June 2026 Natural Awakenings Chicago Magazine

Warriors of the Light Leadership Retreat

In presence we awaken. In Light we remember.

Costa Rica • November 11 - 16, 2026

JOIN US FOR A Five-night, all-inclusive beachfront retreat at Reunion Wellness Resort in one of Costa Rica’s Blue Zones

Our experience is based on presence, integrity, sovereignty, and shared leadership.

WOTL leadership is defined not by titles or roles, but by presence, integrity, sovereignty, and authentic participation within the shared field.

EXPERIENCE

This co-ed retreat encourages real connection in a supportive, substance-free space. Each day includes gentle reflection, conversation, participant-led experiences woven gently throughout the retreat, and plenty of time to rest and reflect.

REFLECTION

You do not need to search, earn, or prove anything. Instead, you can quietly return to what is already steady, powerful, whole, and alive within you. A Warrior of the Light lives from this place, grounded in integrity, rooted in sovereignty, and present with others in a shared field of heart coherence.

CHICAGO EDITION

Publisher Peggy Malecki

Sales & Marketing Heidi Hetzel

Peggy Malecki

Operations Jhona Cordero

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Sara Gurgen

Randy Kambic

Writers Bob Benenson

Sheryl DeVore

Marlaina Donato

Design & Production Courtney Ayers

Suzzanne Siegel

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Chicago

P.O. Box 72, Highland Park, IL 60035 Ph: 847-858-3697

Peggy@NAChicago.com • NAChicago.com

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Whether you note the start of meteorological summer on June 1, as I happily do, or wait for the solstice, June has always felt like the season is finally arriving in its full regalia. Growing up on the Northwest Side of Chicago, some of my favorite memories are of simple evenings spent outside after our family supper, my dad sitting in an aluminum folding lawn chair with the woven white-and-green checkerboard straps and me perched on the back steps, watching the sky slowly change color as dusk settled in. We’d listen to the robins singing their evening song from our parkway elm and backyard apple tree. My dad taught me how to whistle back to them, something I still do today.

June memories are also anchored to our family’s summer vacations, which we took in early June before the crowds, traveling the back roads of the country in a rented mini-motorhome and often celebrating my dad’s birthday—and sometimes Father’s Day—in a national park or somewhere else along the way. My associations of summer were formed early on with an appreciation of this beautiful yet fleeting season. They were built on being outdoors, staying active, exploring new places and paying attention to the world around us.

This month’s issue of Natural Awakenings Chicago explores vitality through the lens of men’s health. From hormonal balance and restorative sleep to movement and time spent outdoors, our articles remind us that feeling our best often begins with paying closer attention to the basics.

Low testosterone is often misunderstood or simply attributed to “getting older,” yet it can affect far more than libido, influencing energy, sleep, mood, motivation and overall vitality. Marlaina Donato explores the topic further in our feature article, “The Facts About Low Testosterone: What Every Man Should Know.” Stress, poor sleep and other factors can also play a role in hormonal health and long-term well-being, themes that continue in “Sleep Health for Men: Foundational Habits for a Better Life,” by Hannah Tytus. We also take wellness outdoors in “The Resurgence of Rucking: An Ancient Activity for Modern Fitness,” a reminder that sometimes the simplest practices are still some of the best: get outside, move the body and reconnect with the outdoors.

The season brings opportunities to gather outdoors, cook fresh foods and enjoy the abundance of local farmers markets across Chicagoland. In “Smarter Summer Grilling: Making Barbecue More Flavorful and Healthy,” we explore healthier, creative approaches to summer grilling that are satisfying and full of summer flavor. In his latest Local Food Dispatch, Bob Benenson takes us on a tour of what’s arriving at area farmers markets this month.

Gardens invite us to spend more time outdoors, slow the pace a little and reconnect with the natural world. In “Turn Any Patio Into a Pollinator Haven,” Jacob Burns, curator of plant collections at the Chicago Botanic Garden, explains how even small patios and balconies can become vibrant container gardens filled with native plants and colorful annuals that attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. And in this month’s Natural Chicago, Sheryl DeVore looks at some of the invasive plant species spreading across the region and what we can do in our own backyards to help reduce their impact.

As always, I encourage you to spend as much time outdoors as possible this month, whether that means a walk at dusk, a visit to your local farmers market, time in the garden or simply sitting outside on a warm evening and listening to the birds settle in for the night. And try to stay outside as late as possible on the solstice. We are gifted just one longest day each year, and it’s worth savoring.

Happy Solstice!

Celebrate Father’s Day With Cars, BBQ and Wellness in Northbrook

Health Clarified will host its Father’s Day Performance & Recovery Pop-In from 4 to 7 p.m. on June 5 at its Northbrook office, offering an afternoon of family-friendly activities that focuses on wellness, recovery and community connection.

The event will feature award-winning barbecue from the Soul & Smoke food truck, lawn games, live demonstrations and interactive recovery experiences. Fathers are invited to bring classic cars, hot rods, performance vehicles and specialty cars for a community car show in the parking lot.

Guests can receive complimentary posture and foot scans and attend demonstrations on psoas and hip flexor stretching, foam rolling for recovery, and strategies to improve movement, mobility and performance. Information on cardiovascular and liver health screenings will also be available, with attendees able to schedule future blood draws during the event.

Special event-only offers include $50 SoftWave Therapy cycles, as well as 50 percent discounts on Normatec Compression sessions, BrainTap sessions and Neural HRV scans. The event will also highlight how BrainTap technology may help to support focus, performance and recovery in everyday life.

Location: 2165A Shermer Rd., Northbrook. For more information, visit HealthClarifiedNow.com See ads on pages 9 and 41, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Wild Onion Market Celebrates Anniversary With Savings and Events

Throughout June, Wild Onion Market grocery co-op, in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, will offer special promotions, discounts and activities to mark its second anniversary. The community-owned store opened on June 12, 2024, and has established itself as a go-to grocery store for local produce and products, organic foods, specialty items like non-homogenized milk and community events including Fermentor Fridays and Our Neighbors’ Kitchen.

Shoppers will receive a 10 percent discount on local products, excluding produce, during the co-op’s Anniversary Celebration Day on June 13, which will feature music, samples, a chance to meet local vendors and more. Owners will also receive the 10 percent savings on local products from June 6 through 14, along with a coupon for $5 off any purchase during the month.

Wild Onion Market is open to all shoppers. Customers may become owners by investing in the co-op. The store now has 2,610 owners and continues to welcome more new members.

Location: 7007 N. Clark St., Chicago. For more information on becoming an owner, visit WildOnionMarket.com/become-an-owner

Save on Supplements During Special Highland Health Foods’ Sale

Highland Health Foods, in Highland Park, will offer 30 to 50 percent off all supplements during a three-day Supplement Sale from June 25 through 27. The health food store carries one of the area’s largest selections of gluten-free and kosher supplements, along with wellness products and everyday essentials for the whole family.

For two decades, Highland Health Foods has served Highland Park and surrounding communities with quality products and knowledgeable customer service. “We believe in providing the highest quality product and the best customer service at a reasonable price. Our well-trained staff has over 75 years of combined service in the health foods industry,” says store manager Vito Bucaro.

Location: 149 Skokie Valley Rd., Highland Park. For more information, call 847-8310460 or visit HighlandHealthFoods.com. See ad on page 31 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Zen Shiatsu Chicago Marks 20 Years of Healing and Education

Zen Shiatsu Chicago will celebrate its 20th anniversary on June 26 at its Evanston shiatsu massage therapy school and clinic, which has graduated more than 300 students that have gone on to become licensed shiatsu therapists. Thousands of clients have sought care at the clinic for chronic pain, sleep and digestion concerns, immune system issues, chronic illness and emotional health goals.

Over the years, the clinic has developed a specialty in working with difficult health issues linked to major stress and trauma, including certain chronic pain cases, emotional overwhelm and autoimmune disorders. Practitioners specialize in working with these conditions, and the school offers postgraduate training for those seeking advanced education in this kind of care.

Founded in 2006 by Steve Rogne and Amber Matthews, Zen Shiatsu Chicago evolved from Ohashiatsu Chicago, which opened in Evanston in 1985 as the first U.S. branch of the Ohashi Institute. Today, Zen Shiatsu Chicago is the largest shiatsu school in the U.S., graduating 30 to 40 therapists annually and offering specialized postgraduate trainings and symposiums attended by practitioners from around the country.

Location: 818 Lake St., Evanston. For more information or to enroll, email Info@ZenShiatsu.edu or visit ZenShiatsuMassageEvanston.com. See ad on the back cover, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Connect, Collaborate and Grow Through Holistic Networking

Illuminate Future of Healers in Naperville, a monthly networking gathering for holistic and integrative health professionals, meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness + Crystal Shop, in Aurora. The meetups aim to help local practitioners connect, collaborate and learn about different healing modalities.

The gatherings welcome a wide range of practitioners, including energy workers, massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, intuitive readers, yoga teachers and health coaches. Activities include guided introductions, member

spotlights and mini-workshops.

“Illuminate Future of Healers in Naperville is designed to help support the growing healing community,” says Judy Bazis, founder of Illuminate Festivals and co-facilitator of the gatherings. “We feel it’s important to connect in real life and not simply on our screens.”

Co-facilitators include Bazis, Aura Holistic owner Stacey Valle and medical intuitive Kathy Pacey. Light refreshments will be served, and attendees are encouraged to bring business cards.

Cost: $10 cash love offering at the door or purchase tickets online. Location: 1242 N. Eola Rd., Ste. F, Aurora. For more information or to RSVP, contact Judy Bazis at 575-519-5883 or Judy@IlluminateFestivals. com. To purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite.com/e/illuminate-future-ofhealers-in-naperville-illinois-tickets-1976669584939?aff=oddtdtcreaor.

Discover Healing at Holistic Health Fair

The Holistic Health Fair returns to Crystal Lake on July 26, gathering practitioners, vendors and wellness enthusiasts for a full day devoted to holistic living. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Chicago NW Crystal Lake Conference Center and is recognized as one of the Midwest’s larger body-mind-spirit gatherings.

Founded in 2019 by wellness advocate Debra Smith-Andersen, the fair now hosts multiple events each year throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan. The Crystal Lake event will feature a wide range of integrative and metaphysical offerings, including massage, herbal products, nutrition resources, intuitive readings, alternative therapies, sound and energy healing, crystals and skincare.

Admission includes access to educational presentations and opportunities to connect with local practitioners and wellness-focused businesses. A special keynote session at noon will feature channeler and soul healer Jena Biermann. The ticketed keynote includes general admission plus access to a group meditation and an interactive Akashic Records experience.

Cost: $5 in advance; $10 at the door; $25 for the keynote, which includes admission and is available through advance purchase only. Location: 800 S. Illinois Rte. 31, Crystal Lake. For more information, tickets or to apply to be a vendor, visit HolisticHealthFair.org. Vendors can receive a $20 booth discount through June 30 with coupon code NA20. See ad on page 12.

Veggie Fest Chicago Offers Vendor and Sponsorship Opportunities

The 16th annual Veggie Fest Chicago will take place on August 8 and 9 at Danada South Park, in Lisle, bringing together thousands of attendees for one of North America’s largest healthy living and wellness festivals. The free, two-day event is supported by more than 1,200 volunteers from 30 countries.

With 35,000 to 50,000 attendees across both days, it offers vendors and sponsors a strong platform to build visibility and showcase their brand to families throughout Chicago and surrounding affluent suburban communities. Veggie Fest is supported by substantial marketing efforts, including digital promotion, physical flyers, signage and broad community outreach. It’s also known for being well organized, with strong infrastructure and a high-quality experience for attendees, vendors and sponsors alike.

The family-oriented festival features more than 75 vendor booths, live music from Chicago-area bands, cooking demonstrations, expert speakers, children’s programming, an international food court, meditation sessions and yoga classes.

For more information on sponsorship and vendor opportunities, call 630-842-9229 or email JonathanKruger@sos.org. Also visit VeggieFestChicago.org/become-a-sponsor-festival or VeggieFestChicago.org/become-a-vendor-festival See ad in the Natural Awakenings Chicago June e-newsletter.

Camino Offers Two Transformative Retreats for Inner Exploration

Known for its self-discovery work and meditation classes, Camino Wellness Center, based in Wheeling, Illinois, will present two upcoming getaway retreats designed to help participants navigate the mind and cultivate mature emotional intelligence.

First is the This Being Human Yoga, Meditation & Self-Discovery Retreat, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Atitlán in San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala, from August 29 to September 6. This immersive, eight-day experience focuses on cultivating a living relationship with oneself and discovering a more spacious mind capable of seeing through constricting thoughts and emotions. The retreat is designed for those seeking balance between movement and seated meditation.

For those drawn to the majestic quiet of the mountains, the center will conduct a 10Day Self-Discovery & Meditation Retreat in Crestone, Colorado, from October 30 to November 9. Nestled in the secluded stillness of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this intensive offers a deep dive into the subtle mind-body connection. Guests will enjoy wholesome vegetarian meals, hot springs and ample time for personal reflection in nature.

For more information or to register, call 224-300-0499 or visit CaminoWellnessCenter.com. See ad on page 8 and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Iron rusts from disuse; water loses its purity from stagnation…even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind.

—Leonardo da Vinci

Explore Wellness and Wonder at TheosoFEST

TheosoFEST Mind Body Spirit Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 12 on 40 acres of the Theosophical Society’s grounds in Wheaton. The event will feature talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic healing and more.

