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February is often associated with hearts—on cards, in shop windows and in familiar gestures of affection. Yet beneath the symbolism lies something far more meaningful. Our hearts are living, responsive organs shaped every day by how we eat, move, rest, connect and care for ourselves and one another.
Behind sobering statistics about cardiovascular disease is a quieter and more hopeful truth: small, consistent choices matter. The way we nourish our bodies, manage stress, sleep at night, move through our days and relate to others all leave an imprint on heart health over time. This month invites us not toward perfection or fear, but toward awareness and compassion.
Our February feature story, “A Whole-Hearted Life: The Daily Choices That Help Our Hearts Thrive,” by Hannah Tytus, explores heart health as an integrated experience—one that extends beyond cholesterol numbers and blood pressure readings. Through research and expert insight, the article reminds us that cardiovascular well-being is shaped as much by optimism, connection and purpose as it is by food and fitness. The heart, it turns out, responds not only to what we do, but how we live.
Throughout this issue, you will find practical and accessible ways to support heart health from multiple angles. From nutrition and movement to mindfulness, sleep and time in nature, these pages emphasize that care does not need to be extreme to be effective. A short walk outside, a few mindful breaths, a shared meal, a good night’s rest or reaching out to someone you love can all be acts of cardiovascular care.
At Natural Awakenings, we believe health is not built in isolation. It is cultivated through community, education and daily choices that honor the whole person—body, mind and spirit—within a living ecosystem. As you explore this issue, we hope you feel encouraged rather than overwhelmed, inspired rather than instructed.
May this month be an invitation to listen a little more closely to your heart, tend to it with patience and kindness and remember that caring for yourself is not separate from caring for the world around you.
In health and gratitude,
Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher
Jordan Peschek
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During your visits with us, you can expect a focus on comfortable, modern and safe dental care. We are committed to offering patients the latest, state-of-the-art dental techniques, materials, and technologies where quality is important and consistency is prioritized.
Antidote Health Co is a growing functional medicine and personalized primary care practice committed to offering a more thoughtful, patient-centered approach to health care. Founded by Dr. Kelly Darmody, M.D., who previously practiced in traditional healthcare settings, Antidote was created to give patients what they so often lacked: time, connection, deeper investigation and a true partnership in their well-being.
Antidote Health Co is also excited to welcome Erica Reigle, NP, who joins the practice to expand access to personalized primary care. Erica provides extended visits, chronic condition management, annual exams, sick visits and ongoing support—all delivered with the same relationship-focused model that defines the practice. Her addition allows Antidote to offer a seamless blend of everyday medical care and deeper functional medicine evaluation under one roof.
Together, Dr. Kelly and Erica provide a warm, accessible and integrative care experience designed to support long-term wellness, prevention and
Karina Ramsey Launches New Website, Welcomes New Astrology Clients
Holistic wellness educator astrologer and spiritual counselor, Karina Ramsey, announces the launch of her new website, MerakiWorkshops. com, now open to new clients throughout Southeast Wisconsin and beyond. Karina specializes in astrology, tarot and reiki healing, guiding individuals to embrace authenticity and live with purpose. She emphasizes that “an authentic life is one we make with our own hands.”
Through her classes and private sessions, Karina helps clients heal, nourish and bloom by discovering their unique design, innate abilities and creative spirit. Her offerings include astrology chart readings, private yoga classes, tarot consultations and energy-balancing reiki sessions, each tailored to promote self-awareness and holistic well-being.
“In an astrology reading, you learn about your essences, your personal planets, how you communicate, how you go after what you want, your personality, love language, the purpose of your soul in this lifetime,” Karina explains. “In a reiki healing session, we address issues to release energy blocks, bring balance to chakras and raise your energetic vibration.”
Karina’s work encourages self-discovery, personal empowerment and a deeper connection to nature, community and oneself. Rooted in her mission to inspire authentic living through natural, artistic and spiritual practices, she teaches in Pleasant Prairie, Racine, Kenosha and Caledonia, with virtual options available for remote clients. Her creative frameworks support personal empowerment rooted in nature, art and ancient wisdom.
Location: 6501 3rd Ave., Kenosha. To learn more or schedule a session, visit MerakiWorkshops.com, email Karina.Ramsey@myyahoo.com or call 262-455-3630. See listing on page 33.
Karina Ramsey
Naturopathic Doctor to Lead Plant-Power Cooking Class
Cooking can be one of the most powerful steps you take toward better health—and it doesn’t have to be complicated. “A plant-forward diet rich in fiber can be a powerful step towards optimal health, supporting a healthy gut microbiome, sharp brain, balanced hormones and healthy metabolism,” explains Sarah Axtell, naturopathic doctor.
Dr. Axtell explains that a diet rich in fiber-rich plants has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, pancreatic cancer and colon cancer. Research has shown that a diet high in fiber can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 10 percent and all-cause mortality (risk of dying) by 11 percent for every 10 grams of fiber consumed daily.
Fiber also plays a crucial role in regulating estrogen levels, reducing cholesterol and supporting a healthy gut microbiome—which in turn supports brain function and hormone balance. A plant-forward diet has been linked to improved cognitive function and even improved symptoms of menopause and PMS.
Join Dr. Axtell for a two-part Plant Power Cooking Class at 9:30 a.m. and noon on March 5 that’ll be limited to a small group of eight people that offers plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The workshop will cover meal prep, grocery shopping and cooking techniques, and it will provide participants with a comprehensive guidebook and recipes. “You don’t need to go vegan or vegetarian to reap the benefits of a plant-forward diet,” says Dr. Axtell. “This approach is about adding more plants to your plate, not cutting out your favorite foods.”
Workshop cost $130. Call Lakeside Natural Medicine to register: 414939-8748. Visit LakesideNaturalMedicine.com or email Info@LakesideNaturalMedicine.com to inquire more. Location: 3510 N. Oakland Ave., Ste. 203, Shorewood. See ad on this page.
Unlocking Deep Healing: The Transformative Power of Metatronic Quantum Healing
Heart Speak Quantum Healing, located just outside West Bend, is gaining recognition in the wellness community for its emphasis on deep, soul-level healing. Founded by Shera (Mary Jordan), who has over 20 years of personal healing experience and over a decade of working with clients, Heart Speak Quantum Healing aims to guide individuals toward joy, peace and holistic health.
As the only Metatronic Quantum Healer in Wisconsin and one of fewer than 50 certified practitioners worldwide, Shera offers transformative healing sessions for clients who are ready to elevate their healing journey. Each session focuses on healing the root causes of issues that have often remained unresolved by other methods. Sessions are conducted over Zoom, allowing clients from both local and global locations to access this powerful form of quantum healing.
In addition to being a certified Metatronic Quantum Healer, Shera is a licensed massage therapist and a Mesa Carrier in Peruvian shamanism. She has extensive training in multiple other healing modalities including Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique (QHHT), Crystalline Harmonics, Reiki and mediumship.
To discover more information about the power of Metatronic Quantum Healing or to schedule a session with Shera, visit HeartSpeak.love or email Shera@HeartSpeak.love See ad on page 9.
Dr. Sarah Axtell
Mary Jordan
Body-Centered Therapy for Trauma
A 2021 review of 16 studies published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology found that somatic experiencing, a body-centered therapy for trauma, helped reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and also improved emotional and physical well-being.
The studies demonstrated notable improvements in anxiety, mood and physical symptoms such as muscle tightness and pain. Benefits were observed in individuals with traumatic histories, as well as those without trauma, suggesting that somatic experiencing may support overall nervous system regulation.
