cenotes, thermal pools, sacred sites or traditional sweat lodge ceremonies led by experienced practitioners. Even meals play a role—fresh, local and intentionally prepared to support the body’s return to balance. The impact is backed by research. A study in Frontiers in Psychology found that extended immersion in natural environments reduces cortisol, sharpens cognitive function and helps re-pattern emotional responses. Anyone that has ever felt themselves breathe

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easier near the ocean or think more clearly in the mountains knows this intuitively. Nature doesn’t just relax us—it recalibrates us. Experts emphasize that transformational travel rests on three essential pillars:

1. Intention

Photo courtesy The 1111 Experience

Arriving with a clear desire—whether release, clarity, healing or simply quiet—sets the tone for the entire experience.

2. Immersion

Being fully present in the environment, the practices and the cultural wisdom of the place allow deeper layers of insight to emerge.

3. Integration

This is where the transformation takes root. It’s the journaling on the flight home, the new boundary honored and the healthier habit that finally sticks.

an invitation. Somewhere in the world—on a coastline, in a forest, near a sacred site or inside a beautifully held retreat—there’s a moment waiting that could shift everything.

There’s also a growing awareness around traveling responsibly—honoring local traditions, working with trained practitioners, supporting community-based wellness and respecting the land. When approached with care, these experiences connect travelers not only to themselves, but to the culture and wisdom that hold the space for their healing.

Sometimes the most meaningful journey we take is the one that brings us back to ourselves.

What surprises many travelers is that the biggest shift happens after they return home. People report better sleep, more grounded communication, healthier habits and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s not about escaping life—it’s about reentering life with a steadier center. As we step into a new year—a season naturally aligned with reflection and renewal— transformational travel offers more than a getaway. It offers possibility. It invites us to step out of routine and into landscapes that help us remember who we are at our core. For those that may feel the quiet pull toward stillness, adventure or simply a place where the mind can finally exhale, consider this

Shae Marcus, publisher of the Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia editions, is also the founder of The 11:11 Experience. She offers this piece as a gentle reminder that wherever we feel called next, trust that nudge—it often knows the way before we do. For more information, visit www.The1111Experience.com.

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Inspiration

Baby Steps to a Life Well Lived by Marlaina Donato

Twelve months is not long to transform, build a business or heal on the cellular level. Reaching the end of another year without crossing our personal finish line does not mean we have failed. It simply offers us another opportunity, another 12 months, to continue investing in our baby steps. New year’s resolutions can be a way of living without deadlines. Ideas for a brand-new year: • Allot 10 minutes twice a day for true self-care, which might include meditation, stillness, listening to music or a few invigorating stretches. • Allocate three hours a week for a cherished project.

reathing in the fresh air of a new year can be both invigorating and a little intimidating. We are encouraged to set resolutions, dive headfirst into greater and better lives, and release outdated beliefs. What can begin as a promising path of good intentions may quickly become overwhelming. By spring, some of us may not even remember our January aspirations. But if we silence the well-meaning shoulds and have-tos, it is possible to confidently step into a new chapter at our own pace, increasing our chances of success.

• View goals as sacred. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

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This year, instead of lofty resolutions, let’s choose baby steps toward better health or a more peaceful life, basing our hopes on realistic simplicity and modifying our goals into small dedications—sacred vows we uphold and share only with those we trust. Just as a tiny seed lies dormant in the frozen earth waiting for the right moment to transform, we can rise at the perfect time and reveal our vibrant potential. Allotting a little time each day to baby steps can become something to eagerly await—writing another paragraph of that novel-in-progress, cooking something delicious that nourishes the body, learning a few words in a language course or simply saying no to anything that distracts us from nurturing our growth or bliss.

click on

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NETWORK LISTINGS

ENERGY & HEALING ARTS NETWORK 2026 NATURAL AWAKENINGS CHICAGO

Connect, share and grow with Natural Awakenings Chicago’s Energy & Healing Arts Network (EHAN) — a dedicated monthly section designed for local practitioners and businesses to spotlight offerings, connect with our readers and foster meaningful connections.

NEWS BRIEF

Photo courtesy Agape House

Agape House Expands to New Cook County Location in 2026 The Agape House will expand its healing community this year with a new location in Cook County, a major milestone that extends its services beyond its original home in DuPage County. The new site will open at 1903 South Harvey Avenue, on the second floor, in Berwyn, increasing access to the organization’s holistic programming.

This expansion reflects The Agape House’s ongoing commitment to spiritual wellness, energy work and community-centered support. Leaders say the Berwyn location will welcome both practitioners and community members, furthering the organization’s mission of restoration, connection and compassionate care. Tina McDonald, Founder and Owner of Agape House

The Agape House will continue to operate its established Wheaton facility, ensuring its long-standing community will remain rooted while new connections form. As The Agape House prepares for this new chapter, organizers say the expansion offers hope—both for those seeking healing and for a growing network of practitioners dedicated to spiritual, emotional and energetic wellness. Location: 416 E. Roosevelt Rd., Ste. 107, Wheaton. For more information, visit TheAgapeHouseHealing.com. See ad in the Energy & Healing Arts Network Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com. CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS

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January 2026

Wise Words

Dean Mitchell on Conquering Candida by Sandra Yeyati

ean Mitchell, M.D., is a board-certified immunologist and a pioneer in holistic immunology. As a founder of the Mitchell Medical Group with his wife, Dr. Ricki Mitchell, in New York City, he specializes in diagnosing and treating candida

overgrowth, mast cell activation syndrome and toxic mold exposure. With more than 30 years of practical experience, he combines conventional and integrative care to address the root causes of disease and educate patients on sustainable wellness solutions.

Mitchell, an adjunct assistant professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, is also a published author of several books and host of a popular podcast, The Smartest Doctor in the Room, where he interviews renowned medical specialists. His latest book is Conquering Candida: The New 30-Day Protocol for Restoring Your Microbiome and Health, co-authored with his daughter-inlaw, Joelle Mitchell, a registered dietitian. Candida is a type of yeast that can live on the skin and in the body without causing problems, but an overgrowth can lead to an infection called candidiasis, also known as a yeast infection, which can range from mild to severe and affect various parts of the body.

What is a candida overgrowth?

A healthy microbiome is diverse, with all kinds of different bacteria, viruses and yeast, whereas an unhealthy microbiome is distorted because the good bacteria have been wiped out, leaving candida, a highly resistant organism, as the dominant species. A candida overgrowth occurs when candida yeast microorganisms predominate, affecting the microbiome and resulting in a range of unpleasant symptoms.

Courtesy Dean Mitchell

What are the most prevalent symptoms of a candida overgrowth?

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After treating thousands of patients, I have categorized symptoms into four distinct levels. The initial stage manifests as gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation or diarrhea. The next stage involves leaky gut syndrome, where the yeast moves out of the intestine. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in women who develop chronic vaginal yeast infections. The third stage of candida overgrowth occurs when the candida penetrates deeper into the body, leading to symptoms like brain fog. This occurs because excessive yeast production generates acetaldehyde, a substance that can cause cognitive impairment. The fourth stage is when the candida becomes deeply ingrained, resulting in chronic fatigue,

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Courtesy Dean Mitchell

which benefit your microbiome. Apples and berries are good, but avoid very sweet fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe or pineapple. Include a variety of vegetables, especially cruciferous ones and greens, but avoid corn (too sugary) and mushrooms (too yeasty). Skip potatoes and rice, which spike your sugar. Quinoa is a better alternative. Ensure you have quality protein sources like chicken, fish, turkey and meats. Drink water and teas, but avoid soda or diet soda. Gradually, we reintroduce certain foods.

fibromyalgia and widespread muscle pain.

