Natural Awakenings Lehigh Valley PA & Far West NJ- November 2025
The Burnout Reset Whole-Body Recovery for the Season Ahead
To Feel Good Blood Sugar Stability for Better Health and Mood
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.
Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Naturopathic Doctors vs. Medical Doctors A
Holistic Approach to Health
In today’s healthcare landscape, many people are seeking treatments that go beyond symptom management and instead address the root cause of illness. This growing shift has brought renewed attention to Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) and how their philosophy and approach differ from that of Medical Doctors (MDs). While both are trained health professionals dedicated to patient care, their methods, training focus, and philosophies of healing are distinctly different.
Medical Doctors are trained within a conventional biomedical framework, focusing primarily on diagnosing disease and treating it with pharmaceuticals or surgery. Their education emphasizes anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and emergency medicine—skills that are essential for acute and life-threatening conditions. However, the traditional medical model often overlooks the underlying factors contributing to chronic illness, such as nutrition, lifestyle, emotional health, and environmental influences.
Naturopathic Doctors, on the other hand, are trained in both conventional medical sciences and natural, preventive therapies. They study anatomy, physiology, and pathology much like MDs, but also receive in-depth education in clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture, lifestyle counseling, and detoxification. The philosophy guiding naturopathic medicine is that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself when given the proper support. NDs focus on restoring balance, identifying and addressing the root cause of disease, and empowering patients to take an active role in their own healing.
Whereas conventional medicine often relies on suppressing symptoms through medication, naturopathic medicine seeks to understand why those symptoms exist in the first place. For example, instead of prescribing medication to reduce high blood pressure, a Naturopathic Doctor will investigate potential triggers such as stress, diet, hormonal imbalance, or nutritional deficiencies, developing a personalized plan to restore health naturally.
Another key distinction is the time and attention given to each patient. Naturopathic consultations are typically much longer and more comprehensive, allowing time to explore all aspects of a person’s lifestyle and wellbeing. This individualized approach fosters trust and long-term health improvements rather than temporary relief.
While both NDs and MDs play vital roles in modern healthcare, Naturopathic Doctors offer a more preventive, patient-centered, and integrative approach—one that treats the whole person, not just the disease. As awareness grows, more people are recognizing that true healing lies not in quick fixes, but in restoring the body’s natural balance through education, lifestyle, and holistic care.
Have a great month everyone!
Dr. D Rodger ND, MBA
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
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)
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Fragmentation Is When a Piece of the Person’s Conscious Energy…
Have you been feeling disconnected, ungrounded, or like something inside you is missing? Did you know that feelings like these are often experienced in fragmentation?
Fragmentation is when a piece of the person’s conscious energy field gets broken away. Once broken away it either stays in the system, walled off, creating what Baldwin refers to as a “sub personality”. (Baldwin, Spirit Releasement Therapy, 4th ed. 1995) The soul fragment can also become completely removed from the primary self-save for a silver thread that remains connected between the person and the fragment. The cause of fragmentation is most often the result of a physical or emotional trauma. Integration of the soul part is necessary for healing.
In addition to holes in the energy field the fragmentation itself permeates the person’s emotional and physical state with a kind of film of negative emotions and sensations like anger, fear, sadness, guilt or pain.
According to Dr. Modi it is imperative that all soul parts be “brought back, cleansed, healed and integrated regardless of how small or large and whether inside or outside. Without this, the (person) will be constantly influenced (by the negative forces) and permanent healing will not be possible.” (Modi, Shankuntala Remarkable Healings, 1997).
Bringing back the pieces and restoring integrity gives people the power and protection they need to resist dark entities.
Spirit Release work can be done remotely. If you think you or a loved one has an attachment or spirit possession, contact me through my website.
For more info: Vanessa Perez Weiss, BCH, FNP, NP-C. Stream Hypnosis, LLC. 535 E. Laurel St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. vperweiss@ StreamHypnosis.com.570-617-5325. StreamHypnosis.com. See ad on page 7.
Want to Become a Massage Therapist?
imarly/123rf.com
The Massage Academy of the Poconos , located at 753 Phillips Street in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, is a premier destination for both professional massage services and massage therapy education. Our spacious facility of over 5,000 square feet is designed for comfort and relaxation.
Want to Become a Massage Therapist?
We are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Private Licensed Schools. Our 670-hour massage therapy diploma program curriculum ensures students graduate with the skills and knowledge to succeed as licensed massage therapists. Day and evening classes are now forming for January 2026. Please review the online catalog on the website for more details.
Facility & Community Impact
With a comfortable environment, the Massage Academy of the Poconos supports the wellness needs of the local community while preparing the next generation of massage professionals. Its mission blends health, education, and relaxation—providing a place where clients relax and students succeed.
Wellness Services from our Licensed Therapists
Clients can choose from a wide variety of treatments, including relaxation massage, rejuvenating facials, holistic therapies such as reiki, sound healing, and acupuncture. We are committed to making high-quality massage and wellness services accessible, offering affordable rates with a spa-like experience.
For more info: Vicki Hicks, BS,LMT, CCCA, BCTMB. 570-9771900. Owner/Director. To learn more about becoming a massage therapist or scheduling with our PA Licensed practitioners please review our website.
Massage Academy of the Poconos, LLC. MassageAcademyLLC.com. See ad on page 21.
Create a Fruit Tree Guild
with Bear Creek Organics
One of the coolest ways to grow fruit trees in your backyard is by planting a fruit tree guild. A fruit tree guild is a way you can grow a fruit tree along with multiple flowers and berry bushes that work together as a mini ecosystem. Think about your favorite fruit tree, berry bushes, and native flowers. Now imagine them growing in the same space and working together as a team.