Conceived by Dr. Peter A. Levine, the therapy seeks to address the accumulation of stress, shock and trauma in the body and nervous system. It empowers people to cultivate increasing tolerance for difficult bodily sensations and suppressed emotions by paying close attention to internal sensations, including body tension, breathing patterns and even their heartbeat.
Eye Yoga for Glaucoma
A 2024 randomized, controlled study published in EPMA Journal explored whether a structured “eye yoga” routine could help people with primary, open-angle glaucoma—the most common form of glaucoma that often damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure and reduced blood flow. Researchers measured the effects of eye-focused relaxation on eye pressure, vessel function and vision.
Twenty-seven adults were randomly assigned to either a one-hour daily reading of a relaxing book or an eye yoga program that included guided eye movements, gentle massage around the eyeball, hand-covering for relaxation and slow-breathing meditation. After one month, the eye yoga group experienced a 6 percent reduction in intraocular pressure. They also improved visual-field measurements and displayed less retinal vessel constriction. Retinal arteries showed mild widening, suggesting improved blood flow, with no adverse events reported. These effects were not observed in the control group. Researchers concluded that this type of eye yoga could be a safe, home-based complement to standard care.
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Mind-Body Practices for Cancer Survivors
A multisite study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology involving 587 cancer survivors compared two mind-body programs: Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR), which incorporates meditation and awareness practices, and Tai Chi/Qigong (TCQ), which uses gentle, slow movements to promote relaxation and balance. The participants—mostly women around age 61—selected their preferred program or were randomly assigned if they had no preference. The most prevalent cancer types among them were breast, prostate and gastrointestinal.
Both MBCR and TCQ demonstrated a positive impact on mood scores, surpassing those observed in the control group. Notably, TCQ produced the most relief from anger and depression, as well as an increase in energy levels. MBCR proved particularly effective in reducing tension and anxiety, although it did not significantly affect depression. Neither program exhibited any effect on confusion or fatigue, and the selection of a preferred program did not influence the outcomes.
Microbiome Therapies for Depression
A 2025 systemic review published in BMC Psychiatry involving 34 clinical trials and more than 3,300 people found that depression symptoms could be effectively treated by targeting gut bacteria with the use of probiotics (beneficial bacteria), prebiotics (nutrients that feed good bacteria) and synbiotics (a combination of both). The therapies were shown to reduce depression scores, increase levels of BDNF (an important protein for brain health) and mitigate systemic inflammation.
Notably, synbiotics exhibited the most pronounced effectiveness, followed by prebiotics and probiotics. Treatment for longer than 12 weeks was not considered helpful. Those without other medical conditions fared better, while individuals with digestive disorders and pregnant women did not experience the benefits. These findings suggest that enhancing gut health may be a useful complementary tool for depression management.
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North America’s Largest Wildlife Overpass Opens
Colorado’s new wildlife overpass crossing I-25 is among the world’s largest animal-crossing structures over a major roadway. Spanning six lanes of interstate traffic, it seamlessly connects 39,000 acres of habitat on either side. This gradually sloped, 200-by-209-foot bridge is expertly designed to encourage the larger wildlife to use it.
Unlike tunnels, which big game animals avoid due to restricted mobility and antler clearance, this open structure offers clear sight lines. The project aims to link wildlife corridors and to preserve open spaces near water in an area known for high movement of large game such as elk, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. Studies predict a 90 percent reduction in wildlife-vehicle crashes, where there was once an average of one collision per day. The $15 million multi-agency project marks a bold step in wildlife conservation, balancing transportation needs with ecosystem health and ensuring the safety of both motorists and wildlife.
A Turtle’s Resilience and the Power of Proper Care
Rockalina, an eastern box turtle, was rescued in early 2025 by Garden State Tortoise (GST), a New Jersey reptile rehabilitation center, after spending nearly 50 years living in captivity on a kitchen floor, eating only cat food, which left her with discolored skin, deformed claws and blindness. Showing remarkable resilience, she has recovered and thrived after a treatment of warm baths, proper food and days spent in a forest-like setting with natural light and plenty of space for burrowing, hiding, exploring and even hunting and eating live earthworms.
Rockalina’s inspiring journey gained global fame through GST videos and photos, showing her enjoying a strawberry, displaying curiosity and natural instincts, walking tall and recently meeting a baby turtle companion. Rockalina’s recovery demonstrates the ability of animals to bounce back from severe neglect and underscores the importance of proper care for reptiles and all creatures.
According to the National Wildlife Federation, eastern box turtles are five to six inches long, and they inhabit ponds, fields, meadows and woodlands throughout the eastern United States. Their diet includes berries, insects, roots, flowers, eggs and amphibians. When threatened, they retract their limbs and close their shells. While they are very popular pets, many people release them into the wild when they no longer wish to care for them. This practice can be detrimental to domesticated turtles that struggle to adapt to a vastly different environment. It is best to drop them off at a local animal shelter or veterinarian.
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Conquering Continents on Foot
Karl Bushby, 56, is about to complete his “Goliath Expedition”, a monumental journey to walk or swim around the entire Earth without using motorized transport. The epic trek began in Chile in 1998 and is set to conclude in his hometown of Hull, England, by September 2026. As a former British Army paratrooper, Bushby is driven by a thirst for travel and adventure, leading him to make a bet with friends to achieve this seemingly impossible feat.
Bushby has conquered 25 countries, navigating deserts, mountains, jungles and war zones, often camping outdoors or occasionally staying in people’s homes. He has faced the perilous Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia, crossed the icy Bering Strait between Russia and Alaska, and more. Despite extreme weather, visa issues, the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of loneliness, he has remained steadfast in his quest of 27 years.
Innovative Utah Freeway for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Imagine being able to bike or walk on a paved path that connects to towns, state parks and mountain trails without ever having to fight cars or worry about road crossings. This ambitious project is underway in Utah, setting a precedent for other states to emulate.
Construction has begun on the Utah Trail Network, a 3,100-mile system of paved, unmotorized trails that will connect people of all ages and abilities to their destinations and communities. This interstate network will be entirely separate from vehicle traffic, ensuring comfort and accessibility for walking, biking or “rolling”. Approximately 500 miles are already in place.
The mission is to enhance recreation, boost tourism and provide safer commuting by linking cities, schools, workplaces and trailheads. Upon completion, 95 percent of Utah residents will live within a mile of the network. The state legislature has committed $45 million in ongoing funding and an additional $45 million one-time funding to the Utah Department of Transportation to plan, build and operate this regional trail network.
Support has come from family, individual donors and corporate sponsors. His memoir, Giant Steps, was published in 2008, and there is even talk of a potential feature film deal. Overwhelming kindness from strangers has followed the mission, affirming his belief that the world is kinder than it often appears. What began as a friendly wager has transformed into a life-changing experience, inspiring others to keep moving forward and embrace adventure.
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A Whole-Hearted Life
The Daily Choices That Help Our Hearts Thrive
by Hannah Tytus
Ahealthy heart is built from the inside out. Each day presents opportunities to nurture vitality through dietary choices, physical activity, restful periods, social connections and personal fulfillment. These ordinary decisions profoundly impact the long-term trajectory of cardiovascular well-being.
According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 32 percent of global fatalities and affecting families across diverse communities. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that one in three deaths in the United States can be attributed to this devastating disease.
Behind these sobering statistics lies the reassuring fact that small, daily choices can help protect the heart.
