Issuu

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | H E A LT H Y P L A N E T

FREE

Inner Balance GREATER LEHIGH VALLEY AND FAR WEST NJ EDITION

SEPTEMBER 2026

Herbs to your Success

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

kula kamala

SELLS OUT ANNUALLY

KULA KAMALA FOUNDATION & YOGA ASHRAM

VIPASSANA Retreat Retreat explore the silence

NOVEMBER 27th to 29th THese Retreats include: Classes & Programming; Dorm Style Accommodations; Vegan Gluten-Free Meals; Snacks, Tea & Water

17 BASKET ROAD READING PA 19 0

(484) 509-5073 ex. 1

Soul Natural Health

Twin Ponds

Lehigh Valley Edition

STUDY@KULAKAMALAFOUNDATION.ORG

HealthyLehighValley.com

Contents 10 Schedule a Nutritional Consultation to Redefine Your Health Goals 12 Introduction to Somatic Therapies

Nutrition Course NEXT COURSE TO BE CONFIRMED

16 Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility

Become a Certified Nutrition Consultant

18 The Power of Movement 20 Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats 22 Nutritious Nachos 26 Homeopathy Under the Microscope

Departments 8 Community Spotlig

18 Healing Ways

28 Classifieds

9 News Briefs

20 Natural Pet

28 Ongoing Events

12 Feature Story

22 Conscious Eating

28 Calendar of Events

16 Fit Body

26 Homeopathy

29 Business Directory

Advertising & Submissions

Scan code to learn more

Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Through the American Association of Nutritional Consultants (AANC) Doctor of Naturopathy and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Derek Rodger (ND) prepares students to pass the Certified Nutritional Consultants Exam. Once qualified you are entitled to use the designation CNC after your name and practice as a Nutritionist. Certified Nutritional Consultants (CNC) can work in hospitals, clinics, private practice settings alongside acupuncturists, mental health professionals, physical therapists, doctors and chiropractors, as well as a consultant in schools, businesses, health food stores, spas and health clubs. Today's economists have determined that the natural health field is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. today. It goes without saying that people are getting more concerned about their personal health and their families health. Just take a look at this picture below and ask yourself, what type of life are you planning for yourself.

The course includes 11 modules and the classes meet on a Sunday morning 9-1 pm. The course fee is $1950 and can be paid over 6 months at $325. To obtain a detailed information pack visit:

NutritionConsultants.org or 908-223-8899 September 2026

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

GREATER LEHIGH VALLEY AND FAR WEST NJ EDITION Publisher Dr. D Rodger (ND) Editors Dr. D Rodger (ND) Design & Production Patrick Floresca Sales & Marketing Dr. D Rodger (ND)

CONTACT US P.O. Box 81 Three Bridges, NJ 08887 Phone: 610-421-4443 Fax: 908-806-4046 DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com HealthyLehighValley.com

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

Publisher ’s Letter

Why Labor Day? Every year, on the first Monday of September, Americans celebrate Labor Day. For many of us, it marks the unofficial end of summer—a final long weekend filled with barbecues, family gatherings, travel and, of course, Labor Day sales. But have you ever stopped to ask:

The answer takes us back more than 140 years, to a very different America. During the late 1800s, the United States was rapidly becoming an industrial powerhouse. Factories, railroads and mines employed millions of people, but working conditions were often incredibly difficult. Twelve-hour days, six or even seven days a week were not unusual. Workplace safety standards were limited, benefits were virtually nonexistent, and even children could be found working in factories and mines. Workers began organizing and demanding something that today we might take for granted: a fair day's pay for a fair day's work, reasonable hours and safer working conditions. On September 5, 1882, thousands of workers marched through the streets of New York City in what became the first widely recognized Labor Day parade. It wasn't simply a celebration—it was a statement that the people who built the country's businesses, roads, railways, factories and communities deserved recognition. Twelve years later, in 1894, Labor Day officially became a federal holiday.

CONTACT US Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Phone: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com Cover image Adobe Stock #115124893 Healthy sandwiches by Svetlana Kolpakova © 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.

More than a century has passed, and the American workplace has changed enormously. Yet perhaps the meaning of Labor Day remains just as relevant. Behind every successful business, hospital, school, restaurant, farm and community are people who get up every morning and make it happen. Some work with their hands, others behind desks; some run businesses, while others care for children, patients or aging parents. Work comes in many different forms, but every contribution matters. So, as we enjoy that final summer barbecue or well-earned day off this Labor Day, perhaps it's worth remembering why the holiday exists in the first place. Labor Day isn't really about the end of summer. It's about the people whose work keeps America moving forward. From all of us at Natural Awakenings, have a safe, relaxing and very happy Labor Day!

Dr. D Rodger ND, MBA Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

Directory of Display Advertisers Thank you for being part of our community!

Bear Creek Organics ��23 Bethlehem Nutrition......................................................................................................11 Dorneyville Pharmacy.................................................................... 17 & 23

Not feeling like yourself anymore? Gaining weight, no matter what you do? Tired, have brain fog, moody or “hormonal?” Dr. Lorraine Maita,

the Hormone Harmonizer and Detoxifier, can help you have boundless energy, stable moods, a lean body, sharp, clear mind and balance your hormones so you can feel like yourself again and even better. If you need support in getting your life back, apply for a free clarity call to see if we are the right fit at https://you.feelgoodagaincourses.com/ foundations-program.

The Feel Good Again Institute (formerly HowToLiveYounger.com)

Dr. Rodger ND (Nutrition) �� 2, 5, 32 Feel Good Again..........................................................................................7 Freys Better Foods.....................................................................................25

“I want YOU to Feel Good Again”

Green Meadows.........................................................................................19 Herbs to Your Success ��2 Kula Kamala.................................................................................................4 Livewell (Chiropractic/Acupuncture) ��8 Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center ��13 Marie Ruxton (Massage) ��14 Naturally Yours Organic Shop ............................................................................ 17 Peace Festival...............................................................................................8 Soul Natural Health ��4 Susan Sacred Space ��18 The Dining Dog ........................................................................................21

Truee Essence

True Essence ................................................................................................7 Twin Ponds Integrative Health Center....................................... ........................4

Let them know you found them in Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley!