Benefits of a Fruit Tree Guild:
• A synergy of plants that work together as a mini ecosystem.
• Harvest a variety of fruits, berries, and flowers in one garden space.
• Edible groundcovers such as strawberries help suppress weeds.
• Native plants work together to ward off pests and to support pollinators.
Fruit Tree Guilds start with a main fruit tree in the center forming the canopy. This fruit tree grows up tall towards the sun and is the backbone of the guild. From here we add an edible ground cover that grows low and wide and produces an abundance of fruit while suppressing grass and weeds. Around the tree we plant a diversity of native flowers that work together to support pollinators and build soil. Next, we plant the shrub layer with all sorts of berry and nut bushes.
Landscaping
582-0615.
Ecological Edible Landscapes
Our favorite guild to create is an Apple Tree Guild with a crisp delicious apple tree at the center, sweet juicy strawberries as the ground cover, and a variety of beautiful and medicinal native flowers. If the space allows we include yummy berry bushes. For example, Blueberry, Honeyberry, Elderberry, Chokeberry. Then we repeat the pattern with different trees to form a Food Forest.
Life Beyond Earth Is Highly Probable
Researchers from Durham University in England surveyed more than 1,000 scientists, both astrobiologists and non-astrobiologists, to assess their beliefs about the existence of basic, complex and intelligent life beyond Earth. Their findings were published in nature astronomy. Almost 87 percent of astrobiologists agreed or strongly agreed that at least basic extraterrestrial life likely exists in the universe, while less than 2 percent disagreed and 12 percent remained neutral. Similarly, more than 88 percent of other scientists concurred that other life forms exist.
These results align with mathematical reasoning. With an estimated 100 billion galaxies in the universe, each containing billions of stars, and our understanding of habitable planets and moons, the probability of no other life forms existing is less than one in a billion billion (1,000,000,000,000,000,000).
Zodiac Signs Are Outdated
The ancient Babylonians believed the movements of the planets and stars were omens predicting the future, prompting them to track patterns in the night sky. They established the Western zodiac signs 2,500 years ago by naming the constellation behind the sun each day from Earth’s perspective. However, the constellations no longer align as they did 25 centuries ago. For instance, 2,000 years ago, September 16 was in Virgo, but today it is in Leo.
The Earth spins like a wobbling top, causing our view of the stars’ positions to shift by one degree every 72 years. Since Babylonian times, this has resulted in a nearly 35-degree change. Our current view of the constellations today will not be seen again for 2,600 years.
The Babylonians originally identified 17 zodiac constellations but reduced the number to 12 to match the number of months in their calendar year. However, the slices of the night sky are unequal. The sun spends twice as long in front of Virgo as in front of Cancer. This change also excluded Ophiuchus, which, when combined with Scorpio, only appears in front of the sun for a week. It may be time for astrologers to reconsider the zodiac signs.
Benjamin Farren from Pexels/CanvaPro
Frequency Restoration and Its Benefits in Treating Cancers & Much More...
Frequency restoration, often delivered through advanced technologies such as pulsed electromagnetic field therapy and targeted radiofrequency applications, is based on the principle that every living cell resonates with unique electromagnetic vibrations. Cancer cells, which differ structurally and metabolically from healthy cells, may be especially vulnerable to carefully tuned frequencies. Unlike chemotherapy or radiation—which can harm both cancerous and normal tissues—frequency-based approaches aim to selectively disrupt malignant cells while supporting the vitality of healthy ones. This makes frequency healing an appealing non-toxic and supportive option in integrative cancer care.
How Frequency Healing Works:
Scientific exploration into frequency therapies has revealed several ways in which they may influence cancer biology:
• Cellular disruption: Laboratory studies have demonstrated that exposure to specific frequencies can interfere with cancer cell division, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and disrupt survival signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and p53. These mechanisms are central to tumor growth and resistance, making them valuable targets.
• Immune activation: The immune system plays a critical role in recognizing and
eliminating cancer cells. Animal models have shown that frequency therapy may enhance the activity of CD8+ T-cells, reduce immunosuppressive cytokines, and restore immune surveillance, thereby helping the body mount a stronger natural defense.
• Tumor environment modulation: Tumors thrive by creating their own supportive environment. Frequency exposure has been linked with reduced angiogenesis—the process of building new blood vessels to feed tumors—and increased necrosis within malignant tissue. By altering this microenvironment, tumors may become more vulnerable to the body’s defenses and medical treatments.
Documented Benefits
Non-toxic and well-tolerated:
1. Unlike conventional chemotherapy or radiation, frequency-based therapies are generally free from severe side effects. Clinical research, including phase I/II trials in advanced liver cancer, has reported encouraging outcomes such as disease stabilization, tumor shrinkage, and even complete remission in select patients—all without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. Patients typically tolerate these therapies well, with no suppression of immunity or organ function.
2. Enhancing standard therapies: Frequency healing does not necessarily replace conventional care but may strengthen it. Evidence suggests that cancer cells exposed to specific frequencies can become more sensitive to chemotherapy drugs, while healthy cells appear protected. This dual effect opens the possibility of reducing chemotherapy dosages, minimizing toxicity, and improving overall treatment outcomes.
3. Improved quality of life. In Comparison to The Traditional Chemotherapy—Radiation & Hormone Blocking Drugs. Patients undergoing frequency therapies often report significant improvements in daily living. Reductions in cancer-related pain, improvements in sleep quality, better energy levels, and relief from anxiety or stress have been consistently noted. These benefits not only enhance well-being but also support resilience—an essential factor in coping with long-term cancer management.