What causes an overgrowth of candida?

Long-term use of antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors or acid blockers, birth control pills and even steroids—including the ones you inhale or take orally—can disrupt the natural balance of the gut microbiome, leading to candida overgrowth. The other big culprit is excessive glucose intake.

What about the next prong of your treatment—the antifungal medications?

There is a big misunderstanding about the dangers of antifungals, even among some doctors. From my experience, they tend to be very safe medications. Several FDA-approved options work very well. Patients typically require a minimum of three to four weeks of treatment, with some needing more, potentially extending to several months, to eradicate candida when it has deeply infiltrated the tissue.

What type of supplementation do you recommend?

I have patients come in, especially when I’m prescribing the antifungals, for intravenous

Disruptions in the endocrine system can also lead to candida problems. That includes people with diabetes, metabolic syndrome or polycystic ovarian syndrome who tend to have high insulin and high blood sugar levels. And when you’re under a lot of stress, your cortisol levels go up as a defense reaction, which can also increase blood sugar levels and precipitate a candida imbalance.

In your 30-day candida protocol, what dietary changes do you recommend?

Initially, avoid processed sugar, dairy (including cheese and yogurt), grains (especially wheat-based), fermented foods and alcohol. You can consume fiber-rich foods, Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

vitamin therapy known as the Myers’ cocktail, comprised of B-complex vitamins, magnesium, vitamins C and D3, plus the antioxidant glutathione. People who are having medical issues like candida need extra support. Intravenous vitamins also mitigate the Herxheimer reaction, a flu-like response that occurs when candida begins to die off and releases toxins, triggering an immune response.

Could you explain the sublingual immunotherapy drops included in your protocol?

Following my treatment with strong antifungals, the idea is to administer a little bit of candida in the form of sublingual drops to stimulate the body’s own immunity and build up a tolerance. This approach aims to empower the body to effectively manage candida without the reliance on future antifungal interventions. Essentially, it involves stimulating protective antibodies to keep the candida in check. Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings. To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL. com/MitchellWW or scan the QR code.

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In Their Own Words

What Adults Need to Know About

How to Help Us Teens by Abdullah, Zain, Emaad and Qasim Ansari

eel after reel. Short after short. Post after post. Hours upon hours in social isolation in a dark room. Losing our sense of purpose. Losing our sense of self and self-worth. No longer mindful. No longer grateful.

to eye. Ask us about our day like you really care. Listen to learn, not listen to respond. Spend time in nature with us, practice gratitude, meditate and deep breathe with us, help us read labels on everything. Be kind to one another. Show us that you prioritize your health and your company so we can prioritize our health and our company.

Photo credit The Holistic Kids

We have normalized using toxic chemicals on our skin, hair and bodies and eating foods with ingredients that destroy our bodies from the inside out, stuffing whatever our hearts desire into our mouths, overconsuming processed artificial foods, staying up late at night and doomscrolling mindlessly, making us numb to reality.

Our Sad Reality Currently, more than half of U.S. teens are spending an average of seven hours and 22 minutes of daily screen time, equivalent to a 40-hour workweek. According to the Mayo Clinic, using social media more than three times a day can predict poor mental health for teens. We do have the power to change our current reality. This is where we need you.

Parents and Other Adults Can Help Change Our Current Reality There is so much we can do every day to take back control of the health of our mind, body and soul. We need to stop this cycle; we need a teen health revolution.

Commitment to Health The hardest part of becoming healthier is that you have to create a commitment to it. Many people are only healthy at home, where it’s more boring and stricter. When they go out to parties or on vacations, they 44

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Abdullah, Zain, Emaad and Qasim Ansari— known as The Holistic Kids

have some of the worst diets. What they’re doing is associating junk food with fun food. Are all the artificial colors, ingredients, seed oils and GMOs okay to eat when we are having fun? Why would any teen want to eat real food when it is just boring?

Show Us that Real Food is Fun Food Provide us with real food options at celebrations, holidays and when we are traveling. Stock our pantries with real food. Take us grocery shopping, help us build our own gardens, take us to farmers markets, ask us to cook with you.

At the end of the day, you gave us that smartphone, you are buying all those artificial foods for us, you are stocking our fridge and pantry, you are buying our polyester clothes … and then you complain when we are addicted to junk food, screen dopamine hits, and our brains and bodies don’t work the way they should. But it is not too late; the time to start is now.

The Time to Start Is Now We go to school for years on end, for what? To get a great education, a great job, a great house, a great life, but what happens to those dreams if we get sick? Without health, nothing else matters. We teens want freedom, but today we are running into the hands of corporations that don’t have our health in mind and are only worried about creating a generation of consumers. We are those consumers, blindingly following without thinking about where we are headed, and they have succeeded.

Why are we just sitting around and We know you are busy, but please put down allowing others to control our bodyour phone at dinnertime and have conver- ies, minds, souls and choices? Role-Model Health Habits for Us

sations with us. Talk to us; look at us eye

It is time to wake up and look up from our

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phones. We are the future leaders, engineers, politicians, doctors, musicians, teachers, influencers, cooks, mothers and fathers. This is what our mom did for us. Now we are taking it to the world. It is harder for us to do this without you. We were that drop in the ocean, just four kids, but now we are creating that ripple effect in our home, in our communities and our world. Abdullah, Zain, Emaad and Qasim Ansari—known as The Holistic Kids—are the hosts of The Holistic Kids’ Show Podcast, ranked in the top 2 percent of podcasts worldwide with more than 200 episodes. They are national speakers and co-authors of the bestselling book The Teen Health Revolution: Lifestyle Secrets to Optimize Your Mind, Body, and Soul.

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January 2026

Calendar of Events Veganuary Dry January

January 2026

SAVE THE DATE ONLINE: In Our Own Hands Women’s Wellness Series Jan-Apr Program offers a holistic approach to women’s health, featuring 3-hr workshops led by experienced herbalists, healers and teachers. Zoom. MidwestWomensHerbal.com/ inourownhands

Thursday, January 1 New Year’s Day Last day of Kwanzaa

Friday, January 2 First Friday Hike – 4-5:15pm. Get your heart pumping and enjoy the beauty of the forest on a brisk winter day. Join a naturalist on a guided hike. Hammel Woods, Crumby Recreation Area, Rte 59 Access, Shorewood. Register: 815-727-8700 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Women’s Empowerment Circle – 2-3:30pm. With Emma. Deepen your intuition, self-trust and sense of empowerment in a supportive circle of like-hearted women. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Monday, January 5 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Friday, January 9

Tuesday, January 6

Winter Reset Candle Making – Craft an intention candle designed to clear the old and ignite your new cycle. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Trail Club: January at Whalon Lake – 1011am. Each month we will meet at a different preserve for a brisk weekly walk to promote fitness and community. Join other walkers to beat the winter blues and embrace the beauty of the season. Free. Whalon Lake, Royce Rd, Naperville. 815727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org. Business & Marketing Collaboration Group – 7pm. Join a supportive, newly forming community of small business owners committed to actively helping each other with strategic marketing and tangible business building. We believe in the power of genuine collaboration, where your dedicated involvement creates real, sustainable growth for yourself and your peers. Free. For more info & to RSVP: CareDogSolutions@gmail.com. CareDogSolutions.com.