Heart-Healthy Foods
Among the most studied heart-supportive eating strategies are the Mediterranean Diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Diet, which help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. Both emphasize the consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts, while limiting saturated fat and processed meats. Additionally, eating fatty fish provides whole-food omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be more effective than comparable supplements in supporting heart
health, according to a 2018 study published in JAMA Cardiology.
Dr. Regina Druz, based on Long Island, New York, is the founder of Holistic Heart Centers of America and a board-certified specialist in cardiology and functional medicine. Her expertise lies in heart disease prevention through holistic, lifestyle-driven care. She is the author of a forthcoming book, Longevity Code: How to Age-Proof Yourself for Optimal Health
A proponent of the Mediterranean Diet, Druz encourages patients to build a way of eating that feels natural, flavorful and balanced. She emphasizes the significance of meal timing and its alignment with a person’s circadian rhythm. She also often recommends moderate intermittent fasting, as long as it is done safely, sustainably and personalized to the individual.
According to Druz, dietary changes are most powerful when they are part of a larger, three-pillared foundation that includes exercise, nutrition and sleep. She discourages people from searching for a single magic bullet and instead invites them to build a way of eating that feels natural, flavorful and balanced.
Mindfulness and Mood
The intricate connection between the mind and heart is often underestimated. Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and induce inflammation, placing a burden on the cardiovascular system. Stress reduction does not have to be complicated. Even a few minutes of mindful breathing or meditation can shift the body into a more relaxed state, offering the heart a small but meaningful reprieve.
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Mindful awareness practices appear to have favorable effects on blood pressure, cortisol levels and inflammatory markers, suggesting that everyday mind-body tools can provide meaningful support. A 2007 report published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality found that Transcendental Meditation (TM), qigong and Zen Buddhist meditation yielded modest reductions in high blood pressure. A 2019 meta-analysis of TM for heart disease demonstrated improvements in blood pressure levels.
Biofeedback involves measuring bodily functions, particularly heart rate variability, to enable individuals to consciously alter these functions. It can track how slow breathing techniques help the heart relax. Notably, biofeedback has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure levels, according to a 2024 meta-analysis study published in Nature.
Healing Power of Slumber
Sleep is integral to heart health. A 2017 study published in Chest reports an association between insomnia and cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and heart failure. Furthermore, a 2011 study in Circulation demonstrates a link between insomnia and a moderately increased risk for a heart attack.
Druz collaborates with sleep specialists that use wearable technology, such as the SleepImage device, to assess sleep quality in real time. She has observed that even modest adjustments to sleep habits can yield significant improvements—from changing sleep positions and recalibrating room humidity to optimizing sleep times and reorienting bed pillows. By tracking sleep patterns over time, individuals can identify subtle shifts that contribute to a quantifiably better night’s rest.
Benefits of Consistent Exercise
Regular physical activity remains a cornerstone in reducing cardiovascular risk. The 2004 INTERHEART study, involving nearly
30,000 participants from 52 countries, revealed that moderately intense exercise for four or more hours per week reduced the risk of a heart attack by 12.2 percent.
A 2011 cohort study published in Lancet involving more than 400,000 participants showed that engaging in as little as 15 minutes of daily physical activity can reduce the risk of mortality by 14 percent and extend life expectancy by an average of three years. Each additional 15-minute interval can further decrease mortality across all age groups, including individuals with preexisting cardiovascular disease.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as an effective regimen for promoting cardiovascular fitness. According to Druz, HIIT maximizes VO2 max (the maximum volume of oxygen a body can use during intense exercise), a key indicator of cardiovascular health and strong predictor of longevity. However, she acknowledges that HIIT may not be accessible to everyone because it alternates short periods of intense, explosive exercise with brief recovery periods to the point of exhaustion.
In such cases, she recommends incorporating “exercise snacks” into daily routines, which involve brief bursts of movement throughout the day. Walking the dog, carrying groceries, completing household chores or simply standing more frequently can contribute to a less sedentary lifestyle. These accessible steps make it easier to integrate movement into daily living.
Nature’s Rewards
Spending time outdoors provides more than aesthetic appeal and access to fresh air. Living closer to nature has been linked to lower incidences of cardiovascular disease, stress, diabetes and stroke. Exposure to green space is associated with lower blood pressure, improved heart rate variability and reduced cardiovascular mortality.
A 2016 study in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases involving nearly 12,000 participants observed that the more recreation time someone spends outdoors, the less likely they are to die of cardiovascular disease.
The Transformative Energy of Optimism
Outlook influences physiology. Positive emotions, optimism and life satisfaction are associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease and reduced mortality. The American Heart Association (AHA) notes that compared to pessimistic individuals, optimistic people have better vascular health, fewer heart attacks and lower cardiovascular mortality. Among individuals with established disease, those that are optimistic about their treatment and recovery often experience better rates of long-term survival and enhanced function.
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Optimism is a skill, not a fixed trait. The AHA identifies Type D (or “distressed”) personality traits, characterized by negative emotions and increased self-criticism, as being linked to poorer cardiovascular outcomes. Encouragingly, Type D individuals often respond favorably to cardiac rehabilitation programs that combine physical activity with counseling and psychological support.
Volunteer work also contributes to well-being. A 2017 study in BMC Public Health determined that regular volunteering is associated with enhanced self-rated health and reduced mortality. Older adults that engaged in volunteer work at least 200 hours per year experienced a 40 percent reduction in hypertension over a fouryear period.
These findings underscore the significance of joy and purpose in human life. They are integral to the biology of the heart. When individuals cultivate a more compassionate perspective toward themselves and others, their hearts experience a measurable positive impact.
increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a 32 percent increased risk of stroke. Humans are inherently wired for connection, and extended loneliness can have measurable physiological consequences.
“We need each other,” Druz emphasizes. “We are living in a sea of loneliness, and loneliness can be a hugely impactful factor on health.” Making time for family, friendships, community groups or new social circles fosters both emotional well-being and heart resilience.
Loving Our Heart Back
Cardiovascular health encompasses not only disease prevention, but also the cultivation of a lifestyle that enhances vitality, connection, rest and overall well-being. These choices do not need to be drastic. Incorporating more green vegetables, spending more time in the sun, taking a moment to breathe mindfully, taking a short walk outside, getting a good night’s sleep and reaching out to loved ones can collectively contribute to a foundation that can extend life expectancy and enhance the quality of life.
The Strength of Connection
Relationships exert a powerful influence on health. In a 2016 meta-analysis study published in Heart, researchers determined that poor social relationships were associated with a 29 percent
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator at KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
The Truth About Metabolic Syndrome
by Kathy Osowski
On my last health visit, I was weighed, measured, my blood pressure was taken and a blood sample was also drawn. What I didn’t realize at the time was that my practitioner was quietly assessing my risk for Metabolic Syndrome—a condition that now affects 88 percent of adult Americans. Metabolic Syndrome is diagnosed when three or more of the five key risk factors are present. These include:
• Elevated triglycerides
• Low LDL “good” cholesterol
• Elevated blood glucose
• Elevated blood pressure
• Abdominal obesity: waist circumference greater than 35 inches for women or 40 inches for men
Checking even a few of these boxes is a sign of metabolic dysfunction and should prompt proactive lifestyle modifications.
A Growing Health Crisis
According to a November 2025 study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, only one in eight Americans is considered metabolically healthy. That means just 12 percent of the population meets optimal metabolic health standards, while the remaining 88 percent face an increasing risk of heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. Years of processed foods, chronic stress, sedentary lifestyles and poor sleep habits have contributed to this alarming statistic. The good news is that it is never too late to improve metabolic health.