Conclusion: Frequency healing represents a promising new avenue in integrative oncology, combining the wisdom of natural resonance with modern medical insight. By selectively targeting cancer cells, boosting immune defenses, and enhancing quality of life, it offers a gentle yet potentially powerful complement to established treatments. While larger, multicenter clinical trials are still required to confirm long-term effectiveness, early research and patient experiences provide strong encouragement. For individuals seeking non-toxic, supportive, and holistic approaches to cancer care, frequency healing stands out as a valuable option— one that aligns healing with harmony.
Dr. Rodger ND is the author of two books, a writer, blogger and the publisher of Natural Awakenings LHV. He is passionate about Natural Healing Modalities. Connect with him at DrRodgerND.com
Frequency Restoration
For Anxiety Attacks
Restoring Balance to a Nervous System in Overdrive
Anxiety is not merely a mental state— it is the body’s signal that its internal frequencies have fallen out of harmony. Chronic stress, emotional trauma, poor sleep, and environmental overload can all distort the body’s natural vibrational field, leaving the nervous system in a state of constant alert.
Frequency Restoration works to bring these disrupted frequencies back into alignment, helping the body and mind return to their natural state of calm, clarity, and control.
How Frequency Restoration Helps Relieve Anxiety
1. Calms the Overactive Stress Response
Targeted frequencies help quiet the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) response while activating the parasympathetic (“rest and repair”) system. This shift naturally lowers cortisol, reduces muscle tension, and promotes a deep sense of safety and peace within the body.
2. Restores Emotional Coherence
When frequency patterns are balanced, the brain, heart, and nervous system communicate more harmoniously. This
coherence stabilizes mood, reduces emotional volatility, and restores mental clarity—making it easier to think calmly even in stressful moments.
3. Rebalances Neurochemistry
Restored vibrational patterns can support optimal neurotransmitter function—particularly serotonin, dopamine, and GABA—chemicals essential for emotional stability and wellbeing.
4. Encourages Restorative Sleep and Cellular Recovery
Anxiety and sleep deprivation are deeply interconnected. Frequency Restoration helps normalize circadian rhythms and cellular signaling,
promoting restful sleep that rejuvenates both body and mind.
5. Builds Long-Term Resilience
Unlike short-term symptom relief, frequency realignment strengthens the body’s energetic and emotional foundation, improving resilience to future stress and preventing anxiety from reestablishing its hold.
The Experience
Most individuals report a profound sense of calm within minutes of beginning therapy. Over time, consistent sessions reinforce emotional balance, reduce anxiety triggers, and enhance overall quality of life. The process is gentle, noninvasive, and deeply restorative—guiding the body back to its natural rhythm of ease and harmony.
Conclusion
Frequency Restoration represents a new frontier in anxiety care—bridging science and subtle energy medicine. By reestablishing the body’s inherent vibrational order, it addresses anxiety at its energetic root. The result: a clear mind, a relaxed body, and a renewed sense of inner peace.
For more info: Email DrRodgerND@gmail. com. DrRodgerND.com. 908-223-8899.
Connecting Community With Yogic Tradition
Kula Kamala Ashram Offers Universal Teachings and Restorative Practices
by Trella Dubetz
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Berks County, Pennsylvania, Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram is quietly reshaping what it means to live a spiritual life in today’s world. More than just a local yoga center, the ashram serves as a nonprofit sanctuary for both local and global communities, supports meaningful causes, fosters creative solutions and encourages inclusive spiritual exploration.
“We are an interfaith, inclusive space rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma—a universal perspective of truth, goodness, service and nonviolence. The work we do is summoned by our sincere calling to make the world a little more welcoming, a little less intimidating, and life more radiant and peaceful,” explains Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati, affectionately known as SwaminiJi. Founded in 2015 by SwaminiJi and her husband, Ed RamaChandra Allitt (now deceased), the ashram is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, with offerings available both in person and online.
One of the ashram’s most beloved offerings is chanting—a practice rooted in yogic tradition. “The music and mantras are filled with messages of love and peace,” SwaminiJi observes. “We teach mantra from the beginning. We start with the history, work through the pronunciation and cultivate the bhav, the sweetest intention of devotion.” SwaminiJi personally leads the
chanting training programs, which focus on either a traditional method called veda or a more modern approach. “When we chant, we witness people relax—their faces and nervous systems soften. It’s transformative physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” Chanting is offered both online and in person.
For those seeking an in-person experience, the ashram offers wellness and themed retreats, professional trainings in leadership and yoga and serene outdoor spaces— including a koi pond, meditation path and labyrinth, library and several spots for personal quiet time. “Mindfulness and quietude are important.” SwaminiJi emphasizes. “Our silent retreats, offered by donation twice yearly, provide people an opportunity to explore both.”
The ashram is deeply committed to sustainable living and is increasingly offgrid. The original structure was built in 1932, with an additional wing added in 1954. Since acquiring the property, SwaminiJi has
overseen the installation of HVAC units to offset heating oil use; a solar system that generates up to 130 percent of the ashram’s energy needs; two geodesic greenhouses and 54 outdoor raised garden beds to support food production; and a café that serves wholesome, gluten-free, vegan food, offered by donation.
“The human heart is constantly looking for ways to heal through connection— with ourselves, with Source and with each other. We serve others to ease the incessant searching and empower the actual discovery,” SwaminiJi reflects. “May there be more places of peace, more spaces for healing.”
Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram stands as a powerful reminder of our inherent potential as humans to explore, rediscover and empower spiritual growth, purpose and unity.
