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September 2026

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

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

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NATIONAL TEAM

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

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com Cover image courtesy of

Wollertz for Adobe Stock © 2026 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

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Publisher’s Letter

particular background soundtrack emerges during these last weeks of summer in the Chicago area. In spring, the air is thick with birdsong. Now it’s thick with insect song, as cicadas and crickets create an almost palpable vibration in the humid air. I like to stand outdoors after dusk, surrounded by the songs of crickets near and far, hearing their tones change as I walk around the backyard. Sometimes I turn on my phone’s voice memo app and just let it run, capturing a few minutes of late summer to tuck away for a cold January day. I’m not ready to hand off September’s summer energies to fall Peggy Malecki just yet, even as subtle cues around us signal the seasonal shift. The light angles are lower across deep greens and emerging browns, while goldenrods and native sunflowers glow yellow, asters add purple and white, and rudbeckias and coneflowers are still hanging in there. Birds begin their peak southern migration through our airspace by mid-month. As I work at my desk, I hear the occasional clink-clunk of acorns beginning to fall from a neighbor’s bur oak, and the afternoon cicada chorus crescendos through my open window. For a few glorious weeks, we can pretty much blend our indoors and outdoors, letting the sounds and rhythms of still-summery days flow through our living spaces. All of it carries us toward September’s seasonal balance point, the autumn equinox. What better time than September to explore this issue’s theme of Inner Balance? In our feature article, “Introduction to Somatic Therapies: Reconnecting Mind and Body in an Overstimulated World,” we look at the connection between emotional experiences and what we carry physically, and how tuning into our body’s signals can build self-awareness and resilience. In celebration of National Yoga Month, we explore the practice of yoga as an accessible way to cultivate movement, stability, breath, awareness and inner connection. And in her insightful Healing Ways article, Ellen Katz suggests that the ingredient we need to find our inner balance is simply “awareness.” By practicing present-time awareness, she adds, we can sense the subtle cues in our environment and learn the wisdom of our bodies. There’s still plenty of summer bounty to savor before we turn the seasonal page. September farmers markets and gardens remain abundant with late-summer produce, and this month’s Recipe From a Farmers Market Kitchen offers a fresh recipe for Smoky Eggplant Zaalouk. As we head toward peak fall migration, Sheryl DeVore takes us north to Wisconsin’s Horicon Marsh, where September brings waves of migrating ducks and other waterfowl to this remarkable wetland. And if you want to see what birds are moving nightly through our own skies, visit BirdCast’s live migration dashboard (Dashboard.Birdcast.org) to track migration in your county. As always, I encourage you to step outside this month and notice the daily changes in nature’s color and light palettes. Stop by a farmers market or co-op for local, seasonal produce or walk a trail and take a moment to observe the autumn equinox, when day and night briefly come into balance. Listen for the late-summer insects, watch the full moon rise or open the windows as you can. However you choose to experience it, use your senses to take in the essence of these 30 days of September.

Photo by Peggy Malecki

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Contents Departments 6 News Briefs 14 Health Briefs 15 Event Brief 16 Community Spotlight 18 Natural Chicago 22 Green Living 24 Feature Story 28 Conscious Eating 30 Farmers Market Kitchen

32 Local Food Dispatch 34 Fit Body 36 Healing Ways 40 Natural Pet 42 Homeopathy 44 Calendar

45 Energy & Healing Arts Network

16 Community Spotlight: Bringing New Possibilities to Fruition

50 Classifieds

18 Horicon Marsh: Wisconsin’s Fall Birding Paradise Near Chicago

51 Resource Guide

22 Rethinking Fall Garden Cleanup 24 Introduction to Somatic Therapies 28 Nutritious Nachos 30 Beyond Eggplant Parmesan 32 How an Indoor Farm Is Helping Revitalize Waukegan 34 Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility 36 Inner Balance

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38 Kundalini Yoga for the Aquarian Age 40 Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats 42 Homeopathy Under the Microscope

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September 2026

News Briefs

Chicago Male Clinic Celebrates Three Years of Helping Men Live Well Photo credit Chicago Male Clinic

Midwest Cleanse Hosts Our Vagus in Virgo Wellness Fair Midwest Cleanse will host Our Vagus in Virgo, a wellness fair featuring holistic health practitioners, educational presentations and wellness-focused vendors, from 2 to 5 p.m. on September 13 at the Lincoln-Peterson Medical Professional Building, in Chicago. The event will bring together practitioners and community members to learn about ways to support the body and nervous system, with a focus on the cleansing energy associated with the new moon and Virgo’s astrological association with the intestines.

Jerry Garcia, PA-C, and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA, along with other members of the Chicago Male Clinic team

For the past three years, Chicago Male Clinic has helped men take a more proactive approach to their health, vitality and well-being. The clinic, which opened in 2023, takes a whole-person approach to men’s health, bringing together care for sexual wellness, physical performance, recovery, hormones, nutrition and healthy aging. Services include erectile dysfunction treatment, acoustic wave therapy, radial and focused shock wave therapy, testosterone testing and support, sports medicine, musculoskeletal and chiropractic care, acupuncture, therapeutic massage and stretch therapy. Comprehensive physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition and metabolic support, including GLP-1 treatment, are also available to help men feel better. “We want men to think differently about their health,” says Medical Director Jerry Garcia, PA. “When one part of the body is healthier, the whole person is healthier. Feeling healthy, moving well, maintaining intimacy, improving energy and staying active are all connected.” As Chicago Male Clinic enters its fourth year, its philosophy remains simple: Wellness isn’t just about adding years to life; it’s about adding health, vitality and quality to those years. Location: 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Ste. 506, Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 312-927-0078 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com. See ad on page 15, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Presentations and discussions will cover a wide variety of wellness practices, including lymphatic drainage, colon hydrotherapy, nervous system regulation, frequency healing, sound healing, red light therapy, astrology, reiki and nutrition. An astrologer and reiki master also will be part of the program. An exhibit hall will provide an opportunity to meet presenters and explore event-only promotions, specialty foods, spices, oils and other products. The afternoon will also include raffles and door prizes. Cost: $10 suggested donation. Location: 5962 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. For more information, call 773-728-6800, email Info@MidwestCleanse.com or visit MidwestCleanse.com. See ad on page 13, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Nutritious Nachos You can find all the recipes in the Conscious Eating section at

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September 2026

News Briefs

Photo credit Zayyir Photography

Clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Shefali Tsabary will visit Chicago on September 19 for a lunch and book conversation on conscious parenting at ALTAR Community, in Logan Square. Presented in partnership with Happy Women Dinners, the noon-to-2 p.m. gathering will explore ideas from her newest books, Raising Conscious Daughters and Raising Conscious Sons, and their relevance for parents, grandparents, educators, mentors and others interested in nurturing the next generation. Known for combining Western psychology with Eastern wisdom, Tsabary’s approach encourages parents to move beyond control, perfectionism and inherited conditioning to cultivate deeper connection, authenticity and emotional resilience. Her latest books explore the unique challenges facing girls and boys today while offering practical guidance for helping children develop a strong sense of self.

The conversation comes amid growing interest in emotional Dr. Shefali Tsabary intelligence, mental well-being and conscious leadership in raising children. Through her books, courses and speaking engagements, Tsabary has become a prominent voice in contemporary parenting and personal growth. Location: 2518 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago. For more information, email Hello@AltarCommunity.com or visit AltarCommunity.com.

Find Holistic Wellness, Inspiration and the Arts at Illuminate Naperville Illuminate Festivals will host Illuminate Naperville, a one-day, mind-body-spirit-arts festival, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 27 at the Chicago Marriott Naperville. The event brings together holistic wellness practitioners, intuitive readers, artists and spiritual retailers for a day focused on personal growth, healing and connection. Attendees can explore crystals, crystal jewelry, essential oils, luxurious spa products, handmade gifts, original artwork, reiki and other energy-healing modalities, along with a variety of holistic wellness products and services. Guests can also enjoy free educational workshops throughout the day, offering opportunities to learn about alternative healing practices, spiritual development and personal wellness in an engaging and welcoming atmosphere. “We are thrilled to be back in Naperville bringing healing, inspiration and community together,” says Judy Bazis, founder of Illuminate Festivals. “So many people are searching for greater peace, spiritual insight and meaningful connection. Illuminate Festivals provides a safe, uplifting and enjoyable environment where people can explore new ideas, discover gifted practitioners and leave feeling renewed.” Location: 1801 N. Naper Blvd., Naperville. For more information, including exhibitor opportunities, visit IlluminateFestivals.com. See ad on page 14. 8

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Explore the Transformative Power of Kundalini Yoga This Fall Creation Yoga, in Wheeling, will present three immersive Kundalini Yoga workshops this fall focused on the transformative concepts of Maya, Karma and Rahao. Maya: Lift the Spell of Maya and Remove the Limitations of Illusion will be held October 3; followed by Karma: Creating Ourselves Through Our Doing on November 7; and Rahao: Harness the Wisdom in Divine Silence on December 5. Each one-day experience combines Kundalini Yoga, meditation and interactive practices to help participants deepen self-awareness, shift limiting patterns and cultivate greater inner Puranpreet Kaur balance. All will be offered in person, with a Zoom option available. Courtesy Creation Yoga

Dr. Shefali Tsabary to Discuss Conscious Parenting at ALTAR Community

Founded in 2016 by Puranpreet Kaur, E-RYT 500, a Kundalini Yoga specialist, trainer and mentor, Creation Yoga offers a welcoming space for inner growth. She knows the practice of Kundalini Yoga is especially relevant as we move into the Age of Aquarius—“A new era full of possibilities for spiritual growth, healing, connection, compassion and love.” Creation Yoga also offers weekly Kundalini Yoga classes in Wheeling, Glencoe and online, as well as sound healing, private sessions, teacher trainings and special events. Location: 1803 Avalon Dr., Wheeling. For more information or to register for a workshop or class, call 847-890-8119 or visit CreationYoga.com. See ad on page 35, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Autumn Goddess Festival Returns to Evanston With Workshops, Music and Ceremony

Courtesy FOI Chicago

The Fellowship of Isis (FOI) Chicago invites the community to the 33rd annual Autumn Goddess Festival, taking place on October 9 and 10 at the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston. This year’s theme, The Southern Cross: Ray II—Oracle of the Goddess Haumea, honors Haumea, the Hawaiian goddess of life, while exploring the universal themes of transformation, rebirth and humanity’s connection to the natural world. Everyone is welcome, regardless of spiritual background. The two-day celebration begins Friday evening with a preview, fellowship reception and guided meditation, followed by a full day of presentations, workshops and sacred celebration on Saturday. Guests will enjoy lectures by authors and spiritual teachers, healing arts practitioners, astrologers, artists and vendors, along with meditation, music, ceremony and opportunities to connect with a welcoming spiritual community. The festival also features Haumea’s Market, a silent auction, and presentations exploring Polynesian spirituality, ancient wisdom traditions and FOI’s global mission. Early registration discounts are available, with single- and two-day, and senior/student admission options. Location: 1501 Sherman Ave., Evanston. For more information or to register, call or text 773-505-1724, email Hail_Isis@yahoo.com or visit the FOI Chicago Facebook event page.

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Sonic Fusion Meditation: A Vibrational Journey

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Friday, September 25. 6:00-9:00 pm Reflexology For Feet, Hands, Face

Saturday, September 26, 2:00-5:00 pm What In Life Took Your Power Away?

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September 2026

Discover Tree-Mendous Fun at Wild Oaktober The Darien Garden Club and Indian Prairie Public Library will cohost Wild Oaktober, a free, family-friendly event from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on October 18 at the Darien-based library. The walk-up event will feature educational exhibits, hands-on activities and interactive experiences celebrating the importance of oak trees and the ecosystems they support. Courtesy Darien Garden Club

Visitors can learn to identify oak trees, discover their ecological significance and explore ways to help restore native oak habitats. Activities will include crafts, games, tree identification tours on the liOak trees brary grounds and opportunities to test tree-mendous knowledge by identifying trees through their bark, leaves, branching patterns and overall shape. Oak saplings, courtesy of Bartlett Tree Experts, will be available while supplies last, and participants can also learn how to grow an oak tree from an acorn.

A Weekend to Connect, Learn, Be Inspired and Celebrate Wellness Wellness Synergy will host the fourth annual Harmony of Life Wellness Conference from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on October 17 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 18 at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center Chicago–Downers Grove. The free event brings together wellness professionals, speakers, practitioners, educators, exhibitors and health-conscious individuals for two days dedicated to health, healing and living well. More than a wellness conference, Harmony of Life offers an opportunity to step away from everyday demands and discover new ideas, tools and inspiration for greater well-being. Attendees can meet wellness experts, explore products and services, and learn from speakers focused on healthy living.

Image courtesy Wellness Synergy

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The conference will feature doctors, international speakers, wellness experts, more than 30 educational lectures, wellness exhibitors, holistic practitioners and interactive experiences. Topics will range from nutrition and lifestyle medicine to women’s health, emotional well-being, natural therapies and sustainable living.

Master Naturalists from the Jurica-Suchy Nature Museum will be on hand to provide information about native trees and the wildlife that depend on them. At 2 p.m., Heather Prince, of Fearless Gardening, will present A Natural History of Oaks in the library’s Keshav Sanghani Meeting Room.

Attendees can also explore natural health and biohacking products and services from more than 40 vendors, discover plant-based nutrition and clean-living solutions, and experience holistic therapies. Wellness businesses, practitioners and organizations interested in becoming vendors are invited to apply.

Location: 401 Plainfield Rd., Darien. For more information, visit Eventbrite.com/e/wild-oaktober-tickets-1993212636652?aff=oddtdtcreator. To register for the presentation (required), visit ippl.libcal.com/event/17020985.

Admission and parking are free. Location: 2111 Butterfield Rd., Downers Grove. For vendor inquiries, email Info.Wellness.Synergy@ gmail.com. For more information, visit Harmony of Life Wellness Conference on Facebook. See ad on page 35.