Five Foundations for Metabolic Wellness
Whether your goal is prevention or reversal of metabolic risk factors, these core lifestyle pillars dramatically improve metabolic function:
• Achieve a healthy weight appropriate for height with an emphasis on body composition.
• Adopt a nutrient-dense diet that focuses on good protein, fiber, vegetables, fruits and healthy fats. For an excellent guide, Susan Rohr, BSN, RN, integrative practitioner and owner of Brookfield Health and Wellness, recommends following the Whole 30 or Mediterranean diet.
• Engage in physical activity daily, such as walking, rebounding, strength training, stretching and yoga.
• Prioritize sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours ideally beginning before midnight.
• Manage stress through breathwork, journaling, connection with others and setting boundaries.
Alternatives to Traditional Exercise
Not everyone enjoys the gym, and for some, injuries, pain and chronic illness make gym exercises difficult. Fortunately, wellness clinics now offer innovative alternatives that support metabolic health without extreme impact.
Vibration frequency and light-based therapies have been widely adopted by professional athletes for their positive impact on performance, exercise recovery, and reducing inflammation. These modalities are gaining
traction among individuals seeking weight management, muscle tone and strength, improved circulation and overall vitality.
“Frequency and vibration therapies have become my go-to modality for baseline fitness,” Rohr says. “Due to my back issues, traditional exercise wasn’t an option. Specific frequency sound vibrations stimulate exercise – like stress on the body, encouraging weight loss, muscle fiber growth, bone density, and circulation – without strain.”
Technologies such as VibraGenix, PowerPlate, infrared Photon Genius sauna, high-intensity magnetic therapy, ARRC photo biomodulation chamber and HOCATT ozone sauna are increasingly used in lieu of or to complement traditional exercise. When combined with healthy lifestyle habits, these are powerful for lean body composition and prevent systemic inflammation.
Living well and living long begins with movement, whole foods, restorative sleep and meaningful relationships. It is possible to grow old with grace and ease when you practice mindful eating, physical movement and supplement with supportive therapies. Make small changes every day to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and prevent chronic disease. There is no greater investment than the one you make in your own health.
Kathy Osowski is the communications director at Brookfield Health & Wellness, located at 150 S. Sunny Slope Rd., Ste. 148, Brookfield, WI. For more information, call 262-395-4023 or visit BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com. See ads on pages 7 and 18.
Nature’s Cardiologist
Herbs and Nutrients That Heal the Heart
by Hannah Tytus
Because heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, management of its risk factors, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, is paramount. “It is easier and more meaningful to prevent disease than to try to reverse the damages,” says holistic cardiologist Joel Kahn, M.D., founder of the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity, in Michigan and Florida, as well as a clinical professor of medicine at the Wayne State University School of Medicine, in Detroit, and author of several books, including The Whole Heart Solution and The Plant-Based Solution.
An integrative approach that combines nutrition, exercise, stress reduction and proper sleep is advised. Additionally, certain herbs and nutritional supplements may serve to prevent disease, as well as enhance medical care. From ancient botanicals to targeted nutrients, these natural allies offer powerful benefits by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
Plant-Centric Nourishment
The Mediterranean Diet and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Diet are the most researched for cardiovascular
health. The Mediterranean Diet emphasizes locally sourced vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts and seafood, with moderate consumption of meat and dairy. The DASH Diet, designed by researchers at the National Institutes of Health, prioritizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy, while limiting sodium, sugar and saturated fat intake. Both diets are well-supported by scientific evidence to improve heart health and reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
Key Supplements
When supplements are warranted, Kahn starts with the basics. “CoQ10 and omega-3s are two very important supplements that work well together,” he asserts. “Most patients on statins [to lower cholesterol] become severely CoQ10 deficient.” CoQ10, a naturally occurring coenzyme, aids in cellular energy production. A 2017 study showed that combining CoQ10 and omega-3s with statins reduced the drug’s negative effects while still lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.
Claudia Joy Wingo, a registered nurse, clinical herbalist and public health educator with more than 45 years of experience, stresses the importance of a nutrient-rich diet over supplements. She prefers whole foods to fish oil supplements. While supplementation can be beneficial, it should ideally accompany whole foods. CoQ10 and omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish, olive oil and a variety of nuts and seeds.
Herbs for Cardiovascular Health
Emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying vascular issues, Wingo explains, “High blood pressure damages epithelial tissue in your arteries, and your body patches things up by laying down cholesterol and plaques.” Ruptured plaques can block blood flow, causing heart attacks. According to Wingo, the best strategies integrate biomedicine with nutritional and herbal support. Medications control blood pressure, while herbs nourish the surrounding tissue. Many herbs contain antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory compounds that may prevent artery damage and atherosclerosis.
Aged Garlic: Although garlic has been used for centuries, modern research has focused on aged extracts specifically for cardiovascular
support, which “lower cholesterol, blood pressure, homocysteine and plaque in heart arteries,” according to Kahn.
Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Kahn recommends combining these two botanical supplements, noting that clinical studies show this pairing can reduce vascular calcifications by approximately 10 percent. Wingo uses gotu kola daily as a tonic herb, adding it to teas for its nervous system-supportive properties that promote mental calmness, improve blood circulation and strengthen blood vessel walls.
Hawthorn: A member of the rose family, hawthorn is Wingo’s most trusted plant for cardiovascular health. Historically used as a heart tonic, it benefits the heart and blood vessels by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting healthy cholesterol levels and protecting the lining of blood vessels. A 2023 review published in Food & Function suggests it may improve circulation, relax blood vessels and prevent the clumping of blood platelets that can lead to clots. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting hawthorn supplements, as it can interact with certain heart medications.
L-Carnitine: To treat people recovering from a cardiac event or those with an arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, Wingo often turns to
L-carnitine, which, she asserts, supports the heart’s mitochondria, thus improving their ability to produce energy.
Ginkgo Biloba: To promote circulation and reduce the risk of plaque-related complications, Wingo occasionally turns to ginkgo biloba to enhance blood flow and help stabilize arterial plaque, lowering the likelihood of rupture.
Polyphenol-Rich Plants: Wingo recommends plants rich in polyphenols for their ability to reduce oxidative stress, including blueberries, cranberries and green tea. For “nervous heart” symptoms, she suggests linden tea, which is used in Europe as a calming agent.
Personalized Treatment and Safety
Both experts stress the importance of personalized, guided care. Instead of following online supplement trends, work with a trained professional to create a targeted plan.
Kahn points out that many popular supplements lack significant research and advises choosing reputable, third-party-tested brands. Wingo shares similar concerns about self-medicating with multiple herbs that do not suit the patient’s condition. She emphasizes that herbs should complement, not replace, conventional medicine, and they are most effective when used with prescribed treatments.
Their advice is clear: Research thoroughly and seek the advice of an experienced clinician, such as a naturopath or an herbalist registered with the American Herbalists Guild. It is also important to consult the patient’s treating cardiologist when considering an herb or supplement, as they may interfere with heart medications or cause unintended side effects that are counterproductive.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator at KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Hawthorn berry tincture
Garlic Therapy
Eating Our Way to a Healthier Heart
by Marlaina Donato
Fresh garlic is a pungent delight that can jazz up any meal, from hearty winter stews to sautéed vegetables on a bed of healthy grains. Allicin, the compound that gives crushed garlic its distinctive smell, protects the plant from pests and offers humans many health benefits, acting as an antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent; improving gut balance; and supporting cardiovascular and immune health.