For more information about Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati and Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, located at 17 Basket Rd. in Reading, call 484-509-5073 ext. 1 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org.
Trella Dubetz is a trauma-informed bodyworker, holistic and human design practitioner, graphic designer and writer based in Lancaster County. She blends creativity with healing practices to support personal transformation. Connect with her at TrellaDubetz.com. See ad on page 25.
The Burnout Reset
Whole-Body Recovery for the Season Ahead
by Hannah Tytus
It’s six o’clock in the evening, and the sun has already set. The body is whispering for a warm cup of tea and rest, yet the to-do list stretches on: emails and carpools, fundraisers and school practices, appointments and dinner still to be cooked. The desire for rest is overridden by our self-imposed need to get it all done. The colder season, however, brings an opportunity to shift how we see rest and productivity, inviting us to move in harmony with the cycles of nature.
“Our culture has fed us the myth that we can grow and achieve ceaselessly,” explains Kari Leibowitz, Ph.D., a psychologist, speaker, workshop facilitator and author of How to Winter. “The idea that this growth is linear and steady, with no breaks, is a myth and a fantasy. So much of the winter woes and the burnout of the season comes from a mismatch between our natural rhythms, our expectations and the demands of the world. Winter is an invitation to slow down.”
Lost Wisdom of Seasonal Living
As with every other living being, we are intimately connected to nature’s cycles. “We are animals, and we live on a planet. And almost every other living thing on this planet changes its behavior with the seasons,” observes Leibowitz. “Because we have electricity, artificial light and calendars, we have deluded ourselves into thinking that we can—and should—maintain the same routines and productivity levels year-round.”
This spirit of connectedness is echoed by Shamini Jain, Ph.D., adjunct professor at the University of California San Diego, founder of the Consciousness and Healing Initiative, and author of Healing Ourselves: Biofield Science and the Future of Health. “When we own that we’re part of a universe that has its ebbs and flows, we pay attention to the seasons,” she notes, adding that Indigenous medicine and wisdom have long honored natural cycles, seeking to answer the same question we ask ourselves today: “How can I show up and be most efficient in my service?”
This ancient orientation toward seasonal rhythms is not just a philosophical concept. Anthropological studies suggest that our ancestors likely slept more in the cooler months, falling asleep soon after sunset and rising before dawn. They got the most sunlight in the morning, aligning their body’s cycles with temperature and light cues provided by nature. Contrast this with modern life, where we stay active well after dark, are exposed to sleep-disrupting blue light, wake with alarms and regulate our environment with thermostats that erase natural temperature shifts. By structuring our lives around modern demands, we resist nature’s rhythms. The result, says Jain, is chronic stress, fatigue and burnout.
Hamdi Kandi from Hamdi
Modern Stressors
As autumn transitions into winter and the holidays approach, many of us face greater demands to cook, shop, perform, travel or coordinate complex schedules, yet our resources of time and energy remain the same—or even ebb—as daylight hours shorten and our bodies naturally slow down and produce less vitamin D because of a decrease in sunlight exposure.
“Whenever demands exceed resources, we become stressed,” says Dr. Sharon Grossman, physician and author of The Burnout Solution. Chronic stress has a cumulative effect on our bodies, causing what is known as an allostatic overload, which, according to Yale Medicine, can lead to emotional exhaustion, cynicism, detachment, reduced creativity, brain fog, disrupted sleep, physical aches and pains, or even social withdrawal.
Improving Our Mindset
“We often think of stress as a thing that lives ‘out there’, but stress is actually an internal perception that we have. It’s not always about the circumstances themselves; it’s about what you’re telling yourself about the circumstances that creates the stress,” explains Grossman.
A 2016 study in Anxiety, Stress, & Coping examined the effects of altering our perspective on stress. Participants were encouraged to see it as a potential source of energy and resilience, rather than harmful. Those that applied this change in mindset reported better moods, enhanced cognitive performance and healthier physiological responses during a stressful task.
Try this psychological exploration: Identify limiting beliefs by journaling about the specific fears and guilt that come with saying “no” to a request for help. Next time someone asks for something, politely decline and observe the outcome. Check if expectations of conflict or hurt were unfounded. This approach challenges limiting assumptions and helps us set healthier boundaries, thereby reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
We often have countless ideas about how we should behave, and many of these beliefs hold us back. Grossman emphasizes that every “yes” adds to our demands. “If you’re going to say ‘yes’, understand why you’re saying it,” Grossman cautions. “It should serve a purpose, because our resources are limited.” In practical terms, we have to either lower the demands we accept or increase our resources, such as time or support, to meet them.
For Leibowitz, setting boundaries becomes easier when guided by values. If we want Thanksgiving to feel lighthearted and memorable, that might mean skipping elaborate dishes, accepting a less-than-perfect home and prioritizing rest so we can be present and joyful.
When a new request comes in, pause and reflect on how it aligns with personal values. Consider whether we are acting out of pressure. Release such commitments to make room for a new, better-aligned invitation.
Breathing Out the Stress
Simple breathing practices can profoundly calm the nervous system. “The point is to breathe—nice inhales, long exhales—and in letting out a long exhale, make a sigh of relief,” Jain advises, suggesting that sounds like “ooo” or “ahh” during exhalation enhance emotional release.
Just five minutes of intentional breathing can make a measurable difference. Studies have demonstrated that longer exhales stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the rest-and-digest system, while calming the fight-or-flight response. This reduces heart rate and blood pressure and signals the brain to relax.
Try this breathing exercise: Sit or recline comfortably. Inhale gently through the nose, then exhale through the mouth, allowing sound to escape—this can be a sigh, a groan or a vowel tone. With each round, allow the exhale to lengthen naturally, releasing tension.