Full Moon: Wolf Walk – 7-8:30pm. The Jan full moon is known as the wolf moon. Join an interpretive naturalist for a night hike and learn all about the interesting animals that used to call Illinois home. Free. O’Hara Woods Preserve, 1034 W 135th St, Romeoville. 815-722-9301. ReconnectWithNature.org.

SoulSync: Guided Hypnosis & Reiki for Deep Renewal – 7-8pm. Reclaiming Your Inner Foundation. A transformative group healing session designed to help you reclaim your inner foundation from the inside out. $55. The Agape House, 416 E Roosevelt Rd, Ste 107, Wheaton. 630-294-5225. TheAgapeHouseHealing.com.

Saturday, January 3

Wednesday, January 7

Fun Moon - Wolf Moon, Freeze Up Moon Breakfast with the Birds – 9-10:30am. View the resident birds and winter visitors indoors from the cozy inside of the facility. Enjoy provided warm beverages and muffins. A naturalist will give a brief talk about the visitors at the feeders and will be on hand to discuss all the birds that come and go throughout the morning. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by Jan 2: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

Sunday, January 4 Winter Waterfowl Hike – 8:30-9:45am. Join a naturalist and fellow passionate birders on the chilly trails and uncover the special adaptations that allow these waterfowl to make Four Rivers their winter home. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by Jan 2: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org.

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Sound Bath – 7-8pm. Join Frances Murphy, certified sound healer, for a guided sound bath where you will hear and feel the sounds and vibrations of crystal singing bowls, crystal singing pyramid, chimes and other sound instruments. $25. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Christmas (Orthodox) Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main St, Crystal Lake. GreenDrinks.org/IL/ Crystal%20Lake. Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, January 8 A Pathway to Peace: A Shaman’s Journey – 8-wk series. An immersive shamanic journey for those ready to transform, realign and rise. $444. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Saturday, January 10 Meet a Beekeeper – 10am-12pm. Meet local beekeeper Dade Bradley to discuss the art of beekeeping. Ask questions, chat and troubleshoot. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of bees. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. ReconnectWithNature.org. Eagle Watch – 11am-3pm. Join us as we celebrate these exceptional birds of prey with guided hikes, live bird presentations, Talon Talks, family activities and more. Ongoing activities will include family crafts, an Eagle Eye Scavenger Hunt and food from Lil’ Deb’s Mobile Eats. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org. Crystal Talk Workshop – 2-3:30pm. With Janel, crystal consultant and lightworker. Will focus on navigating the energies of 2026. We will welcome the 2026 emerging vibrations of love, peace, joy and Oneness through a meditation. $20. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com. Vision Boards – 3-5pm. With Rose. Design your year with clarity, intention and unstoppable momentum. $66. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Sunday, January 11 Backyard Winter Birds – 8:30-10am. Learn about the birds that spend the winter months in our area and how to attract them to your yard. Take a guided hike in the forest to search for some of these winter jewels and return to the nature center for a warm drink and some indoor bird viewing. Free. Hidden Oaks Preserve, 475 Trout Farm Rd, Bolingbrook. Register by Jan 10: 815-722-4121 or ReconnectWithNature.org. Conservation@Home: Seed Swap – 122pm. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook. Registration required: fpdcc.com/event/conservationhome-seed-swap-3.

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Feed Your Soul Gestalt Group – 2-4:30pm. 2nd Sun thru Nov 8. Share joys and disappointments in a safe environment without judgment. As the horses support you through the process, participants experience the life changing, deep healing of Gestalt therapy. $55. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com.

Monday, January 12 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Tuesday, January 13 Trail Club: January at Whalon Lake – 10-11am. See Jan 6 listing. Whalon Lake, Royce Rd, Naperville. 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org. Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Tuesdays, Jan 13-Mar 17. 10am-1pm. Learn how to give a basic 1-hr shiatsu treatment that you can share with friends and family. Course is a stand-alone offering and is also the first 30 hrs of our complete shiatsu certification programs. $500 plus textbook. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

SAVE THE DATE Happy Healthy Metabolic Live Masterclass 6pm. Discover the hidden key to unlocking your metabolism and burning fat effortlessly without extreme diets or endless workouts. Free. Health Clarified 2165 A Shermer Rd, Northbrook 224-344-8668 Register: H2thinvirtual.com/drkim Green Drinks Libertyville – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues every other month. Landscaping for a Changing Climate with Eileen Davis. Pizzeria DeVille, 404 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville. Facebook.com/greendrinkslibertyville. Conscious Pet Business & Marketing Collaboration – 7pm. We are launching a supportive, newly forming community of pet-related business owners committed to actively helping each other with strategic marketing and tangible business building. Free. For more info & to RSVP: CareDogSolutions@gmail.com. CareDogSolutions.com.

Wednesday, January 14 Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See Jan 7 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Wednesdays, Jan 14-Mar 18. 7-10pm. Learn how to give a basic 1-hr shiatsu treatment that you can share with friends and family. Course is a standalone offering and is also the first 30 hrs of our complete shiatsu certification programs. $500 plus textbook. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Thursday, January 15 Feast to Beast – 5:30-7pm. A post-holiday reset for pain relief, body aches and immune support. In this powerful, handson workshop led by sports chiropractor Dr. David Moore and acupuncturist Teri Calandra, experience a unique blend of modern movement science and energy-based healing with live demonstrations. Free. Schaumburg Spine and Sport, 2030 E Algonquin Rd, Ste 412, Schaumburg. 708-325-8474. CalandraAcupuncture.com.

Friday, January 16 Sports Massage: Stretching & PNF – 9am-6pm. This course serves to focus on the pathology, assessment, treatment and self-care of the body and all the major joints and muscles that attach to those joints. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Sonic Fusion Meditation – 6:30-8pm. Through a fusion of crystal singing bowls, gongs, drums and harmonic instruments, Andre and Barb Peraza create a multidimensional soundscape that supports energetic healing and spiritual awakening. $45. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Saturday, January 17 New Year Empowerment: Creating A Vision For 2026 – 1-4pm. In this workshop led by Cheryl K., a review of 2025 will include completing unfinished business, making space for 2026, and allowing a fresh view and clean slate for the new year. Includes guided meditation, tools and techniques, writing exercises, and group sharing. $85. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

The Sacred Pause: Menopause Class – 7-8:30pm. A grounded, empowering reset for women navigating midlife with strength and insight. $55. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Sunday, January 18 New Moon World Religion Day Midwest Cleanse Presents: Rooted in Wellness – 3-5pm. We’ve invited respected local doctors and wellness professionals to join forces for a special Winter Wellness Event. From Colon Hydrotherapy to menopause support, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, and more, come explore new modalities, ask questions and discover how each can support your overall well-being. $10 donation requested. Lincoln-Peterson Medical Professional Building, 5962 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. RSVP required: 773-728-6800. MidwestCleanse.com.

Monday, January 19 Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Unlock Your Intuition: Tarot for Self-Discovery and Spiritual Growth – Mondays, Jan 19-Feb 11. 7-9pm. Certified tarot reader and spiritual teacher Nicole Pearson will lead a live, 4-wk, intensive, online course designed to help participants explore tarot as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. For more info or to register: 708808-6545 or TheHeartOfAGoddess.com.