Research published last year in Nutrition Reviews indicates that consumption of garlic significantly improves key cardiovascular risk markers, including cholesterol and blood sugar levels, blood pressure, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers. In a 2022 article, the Cleveland Clinic suggests that red blood cells respond to the sulfur in garlic by creating nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide gases, which relax and expand blood vessels. A 2019 meta-analysis of clinical trials published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine concludes that supplementation with an aged garlic extract offers similar results to blood pressure-lowering medications. While more research is needed to understand the full-spectrum potential of this kitchen staple, regularly spicing up meals with a clove or two can foster better health.
Maximizing Benefits and Flavor
Mincing, grating or pressing garlic intensifies its pungency, waking up ordinary steamed vegetables when tossed with olive oil or spicing up homemade hummus. Whether regular grocery store-bought, traditional heirloom or locally grown, garlic offers benefits, but following a few easy tips ensures that its nutritious perks remain intact.
According to Natalie Ledesma, a board-certified oncology dietitian and the founder of Natalie Ledesma Integrative & Functional Nutrition Consulting, in San Francisco, it is best to allow chopped or crushed garlic to sit for about 10 minutes before consuming it, cooking with it or adding it to vinaigrettes or other salad dressings. This waiting period maximizes the formation of allicin. Notably, the acidic nature of vinegar or lemon juice compromises allicin’s stability.
“If you compare raw garlic to garlic that has been cooked by various methods, you can see dramatic drops in allicin, one of the purported active ingredients,” advises Dr. Michael Greger, founding member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and author of several
national bestsellers, including How Not to Die, The How Not to Die Cookbook and How Not to Age
If garlic must be cooked, he suggests roasting to retain vital qualities that are quickly lost through simmering, high-heat stir-frying and boiling. “It is simple to prepare and can be used to add flavor to almost any dish,” he explains. “After roasting the garlic, you can also puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth, then portion and freeze it for future use.” A head of roasted garlic yields about one-and-a-half to two tablespoons of a delicious paste, which can be slathered on warm bread or sandwiches, whipped into zesty dips, and stirred into creamy mashed potatoes or a bowl of pasta.
“There are other beneficial compounds in garlic that are not deactivated by heat. They include ajoene, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide and S-allyl cysteine, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting benefits,” advises Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a board-certified family physician, president of the Nutritional Research Foundation and author of several bestsellers, including his Eat to Live Cookbook.
Hacks for Sensitive Bellies and General Tips
Garlic should be avoided by anyone on pharmaceutical or herbal blood thinners. For those that experience stomach or intestinal upset, Ledesma suggests removing the green sprout inside the garlic clove, a prime culprit for indigestion, or eating only the garlic scapes (the curly green flower stalks that grow on the garlic plant), which are generally well-tolerated.
For less discomfort and added convenience, Fuhrman endorses dehydrated raw garlic granules, noting that they will soften, expand and partially cook when sprinkled over veggies as they are steamed in a pot, enhancing its digestibility.
When purchasing garlic, choose intact heads that are firm to the touch, have plump cloves and do not have a strong odor of garlic— an indication of damage and loss of vital benefits. After chopping or peeling, rubbing cutting boards and hands with fresh lemon juice will remove the pungent garlic aroma.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWood Smoke.com
ROASTED GARLIC
YIELD: 1½ TO 2 TBSP OF GARLIC PASTE
1 whole head of garlic or more
Preheat the oven to 400° F.
Use a sharp knife to cut about ⅓ inch off the top of the whole head of garlic to expose the tops of the garlic cloves. Place the bulb inside a terracotta garlic baker or wrap it securely in parchment paper.
Bake in the oven, cut side up, for 30 to 40 minutes or until the garlic cloves are soft. Remove from the oven and open the garlic baker or parchment paper to let the garlic cool.
Remove one garlic clove and squeeze it over a small bowl, allowing the soft, roasted garlic to slip out of the papery skin. If it is not soft and golden brown, return the rest of the bulb to the garlic baker or rewrap it in parchment paper and bake for a few more minutes.
When the garlic is soft inside and cool enough to handle, squeeze out each roasted garlic clove into the bowl. It is now ready to enjoy. To give it a uniform texture, mash it with a fork or puree it in a food processor.
Tip: Roasted garlic can be stored in the refrigerator in a jar or other container with a tight-fitting lid for up to 5 days or portioned and frozen for up to a month.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Michael Greger.
Photosiber
CREAMY TOFU BASIL SAUCE
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS, ½ CUP EACH
1 12.3-oz package of silken
tofu
½ cup water
¾ cup fresh basil, chopped
4 Tbsp nutritional yeast
3 Tbsp gluten-free tamari
1 Tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced ¾ tsp black pepper
Blend all ingredients together in a blender or food processor. Serve over pasta, vegetables or a baked potato.
Recipe courtesy of Natalie Ledesma.
ZINGY BALSAMIC-LIME VINAIGRETTE
YIELD: 1¼ CUPS FOR APPROXIMATELY 8 SERVINGS
½ cup balsamic vinegar
Juice of 1 freshly squeezed
lime
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp maple syrup or honey
BLACK BEAN STEW WITH PURPLE SWEET POTATOES
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
Mango adds color and a touch of sweetness to this luscious stew. Make it as spicy as desired, adding more or less jalapeño to taste. If purple sweet potatoes are unavailable, any sweet potato varietal will do. Substitute thawed, frozen mango for fresh if the fruit is not in season.
1 large red onion, chopped
2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
2 large purple sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded and diced
1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
2 cups vegetable broth or water
2 tsp white miso paste
1 fresh garlic clove, minced or grated
½ tsp sea salt or smoked salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black or white peppercorns
Combine all ingredients and hand-whisk until well blended. Drizzle vinaigrette over green salads, potato salad, cold green beans, or grilled tofu or shrimp. Store remainder in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
¼ cup hot water
3 cups salt-free black beans, home-cooked or from BPA-free cans, drained and rinsed
1 14.5-oz BPA-free can of salt-free, diced tomatoes, undrained
1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted and diced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of water over medium heat. Add the red onion, then cover and cook until softened, stirring occasionally, about 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook another 2 minutes. Add a little more water, if needed, to prevent the onion and garlic from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Add the sweet potato, bell pepper, jalapeño (if using) and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender but still firm, about 25 minutes.
Blend together the white miso paste and ¼ cup of hot water.
Stir in the beans, tomatoes in their juice and miso mixture, then simmer gently, uncovered, until heated through, about 5 minutes. Add the mango and cook for 1 more minute, then stir in the cilantro and serve hot.
Recipe courtesy of Dr. Michael Greger.
Foot Fitness for Longevity
The Path to Better Balance and Blood Flow
by Maya Whitman
Often overlooked in fitness routines, the feet and ankles are essential to whole-body function, especially as we age. They support balance, proper posture, mobility and even circulatory and lymphatic flow. “The venous system does not have any capability to pump blood from the lower extremities to the heart and relies on our movements to assist the return of blood,” explains Kim Henderson, a chiropractic physician and the founder of Health Clarified, in Northbrook, Illinois. When we walk or exercise, our leg muscles—especially in the calves—contract and compress the deep veins, acting like a pump to force blood upward.
For older adults, runners or anyone focused on holistic health, strengthening and mobilizing the toes, feet and ankles can enhance cardiovascular support, reduce fall risk and restore lower body mechanics. Every year, more than 2 million people suffer from plantar fasciitis-related heel pain, one in four adults over 65 experience falls, and more than 2 million visit emergency rooms for sprained ankles. Simple, consistent exercises can enhance quality of life and prevent injuries at any age. Strong calves, flexible ankles and healthy fascia (connective tissue) make every step more stable.