Transformative Singing
According to Jain, “Singing, whether by yourself or in groups, helps harmonize the body’s rhythms, decreases inflammation and activates the nervous system’s rest-and-digest response.” A 2016 study by London researchers, published in ecancermedicalscience, demonstrated that just one hour of group singing reduced stress and improved mood, with saliva tests indicating lower levels of cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone) and changes in immune markers associated with resilience.
Bringing the benefits of song can be as simple as singing or humming a tune while washing dishes, showering or driving to work. Knowing the lyrics isn’t necessary; the vibrations alone create a positive resonance in the body.
Nature Therapy
Every breath we take is a dance between humans and plants. The oxygen they expel fuels us, and our exhaled carbon dioxide sustains them. This exchange is part of the deep bioelectric communication connecting us to the natural world.
“Fresh air, movement and connecting with nature are all natural antidepressants. Even a few minutes outside can be a powerful way to shift your experience,” says Leibowitz. A 2016 review of 52 Japanese studies found that spending time in nature measurably relaxes the body. Being around forests, plants or green spaces calms the nervous system, improves brain function, balances hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Try this outdoor palliative: Find a patch of earth and stand barefoot. With eyes closed, imagine releasing the day’s energies down into the ground. After a few breaths, visualize energy flowing back up, reinvigorating the body.
Calming Movement
Mind-body-spirit practices offer powerful ways to find inner serenity. “They are effective in harmonizing the nervous system,
reducing inflammation and opening our connection with heaven and Earth,” asserts Jain. Tai chi and qigong, which blend flowing movements with focused attention, breath and relaxation, have been shown in studies to pacify the overactive sympathetic nervous system and promote deep relaxation. Yoga offers similar effects. A 2020 review of 12 studies with nearly 675 healthy adults found consistent reductions in perceived stress, confirming yoga’s power to ease everyday tension.
Practicing these modalities under the guidance of a professional helps reduce risk of injury. Look for a tai chi, qigong or gentle yoga class in the community. Many studios offer a free first class or sessions in a local park.
Rest as Wisdom
In a culture that glorifies hustle, reclaiming rest is an act of healing. Jain asserts, “We can move through the winter of our mind and body, allowing it to deeply rest so that when spring comes, we can move forward with more energy—for the right things, as opposed to everything.” Nature offers a model for this wisdom. Although the natural world seems to be still in winter, vital work occurs beneath the surface. Just as fruit trees need a cold dormancy period to bloom again, we also require periods of quiet renewal. Our cycles of stillness are as essential to growth, creativity and productivity as our cycles of action.
Rest is more than sleep; it is a way of tuning in. “When we slow down, it’s not just about regeneration,” explains Jain. “It’s about listening to the body’s wisdom, slowing down enough to access deeper intuitions and guidance about our next steps.” Our cycles of rest serve as a teacher. By slowing down, we gain the wisdom, focus and resilience to fully embrace a life renewed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Indoor Oasis
How Houseplants Transform the Winter Blues
by Maya Whitman
As winter draws near and we seek refuge indoors, many of us notice a dip in physical energy and emotional well-being. Houseplants offer more than aesthetic appeal in our homes and workplaces; they rebalance our indoor environments and foster inner calm. Whether it’s a lush philodendron cascading from a bookcase or an elegant orchid on a coffee table, plants infuse life into any space.
With a variety of colors, sizes and maintenance levels, a green thumb isn’t required to create inviting, mood-lifting corners of greenery. Caring for plants can be an enjoyable, calming and uplifting experience, but simply being around them enhances our well-being. Research indicates that spending time with houseplants lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol, reduces worry and improves postsurgical outcomes in hospital patients.
Indoor plants transform the ambience wherever they are placed. “Their presence alone lifts mood. My home feels softer, calmer and more alive when plants are around me in winter. Even one thriving plant in your space can shift the energy,” says Dana Carpenter, a horticultural advisor and founder of the Fancy Plants Club, an online resource for successful houseplant management.
Practical Beauty
Plants add moisture to dry indoor air, benefiting skin and respiratory health during the cold season. Varieties with broad, large leaves
have a greater humidifying effect. For lush appeal and moisturizing benefits, choose dracaena, ficus benjamina, philodendron, peace lily, areca and bamboo palms. A 2005 study presented to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests that English ivy is ideal for allergy sufferers because of its potential to reduce airborne mold spores.
“Plants are sensory by nature and stimulate the senses through touch, sight, sound, smell and taste,” says Alicia Green, a horticulturist and coordinator of Buehler Enabling Garden at the Chicago Botanic Garden. “Tending to a plant also subtly promotes a sense of responsibility and accountability that can contribute to emotional grounding.”
Carpenter agrees, stating, “When I am watering, pruning or just checking on my plants, my senses are engaged as I notice the texture of the leaves, the smell of soil, even the sound of water trickling. Caring for my plants offers a natural break in the rhythm of my day.”
A Refuge From the Winter Blues
Plants provide solace for those that find the colder months challenging, particularly individuals with seasonal affective disorder. “In the winter, when the light feels scarce and the days drag, even one corner filled with a few thriving plants, a cozy chair and maybe a grow light disguised as decor can change the energy of a room,” Carpenter reflects. “Just sitting near your green zone with tea in the morning turns it into a place you look forward to, especially during gray months.”
Plants add comfort, warmth and support in spaces where we practice mindful meditation, prayer or yoga. Beautiful blooms beside photographs of loved ones celebrate happy memories. A group of plants in varying shades can transform a cozy reading nook, enliven a kitchen corner, add vibrance to a kids’ playroom or lend an exotic touch to a sunny bathroom.