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Body Mind Spirit Celebration Returns to Schaumburg This October Crystals, natural health, intuitive arts, energy healing, personal growth and a weekend devoted to discovering what’s possible return to Schaumburg on October 24 and 25, when the Body Mind Spirit Celebration takes over the Schaumburg Convention Center at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel complex. Now in its third year at this premier northwest suburban venue, the Celebration brings together more than 160 holistic vendors, readers, healers, practitioners and teachers for one of the region’s largest gatherings devoted to natural wellness, spirituality and conscious living. Visitors can explore everything from crystals, jewelry and unique gifts to natural health, reiki and energy work, astrology, tarot, psychic readings, meditation and new approaches to personal transformation. An extensive program of seminars and experiential presentations runs throughout both days, inviting guests to learn, participate and discover something entirely new, all included with admission. This year’s theme, Toward Wonder, captures the spirit of the weekend: come curious, ask questions and try something new. Visitors can discover a beautiful treasure, experience a healing session, hear an idea that changes their perspective or simply enjoy being surrounded by others interested in healthier, happier and more meaningful lives. Weekend admission is $16 in advance or $18 at the door. Free parking. Location: 1551 N. Thoreau Dr., Schaumburg. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit bmse.net. See ad and QR code on page 3.

Discover the Light Within You Explore the universal, inner experience of profound peace amidst the chaos of modern life through the Kriya Yoga meditation teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda

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September 2026

News Briefs

The Basics Take Root at Morton Arboretum Children’s Garden

The spaces bring The Basics, five research-based principles for supporting young children’s development, into an outdoor setting. Developed through the Achievement Gap Initiative at Harvard University in partnership with the Black Philanthropy Fund, in Boston, the principles encourage families to maximize love and manage stress; talk, sing and point; count, group and compare; explore through movement and play; and read and discuss stories. Interactive features include flipbooks with family activity ideas, literacy experiences, nature prompts and a vegetable garden inspired by The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Families can notice birds, compare leaves, count objects or create stories based on what they discover.

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Photo by Jeff Carrion Chicago Botanic Garden

Families visiting The Morton Arboretum’s Children’s Garden, in Lisle, can now discover new ways to support early childhood development through nature-based play. Three new Basics-inspired garden spaces, created through a partnership with the DuPage County Health Department and WeGo Together for Kids, offer interactive experiences that encourage families to explore, play and learn together.

The gardens demonstrate how everyday outdoor experiences can support language, observation and problem-solving while strengthening family connections. Location: 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, Lisle. For more information, visit Mortonarb.org/explore/activities/childrens-family-programs/ early-childhood-basics-gardens.

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Prepare to Be Charmed at Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns

Photo by Jeff Carrion Chicago Botanic Garden

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, an eerie nighttime trail aglow with elaborate artist-carved pumpkins, returns to the Chicago Botanic Garden in advance of Halloween for 15 evenings: October 7 through 11, October 14 through 18 and October 21 through 25. More than 1,000 real pumpkins lit with LED lights will light up the night and guide attendees on a just-creepyenough adventure enjoyable for the whole family. Tickets are now available for this family-friendly fall tradition. The route will also include live carving demonstrations, costumed entertainers and seasonal treats for purchase to enjoy along the trail. Plus, new this year is the Monarch Skull, a 20-foot illuminated sculpture by artist Alyse Gamson that combines nature photography and digital painting.

The Garden will close each day at 5 p.m. and reopen at 6 p.m. for ticket holders to this annual fall tradition. Timed tickets can be purchased for entry between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Last entry is at 9:45 p.m., and the event ends at 10:30 p.m. Interested attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets early to secure their preferred time. Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ChicagoBotanic.org/halloween.

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September 2026

Health Briefs

Breathe Better, Detox Naturally

avoiding unhealthy air, but it is a simple daily practice that strengthens one of the body’s detoxification organs: the lungs.

As wildfire smoke from Canada settled over the Chicago area this summer, many of us experienced firsthand how deeply the air we breathe affects our inner balance. Leading research now recognizes air pollution as one of 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia, highlighting how environmental exposures impact multiple body systems, including the brain. The good news is our bodies are remarkably resilient and well-equipped to detoxify. The liver, kidneys, lungs, skin and gastrointestinal tract work around the clock to process and eliminate environmental chemicals.

Photo courtesy Marathon Wellness

by Rachel Kermen, M.D.

Rachel Kermen, M.D.

A personalized approach begins by understanding individual biology. Certain genetic variants may influence detoxification capacity, but targeted lifestyle and supplementation strategies may help strengthen the body’s natural detoxification processes. Laboratory testing can provide clues. Nutrient deficiencies—including vitamin D, magnesium, zinc and B vitamins—may impair detoxification pathways. Biomarkers such as glutathione status, omega-3 index and C-reactive protein may identify opportunities to bolster resilience. Lifestyle remains the foundation. A colorful, Mediterranean-style eating pattern provides polyphenols and fiber that support the body’s antioxidant and microbiome defenses. Regular physical activity improves circulation and supports lymphatic function, while quality sleep allows the brain’s glymphatic system to remove metabolic waste. Adequate hydration helps healthy kidneys filter and excrete various toxins, as well. Breathing is another underappreciated detoxification tool. The lungs eliminate carbon dioxide and other volatile waste products with every exhalation. Slow diaphragmatic breathing through the nose with longer exhalations optimize ventilation while shifting the nervous system toward a calmer parasympathetic state. Nasal breathing also filters, humidifies and warms inhaled air while increasing nitric oxide production, which supports healthy blood flow and oxygen delivery. Even five minutes of relaxed breathing—or extending the exhale longer than the inhale—can reduce stress, improve heart rate variability and support resilience. Breathwork is not a substitute for

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For appropriate individuals, sauna therapy may offer additional support. Sweating may contribute modestly to eliminating certain heavy metals and persistent environmental chemicals. Regular sauna use has also been associated with cardiovascular and cognitive benefits. Adequate hydration and medical guidance are important for people with chronic medical conditions. Targeted supplements may also play a role when clinically appropriate, but they should complement— not replace—a healthy lifestyle. Environmental toxins are an unavoidable part of modern life, but personalized medicine can make a meaningful difference. By understanding our unique biology and strengthening our body’s natural detoxification systems, we can support lifelong brain health and inner balance. Rachel Kermen is a triple board-certified integrative medicine physician with additional training in mindfulness-based stress reduction, breathwork, metabolic health, nutritional psychiatry, dementia prevention and clinical genomics. She is the founder of Marathon Wellness. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit MarathonWellness.org or email Info@MarathonWellness.org. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Event Brief

A Day of Mind, Body and Spirit Awaits at TheosoFEST The Theosophical Society will host the TheosoFEST Mind Body Spirit Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 12 on its 40-acre grounds in Wheaton. The free, family-friendly festival will feature more than 100 vendors, vegetarian food, wellness activities, educational talks and attractions for visitors of all ages.

in 1990 in conjunction with the Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions. The festival has grown over the years, attracting thousands of visitors. The grounds offer additional opportunities for exploration, including a world-class library, Quest Book Shop and Buddha Meditation Garden. A festive Kids’ Korner will provide activities for younger visitors.

Throughout the day, attendees can take part in tai chi, yoga, intuitive readings, forest bathing and a Circle of Peace labyrinth meditation. Other activities include a shamanic despacho ceremony and talks exploring astrology, sacred friendships, theosophy, Indigenous wisdom and the Kabbalah. This year’s event will also feature a centennial celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Theosophical Society’s presence in Wheaton. The inaugural TheosoFEST was held

The first 150 attendees will receive a free reusable tote filled with vendor goodies while supplies last. 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 11.

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September 2026

Community Spotlight

Bringing New Possibilities to Fruition: Zen Shiatsu Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary by Marlaina Donato

As director of Zen Shiatsu, in Evanston, Rogne lives by the premise that each of us—and the world around us—is fundamentally positive and always evolving, even while we experience personal suffering and global injustice. On an individual level, both his work and vision share a single resonance. “My personal mission is to help each person feel doubtless about the fact that there is nothing fundamentally wrong with them or the world around them,” says Rogne. “Shiatsu is the way that I carry out that personal mission.” As Chicago’s oldest shiatsu center, Zen Shiatsu collaborates with the integrative medicine community while providing solid bodywork education for a diverse spectrum of students as well as professional shiatsu sessions to clients. The center also offers discounted 45-minute sessions with capable, soon-to-be graduates.

Photo courtesy Zen Shiatsu

Shiatsu, a noninvasive, complementary therapeutic modality rooted in traditional Eastern practices (particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine), promotes relaxation, pain relief and recovery much like therapeutic massage, but goes a step further. “Shiatsu therapists have additional training to help with internal health issues like problems of sleep, digestion, immune system issues, chronic illness and emotional health goals,” explains Rogne. Shiatsu uses East Asian medical models from China and Japan to understand and respond to individual patterns.

Zen Shiatsu Founders Steve Rogne & Amber Matthews 16

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At Zen Shiatsu, clients are welcomed and met exactly where they are. Rogne illustrates, “We work with subtle clues from the health history, as well as visual clues and sensations we can feel with our hands. We

Photo courtesy Zen Shiatsu

ong before the holistic concepts of body, mind and spirit were part of everyday conversation, Steve Rogne found healing and his own unique voice through music and theater while still in high school. “I went into the performance field to find out what other aspects of life were similar to singing. As it turns out, most of them,” Rogne muses. “There is a naturally arising, spontaneous, healthful expression that is always moving under the surface and ready to come forward.”

can help people understand various factors that affect their health—dietary, emotional, seasonal and environmental factors.” Graduates not only leave with certification to enter a growing health field but also an inspired way of walking through the world based on the philosophy that societal change starts within each of us. Rogne attests, “There is plenty of work for us all to do in order to live up to the highest of what’s been revealed to us. Through shiatsu, I hope to help address the physical and emotional suffering that leads people to cynicism, hopelessness and disengagement.” The body-mind-spirit approach at Zen Shiatsu ripples out to the community, most evident in their work with veterans. “We are a provider in the VA Community Care Network, so veterans can receive ongoing care that is 100 percent covered by VA reimbursement,”

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says Rogne. “This program has been really successful in its first year of operation, and we encourage any veterans experiencing pain and disability to please reach out to see how we can help.” The school is also an eligible institution for the use of GI Bill educational benefits, and eligible veterans or their children may qualify for 100 percent tuition coverage. Their support structure also extends with unwavering inclusivity to the transgender community, people of color and other marginalized groups. As Rogne and his team celebrate 20 successful, inspired years, they look forward to what the next two decades will bring, especially the integration of healing modalities for a more peaceful world beginning with the individual. He says, “I hope to bring to fruition some new possibilities in the education and healthcare fields,” envisioning a model where young people are raised from the earliest age “to be more free of pain, cynicism and hopelessness.” He hopes to see them go into the community feeling so strongly rooted in that truth “that they are not willing to justify their participation in systems that dehumanize or exploit others. They can actively respond to life and proactively build the future they want to see, for the sake of the whole.” Whatever might come in the years ahead, Rogne is dedicated to continuing what he describes as the Daoist philosophy “of nourishing the roots—nourishing and developing a relationship with that inner healing potential and watching with curiosity to see what shape it takes in its growth.” Zen Shiatsu is located at 818 Lake St., in Evanston. For more information, call 847-864-1130, email Info@ZenShiatsu.edu or visit ZenShiatsu.edu. See ad on the back cover, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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September 2026

Natural Chicago

Horicon Marsh:

Wisconsin’s Fall Birding Paradise Near Chicago Once a drained wetland, Horicon Marsh has become one of the Midwest’s premier destinations for fall migration, autumn color and outdoor recreation. by Sheryl DeVore

ne of the best places close to Chicago to witness changing autumn colors amid thousands of migratory waterfowl is the 33,000-acre Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin. “The magic of Horicon is the biodiversity,” says Chelsy Herring, executive director of the Friends of Horicon Marsh (HoriconMarsh.org). “At Horicon Marsh, people know they’ll have an outdoor experience that leaves a lasting impression.” A two-hour drive from northern Illinois,

Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area encompasses the southern third of the marsh and is owned and managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service owns and manages the northern two-thirds, known as the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. “I sometimes sit and ponder about how it makes you feel when you’re immersed in nature at the marsh,” says Herring, who lives in and grew up in nearby Horicon. “It’s just like you can never have too many sunset pictures, because each sunset picture is

unique. At the marsh, you never know what you’re going to see. One day you might be surrounded by a chorus of crickets. The next day, sandhill cranes will fly over.” Today, visitors see a thriving wetland, but Horicon Marsh wasn’t always this way. Rather, the area has a storied past, having been drained and burned decades ago, becoming a vast wasteland before being restored. “It’s been through a lot over the years,” says Elizabeth Herzmann, wildlife conservation educator at the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. But today, it provides homes for wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities for nearly every interest.

Floating boardwalk at Horicon Marsh 18

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Courtesy Creative Commons

“You can paddle. You can hike. You can watch wildlife and birds. You can go on a driving tour,” Herzmann explains. “You can go on boardwalks or park at a lookout and have a picnic overlooking beautiful scenery.” Visitors also have the chance to see one of the world’s rarest birds, the whooping crane, which began nesting at Horicon Marsh in 2020. Thirteen miles long and 5 miles across at its widest point, Horicon Marsh formed nearly 10,000 years ago after glaciers scoured out many basins, including Green Bay and Lake Winnebago. As the climate warmed, the basins filled to create shallow lakes and wetlands teeming with vegetation for roosting, nesting and foraging wildlife. “Roaming

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the area back then were Ice Age creatures like mammoths partaking in the bounty,” Herzmann says. “We also can piece together thousands of years of Indigenous cultures living here.”