Tuesday, January 20 Trail Club: January at Whalon Lake – 10-11am. See Jan 6 listing. Whalon Lake, Royce Rd, Naperville. 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Wednesday, January 21 Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See Jan 7 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com. Twilight Community Reiki – 7pm. With Andrea. Here, the ancient art of Reiki merges with the uplifting power of communal healing, allowing us to elevate our energies together. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Nurture the Heart Coming in February

MenLiving: Where Men Find Connection and Support – 6:30pm. 2nd Wed. With Dan Bulf. Provides in-person spaces for men to craft healthier, more fulfilling lives. Free. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. Tinyurl.com/MenLiving2026.

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January 2026

Thursday, January 22 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Friday, January 23

SAVE THE DATE Glisten Winter Wellness Retreat Jan 23-25 Reignite your inner light at this immersive 3-day retreat featuring movement, music, creativity and self-evolving workshops at the newly renovated Lake Lawn Resort. Includes lodging, meals, sound baths, ecstatic dance and an interactive music experience with Georgia Rae. Early bird registrants receive free Thursday night lodging. $1,999. 2400 E Geneva St, Delavan, WI 847-722-9653 MoonBeaman.com 7-Day Self-Inquiry & Meditation Retreat: Melting of the Heart – Jan 23-31. This meditation retreat focuses on emotional intelligence as an essential foundation in approaching meditation. Kawoq Forest Retreat Center, Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. 224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Saturday, January 24 Soup-er Bowl Hike to the Bridge – 11am1pm. Kick off a fun Saturday with a hike, a campfire and a soup-er bowl of your favorite comfort food. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by Jan 22: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org. Awakening the Voice of the Soul: A Journey into Intuition – 2-3:30pm. In this uplifting, experiential class presented by Bobbi Williams, learn how intuition really works and discover your own natural intuitive language. $40. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com. Super Seed Saturday – 2-4pm. 13th annual seed swap. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe. ChicagoBotanic.org. Runes Class – 3-4pm. Discover the ancient symbols that reveal guidance, direction and deeper self-mastery. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Seed Swap – 12-2pm. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St, Oak Park. fopcon.org. Conservation@Home: Winter Seed Sowing – 1:30pm. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook. Registration required: fpdcc.com/event/conservationhome-winter-seed-sowing-2.

Monday, January 26 World Clean Energy Day World Environmental Education Day Qigong Basics & Five Element Qigong – 9am-4pm. Qigong fundamentals explored, explained and discussed. There will also be a Five Elements meditation intertwined in the day. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

Tuesday, January 27 Int’l Holocaust Remembrance Day Trail Club: January at Whalon Lake – 10-11am. See Jan 6 listing. Whalon Lake, Royce Rd, Naperville. 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Wednesday, January 28 DGC Sprouts: New Year Kickoff Celebration – 6-7pm. Will have special entertainment, raffle prizes, and more. Special guest: Dave DiNaso’s Traveling Reptile Show. Darien Garden Club’s Sprouts program delivers our club’s mission to children and families interested in learning about gardening and horticulture. Free. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. DarienGardenClub.com. Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See Jan 7 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Thursday, January 29 See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Friday, January 30 Imbolc Ceremony – 7-9pm. A powerful seasonal rite calling in renewal, inspiration and early-year magic. Sacred Ground, 19 E Miner, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

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National Seed Swap Day Int’l Zebra Day Essentials of Craniosacral Therapy – Jan 31-Feb 1. 9am-4pm. This 2-day course is a practical introduction to the theory and practice of the biodynamics of craniosacral balancing. Learn essential ways to perceive the body’s intrinsic movement dynamics, rhythms and pulsations. 12 CEs. $300. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Seed Swap / Intercambio de Semillas – 10am-12pm. Hosted in partnership with University of Illinois Extension and Illinois Master Gardeners. Aurora Public Library District, Eola Road Branch, 555 S Eola Rd, Aurora. AuroraPublicLibrary.org. National Seed Swap Day – 10am-2pm. Schaumburg Park District. Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S Plum Grove Rd, Schaumburg. ParkFun.com/event/national-seed-swap-day. Seed Swap – 12-1:30, Section A; 1:30-3pm, Section B. The Morton Arboretum, Arbor Rm, Thornhill Education Center, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. Registration required: MortonArb.org. Soul Evolution Healing – 2-5pm. Randa Clark and Richard Popp work as a team to help locate the body’s accumulated struggle to forgive (including yourself) found on many different levels: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. They will assist you on your path towards a healthier outlook through the window of forgiveness. $80. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Plan Ahead Friday, February 20 10-Day Self-Inquiry & Meditation Retreat: Seeing Through the Solidity of Thoughts – Feb 20-Mar 2. This retreat holds a dedicated space for a deep and introspective immersion into life below the surface and into a mind-body significantly more subtle than form. Vajra Vidya Retreat Center, 3203 Camino Baca Grande, Crestone, CO. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Sunday, April 12

Sunday, January 25 Reiki I – 9am-4pm. This is a beginner course to learn Usui Reiki from Reiki Master Teacher Tina Santana of The Agape House, a structured and intuitive energy healing practice. Learn an effective process for engaging in the healing process for yourself (and others) on a mental, emotional, physical and spiritual level. $150. The Agape House, 416 E Roosevelt Rd, Ste 107, Wheaton. 630-294-5225. TheAgapeHouseHealing.com.

Saturday, January 31

SAVE THE DATE A year from now you may wish you had started today. —Karen Lamb

Sol y Luna Immersion: A Costa Rica Retreat Apr 12-19 Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave Park Ridge 847-696-7560 AshWillowSalon.com/thenest

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SEED SWAP SAVE THE DATES Saturday, February 7 Annual Seed Exchange 10am-2pm Inclement weather date: Feb 14. White Oak Library, Lockport Branch 121 E 8th St, Lockport. WillCountyCare.org/care-seed-exchange The Great Seed (and Soil!) Event 10am-2pm McHenry County’s 3rd annual all-thingsseeds event: vegetables, natives, flowers and herbs. Vendors, demos, speakers and a seed swap. Free admission. MCC Cafeteria, McHenry County College 8900 U.S. 14, Crystal Lake 815-479-7563 Tinyurl.com/GreatSeed2026

Saturday, February 14 Seed Swap 11am-12:30pm Park District of Franklin Park. Community Center, 9560 Franklin Ave, Franklin Park FPParks.org/event/seed-swap-2

Saturday, February 21 Seed Swap with Sustain DuPage 1-3pm Wheaton Public Library, Meeting Room A, 225 N Cross St, Wheaton WheatonLibrary.org

Saturday, February 28 Conservation@Home: Seed Swap & Plant Exchange 10am-12pm Swallow Cliff Woods – North Pavilion, Calumet Sag Rd/Rte 83 (Near Palos Park) FPDCC.com/event/conservationhomeseed-swap-plant-exchange

Saturday, March 7 Extension Master Gardener Seed Expo at CLC 10am-2pm Hosted by Lake County Master Gardeners, Grow Lake County. College of Lake County 19351 W Washington St, Grayslake Facebook.com/events/153430216779839

Sunday, March 8 DGC/IPPL Seed & Houseplant Exchange 1:30-3:30pm Indian Prairie Public Library, Keshav Sanghani Meeting Room, 2nd Fl, 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien DarienGardenClub.com

Ongoing Events

Daily 1:1 Private Yoga Tune Up Instruction – Roll Model Method, Mental Performance and Functional Movement Screening. Virtual or In-Person (Wheaton or Chicago). JulieMackey.com. Wild Onion Market Co-op – 8am-8:30pm. Offering fresh, local and sustainably sourced food 7 days a week. Wild Onion Market, 7007 N Clark St, Chicago. WildOnionMarket.com. Healing Music Sessions – 1-6pm, Sat/Sun; 9am-6pm, Mon-Thurs. Life Rhythms helps those in assisted living homes, memory loss facilities and private residences participate in making and sharing music on an individual and group level 7 days a week. The 1-hr sessions, inclusive of all instruments, improve hand-eye coordination, stimulate cognitive abilities and promote wellness. LifeRhythmsInc.com. Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum – Thru Jan 3. 4:30-9:30pm. Explore 50 acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees during this one-of-a-kind spectacle of color, light and sound. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Tickets: MortonArb.org. Naturally Purifying and Supercharging Your Body Podcast – 7-7:45pm. Matthew Hazen is the owner of Human Consciousness Support, a company that produces a unique nutraceutical product called MasterPeace. Free. BuzzSprout.com/1206776/14236700.