Choosing the right plants that fit our individual lifestyles makes it easy to follow our bliss. “Snake plant tolerates very low light and can be placed in almost any room with a window. It also has very low watering requirements, thus making it a very low-maintenance houseplant,” advises Green. “Pothos and peace lily can also be placed away from a window, as they are very tolerant of low light.”
Green also recommends using flowering plants such as amaryllis bulbs during winter months to add color to a room, and she encourages novice indoor gardeners to consider succulents and phalaenopsis orchids for their beauty and low-water requirements. Festive-blooming cyclamen is also a favorite for its tendency to thrive in autumn and winter.
According to Carpenter, all plants are joyful additions to the home, including fragrant herbs on a windowsill. “Brushing your hand across rosemary releases that fresh, grounding scent, which feels especially comforting when the world outside is cold and bare.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Tamara Chuchkova from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Healing Power of the Microbiome
The microbiome is one of the most important foundations of our health. These microbes support digestion, nutrient absorption, create a barrier against invaders, neutralize toxins, regulate immune responses, control inflammation, and produce vital vitamins and neurotransmitters that influence our brain. Often called the ‘second brain,’ the gut contains its own nervous system, the enteric nervous system which connects to the brain through the Vagus nerve. This gut-brain axis allows microbes to influence mental health as chemical messengers that are either calming or inflammatory. An inflamed gut equals an inflamed brain.
When microbes digest fiber, they produce short fatty chain acids (SCFAs)which include butyrate. Butyrate helps ‘plug leaks’ in the gut lining. When the microbiome becomes imbalanced, known as gut dysbiosis, the gut lining can become permeable (leaky gut), allowing toxins and food particles to leak into the bloodstream. This triggers systemic inflammation and contributes to food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, and mental health issues. Healthy gut bacteria produce essential brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glutamate, and BDNF, Ninety percent of serotonin is made in the gut.
GABA calms the nervous system and normalizes brain waves. BDNF supports the growth and protection of brain cells, and glutamate is crucial for learning and memory.
Without a diverse microbial community, harmful bacteria can take over. Antibiotics, which are not selective, can wipe out the entire microbiome, taking years to replenish. It can allow antibiotic resistant strains
like Clostridium difficile to gain a foothold, which has been linked to Autism and chronic diarrhea. ADHD is a manifestation of a deficient microbiome leading to leaky gut and chronic inflammation from triggers like gluten, affecting the brain response. All health conditions begin in the gut and start with microbial imbalance.
Many factors begin at birth including C-sections, bottle feeding and antibiotics. Other contributors are poor diet, artificial sweeteners, gluten, NSAIDs and antibacterial products that absorb through the skin. Yet, we can rebuild our microbiome. We must consider we are not only eating for ourselves but our microbes.
Include fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, pickled vegetables, and yogurt with live cultures. Take quality probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Which are important for mental health and the more you have will crowd out pathogenic bacteria
like Candida. Consider probiotic enemas if you've had repeated antibiotics. Feed your microbes prebiotic foods high in inulin like onions, garlic, leeks, artichokes, chicory, and dandelion greens. Resistant starches reach the colon fully intact to feed good bacteria, found in legumes, grains, unripe bananas, green peas and rice that has been cooked and cooled. Other sources of fiber include oats, flaxseed, apples and psyllium husk. For severe conditions, FMT (fecal microbial transplants) have shown to make drastic improvements.
As the microbiome gains more popularity, there are companies you can send out your stool to have your microbiome analyzed. A healthy gut truly leads to a healthy mind and body.
For more info: Soul Natural Alchemy, Leah Mary Quirk Soul. NaturalAlchemy@outlook.com. 610-438-0689. SoulNaturalAlchemy.com. Easton, PA. See ad, page 4.
Navigating Life’s Transitions
by Marlaina Donato
As autumn’s wick burns low and sunsets unfurl their glory at an earlier hour, November emerges as a time of profound spiritual healing when we can learn how to navigate life’s transitions. Whether we are challenged by the chill of cooler temperatures, battling the grip of seasonal affective disorder or enduring the unpredictable waves of inner change, this sometimes-dim threshold into winter presents an opportunity for us to illuminate our own paths.
We might have to work a little harder to achieve our comfort, but simple pleasures like unplugging from our devices every afternoon to savor a hot cup of tea or a mug of frothy hot chocolate can help us find a lovely groove. Stocking up on cozy slipper socks, making savory stews in the slow cooker and flopping into a favorite
well-worn chair with an inviting book are easy ways to guide our nervous system toward a slower rhythm.
As trees, plants and animals prepare for winter, we too can heed nature’s cue, despite our constant, on-the-go tendencies. The Persian poet Hafiz wrote, “I felt in need of a great pilgrimage, so I sat still for three days.” This reminds us that seeking quietude can be a gateway to realizing that we already possess what we truly need.
Tending to our own hearth—both literally and metaphorically—can be equally as enriching as traveling the world. Home is not just a physical structure that surrounds us, but also a rich and fulfilling realm within us. It’s a sacred place where we can find soul nourishment as the seasons change outside our door.
Here are a few gentle nudges for the last month of autumn:
• Indulge in specialty teas, coffees or cocoas.
• Enjoy a candlelit breakfast or dinner.
• Burn a cinnamon stick as a natural incense.
• Take a moment to observe twilight and savor the tranquility.
• Luxuriate in soft blankets and fluffy pillows.