Storied Past

The Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (fws.gov/refuge/horicon) is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while the Marsh Haven Nature Center (MarshHaven.org) is a volunteer-run nonprofit. All three offer exhibits, educational

programs and trails. “We all have the same goal,” Herring says. “We want to preserve the wetlands, not only for human use but also for the wildlife.”

In the 1840s, European settlers installed a dam to create an artificial lake on the marsh, destroying the wetlands to use water power for sawmills. The lake, however, flooded surrounding farm fields, which led to the removal of the dam and the return of the marsh, as well as more waterfowl and hunters. “There were private hunting clubs and market hunting in the early 1900s, with no rules and regulations, no hunting limit, and within 25 years, most of the duck population had been completely decimated,” Herzmann relays. Soon thereafter, a 14-mile ditch was dug down the entire length of the marsh to drain it for farming of onions, potatoes and carrots. “It didn’t go very well,” Herzmann says. The peaty substrate dried out, fires ignited and the peat burned down to bare mineral soil. “It was a true absolute wasteland,” Herzmann says.

Today, nearly 1 million visitors come to the marsh annually. Three visitor centers welcome guests. The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center (dnr.Wisconsin.gov/topic/ lands/wildlifeareas/horicon/education) is run by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Horicon Marsh. It features an Explorium (HoriconMarsh.org/ visit/explorium), which includes hands-on experiences such as a simulated airboat ride through the marsh. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

Courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

In the early 1920s, local conservation groups fought for the restoration of the marsh. The state started buying land and creating a wildlife area, and in the 1940s, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service bought the rest.

Horicon Marsh trail map September 2026

Sandhill cranes in autumn

Courtesy of the Friends of Horicon Marsh

Natural Chicago

Wild turkeys in autumn at Horicon Marsh

Horicon Marsh, encompassing 50 square miles, is dotted with islands. Small woodlands and grasslands grow on the outskirts. “That’s really important because it offers different habitats for different species, including at least 300 species of birds that visit the marsh at various times of the year,” Herzmann says. Also living within the marsh are turtles, frogs, bats and a host of other common and rare species. Wildflowers bloom spring through fall in the woodlands and prairies.

Sandhill cranes, once threatened in Wisconsin, have made a comeback and now stop at Horicon Marsh, with peak time from mid-October to mid-November, depending on the weather and food availability.

Migratory Waterfowl Abound in Autumn

“During the day, they are out in farm fields to feed,” Herzmann says. Many trails are open, giving visitors a chance to experience hundreds to thousands of cranes sounding their trumpet-like calls as they descend into the marsh at sunset or leave at sunrise.

“Fall is an iconic time to come to the marsh,” Herzmann says. That’s when the colors change and abundant duck species, sandhill cranes and Canada geese rest and feed before flying farther south for winter. “It comes in waves,” Herzmann says. Early ducks, such as bluewinged teal, come through in September, followed by the first migratory Canada geese and other duck species, such as gadwall and northern pintail.

Sunrise over Horicon Marsh 20

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Courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/ Rachel Samerdyke

Geese populations peak from late October to mid-November, and they often depart by mid-December, though some linger. The number of geese has dropped, risen and dropped again as managers work to maintain a population that keeps the ecosystem in balance and provides water and food for other migratory waterfowl.

The best time to view cranes and geese in large numbers is either at sunrise or an hour before sunset, when the birds are congregated in the marsh.

To view cranes and geese in autumn, Herzmann recommends driving the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge’s 3-mile auto loop. About two-thirds of the way, there’s parking for a floating boardwalk where visitors can see ducks, geese and cranes. “On the northeast side of the Horicon Marsh is the Bud Cook Hiking Area, which has been a great location for the sandhill cranes,” Herzmann continues. “You can see a couple thousand of them coming over during peak times.” Visitors are also coming to the marsh now for a chance to see whooping cranes, and the boardwalk is the best place to search for them. The International Crane Foundation sponsors free whooping crane hikes monthly through October (SavingCranes.org/events/ guided-whooping-crane-walks-horicon-necedah).

Overlook and Fall Colors

Perched atop a glacial drumlin, the Palmatory Street Overlook provides a picnic shelter and a platform with a sweeping view of the marsh, where visitors can watch birds come to roost for the evening. “It also has a beautiful sunset, and you can see some lovely fall colors there,” Herzmann says. The upland woodlots along Highway 49 Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Courtesy of the Friends of Horicon Marsh

Autumn scene at Horicon Marsh

feature oaks, maples and hickories, which change colors beginning in September, glowing in shades of red and yellow. To see more autumn hues, Herzmann suggests driving 2.6 miles from the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center to Ledge Park, in Dodge County (co.Dodge.wi.gov/lrp-parks/ledge-park). “It has good forested habitat and can get some beautiful fall colors, with mostly maples and some oaks,” she says. In September and October, prairies on the trails are teeming with goldenrods and New England asters, a combination of yellow and purple. Various butterflies and bees visit these plants, adding to the cornucopia of colors. Another way to see waterfowl and colors is via boat. Visitors can take a narrated boat tour or rent canoes and kayaks (HoriconMarsh.com/ index.php) to get into the heart of the wetland before the season ends in late October. Visitors also can bring their own kayaks and canoes.

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Whatever way visitors wish to explore Horicon Marsh, “we need to have people come here, fall in love with the wildlife and then hopefully they’ll help take care of it,” Herring says. 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.

Ah, September! You are the doorway to the season that awakens my soul. —Peggy Toney Horton

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September 2026

Green Living

Rethinking Fall Garden Cleanup Simple changes to our fall routine can protect pollinators, support songbirds and keep gardens healthier through the seasons. by Melinda Myers

s temperatures cool, start preparing a list of fall tasks to complete before the snow begins to fall. Before raking and bagging leaves and cutting back shrubs, consider what’s best for the plants, songbirds and pollinators that depend on our landscapes throughout winter.

Photo credit: www.MelindaMyers.com

Leave healthy perennials standing in the landscape. Many provide motion, form and texture to the winter garden. This subtle winter beauty may not be as colorful as a summer garden, but it adds interest to what may be an otherwise drab winter landscape. The seed heads of coneflower, rudbeckia, liatris, bee balm and others attract seed-eating songbirds like finches, sparrows, chickadees, juncos and jays to winter gardens. These welcome visitors add color and motion, entertaining us throughout winter. The hollow stems of various perennials provide winter homes for beneficial insects that pollinate plants and help manage insect pests. Standing perennials also provide shelter for those insects overwintering nearby.

Photo credit: www.MelindaMyers.com

Keep leaves in the garden to protect the soil and provide insulation for plant roots and the insects, toads and frogs overwintering below ground. Leave them in place throughout the year to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds and improve the soil as they decompose.

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Late fall, once plants are dormant, is also a time to do a bit of touch-up pruning. Avoid late summer or early fall pruning that can stimulate late-season growth, which may be damaged over winter. Focus on removing wayward, dead and damaged branches. Prune these stems back to just above an outward-facing bud, healthy side branch or main stem. Consider waiting to prune summer-flowering shrubs in early spring so their form, structure, colorful bark or fruit can be enjoyed in the winter landscape. Wounds close more quickly and fewer insects and diseases are present at that time, reducing the risk of infection.

Seed heads in the autumn garden.

Pruning hydrangeas is based on flowering. Bigleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood, and repeat bloomers, like Endless Summer, bloom on old and new growth. These often die back to the ground in our cold winters. Remove the dead branches in spring and wait for new growth to bloom. Oakleaf hydrangeas also set their flower buds the previous season. These need minimal or no pruning. If needed, prune right after flowering. Panicle and Annabelle-type hydrangeas flower on new growth, so these can be pruned during the dormant season. Panicle hydrangeas, like limelight and Bobo, need minimal pruning, and severe pruning

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shrubs in late winter or early spring.

Photo credit: www.MelindaMyers.com

Wait to prune spring-flowering shrubs, like lilacs and forsythia, until right after their flowers fade for maximum color. These can be pruned during the dormant season, but it will remove some or all the flower buds, diminishing the spring floral display.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Quickfire’.

results in distorted and floppy growth. Many gardeners prefer to prune smooth Annabelle-type hydrangeas, summer-blooming spireas and potentillas in fall once they are dormant. These can be cut back to just above the soil surface, but this severe pruning often leads to floppy growth. If this is a concern, cut all the stems back to 15 to 18 inches tall. Then cut half of those stems back to the soil surface. The older stems support the new growth, reducing the risk of flopping. This method also works when pruning these

Avoid late summer and fall pruning of evergreens, which exposes once-sheltered inner needles and leaves to harsh winter weather conditions. Limit evergreen pruning in fall to damaged, dead or wayward branches for best results. Watch for any sunken or discolored areas on dead or dying stems. This may indicate a disease problem. Prune several inches below the area to avoid the risk of spreading the disease to other parts of the plant. Disinfect tools between each cut if a disease problem is suspected. Do the same between plants as a precautionary measure. Spray tools with a 70 percent alcohol disinfectant or dip them in rubbing alcohol between cuts or between plants. A one-part bleach and nine parts water solution also works, but it is hard on tools. Take time to clean and prepare tools before pruning. Use bypass hand pruners and loppers that have two sharp blades to make clean cuts, allowing the wounds to close

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Learn more about the hows and whys of pruning hydrangeas and other shrubs with Melinda Myers at 11 a.m. on September 26 at Pasquesi Home and Gardens, located at 975 N. Shore Drive, in Lake Bluff. The event is free, and no registration is required. quickly. Pruning saws are the best option for larger stems. Be sure to wear safety glasses to protect eyes and gloves to protect hands. Adjusting a fall cleanup schedule can help support beneficial insects and promote healthy growth. Then, when spring arrives, gardeners will be ready to get into the garden, finish any needed cleanup and pruning, and look for signs of spring. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including The Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses How to Grow Anything instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV and radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. For more information, visit MelindaMyers.com.

September 2026

Feature Story

Introduction to Somatic Therapies Reconnecting Mind and Body in an Overstimulated World by Sheldon C. Baker

Somatic healing practices can provide a reset through movement and body awareness. According to Gina Nick, Ph.D., a naturopathic physician with 25 years of experience and an integrative medical practice in Los Angeles, “Somatic therapies are designed to address physical tension and release the stored emotions and stressors housed in the body.” These practices—which can be performed at home or with the help of a professional—forge a healthy, fluent connection between the mind and body by creating heightened self-awareness and boosting recovery and resilience. The result is sustained calmness and an improved ability to achieve serenity, focus and cognitive clarity.

Noticing the Body’s Messages

“Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your thoughts. It changes your biology,” explains Daniel Amen, M.D., a double board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist and author of multiple national bestsellers, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Pain: Breaking the Doom Loop to Heal Chronic Physical and Emotional Pain. “When stress hormones stay elevated for too long, they increase muscle tension, fire up inflammation and contribute to chronic pain. They also disrupt sleep, impair digestion and can even reduce blood flow to the brain, making you feel anxious, exhausted or mentally foggy.” Somatic therapy relies on interoception—awareness of body sensations—to identify and release stress and trauma. These sensations originate from the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Examples of negative body sensations include clenching muscles, racing pulse, 24

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stomach churning, temperature fluctuations, tightness around the chest and tingling. Steven Bradshaw, a psychologist, somatic experiencing practitioner and founder of Beyond Psychology Center, in Los Angeles, explains that the autonomic nervous system features two sub-systems that regulate safety: the sympathetic nervous system that mobilizes the body for action in dangerous situations and the parasympathetic nervous system to promote calmness and recovery. Chronic stress or trauma can get stuck in the sympathetic nervous system, causing a state of constant alertness. “The body is safety for the mind,” he remarks. “I use a mind-body approach that engages your inner healer to move from states of anxiety, burnout, disconnection and pain into states of goodness, flow and a deep sense of belonging in your own body.” Aimie Apigian, M.D., MS, MPH, founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated and author of The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It, explains, “Somatic therapies are body-based approaches that work at the level of sensation. Sometimes that means creating a sensation of safety in the body, and sometimes it means creating the sensation of overcoming a moment of powerlessness from the past, often through movement,

Matej Kastelic/shutterstock

e are often told to “just breathe” when we feel distressed, overreactive, overstimulated, hyper-vigilant, exhausted or digitally overloaded. Stress is a common consequence of modern life, and sometimes, a few deep breaths can provide relief. However, when stress becomes ever-present and deep-seated, we may need a bit more help to release the tension in our muscles and to lower our heightened blood pressure out of fight-flight-or-freeze mode.

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by finally doing the self-defense movement you were not able to do when the real event happened. The benefit is that we uncouple a sensation from the meaning of danger it got paired with. That can be an internal sensation, like the twisting of your gut, or an external one, like a particular sight or smell. The sensation stops automatically signaling danger, and the body gets to learn a new response rather than only understanding the old one.”

Mind-Body Practices

“As anyone who has ever danced knows, our feelings can be more readily accessed through movement and getting in touch with our body’s sensations, which is what somatic therapy does,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., a board-certified internist specializing in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sleep and pain, as well as the author of several books, including Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps: Eliminating the Root Causes of Chronic Pain. While conventional talk therapy focuses on using the rational mind to release embedded stress, daily body-awareness activities can help people learn to process their tension while building emotional resilience.

Other self-somatic therapies can calm the body and mind, creating a sense of safety, which quiets racing thoughts and brightens the person’s outlook. “The aim of a daily practice is to create a sensation of internal safety or a felt sense of support in the body,” Apigian counsels. Four-Count Breath: An excellent tension reliever and mental refresh, the four-count breath can be performed anywhere at any time. Inhale fully while counting to four, hold for four, exhale for four and pause for four. Repeat up to five times. Body Scan: This exercise is all about interoception and is done by noticing sensations from head to toe while sitting or lying down comfortably. Full-Body Shake: Standing up and shaking arms, legs and shoulders for 30 seconds not only loosen limbs but also relieves pent-up stress. Rolling the head in a circular motion can also release knotted tension at the base of the neck. Humming: The vibrations from humming (either a tune or single note like an “Om”) physically calms the vagus nerve, which

Yevhen Titov/shutterstock

PeopleImages/shutterstock

hands on your opposite shoulders and gently stroke them downward,” he explains.