Attendees can enjoy vegetarian food, a holistic marketplace showcasing more than 100 vendors, a Kids’ Korner, intuitive readings, labyrinth walks, tai chi and yoga. The grounds also feature a library, the Quest Book Shop and the Buddha Meditation Garden.

The first Theosophical Society in America TheosoFEST was held in 1990 in conjunction with the Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions. The festival grows in popularity each year, attracting thousands of visitors.

Vendor spots are still available for businesses aligned with mindbody-spirit wellness.

Admission is free; $5 parking. Location: 1926 N. Main St., Wheaton. For more information or to apply to be a vendor, visit Theosophical. org/theosofest See ad on page 23

Unearth Nature’s Secrets at Mycelium Mysteries Conference

Midwest Women’s Herbal will hold its 10th annual Mycelium Mysteries Women’s Mushroom Conference from September 18 through 20 at the Bethel Horizons Retreat Center, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. The location provides a beautiful setting with comfortable lodging and a diverse habitat for exploring the natural world.

The program includes more than 40 workshops, mushroom forays and keynote addresses covering a wide spectrum of information on mushrooms, fall herbs and their ecological associations. Meals will be provided by the retreat center’s culinary team.

The conference offers programming for all knowledge levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Featured keynote speakers include Sue VanHook, Ruth Barrett and Rose Tursi. Workshop topics include cooking with mushrooms for health, beginner and advanced mushroom identification, tree identification, medicine making, creating art with the natural world, healing drum journeys, mushrooms for the endocrine system, women’s mysteries and connections, blending mushrooms and herbs, collecting seeds and much more.

Location: 4651 County Rd. ZZ, Dodgeville, WI. For more information or to register, visit MyceliumMysteries.com. See ad on page 25.

Retreat and Recharge at Soulful Prairies

Soulful Prairies is a retreat destination nestled on 80 acres in Woodstock, offering a serene and inspiring backdrop for private, team and corporate retreats, as well as venue rentals. Designed as an equine gestalt therapy and retreat center, the property features an operating barn with horses, open pastures, walking paths, a conservancy pond and a viewing station, all available for exclusive use by guests.

Retreat offerings include half-, full- and multi-day experiences. The barn loft provides a warm, inviting space for shared meals and socializing. Guests can also spend time in the quiet pines, explore the Fairy Forest, walk the labyrinth and trails, and connect with horses, farm animals and wildlife on the property. Accommodations include rustic-chic lodgings in the cabin on the prairie and guest suites in the lower level of the main house.

Retreat experiences can be enhanced with additional services such as an equine gestalt experience, yoga, massage therapy, chef-prepared

meals and more. Soulful Prairies invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature, horses, others and themselves.

Location: 4706 Alden Rd., Woodstock, IL. For more information, visit SoulfulPrairies.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Nurturing Potential at Green Friends Montessori School

Situated on a nature-surrounded campus in Elburn, Green Friends Montessori School is a nonprofit private institution serving children ages 3 to 12 through primary and elementary programs. Extended childcare is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to support working families.

The school’s curriculum is rooted in the world-renowned methodology of Dr. Maria Montessori, who believed that children flourish when they are empowered to make independent choices. Students participate in language arts, mathematics, practical life activities and sensorial exercises designed to build academic skills, confidence and environmental awareness.

Green Friends Montessori School maintains a tech-free campus without computers or iPads, encouraging children to engage directly with nature studies, geography, botany and zoology. Through exploration of the natural world and space, students develop a broader understanding of themselves and their place in the universe.

Beyond the core curriculum, students participate in weekly art appreciation and music activities that foster creativity, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

Families are invited to attend open house events from noon to 2 p.m. on June 27 and July 25. Visitors can explore the school’s nature-based campus, meet teachers and learn about Montessori programs for children ages 3to12, including preschool, kindergarten, elementary and extended childcare.

Location: 0N905 MA Center Dr., Elburn. For more information or to enroll, call 630-457-9178 or visit GreenFriendsMontessori.com See ad on page 27, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Health Clarified, in Northbrook, recently welcomed Licensed Clinical Esthetician Olivia Ilie to the team as their newest esthetician and the face behind Skin Clarified Esthetics. Known for her intentional approach and passion for healthy, radiant skin, Ilie creates and applies treatments that are both results-driven and deeply rejuvenating.

Location: 2165A Shermer Rd., in Northbrook. For more information or to make an appointment, call 224-344-8668, email Office@HealthClarifiedNow.com or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com. See ads on pages 9 and 41, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Healthy Skin Starts in the Gut

by Olivia Ilea

The skin care industry is booming now more than ever, with a plethora of new products, treatments and devices. But healthy skin is about more than just topical care—it goes deeper, down to the gut. True skin health is characterized by a few key factors: smooth texture, even tone, proper moisture balance, functioning collagen and elastin, and an intact barrier. This barrier is where gut health begins to play an important role.

Both the gut and skin house microbiota that help to shape the immune system and protect the body against pathogens. When the gut microbiome becomes stressed or unbalanced, the immune system can become dysregulated, triggering inflammation. Often, that inflammation can show up on the skin in the form of acne, rosacea, eczema and other chronic skin conditions.

Diet also plays a vital role in skin health. Certain food ingredients can damage the gut lining, contributing to what is commonly referred to as “leaky gut”. When this barrier becomes compromised, toxins and inflammatory compounds can pass into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body right into the skin, which is nourished directly through capillary networks. A healthy gut is also necessary for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. When gut function is impaired, absorption of important nutrients such as zinc, vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids may be hindered—all of which are necessary for repair, hydration, collagen production and overall skin health.

Beyond digestion, the gut is also a major endocrine organ involved in hormone production and regulation. Gut dysbiosis can contribute to hormonal imbalances, such as elevating androgens like testosterone and cortisol. These hormonal shifts can stimulate excess oil production, disrupting the skin’s moisture balance and contributing to acne. A 2018 study, published in Acta Dermato-Venereologica in August 2018, showed that patients with acne actually had a distinct gut microbiome composition with decreased diversity of beneficial bacteria and increased levels of Bacteroides, a certain inflammatory bacterial strain.

The condition of the gut can directly influence the health and appearance of the skin long term. While skin care products and professional treatments are here to support the skin, health must start from within.

Olivia Ilie is a licensed clinical esthetician at Health Clarified, located at 2165A Shermer Rd., in Northbrook. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 224-344-8668, email Office@HealthClarifiedNow.com or visit HealthClarifiedNow.com.

See ads on pages 9 and 41, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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—Robin Williams

Capturing an Earthquake

On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7 earthquake struck central Myanmar, near Mandalay. It was the second-deadliest earthquake in the country’s modern history. Geologists determined it was a strike-slip fault quake, where two large sections of the Earth’s crust move horizontally past each other along a vertical fracture, resulting in a split of the ground along a clear line.

What made this event unique is that it was caught on a closed-circuit television camera. A research team from Kyoto University examined the video frame by frame and found the fault moved on a slight curve more than eight feet in 1.3 seconds. The video can be viewed at TinyURL.com/Myanmar-Quake

Summer’s Fleeting Joys

by Marlaina Donato

Most of us can remember the euphoria of the last day of school, which ushered in summer break and the freedom to sleep in. As adults, summer often brings a whirlwind of vacation plans, home improvement projects and family fun, leaving little time for true leisure. Despite waiting all year for the “easy” life, we might still struggle to relax.

Summer is a crescendo of lush abundance, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its vibrant colors, scents and textures. Whether savoring a bite of cold watermelon or enjoying a free concert under the stars, appreciating the bliss at hand can make a fleeting season feel a bit longer.

“In summer, the song sings itself,” said William Carlos Williams in his poem The Botticellian

Trees, urging us to stop trying so hard to achieve something. Unexpected memories are made when we forget the itinerary, and epiphanies arise when we let the surf roll between our toes.

June arrives with birdsong and ethereal mornings, beckoning for mindfulness. Walking in a field at dawn reveals wildflowers that will soon be replaced by others within a few days. Newly green spaces shimmer with momentary brilliance, waiting for our sketchbooks, picnic baskets or a simple nod of gratitude.

Whether choosing a colorful scarf or saying “yes” to a date with someone new, summer’s loveliest month inspires us to infuse passion into the ordinary. This month, consider inviting friends for a summer solstice grill, make it a point to notice more sunsets and allot time daily to unplug and do nothing.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com

JoinUs!

Cayce’s A.R.E. “Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Chicago” “Spiritual Growth and Personal Development”

Thursday, June 4, 7:00-8:00 pm

Sound Bath

Thursdays, June 4 - July 9, 7:00-8:00 pm

Matt’s Movement with Tai Chi & QiGong

Saturday, June 6, 2:00-5:00 pm

What In Life Took Your Power Away?

What Does Your Face Say About you?

Saturday, June 13, 2:00-3:30 pm

Crystal Talk: Summer Is Here

Friday, June 19, 6:00-9:00 pm

Crystal Grid Workshop Visit our website for details/registration: HolisticCenterChicago.com

FireHorse Manifestation Activation

Evidential Spirit Art Portrait

Saturday, June 27, 2:00-4:00 pm

Chicago Male Clinic:

Redefining Men’s Performance, Recovery and Longevity

by Natural Awakenings Staff

At Chicago Male Clinic, men’s health is viewed through a broader, more empowering lens of vitality, recovery and longevity. With an all-male staff that understands how easily health can take a back seat to work and responsibilities, the Northwest Side clinic offers a supportive, judgment-free environment where men can take control of how they feel, function and perform—at any age.

“We know it’s not always easy to walk through the door,” says Medical Director Jerry Garcia, PA-C. “But when men do, they realize this is about far more than addressing one concern. It’s about optimizing their entire system for the long term. Our team understands the challenges many men face when discussing topics like ED or performance—and we meet every patient with respect, discretion and professionalism.”

nervous system function; massage therapy, including therapeutic, sports and medical techniques, to reduce tension and boost circulation; stretch therapy to increase flexibility, joint health and range of motion; and acupuncture to regulate the nervous system, reduce stress and promote internal balance.

Together, these therapies help men move more efficiently, recover faster and build lasting resilience.

A cornerstone of the clinic’s approach is improving blood flow and cellular regeneration—key factors in overall health and longevity. Noninvasive acoustic wave and shockwave therapies are used to stimulate circulation, support vascular health and activate the body’s natural repair mechanisms.

Each new patient appointment begins with a confidential consultation and comprehensive evaluation to uncover root causes rather than mask symptoms. The clinic assesses key drivers of men’s health, including circulation, mobility, hormonal balance, recovery capacity and energy levels.

“We summarize our philosophy in three words: Engage, Educate and Empower,” says Patient Care Coordinator Raymond Wohl. “We look at the full picture. Men’s performance—in the gym, at work and in their personal lives—is interconnected. When one area improves, everything else benefits. This isn’t about a quick fix. It’s about building habits, confidence and long-term wellness.”

Integrated Therapies for Strength and Recovery

Chicago Male Clinic blends medical care with hands-on therapies that support the body’s natural ability to heal and perform. Customized plans may include musculoskeletal and sports medicine care to improve movement patterns, prevent injury and build functional strength; chiropractic care to enhance alignment, mobility and

“When circulation improves, all aspects of performance improve,” Garcia explains. “That applies to physical recovery, energy levels and sexual health.”

At Chicago Male Clinic, sexual health is treated as an essential component of overall vitality. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often linked to circulation issues, stress, hormonal imbalance and physical conditioning, making it a whole-body issue rather than an isolated condition.

“Men’s performance and successful ED treatment go hand in hand,” Garcia says. “When we improve circulation, strength and metabolic health, we’re restoring function and not just managing symptoms.”

Rather than relying on medications or invasive procedures, the clinic uses regenerative therapies to support natural biological processes. Acoustic wave therapy, the clinic’s signature treatment, helps stimulate new blood vessel growth and improve vascular function, leading to more sustainable results.

“Sexual performance is often a reflection of overall health,” Garcia adds. “When it improves, it’s a strong indicator that the body is

functioning better as a whole.”

Building Strength From the Inside Out

Patients also receive personalized guidance to help maintain their progress at home. Supportive programs may include high-performance movement coaching, science-based nutrition plans, targeted supplementation and stress management strategies.

This integrated approach helps men build strength, sustain energy and enhance recovery in their daily lives.

Each visit builds on the last, as the staff helps men identify wellness

obstacles, reduce stress and move toward health goals with greater clarity and confidence. By addressing physical, mental and physiological factors together, Chicago Male Clinic creates a pathway to lasting vitality.

“Taking that first step isn’t just about treatment,” Wohl says. “It’s about reclaiming control, confidence and quality of life. Seeing men take charge of their health and become the best version of themselves; it never gets old. Helping men return not only to a happier version of themselves but also to show up more fully for their loved ones is what drives us.”

With a focus on innovation and whole-person care, Chicago Male Clinic is helping men redefine aging—not as decline, but as an opportunity to build strength, resilience and enduring well-being.

Chicago Male Clinic is located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, in Chicago. To schedule an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or email Info@ChicagoMaleClinic.com. For more information, visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com See ad on this page, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

“The best physical exam, ever!” “The best physical exam, ever!

Invasive Plant Species:

Non-Native Shrubs Remain Priority, but Others Can Cause Problems in Chicago Region

by Sheryl DeVore

For decades, land managers, gardeners and landscape firms that focus on native plants in the United States have been removing invasive plant species and replacing them with alternatives that are healthier for the environment.