Causes of Foot Instability
Overpronation is when the foot rolls excessively inward while walking or running, causing the arch to flatten and the ankle to angle inward, leading to potential pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips,
back and beyond. “We have seen chronic neck and shoulder pain be reduced, even eliminated, by supporting the arch,” notes Henderson, whose patients complete a series of exercises to strengthen the affected muscles.
According to Chicago-based fitness expert Stephanie Mansour, host of the PBS show Step It Up With Steph and a fitness contributor to The Today Show, foot instability and discomfort can have multiple causes, such as wearing ill-fitting shoes, overdoing activities without proper warm-up, ignoring pain, excessive barefoot walking, being overweight and medical conditions like diabetes. Listening to the body, rather than pushing through pain, and promptly addressing minor discomforts are paramount.
“Independence depends on functioning feet. That limp will lead to imbalances up into the knees, hips, spine and even shoulders,” underscores orthopedic and corrective exercise specialist Matt Hsu, founder of Upright Health, in California. The most common issue, he says, is a lack of dorsiflexion—the ability to pull the toes and forefoot toward the knee. “This throws off our gait and sets us up for Achilles tendon injuries, especially.” Hsu adds that bunions can also affect our ease of movement and suggests wearing shoes with wider toe boxes to prevent the condition.
Essential Exercises
To cultivate good balance, the National Institute on Aging recommends engaging in three sessions of balance exercises per week, including tai chi, yoga or standing on one foot for five to 10 repetitions per leg, holding each for 10 to 30 seconds. To loosen the arch and increase range of motion, the American Association of Retired Persons suggests rolling a small ball for one minute under each foot daily.
“Regular exercise can improve circulation, reduce stiffness and enhance proprioception, which is your body’s awareness of its position in space. This contributes to better overall mobility,” says Mansour, who recommends that the following four exercises be done three or
four times a week. Aim for two to three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions for each foot.
Calf Raises: Using a wall or chair for support, slowly rise onto the balls of the feet, lifting the heels off the ground. Hold for a moment, then slowly lower back down. This strengthens calf muscles and the Achilles tendon.
Toe Curls With a Towel: Sit in a chair and place a flat towel under the feet. Keeping heels on the floor, curl the toes to grab the towel and raise it toward the body. Relax and repeat. This strengthens feet muscles and helps with arch support.
Ankle Circles: In a seated position, move each foot in circles, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. This improves flexibility, balance and range of motion, while also preventing stiffness and injury.
Toe Spread: While sitting or standing, try to spread all the toes apart as wide as possible. Hold for a few seconds, then relax and repeat. This creates a wider base for better balance during movement, strengthens foot muscles and combats bunions, hammertoes and plantar fasciitis.
Henderson recommends Heel Raises on Stairs: Stand on a step with both heels
hanging over the edge. Slowly lift the heels, keeping the legs straight, while standing on the balls of the feet. Now lower the heels down past the level of the step as far as comfortable before repeating the upward movement again. Aim for two sets of 15 to 20 repetitions, four to five times per week.
Hsu suggests incorporating Tibial Raises: Lean back against a wall with feet 12 to 20 inches apart. Keeping heels down, gently lift the toes toward the shins, then lower them slowly. Repeat until reaching medium fatigue in the shin muscles. Do two sets. This strengthens shins and improves balance, knee support and ankle stability.
Before starting any routine, consult a health professional. Strive for consistency over intensity. Exercise should be a challenge, not cause pain.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings
kali9 from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
Gentle Relief for Growing Pains
Natural Strategies To Ease Body Aches in Children
by Christina Connors
After a day of fun at the park or swimming at a neighbor’s house, children may complain of a little soreness, primarily in the legs. By morning, the discomfort will have disappeared, and the kids will resume their active lifestyles. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as growing pains, although there is limited evidence to suggest a direct correlation with bone growth. The aches are most likely a result of muscle fatigue.
Growing pains are a common occurrence, although their exact cause remains elusive. According to Nina Gold, a board-certified pediatrician at the Paterson Community Health Center, in New Jersey, with 25 years of experience in pediatric emergency care, “The definition, diagnosis and cause of growing pains remains unclear. Despite the name, there may not even be any connection to growing. Most agree it consists of episodic pain, usually in the lower extremities, mostly in the evening or nighttime.”
Typically characterized as aching, cramping or throbbing sensations, they often strike at night or after an active day, leading some researchers to surmise that the pain stems from tired or overworked muscles. A 2025 study published in Nutrients involving 916 young athletes found that 78.5 percent of the children (ages 8 to 12) and 93.5 percent of the adolescents (ages 13 to 17) self-reported growing pains. The researchers noted that this musculoskeletal pain was notably higher among kids engaged in regular
sports practice, as only 11 to 15 percent of children and 33 to 44 percent of adolescents in the general pediatric population self-report pain.
Numerous studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to growing pains in children, and supplementation has been shown to reduce it. A 2015 study published in Medical Principles and Practice involving 120 children with growing pains reported that 86.6 percent were deficient in vitamin D, and oral
supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in pain intensity.
Common growing pains usually involve both legs, occur at night and do not cause redness, swelling or daytime limitations. “Parents should be concerned if there is pain on only one side, morning stiffness, joint swelling, redness, persistent or severe pain, or other symptoms such as fever, weight loss or malaise,” cautions Gold. “Children with typical growing pains
remain active during the day, so a sudden decrease in daytime activity also warrants evaluation.”
Once more serious conditions are ruled out, gentle, home-based strategies can effectively alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation. “Reassurance can go a long way for parents and then, by extension, the child,” Gold says. “Knowing that this is benign and self-limiting, and knowing what to watch for should take the worry out of it.”
Strategies To Soothe and Support
Gentle Massage and Warmth: Light massage to the calves, thighs or feet helps reduce muscle tension and calm the nervous system. A warm bath can also provide soothing relief.
Stretching and Gentle Movement: Stretching exercises maintain flexibility and may reduce nighttime cramping. Gold recommends stretching the calf by flexing the foot, stretching the thigh by flexing the knee and stretching the hamstring by extending the leg. Short evening walks or gentle bedtime stretches can help kids unwind after busy days.
Balanced Nutrition and Hydration: “Eating a well-rounded diet is always ideal and should be encouraged to facilitate good muscle, bone and joint health,” says Gold. Check vitamin D levels and then supplement if a deficiency is found. Magnesium-rich foods like bananas, green vegetables and nuts may help with muscle relaxation. Gold recommends a multivitamin and stresses the importance of proper hydration. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends four cups of fluids daily for 1-to-3-year-olds, five cups for 4-to-8-year-olds and seven to eight cups for older children. Plain water is the best choice.
Mind-Body and Sensory Techniques: Simple relaxation strategies can reduce nighttime discomfort. “During the day, kids tend to be busy, and then at night there is more focus on the pain,” explains
Gold. “Sometimes children like a different sensation, such as gentle tickling of the extremity followed by a light massage and warm compress, to replace the pain sensation with a more pleasant feeling.” Breathing exercises, guided imagery or calming bedtime routines can also ease stress around recurring discomfort.
Occasional Medication: Growing pains are noninflammatory and self-limiting, so medication is not usually necessary. Still, Gold reassures parents that an occasional dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief is also an option.
Prevention Strategies: For active kids, “Taking rest breaks during an intense exercise day and participating in a variety of sports or activities so that several muscle groups are used might help prevent or lessen the pain,” says Gold.