Amen recommends starting with basic practices, including slow diaphragmatic breathing, daily body movements, good quality sleep and time spent in nature. One of his favorite calming strategies is the butterfly hug to soothe the brain and body. “Simply place your AT CAMINO WELLNESS SANCTUARY

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Feature Story

bidirectionally carries information via electrical and chemical messages to and from the brain. A 2023 study published in the medical journal Cureus involving 23 participants revealed that humming significantly lowered stress biomarkers compared to physical activity and sleep, with positive impacts on the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce the fight-or-flight response. Mindful Movement: Moving with intention and body awareness can deepen in-the-moment joy and appreciation while also reducing anxiety, releasing tension and improving mood. Start with deep breathing, then turn attention inward for a head-to-toe body check

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Find Your Flow. Follow Your Curiosity. www.ModernMysticsRC.com 26

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Guided Imagery: A technique that can be performed alone or with a therapist, guided imagery utilizes breathwork and meditation while envisioning an object or scene, using all of the senses. Capitalizing on the mind-body connection, multi-sensory visualization reduces stress and relaxes muscles.

Guided Therapies

Long-term, somatic therapies with the help of expert practitioners can result in creating healthier habitual emotional patterns, which contribute to repairing mood imbalance and creating sustained well-being. Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases physical tension to enhance relaxation. It focuses on the skull, spine and craniosacral system, which includes the cerebrospinal fluid, fascia and soft tissues surrounding the central nervous system. A 2023 study published in Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland) involving male firefighter cadets found that five weekly sessions of craniosacral therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone. Rolfing somatic movement is a touch-based technique designed to unblock or release protective posture patterns such as shrugged shoulders, bent postures and clenched jawlines from unresolved stress, anxiety and trauma. According to the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute, Rolfing resets the body’s stress response by releasing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue network that surrounds, separates and holds together the body’s muscles, bones, organs, blood vessels and nerve fibers.

rn My ics MoRedseou rc e C e nst t er

while moving. This can be practiced while washing the dishes or participating in a fitness class.

Trauma-sensitive yoga or trauma-informed yoga is designed to cultivate a compassionate awareness of what is happening in the body in the present moment and to develop the ability to take effective action based on that knowledge. It empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental environment and regulate the nervous system. A 2018 qualitative analysis published in International Journal of Stress Management identified key emotional themes that emerged from engaging in trauma-sensitive yoga, including gratitude, compassion, relatedness, acceptance, centeredness and empowerment. Somatic experiencing is a specialized therapy designed to retrain the nervous system by processing trauma in small, manageable sessions. Instead of focusing on the story of the trauma, the therapist guides the client to notice physical sensations, while providing a feeling of safety and well-being. This treatment approach releases vestigial negativity and creates a new, intuitive, more deeply Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

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self-aware and empowered way of sustaining emotional well-being. A 2021 literature review published in European Journal of Psychotraumatology reported that somatic experiencing positively impacts symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, notably reducing affective and somatic complaints while improving overall well-being.

Eye-Movement Therapies

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) centers on moving the eyes in a specific manner while being guided to process traumatic or stressful memories, which are stored differently than normal or happy ones. Reprocessing helps to repair mind injury caused by the traumatic event. Brainspotting (BSP), a newer neuro-based therapy, uses eye position or “brainspots” to access and release unresolved emotional energy stored in the limbic system and subcortical region of the brain. Compared to EMDR, BSP is more somatic and intuitive. In a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, just one 40-minute session of EMDR or BSP was found to have beneficial effects in processing distressing memories.

Finding Relief and Resolution

“Somatic therapies recognize that many emotional and physical symptoms are protective responses rather than a mental disorder, weakness or failure,” says Annie Wright, a licensed psychotherapist and relational trauma specialist. Acknowledging and observing our discomfort paves the way for a healing conversation with ourselves. Sheldon C. Baker is a contributing editor to numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications.

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September 2026

Conscious Eating

Nutritious Nachos

you to use less but still feel like it is prevalent in the overall dish.”

Yummy Ideas Everyone Will Love by Maya Whitman

achos are a classic favorite for fall gatherings, sports parties, game nights and cozy weekends, but traditional versions can quickly become overloaded with oversized portions, excess sodium, unhealthy fats and highly processed ingredients. To make nachos a healthier option, consider making a few simple changes that balance favorite toppings with nutrient-dense ingredients. “It can be tempting to cover everything in cheese or really pile on the meat, but you can actually dial down these indulgent elements and add so much flavor in healthier ways,” says James Rayner, senior editorial manager of FoodFaithFitness, an online resource for simple and healthy recipe ideas.

It all begins with a chip base, protein source, colorful vegetables and fiber-rich toppings such as avocado, fire-roasted tomatoes, fresh salsas, homemade slaws, pickled onions, tangy citrus splashes or fresh chiles. Whalen, also a food blogger and the founder of the online recipe hub The Food in My Beard, reminds us that switching things up doesn’t require eliminating our favorite fixings. “One secret to using indulgent toppings is to make sure everything is chopped up small,” he explains. “You always want to do this anyway, so each chip can hold a mix of all the different ingredients. Doing this with more indulgent nacho toppings allows

Steak or pulled pork lovers can opt for shredded leaner cuts, while seasoned, sautéed ground turkey or chicken breast serves as an excellent substitute for ground beef. Vegans can enjoy meaty textures with sautéed, crumbled tempeh or tofu. And everyone can enjoy the flavorful, hearty protein provided by pinto, black or red kidney beans. Rayner notes, “Whatever protein you’re going for, don’t forget to add plenty of seasoning. You can also try toasted pepitas [pumpkin seeds] or crushed almonds for added taste and texture.” Whalen suggests upgrading the chips, explaining, “Using crispy plantain chips cuts out the extra carbs and fat in traditional tortilla chips. You can even use dehydrated or baked plantains instead of fried.”

Ethnic Inspirations

Although traditionally Tex-Mex, nachos can be most exciting with creative variation. For Rayner, the use of Indian spices can tantalize taste buds and broaden the possibilities. “Think generously spiced tandoori chicken

Mouthwatering Upgrades

Dan Whalen, a lifelong enthusiast for this popular comfort food, authored the cookbook Nachos for Dinner: Surprising Sheet Pan Meals the Whole Family Will Love. “What I love about nachos is that you can make them with leftovers. Just open your fridge and find a combo of things,” he says. 28

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Traditionally, nachos are served as an appetizer, but they can easily be elevated to main meal status. Cumin-spiced mushroom and walnut vegan nachos, chicken nachos with zesty Greek yogurt crema, sheet pan sweet potatoes and black beans, or Mediterranean-based whole-grain pita chips with smashed garbanzos and feta are only a few inspiring examples.

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Middle Eastern green shatta can add an exhilarating element to any nacho dish.

with red onion, cilantro and a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and mint,” muses the editor. He also favors the idea of a deconstructed Greek gyro with “thinly sliced lamb or beef, charred bell peppers, chopped herbs and a garlicky Greek yogurt drizzle to finish.”

Assembly Tips

For optimal tortilla nachos every time, Rayner recommends briefly toasting the chips in the oven for two to three minutes to unlock nutty flavors and enhance the crunch. “After that, layer your toppings. Veggies can release a lot of moisture, so scatter your protein over your chip base first, then cheese and vegetables afterward. Repeat the layer if you want to go all out.”

Whalen embraces Italian flavors, recreating a loaded sandwich. “I use all the typical meats, and when it comes out of the oven, I add a ‘salad’ of romaine lettuce, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini.” Drizzling punchy sauces such as sweet yet savory Mexican chamoy made from pickled apricots, plums or mangoes, or bright and spicy

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ro vaP d from D psy 3D/Can o

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

KETO-GREEN NACHOS YIELD: 2 SERVINGS FOR THE QUESO

FOR THE NACHOS 1 large zucchini, sliced into round “chips” 2 Tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil ½ cup bell pepper (any color), chopped 8 oz cooked chicken, shredded 2-3 Tbsp fresh or jarred tomato salsa 1 cup greens of choice, chopped ½ cucumber, chopped 1 vine-ripe tomato, chopped ½ cup guacamole To prepare the queso, place cashews in a small saucepan and cover with water. Heat to boiling. Remove from heat and cover the pot. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then drain and place in a blender. Add ¼ cup water, sea salt, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, turmeric and

Courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca

1 cup raw cashews ¼ cup water 1 tsp sea salt 1½ Tbsp lemon juice 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast ½ tsp turmeric 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies

diced tomatoes with green chilies. Blend until smooth. Store in a jar in the refrigerator, reserving ½ cup for the nachos. To prepare and assemble the nachos, heat the avocado oil on medium heat in a medium skillet. Add the chopped bell pepper and sauté until it begins to soften. Stir in the shredded chicken and salsa. Cook and stir until heated. Place the mixture in a bowl and keep warm. Heat the zucchini rounds in the skillet until tender. Divide the zucchini between two plates and top it with the chicken, bell pepper and salsa mixture. Heat ½ cup of the queso; stir and spoon it over the “nachos”. Top with chopped greens, cucumbers, tomatoes and guacamole. Note: For variation, use ground beef or tempeh seasoned with taco seasoning; add different combinations of greens and other vegetables; or add nondairy sour cream. Recipe courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca.

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September 2026

Recipe From a Farmers Market Kitchen

Beyond Eggplant Parmesan Fresh Ideas From the Farmers Market by Jenna Smith, MPH, RDN

When shopping at the market, choose eggplants that are firm, heavy for their size, and free of wrinkles or bruises. It’s best to eat them as fresh as possible, but they can be stored in the refrigerator and used within five to seven days. Eggplant is best cooked and can be baked, sautéed, broiled, roasted or grilled. Try adding it to stirfries, pasta dishes, curries, soups, stews and casseroles. It can also be stuffed with vegetables, grains or meat for a satisfying main dish. Eggplant is perhaps best known for eggplant parmesan and baba ghanoush, a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with mashed eggplant, oil and seasonings. Whether or not to peel an eggplant depends on the variety, recipe and personal preference. Baby eggplants and slender varieties, such as Japanese eggplant, have thin, tender skins that soften when cooked and can be left on. For dips and spreads, peeling can create a smoother texture. If you’re not sure which you prefer, try preparing eggplant with and without the skin to see what you like best. The big purple vegetable may look intimidating, but don’t let it fool you; eggplant is easy to prepare and delicious.

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SMOKY EGGPLANT ZAALOUK (DIP) YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

Photo credit: Jenna Smith

ggplant is much more than a funny name and an unusual shape. This farmers market favorite is versatile, nutritious and tasty. While the deep-purple, elongated variety may be the one you recognize best, farmers market growers often offer many other types. You may find eggplants that are white, lavender, green, striped, round, oval or petite. Naturally low in calories, eggplant contains virtually no fat, cholesterol or sodium. It also provides dietary fiber and antioxidants, making it a flavorful and nutritious addition to meals.

¼ cup olive oil 1 eggplant, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces* 1 14.5-oz can diced tomatoes, drained 3 garlic cloves, minced* 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1½ tsp honey* 1½ tsp smoked paprika ⅛ tsp salt ½ tsp cumin ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper 2 Tbsp fresh chopped cilantro* *Items may be available at local farmers markets.

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add all ingredients except cilantro; cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until vegetables are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover and crush vegetables with a potato masher, or transfer to a food processor and pulse until desired consistency is reached. Stir in cilantro. Serve warm or cold as a dip with grilled bread, as a sandwich spread, or with grilled meats or vegetables. Nutrition facts (per serving): 116 calories, 8 grams fat, 199 milligrams sodium, 10 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 2 grams protein. Jenna Smith is a food and nutrition educator with University of Illinois Extension and board member of the Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA). ILFMA supports local food and food systems by giving Illinois farmers markets and producers access to resources, education and connections to grow healthier and economically vibrant communities. For more information, visit ilfma.org.

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September 2026

Local Food Dispatch

How an Indoor Farm Is Helping Revitalize Waukegan The College of Lake County’s Urban Farm Center will expand fresh food access, workforce training and community revitalization. by Bob Benenson

Waukegan Rising

When many Chicago-area residents think of Lake County, their mental image is that of affluent North Shore suburbs such as Lake Forest and Highland Park. Waukegan has a very different profile. Long a bustling commercial and industrial hub, Waukegan’s downtown was a quiet place on July 28 when I visited the Urban Farm Center project with Fournier. Decades of industrial decline and factory closures left behind vacant storefronts and legacy environmental challenges. Lake County contains eight of Illinois’ 11 Environmental Protection Agency Superfund sites, with five situated in Waukegan alone.

Photo by Bob Benenson

When Eliza Fournier joined the College of Lake County (CLC) as urban farm director in late 2021, she took on the challenge of turning that vision into reality. A 20-year veteran of the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Windy City Harvest urban agriculture program—where she led development of the Farm on Ogden, in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood—Fournier and her team are now putting the finishing touches on the Urban Farm Center at the school’s Lakeshore Campus on Sheridan Road. The center is scheduled for a soft opening on October 17, with daily public access beginning in January.

The culmination of the project will mark much more than the addition of a growing facility to the college campus. Located in the county seat and longstanding industrial heart, the $20 million project represents a major investment in community health, local food access and urban revitalization.

Overhead view of the Urban Farm Center 32

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resh food, job training and community revitalization are coming together under one roof in downtown Waukegan. Opening this fall, the new Urban Farm Center is designed to expand access to fresh food, support workforce development and strengthen the local food system for residents throughout the region.

A growing unit in the Urban Farm Center Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Despite these historical hurdles, energy is shifting. The Lake County government complex, Waukegan’s largest employer, has provided some economic stability.