“We’re never going to be done with keeping these invasive plants in check,” says Sharon Yiesla, plant knowledge specialist for the plant clinic at the Morton Arboretum (MortonArb.org). “But if homeowners and managers of public gardens and natural areas and natural area landscape firms work together, they can control these species and improve the health of ecosystems.”

A recent study co-authored by the Morton Arboretum found that the biggest invasive plant problem in the Chicago region is non-native shrubs, with common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) being the No. 1 culprit and various non-native honeysuckle species in the Lonicera genus close behind (ScienceDirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1618866725000986).

“Invasive shrubs are a serious threat to our forests,” said report co-author and the Arboretum’s Center for Tree Science Fellow Lindsay Darling, Ph.D. “As quick and aggressive spreaders, these invasive shrubs can significantly alter and threaten our native habitats, including our keystone oak ecosystems, which support a large diversity of life.”

Other invasive species in the region include Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana) and wildflowers

such as garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) and lesser celandine (Ficaria verna). All of these, along with the invasive shrubs, grow in urban and suburban yards as well as in natural areas.

They arrived from other countries through various means, both intentionally—to help farmers and provide new plants for gardeners—and unintentionally, such as through ship ballast and other pathways.

Invasive Plants Defined

Invasive plants are those introduced from outside their natural region, but not all introduced plants become invasive. “When we talk about invasive species, we’re looking at plants that are getting out to natural areas and becoming a problem for native species, and in turn the ecosystem,” Yiesla says. “It’s a much more serious issue than people realize.”

“Fruits and seeds from these invasive plants get transplanted from birds, animals, wind and rain, and even spread underground,” Yiesla explains. In the case of common buckthorn, birds eat the fruits and spread them very quickly. “The fruits pass through their systems so rapidly that they’re not getting any nutrition,” she says.

“When invasive plants take over, that sets off a chain reaction, because the native plants, insects and other wildlife rely on are not there anymore,” she adds.

The Illinois Exotic Weed Act was passed in 1987 and makes the sale of certain invasive plants illegal in the state. Plants continue to Invasive purple loosestrife.

Ways Invasive Plants Were Introduced

Invasive plants came to the region in various ways, including intentional introduction to help farmers or gardeners, while others were inadvertently transported via boat ballast and other means. Many were sold for decades at garden centers.

Common buckthorn was introduced to North America from Eurasia in the early to mid-1800s for farm windbreaks and privacy hedges for homeowners. By the early 1900s, this shrub, which could tolerate many growing conditions, spread beyond gardens and farms into natural areas, where it shaded out native plants and added toxins to the soil.

be monitored and added to the list (Extension.Illinois.edu/invasives/ regulations).

Ways Invasive Plants Are Kept in Check

Many hours of volunteer work and funds are required to keep these species at bay. For example, Chicago region forest preserve districts spend more than $1 million annually to eradicate buckthorn and non-native honeysuckle, according to the Chicago Region Tree Initiative at the Morton Arboretum.

Depending on the species, employees and volunteers perform periodic controlled burns, cut down invasive plants, pull them out of the ground and at times, trained staff carefully apply herbicides. Then they replace the landscape with more suitable plants and monitor for the return of invasives.

Callery pear, thought to be sterile, was imported to the U.S. by the Department of Agriculture in hopes of saving the common pear tree from blight. The Callery pear soon hybridized with other ornamental pear tree species and began setting fruit and seeds. By the 1980s, it was the second most popular tree in the U.S. and was being sold at many garden centers. It, like buckthorn, adapted well to various conditions including drought and pollution.

Garlic mustard was brought to the U.S. by European settlers that used it for medicine and food. Native to Europe and Africa, teasel was introduced to North America for use in the textile trade and for flower arrangements and craft projects.

At the Morton Arboretum and other natural areas and public gardens, staff and volunteers periodically remove buckthorn and other non-native shrubs by cutting them down and burning the branches.

“Anyone working in natural areas knows buckthorn is such a big problem that we also have to use specific herbicides,” Yiesla says. “But we only treat the stump of buckthorn and use small amounts. It’s not like spraying the yard with chemicals.”

“It’s good to be concerned about using chemicals to get rid of invasive plants, and often it can be done in garden landscapes without using pesticides,” Yiesla adds.

Home gardeners can get rid of the buckthorn before it gets large and produces berries. “If you have a lot of it, you might have to hire a landscaper to remove as much as possible,” Yiesla says, adding that

Common Green Darner

Anax junius

The Common Green Darner has one of the longest flight seasons of North American dragonflies and may often be the first dragonfly to be spotted each spring.

It is the green thorax of these dragonflies that give them the common name; their abdomens may be blue to purple or gray (may be rusty purple to brown in females). The leading edge of their wings is yellowish, and an amber coloration may sometimes extend further into the wing. Females (see photo) have brown eyes; males have green eyes. Look for the bulls-eye pattern on the top of the head.

Adult Average Size: 3 inches (typically 70-80 mm)

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Odonata

Family: Aeshnidae

(i.e., Darners)

Facts:

• Some Common Green Darners are not migratory, while others, curiously, migrate with the change in seasons.

• If you get close enough, you might actually hear the clash of wings when males of the species spar with one another.

afterward, gardeners need to be diligent about watching for new sprouts of buckthorn in their yards.

Garlic

Mustard, Invasive Pear, Lesser Celandine and Teasel

Yiesla says she has seen state park trails lined with garlic mustard. “Nothing else was growing there,” she says. Pulling garlic mustard is time consuming but fairly easy when the ground is moist. The best time to remove the plant, including its taproot, is in spring before it flowers and sets seed. Various natural area volunteers pull garlic mustard each spring, then put it into garbage bags so seeds cannot get carried away to create more stands of the invasive.

A newcomer to the state list of exotic weeds is the Callery pear, sometimes called Bradford pear. The sale of this species will be banned in Illinois beginning in January 2028.

“Look anywhere in a wooded area in spring where you see trees flowering white,” Yiesla says. “People think it’s a native cherry blooming, but it’s likely a Callery pear. They’re thorny, and it takes a lot of work to dig them out.” She’s seen open fields in the Chicago region “just filled with Callery pear.” Even if it’s still for sale, she recommends not buying or planting it.

The invasive lesser celandine is becoming more common and worrisome, Yiesla adds. This low-growing ground cover with yellow blooms forms dense carpets that smother native plants, riverbeds and lawns. Removing the plants is time consuming, doesn’t always work and requires digging the bulbs and tubers out of the soil.

Woodlands and other spots where invasive shrubs and other plants have been removed become a sea of diversity again. On a recent spring day, Yiesla visited a woodland at the Arboretum where volunteers keep the invasive plants in check.

“I saw so many wildflowers, Dutchman’s breeches and trillium, hepatica and bloodroot and spring beauty, and native shrubs and trees such as buckeye and wild cherry,” she says. These plants in turn attract native pollinators, which also serve as food for native birds.

Though typically not found in gardens, a plant called teasel (Dipsacus sp.) is invading wood edges, shrublands and roadsides. Forest

preserve and natural land area volunteers remove teasel, which, at first glance, looks similar to thistle, by digging the basal rosettes in spring and cutting the seed heads. But it’s a tough plant to eradicate, and land managers have carefully used herbicides in some instances. One teasel plant drops thousands of seeds, overcrowding and smothering native plants, grasses and wildflowers that help feed natural wildlife, according to the Long Grove Park District, which works to eradicate it from its properties and asks homeowners to do the same.

“It’s important for people to know what plants they have in their yards and what they are buying,” Yiesla says. “Some of the introduced plants are fine, but people need to be educated on which ones are not. More people are asking questions and want to learn more about invasive plant species and how to get rid of them and what to replace them with.”

Some examples for replacing non-native honeysuckles and buckthorn include native blackhaw viburnum, spicebush and bush honeysuckle, a low-growing native shrub with yellow flowers blooming in early summer. Yiesla notes the bush honeysuckle is in the Diervilla genus and is not related to the invasive honeysuckles in the Lonicera genus.

Editor’s note: While woods and shrublands are being invaded by destructive introduced plants, wetlands are also experiencing similar problems. Read more about this in an upcoming issue.

To learn more about identifying invasive plants and suitable replacements, visit Mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/chicago-region-trees-initiative/ how-to-deal-with-invasive-woody-plants

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as nature, health and environment stories for national and regional publications. She is co-author of an upcoming book, Birds of the Midwest, to be published by Timber Press. Learn more at SherylDeVore.WordPress.com

Celebrate 30 Years of Prairie Restoration at National Trails Day Event

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, in Wilmington, will celebrate both National Trails Day and its 30th anniversary with an open house from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 6. Hosted by the U.S. Forest Service, the event invites the public to explore the prairie’s trail system while learning about restoration, conservation and recreation efforts. The open house will include interpretive stations at multiple locations. Attendees can hike, bike or drive from trailhead to trailhead to learn about prairie restoration, the bison project, recreation opportunities, and the role agriculture and grazing play in restoration efforts. Family activities and the Illinois Natural History Survey Traveling Science Center will also be featured at the Welcome Center.

“National Trails Day and our 30th anniversary are great opportunities for us to showcase the tremendous work that has been done on Midewin over the past decades to transform this place from an ammunition plant into the multifaceted public land it is today,” says Prairie Supervisor Robert West.

Location: 30239 S. State Rte. 53, Wilmington. For more information, visit fs.usda.gov/r09/midewin.

Turn Any Patio Into a Pollinator Haven

Container Plantings for Bees, Butterflies and Hummingbirds

by Jacob Burns

Ayard is not required to support pollinators. A few thoughtfully planted pots can turn a patio or balcony into a reliable source of nectar and pollen from late spring through fall. Even a small grouping can serve as a stopping point for visitors moving through the landscape. With the right plant choices and arrangement, compact spaces can provide meaningful support for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Pollinators don’t experience plantings the way we do. They respond to clear signals: bold color, accessible blooms and repetition. A single plant tucked into a pot may go unnoticed, but grouping the same variety together, or repeating it across containers, creates a visible target.

Clustering containers strengthens visual impact and, more importantly, allows pollinators to forage efficiently from one planting to the next. Container size and placement should support that same function. Larger pots, at least 14 to 18 inches wide, create more substantial plantings that are easier to locate and revisit, especially on patios and balconies where smaller containers dry out quickly and can stress plants.

Each pot should function as a small composition rather than a single specimen. Taller selections anchor the center or back, while lower, spreading plants fill in around them and soften the edges, creating a layered planting that guides movement through the container.

Because these spaces are exposed, soil dries out more quickly than in-ground beds, making regular watering essential. A high-quality potting mix and good drainage support healthy root systems, while occasional deadheading and light feeding help extend bloom time and keep plants actively flowering.

With the structure in place, plant selection becomes straightforward. Start with varieties that are easy to find at garden centers and observe which ones are already being visited, as these are often the most dependable performers. Focus on plants with simple, single blooms, as highly bred double forms can restrict access to nectar and pollen. By combining perennials that flower across a long season with reliable annuals, it’s possible to maintain a continuous display and encourage repeat visits.

Many perennials support both bees and butterflies while giving container plantings structure and continuity through the season. Selections such as lesser calamint (Clinopodium nepeta), ‘Butterfly Blue’ pincushion flower, ‘Autumn Fire’ stonecrop, and native plants including Agastache, Echinacea and Gaura create a lasting framework within a planting. Lesser calamint creates a fine cloud of small blooms that draws constant activity, while the pincushion flower offers easily reached, pollen- and nectar-rich centers. Agastache and Gaura introduce height and movement, and Echinacea contributes bold, central cones surrounded by showy rays that draw frequent visits. The stonecrop adds succulent structure and becomes especially valuable later in the season.

Annuals help fill gaps and maintain continuity within a container. ‘Monarch Magic’ floss flower, zinnia (Zinnia marylandica), Lantana and Verbena all perform well in pots and are readily visited. The floss flower forms soft mounds of fuzzy blue flowers that attract steady activity, while zinnia offers broad, daisy-like landing surfaces. Lantana and Verbena produce tight clusters of small flowers that support quick, efficient feeding. These plants also tolerate heat and exposure, making them especially useful on patios and balconies where conditions can be more intense.

To attract hummingbirds, include tubular flowers suited to hovering visitors. Firecracker plant (Cuphea ignea), flowering tobacco (Nicotiana x sanderae), million bells (Calibrachoa) and annual forms of Salvia provide a long season of color and nectar. Firecracker plant offers narrow orange blooms that hummingbirds can return to repeatedly, while flowering tobacco provides softly scented, elongated flowers that bloom both day and night. Million bells trails along the edges of containers like mini petunias, placing flowers at multiple levels and keeping color for months. Salvia is among the most reliable, producing upright spikes that continue flowering through much of the season.

With a mix of plants that bloom over a long period, repeated groupings and accessible flower forms, even a small patio or balcony can become a dependable resource for pollinators. Over time, these spaces settle into the daily rhythm of bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Jacob Burns is curator of plant collections at the Chicago Botanic Garden, in Glencoe, where 2.7 million plants make up the permanent collection. His work includes sourcing and diversifying plants, conducting collections-based research, and sharing technical expertise with the public and professionals. For more information, visit ChicagoBotanic.org

Plant Picks for a Pollinator Patio

Bees and Butterflies

• Coneflower (Echinacea)

• Hyssop (Agastache)

• Lesser calamint (Clinopodium nepeta)

• Pincushion flower (Scabiosa columbaria ‘Butterfly Blue’)

Hummingbirds

• Firecracker plant (Cuphea ignea)

• Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana x sanderae)

• Million bells (Calibrachoa)

• Salvia (Salvia)

Season-Long Color

• Floss flower (Ageratum houstonianum ‘Monarch Magic’)

• Lantana (Lantana)

• Verbena (Verbena)

• Zinnia (Zinnia marylandica)

The Resurgence of Rucking

An Ancient Activity for Modern Fitness

by Zak Logan

Rucking, or walking with a weighted backpack, has ancient military origins dating back to the Roman Empire, when soldiers carried survival and fighting equipment over long distances. But even before recorded history, humans have carried heavy loads to survive. More recently, rucking has become a popular workout, combining strength training with low-impact endurance, improving back strength and core stability without the need for heavy barbells or repetitive exercises.