Sunday Chicago Meditation Center of Self-Realization Fellowship Services – 9am, Energization Exercises; Kirtan held the 4th Sun, 9-10:40am; 9:30-10:40am, Yoga Meditation; 11am-12pm, Reading Service. 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest. 708-366-0140. ChicagoMeditationCenter.org. Revive and Restore – 10am. With Dan Bulf. Burn Boot Camp Evanston, 9412 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. Tinyurl.com/y9avumwf. Kundalini Yoga & Meditation – 10-11:30am. Join us for weekly Kundalini Yoga classes to work your body, relieve your mind and uplift your spirit. Schedule: Mon & Wed, 9:30am; Sat: 6pm; Sun: 10am & 4:30pm. All levels. $21. Inspire Yoga & Wellness Center, 1100 Nerge Rd, Ste 208, Elk Grove Village. 312-593-4366. InspireYogaWellness.com. Rocio Sagrado at the Farmers Market+ at the Dole – Thru Apr 27. 10am-2pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Farmers Market+ at the Dole Mansion, 400 Country Club Rd, Crystal. FarmersMarketAtTheDole.org.

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Free Aura Reading – 10:30-11:45am. Also Sat, 11:15am-12:15pm. Learn more about your chakra energy system and manifest your dreams. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642. BodyNBrain.com/northbrook. Musical Brunch – 11am-2pm. Also Sat. Featuring local talents. Madame Zuzu’s, 1876 1st St, Highland Park. Details: LifeRhythmsInc.com. 5Rthyms Ecstatic Dance – 1-2:30pm. With Clay Henley. A dynamic practice to both workout and meditate in the same breath. Class pass or $30/drop-in. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com. Hot Power – 3pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd. Live Music at The Fat Shallot – 3-6pm. $10 suggested donation. The Fat Shallot, 2902 Central St, Evanston. LifeRhythmsInc.com. C1 Foundations – 4:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd.

Monday Community Yoga – 7pm. With Mary Lou. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest. Open Level Yoga – 7:30-9pm. With Agnieszka Poniedzialki. In Polish and English. $20. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. NSHealing.com. ONLINE: Ascension Tribe Weekly Monday Night Energy Tune-Up – 8pm. Zoom. Register for free: TryAscensionTribe.com.

Tuesday Rocio Sagrado at the Woodstock Farmers Market – 8am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherpeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Woodstock Farmers Market, 112 S Benton St, Woodstock. WoodstockFarmersMarket.org. Cultivating Guts Podcast: New Episode Release – 9am. Tiffany Hinton’s podcast where we discuss gardening, homesteading, gut health, following our intuition, herbalism and functional medicine to create a life of joy and beauty. Listen on Spotify, YouTube and iTunes. Free. Tinyurl.com/CultivatingG.

January 2026

Tummy Whisperer Podcast – 1:30pm. With Renee Barasch. Listeners can hear her speak live on Apple, Spotify and Facebook, or listen to the podcast at any time. Episode 1, “The Importance of Gut Health: Exploring the World of Digestive Wellness,” is available for 24/7 streaming. For more info: 847-207-2034 or DigestiveHealthSolutions.com. Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes – 5pm. Also Thurs. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery.

Wednesday Farm on Ogden Market – 11am-5pm. WedSat. Indoor year-round market. 3555 W Ogden Ave, Chicago. ChicagoBotanic.org/ UrbanAgriculture/farm_on_ogden. Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. Yoga for men, all levels welcome. Explore increased flexibility and movement, reduced stress, improved breathing, find your calm and your center. Mats provided. $20. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com.

Double Gong – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues. Experience deep relaxation with sound healing. Yogi Tea served in our beautiful The Breathing Space studio. $30. Heaven Meets Earth Yoga Studio, 2746 Central St, Evanston. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com.

Open Level Yoga – 7-8:15pm. Also Sat, 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. NSHealing.com.

Dinner With the Doctors: Health Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. 2nd & 4th Tues. New to our practice and wanting to see if we are the right fit? Returning patient wanting to understand more deeply what you’ve been experiencing? Enjoy demonstrations and time for Q+A with the docs to learn and experience how they work. Free dinner provided; RSVP required in order for food to be prepared. Free. Be Optimal Holistic Health Center, 5225 Old Orchard Rd, Ste 31, Skokie. 847-486-8000. BeOptimal.com.

Thursday

Group Silent Meditation – 6:30-7:30pm & 7:35-8:35pm. Silent group meditation in a quiet, secular space that welcomes all walks of life. The center is our labor of love and your presence is deeply appreciated as we share an hour of silence together. Optional donation. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling. 224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Shiatsu Student Clinic – 9:30 & 10am. At our popular Advanced Student Clinic, clients can receive a 45-min session from an advanced Zen Shiatsu student. Sessions are performed in a group setting with instructor observation. Availability limited; call for appointments. Sessions must be paid in advance. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsu.edu.

Community Meditation – 7-8pm. Doors close at 7:05pm. Different topics each week. Facilitator changes weekly. Walk-ins welcome. Love donation. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com. Monthly Women’s Circle – 7:30-9pm. 1st Tues. A monthly gathering to celebrate the Sacred Feminine, to unite in sisterhood and community. We create a safe circle of compassion, healing and joy. Where we open our hearts to life and one another, share anything that needs to be shared, provide generous listening to our sisters, meditate, sing, dance, and create community and friendships. Free; graciously accepting donations. RSVP preferred but not required. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-430-3115. NSHealing.com.

What Do You Like to Eat? – 8am-5pm. Persons who live in Chicagoland, ages 20 - 79 years who can be counted as members of 13 cultural communities, are asked to meet with a researcher for both a 1-to1 interview and a survey on what they like to eat. The researcher will meet you in your community. Total time will not exceed one hour. Free. For details, Carey: PayneWellnessCenter.abmp.com.

Mobility and Mental Performance for Athletes – 5pm. With Julie Mackey. Major Sports Performance, 929 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. Register: MajorSportsIL.com/recovery. Hot Power – 5:30pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd. Community Healing Circle – 6pm. All welcome. Opens with a heart resonance meditation followed by reading each intention aloud while others practice focused silence. Closes with a restorative exercise to release, regenerate and renew. Free. Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 224-735-2355. PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com.

If a window of opportunity appears, don’t pull down the shade.