Through funding from the RFSI grant, the center is equipped with commercial walk-in coolers, loading docks and wash-and-pack stations. Local growers can drop off wholesale or raw produce to be washed, packed or stored.

The Urban Farm Center aims to accelerate this momentum. This project was conceived around 2018 by a coalition of Lake County stakeholders, philanthropic organizations and community leaders. It took firm root when then-CLC President Lori Suddick and the board of trustees adopted it into the college’s master plan. Ground was broken in May 2025, with funding coming through a combination of private philanthropy, public grants—such as a Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture—and college capital.

Transparency, Accessibility and a Community ‘Front Door’

Unlike traditional commercial indoor farms—which often operate inside windowless, corrugated metal buildings—CLC’s Urban Farm Center was deliberately designed with transparency in mind. Located directly along the sidewalk, expansive glass windows will allow passersby to look straight into the growing and gathering spaces. Inside, the ground level will serve as a social and community hub featuring a retail store stocked with fresh produce, healthy locally produced snacks and coffee. The shop will also house an expanded version of CLC’s campus bookstore.

Cutting-Edge Growing and Workforce Development

Upstairs, the facility turns into an active classroom and production engine. Designed as an educational and workforce development node, the farm utilizes multiple indoor growing techniques:

Photo by Bob Benenson

Unlike many cities that lost big parts of their industrial bases, Waukegan’s population has remained steady, in large part because of an influx of Hispanic residents that made up nearly 60 percent of the city’s population, according to the 2020 census.

This setup provides double benefits: It frees up valuable time for small-scale farmers while supplying the farm store and local institutional buyers, like hospitals and schools, with fresh, aggregated regional produce.

Eliza Fournier

The facility also houses a state-of-the-art commercial shared kitchen built to accommodate up to four food businesses simultaneously. Outfitted with specialized equipment—including a 40-gallon tilt kettle, a combi oven, commercial dehydrators, and locked dry and cold storage—the kitchen will allow local food entrepreneurs, caterers and value-added producers to scale their production without enduring crippling capital expenses.

Deep water culture hydroponics: The primary vertical growing room utilizes nutrient-rich water channels to cultivate leafy greens. According to Fournier, the initial buildout alone can yield up to 36,000 heads of lettuce per year, with capacity to double production to 72,000 heads as market demand grows. Controlled-environment greenhouse: A semi-controlled space designed for Dutchbucket-style growing will produce seasonal crops like tomatoes and cucumbers from September through April, leaving summer production to regional outdoor farms. Mushroom lab: A specialized, climatecontrolled laboratory dedicated to specialty mushroom cultivation. To maintain strict food safety standards and simulate real-world commercial operations, the facility includes dedicated gowning areas, personal protective equipment protocols, locker rooms and processing spaces. Students and workforce trainees will gain hands-on experience in hydroponics, food safety and post-harvest handling, earning credentials that seamlessly transition into career pathways or higher degrees at CLC.

Aggregation and Shared Infrastructure for Local Farmers

Beyond indoor production, the Urban Farm Center is built to serve as a regional aggregation and processing hub for northeastern Illinois farmers.

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Looking Ahead

The Urban Farm Center will celebrate its official ribbon-cutting on October 17, coinciding with Waukegan’s monthly ArtWauk festivities and ZombieWauk. The center is expected to welcome the public on a daily basis beginning in January. By combining urban agriculture, small business incubation, public health and educational access right in the heart of downtown Waukegan, Fournier and the team at CLC are cultivating a brighter, more resilient local food future for Lake County. 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.

Farming is a profession of Hope. —Brett Brian

September 2026

Fit Body

Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility Simple Poses for Real-Life Strength and Stability by Marlaina Donato

oga is often regarded as a practice reserved for the ultra-flexible, deeply spiritual or highly athletic—but at its core, it can simply be a practical tool for helping the body move and feel better. Individuals with compromised mobility can greatly benefit from intentional movements that incorporate stretching, balance and breath awareness. Rather than focusing on achieving perfect poses or extreme flexibility, functional yoga emphasizes sustainable movement patterns that improve joint health, posture, stability and body awareness. Yoga-inspired movements can reduce stiffness, support recovery, improve balance and help prevent injury—regardless of age, fitness level or experience. The goal is not performance or perfection; it is about maintaining freedom of movement and helping the body function more comfortably in daily activities such as walking, lifting, reaching, driving, cleaning and gardening.

Non-Demanding Postures

Tim Senesi, a Southern California yoga instructor who offers instructional videos for beginners on his Yoga With Tim YouTube channel, says, “Loss of mobility is one of the primary drivers of injury and physical decline later in life. A consistent yoga practice is one

of the most powerful things a person can do to stay functional and pain-free at any age. It gives us a daily opportunity to counter all the sitting, screen time and repetitive patterns that compress the body over time. The body is remarkably intelligent. Yoga helps us get out of its way and meets you where you are.” Noting that non-demanding yoga postures like Tree Pose and Mountain Pose encourage ankle, hip and core stability over time, Senesi points out, “We’re lengthening tissues under load and teaching the body to own the space it’s moving into. As we age, this becomes critical.” For beginners, he recommends less intensive types of yoga such as hatha or vinyasa slow flow. “Aim for consistency over intensity, and don’t underestimate short sessions,” he counsels. “Ten to 20 minutes done consistently every day will take you further than a long class once a week. The nervous system learns through repetition, not duration, and short, frequent practice is where real change happens.” Senesi recommends the following poses, adding that notable mobility improvements are possible within two to three weeks of consistent practice: Cat-Cow for spinal mobility and low-back health: On hands and knees, inhale as the belly drops and chest lifts, then exhale as the spine rounds up. Let the breath lead the movement.

Images by Kris Han/CanvaPro

Low Lunge to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting by opening the hip flexors: Step one foot forward, lower the back knee to the floor and breathe. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per side.

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Reclined Supine Twist to improve rotational mobility: Lying on the back, draw one knee to the chest and guide it across the body. Hold each side at least 60 seconds. Legs Up the Wall for recovery, improved circulation and calming of the nervous system: Sit sideways as close to a wall as possible before lying down and extending the legs vertically against the wall. Rest in this position for five to 10 minutes. Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

Living Room Yoga

Tamantha Yanders, a yoga instructor and owner of Living Room Yoga, in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, notes that poor posture is a learned habit, suggesting that rounded shoulders, forward head positions and tight hips can improve with yoga-inspired routines. “Every time you access a joint with movement, you are lubricating the mechanism and supporting mobility,” she notes,

As a starting point for those with limited mobility, Yanders recommends a gentle or chair yoga class, or even a few private classes for personalized attention. “Most importantly, I support learning to work with how your body is now, not how you think it should be,” she says. Here are a few moves in her arsenal; aim for 10 to 20 repetitions per side: Side Bends: Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and place hands on the hips. Slowly bend the upper body to the right, return to the center and then bend the upper body to the left. Focus on lengthening the spine on each inhale and deepening the stretch on each exhale. Seated Ankle on Thigh: Sit straight up in a chair, lift one ankle and place it on the opposite thigh. Use one hand to gently press down on the knee of the crossed leg to open

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adding that even individuals that are not very flexible can benefit from such movements.

the hip. Then cup the crossed knee with the opposite hand and draw it across the body toward the opposite shoulder to stretch the gluteus muscle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing normally. Head Twist: Gently and slowly turn the head over each shoulder to release neck tension, keeping eyes level. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWood Smoke.com.

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September 2026

Healing Ways

Inner Balance: Finding it Through Awareness by Ellen Radha Katz, MS, LMFT

The phrase inner balance conjures up images of equanimity, self-control and composure. This imagined sense of being self-possessed—empowered, nonreactive, steady and in control—evokes our highest yearnings. Yet, most of us have never known anyone that actually embodies these qualities. How, then, can we ever find inner balance? Thankfully, it isn’t inner balance that we really need. The ingredient we need for those qualities to emerge is simple and subtle. It’s awareness. With present-time awareness, we can sense the subtle cues in our environment that offer us guidance, and we can learn the wisdom of our bodies. This sharpens the skills we need to navigate life. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, an ancient Indic text, methodically teaches us how to calm our overactive minds and free ourselves from mental and emotional suffering. It identifies two essentials for this relief: practice (abhyasa) and detachment (vairagya). Regular practices, like taking a quiet walk, focusing on slowing the breath, immersing ourselves in nature or in dance, art, music or other self-soothing, regulating activities, will quiet the mind. With repetition, the 36

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or so many of us, the search for inner balance has been a lifelong project, a grinding process with little lasting success. We juggle too many responsibilities, suffer too much stress, can’t find time for renewal and can’t sustain a sense of calm. The inner critic goes wild, finding any opportunity to cast judgment. These and other reactive states feed our roller coaster lives, keeping us unstable and, more often than not, stressed.

body remembers these good feelings. It becomes more natural—even instinctive—to return to that calm state.

urgency. We often jump to conclusions or seek immediate solutions that we may later question or regret.

Neuropsychology teaches us about the brain’s neuroplasticity. Ever evolving, its growth and strength come from “lighting up” the brain’s connections with repetition.

We believe our feelings and thoughts, but we rarely stop to question them.

A calm brain opens the door to aspects of awareness we can’t access when we’re imbued with intense emotion or anxiety. It allows us to have greater access to our prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain needed for the wise mind to show up. This includes greater access to our intuition and complex thinking. Anxiety, sadly, limits this access. With any emotional charge, the brain shifts into survival mode, activating the fight-flight-freeze response. This distorts our interpretation of the perception or experience, launching us into black-and-white thinking or a sense of

If we want to discover our true nature—the Self that, when present, is confident, observant, discerning and wise—we need to become the witness to the state we’re in. That includes checking in with our body’s felt sense, our thoughts and attitude. Getting emotionally triggered is telling us we need to stop and slow down. There’s a simple practice called PBS, which reminds us to pause, breathe and slow down. PBS can be spontaneous, scheduled or both. The breath should be gentle and intentional, through the nose if possible. After inhaling, allow a brief pause, then begin a slow, deliberate exhalation that is longer than the

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inhalation. Repeating this cycle a number of times helps regulate the body and mind. After six to 12 repetitions, sit quietly for a minute, breathing naturally. This deepens the impact of the practice. PBS is not about perfection. Any variation on the breathing will work as long as it’s slow and intentional. Once we develop a PBS practice, we have an open door to a more mature, wise version of ourselves. That part recognizes stress at its first hint and does not get as triggered as it once did. We can access calmness or a state of shantam (Sanskrit for “peace”). Now the doorway to the final gift: discernment. The ability to sense the difference between what is life-enhancing and what is life-depleting allows us to see what will serve us and what will harm us. This gives us access to innate, internal wisdom. The inner knower can guide us and show us where to set boundaries, recognize what we’re feeling and direct us toward how to care for ourselves. None of this is really about inner balance, then. There’s no such thing. Rather, it’s about coming back to the present moment where we can practice PBS, become aware and receive inner guidance. Every one of us is born with an internal Wise Self—a witness and a wise, compassionate friend. Accessing this internal wisdom offers us the safety we need to stay with ourselves even when we experience discomfort. This ability grows as we slow down, spend time with ourselves and become present.

mature, heal and evolve, one moment at a time.

Anxiety, distraction and mental chaos will never entirely disappear. Building these new habits protects us. When they arise, we use PBS and intentionally slow down the nervous system. We allow wisdom to emerge. With a heartfelt commitment to these practices, we can

Ellen Katz is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical director at Inner Balance, with virtual offices in Chicago and Los Angeles. For more information, visit EllenRadhaKatz.com. See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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Healing Ways

Kundalini Yoga for the Aquarian Age

he transition into the Aquarian Age is often described as a shift in human consciousness rather than a single historical event. In astrology, each age lasts roughly two thousand years, and the Age of Aquarius is said to follow the Age of Pisces. While dates are debated, many people associate this transition with growing interest in equality, innovation, spirituality and global cooperation.

by Coka for AdobeStock

by Puranpreet Kaur Fiore, E-RYT 500 practitioners to withdraw from the challenges of everyday life, Kundalini Yoga emphasizes developing the inner clarity, vitality and presence needed to respond with intention rather than reaction.

Aquarius is traditionally linked with originality, progress and collective thinking. For that reason, the Aquarian Age is imagined as a time when humanity moves away from rigid hierarchies and toward shared knowledge, community and humanitarian ideals. The rapid rise of digital technology, worldwide communication and social movements is often seen as evidence of this emerging influence.

For many seekers, these qualities make Kundalini Yoga especially attractive during the Aquarian Age. As society becomes increasingly fast-paced, interconnected and information-driven, the practice encourages students to release fear and limiting beliefs while expanding compassion, intuition and authentic self-expression. Whether viewed through the lens of astrology or simply as a path of personal growth, Kundalini Yoga offers practical tools to help people meet change with greater balance, purpose and acceptance.

At the same time, transitions between astrological ages are believed to be gradual and sometimes turbulent. Old systems may resist change even as new values take root. This can create tension, uncertainty and cultural division, but also opportunities for growth and renewal.

Seen either literally through astrology or symbolically as a cultural metaphor, the transition into the Aquarian Age represents hope for a more connected and enlightened world. It suggests a future shaped by cooperation, curiosity and a deeper awareness of our shared human experience.

Kundalini Yoga has long been regarded as a practical guide for navigating times of personal and collective change. Combining movement, breathwork, meditation, mantra and sound, the practice is designed to regulate the nervous system, revitalize the endocrine system and balance the chakras. Instead of encouraging

Puranpreet Kaur Fiore is a Kundalini Yoga specialist, lead trainer and mentor, an Astarian minister and the founder of Creation Yoga, in Wheeling. For more information, call 847-890-8119 or visit CreationYoga.com. See ad on page 35, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

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September 2026

Natural Pet

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

mental health through several interconnected pathways, including neural signaling via the vagus nerve, an immune response like inflammation, and the microbial production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The review also notes that anxiety disorders in dogs have been linked to dysbiosis—an imbalance in the gut microbiome, when beneficial microorganisms decrease and harmful ones overgrow.