Ruck walks, especially on varied terrain, promote heart health while being gentler on joints than running. It can enhance bone density, preserve muscle mass and support metabolic health without causing burnout. The rise of group ruck events, community meetups and local outdoor ruck clubs adds a social element, helping participants stay

consistent and avoid the isolation common in typical fitness routines.

Reaping the Benefits

“Rucking sits in that sweet spot between cardio and strength training. Most cardio options give you one or the other. Rucking gives you both in a single session,” says Simon Michel, founder of Ruckaway, a gear company in Adelaide, South Australia. “Carrying a weighted pack activates muscles all over the body, which can preserve or even slightly increase muscle mass. Rucking burns meaningfully more calories than regular walking, and that gap grows significantly with more weight, a faster pace and hilly terrain.”

Rucking effectively challenges the lateral core-stabilizing muscles, including the quadratus lumborum, a key lumbar spine

stabilizer. Stuart McGill, a leading expert in back pain and the chief scientific officer for BackFitPro, recommends rucking for chronic back pain due to its strengthening effect on the erector spinae muscles, which help maintain an upright posture. According to McGill, “Properly programmed rucking, which carefully manages distance, speed, load and rest intervals, can effectively address endurance deficit,” a common, but often overlooked factor in back pain not caused by muscle weakness. In other words, rucking builds endurance while strengthening the core, hips and back, creating resilience in the spine.

Gearing Up

For beginners wanting to try rucking before buying official gear, Michel recommends using a sturdy backpack with heavy items such as textbooks, dumbbells or even bricks wrapped in a towel. “The main advantage of a dedicated rucking backpack is the built-in weight compartment designed to hold plates flat against your upper back, high between the shoulder blades, which is exactly where you want the load to sit,” he explains. “On a regular backpack the weight shifts around and hangs low, pulling you backward and straining your lower back.” Also, a proper rucking pack is made from materials that can withstand weights that would destroy a regular backpack over time.

For weight, Michel suggests iron rucking plates: “They’re flat, they don’t shift mid-ruck, and you add them incrementally as your fitness builds.” Good footwear is essential. He recommends trail runners or lightweight hiking boots for varied terrain, and high-cushioned trainers for pavement. Avoid flat gym shoes that offer no support under load.

Placing the pack load correctly is crucial. “If the terrain is uneven and undulating, then carry the load lower in the pack, tight to the lumbar spine,” says Michel. “For flat terrain, the load can be higher to balance the upper body center of mass over the hips.”

Building Endurance

The body needs time to adapt to carrying a load. Anyone with health concerns, including knee problems or osteoporosis, should consult a physician before rucking. Michel advises, “Start lighter [weight] and shorter [distance] than you think you need to, regardless of fitness level. Loading up too heavy too soon is how people get stress fractures.” For beginners, he suggests carrying about 10 percent of body weight. “If you weigh 175 pounds, begin with around 18 pounds. Early on, the goal is to nail your form and let your body adapt to the carrying load, not to max out,” he says. “Once three to four miles feels comfortable, add weight in increments roughly every two weeks.”

Rucking two times per week is a solid starting point, gradually increasing to every other day as the body adapts. Modern rucking pioneer Michael Easter argued in the book The Comfort Crisis that the human body evolved to walk, run and carry. McGill points out that carrying is a fundamental life task, whether it’s firewood or groceries. “Rucking is not a trend invented by a marketing department,” says Michel. “It’s just humans doing what humans have always done, with a bit more intentionality.”

Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic health and getting back to basics.

The Facts About Low Testosterone

What Every Man Should Know

by Marlaina Donato

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), available as injections, patches, gels, pills and implant pellets, was a global market worth nearly $2 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach nearly $3 billion by 2032, according to Allied Market Research. Yet, TRT is often misused for symptoms like fatigue or for athletic enhancement, when it is actually meant to treat clinically diagnosed low testosterone.

While this pivotal sex hormone is responsible for male puberty, sperm production and healthy libido, it also acts as a critical metabolic regulator and driving force behind physical energy, healthy muscle mass, bone density, red blood cell production and mood regulation. When men experience a decline in performance—whether at work, in the gym or in the bedroom—it may be easy to assume that low testosterone levels

are to blame, but the misuse or overuse of TRT places users at risk for undesirable side effects.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the potential risks of TRT include: worsening sleep apnea; skin reactions, including acne; noncancerous growth of the prostate and growth of an existing prostate cancer; enlargement of the breasts; a reduction of sperm production; and overproduction of red blood cells, which could lead to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. In addition, according to a 2018 study in the World Journal of Men’s Health, TRT can cause infertility.

Reaching the Correct Diagnosis

The American Urological Association defines low testosterone as a total blood serum level below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) on at least two separate early morning tests, accompanied by symptoms like low sex drive and performance, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat and depression.

“Many men are seeking TRT to treat nonspecific symptoms like general fatigue, weight gain or a slight dip in motivation—issues that are often the result of lifestyle factors, rather than low testosterone,” says Dr. Joel Fuhrman, president of the Nutritional Research Foundation and the author of several books, including Eat for Life and Eat to Live Cookbook. In light of the trend of TRT over-prescription and the considerable risks, Fuhrman stresses the

importance of considering effective natural methods to restore hormonal balance.

Men can experience a decline in their testosterone levels for reasons beyond testosterone deficiency. “Thyroid problems, vitamin D deficiency, high prolactin [hormone], chronic stress, certain medications, opioids and antidepressants all suppress testosterone or mimic its symptoms. Run a full panel before assuming it’s your testosterone. You might be chasing the wrong problem,” advises Nelson Vergel, a hormone therapy researcher, men’s health educator and creator of ExcelMale.com, an online men’s health and TRT forum.

Vergel highlights the devastating effects of chronic unresolved stress, which “tells the brain to dial back testosterone production. It’s a survival mechanism; your body prioritizes threat-response over reproduction. It makes sense in the short term, but it’s devastating long-term.”

Raymond Wohl, the medical director of Chicago Male Clinic, in Chicago, says, “A decline in performance, libido or confidence is often an early warning sign of underlying issues such as elevated stress, reduced blood flow, hormonal imbalance or metabolic dysfunction.” Men are often surprised to

discover that improvements in energy, sleep, weight management and mood frequently accompany enhanced sexual performance. Wohl emphasizes, “Sexual health is not separate—it’s a powerful indicator of total

wellness. We recommend TRT only after a thorough evaluation, including lab work, symptom analysis and lifestyle review.”

Functional medicine specialist and men’s health coach Dr. Andreas Boettcher, in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, also recommends a comprehensive approach. “You need to look at the full hormonal picture, including cortisol patterns across the day; levels of DHEA-sulfate, pregnenolone, estradiol and prolactin; thyroid function, including free T3 conversion; and insulin markers,” he explains, naming multiple hormones besides testosterone.

Addressing the gut-hormone axis—the network involving the gastrointestinal tract, gut microbiome and endocrine system—is also high on Boettcher’s radar. “Hormone metabolism, balance and excretion are deeply dependent on your gut,” he points out. “The gut microbiome influences the signaling of virtually every hormone in the body, but

the gut-hormone axis is a two-way communication highway, and when it breaks down—through gut permeability, dysbiosis [imbalance of gut flora] or chronic inflammation, hormone balance becomes nearly impossible to achieve, regardless of what else you do.”

Boettcher attests that approximately 80 percent of men receiving hormonal support no longer need TRT once the underlying factors are adequately addressed. Given the right environment, he explains, the endocrine system begins production at levels that restore vitality, energy, lean muscle mass and libido. During his mid-to-late 40s, Boettcher quadrupled his testosterone levels without resorting to TRT or shortcuts. Now approaching 60, he maintains a single-digit body fat percentage, which he attributes to consistent daily choices. He asserts that men are biologically designed to be lean, strong and metabolically healthy well into the latter half of life.

Testosterone Disruptors and Supporters

Vergel reports that a significant portion of his patients that were convinced they had low testosterone turned out to have undiagnosed sleep apnea. “Just one week of sleeping only five hours a night drops testosterone by 10 to 15 percent in otherwise healthy men,” he says. “That’s not trivial. Everything else you’re doing—diet, training or supplements—gets undermined if you’re chronically sleep-deprived. Fix the sleep, and testosterone often comes back on its own.”

Psychological factors should also be

considered. “Men who have carried unaddressed trauma for years often look hormonally like someone 15 to 20 years older with lower testosterone, lower DHEA [a testosterone precursor], disrupted sleep and blunted growth hormone,” says Vergel. “No dose of TRT fully compensates for an unresolved psychological load. You have to work both sides.”

Boettcher emphasizes the role of alcohol as an underestimated and significant contributor to hormonal anomalies. “Even moderate, consistent alcohol consumption impairs liver function, and your liver is the primary site of estrogen clearance,” he explains. “Disrupt that clearance and estrogen accumulates, testosterone declines and the hormonal balance tips in exactly the wrong direction.”

Boettcher also highlights the potential damage caused by Ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter medication. Over time, chronic use can damage the gut lining, impair nutrient absorption and disrupt the raw materials the body needs to produce hormones.

Before making a lifelong commitment to hormone therapy, Fuhrman believes that most men can significantly improve their

bioavailable testosterone levels by reducing body fat. “Adipose tissue contains high levels of the enzyme aromatase, which converts your existing testosterone into estrogen. Losing weight keeps your natural testosterone in circulation.”

He recommends resistance training, specifically compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, bench presses and curls to trigger a metabolic and hormonal signaling environment. He also suggests a diet rich in green salads and vegetables, including broccoli, kale and arugula; polyphenol-rich foods such as beans to promote a healthy gut microbiome; and omega-3-rich nuts and seeds (walnuts, chia, flax and sesame seeds) to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.

Vergel cautions against ultra-processed food and excessive sugar consumption, which contribute to abdominal fat accumulation. He emphasizes the importance of clean protein and healthy dietary fats. “Don’t fear fat,” he remarks. “Testosterone is synthesized from cholesterol, so olive oil, eggs, avocados and quality meat protein aren’t your enemies.”

Vitality at Any Age

Ultimately, feeling well enough to live life to the fullest is not exclusive to a fortunate few. Vergel asserts, “The men I’ve seen most vital in their 60s and 70s are the ones who didn’t accept decline as inevitable. They asked questions, found good doctors and stayed in the game.”

Wohl offers hope and inspiration, saying, “Aging is inevitable, but decline is not. Sexual health does not have an expiration date. With the right interventions, men can maintain, and often regain, high levels of vitality well into later decades. Our oldest patient is 84 and still thriving.”

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodsmoke.com.

Smarter Summer Grilling

Making Barbecue More Flavorful and Healthy

by Maya Whitman

Summer would not be the same without dinner on the grill. For many Americans, backyard barbecuing is revered as an art form. In recent years, the classic menu of sizzling meats and charred corn on the cob has expanded to include healthier options such as plant-forward burgers, gut-friendly marinades and anti-inflammatory approaches that lower smoke points and use antioxidant-rich herbs and spices to reduce the formation of cancer-causing compounds.

Despite some evidence of an increased risk for colorectal, prostate and pancreatic cancer from high consumption of barbecued, well-done and fried foods, research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food

Chemistry in 2018 highlights an increase of good gut bacteria from grilling (and roasting) compared to less heat-intense forms of cooking. Swapping out bottled sauces with questionable ingredients for healthy homemade marinades, avoiding blackened meats and embracing a broader food spectrum will lower health risks while satisfying every palate.

Mouthwatering Enhancements

“Rather than only sticking with the typical hot dogs or burgers at your next barbecue, try introducing some creativity into the mix,” recommends Anne Mauney, a registered dietitian in Washington, D.C., and founder of the FannetasticFood.com recipe blog.

“One of my favorite grilled meals is shrimp

skewers with chimichurri [made with finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes]. The chimichurri does double duty as a marinade and sauce, and it’s incredibly fresh and delicious.”

One of her favorite things to do is to serve proteins on ample salads, such as her Summer Grilled Corn and Peach Salad With Chicken on a bed of spring mix lettuce. The corn, peaches and chicken are all grilled, and the lightly sweet dressing (and marinade) is made with honey, lime and fresh cilantro.

For traditionalists that love grilled burgers, Mauney suggests adding chopped red bell peppers or shallots to healthier, leaner meats like grass-fed ground beef, turkey or chicken. She also likes introducing finely diced mushrooms into a beef burger patty to increase nutrient density (fiber plus vitamins) while making it more tender and juicy.

Meatless Options

Plant-based chef Julia Dunaway, in Azle, Texas, is influenced by her mother’s Japanese heritage and cooking style, which included grilled ingredients and an unforgettable homemade teriyaki sauce. Dunaway’s black bean burger cooked on the grill, griddle or grill pan, is topped with cashew cheese sauce and the usual burger toppings on a whole-grain bun. “This burger, served with grilled vegetables and even grilled potato slices, is better than any meat-heavy cookout,” she asserts.