September 2026

Community Spotlight

Cultivating Space for Renewal The Restorative Power of Retreat by Sara Gurgen

n a world of constant notifications, responsibilities and overstimulation, intentionally stepping away for moments of peace and quiet can seem almost impossible. Yet, according to Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati, founder and director of Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, in Reading, Pennsylvania, “stepping away for spiritual retreat may be exactly what we need to balance and reconnect.”

“This hectic, fastpaced world can take a toll on our nervous system, inhibiting our health and happiness,” says SwaminiJi, as she is affectionately known. From phone alerts and social media to responsibilities and financial pressures, “our nervous system often suffers from overload, leading to a chronic state of fatigue, fight or flight, freeze or fawn, and severe illnesses.” Retreat offers a way to counter such imbalances by creating space

Peace Festival

Lehigh Valley Edition

Live Well

HealthyLehighValley.com

to pause, reset and reconnect. It can be an opportunity to support physical, mental and emotional well-being while renewing a connection with what is sacred. “Chaos brings chaos and balance brings balance,” notes SwaminiJi. A spiritual retreat provides an opportunity to disconnect from everyday demands and “empowers us to nourish balance” through teachings, practices, silence or simply being present. “We cannot pour from an empty cup,” she adds. Retreat allows us to replenish rather than continually giving from an exhausted place. More than simply a vacation or getaway, “a retreat provides a deliberate pause from daily stressors—an opportunity to reset the nervous system, shift perspective, and reconnect with the sacred and with the self,” explains SwaminiJi. That intentional break can be transformative, even when it lasts only a day or two. Stepping outside familiar routines can create room to notice what has been overlooked and see life with greater clarity.

One of the most common changes she observes in retreat-goers is “the discovery of, or the return to, peace and joy,” along with relief from the guilt many feel for wanting to take time for themselves. Participants are surprised that even a short retreat away from familiar routines can be refreshing and transformative, describing the experience as “a breath of fresh air” or “just what I needed to see things more clearly.” Kula Kamala offers several ways to take part in spiritual retreats. Local day retreats provide a brief respite for those with limited time to devote to themselves; weekend retreats offer a short-term reset; and extended retreats allow for deeper immersion in “learning, practice, stillness, quiet and peace.” International pilgrimages to destinations such as Ireland and India add another dimension, inviting participants to explore spirituality, culture and self-discovery. She notes, “While in India, participants experience yoga and meditation from within the cultural and spiritual tradition from which they emerged.” To SwaminiJi, a retreat is not simply travel or vacation. “A spiritual retreat or pilgrimage, at its very core, sets the intention of spiritual exploration and self-inquiry.” Over the years, her commitment to her own time in retreat has deepened. “I am a more peaceful, happier, healthier person when I retreat regularly—when I take time to go inward,” shares SwaminiJi. Retreat helps her remain “energized, inspired and purposefully engaged in the sacredness” of her own life. For anyone feeling “a desire to recenter, to go deeper or to be more peaceful,” SwaminiJi offers a simple invitation: “Come and retreat.” In doing so, she says, people can discover space to “pause, reflect, recover and return to what truly matters.” Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram is located at 17 Basket Rd., in Reading, PA, with a second ashram location in Galway, Ireland. For more information, call 484-509-5073 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org. See ad, page 4. Sara Gurgen is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

News Briefs

Community Acupuncture

Affordable Wellness for Everyone

Experience the healing benefits of acupuncture in a comfortable community setting. Community acupuncture offers the same effective treatment as private sessions at a fraction of the cost, making natural healthcare accessible to everyone. Treatments are provided in a peaceful, shared space where you can relax in comfortable reclining chairs as a licensed acupuncturist addresses concerns such as stress, anxiety, chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, allergies, and overall wellness. Community acupuncture with preset acupuncture point prescriptions allows reduced pricing, ensuring you can receive regular care without financial strain. Whether you're seeking relief from persistent discomfort, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your health and balance, community acupuncture provides a supportive, calming environment to help you feel your best. Take time for yourself and discover why so many people choose acupuncture as part of their wellness routine. Join "Muscles Like Butter" community healing and experience compassionate care that fits your budget. Scheduling is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Health is not a destination but a direction; I invite you to take the first step. The July and August schedule is Tuesday 5-8pm and Sunday 9am-12pm. For more information, including current point prescriptions, please visit MusclesLikeButter.com/community-acupuncture. David Aselin L.Ac, LMT. 716-846 3045, David@ MusclesLikeButter.com. MusclesLikeButter.com. See ad, page 29.

Peace Festival

Greenshire Institute will hold a Peace Festival on September 13, 1-6pm. Focusing on promoting peace within Self, Family, Community, All Humankind: Activities include Vendors, Peace Pole Ceremony, Gongs, Labyrinth, Give-Away, Raffle, Potluck, Massage, Presentations, Surprises! The re-dedication of Greenshire’s Peace Pole, erected in 2006, is central to this gathering. On the Peace Pole are inscribed seven different languages reading: "May peace prevail on earth." The 4 PM Peace Ceremony will be followed by a Gong Sound Bath that brings the day’s festivities to a close. Greenshire’s Space for Peace was founded in 2006: Dedicated to helping people explore new horizons as they revitalize the quality of their life: body, mind, spirit. Their team of professionals provides services to help individuals reach their goals, such as Spiritual Studies, Life’s Transitions, Yoga, Reiki, Community Gatherings. Healing sessions include Massage, Reiki, Craniosacral, Intuitive Shamanic, Coaching. Greenshire’s grounds are always open to the public. The Angel of Peace statue invites you to visit their seven-acre sanctuary. A Stone Circle has been constructed to acknowledge summer and winter solstices, spring and fall equinoxes. The Peace Garden brings focus to the Peace Pole. Deep in the silent woods is Greenshire’s Stone Amphitheater. The lower campus includes vegetable and flower gardens.