• Write a snail-mail letter on beautiful paper to a special someone.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
The Virtual Care Revolution for Pets
Tips for Navigating Telemedicine and Teleadvice Platforms
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Virtual care, including online consultations with licensed veterinarians and wellness professionals, has become essential in modern pet health. While many pet parents are familiar with telemedicine, teleadvice is less understood. Comprehending their differences and limitations is important.
Telemedicine
The American Veterinary Medical Association defines telemedicine as patient-specific medical care delivered by licensed veterinarians with an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship, which typically requires an in-person examination before a veterinarian can legally diagnose, prescribe or treat via virtual platforms. It complements in-person care, merging professional expertise with convenience.
Through telemedicine, veterinarians can diagnose common health concerns, recommend treatments, prescribe medications where permitted by law and provide follow-up care for ongoing conditions. Everyday issues such as skin irritations, minor allergies, digestive upsets, appetite changes and certain behavioral questions can often be addressed in a video
consultation, giving pet owners reassurance and a clear plan of action. For animals with chronic conditions, virtual check-ins provide a stress-free way to monitor progress without frequent clinic visits.
Telemedicine services are most trusted and valued when delivered by a familiar veterinary provider. A 2024 randomized, controlled clinical trial in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that pet owners are highly satisfied with telemedicine conducted by their regular veterinarian and prefer video-based recheck examinations after routine procedures. These findings support earlier research in Preventive Veterinary Medicine indicating that pet owners are willing to pay for telemedicine services provided by their own veterinarian.
Teleadvice
Any consultation with non-veterinary professionals or pet health experts is considered teleadvice. It is educational, offering guidance such as encouraging annual wellness exams, promoting year-round parasite prevention or supporting better nutrition and lifestyle choices. While it can enhance a pet’s well-being, teleadvice does not involve diagnosing, prescribing or treating an animal.
Complementary teleadvice can add real value to a pet’s well-being, especially when delivered by certified professionals. Recent research in Frontiers in Veterinary Science demonstrated how video appointments
From the pet parent perspective, online consultations can still be done with compassion while providing ample time to explain strategies and answer questions. Muzal says that pet parents describe feeling more confident and empowered to address their pet’s recurring health concerns after their virtual sessions. She also gets feedback that pet parents find their pets are calmer and more balanced with online meetings.
improved cat parents’ understanding of their pet’s chronic mobility challenges and the application of at-home management strategies. Many pet health coaches deliver their services exclusively through online platforms. These virtual sessions can guide pet parents through dietary planning, safe exercise routines or stress reduction strategies.
Email: F: 610-421-4445
Laura Muzal, a holistic intuitive animal practitioner and certified holistic pet health coach, offers virtual consultations focused on nutrition, lifestyle support and energy work. “Meeting with pet parents virtually allows me to understand their concerns in real time, support them from anywhere and help them create simple, practical steps they can follow at home to support their animal’s well-being,” she says.
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With the convenience of virtual consultations comes the responsibility to stay informed. Not every professional offering advice online operates under the same legal or ethical framework. Before booking any virtual consultation, pet parents must confirm who they are speaking with and under what authority they operate. Verifying whether the provider is a licensed veterinarian or a certified pet health expert helps ensure the advice given is appropriate and trustworthy. This clarity allows pets to receive the right care from the right expert at the right time.
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Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
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
Approximately 34 to 36 million people in the United States live with Type 2 diabetes, yet many cases go undiagnosed. Additionally, about 88 million individuals have prediabetes, a reversible condition marked by higher blood sugar levels that have not yet reached diabetic status. Glucose stability is crucial for everyone and can be the root cause of symptoms like low energy (especially in the afternoon), mood swings, increased belly fat, food cravings, brain fog, hormonal imbalances and loss of libido.
Fluctuating blood sugar levels affect all of us, especially after high-carb meals or skipping meals. Our diet directly influences our metabolic processes. By choosing nutrient-dense foods, replacing high-sugar and high-carbohydrate snacks with healthier options and timing meals wisely, we can achieve balance. Incorporating blood sugar-stabilizing spices and herbs into daily meals can also have a positive impact.
Blood Sugar Basics
“Because glucose is a crucial fuel of the brain and body, there are many backup systems and ways to create glucose,” explains Iginio Stoppa, a naturopathic doctor at Sonoran University of Health Sciences, in Tempe, Arizona. “The absorption of glucose from our food, the production of glucose mainly from the liver and the breakdown of the storage form of glucose called glycogen is what contributes to what we see as blood sugar.” Stoppa also notes that we may notice when our blood sugar is off. Low blood sugar, for example, is often felt through symptoms like anxiety, weakness, tingling, sweating and palpitations.
“Everyone experiences natural rises and dips throughout the day. Skipping meals, leaning on caffeine for energy, eating a lot of refined carbohydrates or grabbing quick, processed snacks can all cause sharp spikes, followed by sudden crashes,” says Jennifer Ribaudo, a clinical herbalist, educator and
owner of Desert Moon Botanicals, in Gilbert, Arizona.
It is advisable to avoid high carbohydrate and sugary foods, especially in the morning or before bed. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates like lentils, beans, sweet potatoes and oats to provide essential macronutrients and prevent glucose spikes. Sonoran University recommends eating certain foods in a specific order, such as eggs or avocado before bread and roasted vegetables with olive oil before pasta, to manage glucose levels.
Eating and Snacking To Thrive
Jacqui Garrison, a San Diego-based health coach, suggests eating most calories before dinner and having an earlier, lighter evening meal to reduce overnight blood sugar spikes that can negatively affect sleep quality. She recommends 30 to 40 grams of clean protein per meal; if animal protein is included, five ounces or the size of a loose fist is ideal. Aim for two servings of leafy greens, colorful veggies or whole fruit per meal, equivalent to half the plate or two open hands. Add one to two thumb-sized portions of healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil or nuts to complete the meal.