Other grilled favorites include Tex-Mex vegetable fajitas, large marinated mushrooms, zucchini and corn on the cob. Grilling eggplant sprinkled with cumin, asparagus with fresh garlic and stone fruits like peaches, plums and nectarines with cinnamon or ground cloves are delicious ways to pile anti-inflammatory goodness onto summer plates.

Healthy, Flavor-Boosting Hacks

According to Oncology Nursing News, grilling meat at high temperatures or over an open flame can produce cancer-causing substances called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). To reduce the risk of carcinogen formation, cooking over indirect heat is recommended. Eating charred meat should be avoided. Marinating meat for 20 to 30 minutes before cooking can also keep the surface of the meat from getting too hot. Adding antioxidant- and polyphenol-rich herbs like basil, rosemary and mint along with citrus juices or vinegar will provide great flavor, as well as disease-fighting nutrients.

When brushing ingredients with oil, avocado oil is recommended for its health benefits and high smoke point. Olive oil is also nutrient-dense, flavorful and anti-inflammatory. Dunaway’s favorite marinade replaces oil with tahini, a sesame-seed paste, and incorporates plenty of herbs and spices with vegetable broth to keeps vegetables moist throughout grilling.

“I use a gas grill with a large grilling surface, making sure it is very clean. Heating the grill on high for several minutes and cleaning the grates is essential. The marinated vegetables and tofu won’t stick on a clean grill,” Dunaway explains. “Once clean, reduce the heat to medium to avoid charring, while still getting a light grill mark. Just plan to cook the vegetables on a lower heat for a longer time so they are tender and cooked throughout.”

Jazzing things up with probiotic-rich sides, including colorful slaws and fermented kimchi or kraut adds another healthy, tasty dimension. Swap everyday potatoes for sweet potatoes and drizzle with a tangerine vinaigrette for a different twist on potato salad or toss chickpeas with kalamata olives and feta. Creative pairings are the heart of a good grill, and the sky’s the limit.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

THE BEST BLACK BEAN BURGERS

YIELD:

8 BURGERS

1 cup oats

1 cup walnut pieces

1 cup red onion, finely chopped

⅔ cup cremini mushrooms, chopped

½ cup red bell pepper, chopped

½ cup carrots, diced

2 Tbsp jalapeño peppers, chopped

3 cups home-cooked black beans (or 2 cans, rinsed and drained)

2 Tbsp ground flaxseeds

2 Tbsp nutritional yeast

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

2 tsp seasoning blend (such as Kirkland Signature No Salt Seasoning)

2 tsp low sodium soy sauce

1 tsp kosher salt

1 cup cooked brown rice

Pulse the oats and walnuts in a food processor until finely ground. Set aside.

In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, sauté the onion, mushrooms, bell peppers, carrots and jalapeño peppers until lightly browned. Add a little water. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.

Add the beans to the walnut and oat mixture in the food processor along with the ground flaxseeds, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, seasoning blend, soy sauce and salt. Pulse a few times. Use a silicone spatula to distribute the ingredients and pulse again once or twice. Keep some of the beans chunky.

Remove the mixture from the food processor, add the cooked brown rice and mix well with the spatula. Divide into 8 patties using a ½ cup measuring cup. Place the patties on a cleaned grill, on indirect heat (medium), and cook for 10 minutes on each side.

Serve on whole-grain buns with any desired toppings such as lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, onions, avocado and condiments like ketchup or mustard.

Recipe courtesy of Chef Julia Dunaway.

ALL-PURPOSE FRESH GINGER, CILANTRO AND CHILE PEPPER MARINADE

This marinade is ideal for use with vegetables and meats either on the grill or in the oven.

YIELD:

⅓ TO ½ CUP

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2 limes, juiced

2 Tbsp liquid aminos or tamari

2 Tbsp maple syrup

¼ tsp smoked salt

1 dried whole chili pepper, halved

1 large raw garlic clove, crushed

2 raw shallots, quartered or chopped

1 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup or small bowl and stir well. Marinate meats for up to 24 hours or vegetables for half an hour. Grill as usual.

Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.

ILFMA Appoints Libby Ervin as New Executive Director

The Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA) is pleased to announce that Libby Ervin i s its new executive director.

As ILFMA board president since 2023, Ervin has worked closely with the board on strategic planning, expanding membership, navigating budget challenges, and strengthening partnerships with state agencies and funders. These experiences have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of ILFMA’s operations, finances and statewide landscape, as well as the relationships and credibility needed to advance the organization’s priorities at the local, regional and state levels.

Ervin brings eight years of professional experience in nonprofit management, food systems, agriculture and community development. Ervin and her husband are farmers and run Glaciers End, a specialty food store in downtown Marion. She has vended at several farmers markets across the state, served as a farmers market manager and currently manages the Southern Illinois Link Hub under Food Works, where she supports 11 Southern Illinois farmers markets.

The ILFMA board expressed strong confidence in Ervin’s leadership. “Libby’s organizational knowledge, relationships and commitment to ILFMA’s mission make her an exceptional leader for this next chapter,” the board said.

The board also extended its sincere gratitude to Janie Maxwell for her service as executive director, noting that her leadership has strengthened the organization and laid a strong foundation for the years ahead.

For more information about ILFMA, visit ilfma.org.

It’s June and Farmers Market Season Is Busting Out All Over

by Bob Benenson

Ah, the glories of Chicagoland’s peak outdoor farmers market season. For many of us fervent local food fans, this is the most wonderful time of the year (with the possible exception of the Christmas season).

Local Food Forum (LocalFoodForum.com) maintains its Farmers Market Tracker, a convenient guide for finding markets across the region. The tracker lists markets by day of the week and is updated weekly. The Illinois Farmers Market Association also offers its Find A Market directory on its website (ilfma.org/find-a-market).

This year, the tracker lists 125 markets. At the end of May, 54 outdoor markets were open. By the end of June, that number will have more than doubled, leaving just a handful of short-season markets to open in July. And we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the fruits and veggies of our region’s farms, since the vast majority stay open at least through September, with a few extending all the way to the cusp of Thanksgiving.

Most of the region’s markets are open on Saturdays or Sundays, the most popular local food shopping days. But a substantial number of markets are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays, with smaller numbers serving customers on Mondays and Fridays.

In other words, by the height of the season, every day of the week will have multiple markets open somewhere across the greater Chicago region.

Expectations for market farmstands in June vary based on our region’s capricious spring weather patterns. According to the University of Illinois Extension, asparagus—the most popular early-season crop in the area—usually hangs on through mid-June. In years with asparagus-unfriendly weather, it could tap out earlier, while in friendlier weather, it could carry on until around July 4. This year, there is plenty for everyone that likes it, with many markets exceeding expectations by a mile.

The same reasoning applies to strawberries. The first major fruit crop to hit Chicago markets usually peaks in June, but whether we get to enjoy the red berries for a few weeks or a few days depends largely

on weather conditions. On the other hand, early-season blueberries have been known to join the market party by late June, but typically their season runs July through August.

But remember, every growing season is at least a little bit different. Field tomatoes, one of the most longed-for crops, are highly weather-dependent, and a June start could be very optimistic. Yet, improved season-extension practices and newer varieties have enabled some growers to bring crops such as cucumbers and tomatoes to market much earlier than was common a decade ago.

Don’t forget that June is only the start of peak growing season. When the month ends, most of us will still be waiting on the region’s famous sweet corn, stone fruits such as peaches, summer apples and maybe those finicky field tomatoes.

Also, it’s important to remember that the Chicago foodshed spans roughly 200 miles from north to south, covering major portions of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana. Crop seasons usually start earlier and end earlier in the southern region compared with the northern region, which means timing of crop arrivals and departures at favorite local markets can vary. Southwestern Michigan microclimates can also affect crop arrival dates.

It’s all part of the great adventure of shopping for local food.

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.

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Sleep Health for Men

Foundational Habits for a Better Life

by Hannah Tytus

"Wherever you want to make improvements in your life, whether it is with your health, your job performance or your relationships—sleep can be part of that,” says Catherine Darley, ND, an integrative sleep specialist and founder of SkilledSleeper.com.

Better sleep enhances nearly every aspect of life, yet many men ignore the subject entirely. “There’s a lack of information about sleep health in men’s spaces,” Darley laments. “Subjectively, men have fewer complaints than women do about their sleep, but on some objective measures, men sleep worse.” Most people need between seven and nine hours of shuteye nightly, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 37 percent of men fall short.

Effects of Poor Sleep

Precipitous Aging: “Midlife men have higher rates of obstructive sleep apnea, which negatively affects heart health and significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart attack,” says Darley. “Alzheimer’s risk, arthritis and many physical and digestive complaints are worse when sleep is disordered. During sleep, the brain undergoes vital nightly maintenance, clearing beta amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s. A way to hedge against dementia is to get good sleep now.”

Hormonal Issues: Hormones are linked to sleep quality. “During stage 3 sleep (also known as deep sleep) 75 to 80 percent of our growth hormone is secreted, which supports muscle repair and recovery. Exercise improves your deep sleep, helping

keep your muscle mass,” Darley explains. “Disrupted sleep from apnea, insomnia or irregular schedules can lower testosterone, causing issues like erectile dysfunction.” A 2020 study in Translational Andrology and Urology reported that older men with sleep disorders exhibited a higher risk of erectile dysfunction.

Mental Health Strain: Poor sleep often leads to mental health issues. “Anxiety, loneliness, depression and suicidality are worse when a person isn’t sleeping well,” Darley asserts. Research supports this: a 2021 meta-analysis published in Sleep Medicine Reviews found that enhancing sleep quality significantly improved mental health indicators such as depression, anxiety and rumination.

Relationship Difficulties: “Emotional intelligence is partly based on how well you’re sleeping,” says Darley, noting that a person that hasn’t slept well will struggle to identify a partner’s subtle facial expressions, making it hard to determine if they are happy or angry. “Sleep-deprived people are also much more self-centered in their moral reasoning, causing them to become less flexible, more rule-based and pedantic,” she adds. When these patterns become habitual, they can harm important relationships.

Driving Accidents: “Sleep affects your balance, coordination and reaction time,” Darley says. A sleep deficit can be particularly unsafe if someone is behind the wheel. “If you are chronically sleep-restricted, you’re driving impaired. Compared to drunk driving, drowsy driving is much more likely to be fatal.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, crashes

caused by drowsy driving often involve a single driver running off the road at a high rate of speed with no evidence of braking.

Diminished Mental Acuity: Cognitive performance suffers when sleep is compromised, affecting everything from basic memory recall to complex problem-solving. According to Darley, even verbal fluency is affected, making simple conversations difficult and important dates easy to forget. Making matters worse, “We become unaware of how impaired we actually are,” she points out. “After several nights of poor sleep, we say, ‘I think I’m getting used to this,’ even though we are still impaired.”

Resetting Our Internal Clock

Most people adapt to sleep deprivation and may not realize what their true sleep requirements are. Darley suggests the “10 by 10 test”, which involves spending 10 hours in bed for 10 consecutive nights in a dark, quiet room to determine how much sleep the body naturally needs. “After discovering how much sleep your body needs, the next step is scheduling it into your life,” she counsels. “Consistency is crucial. Increased sleep variability relates to mortality.” Aim for consistent sleep with no more than a 30-minute variation in bedtime and wake time, and no more than a one-hour difference in total sleep duration throughout the week.

Our circadian rhythm is the body’s internal 24-hour clock that regulates sleepiness and alertness. It is primarily influenced by light exposure. Morning sunlight suppresses melatonin—the hormone that induces sleep—while darkness triggers its release.

According to Darley, we suffer from what she calls a “darkness deficiency” that confuses the body’s sleep signals. “We’re suppressing our melatonin until bedtime with screens and LED light,” she explains.

To counteract this, she recommends creating a “sunset experience” at home by reducing light to the equivalent of 10 candles’ worth of yellow-hued light one to two hours before bed. The bedroom should be very dark, for which Darley offers a simple test. “If you can hold your hand out at arm’s length and see your fingers wiggling, that’s enough light to suppress your melatonin, keeping you awake,” she says.

Other habits support a healthy sleep rhythm. Exercise earlier in the day helps regulate the body clock. Sleep masks and blackout curtains can reduce light pollution in urban areas. Limiting alcohol and avoiding caffeine in the evening prevents disruptions. A cooler bedroom also promotes better sleep. There are about 60 sleep disorders, say Darley. If sleep does not improve after a month of these lifestyle adjustments, she recommends seeing a professional. Sleep is not a luxury—it’s essential.

Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring the cultural underpinnings of health.