Guided Self-Inquiry – 6-7:30pm. Through guided prompts and open discussions, each session invites participants to pause, reflect on their inner landscape and ask meaningful questions that enhance emotional intelligence and the understanding of meditation. Suggested donation: $20$30. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling. 224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com. CoreRestore – 7pm. With Dan Bulf. CorePower Yoga Winnetka, 850 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka. Tinyurl.com/zrx62jbd. Group Silent Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Silent group meditation in a quiet, secular space that welcomes all walks of life. The center is our labor of love and your presence is deeply appreciated as we share an hour of silence together. Optional donation. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling. 224-3000499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com.

Friday AstroAshtanga – 8-9:15am. Do you love strength, stretching and astrology? Try this strong physical and energetic practice. $25. Kaizen House, 1321 Emerson St, Evanston. KaizenHouse.org. Reiki Sessions – 11am-2pm. With Rose. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest. Egyptian Energy Forms: A Qigong Practice – Jan 23-Feb 27. 7-8pm. With Lino Brescia. Egyptian Energy Forms are very powerful. Each form and movement creates a specific structure of energy that facilitates physiological and spiritual improvements. $25/drop-in. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Saturday All-Level Vinyasa – 8am. With Dan Bulf. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com. Green City Market: Avondale – 8am-1pm. Jan 10-Mar 21. 3031 N Rockwell St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org. Open-Level Yoga – 9-10:15am. With Gosia. In Polish and English. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. NSHealing.com. Palatine Winter Farmers Market – Thru Apr. 9am-12pm. 1st & 3rd Sat. 137 W Wood St, Palatine. Facebook.com/palatinefarmersmarket. Free Aura Reading – 11:15am-12:15pm. See Sun listing. Body & Brain, 1947 Cherry Ln, Northbrook. RSVP: 847-562-9642. BodyNBrain.com/northbrook.

—Tom Peters

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Community Resource Guide

Classifieds Classifieds can help you sell goods and services and even attract employees for your business. YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Peggy@NAChicago.com to request our media kit.

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine CALANDRA CENTER FOR

Akashic Consultation HEALTH & WELLNESS AKASHIC RECORD READING – Open the record of your soul’s journey to find information to support you in your life right now, heal your past and help you into your future. Heal. Grow. Investigate. Find direction. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034. AstrologicalDetails.com.

Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT 830 E. Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg 312-796-3965 Facebook @CalandraAcuChi CalandraAcupuncture.com

For Hire

We believe that when someone has the tools to help themselves that the possibilities are endless. Offering acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal medicine, NAET allergy elimination, reiki, Access Consciousness, and a variety of wellness educational classes. Teri specializes in gynecological disorders, infertility, menopausal syndrome, musculoskeletal dysfunctions, allergies, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, thyroid disorders.

HIRING MASSAGE THERAPIST OR ROOM FOR RENT – Northbrook holistic chiropractic office seeks compassionate professional eager to learn new modalities. Flexible options. More info: Office@ HealthClarifiedNow.com.

For Rent/ Space Available ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT ROOM – Inviting licensed acupuncturists! Treatment room available for part-time or full-time use. Perfect for growing your practice. More info: Office@HealthClarifiedNow. com.

Help Wanted YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

Services YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

NIRVANA ACUPUNCTURE AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE Lana Moshkovich, LAc, ND, MSOM 707 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 125, Deerfield 60015 847-715-9044 NirvanaNaturopathics.com We specialize in resolving chronic pain including Fibromyalgia and Peripheral Neuropathy; severe chronic allergies for adults and children; fertility; autoimmune conditions; anxiety/depression; cosmetic acupuncture (anti-aging). To learn more about our clinic you can follow us on our YouTube channel: Dr.Lana@Nirvana AIM and Instagram: @nirvanaacu. Major insurance carriers accepted. Call 847-715-9044 to schedule your consultation so we can help you feel your best! See ad on page 27.

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Animal Communication ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR CAROL SCHULTZ 815-531-2850 Carol@CarolSchultz.com CarolSchultz.com Animal communications and intuitive healing for over 25 yrs. Carol provides compassionate and insightful consultations along with creator-based energy balancing for all animal species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, health, harmony, end-of-life, grief support and connections with animals in spirit. Professional phone sessions, barn visits and special events. Optional MP3 recordings. Gift certificates. Lectures, Basic/ Advanced workshops.

Bodywork HEALTH CLARIFIED Dr. Kimberly Henderson, DC 2165A Shermer Rd, Northbrook 60062 224-344-8668 HealthClarified.com We take wellness to a deep level by combining alternative medicine modalities aimed at removing the obstacles that get in the way of your body's ability to heal. Therapies include red light, SoftWave and BrainTap; plus comprehensive bodywork and exercises, functional medicine, HBOT, Lymphatic Enhancement, EWOT, PEMF, footbaths, holistic skincare treatments and Synchronicity Wave System. See ads on pages 9, 17, 27 and 45.

ZEN SHIATSU CHICAGO 825 Chicago Ave, Evanston 60202 847-864-1130 ZenShiatsuChicago.edu You’ll feel the stress melt away like the snow in spring through our relaxation-focused shiatsu massage practice, which offers the same energizing benefits as acupuncture combined with the restorative power of yoga poses. Dress in cozy threads, shiatsu is performed on fully clothed clients. Professional and student therapists available. See ad on back cover.

January 2026

Coaching & Counseling BELIEF REDESIGN Rebecca J. Robbins, PhD Info@BeliefRedesign.com BeliefRedesign.com Rebecca J. Robbins, PhD, helps clients move beyond anxiety, stress and emotional reactivity by working with how the mind actually changes. Her approach supports deep, lasting shifts rather than surface fixes, helping people feel more grounded, resilient and at ease in daily life.

Colon Hydrotherapy MIDWEST CLEANSE 5962 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago 60659 773-728-6800 MidwestCleanse.com Colon Hydrotherapy is a safe and comfortable method of gently cleansing the colon. Our highly trained, certified therapists are focused exclusively on your care throughout your session. As Chicagoland’s leader in Colon Hydrotherapy, we provide professional service, personalized support, and the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation. We are open daily to best serve our community. Se habla español. See ad on page 35.

Community & Practitioner Communities AWAKE: ONENESS TRIBE Suburban Chicagoland AwakeOnenessTribe.org A nonprofit hub where seekers in the local community can come together, be heard, be seen, and be valued. AWAKE is a place where people can communicate freely, without fear of judgment, and participate in events to improve all aspects of health: physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual. AWAKE acknowledges the value of being part of an open-minded community of people who are eager to learn and grow together.

CRUNCHY CULTURE Jane Ulitskaya Jane@CrunchyCulture.com CrunchyCulture.com @CrunchyCultureCHI Created by a Chicagoland mom, Crunchy Culture is a local community built around natural living and holistic wellness. Guided by a mission to help folks make meaningful connections, Crunchy Culture hosts in-person events throughout the Chicago area and has a network of local businesses and partners that align with the group’s interests.

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Digestive Health Specialist

JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST Joann Lysiak Gems 847-596-0274 Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com JoannLysiakGems.com

RENEÉ S. BARASCH, LDHS Telehealth and In-Office 847-207-2034 DigestiveHealthSolutions.com Digestive problems? Acid Reflux/GERD, IBS, Crohn’s, colitis? Let us help you naturally achieve nutritional balance, feel better and enhance the quality of your life. Improve digestion while reducing discomfort and bloating so you can eat the foods you love again. Certified digestive health specialist/ enzyme therapist. See ads on pages 7 and 33.