The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

reactivity, indicating that some anxious behavior is a physiological issue rather than purely behavioral.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection

The vagus nerve directly connects the gut and the brain, carrying signals in both directions. According to a 2024 review article published in Veterinary Medicine International, microbes in the gut can influence canine

TatyanaGl from Getty Images/CanvaPro

nxious behavior in dogs and cats has traditionally been seen as a training problem or brain chemistry issue, often treated with obedience work, management tools or behavior medication. However, recent veterinary research points to another piece of the puzzle sitting lower in the body: the gut. Emerging science on the gut-brain axis suggests that an inflamed or imbalanced gut can send stress signals that influence mood, focus and

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A 2025 study in Scientific Reports examined gut microbiota composition in companion dogs and found that specific bacterial groups, including Blautia, were consistently associated with higher owner-reported anxiety and aggression scores. Additional research is needed before researchers can conclude whether specific microbial flora actually cause anxiety or if high-stress environments and anxious behaviors physically alter the canine gut environment.

Noticing the Symptoms

Chronic, low-grade gut inflammation in dogs or cats manifests through observable nervous system responses such as pacing, panting, difficulty settling, leash reactivity and fear-based reactions that seem disproportionate to the situation. Trouble focusing during training, especially with digestive upset, is also common. These signs alone do not confirm a gut-related cause but warrant veterinary attention to rule out other conditions. One case, Sadie, a 5-year-old Labrador retriever, had little success with multiple anti-anxiety medications and a behavioral trainer. Her history revealed chronic soft stool and repeated antibiotic courses for suspected colitis, previously unconnected to her behavior. A gut-focused protocol, combined with her existing medication, led to steady improvement over several weeks.

Addressing the Root Causes

Integrative veterinarian Odette Suter, author of What Your Vet Never Told You: Secrets to

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Assembling a Health Team

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For pets on anxiety medication, the gut-mind connection is not a reason to stop it, but rather invites asking additional questions with the veterinary team, such as, “What else can support the body as a whole?” Citing a concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suter states, “That’s what the Chinese call the root and branch approach. The focus is on the root, but also on the branches, which are the symptoms, just to make sure the animal is not too uncomfortable.” Medication may calm the brain’s response, but if the gut remains inflamed, caregivers may be addressing only part of the issue. Gut health and mental health are interconnected for dogs and cats, and treating them separately may explain why some anxious pets never fully settle. A whole-animal view—one that includes the gut—provides the pet and the veterinary team a comprehensive approach. Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

Supporting Peak Health for Your Animal, criticizes symptom-chasing in both conventional and holistic pet care. “There is too much focus on the symptoms and alleviating symptoms, and not so much about asking why, what is going on. We really need to understand the physiology, the pathophysiology and what’s happening when the animals aren’t healthy.” Looking at the whole animal and viewing anxiety and digestive upset as interconnected problems allows caregivers to ask a broader question: What is driving both? Suter also notes that fixing the gut is complex, pointing to numerous factors, including hormone balance, which often need attention alongside gut issues.

Improving the Diet

Small, consistent changes at home can support gut balance alongside veterinary care. Moving away from highly processed diets toward fresh, minimally processed food may promote healthier gut flora over time. Targeted probiotic support can help restore microbial diversity, although strain and dose vary by individual and should be discussed with a veterinarian. Digestive enzymes support the breakdown of food, and long-chain, omega-3 fatty acids sourced from fish oil or algae have been shown in a 2007 study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association to regulate inflammatory and immune responses in dogs. Introduce any new supplement gradually and consult the pet’s veterinarian, especially for animals that are already undergoing treatment. Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

September 2026

Homeopathy

Homeopathy Under the Microscope An Evidence-Based Look at a Controversial Therapy by Athena Eamon

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Reviewed by Lauri Grossman, DC, CCH, RSHom(NA)

o evaluate evidence-based research for a health treatment, it is important to comprehend the research methodology, study design, included and excluded evidence, and the potential existence of bias in the study’s design, execution or funding. This understanding is essential before drawing any conclusions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of medical treatments with minimal bias and determining if an intervention surpasses placebo effects. However, individualized homeopathy poses unique methodological challenges that differ 42

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from testing a standardized pharmaceutical drug. Unlike conventional RCT drug trials, where all participants with the same diagnosis typically receive the same medication and dose and are evaluated uniformly over specified time periods, classical homeopathy is tailored to the individual patient rather than the disease diagnosis. Two patients with migraines, seasonal allergies or arthritis may receive different remedies based on their physical symptoms, emotional state, sleep patterns, food cravings, environmental sensitivities, personality traits and constitution. As a result, researchers designing

and conducting homeopathy trials face the following challenges that hinder the use of testing models developed for single pharmaceutical compounds: • Participants with the same diagnosis often receive different remedies, making it difficult to standardize interventions across a trial. • Homeopaths frequently adjust remedies as symptoms evolve, whereas conventional RCTs require treatments to remain fixed throughout the study. • Homeopathic care includes lengthy consultations, individualized assessments,

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follow-up visits and therapeutic relationships that may independently contribute to outcomes beyond the remedy itself.

conditions and post-surgical recovery, but the certainty of evidence remains low to moderate due to study limitations.

• Patients may seek improvements in well-being, energy, resilience or quality of life in addition to symptom relief, yet clinical trials measure only disease-specific endpoints.

The Scientific Debate Extends Beyond Clinical Trials

What Clinical Studies Demonstrate

Many studies on homeopathy exist, but their quality differs greatly. Some treatments, such as Arnica montana for pain management, show more promising evidence than others. Systematic reviews, which are toptier research tools that compile, evaluate and synthesize empirical studies, find the evidence on homeopathy inconclusive due to issues like small sample sizes, inconsistent study designs, varying prescribing methods, difficulty blinding individualized treatments, publication bias and poor methodologies. These limitations prevent the determination of whether benefits are due to specific homeopathic effects, nonspecific therapeutic effects, placebo responses or a combination of all three.

Some Reviews Reach Divergent Conclusions

Systematic reviews can reach different conclusions due to varying inclusion criteria. One review might include all studies regardless of quality, while another might focus only on larger trials or low-riskof-bias studies. These design differences affect the conclusions. For example, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council found no reliable evidence supporting homeopathy for any health condition after analyzing only studies with strict methodological criteria. By contrast, a meta-analysis conducted by the University of Bern in Germany specifically focused on individualized homeopathy. The analysis concluded that statistically significant effects may exist for treating conditions such as childhood diarrhea, respiratory

Perhaps the greatest controversy about homeopathy pertains to its mechanism rather than its clinical outcomes. Many homeopathic medicines are diluted beyond Avogadro’s limit, leaving no measurable molecules of the original substance. Conventional chemistry and pharmacology struggle to explain how these highly diluted remedies could produce biological effects. Homeopathy researchers argue that these findings, along with advances in understanding complex biological systems, justify further investigation into mechanisms involving nanostructures, water organization, electromagnetic signaling and other physical processes that are not yet fully understood.

A Growing Consensus for More Research Arises

Scientists on both sides of the homeopathy debate agree that future research must combine the methodological rigor of randomized trials with study designs that more accurately reflect clinical practice. This requires larger sample sizes, transparent

reporting, standardized outcome measures, longer follow-up periods and independent replication across multiple research centers. Additionally, homeopathy study designs should better align the research methodology with the intervention being studied without sacrificing scientific rigor. The goal is to maintain the standard for evidence while formulating research questions that accurately represent the personalized nature of homeopathy practice. This approach will yield clearer insights into where homeopathy offers meaningful benefits, where it falls short and how it can best contribute to evidence-informed, patient-centered integrative healthcare. Athena Eamon is a researcher and parent with nearly two decades of experience studying and using homeopathy, integrative health and whole-person wellness. Dr. Lauri Grossman has more than 30 years of experience as an integrative care expert, chiropractor, classical homeopath and global educator. Underwritten by Grato Health, in operation since 1987, dedicated to advancing health and wellness through natural, holistic solutions that support the body’s ability to heal.

Join us in Washington, DC

26TH ANNUAL

WISE TRADITIONS CONFERENCE October 16-18, 2026 • wisetraditions.org

CONNECT

1200 attendees 75 exhibitors

LEARN

40 speakers

NOURISH

5 farm-to-table meals

A vibrant weekend of talks, socializing and delicious food SPEAKERS: Josh and Adam Bigelsen, Del Bigtree, Natasha Campbell-McBride, Laura Delano, Ben Edwards, Catherine Austin Fitts, Chris Knobbe, Joseph Ladapo, Thomas Massie, Sally Fallon Morell, Thaddeus Owen, Toby Rogers, Joel Salatin and many others! Volunteer Opportunities • Children’s Program • Saturday Night Banquet Special Rates for 13-20 Year Olds • Continuing Education Units • Farm Tour

3 Days with 5 Meals: $500 wisetraditions.org (703) 820-3333 $50 off registration Sept 1-18. Use code: NA

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September 2026

Calendar of Events

Tuesday, September 1

Saturday, September 5

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Third Ward Art Festival – Sept 5-6. 10am5pm. Showcases the work of nearly 200 juried artists from around the country in a variety of mediums. Interact with artists through demonstrations and booth chats and can even take part in “Start to Paint” onsite painting classes. Kid-Friendly Art Tent, live music, great food and drink options. Free admission. Third Ward, 345 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI. AmdurProductions.com.

Wednesday, September 2 Green Drinks McHenry County – 5-7pm. 1st Wed. Come talk about “greening” the future with others. Special presentations each month on a timely topic. cdef.org/Green-Drinks/. Ankh LifeForce Alignment Reiki – 5-9pm. With Rose. Also Sept 10, 13, 19, 23. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Gather and Game – 5-7pm. 1st & 3rd Sat. Bring your favorite board game, card game or tabletop game for an evening of games, friendly competition and community. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. FoodShed.coop.

Thursday, September 3

Sunday, September 6

All the Small Things Stroll – 6-7:30pm. Take a closer look at lichens, fungi, fall leaves, frogs, birds and other small forest details while learning about their roles in the ecosystem. May include hiking about 2 miles over uneven terrain. Ages 8+. Free. O’Hara Woods Preserve, Romeoville. Register by Sept 1: 815-722-9301. ReconnectWithNature.org. Energy Light Infusion Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Join certified Reconnection Practitioners Lisa Seyring and Virginia Adams for an evening of meditation, frequency-based energy interaction and individual mini-sessions using the Reconnective Healing spectrum. $33. Inner Haven Spiritual & Creative Center, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. Email: TheLoveTeam@ My-InnerHaven.com. My-InnerHaven.com. Tickets: My-InnerHaven.com/event-details/energy-light-infusion-healing-circle-2026-09-03-19-00.

Friday, September 4 Janmashtami (Hinduism) Sights of September Afternoon Paddle – 1-3pm. Paddle the confluence of the Des Plaines and DuPage rivers with certified kayak instructors while taking in September scenery and watching for migrating birds. Previous kayaking experience required. Equipment provided. Ages 12+. $20. McKinley Woods – Kerry Sheridan Grove. Register by Sept 2: 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org. Bombs Away for Butterflies – 6-7:30pm. Create milkweed seed bombs to take home and plant in late fall while learning about monarch migration, the importance of milkweed and ways to support pollinators. Ages 8+. $5. Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Register by Sept 2: 815-722-9879. ReconnectWithNature.org.

Chicago

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See NAChicago.com for latest events

Monday, September 7 Labor Day See NAChicago.com for latest events

Tuesday, September 8 Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Tuesdays, Sept 8-Nov 10. 10am-1pm. Learn how to give a basic 1-hr shiatsu treatment that you can share with friends and family. Course is a stand-alone offering and is also the first 30 hrs of our complete shiatsu certification programs. $500 plus textbook. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Green Drinks Libertyville – 6:30pm. 2nd Tues. Data Center Update. Lake County Commissioner John Wasik will discuss their impact, pending legislation and the questions we all should ask. Pizzeria de Ville, 404 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville. For more info: Facebook.com/greendrinkslibertyville or GreenDrinks.org. Can’t Sit Still Without Feeling Guilty? – 6:30-8:30pm. A monthly in-person practice in doing nothing for people who don’t know how to stop. Includes breathwork and movement followed by 20-30 minutes of silence and a gong. Breathwork and movement facilitated by Troy. Hosted by Tami. $55. SolFlo Life, 1834 W North Ave, Fl 2, Chicago. 312-206-9089.

Wednesday, September 9 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.

Moon Alchemy Journey: Six Moons of Intention – Sept-Feb 2027. 7-9pm. A 6-part experiential series designed to help you cultivate a meaningful intention through lunar wisdom, guided journaling, practical rituals, crystals and crystal-grid work. $55/class. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Thursday, September 10 New Moon – Moon of Deer Has Full Tail Winter Fur Beginning Zen Shiatsu – Thursdays, Sept 10-Nov 12. 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.

Friday, September 11 Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown (Judaism) Wild Stillness Overnight Retreat: Connecting to the Wisdom within the Herd – Sept 11-12. Spend all of our waking hours in the stillness of the pasture and horses. You will be held in a warm, nurturing environment, free from expectations, where observation, enjoyment and discovery unfold at their own pace. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com. Soul Care Days – 9:30am-2pm. Since you make a difference for others, we want to make a difference for you. Have the opportunity to share the gifts and struggles you are faced with. This day is about unwinding, connecting back to nature and giving yourself time to be. $65. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com. Sound Bath with Frances Murphy – 7-8pm. Join certified sound healer Frances Murphy for a guided sound bath using crystal singing bowls, crystal singing pyramid, chimes and other sound instruments. Experience rest, relaxation and a soothing meditative state while allowing stuck energies or emotions to release. $30. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Saturday, September 12 Modern Mystics Resource Center at TheosoFEST – Visit their booth and The Frequency Awakening Experience. Learn about upcoming educational programs, integrative wellness experiences, innovative technologies and ways to become part of a growing community dedicated to cultivating conscious human potential. Theosophical Society, 1926 N Main St, Wheaton. 630-668-1571 x 315. Theosophical.org/theosofest. ModernMysticsRC.com.