Energy Healing

METAMORPHIC RISE, LLC

Monica Rundell for in-person or virtual appointments

Usui Reiki Master with crystals & vibrational sound healing, Certified NLP and Hypnosis Practitioner, Psychic Medium Readings

0S165 Church St., Winfield, IL 60190 773-609-2326 call or text

MetamorphicRise.com

THE AGAPE HOUSE

Reiki, Intuitive Readings Reiki Shares, Sound Bath Meditations 630-294-5225

TheAgapeHouse1977@gmail.com

TheAgapeHouseHealing.com

THE CHAKRA SHOPPE CLASSES & HEALINGS

Chakra Analysis & Healing, Reiki, Sound Healing, Crystal Healing, Guided Imagery, Core Belief Sessions. 5034 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago 773-271-3054

ChakraShoppe.com

Energy Medicine

HEALING HANDS BY ROSE

Reiki Master, Mary Magdalene Reiki, Divine Feminine Energy, Usui, Holy Fire and Karuna Reiki Healing Energy. Serving NW Chicago, Park Ridge & nearby 847-630-0455

HealingHandsByRose.com

EESystem Therapy

HEALING LIGHT WELLNESS CENTER 24-unit EESystem Therapy for immune function, anti-aging, pain relief, detox & more 810 S. Buffalo Grove Rd. Buffalo Grove 224-481-2055

HealingLightWellnessCenter.com

When School’s Out, Mood Is In:

Creating a Happier Summer at Home

by Sara Chana Silverstein

Summer has finally arrived. Backpacks are tossed aside, lunchboxes are taking a break, and children are suddenly free from the schedules, tests and social pressures of the school year. While summer often feels carefree, many children carry a surprising amount of stress from the year that just ended. Long days in the classroom, academic pressure, busy routines and complicated social dynamics can quietly wear on even the most resilient kids.

That’s why summer is the perfect time to help children reset—emotionally and physically. With a slower pace, longer days and more time at home, it’s an ideal season for mothers to introduce gentle, natural remedies that support their children’s moods and overall well-being.

When mothers and caregivers learn simple natural tools, they gain confidence. They don’t feel helpless when a child is overwhelmed, anxious or run down. Instead, they have practical ways to help their children feel better.

And summer is the perfect classroom.

The Summer Herb Every Mom Should Know: Lemon Balm

One herb that stands out for summer is lemon balm. This gentle, lemon-scented herb has been used for centuries to support the nervous system and calm busy minds. It also has natural antiviral properties—something every mother appreciates when those mysterious summer sniffles appear.

Kids may be out of school, but drippy noses don’t always take a vacation.

A simple way to use lemon balm with children is to turn it into something they already love: ice pops. Brew a mild lemon balm tea, add some honey for children over the age of 1 if desired, allow it to cool and pour it into popsicle molds. Freeze, and suddenly there is a calming, immune-supportive summer treat that kids happily devour.

After a long day of swimming, camp and running around with friends, children sometimes have trouble settling down. Their bodies are tired, but their minds are still buzzing from the excitement of the day. Lemon balm tea in the evening can gently help take the edge off that “summer overstimulation” without making children groggy.

Think of it as nature’s gentle way of helping kids shift from adventure mode to bedtime mode.

When Kids Feel Stressed or Overwhelmed

Even during summer, children still experience stress and anxiety. Sometimes it shows up after a difficult school year. Sometimes it appears during transitions, new camps, social situations or changes in routine.

This is where another wonderful herb comes in: skullcap.

Skullcap is often used for children that feel tense, overwhelmed or emotionally wound up. It supports the nervous system and helps the body relax, but unlike many calming remedies, it does not make children sleepy.

Instead, it simply helps take the emotional “edge” off.

For children, skullcap is commonly used in tincture form. A few drops in grape juice can be an easy and effective way to support kids that feel anxious or overstimulated. Many parents notice that children simply feel calmer and more comfortable in their own skin.

The Summer First-Aid Hero

Of course, summer with kids also means scraped knees, bumped heads, and the occasional dramatic fall off a scooter or bike.

That’s why every mom should carry a small bottle of Arnica 30c in her bag. Arnica in homeopathic form is a classic remedy used for bumps, bruises

and minor injuries. It’s tiny, easy to carry and can be a lifesaver during busy summer outings at the park, playground or camp. Simply place three to five pellets on the child’s tongue straight from the cap and allow them to dissolve in the mouth.

Many mothers keep it in their purse, beach bag or car so it’s always within reach when a child suddenly appears with a new “battle wound.”

A Season for Learning

One of the gifts of summer is that it gives mothers time to explore and learn. During the school year, life moves quickly. But in summer, there’s space to experiment—trying a new herbal tea, learning how tinctures work or discovering simple remedies that support children’s moods and health. Because summer doesn’t just have to be a break from school. It can be a reset for the whole family.

Sara Chana Silverstein is a master herbalist, classical homeopath, and board-certified lactation consultant with more than 30 years of experience supporting women and families with natural health approaches. She is the author of the May 2026 release Moodtopia for Kids: Nurturing Emotional Wellness with Nature’s Remedies, available on Amazon and at other retailers. For more information, visit SaraChana.com.

Finding Meaning and Hope in Troubled Times

A Conversation With Jeffrey Rubin

by Sandra Yeyati

Jeffrey Rubin, Ph.D., is a psychoanalyst and a pioneering expert in meditative psychotherapy, which integrates Western psychotherapeutic modalities with Eastern meditative traditions. In practice since 1978, he treats patients in New York City and North Salem, New York. Rubin is an international lecturer and keynote speaker, as well as a faculty member at The American Institute of Psychoanalysis, The Object Relations Institute and the C.G. Jung Institute of New York. An author of eight books and numerous articles, his latest works include Meditative Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis: Pathways to Healing and Transformation and Psychotherapy Case Studies: Escaping the Prison You Didn’t Know You Were In.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of psychotherapy?

In most schools of Western psychotherapy, the emphasis is on identifying and addressing what is wrong with people. In my book The Good Life, I explain that we need a double focus—not just looking at what challenges us, but also exploring our untapped potential.

Psychotherapy is a search for meaning and self-awareness, as well as an inquiry into relationships as a vehicle for self-transformation. These are its strengths. In therapy, relationships tend to be carefully described and understood, looking into the complexities and obstacles.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of meditation?

Even if you practice with 100 people, meditation offers less insight into relationships compared to psychotherapy. It doesn’t focus on meaning. A woman once told me in therapy, “I don’t want to travel to Tibet to learn about Buddhism,” then paused, “I said ‘don’t’—is that a Freudian slip? Maybe I’m going to Tibet only because my boyfriend wants to go.” A meditation teacher would dismiss her slip as a glitch, while a psychotherapist might see it as symptomatic. As an adult, you have to learn to distinguish between symptoms and glitches, and one of the dangers of meditation is that you often stay on the surface of things.

As for strengths, meditation teaches you to greet the present moment freshly with minimal biases, minimal expectations, maximal openness and the innocence of a child. Meditation also reduces self-criticism, and fosters self-compassion and acceptance.

What is meditative psychotherapy?

It is what I call the marriage of mindfulness and meaning. You need to be present and centered like a meditative discipline teaches, while also willing to investigate and inquire into things. Analyzing your feelings is difficult if you’re emotionally reactive. Meditation allows you to explore emotions, delve deeper, form thoughts and notice details. I call this “expanding inner space.” Inner space is not a place, but a capacity that you develop to become centered, reflect and broaden your perspective. Once you cultivate this capacity, psychotherapeutic investigation becomes easier.

What symptoms are you seeing more often in therapy sessions?

Greater alienation, powerlessness and loneliness. People are overwhelmed, foggy-headed and frazzled. As we face relentless tough news cycles, economic uncertainty and social divisions, people act like pinballs in a machine, ricocheting off walls and lashing out with road rage and impatience towards loved ones.

I think we’re seeking cotton-candy self-care. People watch Law and Order reruns and isolate themselves because they’re overwhelmed, so anything becomes too much. They seek quick routes to peace, but it’s like empty carbs for the spirit. Tastes good, and the next second, you’re hungry for more.

The alternative is to sit with the uncomfortable feelings, which is a trainable ability. As we learn to sit with more discomfort, we become more patient and tolerant, allowing us to eliminate adversarial relationships and form closer connections with less friction and meanness.

How

can we learn to handle difficult emotions?

I call it equanimity training. Equanimity means accepting whatever happens with a calm, matter-of-factness. I’m okay if there’s pleasure; I’m okay if there’s pain. In The Art of Flourishing, I wrote about our obsession with happiness. Although it’s nice that people are trying to cultivate positive emotions, eliminating discomfort reduces our tolerance for tough times.

To expand your tolerance for uncomfortable feelings, start by focusing on less emotionally triggering things in your meditation practice. For example, learn to master sitting with increasingly uncomfortable sounds. Begin with a pleasant sound—hear it, let it wash over you. If your mind wanders, gently return your attention to the sound without judgment. Once you can do that, move to a neutral sound. Hear it. Let it wash over you. After mastering that, progress to an irritating sound, and eventually move to more challenging ones like a crying baby or a police siren.

Apply this practice to all five senses to develop presence, concentration and equanimity. Whether you’re observing a beautiful flower or a war-torn village, the skill set remains the same. You’re not numbing yourself; you’re experiencing without clinging or attachment. Simply let it wash over you and remain open to the next moment, greeting the present with freshness. You can then apply this to your emotions. If you’re scared, sit open to the experience, let it touch you and let it wash over you. This is a concrete way of calming ourselves.

What self-care measures do you recommend?

People have to live in two worlds simultaneously. They have to recognize what’s wrong and continue pursuing what they value. Keep chasing your passions, spending time in nature, connecting with life-spirited people and supporting older relatives. Stay active and eat healthy. Prioritize quality rest and strive for a meaningful life.

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.

Calendar of Events

Pride Month

Monday, June 1

Second Anniversary Celebration for Wild Onion Market – Thru June. 8am-9pm. Get a special 10% discount on all local products except produce during the special anniversary celebration the weekend of June 13-14. That celebration will feature music, goody bags and more. Owners get a 10% discount on local products for the whole week from June 6-14. Owners get a coupon that will give them $5 off any purchase during June. Everybody can shop at Wild Onion Market and become an owner if they want to invest in the store. Wild Onion Market, 7007 N Clark St, Chicago. WildOnionMarket.com

Tuesday, June 2

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

Wednesday, June 3

Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. Come talk about “greening” the future with others. Special presentations each month on a timely environmental topic or green business. 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

Relax & Restore: Guided Meditation + Reiki Flow into Summer – 7-8pm. Class blends guided meditation + Reiki energy healing to support deep relaxation and nervous system balance. Be guided in meditation by Tina Santana, while Kristen Rosenberg and Daniel Santana offer Reiki energy healing throughout the session. $35. First Congregational United Church of Christ, Elmhurst, 235 S Kenilworth Ave, Elmhurst. TheAgapeHouseHealing.com.

Spiritual Beginnings – 7-9pm. Your path to discover, awaken and build your spiritual foundation. $33. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Thursday, June 4

ONLINE: School Energy Webinar – 1011am. Join a free webinar to learn how your school district can reduce emissions and become carbon free. Zoom. GoGreenIllinois.org

Matt’s Movement with Tai Chi & Qigong – 7-8pm. Cultivate balance, strength and mental clarity in this beginner-friendly class, designed to help you relieve stress, build resilience and enhance your mood.

$30. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

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 wash over you. Experience rest, relaxation or a soothing meditative state. $30. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Energy Light Infusion Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Inner Haven, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. My-InnerHaven.com

Quantum Alignment – 7-9pm. With Eve. Step into a deeper understanding of how your energy, mindset, and awareness shape the reality you experience. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Friday, June 5

World Environment Day

Oneness Fest 2026 Weekend – June 5-7. A 3-day immersive festival featuring yoga, breathwork, meditation, energy healing, personal development and conscious living in a community-centered setting. Camp Tuckabatchee, 1973 N 35th Rd, Ottawa. AwakeOnenessTribe.org/onenessfest

Spring Pasture Release Breakfast – 8:3010:30am. Experience the joy. Come join us for one of my favorite times of year at the prairie. The horses have been cooped up for the winter months; the pastures have finally dried out, and the fresh fluorescent green grass is ripe for the munching. We will gather on our pasture deck as the horses’ excitement ramps up for the opportunity to run the stretch behind the barn to the fresh new spring grasses. $55. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com

Summer Kickoff Paddle – 4-6pm. We’ll provide all equipment for a relaxing paddle on the river. For intermediate-level kayakers. $20. McKinley Woods, Kerry Sheridan Grove, 25055 S Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by June 3: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Father’s Day Performance & Recovery Pop-In – 4-7pm. Family-friendly activities focused on wellness, recovery and community connection. Receive complimentary posture and foot scans and attend demonstrations. $50 SoftWave Therapy cycles, as well as 50% discounts on Normatec Compression sessions, BrainTap sessions and Neural HRV scans. Health Clarified, 2165A Shermer Rd, Northbrook. HealthClarifiedNow.com

Saturday, June 6

Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing –8am-12pm. See the dazzling spectacle of nesting herons, egrets and cormorants, and maybe even see one of our resident bald eagles. Volunteers and staff at the viewing platform and visitor center to answer questions. Free. Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, 23202 W Renwick Rd, Plainfield. 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie 30th Anniversary Open House – 9am-1pm. Hosted by the U.S. Forest Service, the event invites the public to explore the prairie’s trail system while learning about restoration, conservation and recreation efforts. 30239 S State Rte 53, Wilmington. fs.usda.gov/r09/midewin

Trail Safety: Hydration Station – 10am1pm. Join our outreach team and police for some safety tips and grab some electrolytes packets. Free. Old Plank Road Trail, Haven Avenue Access, New Lenox. 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org

Smash Burger Grillin’ – 12:30-3:30pm. With Chef John. We are firing up the grill for a party on the patio. Grab a juicy smash burger, chips and a drink for $10 featuring Chef John’s spices. There will be vegetarian options available. Food Shed Coop, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. FoodShed.coop.