Education CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN School of Pharmacy CUW.edu/NPS Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference! Discover your future in Natural Product Sciences with our flexible graduate programs. Choose from a 30-credit online master’s degree or a 12-credit graduate certificate, both designed to fit your life and goals. Specialize in medical cannabis or nutraceuticals, and prepare for exciting roles in healthcare, pharmacy, research and development, manufacturing, business and beyond. See ad on page 43.

Energy, Reiki & Sound Healing HARMONIC EGG-NAPERVILLE 1801 N Mill St, Ste L, Naperville 60563 630-780-0193 HarmonicEgg-Naperville.com Visit our center to experience the patented Harmonic Egg—a relaxing, non-invasive therapy using light and sound to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and calm your nervous system. Clients report better sleep, less stress and improved healing. Also available: state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber. Use promo code NATURALAWAKENINGS20 to save 20% off services for Harmonic Egg. See ad on page 19.

Visit the online store for high vibration gemstones and handcrafted jewelry with intention. Benefit from the gemstone energy properties to attract love, abun-dance or protect your energy from EMFs. Let me intuitively find the perfect gemstones for your needs or fine tune your energy to thrive.

Functional Medicine DR. ALLA ARUTCHEVA, MD, PHD, ND Antalee Wellness 1352 Patriot Blvd, Glenview 60026 847-486-1130 • AntaleeHolistic.com If you are seeking integrative and natural approach to your whole-body health, Dr. Arutcheva will use her extensive knowledge, training and experience to work with you to create a personalized plan to prevent and overcome illness based on her strategy of health screening tests, state-of-the-art technology and the best natural supplements. These methods accelerate your ways to optimum health and prevent the development of serious chronic diseases.

Garden and Native Plant Resources POSSIBILITY PLACE NURSERY 7548 W Monee-Manhattan Rd, Monee 60449 708-534-3988 PossibilityPlace.com Environmentally focused. Ecologically minded. Possibility Place Nursery has been Chicagoland’s native plant purveyor since 1983. We specialize in growing native plants from locally sourced ecotypes to increase biodiversity and improve ecological function of vast wild areas to small urban backyards, alike. We look forward to building habitat with you.

If you don’t program yourself, life will program you. —Les Brown

Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Healthy Home Inspection & Construction HOLISTIC DWELLINGS, LLC Making Your Home a Sanctuary For Healing John Lack: Certified Building Biologist, Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist, Environmental Consultant HolisticDwellingsLLC.com Your home’s environment has a dramatic effect on your health. Electro-magnetic radiation, mold, geopathic stress, ion balance, VOCs, all affect the human body at the cellular level. Nature is the gold standard in which a healthy human-built indoor environment must be measured. Holistic Dwellings; EMF Assessment & Mitigation/New Build Consultant.

Holistic & Airway Dentistry THE CENTER FOR DENTAL HEALING Dr. Alla Aver, DDS & Dr. Irina Ganzman, DMD 2400 Ravine Way, Ste 400, Glenview 60025 847-998-5100 GlenviewSmiles.com Our office uses whole-body, preventive dental care. We utilize non-fluoridated ozonated water, herbal periodontal treatments, and gluten-free herbal paste. We offer: safe amalgam removal; BPA-free fillings and sealants; non-metal crowns; sleep apnea and TMJ appliances; ozone therapy; microscopic plaque analysis; material reactivity testing kits; and non-acrylic night guards and partials.

ESSENTIALLY PURE DENTAL Dr. Andie Pearson 1535 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 108, Northbrook 847-977-1655; text: 773-456-8632 EssentiallyPureDental.com Holistic dentistry involves an awareness of care that relates to the entire person. Essentially Pure is a full-service practice using the most biocompatible dental options. Our services range from nonsurgical gum care to mercury-and-PBA-free restorations, crowns, bridges, partial and full dentures, children’s dentistry, braces, implants, dental homeopathy, and CranioSacral Therapy. See ad on page 27.

INTEGRATIVE DENTAL HEALTH 87 S McLean Blvd, South Elgin 60177 847-888-9109 | IDH4U.com Offering the highest quality holistic dental care possible for total body health. From biocompatible materials, to eliminating disease in the mouth and improving sleep quality, you can expect more than just a dental office. As Safe Cutting-Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (S.M.A.R.T.) certified providers, we use the strictest protocols to protect you from the neurotoxic effects of mercury fillings.

K. BOEHM, DDS, & ASSOCIATES 1585 N Barrington Rd, Ste 106, Hoffman Estates 60069 847-884-1220 1440 Maple Ave, Ste 2A, Lisle 60532 630-810-1280 | KBoehmDDS.com Offering state-of-the-art holistic dental care in a relaxed environment, Dr. Boehm and his staff are ready to meet all your dental needs in either of his two locations. Bio-compatible materials and an extensive knowledge of the correlation between oral and overall health are his specialties. Services include safe mercury removal, electrodermal screening for materials compatibility and tooth viability, crowns, bridges, dentures, zirconia implants, homeopathy, cranial osteopathy, orthodontics, ozone therapy, CT/3D imaging, and laser treatment for both gum disease and decay.

SIMONA BAREKET, DDS HP SMILES DENTAL 489 Laurel Ave, Highland Park 60035 847-432-6501 HPSmilesDental.com We are a holistic dental team focused on whole-person wellness rather than just your teeth. Dr. Simona works with empathy, care and a gentle touch. Services include cleanings and comprehensive exams, material biocompatibility testing, safe amalgam removal, ozone therapy, BPA-free restorations and non-metal crowns and implants.

WRIGLEYVILLE DENTAL 3256 N Ashland, Chicago 60657 773-975-6666 • WrigleyvilleDental.com Chicago’s premier biological holistic dentists. Offering the latest technology, we provide ozone, lasers, same-daycrowns and BPA/fluoride-free nontoxic products. Several dentists on staff with unique specialties provide safe amalgam removal, PRF facials, orthodontics, TMJ, sleep/airway, children’s dentistry and countless other treatments. One home for all your dental needs. Free garage parking.

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Integrative Psychotherapy CORLISS IVY, LCPC, CMHIMP Coeur Mental Wellness, LLC 224-707-0146 Coeur@CorlissIvyLCPC.com CorlissIvyLCPC.com Rediscover the person beneath the noise. Working with you, I integrate depth psychotherapy and evidenced-based wellness practices to help you build a better relationship with yourself, liberate yourself from unconscious limitations and create a more meaningful life. Together, we get curious about what it looks like to engage life with authenticity and clarity.

ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT Clinical Director, Inner Balance Chicago, Palm Springs 847-224-0244 EllenKatz.net Ellen’s 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist integrates a conscious approach to healing old patterns through a mix of trauma and mindfulness-based psychotherapies, HMR, Lifeline, The Work (Byron Katie), energy medicine and somatic awareness. Join Meetup.com “Inner Balance Meditation” for updates on her events, and visit her at EllenKatz.net.

Integrative Wellness Center COPPER WELLNESS 1654 W North Ave, Chicago 60622 872-267-1717 Hello@CopperWells.com CopperWells.com Copper Wellness is an integrative clinic in Wicker Park/Bucktown neighborhoods offering acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy and more. Our collaborative team provides professional holistic care with a warm, neighborhood vibe—helping patients feel supported while enjoying the journey of healing.

click on nachicago.com January 2026

Intuitive Coaching OUTRAGEOUS LIBERATION Danya Levinsohn 224-255-5369 Danya@OutrageousLiberation.com OutrageousLiberation.com Are you ready for transformation? The energy shifts are rapidly advancing. Let me assist you in discovering your true authentic self. I provide Intuitive Empowerment Coaching sessions for individuals wanting change and growth or experiencing challenges as a spiritual being having a human experience. Are you ready to live your best life right now? Also offering home/business smudging and energy cleansing services.