Since Greenshire’s parking lot is small, parking is at Woodlands, 5724 Clymer Road. A shuttle will take you to/from Greenshire. Entrance: $20/individual. $30/family. Vendors/Healers: $40/space. Presenters: Free. Reservations: info@GreenshireInstitute.org. 3620 Sterner Mill Road, Quakertown. See ad, page 27. September 2026

Schedule a Nutritional Consultation to Redefine Your Health Goals Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor

health management. This approach does not rely on trends but instead uses structured evaluation and scientific understanding to guide recommendations. When individuals schedule a nutritional consultation based on clinical medical nutrition, they receive guidance that is both personalized and evidence-based.

utrition plays a critical role in overall health, yet many individuals remain unsure about what their bodies truly need. Advice from social media, magazines, and popular diets often leads to confusion rather than clear direction. Many people follow trends that promise quick results but fail to address personal health conditions, lifestyle habits, or long-term wellness goals. When you schedule a nutritional consultation, you move away from guesswork and toward a structured, professional approach guided by clinical medical nutrition principles. Changes in energy, digestion, weight, or long-term health markers often indicate that dietary habits need closer evaluation. Instead of relying on trial and error, a professional nutrition consultation allows individuals to understand how food choices affect metabolism, immune function, and overall balance. A properly scheduled nutritional consultation provides direction, clarity, and a personalized plan designed to support lasting health.

Why You Should Schedule a Nutritional Consultation Before Changing Your Diet

Every individual responds differently to food. Age, medical history, stress levels, activity, and metabolic function all influence nutritional requirements. Without proper evaluation, diet advice can remain too general to produce meaningful results. When you schedule a nutritional consultation, your current habits, health concerns, and goals are reviewed in detail so that recommendations are based on your individual needs rather than general guidelines. 10

Lehigh Valley Edition

How to Prepare Before You Schedule a Nutritional Consultation

During a consultation, eating patterns, medical background, and lifestyle factors are examined carefully. This process helps identify areas where adjustments may improve digestion, support energy levels, stabilize blood sugar, or strengthen overall wellness. A structured consultation ensures that nutrition changes are safe, practical, and aligned with long-term health goals.

The Importance of Clinical Medical Nutrition

Modern research continues to show that nutrition directly influences metabolism, immune response, hormonal balance, and chronic health conditions. Because of this, many professionals now use clinical medical nutrition, an approach that combines scientific research with individualized dietary planning. Clinical medical nutrition focuses on how nutrients interact with the body’s physiological systems and how carefully designed nutrition programs may support overall

HealthyLehighValley.com

Preparation can make your nutritional consultation more productive. Tracking meals for several days before your appointment helps provide an accurate picture of daily habits. Recording food intake, hydration, meal timing, and symptoms allows the practitioner to identify patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed. It is also helpful to define your personal health goals before your visit. Some individuals want to improve digestion, others want to increase energy, maintain healthy weight, or support long-term wellness. When you schedule a nutritional consultation, having clear goals helps ensure the session remains focused and effective.

Applying Clinical Medical Nutrition to Everyday Life

Professional nutrition guidance does not require extreme changes. Most individuals begin with small, realistic adjustments that fit naturally into their routine. These may include improving meal timing, balancing nutrients, adjusting portion sizes, or selecting foods that better support metabolic function.

The goal of clinical medical nutrition is to connect daily food choices with overall health management. Instead of viewing meals as routine habits, individuals learn to see nutrition as a long-term strategy for maintaining balance and supporting the body’s natural ability to function properly.

structured recommendations, patients gain the knowledge needed to support lasting health.

Why Personalized Nutrition Works Better Than General Diet Plans

FAQs

Research continues to show that personalized nutrition plans produce more reliable results than generalized diet programs. Each person has unique metabolic needs, health history, and lifestyle demands. When you schedule a nutritional consultation, these factors are evaluated so that recommendations are tailored specifically to you. This individualized approach helps prevent frustration and allows people to make steady, sustainable improvements. Over time, structured guidance based on clinical medical nutrition can help support digestion, energy levels, immune function, and overall well-being.

Schedule a Nutritional Consultation with Dr. Rodger, ND

Improving your health requires more than following popular diets or online advice. It requires understanding your body, reviewing your habits, and applying reliable nutritional knowledge. When you schedule a nutritional consultation, you receive professional guidance designed to support long-term wellness and balanced health. Dr. Rodger, ND provides individualized evaluation and clinical medical nutrition guidance to help patients make informed decisions about diet and lifestyle. Through careful assessment and

To schedule a nutritional consultation, call 908-223-8899 or visit DrRodgernd.com

What happens during a nutritional consultation? A nutritional consultation includes a review of your health history, current diet, lifestyle habits, and wellness goals. This evaluation helps identify areas where nutrition changes may support better balance. Who should schedule a nutritional consultation? Anyone who wants to improve eating habits, support energy levels, improve digestion, or better understand how nutrition affects health may benefit from scheduling a nutritional consultation. How should I prepare for a nutrition consultation? Keeping a food diary for several days before your visit is helpful. Recording meals, hydration, and symptoms provides valuable information for accurate evaluation. How long does it take to see results? Nutrition changes usually occur gradually. Consistent adjustments based on clinical medical nutrition often lead to steady, long-term improvement. Why is clinical medical nutrition important? Clinical medical nutrition focuses on personalized, sciencebased dietary guidance. This approach considers your individual health history, metabolism, and lifestyle to create more effective recommendations.

Bethlehem Nutrition

September 2026

Feature Story

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

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. 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.

governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Examples of negative body sensations include clenching muscles, racing pulse, 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

“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 12

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

Matej Kastelic/shutterstock

Noticing the Body’s Messages

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.

MAGNOLIA INN

PeopleImages/Shutterstock

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, 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.”

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 hands on your opposite shoulders and gently stroke them downward,” he explains. 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. September 2026

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.

PeopleImages/shutterstock

Feature Story

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.

contribute to repairing mood imbalance and creating sustained well-being.

Humming: The vibrations from humming (either a tune or single note like an “Om”) physically calms the vagus nerve, which 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.

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.

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

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.

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 Marie Ruxton

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 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

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

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.

Yevhen Titov/shutterstock

Sheldon C. Baker is a contributing editor to numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications.