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Fall Native Plant Sale – 9-11am. Warm soil, cooler air, generous sun and steady rain give new roots the perfect head start before the first frost rolls in. Indian Hill Park, 131 Wilson St, Winnetka. GoGreenIllinois.org.

SAVE THE DATE 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 Table Thai Shiatsu – Sept 12-13. 10am5pm. Workshop includes therapeutic and clinical applications using table shiatsu as its focus. The training’s goal is for the therapists to integrate movement, energetic channels and anatomical specificity into their existing work. 12 CEs. $360. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Mercado de Intercambio – 11am-3pm. Chef Cook Off! Local chefs will come together to share some of their favorite ways to transform the ingredients in our weekly food box to something seasonally delicious and nutritious. Cooking demo participants get up to $15 in coupons to use. Davis Square Park, 4459 S Marshfield Ave, Chicago. PlantChicago.org. ONLINE: Chicago IANDS – 2pm. Support/ study/resource forum for near-death, outof-body and spiritual experiences, losses. Guest Speaker: Dawn Silver, astrologist, spiritual teacher, who will bring us up to date on what has been happening astrologically during this amazing year. Become a free subscriber to Chicago IANDS by filling in the form online. $20 tax-deductible donation requested (see website). For more info: 847-251-5758 or ChicagoIANDS.org. Crystal Talk: Crystals To Enhance Your Life – 2-3:30pm. Explore high-vibrational crystals that can uplift vibration and clear energy in the home, workspace or energy field. September’s focus includes crystals for the crown chakra and above, including charoite, azurite, apophyllite and clear quartz. $25. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com. Aura Energy Scan & Reiki Healing – 2-5pm. With Karen Ziemek. Each 60-minute session includes an aura scan and reiki to foster peace and clarity. $90. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. To schedule: 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com. Deep Rest: Return to the Divine Feminine-A Reiki & Sound Bath Experience – 7-8:30pm. Restorative experience com-

bining sound and reiki to support deep relaxation, stress relief, emotional renewal and inner balance. Sound bath with Kate Kent and Reiki with Tina Santana and Mary Keiser. No prior experience necessary. $44. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com. Deep Rest: Return to the Divine Feminine-A Reiki & Sound Bath Experience – 7-8:30pm. Restorative experience combining sound and reiki to support deep relaxation, stress relief, emotional renewal and inner balance. Sound bath with Kate Kent and Reiki with Tina Santana and Mary Keiser. No prior experience necessary. $44. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Sunday, September 13 Introduction to Myofascial Release – 9am6pm. Work smarter, not harder, during your massage therapy session by learning to incorporate Myofascial Release techniques. This approach works without lubrication, using intention and patience to provide a gentle, slow, sustained pressure into the fascial restriction barriers. 8 CEs. $240. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Our Vagus in Virgo Wellness Fair – 2-5pm. Wellness fair presented by Midwest Cleanse featuring educational presentations on colon hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, nutrition, frequency healing, nervous system regulation, red light therapy, astrology and reiki. Includes an exhibit hall with presenters, specialty foods, spices, oils and more. $10 suggested donation. Lincoln-Peterson Medical Professional Building, 5962 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. RSVP: 773-728-6800 or Info@ MidwestCleanse.com. MidwestCleanse.com.

Monday, September 14 Fermentation Basics: Kimchi and Sauerkraut – 10-11am. Join longtime fermenters, Young Lim Lee and Eric Carlberg of Hongik Eco Farm for a hands-on introduction to 2 beloved fermented foods: kimchi and sauerkraut. Learn basic recipes and preparation techniques, creative variations, troubleshooting tips and ways fermentation can help stretch your food budget. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. RSVP required: FoodShed.coop. Three Things You Can Do in Your Backyard for Birds – 6:30-8:30pm. Denis Kania presents ways to create a bird-friendly landscape and explains how fundamental changes in home landscaping can support more of the 268 bird species that pass through DuPage County each year. Social time, 6:30pm; program, 7pm; Darien Garden Club meeting, 8pm. In-person and Zoom. Free. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. Register: Eventbrite.com/e/three-things-you-cando-in-your-backyard-for-birds-tickets1991987062928?aff=oddtdtcreator.

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ENERGY & HEALING ARTS NETWORK 2026 Energy Healing 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

Peggy@NAChicago.com 847-858-3697 September 2026

Horse, Yoga, Gong + Meditation – 6:458:30pm. Immerse yourself in the balancing energy of the horses. $50. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com.

Tuesday, September 15 Nat’l Hispanic Heritage Month starts World Cleanup Day ONLINE: Go Green Illinois Meeting – 1-3pm. Topic TBD. Zoom. GoGreenIllinois.org.

Wednesday, September 16 Int’l Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer Mexican Independence Day SolFlo LifeSTYLE Lab: Kitchen Alchemy + Juicy Snacks – 6-8pm. Turn healthy eating into a playful, nourishing experience. Explore the art of creating a vibrant plantbased kitchen while tasting simple recipes, juicy snacks, herbal teas and refreshing mocktail. $44. SolFlo Life, 1834 W North Ave, Fl 2, Chicago. SolFloLife.as.me.

Thursday, September 17 Wings of Support: Guided Archangel Meditation & Sound Bath – 7-8pm. A Journey of Healing, Light, and Connection. This guided meditation and sound bath experience invites you into a calming, supportive space where the energies of the Archangels are called in to offer comfort, clarity and healing. No experience necessary. $45/class. The Gathering Lighthouse, 26 N Park Ave, Lombard. TheGatheringLighthouse.org.

Friday, September 18 World Water Monitoring Day

SAVE THE DATE Women’s Mycelium Mysteries Conference Weekend 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 A Wheel of the Year Celebration – 7pm. Join Kate Kent as we gather to celebrate Mabon, the second harvest festival of the Wheel of the Year and the Autumn Equinox. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Chicago

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Sonic Fusion Meditation: Vibrational Journey for Mind, Body, Spirit – 7-8:30pm. With Andre and Barb. Experience a multidimensional soundscape of crystal singing bowls, gongs, drums and harmonic instruments designed to clear stagnant energy, support chakra alignment, deepen meditation and intuition and encourage emotional release and heart opening. Bring a yoga mat, pillow, blanket and eye mask if lying on the floor; chairs also available. $55. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Saturday, September 19 Sotai Part One – 9am-4pm. Sotai is a Japanese assisted-movement method developed by physician Keizo Hashimoto. It works by guiding the body through its painfree range of motion with gentle resistance, communicating directly with the nervous system to release compensatory holding patterns caused by injury, repetitive stress or poor movement habits. 6 CEs. $180. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.edu. Explore Conscious Parenting With Dr. Shefali Tsabary – 12-2pm. Clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Shefali Tsabary discusses conscious parenting and ideas from her newest books, Raising Conscious Daughters and Raising Conscious Sons. Presented in partnership with Happy Women Dinners. ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago. For more info: Hello@AltarCommunity.com or AltarCommunity.com. Intuitive Readings – 2-5pm. With Bobbi Williams. Receive an intuitive reading focused on your soul’s journey, including communication with loved ones in Spirit through mediumship, spiritual guidance through psychic reading and access to the Akashic Records for greater clarity and support through life’s challenges. $50. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. To schedule a session: 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Sunday, September 20 Yom Kippur begins at sundown (Judaism) Blooming Heart – 9-11am. Heart-centered experience with flower essences, floral art and energy healing. Explore the wisdom of flowers and their connection to emotions and the inner journey, with a floral arrangement demonstration and gentle heart-centered energy healing. $25. Corner Health Foods, 502 N Seymour Ave, Mundelein. RSVP: 847-566-5435. CornerHealthFoods.com.

Spirit & Soul Sunday: An Outdoor Spiritual Retreat – 10am. Join us just 2 days before the Autumnal Equinox for a peaceful day of healing, intuitive exploration and meaningful community. A welcoming space to heal, grow and step into autumn feeling grounded, inspired and renewed. Attend 1 experience or immerse yourself in the full retreat. LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St, Shelter 1, St Charles. 630294-5225. Tinyurl.com/5e6swzjc. Unplug and Recharge at School – 2pm. Help your student discover simple, effective ways to de-stress and recharge at The Nature Center. With Eve Muir-Wilson. Interactive class teaches students grounding and centering techniques for starting the day, mindfulness practices to stay focused during school and stress-clearing strategies to reset after school. $35. Springbrook Nature Center, Itasca Park District, 130 Forest Ave, Itasca. 630-773-2257. ItascaParkDistrict.com.

Monday, September 21 Int’l Day of Peace Zero Emissions Day See NAChicago.com for latest events

Tuesday, September 22 Autumn Equinox Int’l Car-Free Day World Rhino Day ¡Manos a la Masa! — Clase de Tortillas para Niños. Hands to the Dough: Kids’ tortilla-making class held in Spanish. Food Shed Co-op, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. RSVP required: FoodShed.coop.

Wednesday, September 23 DGC Sprouts Harvest Party & Garden Potluck – 5-7pm. Sprouts families are invited to harvest vegetables from the Learning Garden, weigh and divide the harvest, then share favorite fruit- and vegetable-focused dishes at a garden potluck. All families welcome; responsible adult must accompany children. Free. St. John Lutheran Church Learning Garden, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. Register: Eventbrite.com/e/dgc-sprouts-september-harvest-party-garden-potluck-tickets-1992178485478?aff=oddtdtcreator. Probiotic Yogurt Demonstration – 6:307:30pm. Join John Hegner for an introduction to the work of physician and author Dr. William Davis, whose writing explores how certain beneficial microbes—including Lactobacillus reuteri—may help support the human microbiome. Food Shed Coop, 2390 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock. 815-687-8480. FoodShed.coop.

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Thursday, September 24

SAVE THE DATE Mini-Retreat for Women: Journey to the Clarity Within An inner journey into awareness, selflove, self-compassion and lasting transformation. A space to pause, reconnect and be strengthened by the collective energy of women in community. $55. Private event space at rear of restaurant 3906 N Broadway, Chicago RSVP by purchasing online: BrandNewMe.net

SAVE THE DATE Luminaria Recognitions 6-8pm Join us for a beautiful evening of light, gratitude, and community. Walk among glowing luminarias, each one celebrating a remarkable woman, her unique contributions and enduring impact. Dedicate a luminaria or just come join in the celebration. Hubbard Woods Park 939 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka Womens-Exchange.org/luminariarecognitions Quantum Shift: From Insight to Transformation – 7-9pm. Hands-on series for applying quantum principles and energy practices to create meaningful change. Led by Eve Muir-Wilson, HTP, RM, Energy Alignment Specialist and Metaphysical Educator. Explore guided techniques to release old patterns, shift energy and align with new possibilities. $55. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com.

Friday, September 25 Experience Reflexology For Feet, Hands & Face – 6-9pm. Joanne Roibu, Professional Advanced Reflexologist, uses specialized reflexology techniques to work specific points on the feet, hands and face to encourage balance, relaxation and overall well-being. Each personalized 60-minute session is tailored to calm the mind, ease everyday stress and restore balance, and incorporates Holy Fire III Karuna Reiki. $90. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Saturday, September 26 Full Moon – Harvest Moon, Falling Leaves Moon (Ojibwe) World Environmental Health Day

Meditate with Horses – 9-10am. 4th Sat. Join the Healed by a Horse herd for a 1-hour guided meditation with horses, offering space to pause, breathe and reconnect with yourself in a peaceful sanctuary setting. No horse or meditation experience necessary. All proceeds benefit HEAL Animal & Human Sanctuary. Donation based; free to Veterans. HEAL Animal & Human Sanctuary, 2040 Bend Rd, Shabbona. Registration required: 708-829-8565 or GiveButter.com/heart-to-horse-meditation-6k9c3p.

whole-person healing through the mental, emotional, physical, energetic and spiritual dimensions of well-being. Through conversation, self-advocacy, gentle reflection and a brief restorative experience, you’ll be invited to reconnect with yourself and explore what healing and possibility can look like in your next chapter. Free. SolFlo Life, 1834 W North Ave, Fl 2, Chicago. SolFloLife.as.me.

What In Life Took Your Power Away? – 2-5pm. Restore the solar plexus, or third chakra, with Randa Clark, Biofield Tuning practitioner, and Richard Popp, professional clairvoyant. Together they scan for disturbances deeply rooted in the solar plexus energy, using tuning fork frequencies to help reintegrate coherence and support physical, mental, emotional and spiritual balance. 30-min session. $90. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

SAVE THE DATE

Full Moon Sound Bath + Frequency Immersion – 7-9pm. Gather under the energy of the full moon for a deeply restorative evening of sound, intention and connection. This immersive ritual begins with a live sound journey featuring gong, singing bowls, chimes, drum, voice, breathwork and aromatherapy, followed by quiet integration in the SolFlo Life Energy Room. $88. SolFlo Life, 1834 W North Ave, Fl 2, Chicago. SolFloLife.as.me.

Sunday, September 27 Reiki I – 9am. Learn Usui Reiki from Reiki Master Teacher Tina McDonald Santana of The Agape House. Learn an effective process for engaging in the healing process for yourself (and others) on a mental, emotional, physical and spiritual level. $150/Reiki I only. If committed to Reiki I & Reiki II, bundle and save $30. The Gathering Lighthouse, 26 N Park Ave, Lombard. Register by Sept 25: TheGatheringLighthouse.org.