A Gentle Journey Through the Growing Years
Growing pains can be frustrating, especially when they interrupt sleep or cause worry. Most children outgrow them by late childhood. With gentle, supportive strategies families can help children move through these phases more comfortably.
Christina Connors is a writer, keynote singer and workshop facilitator. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com
Comfort in Motion
Holistic Joint Support for Dogs and Cats
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
As dogs and cats age, their joints can gradually degenerate, causing stiffness and pain. Instead of vocalizing their discomfort, animals tend to alter their movement patterns and behaviors. Signs may include hesitation on stairs, stiffness after rest, or reluctance to jump or remain active. While conventional medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly prescribed, they are not the sole best, long-term solution. Natural and integrative therapies can complement standard veterinary care, assisting pets in maintaining comfort and mobility in everyday life.
Effects of Osteoarthritis
The most common cause of joint stiffness in older pets is osteoarthritis, a form of cartilage degeneration that can arise from aging, past injuries, excessive body weight, prolonged overuse or poor joint structure, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, where the joint surfaces do not fit properly. As the cartilage thins, the joint becomes inflamed and painful, leading to decreased movement, muscle loss and further stiffness.
In the 2017 review article “Physical Rehabilitation for the Management of Canine Hip Dysplasia” published in Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice, orthopedic surgeon David Dycus and colleagues highlight the significant impact of osteoarthritis on mobility, particularly in large-breed dogs. They stress the importance of using appropriate support strategies
to preserve comfort and mobility. A comprehensive treatment plan may combine medication, weight management, supervised exercise, rehabilitation and complementary therapies such as ice and heat application, massage, acupuncture and other physical modalities.
Integrative Therapies
These restorative therapies work best when veterinarians coordinate their administration within a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan.
Acupuncture has been shown to help alleviate pain and inflammation in pets affected by chronic or mobility-related conditions. This traditional Eastern medicine practice involves inserting needles into specific acupoints to influence nerve pathways, circulation and pain processing. A 2017 prospective study published in The Canadian Veterinary Journal examined 181 dogs with neurological or musculoskeletal disease. Dogs receiving acupuncture exhibited a reduction in chronic pain. A 2023 meta-analysis of 21 animal studies in Frontiers revealed that acupuncture treatment for arthritis increased tolerance to pain and reduced joint swelling.
Underwater treadmill therapy is especially useful for dogs with hip dysplasia. The buoyancy provided by the water supports much of the dog’s weight, resulting in less painful movement, while simultaneously strengthening muscles. Dycus notes that when the water is elevated to hip level, dogs can bear approximately 38 percent of their body weight on their limbs, enabling them to engage in range of motion and endurance exercises without straining their affected joints.
Massage therapy was found to be effective in lowering pain scores and boosting the frequency of positive quality-of-life ratings in 527 dogs with chronic pain, according to a 2021 cross-sectional study published in Veterinary Record
VYCHEGZHANINA from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Therapeutic, or cold, laser therapy uses specific light wavelengths to reduce pain, support tissue repair and minimize inflammation. Clinicians apply the laser to designated regions during brief, generally well-tolerated sessions. Over a series of treatments, some pets exhibit a smoother gait and greater willingness to move. Owners see these effects most frequently when they simultaneously optimize weight management, environmental conditions and daily activity levels.
Nutrition and Supplementation
“Keeping joints healthy involves making sure we are providing the causes of health in the foods and treats we feed each patient,” says Dr. Barbara Royal, founder of The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center, in Chicago. She advocates for species-appropriate, nutrient-dense diets made from well-sourced ingredients, while limiting excessive carbohydrate consumption, highly processed additives and environmental exposures that can promote inflammation and compromise joint function. She also emphasizes an individualized approach to joint supplementation, recognizing that no single product meets the needs of every pet.
Royal supports targeted combinations of nutrients that include omega-3 fatty acids from small fish sources like sardines or anchovies to help modulate inflammation, along with turmeric for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. A 2025 review article, “Nutritional Strategies for Managing Joint Health in Companion Animals”, published in Animal Advances, supports this strategy, highlighting omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant-rich compounds like curcumin in modulating inflammation and slowing joint disease progression.
Additionally, Royal incorporates cartilage-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and botanicals like boswellia to promote joint comfort and alleviate the effects of osteoarthritis. Given the influence of gut health on systemic inflammation, Royal frequently recommends probiotics and, in select cases, periodic vitamin B12 supplementation to maintain nerve, gut and joint function as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com
Calendar of Events
Mondays, February 2–23
Reclaiming Your Body Through Yoga – 6-7pm. A live, online, trauma-sensitive movement series for women seeking reconnection of mind and body. Explore accessible movement and steady breath practices that support rebuilding inner trust, noticing patterns and cultivating grounded presence. $52. Virtual Event. 414-559-3852. Yoga4AllWI.com
Friday, February 6
Gallop Into 2026: Intention Candle Workshop – 5:30-7:30pm. Step into the Year of the Horse with a guided intention-setting candle workshop hosted by Meraki Workshops. Learn about the energetic themes of 2026, select intentional colors, create a layered candle and decorate with words and symbols that represent your goals for the year ahead. $50. Ambitious Vibes Candle Co., 2210 Rapids Dr., Racine. MerakiWorkshops.com/courses
Saturday, February 7
Aromatherapy Bliss Flow – 10:30-11:45am. A Heart-Opening Experience with Essential Oils: a warm, uplifting 75-minute yoga class featuring mindful movement, breathwork and heart-opening postures. Includes a small essential-oil gift. All levels welcome. $25. Yoga 4 All WI, 208 E Oak Crest Dr, Wales. 414-559-3852. Yoga4AllWI.com.
Sweet Dreams: Yoga Nidra Workshop –6-7:30pm. Learn practical sleep hygiene essentials, gentle yoga routines to prepare the body for rest, and experience a guided Yoga Nidra meditation. $45. Aligned Wellness Collective, 5942 6th St., Kenosha. MerakiWorkshops.com/courses
Sunday, February 8
Awaken Your Intuition! – 9am-1pm. Discover how to access your intuitive gifts and connect with spiritual guidance in this experiential workshop. Learn to identify your primary intuitive channel, open your third eye and ear chakras, and sense energy fields and auras. Includes guided meditations and connection with your spirit guide or angel. Golden Light Healing Retreat Center, 7102 Sundew Rd., Sobieski. $111. 920-609-8277.
Saturday, February 14
Spirit Fair: 11am-4pm Valentine’s Day Special! All readings today from 11 to 12 are only $45 for 20 minutes, in the Party Room. We have a variety of gifted readers ready to help illuminate your path towards enlightenment. Visit Spiritualenlightenment.me for the list of readers for today. Nico’s Pizzeria, Pub & Grill 9638 W. National Ave, West Allis.
Friday, February 20
Yoga and Acupuncture Workshop –6–8pm. A gentle, restorative yoga practice combined with a mini acupuncture session designed to support deep relaxation and nervous system balance. Led by Beth Major, with acupuncture by David Fife. No prior yoga or acupuncture experience required; mats and props provided. $35. Yoga 4 All WI, 208 East Oak Crest Dr., Wales. 414-559-3852.