Discover the Pawpaw Tree The Native Super-fruit Tree You Can Grow Right at Home! by Bear Creek Organics

Pickin’ up pawpaws, put ‘em in your pocket…. Way down yonder in the pawpaw patch.

hen I sang that song as a child, I had no idea what a pawpaw was. I had never seen one in the wild. I’d never seen the fruit for sale in the store. It remained a mystery fruit until I got into edible landscaping. 25% off paw paw trees! Only at Bear Creek Organics in White Haven PA! Special announcement! Bear Creek Organics has very healthy paw paw trees for sale! It’s the best year we have ever had. They are of superb genetics - naturally selected and organically grown - for cold hardiness and huge tasty fruit quality. We consult, design, and install a paw paw patches or you can make an appointment to purchase trees at our nursery. The Paw paw tree is the only tropical tree to have escaped the tropics! One look at it’s leaves and growth habit and you’d think somebody plucked it straight out of the Amazon Rainforest. Only this tree is native to our area and has adapted to our temperate climate growing wild in the woods of the eastern United States. Oh the fruit! The Paw Paw fruit is the largest native fruit that can be found in all of North America. The large fruit grows in clusters with individual fruit weighing over one pound. When you cut the fruit open a beautiful orange to yellow custard pulp is exposed. Most describe the flavor as banana and mango combined, with after tones of pineapple, strawberry, or vanilla. According to Michael Judd, author and edible landscaper:

Nutritionally speaking, pawpaws are vitamin-packed antioxidant powerhouses— the original super fruit! Full of vital vitamins and minerals, exceeding peaches, grapes and apples. It is exceptionally high in potassium, calcium, vitamin C, niacin, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, and magnesium. High in antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids. No spray tree and very deer resistant! Some fruit trees can be persnickety here in PA, but not the pawpaw. It is native to the woods in our region and so grows well for the backyard orchardist. Once established, the Paw Paw is a ‘no spray tree’. It’s leaves carry a mild toxin so it basically has no pest or other disease issues unlike most backyard fruit trees. Grow your own! Just know what genetics you are planting and plant them in a good location. Contact Richie Mitchell from Bear Creek Organics, he can help. He has a wide selection of paw paws ready to plant this fall - the best varieties for our area. Contact Bear Creek Organics: Visit BearCreekOrganics.com and fill out the contact us form. Follow project activity via faceook.com/ bearcreekorganics. You can also call 570-5820615 to speak with Richie Mitchell, Owner of Bear Creek Organics. See ad, page 23. 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:

Images by Kris Han/CanvaPro

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.

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

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. 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.

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

each inhale and deepening the stretch on each exhale.

gluteus muscle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing normally.

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 the hip. Then cup the crossed knee with the opposite hand and draw it across the body toward the opposite shoulder to stretch the

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.

Dorneyville Compounding Pharmacy

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 center and bend the 2011 upper body to Adthe Proof #1then - April Issue the left. Focus on lengthening the spine on

ving Li

Sus t

for L

s od

Naturally Organic le G abYours n i o a

Im pact

Hemp • Bamboo • Alpaca • Organic Cotton Clothing for Men, Women & Baby Natural Personal Care Sustainable Paper • Fair Trade

Naturally Yours The Organic Shop 81 Broadway • Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 570.325.8209 www.naturallyyoursorganics.com

September 2026

Healing Ways

The Power of Movement Supporting Healthy Childhood Development Through Balance by Christina Connors

While most of us know the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste and smell—there is a sixth, less obvious sense doing constant work behind the scenes: the vestibular system. Located in the inner ear, it monitors every tilt, spin, jump and turn of the head, sending this information directly to the brain. Pediatric occupational therapist Dr. Chanie Messinger describes it as our movement and balance system, likening it to an internal global positioning system (GPS). Before a child can focus on reading, writing or sitting through a lesson, the brain must first understand where the body is in space.

Movement and Self-Regulation Work Together

A 2025 feasibility study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health tracked preschoolers in four Massachusetts childcare centers through a 10-week program focused on physical literacy, pairing short, playful lessons with active free play. Children in the intervention group showed significant improvements in gross motor skills and behavioral self-regulation compared to peers that maintained their usual

Susan Sacred Space

Robert Kneschke/shutterstock

alance is about far more than standing on one foot. From climbing the monkey bars to sitting still at circle time, this foundational motor skill influences how children move, learn, feel and interact with the world around them, often in unexpected ways.

routines. These findings add to a growing body of evidence that movement and self-regulation are interconnected aspects of childhood development.

Each Child’s Movement Experience Is Unique Not all children experience movement the same way. Occupational therapist Crae Akerson, with a private practice in Stamford, Connecticut, explains that children have varying neurological “ceilings” for vestibular input. In other words, their nervous systems are able to process balance, spatial orientation and movement in unique ways before they become overwhelmed. A child with a high ceiling constantly seeks movement, which may appear as restlessness or getting into trouble. A child with a low ceiling quickly reaches their limit and avoids movement altogether, often seeming shy or staying at the edge of recess. Neither pattern is a character flaw; both are nervous systems expressing different needs. Proprioception, the body’s sense of pressure and position, can help regulate these patterns. Akerson recommends activities like crab walks, wheelbarrow walks, jumping, cartwheels and leapfrog. As she explains, any activity that applies pressure on the body tends to calm and organize the system, supporting focus, motor planning and emotional regulation.

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

Robert Kneschke/shutterstock

build core strength, coordination and body awareness. None of these require perfection, equipment or a therapy clinic in the basement. They simply need snippets of time throughout the day dedicated to swinging, spinning, climbing and resting.

Screens Are Not the Enemy

Messinger emphasizes that digital screens are not inherently bad. “The bigger question is how we are using them and whether we are creating healthy boundaries around them,” she explains. Prolonged periods in one position—head down, body still—are simply crowding out the climbing, crawling and balancing that growing bodies need. “You can learn about riding a bike by watching videos,” she points out. “But eventually, you have to get on the bike.”

Encourage Purposeful Boredom

Unstructured free play is as important as organized activities. Messinger has watched children choose a cardboard box over an expensive toy time and again. During openended play, kids develop creativity, negotiation skills, confidence and body awareness simultaneously, and such lessons endure well into adulthood.