What In Life Took Your Power Away? – 2-5pm. Restore your Solar Plexus, your Third Chakra. From inception to present, Randa Clark, Biofield Tuning practitioner, and Richard Popp, professional clairvoyant, work as a team to scan through the years and connect to disturbances that are deeply rooted in the solar plexus energy. $90/30 mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

An Angels & Intuition Workshop Series –3-5pm. With Jill Kempner. Clairfragrance: Receiving Divine Guidance in the Present Moment. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Sunday, June 7

Green Friends Montessori School at the Geneva French Market – 10am-2pm. Please visit our booth and learn about our authentic Montessori Education for 3-12-year-olds. Geneva French Market, South St & S 4th St, Geneva. 630-457-9178. GreenFriendsMontessori.com

Monday, June 8

World Oceans Day

Tuesday, June 9

Coral Triangle Day

Green Friends Montessori School in Elburn Summer Program – You are welcome to bring your child for half a day to explore our learning environment that nurtures curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning. Green Friends Montessori School, 0N905 M A Center Dr, Elburn. To schedule a visit: 630-457-9178. GreenFriendsMontessori.com.

Wednesday, June 10

Intro to Gardening for Wildlife –5-6:30pm. Learn about beginner-friendly strategies for getting started with native plants in your yard. Then take a tour of a conservation easement around the farm to see native plants in action and learn tips and tricks. Free. Tempest Farm, Crete. Register by June 5: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 3 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

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

Thursday, June 11

Song Birds in Glass: Introduction to Fused Glass – 5-7pm. Create 2 colorful, fused-glass bird plant pokes in this fun beginner-friendly class. Choose from a selection of precut glass pieces to design and assemble own whimsical birds. $25. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. Register: FoodShed.coop.

Plant-Based Yogurt & Jam Making –6-7:30pm. Learn step-by-step techniques for creamy, dairy-free yogurt. How to make a seasonal jam using fresh produce. Get tips on flavor combinations and storage. With a small, friendly group setting, there’s plenty of time to ask questions, practice new skills, and connect with other food lovers in our community. $40. Prairie Food Co-op, 837 S Westmore-Meyers Rd, Lombard. 630-339-2818. Registration required: PrairieFood.coop.

Human Herd Release – 6:30-8:30pm. Come release your inner playful side! What better time than Spring to gallop through a pasture and connect through laughter. After the human herd release we will enjoy a bonfire, drinks and something sweet. $15. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. Registration required: SoulfulPrairies.com

Summertime is always the best of what might be.

—Charles Bowden

Friday, June 12

Deep Rest: A Reiki & Sound Bath Experience – 7-8:30pm. June Theme: Rest Beneath the Summer Light. Through the soothing vibrations of sound healing, Jessiy Hawthorne will guide you into a deeply relaxed, meditative state using crystal singing bowls and other healing instruments. As you rest, reiki practitioners Tina and Dan Santana will offer gentle, hands-off energy work. $45. The Journeys Path, 946 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago. 630-473-0377. Registration required: TheJourneysPath.com

Saturday, June 13

Mercado de Intercambio: Refresh your Closet – 10am-2pm. Bring gently loved items and swap with a neighbor to reduce textile waste and refresh your closet. Southside Social, 4432 S Ashland Ave, Chicago. PlantChicago.org

Native Plant Sale – 10am-2pm. Shop a wide selection of native plants perfect for the pollinators in your life. Experts on hand to help you select plants and to answer questions. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. 815-722-9301. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Pollinator Party – 10am-2pm. Learn about the insects and the animals that perform the important task of pollinating plants, especially those that provide us with much of the food we eat. See live bats and learn about their roles in pollination. Free. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Rd, Romeoville. 815-722-9301. ReconnectWithNature.org

Arts on Sheridan – June 13-14. 10am-5pm. Explore a curated selection of art from talented artists across all mediums. Don’t miss out on this exciting new festival. Free. Highland Park, 484 Central Ave, Highland Park. Amdurproductions.com

Wild Onion Market Second Anniversary Celebration – 11am-5pm. All shoppers (non-owners included) can enjoy 10% off all local products, excluding produce. Wild Onion Market, 7007 N Clark St, Chicago. WildOnionMarket.com

Crystal Talk: Summer Solstice Energies –2-3:30pm. With Janel, crystal consultant and lightworker. Bring your questions about crystals and she will answer them. Learn how to tune into your higher knowing and intuition through working with crystals. We will be tuning into the energies of the Summer Solstice and the longest daylight of the year. $25. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Shamanic Art Journey – 2:30-4:30pm. With Melissa: Discover Your Spirit Animal, invites you into a creative and soulful experience of self-discovery through guided meditation, intuitive art, and spiritual exploration. In this immersive journey, connect with the energy and wisdom of your spirit animal. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Beat the Heat Twilight Hike – 7-8:30pm. Join a naturalistbfor an interpretive twilight hike. Listen for birds settling in, watch for bats overhead and more. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. Register by June 11: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Sunday, June 14

New Moon - Moon of Long Daylight Dog Admission Day – 7am-sunset. Also June 23, 3pm-sunset. An opportunity to explore The Morton Arboretum with canine family members. $7/dog plus general admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

Seed Ball Class – 1-2:30pm. Join Caron Wenzel of Blazing Star for a fun, hands-on workshop on creating native seed balls to support bees, butterflies and local pollinators. Learn about native flowers, soil-friendly gardening, and simple ways to add beauty to your yard. $10. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. Register: FoodShed.coop.

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

“New Moon in June”: 5-Year Anniversary & Wellness Fair – 2-5pm. Featuring local doctors and wellness professionals that will showcase offerings from colon hydrotherapy to personal training to nutrition and more. $10 suggested donation. Midwest Cleanse, 5962 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. 773-728-6800. MidwestCleanse.com

Monday, June 15

Al Hijra begins at sunset (Islam) Global Wind Day

Nature Photography Day

Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Mondays, June 15Aug 17. 10am-1pm. 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

Gong in the Grass – 6:15-7pm. The beautiful combination of nature and the sound of the gong brings a sense of calm as we share this experience together. When we are in an optimal state of physical and mental health, the systems in our body work in harmony. $15. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com

Tuesday, June 16

World Sea Turtle Day

SoulSync: Guided Hypnosis & Reiki for Deep Renewal – 7-8pm. June Theme: Nervous System Liberation. This month’s focus is on creating safety within the body so that stored tension, emotional residue and reactivity patterns can gently unwind and transform. $55. The Journeys Path, 946 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago. 630-473-0377. Registration required: TheJourneysPath.com.

Wednesday, June 17

World Day to Combat Desertification & Drought

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 3 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Illuminate Future of Healers – 6:30-8pm. 3rd Wed. A monthly networking gathering for holistic and integrative health professionals. Meetups aim to help local practitioners connect, collaborate and learn about different healing modalities. Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness, 1242 N Eola Rd, Ste F Aurora. More info: Tinyurl.com/IlluminateFuture

Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Wednesdays, June 17-Aug 19. 7-10pm. 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

Thursday, June 18

Summer Era Starts at the Reservoir – 4-6pm. It’s the perfect chance to try something new. Curious about kayaking? Try paddling with a free mini kayak overview with staff and more. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Peaceful Resonance – 5:30-7pm. Enjoy the calming combination of sound bath, guided mediation, stress-reduction ear seeds and reiki session. Presenters: Victoria Kowalska and Teri Calandra, LAc. $55 by June 1, $65. Inner Peace Psychological Care, 999 N Plaza Dr, Ste 380, Schaumburg. 847-230-4242. InnerPeacePsych.com

Native Plants for Small Spaces – 6:307:30pm. Native plants can bring beauty and ecological health to even the smallest spaces in your yard, but it’s vital to choose the right plants. Join TLC’s Sarah Michael to hear about her favorite native plants for small garden spaces. Will also cover maintenance tips. $5. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. Register: FoodShed.coop.

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Friday, June 19

Juneteenth

Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Touch –9am-4pm. Explore a range of trauma-conscious bodywork techniques that can be implemented in a range of body-centered care practices. Also investigate strategies we can implement to subtly shift any technique in any modality to accommodate a more trauma-informed perspective. 6 CEs. $180. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu

Evidential Spirit Art Portrait – 6-9pm. Karen Ziemek blends art with mediumship, and in this sacred experience allows Spirit to guide the creation of a portrait (sketch) that reflects the presence, personality and essence of loved ones on the other side. Each image is rendered with deep reverence and love, often revealing familiar features or recognizable energy from those in the spirit world. $50/30 mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

FireHorse Manifestation Activation –6-9pm. With energy healer Eve Muir-Wilson. The FireHorse is a powerful symbol of passion, forward motion and inspired action. Eve will work with FireHorse energy to help you align your intentions and energetically support what you want to create now. Receive a channeled light language activation. $55/30mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Summer Solstice Ceremony & Drum Circle – 6:30-9pm. Inner Haven, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. My-InnerHaven.com

Firefly 3K Fun Run – 8pm. Featuring a scenic, accessible course for all levels through the Arboretum’s tree and plant collections on the East Side. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

Saturday, June 20

World Refugee Day

Barefoot Shiatsu – June 20-21. 10am5pm. Mat work, integrating the use of feet, knees and elbows for the purpose of applying sustained pressure. Enjoy the freedom of using the whole body, learn strategies to take the burden off their thumbs and wrists, and learn deep and relaxing techniques to benefit a wide range of clients. 12 CEs. $300. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu.

House Hunters: Bluebird Edition – 1:303pm. Learn what kind of materials bluebirds make their nests out of, when they start nesting and the habits and rituals of bluebirds. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by June 17: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Leaf It to Me Hike – 2-3:30pm. Cure your leaf blindness by comparing many of the unique leaves along the trail. Start simply with shapes and sizes and move on to trickier identification with leaves on living plants. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by June 19: 815-722-9470 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Sunday, June 21

Father’s Day

Litha (Wiccan)

Midsummer’s Day

Summer Solstice

World Giraffe Day

1-Day Meditation Retreat: Deep Inner Listening – 10am-7:30pm. A day of deep inner listening an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and spend a day in self-reflection, deep inner listening and catch up with the inner world in a supportive group environment. The day consists of guided and silent meditations, discussions and inquiry into the art of inner observation. By donation. Camino Wellness Center, 401 S Milwaukee Ave, Ste 230, Wheeling. 224-300-0499. CaminoWellnessCenter.com

Monday, June 22

World Rainforest Day

Qigong: Five Animal Frolic: Monkey –9am-4pm. June brings the playful energy of the Monkey Frolic, associated with the summer season and the fire element. This light-hearted practice encourages spontaneity, joy and social connection. Learn the characteristics of Fire Element, balance out heart energy and practice to transform anxiety into calm and scatteredness into presence. 6 CEs. $180. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu

Tuesday, June 23

Dog Admission Day – 3pm-sunset. An opportunity to explore The Morton Arboretum with canine family members. $7/dog plus general admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

Awakening the Clairs Series Begins – 7-9pm. Inner Haven, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. My-InnerHaven.com

Wednesday, June 24

Men’s Yoga for Better Health – 6-7:15pm. See June 3 listing. Chicago Male Clinic, 4801 W Peterson Ave, Ste 506, Chicago. RSVP: 773-414-9900. ChicagoMaleClinic.com

Ocean of Light: WhaleBreathing & Reiki Journey – 7-8:30pm. June Theme: Breath of the Tides: Flow, Surrender & Expansion. A deeply immersive healing experience guided by WhaleBreathing and Reiki—two gentle yet powerful practices that support emotional release, nervous system regulation and energetic alignment. $48. The Journeys Path, 946 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago. 630-473-0377. TheJourneysPath.com

Thursday, June 25

Wilderness Wayfinders – 9:30-11am. Learn how to use a compass and map before we embark on an adventure through the woods. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. Register by June 23: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org

Summer Fun: Candle Making – 6-7:30pm. With Sprinkle Candles. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Friday, June 26

Zen Shiatsu Chicago 20th Anniversary –Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu

Community Pride Stroll to the Bridge –5:30-7:30pm. This hike centers LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies, creating a safe space where everyone can enjoy a breath of fresh air while enjoying being themselves. Free. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S Dutton Rd, Beecher. 708-946-2216. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Saturday, June 27

Millennium Art Festival – June 27-28. 10am-5pm. Get creative with 110 artists on your perfect summer day in the city with art, food and fun. Take a break with a cold beer or piña colada, and choose from a mix of food trucks and festival snacks. Enjoy the live music stage, face painting, Kid-Friendly Art Tent and Live Art Demos. Free. Downtown Chicago, 180 N Stetson Ave, Chicago. AmdurProductions.com

Green Friends Montessori School in Elburn Open House – 12-2pm. Explore our beautiful nature-based campus, meet our teachers and learn about our authentic Montessori programs for children ages 3-12, including preschool, kindergarten, elementary and extended childcare. Discover a learning environment that nurtures curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning. Green Friends Montessori School, 0N905 M A Center Dr, Elburn. 630-457-9178. GreenFriendsMontessori.com

Grillin’ on the Patio – 12-3pm. Kick off the holiday at the Food Shed for a fun pre-fourth of July patio barbecue. Enjoy hot dogs, brats or a vegetarian option, chips and a drink while listening to live music by Cassandra Vohs-Demann. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. FoodShed.coop.