For snacks, Garrison suggests a hardboiled egg or hummus with a handful of carrots, a cup of edamame in the pod or nitrite-free turkey slices in the afternoon. For an evening boost, she recommends “something light and protein-forward like half a cup of cottage cheese with cinnamon and berries.”
Stoppa supports high-quality protein and naturally low-glycemic index foods like wild blueberries, blackberries and chickpeas, which provide polyphenols and saponins that slow glucose absorption.
Herbal Help
Ribaudo emphasizes that blood sugar-supportive herbs can smooth out fluctuations. “Using herbs for blood sugar balance doesn’t have to be complicated. A
little cinnamon can be stirred into oatmeal, blended into a smoothie or sprinkled into roasted vegetables or beans. Fenugreek seeds work beautifully in soups, curries and lentil dishes, while moringa leaf powder blends smoothly into salad dressings, sauces or soups.”
Ribaudo also recommends Gymnema sylvestre tincture for pancreatic support and long-term glucose balance, making sugary foods less tempting. Stress-reducing holy basil (tulsi) tea is beneficial during afternoon slumps. She stresses the importance of consulting a professional, especially for those on blood sugar-lowering medications or prone to hypoglycemic dips, as effects can accumulate.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
AUGUST 13th - 20th 202 AUGUST
ASIAN SALMON POWER BOWL
This delicious, nutrient-dense meal is packed with healthy fats, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
4 oz salmon
½ cup whole grain brown rice
½ cup edamame
½ cup carrots, shredded
½ cup cabbage or bok choy, shredded
½ Tbsp sesame seeds
1 Tbsp coconut liquid aminos
1 Tbsp rice vinegar
1 Tbsp scallions, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Cook the rice according to package instructions. Steam and shell the edamame. Sauté the cabbage or bok choy, if using. Grill the salmon and season to taste.
Layer cooked rice, edamame, carrot and cabbage or bok choy in a bowl. Add salmon.
Whisk coconut aminos and rice vinegar together then pour over the contents of the bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Top with scallions and cilantro.
Recipe courtesy of Jacqui Garrison.
OVERNIGHT CINNAMON DATE OATS
This is a perfect late-autumn breakfast or snack with protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
½ cup organic rolled oats
1 Tbsp ground flaxseeds
¼ cup organic, unsweetened peanut, almond or sunflower butter
1 to 2 Medjool dates, finely chopped
¾ cup unsweetened coconut, almond or soy milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp powdered Ceylon cinnamon
Place all ingredients in a bowl or Mason jar and stir well. Store overnight in the refrigerator for cold oats or on the counter for room-temperature oats in the morning.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
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Editorial Calendar
Wednesday, November 5
Stress Relief and Heart Health 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, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Wednesday, November 12
Anxiety & Stress Relief 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 LVBreinigsville, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Tuesday, November 18
Anxiety Relief & Brain Health with Effortless Meditation™ – 6:30-7:45pm. Physicians recommend this meditation technique as a key to self-care. Gain relief from stress, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, OCD, and more. FREE Introduction, LIVE ONLINE Video Conference, Pre-register 610-670-6700.
Wednesday, November 26
Stress & Insomnia Relief 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.
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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 i s 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.
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Natural Awakenings empowers our readers with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.
Be a resource for our health conscious readers seeking products and services like yours. 610-421-4443
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.
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 3.
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.
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 18.
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, mid-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.
HEALING WAVE CHIROPRACTIC
Shaun M Gallagher, DC 425 Allentown Drive, Allentown, PA 18109 484-222-8855 HealingWaveChiro.com info@healingwavechiro.com
Experience gentle, transformative care with NetworkSpinal— low-force chiropractic without cracking—just natural, hands-on healing for stress, trauma, and a better future. Feel balanced, build resilience, and connect to your body’s innate wisdom. State-of-the-art testing guides personalized care plans for lasting results. Ready to reclaim your vitality? Start your journey today with a free consultation!
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 3.
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 12.
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.
TMS CENTER
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. See ads, pages 2.
The EE System generates bio-active energy fields called “Scalar Waves”. These promote wellness, cell regeneration, improved immune function, relieve pain, body detoxification, elevated mood, and balancing of the right and left-brain hemispheres for increased energy levels. Ultimately, it assists in facilitating an optimal healing environment that can assist the body to begin healing itself.
Events & Retreats Resort
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 15.
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.
Green Cemetery
GREEN MEADOWS AT FOUNTAIN HILL CEMETERY 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 25.
Hyperbaric Therapy
ELIXIR HEALTH & WELLNESS
Hypnosis & Hypnosis Training
STREAM HYPNOSIS, LLC
40 South 5th St Suite 203 Allentown 18101 570-617-5325 vperweiss@streamhypnosis.com www.StreamHypnosis.com
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. See ad, page 7.
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.
Kangen Water
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.
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. See ad, page 3.
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 9.
Marketing
NATURAL AWAKENINGS
DR. DEKA RODGER ND, MBA Owner/Publisher 610-421-4443
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!
Wellness Spa
MAGNOLIA INN & WELLNESS CENTER
570 671-2121
11 Knob Road Mt Poconos, PA 18325
magnoliapoconos.com oksanna@magnloiapoconos.com
Classifieds
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.
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
Kathy Hatcher, LMT 656 5th St., Whitehall, PA 18052 610-266-6111
KonnectionsMassage.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 15.
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.
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 610-6984921.
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.