• Animal Walks: Invite kids to travel sideways like a crab, leap like a frog or waddle like a duck. • Pillow Obstacle Course: Create a safe sequence of challenges across the living room, using blankets, bed pillows and couch cushions to construct stepping stones, a crawl tunnel, a small mountain and even a jumping area with built-in crash pad for safe falling. • Balance Beam: Using a fallen log in the backyard or a line of painter’s tape on the patio, invite kids to walk a straight light and maintain their balance.

• Dance Break: A five-minute dance break between homework subjects is a great way to keep kids active while helping to develop their balance and spatial skills. • Stretch and Breathe: A few stretches and deep breaths before bed can help calm the nervous system and signal the brain to wind down. Balance is not a skill children master once and move past. It is a practice they revisit repeatedly, in bodies that are always growing and changing. Organized sports, gymnastics or swim lessons each build their own type of coordination and confidence, but they are most effective alongside ample unscheduled time to simply move. When children's bodies feel steady, their minds tend to follow. Christina Connors is a burnout prevention specialist, keynote singer and author. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.

Green Meadow

Recognizing the Need for More Movement

Signs such as difficulty sitting still, frequent clumsiness, poor posture, trouble winding down at bedtime and constant sensory-seeking (crashing, chewing and fidgeting) may indicate a child's need for more movement. Messinger advises, “I always encourage parents to ask, 'I wonder what my child’s body is trying to tell me?’”

Simple Ways To Build Balance at Home

Movement activities can be fun for the entire family, inviting creative play and a sense of accomplishment. They are designed to September 2026

Natural Pet

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

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 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 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.

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.

TatyanaGl from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Addressing the Root Causes

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

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

Nikola Zivkovic from Getty Images/CanvaPr

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.

The Dining Dog

Assembling a Health Team

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 complex, pointing to numerous factors, inare the symptoms, just to make sure the anicluding hormone balance, often need Box 421 Emmaus, PAwhich 18049 • P: 610-421-4443 • F:uncomfortable. 610-421-4445 mal is not too ” LVEditor@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com • www.NaturalAwakeningsMag.com attention alongside gut issues. Medication may calm the brain’s response,

Ad Proof for Natural Awakenings Improving the Diet but if the gut remains inflamed, caregivers

Small, consistent changes at home can sup- may beP:addressing only part of the issue. To: 610-421-4443 port gut balance alongside veterinary care. Gut health and mental health are interconEmail: F: 610-421-4445 Moving away from highly processed diets nected for dogs and cats, and treating them toward fresh, minimally processed food separately Please sign your proof and complete the following information: may explain why some anxious (Ad is shown at gut actual larger may promote healthier florasize. over See time.second pets page never for fully settle.ads.) A whole-animal Targeted probiotic support can help restore view—one that includes the gut—provides microbial although strain and dose theand pet spelling and the veterinary Ad diversity, is approved: contact information is correctteam a comprevary by individual and should be discussed hensive approach. Ad is approved with changes indicated with a veterinarian. Digestive enzymes supAd isofnot approved – make changes indicated port the breakdown food, and long-chain, Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and omega-3 fatty acids sourced from fish oil or a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator algae have been shown in a 2007 study in the of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at Journal of the American Veterinary Medical DrRuthRoberts.com.

Dorneyville Pharmacy Dorneyville Pharmacy

Veterinary Compounding Specialists Tom’s Dog “Axl”

We feature a full line of veterinary preparation with size, dose and flavor appropriate medications for every animal ... including cats, dogs, ferrets, bunnies, reptiles, birds and exotics! We work with your vet!

Thomas E. Silvonek, RPH, FACA

Fellow American College of Veterinary Pharmacists Compounding Specialist Monday – Friday • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 3330 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown P: 610-437-4600 · F: 610-437-1444 www.DorneyvillePharmacy.com September 2026

Conscious Eating

Nutritious Nachos 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.

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

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

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. It 22

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

CASTALDOstudio.com/shutterstock

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.

Dopsy3d from Dopsy 3D/CanvaPro

Frey’s

can tantalize taste buds and broaden the possibilities. “Think generously spiced tandoori chicken 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.” 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 Middle Eastern green shatta can add an exhilarating element to any nacho dish.

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 layers if you want to go all out.” Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

Landscaping

Ecological Edible Landscapes Bear Creek Organics

Custom Landscaping with Fruit & Nut Trees, Berry Bushes & Natives Plants and More!

Full-Service Foodscaping! • Consultation, Design, Installation, Management • Homesteads, Edible Landscapes, Native Gardens • Permaculture Designs, Food Forests, Orchards

Edible Landscaping Nursery inventory scan here ->

Scheduling Now – Limited Space!

• Don’t delay! Contact us early to get onto our Summer Schedule!

• Step 1: Schedule your consultation/initial site visit - This spring • Step 2: Have us design and Install your dream Edible Landscape!

Let’s turn your visions into reality!

Scan for website BearCreekOrganics.com

Web: BearCreekOrganics.com ‘Contact’ ß *For fastest contact method use web* Follow Us: Facebook.com/ (See Our Projects, Updates, and Events)à BearCreekOrganics September 2026

Courtesy of FoodFaithFitness

Conscious Eating

CHICKEN NACHOS

A cheesy classic gets a makeover with protein-packed shredded chicken.

2 avocados, diced 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional) ⅓ cup green onions, sliced ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ⅓ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (for serving) Salsa (for serving) Preheat the oven to 350° F. If using frozen corn, thaw it. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded chicken, black beans, corn and cheese over the chips. Add another layer of chips and top with the remaining chicken, black beans, corn and cheese.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen 10 oz baked tortilla chips (about 8 cups) 2¼ cups cooked, shredded chicken breast 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed 1¾ cups shredded, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese 1 tomato, diced

Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeño slices, green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately with nonfat Greek yogurt and salsa on the side. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness. 1 large avocado, diced Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Courtesy of FoodFaithFitness

Preheat oven to 400° F. Heat a medium pan over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat into pieces, until no longer pink inside. Cut the stem off each pepper and cut in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and white flesh.

MEXICAN MINI BELL PEPPER NACHOS

Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the peppers on it, cut sides up.

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

Stir the salsa into the cooked beef and fill the peppers with the beef mixture. Sprinkle with the cheese.