SAVE THE DATE Illuminate Naperville 10am-5pm Features vetted intuitive readers, crystals, essential oils, original art, energy healing including reiki, crystal jewelry, luxurious spa products, handmade gifts, free workshops and more. Chicago Marriott Naperville 1801 N Naper Blvd, Naperville IlluminateFestivals.com Divine Space Manifestation Experience – 2:30-5pm. Enter the sacred. Be witnessed. Receive. Sacred Ground, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com. Return to Life: A Whole-Person Healing Open House – 4-6pm. Join SolFlo Life founder Tami for a complimentary introduction to Return to Life, an exploration of

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Monday, September 28 ONLINE: Faith in Place’s 2026 Annual Environment and Spirituality Summit Sept 28-29 Theme: Grounded Resistance. Explore what it means to engage in climate justice from a place of deep grounding, spiritual connection and shared purpose. Includes thought-provoking sessions. For more info or to register: aes-summit.org Natural Remedies for Everyday Pet Care – 12-1:30pm. Explore simple herbs and homeopathic remedies that can gently support digestion, arthritis, allergies and the challenges of aging in dogs and cats. With Linda Roberts, with 16+ years of experience. $10. Corner Health Foods, 502 N Seymour Ave, Mundelein. 847-566-5435. CornerHealthFoods.com.

Tuesday, September 29 World Rivers Day See NAChicago.com for latest events

Wednesday, September 30 Ocean of Light: WhaleBreathing & Reiki Journey – September Theme: Return to the Deep – 7pm. Restorative evening combining WhaleBreathing with Mary Rondenet and Reiki with Tina and Dan Santana. Through intentional breath, visualization and reiki energy healing, release tension, support energetic balance and reconnect with a deeper sense of peace and well-being. No previous meditation, breathwork or reiki experience necessary. $48. The Journey’s Path, 946 N Neltnor Blvd, #210, West Chicago. Advance registration recommended: 630-473-0377.

Thursday, October 1 Energy Light Infusion Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Join certified Reconnection Practitioners Lisa Seyring and Virginia Adams for an evening of meditation, frequency-based energy interaction and individual mini-sessions using the Reconnective Healing spectrum. $33. Inner Haven Spiritual & Creative Center, 34121 N US Hwy 45, Ste 8, Grayslake. 224-252-2945. Email: TheLoveTeam@ My-InnerHaven.com. My-InnerHaven.com. Tickets: My-InnerHaven.com/event-details/energy-light-infusion-healing-circle-2026-10-01-19-00.

September 2026

SAVE THESE DATES Friday, October 30

Saturday, October 3

Sunday, October 11

Maya: Lift the Spell of Maya and Remove the Limitations of Illusion – Oneday Kundalini Yoga workshop combining yoga, meditation and interactive practices to deepen self-awareness, shift limiting patterns and cultivate greater inner balance. In-person with Zoom option available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. For more info: 847-890-8119 or CreationYoga.com.

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.

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.

Sunday, October 4

Saturday, October 17

Saturday, November 7

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. Hilton Chicago/Northbrook 2855 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook. 262-515-1472. HolisticHealthFair.org.

Harmony of Life Holistic Wellness Conference Weekend – Oct 17-18. A premier 2-day experience celebrating holistic health, longevity and biohacking. Features: 20 International speakers; organic product vendors and workshops on biohacking and transformational wellness. DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago, 2111 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove. Wellness-Syn.com.

Karma: Creating Ourselves Through Our Doing – One-day Kundalini Yoga workshop combining yoga, meditation and interactive practices to deepen self-awareness, shift limiting patterns and cultivate greater inner balance. In-person with Zoom option available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. For more info: 847-890-8119 or CreationYoga.com.

Saturday, October 24

Sunday, November 8

Monday, October 5

Body Mind Spirit Expo Weekend – Oct 24-25. 10am-7pm, Sat; 10am-6pm, Sun. Immerse yourself in the magic as you explore live learning sessions and entertainment. Shop at incredible vendors, get a reading or healing and enjoy your community. Explore more than 150+ exhibitors and enjoy 70 presentations. $16/advance, $18/at door. Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Dr N, Schaumburg. BMSE.net.

Saturday, December 5

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. $15. Soulful Prairies, 4706 Alden Rd, Woodstock. 847-366-6743. SoulfulPrairies.com.

Friday, October 9 33rd Annual Autumn Goddess Festival Weekend – Oct 9-10. Fri, 6-9:30pm (Preview, Reception & Guided Meditation); Saturday, 12-8pm (Registration begins 11:30am). Celebrate the Autumn Equinox. Theme: “The Southern Cross: Ray II – Oracle of the Goddess Haumea.” Enjoy workshops, authors, artists, healers, astrologers, sacred ceremonies, meditation, music, vendors and community while exploring themes of transformation, rebirth and Polynesian spirituality. All welcome. Early-bird, single-day, 1-day, and senior/student rates available. Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston, 1501 Sherman Ave, Evanston. Register: 773-505-1724 or Tinyurl.com/bdeuy36v.

Wednesday, October 28 DGC Sprouts: Creatures of the Night – 6-7pm. DGC Sprouts families can meet live nocturnal animals with IncredibleBats Inc. and learn about adaptations of bats, rats, scorpions, spiders, snakes and more. Family-friendly Halloween costumes encouraged. All families welcome; responsible adult must accompany children. Free. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. Register: E v e n t b r i t e . c o m /e /d g c - s p r o u t s - o c tober- creatures- of- the -night- tickets-1992179051170?aff=oddtdtcreator.

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Diwali: Festival of Lights – Celebrate with pooja items, decor, diyas, idols and incense from India. Bring blessings into your home that honor tradition and inspire devotion. Closed Tuesdays. Diya Handicrafts, 2603 W Devon Ave, Chicago. 773-764-7576. IG: @diyahandicraftschicago.

Rahao: Harness the Wisdom in Divine Silence – One-day Kundalini Yoga workshop combining yoga, meditation and interactive practices to deepen self-awareness, shift limiting patterns and cultivate greater inner balance. In-person with Zoom option available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. For more info: 847-890-8119 or CreationYoga.com.

Have an event to share? Reach our readers with an October Calendar or Save the Date listing. NAChicago.com/events

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Ongoing Events

Daily Pigments! Exhibit – Thru Sept 13. Show features plants that have been used throughout history to impart color to textiles, paints, inks and cosmetics. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago. Reservation required: GarfieldConservatory.org. Shimmering Summer – Thru Sept 20. Includes playful iridescent bubble art, performances and family-friendly events. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe. For more info: ChicagoBotanic.org. 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.

Sunday Kundalini Yoga & Gong – 8-9:15am. Allow the sacred practice of Kundalini Yoga to widen the bridge between your finite and infinite self. Zoom option available. First class free. $27/class; class pack options available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. CreationYoga.com.

Wellness Begins Locally. 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. 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.

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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.

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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. 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.

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September 2026

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.

available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. CreationYoga.com. Trail Club – September at Hadley Valley – 5-6pm. Join fellow walkers for weekly hikes on the preserve’s 2.5-mile crushed-limestone loop. Participants attending at least 4 Trail Club walks this fall earn a sticker. All ages. Free. Hadley Valley – Gougar Road Access, Joliet. 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org.

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.

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.

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.

Kundalini Yoga & Gong – 6:30-7:45pm. Allow the energy of creation to empower your life. Zoom option available. First class free. $27/class; class pack options available. Creation Yoga, 1803 Avalon Dr, Wheeling. CreationYoga.com.

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

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.

Wednesday Green City Market: Lincoln Park – Thru Nov 18. 7am-1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org. Ravinia Farmers Market – Thru 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. Farm on Ogden Market – 11am-5pm. WedSat. Indoor year-round market. 3555 W Ogden Ave, Chicago. ChicagoBotanic.org/ urbanagriculture/farm_on_ogden. Kundalini Yoga – 6:30-7:30pm. Through dynamic postural sequences and meditation, create an inspiring experience of healing resulting in an expanded sense of wholeness. $28/class; class pack options available. Reach Yoga, 688 Vernon Ave, Glencoe. CreationYoga.com. Open-Level Yoga – 7-8:15pm. With Gosia. $22. Northshore Healing Centre, 6185 N Canfield Ave, Chicago. 847-588-0370. NSHealing.com.

Thursday Kundalini Yoga & Gong – 8-9:15am. Unlock the depths of your potential to create Peace within. Zoom option available. First class free. $27/class; class pack options

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

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

Friday

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

Reiki Sessions – 11am-2pm. With Rose. Ash & Willow, 610 Devon Ave, Park Ridge. 847-696-7560. AshWillowSalon.com/thenest.

Services

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.

AWAKEN AND HEAL YOUR SOUL THOUGH HYPNOTHERAPY – Explore deep healing and positive change in your life through Hypnotherapy with Tracy of The Enchanted Lightworker. Online and in-person sessions available. TheEnchantedLightworker@gmail.com. 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. REIKI HEALING WITH XOUL HEALING ARTS – Reconnect with your inner wisdom through compassionate reiki healing. Restore balance, release stress and nurture your spirit. In-person Chicago and distance sessions. Healing is your birthright. Maria.sj.leon@gmail.com. YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds.

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

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine CALANDRA CENTER FOR 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!

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

Bodywork 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.

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. See ad on page 13.

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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, 31 and 39.

September 2026

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 55.

Energy Healing With Animals ANNA MARIE ELLISON 708-829-8565 Anna@AnnaMarieEllison.com AnnaMarieEllison.com

Anna Marie is an energy healing practitioner and teacher offering remote and in-person healing sessions for animals and their humans. Sessions support animals through stress, illness, aging, behavioral changes and end-of-life transitions while helping pet parents feel more supported, connected and confident in their decision making. Introductory through advanced certification courses also available.

Energy, Reiki & Sound Healing

EDITH LU Beloved Current Hello@BelovedCurrent.com BelovedCurrent.com Reconnect with your inner wisdom through Quantum Healing Hypnosis, Past Life Regression, Akashic Record Readings and Tarot. Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing or spiritual growth, Beloved Current offers compassionate guidance in a safe, supportive space. In-person and online sessions are available. Learn more and book your experience online.

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.

EVE MUIR-WILSON Energy Alignment • Metaphysical Educator 847-507-0520 WellIntentionsEnergy@gmail.com WellIntentionsEnergy.com Feel lighter, calmer and more aligned. Release stress, reconnect with your inner clarity, and move forward with greater confidence and ease. Drawing on over 30 years of guiding personal growth, Eve Muir-Wilson blends intuitive energy healing, sound healing, quantum practices and personalized strategies that support lasting transformation.

YVONNE E. NIEVES, RMT 773-693-5139 YviRMT@gmail.com linktr.ee/YviRMT

is our monthly directory of community businesses and practitioners that becomes a go-to resource for readers. 52

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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 & Native Plant Resources

Soul Solutions: Integrative Spiritual Healing, Insight & Transformational Guidance: Yvonne 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.

The Natural Awakenings Community Resource Guide

Equine Gestalt Therapy

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.

Join us this Fall! 847-858-3697 Peggy@NAChicago.com Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

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.

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.

How Healing Works Coming in October

Integrative Brain & Mental Health RACHEL KERMEN, MD Marathon Wellness Info@MarathonWellness.org MarathonWellness.org Marathon Wellness is a rootcause integrative mental and brain health clinic blending holistic care with advanced precision medicine. Multidisciplinary virtual treatment programs for dementia prevention, cognitive longevity, depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress resilience and other conditions. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Rachel Kermen, a triple board-certified physician, oversees care together with nutrition and health coaching services.

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.

Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create. —Jana Kingsford

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September 2026

Integrative Psychotherapy cont’d

Meditation & Spiritual Centers

ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT Clinical Director, Inner Balance Chicago, Los Angeles 847-224-0244 | EllenRadhaKatz.com

CHICAGO MEDITATION CENTER OF SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP 946 N Harlem Ave, River Forest 60305 ChicagoMeditationCenter.org/ SRFLessons.org

A Psychotherapist and Coach, Ellen has over 35 years of experience integrating traditional with contemporary healing practices. Mindfulness, HMR, Lifeline, Byron Katie, IFS, Reiki, Yoga and Somatic Experience all contribute to her approach, both online and in-person. Join her monthly on Meetup. com — “Inner Balance Meditation” or visit her: EllenRadhaKatz.com.

Integrative Wellness Center 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 21 and 39.

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 9.

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 11.

Medium, Psychic & Chakra 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 15.

Neurofeedback

MARY MEDUNA-GROSS, PHD PlenaVita Shift · NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback Mary@PlenaVitaShift.com PlenaVitaShift.com NeurOptimal® neurofeedback sessions for people ready to stop managing stress and start changing it at the source. No protocols. No analysis. The nervous system recalibrates itself. Sessions offered in Chicago’s Wicker Park at SolFlo, 1834 W North Ave. First session $185. See ad on page 10.

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.

Resource Centers

MODERN MYSTICS RESOURCE CENTER 630-486-7956 Info@ModernMysticsRC.com ModernMysticsRC.com Modern Mystics Resource Center cultivates conscious human potential through integrative wellness, conscious learning, leadership, innovation and meaningful community. We offer personalized transformational experiences, educational programs, workshops and inspiring events that help individuals reconnect with themselves, discover new possibilities and continue growing with curiosity, intention and purpose. See ad on page 26.

Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important. —Stephen R. Covey

Chicago

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Support the Small Businesses that Advertise in NA Chicago

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.

Trauma Coach

Yoga Centers

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

CREATION YOGA Puranpreet Kaur Fiore, E-RYT 500 Wheeling 847-890-8119 PuranpreetKaur@CreationYoga.com CreationYoga.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.

We are amidst a profound shift into the Aquarian Age. This new era is full of possibilities for Spiritual growth, healing & compassion. Breaking humanity free from hierarchical structures, this age offers new ways to experience life deeply rooted in personal empowerment and inner radiance. Kundalini Yoga is your map through this Era. See ad on page 35.

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.

Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow. —Anthony J. D’Angelo

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.

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September 2026 Natural Awakenings Chicago Magazine