Crystal Grids Workshop – 2-4pm. Experience the power of sending your intentions to the Universe with a crystal grid. In this experiential workshop conducted by Janel, crystal consultant, learn about the various types of crystal grids and how they can help you manifest your desires: basic grid construction, choosing crystals, which crystals are placed first, which are removed first, grid activation, how to clean a long-term grid and more. $50. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Sunday, June 28

Reiki II Training – 9am-4pm. Usui Reiki Level 2 Training offers powerful tools to enhance your healing journey for yourself and others. In this sacred and transformative one-day immersion, receive the next level of reiki attunement, be introduced to the sacred symbols and learn how to facilitate distance healing. With Reiki Master Teacher Tina Santana. $180. First Congregational United Church of Christ, 235 S Kenilworth Ave, Elmhurst. TheAgapeHouseHealing.com

Monday, June 29

Full Moon - Strawberry Moon, Berries Ripen Moon

Tuesday, June 30

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

SAVE THESE DATES

Friday, July 10

Quantum Healing for the Soul Retreat July 10-12

4-8:30pm, Fri; 9am-8:30pm, Sat; 9am-12pm, Sun. A weekend retreat focused on soul alignment, healing and personal transformation through holistic practices including energy healing, breathwork, meditation and journaling. $333 includes meals; lodging options available.

Golden Light Healing 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski 920-428-0588

GoldenLightHealing.net

Thursday, July 23

Peruvian Shamanism Training with Jose Luis Herrera – July 23-26 1:30pm, Thurs-1pm, Sun. Four-part training exploring Peruvian shamanic traditions. Participants create a medicine bundle (mesa) used as a map for transformation and healing. Additional sessions: Sept 10-13; Nov, 12-15. $799/session; meals included.

Golden Light Healing 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-428-0588

GoldenLightHealing.net

Saturday, July 25

Green Friends Montessori School in Elburn Open House 12-2pm

Explore our beautiful nature-based campus, meet our teachers and learn about our authentic Montessori programs for children ages 3-12, including preschool, kindergarten, elementary and extended childcare. Discover a learning environment that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Green Friends Montessori School 0N905 M A Center Dr, Elburn 630-457-9178

GreenFriendsMontessori.com

Sunday, July 26

Holistic Health Fair

10am-4pm

Explore holistic health and metaphysical topics, local natural health practitioners and service providers, energy workers, makers of natural products and a wide range of products and services. $5/online advance; $10/at door; $25/ keynote includes admission, advanced sales only.

Holiday Inn Chicago NW Crystal Lake Convention Center 800 S Illinois Rte 31, Crystal Lake HolisticHealthFair.org

Saturday, August 1

The Herbal Apprentice – Aug 1-2 9am-4pm 2-day intensive exploring the foundations of botanical medicine, combining practical application with the science and philosophy of herbalism. Topics include top North American herbs, herbal preparations, apothecary basics and natural approaches to modern stressors. Suitable for beginners and those with prior study. $333; lunch included. Lodging available.  Golden Light Healing 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski 920-428-0588

GoldenLightHealing.net

SAVE THESE DATES

Friday, August 7

Retreat with Swami Amritaswarupananda Aug 7-9

Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Amma’s senior most disciple, visits the Chicagoland area with a retreat and public program at MA Center Chicago. Get ready for uplifting spiritual events: inspiring spiritual talks, powerful bhajans (devotional music) and time with Swamiji.

MA Center Chicago 41W501, Keslinger Rd, Elburn 630-387-5077 na.amma.org/chicago

Saturday, August 8

Veggie Fest Chicago – Aug 8-9

Features more than 75 vendor booths, live music from Chicago-area bands, cooking demonstrations, expert speakers, children’s programming, an international food court, meditation sessions and yoga classes.

Danada South Park 2701 Navistar Cir, Lisle Sponsorship & vendor opportunities: 630-842-9229

VeggieFestChicago.org

Thursday, August 20

Mavis’ Ways – Aug 20-23

9:30am-5pm

Explore the mediumship teachings and legacy of Mavis Pittilla with Jean Else and Annie Gee. Learn practical approaches to deepening communication, evidence, presentation and service to Spirit. $799, lunch included. Lodging options available. Golden Light Healing 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski 920-428-0588 GoldenLightHealing.net

Friday, August 28

8-Day Yoga, Self-Inquiry & Meditation Retreat: This Being Human

This meditation retreat takes place near the beautiful Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, and focuses on emotional intelligence as an essential foundation in approaching meditation.

Kawoq Forest Retreat Center Lake Atitlán, Guatemala 224-300-0499

CaminoWellnessCenter.com

Saturday, September 12

TheosoFEST Mind, Body, Spirit Festival 10am-5pm

Includes talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic healing and more. Vegetarian food, a holistic marketplace showcasing more than 100 vendors, a festive Kids’ Korner, intuitive readings, labyrinth walks, tai chi and yoga, and more. Admission free, $5 parking.

Theosophical Society 1926 N Main St, Wheaton 630-668-1571 x 315 Theosophical.org/theosofest

Friday, September 18

Women’s Mycelium Mysteries Conference

Sept 18-20

Hosted by Midwest Women’s Herbal Includes more than 40 workshops, mushroom forays and keynote addresses covering a wide spectrum of information on mushrooms, fall herbs and their ecological associations. Featured keynote speakers include Sue VanHook, Ruth Barrett and Rose Tursi. Bethel Horizons Retreat Center 4651 Co Rd ZZ, Dodgeville Tickets & to register:  MidwestWomensHerbal.com

Sunday, October 11

Vaishno Devi/Shakti Peetham Pilgrimage

Oct 11-20

A 10-day, small-group experience for those drawn to sacred travel, devotion and inner transformation. Traveling from Delhi to Katra, visit several revered temples along the route and receive darshan, culminating in the powerful pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi. $3,900. For more info, Casey: 484-509-5073 x 1 or KulaKamalaFoundation.org

Friday, October 30

10-Day Self-Inquiry & Meditation Retreat: Seeing Through the Solidity of Thoughts

Oct 30-Nov 9

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 224-300-0499

CaminoWellnessCenter.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.

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 Oct 25. 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

Musical Brunch – 11am-2pm. Also Sat. Featuring local talents. Madame Zuzu’s, 1876 1st St, Highland Park. Details: LifeRhythmsInc.com

The Way of Eternal Becoming: Energetic-Spiritual Cultivation Session – 2-3:15pm. Raising, brightening and engaging your unique true whole self and inherent gifts for a more present and fulfilling way of maneuvering through life’s challenges, successes and day-to-day experiences. Free. Zoom. EternalBecoming.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

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, aromatherapeutic 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.

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

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

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

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

Metaphysical Group – 7-9pm. All levels. Inner Haven, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. My-InnerHaven.com.

The Power of the Subconscious Mind –7-9pm. Find out how the mind really works and answer questions such as: What is the exact definition of the subconscious mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? Plus more. 650 S Clark St, Chicago. Scientology-Chicago.org

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.

Wednesday

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – Thru Nov 18. 7am-1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

Ravinia Farmers Market – June 3-Oct 28. 7am-1pm. 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com

Rocio Sagrado at the Ravinia Farmers Market – 7am-1pm. Truly handmade, 100% pure skincare, balms, deodorants, soaps, aromatherapeutic fragrances and roll-ons, and insect repellent made with plants and flowers from our garden. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave, Highland Park. RavinaFarmersMarket.com

Qigong – 11am-12pm. With Patti. Inner Haven, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. My-InnerHaven.com

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

Open-Level Yoga – 7-8:15pm. With Gosia. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. NSHealing.com

Thursday

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

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

Layers of Dementia – 12-1pm. Layers of Dementia was created to offer the opportunity for people to come together and share their experiences, support one another and learn. Offering 5 Informational Zoom meetings with guest speakers, 2 Support and Share Zoom meetings to create connections, and 2 in-person gatherings at Soulful Prairies. Come to all or any of the offerings that resonate with you. Free. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.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

Be

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. 224-300-0499. 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

Saturday

Green City Market: Lincoln Park – Thru Nov 21. 7am-1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

Palatine Farmers Market – Thru Oct. 7am-1pm. 137 W Wood St, Palatine. Facebook.com/palatinefarmersmarket

Evanston Farmers Market  – Thru Nov 21. 7:30am-1pm. University Pl at Oak St (behind Hilton Garden Inn), Evanston. CityOfEvanston.org

Rise and Radiant Vinyasa Flow – 8am. With Dan Bulf. Heaven Meets Earth, 2746 Central St, Evanston. 847-475-1500. HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Green City Market: West Loop – Thru Nov 21. 8am-1pm. 900W Monroe, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

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.

A little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about. —John Mayer

Classifieds can help you sell goods and services and even attract employees for your business.

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

Akashic Consultation

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

For Hire

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

For Rent/ Space Available

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

Help Wanted

LIVE-IN CAREGIVER – Arlington Heights, IL. Must pass background. 36 paid hrs. Free private room, bath and meals. Modern appointed environment. Dan: 773-370-2509.

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

Services

HEALING REMEDIES FOR YOUR SOUL –Multiple Reiki Master Teacher with 17 years of experience, blending Vedic/Ayurvedic astrology, Akashic Records, mediumship, tarot and shamanic traditions. Distance sessions available: yviRMT@gmail.com

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. Community Resource Guide

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine

CALANDRA CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT

830 E. Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg 312-796-3965

Facebook @CalandraAcuChi CalandraAcupuncture.com

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.

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!

—F. Scott Fitzgerald

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

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.

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 15.

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.

Dance

TIME TO DANCE

@ North Shore School of Dance

505 Laurel Ave., Highland Park

847-432-2060

Time-To-Dance.org

Discover the healing art of dance, ballet, modern and tap for adults 50+.

Digestive Health Specialist

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, 35 and 41.

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 16.

GREEN FRIENDS MONTESSORI SCHOOL

0N905 MA Center Dr, Elburn 60119 630-457-457-9178

GreenFriendsMontessori.com

We serve children ages 3-12, offering Montessori programs for preschool, kindergarten and elementary (grades 1-6), along with full-day care from 8am-6pm. Set on a picturesque, nature-rich campus, our school nurtures authentic Montessori learning. At Green Friends, we don’t just teach—we cultivate an environment where children grow into curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning. See ad on page 27.

Energy, Reiki & Sound Healing

JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST/ ACTIVATOR

847-596-0274

Joann@JoannLysiakGems.com

JoannLysiakGems.com

If you’re not living the life of your dreams or not getting the results you desire, you can change that with Energy Healing/Clearing. You most likely have stuck energy, trapped emotional traumas, emotional blocks or dysfunctional patterns in a constant loop that can be released and transmuted. Scheduled your free 20-min Consultation with Joann on Zoom. Use this link to schedule your session to set yourself free to get the results you desire: Calendly.com/ joannlysiak/energy

YVONNE E. NIEVES, RMT 773-693-5139

YviRMT@gmail.com linktr.ee/YviRMT

Soul Solutions: Integrative Spiritual Healing, Insight & Transformational GuidanceYvonne E. Nieves, RMT, blends Reiki, Vedic Astrology, Ayurveda, Tarot, Akashic Records and mediumship support, informed by initiations in Eastern and West African spiritual traditions. With 16+ years of integrative practice, she offers tailored, personalized healing, clarity and growth for new clients and reiki students.

Equine Gestalt Therapy

SOULFUL PRAIRIES

Linda Bruce 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock 60098 847-366-6743

SoulfulPrairies.com

Soulful Prairies uses the powerful experiential model of Equine Gestalt Therapy to help individuals move through trauma and emotional wounds. We host events and retreats on our 80-acre farm; you can also rent and create your own | 1:1 Sessions | Couples | Team Building | Retreats | Healing Events | Facility Rental | Overnight Accommodation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 and 41.

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 17.

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 16.

Medium, Psychic & Chakra

PSYCHIC MEDIUM NICOLE

866-378-9069 (Text)

PsychicMediumNicole.com

Are you grieving the loss of someone close to your heart? Nicole Pearson, Psychic Medium and Energy Healer, offers Spirit Communication/ Mediumship readings that bring you healing, peace and comfort. Love never dies — it only changes form.

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 19.

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. See ad on page 29.

Retreats/Retreats Center

GOLDEN LIGHT HEALING RETREAT CENTER

Tiffany Dorton 920-428-0588

GoldenLightHealing.net

Offering workshops, sessions, group and personal retreats in shamanism, mediumship, reiki, psychic development and more. See ad on page 15.

Good Vibes, Great Outdoors

Skeletal Strengthening

OSTEOSTRONG

126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091

224-487-8833

195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195

224-487-8881

OsteoStrong.me

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 27.

Spiritual & Creative Development Center

INNER HAVEN ART GALLERY

Spiritual & Creative Development Center

Christina Hladnik & Virginia Adams Grayslake 60030

My-InnerHaven.com

Inner Haven is an art gallery – spiritual & creative development center devoted to personal growth, healing and authentic expression. Featuring unique art for sale from emerging and established artists, Inner Haven also offers workshops, ceremonies, intuitive development, energy healing, mentoring and community gatherings that inspire creativity, connection, self-awareness and inner peace. See ad on page 3.

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 37.

Trauma Coach

CHANDI ASHA

Inner Light Healing

Hello@CoachingByChandi.com

CoachingByChandi.com

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 & Movement

HEAVEN MEETS EARTH YOGA COMMUNITY

2746 Central St., Evanston 847-475-1500

HeavenMeetsEarthYoga.com

Yoga Therapy. Health. Nutrition. Fitness Coaching. Functional Strength. Teacher Training. Retreats. Outdoor Yoga. Reiki.

Earn your massage license while studying holistic therapy!

BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU

10-Week Sessions

June 15 - Aug 17, Mondays 10am-1pm

June 17 - Aug 19, Wednesdays 7-10pm

2-Weekend Intensive

July 10-12 and 17-19, Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm

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