Satisfy nacho cravings without the chips.

½ lb lean ground beef 26 mini bell peppers 6 Tbsp salsa 1 cup shredded, reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, packed (4 oz) ½ cup tomato, diced ¼ cup green onion, diced 24

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

Bake until the cheese is melted, about 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle on the tomato, green onion, avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness.

KETO-GREEN NACHOS

Courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS FOR THE QUESO 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 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 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.

Courtesy of Dan Whalen

¼ cup Habanero hot sauce 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and thinly sliced 1 lime, quartered and sliced into small wedges

PLANTAIN NACHOS YIELD: 4 DINNER SERVINGS OR 8 APPETIZERS 1 12-oz bag plantain strips (about 80 strips) 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 1½ cups carnitas 1 cup cooked black beans (homemade or from a can) 1½ cup shredded Chihuahua cheese ½ cup lime crema

Preheat the broiler to low with a rack about 4 inches from the heat. Arrange the plantain chips evenly on a sheet pan, overlapping them as little as possible. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on the chips, distributing it evenly. Add the carnitas, then the beans and top with the Chihuahua cheese. Broil until the cheese has melted and the chips are starting to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. (Watch carefully to make sure they don’t burn.) Remove from the oven. Drizzle the crema and hot sauce on the nachos and top with the avocado and lime. Serve hot. Recipe courtesy of Dan Whalen. September 2026

Homeopathy

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

Rawf8 from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

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 26

Lehigh Valley Edition

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

HealthyLehighValley.com

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,

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 September 2026

Calendar of Events

Classifieds

Save the Date

Opportunities Bear Creek Organics is hiring! We are looking for skilled landscapers who are passionate about Ecological Edible Landscaping. Permaculture Design Certificate preferred. Email resume and cover letter to: Richie@BearCreekOrganics.com Calling Holistic Presenters – Facilitate your workshop or retreat at our Upper Bucks center, with peaceful country setting, meditation gardens, and woods. GreenShireArts.org. Email info@GreenShireArts.org or call 215-538-0976. Holistic Chiropractor, Naturopath or Natural Functional Medicine Practitioner Needed – Join our comprehensive solution Wellness Center in Stroudsburg. Access to over 2000 clients in a professional, dedicated facility. Call Vicki at 570-977-1900 to discuss.

Products Crystal Tones Singing Bowls – Classic & Alchemy for meditation & vibrational healing. Also offering personal vibration testing. Contact Anthony at Life Holistic Center, 570-706-6680 or LifeHolistic@hotmail.com. See more at LifeHolistiReiki.com. Interactive Dementia and Alzheimer Game – An interactive and fun family game that will bring a twinkle to the eye and smile on the face. Call 484-8605894. HighRollDice.com. Two Green Burial Plots for Sale – At Green Meadows Burial Ground in Fountain Hill, PA. $1,800 total.Call 610698-4921.

Services Spiritually guided card readings offered in person, or via phone, parties also welcome. Channeled messages are for your highest good. Let my gifts guide you! Reasonable rates. Cheryl 908-268-8029. Readings with intuitive counselor, Reiki also available. Free 10-minute initial session. Evelyn peptel62@gmail.com. 551804-7571. Free Phone Reading for Lightworkers. Your Higher-Self reveals the blocks that are slowing you from growing your practice/business. Email Enaid to learn more. enaid-rensporp@ProtonMail.com Kula Heart Yoga & Wellness, LLC contracts self motivated and ethical bodyworkers and yoga instructors to serve Bath and the Lehigh Valley. If you are interested in growing your business, making your own hours and being a part of a Wellness Center that is filled with compassion, professionalism, and FUN! Submit your interest to info@ KulaHeartYogaAndWellness.com.

Lehigh Valley Edition

October 11-20 Vaishno Devi/Shakti Peetham India Pilgrimage Join a small group pilgrimage from Delhi to Kantra, India and receive darshan at many sacred temples along the way, including and culminating in the Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra. $3900. For information and further details, visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org or speak to Casey at 484-509-5073 ext 1.

Wednesday, September 9 Heal your Body and Mind with Effortless Meditation™ – 3-4:15pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, Twin Ponds Holistic Health Center, West LV - Breinigsville, Pre-register 610-670-6700.

Tuesday, September 15 Relax and Release Stress with Effortless Meditation™ – 3-4:15pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Preregister 610-670-6700.

Wednesday, September 23 Heal your Body and Mind with Effortless Meditation™ – 6:30-7:45pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, Stress Reduction Resources, Curtis Rd, Sinking Spring, PA, Pre-register 610-670-6700.

Tuesday, September 29 Train your Brain with Effortless Meditation™ – 3-4:15pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to selfcare. Gain relief from insomnia, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610670-6700.

Ongoing Events

PLANS CHANGE Please call ahead to confirm date and times

Daily Free Your Heart-Chakra Challenge (24/7) A FREE online course to get out of your head & into your heart with 3 simple tools. In 2 hours or less learn meditation, journaling & art play expressing left/right brain energies. Enroll now: MichelleLeeArtsStudio.com/p/ Free-Your-Heart- Chakra-Challenge. Narcotics Anonymous – If you think you have a drug problem, and are tired of being sick and tired, there is a better way. Call 24hour helpline 610-439-1998. We are here to help. You are not alone. Radiant HeART Rising (24/7) A soulistic experience to unblock your heart, embrace self-love & empower an inspired life, using yoga, meditation & heart-chakra art making. Take this online course at your pace for $33: MichelleLeeArtsStudio.com/p/RadiantHeart-Rising.

Sunday Sunday Services – Metaphysical and nondenominational. Rev. Lloyd Moll, Pastor –Unique Sunday services 10:30am. All welcome! St. John’s Church of Faith, 607 Washington St Allentown. 610-776-7211. CoDA is a 12-Step Fellowship of people with a common purpose to recover from codependency. The only requirement for membership in CoDA is a desire for healthy and loving relationships. Meetings are Tuesday 7-8:30pm at Calvary Baptist Church 4601 W. Tilghman St. Allentown, PA 18104. Questions; call Jim at 610-264-7046 or visit coda.org.