Intuitive Consultation HEATHER FAUN BASL Intuitive, Medium & Healer 312-502-1539 Heather@HeatherFaunBasl.com HeatherFaunBasl.com Heather offers phone and text readings, mediumship and remote energy healing to help you find clarity, peace and direction. She bridges the spiritual and physical realms, offering connection, insight, support, healing and guidance tailored to your soul’s unique journey. 22 years of experience.

Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth THE EDGAR CAYCE HOLISTIC CENTER AND BOOKSTORE At Unity Northwest Church 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines 60016 847-299-6535 AREChicagoCenter@gmail.com Full-service bookstore, Cayce remedies, spiritual growth study groups, monthly programs, workshops and holistic fairs, intuitive skills development training, knowledgeable seekers, intuitives, healers and more. Call for hours. See ad on page 12.

Meditation & Spiritual Centers CHICAGO MEDITATION CENTER OF SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest 60305 ChicagoMeditationCenter.org/ srflessons.org Experience the power of spiritual community. All are welcome to join weekly inspirational services with yoga meditation each Sunday. Paramahansa Yogananda (18931952) founded Self-Realization Fellowship in 1920 to make available the universal teachings of Kriya Yoga, a sacred spiritual science originating millennia ago in India. See ad on page 39.

Medium, Psychic & Chakra PSYCHIC MEDIUM NICOLE The Heart Of A Goddess Available for Virtual Sessions TheHeartOfAGoddess.com Nicole Pearson, Founder of The Heart Of A Goddess, is a certified Holy Fire® Reiki Master, Psychic Medium, Tarot Reader and Sound Healer—here to help other souls awaken, heal, and align with their soul's purpose. If you’re seeking guidance, healing or spiritual transformation—I invite you to book a session with me at TheHeartOfAGoddess.com.

PSYCHIC READINGS GLENVIEW 2834 Golf Rd, Glenview 60025 847-470-0049 PsychicsReadingsGlenview.com Discover the transformative power of psychic healing. In one session, Psychic Sarah can unlock your dormant healing energy and guide you towards a path of true rejuvenation and self-discovery. 30+ years’ experience in psychic, tarot and astrology readings, chakra balancing and spiritual counsel. New clients save 50% on first visit.

Men’s Health & Wellness CHICAGO MALE CLINIC Jerry Garcia, PA-C 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago 60646 773-414-9900 • ChicagoMaleClinic.com Chicago Male Clinic (CMC) is a holistic health and wellness center for men providing a natural integrated approach to improving men’s sexual health. CMC offers therapeutic massage, exercise and stretch therapy, men’s yoga classes, patient coaches and trainers. CMC offers a natural approach to treating erectile difficulties (ED) with its Acoustic Wave Therapy. Call for your complimentary, in-person consultation (valued at $225). Book your first appointment at ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 11.

Pet Wellness CARE DOG SOLUTIONS 331-250-4528 CareDogSoulutions@gmail.com CareDogSolutions.com Care Dog Solutions provides pet wellness support through advanced food and environmental sensitivity testing using hair analysis, helping pet parents uncover hidden triggers like nutritional imbalances, heavy metals and intolerance. With these insights, the service also offers personalized meal plans to restore health, reduce sensitivities and improve dogs’ overall well-being.

Reflexology JASMIN REFLEXOLOGY 773-979-5351 JJahal@hotmail.com JasminReflexology.com Reflexology is a wellness protocol that stimulates the nervous system by applying precise, alternating pressure to the feet or hands. It helps your body relieve stress, improve sleep, lower blood pressure, balance hormones and reduce chronic pain. Jasmin is nationally certified and a recognized educator. Call for a free consultation.

Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I fail, but every day is a clean slate and a fresh opportunity. —Gretchen Rubin

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Skeletal Strengthening

Trauma Coach

OSTEOSTRONG 126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091 224-487-8833 195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195 224-487-8881 OsteoStrong.me

CHANDI ASHA Inner Light Healing Hello@CoachingByChandi.com CoachingByChandi.com

OsteoStrong is an Integrative Health and Wellness Center with a focus on musculoskeletal strengthening. The 4-device circuit takes only minutes once per week to complete. Under the direction of a skilled technician, users engage in a safe, controlled movement that results in a stimulus to the central nervous system, triggering osteogenesis or new bone growth. See ad on page 17.

Thermography ILLINOIS THERMOGRAPHY Map And Track Your Health! 50+ locations in the Chicago area 847-363-3314 IllinoisThermography.com The highly sensitive thermal scan is crucial in prevention and early screening for breast and body health. Thermal imaging can show precursors to heart disease, vascular obstruction, lymphatic congestion, autoimmune disorders, skeletal dysfunction and neural dysfunction in anyone. Early detection and prevention are always less complicated than treatment. See ad on page 45.

Break free from what once controlled you! At Inner Light Healing, we help you move from survival to self-trust through holistic trauma coaching. Using neuroscience, mindfulness, and compassion, Chandi guides you to heal your nervous system, release old patterns, and rediscover the peace that’s been within you all along.

Tree Care BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Serving Chicagoland 877-227-8538 Bartlett.com Expert tree care for 117 years and growing. Specializing in pruning, fertilization, cabling and bracing, insect and disease management, tree inspections, storm damage repair, lightning protection and removals. Visit our website to schedule your complimentary appointment with a Bartlett Arborist Representative. We’re here for every tree.

YOGA, PILATES, DANCE, FITNESS & MOVEMENT NETWORK 2026 NETWORK LISTINGS Dance HIGHLAND PARK TIME TO DANCE Discover the healing art of dance Ballet, modern and tap for adults 50+ @North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel Ave 847-432-2060 | Time-To-Dance.org

Sports Performance Training WHEATON & CHICAGO FLEX/JULIE MACKEY Mental Skills. Yoga. Mobility. Meditation. 1:1 and Team Packages Virtual & In-Person. JulieMackey.com

Yoga Studios EVANSTON

Join Us in Welcoming New Neighbors with a HomeTown Hug is more than a welcome basket—it’s a warm introduction to our community. Each year, we personally greet over 700 new homeowners in McHenry County, connecting them with local businesses and non-profits like yours to build lasting relationships and create a welcoming neighborhood.

Become a community partner today! Call 847-508-1181 or visit Facebook.com/HometownHugs Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

HEAVEN MEETS EARTH YOGA COMMUNITY Yoga Therapy. Health. Nutrition. Fitness Coaching. Functional Strength. Teacher Training. Retreats. Outdoor Yoga. Reiki. Healing Boutique. 847-475-1500 HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Peggy@NAChicago.com January 2026

BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU 2-Weekend Intensive

Feb 13-15 and 20-22, Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

10-Week Sessions

Mar 31 - June 2, Tuesdays 10am-1pm Apr 2 - June 4, Thursdays 7-10pm zenshiatsu.edu/ce/beginning_zen_shiatsu/

E-mail info@zenshiatsu.edu or call 847-864-1130 to sign up today!

www.zenshiatsu.edu 818 Lake Street, Evanston, IL Earn your massage license while studying holistic therapy! Financial aid available for those who qualify. Approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education

January 2026 Natural Awakenings Chicago