Wednesday LV Lyme Support Group – First Wednesday of every month (except July we are off) at 7pm at 4007 Greenpond Rd, Country Meadows Bethlehem 18020 . We meet in last building 2nd floor chapel. Lots of brochures and guidance! Heidi Healy, Moderator 973610-0531.

Buy into your community

HealthyLehighValley.com

…Support our advertisers

Greater Lehigh Valley Business Directory 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 DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com to request our media kit.

Acupuncture EASTMAN ACUPUNCTURE LAURA EASTMAN, M.AC., L.AC.

1617 Hamilton Street Allentown, PA 18102 484-425-2865 Eastman-Acupuncture.com

Eastman Acupuncture provides high quality, individualized acupuncture treatments to the Lehigh Valley community. We see patients for a wide range of symptoms such as pain, headaches, neuropathy, digestive issues, incontinence, anxiety and much more. We use a variety of techniques including Dr. Tan’s Balance Method, Master Tung points and electroacupuncture.

Holistic Practitioner SOUL NATURAL HEALTH

Leah Mary Quirk soulnaturalhealth@outlook.com Text 610-730-8975 SoulNaturalHealth.com Easton, Pennsylvania I am a certified Ayurveda practitioner, herbalist and reiki healer. Did you know over 80% of Americans have intestinal parasitic infections? Parasites, gut dysbiosis and food sensitivities are a root cause of many auto-immune diseases, cancer, digestive and mental health disorders. I am very gifted at finding the root cause for client’s dealing with chronic health issues. I offer holistic health consultations with custom herbal formulas and reiki healing. See ad, page 4.

LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC

Dr. Robert W. Livingston III, DC, L.Ac. Dr. Jennifer K. Bollinger, DC, L.Ac. 8026 Hamilton Blvd. Trexlertown, PA 18087 610-395-5509 LiveWellIntegratedHealth.com LiveWell Integrated Health offers traditional Chinese acupuncture, chiropractic, body work, and nutritional and lifestyle coaching. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice...choose to LiveWell. See ad, page 8.

MUSCLES LIKE BUTTER

David Aselin L.Ac, LMT 811 Blakeslee Boulevard Drive East Suite 130, Lehighton, PA 18235 716-846 3045 David@MusclesLikeButter.com MusclesLikeButter.com Providing customized and individualized acupuncture treatments utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Five Element styles to reduce symptoms and restore balance. Additional modalities include cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, ear seeds, and Boreh body scrub. Health is not a destination but a direction. David welcomes you to take the first step.

Bodywork MARIE RUXTON THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Marie Ruxton CMT, CN 628 Chestnut St., Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-2500 Marie is a certified massage therapist trained since 1997 in Advanced Myofascial Release Therapy, Therapeutic Massage, Reiki, Ear Candling, Homeopathy and Holistic Nutrition. Offers comprehensive custom bodywork for those wanting to overcome chronic pain and movement problems. Sessions range from a (2 hour) Head to Toe meltdown massage to “Just Neck and Head” massage for those needing stress relief. Gift certificates available. See ad, page 14.

Chiropractor ASSOCIATED CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Joseph A. Perelli 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111 AssociatedChiropractic.com

Dr. Perelli has served the Lehigh Valley for 31 years delivering natural, hands-on chiropractic care for neck, m id-back, low back and extremity conditions. He specializes in sports, auto and work comp injuries with various holistic treatments to get you back to your pre-injury status quickly.

LIVEWELL INTEGRATED HEALTH LLC

Clinical Nutritionist BETHLEHEM NUTRITION & WELLNESS CENTER

Kathy Harrington, MS Functional Medical Nutritionist 3400 Bath Pike, Ste. 101 Bethlehem 610-419-3909 BethlehemNutrition.com

Bethlehem Nutrition & Wellness Center, we give you the tools to bring you and your family into a state of optimal health. Using the most advanced nutritional testing available, we look for the underlying cause of your health problems. Once the underlying cause is addressed not only do symptoms go away, but your overall health can also be greatly improved. See ad, page 11.

Counseling – Holistic SMART SOLUTIONS AND CREATIVE HOLISTIC THERAPY

Rev. Lyn S. Felix, MSW, LCSW, CHT, RM 3037 S. Pike Ave. #105, Allentown PA 18103 610-282-0709 CreativeHolisticTherapy.com A holistic, highly intuitive counselor, coach and vibrational chakra rebalancing practitioner who supports you in getting unstuck and moving forward. Using mindfulness, hypnotherapy, EFT, Reiki, tuning forks, breathwork, and more, Rev. Lyn guides you step by step from chaos to calm and confidence. Insurances & Private Pay. Free Phone Consultation.

September 2026

Depression

Green Cemetery

Kangen Water

TMS CENTER

GREEN MEADOWS AT FOUNTAIN HILL CEMETERY

KANGEN WATER®️ PERI MARANDO

Dr. Paul Gross 401 N. 17th St., Suite 304, Allentown, PA 610-820-0700 www.Tmslv.com Thousands in the Lehigh Valley struggle with depression every day, but thanks to the TMS Center of the Lehigh Valley, they are not alone in their fight. We are the region’s first transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment facility and one of the most experienced centers on the east coast, having performed over ten thousand TMS treatments.

Events & Retreats Resort

1121 Graham Street, Fountain Hill, PA 18015 610-868-4840 GreenMeadowPA.org The only green cemetery in the Lehigh Valley. A cemetery of wildflowers and grasses native to Pennsylvania. Return to the natural cycle of life to nourish the soil, green the meadow and live on. Nondenominational. Non-profit. Speakers available to visit organizations. See ad, page 19.

Hyperbaric Therapy ELIXIR HEALTH & WELLNESS

MAGNOLIA STREAMSIDE RESORT

570 595-2489 2518 Route 390 Canadensis, PA 18325 MagnoliaStreamside.com inna@MagnoliaStreamside.com

Magnolia Streamside Resort offers streamside lodging and a one-of-a-kind event wedding venue. From the chapel in our enchanted forest to festivities in a 4,000 ft pavilion surrounded by a gorgeous mountain stream. Magnolia is a perfect destination wedding resort venue. We invite you to enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of this nature oasis for a wholesome wedding weekend experience or a perfect getaway with your friends and family. See ad, page 13.

1021 Main St., Bethlehem PA 18018 elixirbethlehem@gmail.com www.ElixirLV.com

Elixir Health & Wellness is an east meets west, holistic approach for longevity and anti-aging. We offer mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT), Red Light Therapy, Compression Therapy, and Metabolomic testing. These can be combined to optimize health or be used as stand alone therapies for specific goals. Protocols are tailored to each individual client.

Hypnosis & Hypnosis Training STREAM HYPNOSIS, LLC

570-617-5325 vperweiss@streamhypnosis.com www.StreamHypnosis.com

Funeral Services NICOS C. ELIAS FUNERAL HOME, INC

Nicos C. Elias, Supervisor Allentown, PA 610-433-2200 Nicos@EliasFuneralHome.com EliasFuneralHome.com Mr. Elias offers several different green and eco-friendly funeral plans using biodegradable caskets, preservation without chemicals. A natural, back to the earth approach. Biodegradable urns for those choosing cremation.

find out how to be

included IN THIS SECTION

Achieve your personal best in sports, sales public speaking and more. Whether you need to eliminate chronic pain, achieve your ideal body weight, reduce stress, or kick the smoking habit hypnosis is a useful tool that can help you move forward. Individual and group sessions, remote and in person sessions. Board Certified Hypnotist with NGH.

RESULTS WELLNESS CENTER, LLC

Jacqueline LeClaire 6120 W. Main Blvd., Bath, PA 18014 JacquelineLeClaire.com 484-264-3889

Become a Certified Hypnotherapist / Become a Certified Reiki Practitioner, Usui Master. Jacqueline LeClaire is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master Trainer with the International Association of Counselors and Therapists and Reiki Master for over two decades. She is the owner of Results Wellness Center, LLC.

Call 610-421-4443 30

Lehigh Valley Edition

HealthyLehighValley.com

Enagic Independent Distributor 732-977-0803 www.PathTowardsLife.com www.KangenWaterPoconos.com Info@PathTowardsLife.com Since 1974, Enagic® has been a leading innovator of pure water technology and has transformed the way we look at water and its role in a healthy and vibrant life. Enagic® specializes in producing ionized alkaline water systems that transform ordinary tap water into healthy, hydrating, alkaline Kangen Water® for cooking, cleaning, drinking and sanitizing.

Landscaping BEAR CREEK ORGANICS

570-582-0615 BearCreekOrganics@gmail.com BearCreekOrganics.com We create organic and ecological edible landscapes. With mother nature as our teacher, and extensive knowledge of edible plants,. We develop beautiful food production systems that support your needs and the needs of the natural wildlife. No matter the size of your budget we will help you create an edible landscape that is right for you. See ad, page 23.

Marketing NATURAL AWAKENINGS DR. DEKA RODGER ND, MBA

Owner/Publisher 610-421-4443 DrRodgerND@HealthyLehighValley.com DrRodgerND@gmail.com www.HealthyLehighValley.com www.DrRodgerND.com www.NutritionConsultans.org www.Ultimatelongevity.com/DrRodgerND Due to his extensive background in business and marketing and built his own practice through the Natural Awakenings magazine he can take businesses to the next level. Also, with a strong background in keeping fit and understanding all aspects of exercising. He also teaches a Nutrition Certification Course over a 6-month period, students completing this course and passing all exams can put the designation CNC after their name. See ads, pages 3, 5 and 32.

Massage KONNECTIONS MASSAGE

Wellness Spa MAGNOLIA INN & WELLNESS CENTER

Kathy Hatcher, LMT 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111 KonnectionsMassage.com

570 671-2121 11 Knob Road Mt Poconos, PA 18325 magnoliapoconos.com oksanna@magnloiapoconos.com

Kathy has been administering deep tissue, therapeutic, medical, pregnancy and aromatherapy massage since 1996. Her NEWEST services are Ionic Foot Cleanse Detoxification as well as Red-light therapy for non-surgical weight loss and chronic pain management. Insurance billing for massage available.

Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center is state of an art wellness hub that offers an extensive array of cutting-edge wellness modalities like Floating Therapy, Cryotherapy, IV Therapy, Colon Hydrotherapy and so much more. Our medical director, therapists, and staff are committed to helping our clients achieve TRUE health by accessing their optimal vitality and longevity. Membership programs are available and designed to make our services accessible to our local community. See ad, page 13.

Naturopath NATURAL HEALTH PROMOTION LLC

Tina Stashko, PhD MIfHI Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-8132 NaturalHealthPromotion.net

Specializing in preventative healthcare, digestion and nutrient absorption, and thyroid and adrenal health. Modalities such as iridology, sclerology and biochemical balancing enable the development of your unique program for optimum health. These programs are easy to follow and incorporate into your daily life. Reach your full health potential!

Reiki

Editorial Calendar Three-Month Planner

Wellness Spapothecary HERBS TO YOUR SUCCESS

Vanessa Sabatine 64 South Main St., Nazareth, PA 18064 610-365-8996 • HerbsToYourSuccess.com Herbs to Your Success is a health & wellness spa located in Nazareth, offering multiple holistic spa experiences and herbal remedies. We also offer a wide selection of essential oils, teas, skincare, make-up and more! We provide high quality spa services to our customers and our friendly and courteous staff guarantees exceptional customer service. See ad, page 2.

How Healing Works October

JESSICA RUISCH

Stone Song Healing at Twin Ponds Holistic Health Center 628 Twin Ponds Rd, Breinigsville, PA 610-573-6191 Jessica.ruisch24@gmail.com Jessica provides in-person and distance Reiki & Seichem sessions, as well as in-person Reiki with Stones & Crystals. The integration of Reiki with the subtle energies of stones and crystals supports gentle chakra balancing. Guided by intuition, these healing modalities work together to restore the body and open the door to transformation.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Natural Awakenings empowers our readers with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Rooted in Gratitude November

Be a resource for our health conscious readers seeking products and services like yours.

610-421-4443

L E H I G H VA L L E Y E D I T I O N

Tell them you saw it in Natural Awakenings

Living Generously December

September 2026

Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley PA & Far West NJ- September 2026