Thursday, March 5
Plant Power Cooking Class – 9:30am or 12pm. Naturopathic doctor Sarah Axtell leads an intimate, hands-on cooking workshop focused on incorporating more fiber-rich, plant-forward foods for optimal health. Covers meal prep, grocery shopping and cooking techniques. Includes guidebook and recipes. Limited to eight participants. $130. Call 414-939-8748 to register. Lakeside Natural Medicine, 3510 N. Oakland Ave., Ste. 203, Shorewood. LakesideNaturalMedicine.com
March 13–Nov 20
Develop Intuition: A Grounded Foundation – 9–11am. A 9-month online class designed to help you ground and balance energy, strengthen energetic boundaries and connect with inner guidance. Explore intuitive development, Clair Senses, emotional clarity, and tools for manifesting a purposeful life in a supportive, structured environment. Ideal for caregivers, sensitives, and anyone seeking deeper self-connection. $1,620. Virtual event. MichelleSeets.com
Friday–Sunday, April 10–12
Ancient Irish Celtic Shamanism – 9:30am5:30pm. Explore the ancient Irish Shamanic tradition in this 3-day immersive workshop with Irish teacher and author Amantha Murphy. Learn about journeying, ancestral healing, the Wheel of the Sun and more through drumming, sound and movement. $650, includes lunch. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
Saturday, April 11
Space Clearing for Grief & Loss – 9am–12pm. A gentle online class focused on clearing and rebalancing the energy of your home or workspace after grief or loss. Learn practical, grounded tools to release heavy or stagnant energy and invite in a more peaceful, supportive environment with clear intention and emotional steadiness. $50 per person. MichelleSeets.com
Saturday–Sunday, April 25-26
Wellness, Body, Mind & Spirit Expo –10am-5pm. Celebrate wellness at this dynamic event featuring the latest in alternative and holistic health. Discover doctors, providers, coaches, psychics, astrologers, artists and more. Booths available! Holiday Inn River Front Milwaukee, 4700 N. Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee. WellnessBodyMindSpirit.com
Thursday–Sunday, May 28–31
Peruvian Shamanism Training – 1:30pm Thu–1pm Sun. Begin a 4-part immersive training in Peruvian Shamanism with native teacher Jose Luis Herrera. Develop a mesa—your personal medicine bundle and map of healing. Requires full commitment to all four sessions: May 28–31, July 23–26, Sept 10–13, Nov 12–15. $799 per session, includes meals. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
Saturday, June 13
Dare to Be Aware Fair – 10am-5pm. Explore the Midwest’s largest holistic and alternative wellness fair featuring over 100 exhibits. Connect with a vibrant community dedicated to growth, vitality, and well-being. Brookfield Conference Center, 325 S. Moorland Rd, Brookfield. DareToBeAwareFair.com
Thursday–Sunday, October 15-18
Whispers on the Wind Shamanic Program – Jan. 1-4. Begin a year-long intensive in shamanism, energy medicine, and self-transformation with Amy Wilinski. Attend all four sessions, of four days each, to explore energy healing techniques, ancestral clearing, power animal and soul retrieval and nature connection. $750/session includes meals. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-609-8277. GoldenLightHealing.net
Saturday: Energy Flow Yoga – 9am Yoga 4 All is a welcoming studio that can help you connect with your body, mind and spirit. See website for full class schedule and all purchase options. 6-Class Pass for $69 208 East Oak Crest Dr, Wales 414-559-3852
Friday
First Friday Free! 7am-8pm
First Fridays of the month. Join us for a day full of movement: integrative dance, tai chi and yoga classes. FREE.
Open Door Wellness
9205 W. Center St, #202, Milwaukee Call 414-563-7341 to register
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NaturalMKE.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
PLUMERIA ACUPUNCTURE AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER, LLC 2500 N Mayfair Rd, Ste 410, Wauwatosa 414-687-0087
Dr. Mizuno, DAOM, L.Ac, has a passion for helping clients regain their beautiful and happy smiles while transforming to a healthier version of themselves. She doesn’t treat symptoms, she treats patients. See ad on page 7.
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Are you passionate about wellness? Trying to reach more clients you can help? Natural Awakenings is our community’s #1 multimedia resource for natural, holistic health and eco-friendly living. Reaching over 40,000 loyal print and digital readers each month. Call or text 262-623-7948 to learn more or book your 10-minute discovery call today.
Karina Ramsey is a multi-passionate individual who teaches astrology, yoga, practices reiki, herbalism and tarot. Her offerings are a blend of different disciplines with the aim to provide tools that enhance your spiritual well-being and promote self-discovery.
Offering ayurveda and yoga classes including Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, all with an Ayurvedic influence. Moonflower also offers one-on-one yoga, Ayurvedic Health Counseling and private group yoga in studio and off site. See ad on page 27.
Body Contouring
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
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Chiropractic
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com
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Dr. Ann’s specialty is helping clients redirect their life compass, guiding them to newfound purpose. Reach new possibilities with The Brain Activation Method program and ZeronaZ6 Laser for Fat Loss. See ad on page 12.
PRECISION HEALING AND WELLNESS
17040 W Greenfield Ave, Ste. 6, Brookfield 262-439-8019 | PrecisionHealing.org Massage, Acupuncture, Chiropractic Therapy and beyond. Our peaceful and pristine Brookfield wellness clinic is your true refuge from pain, anxiety, stress, and discomfort. Accepting insurance. Call today to book your intro consult. See ad on page 2.
Ready to unlock your full potential? Partner with Taylor Chudy on your powerful journey toward confidence, self-acceptance, and true self-understanding. Her coaching platform is a safe, judgment-free zone to speak freely, explore and discover what’s been holding you back. Break through barriers and launch toward your goals with clarity and purpose! Call or email now to book your FREE discovery call and start your transformation! See ad on page 10.
Coaching, Trauma Healing
CELESTIAL COACHING & BODYWORK
Erica Hodgson, LMT
675 N. Brookfield Rd. Ste. 101, Brookfield 262-227-6548 | EricaHodgson.com
Offering transformational, orthopedic and deep relaxation massage, intuitive bodywork, reiki & transformational coaching. She listens to your body to help get to the root cause of your pain with a very body, mind, spirit approach.
Natural Escape elevates wellness through a holistic approach, integrating colon hydrotherapy, advanced massage techniques, health coaching, red light therapy and infrared sauna. Our holistic coaching empowers clients to detox, heal and thrive, addressing stress at its root.
VIVA WELLNESS
12625 W Burleigh Rd, Brookfield 262-777-8482 (VIVA) VivaWellnessWI.com
Boutique Medical Weight Loss blended with holistic wellness treatments to help you become your best.
Crystals
ANGELIC ROOTS CRYSTALS, WELLNESS CENTER & APOTHECARY
8612 & 8659 S Market Place, Oak Creek 414-304-5184 | AngelicRoots.com
Angelic Roots offers two retail spaces & a wellness center featuring crystals, jewelry, metaphysical tools, sound healing instruments, apothecary, and gifts. Wellness services including Reiki, Sound Baths, classes, workshops, and more!
REMEDY WITHIN MASSAGE
THERAPY & SPIRITUAL GIFTS
13425 Watertown Plank Rd, Elm Grove 262-307-8892 | RemedyWithin.com
We provide a diverse assortment of crystals, minerals and stones. Locally made jewelry, spiritual items, sage, candles, cleansing sprays, CBD and essential oils are available along with intuitive readings, crystal healing and massage therapy.
Dentistry
BIONICA DENTAL WELLNESS
2574 Sun Valley Dr, Ste 100, Delafield 262-337-9745 | BionicaDentalWellness.com
Come experience modern, comprehensive, biological dentistry for the health-conscious community. Dr. Udoka Holinbeck’s holistic approach will give you confidence in your smile and your health. See ad on page 5.
HOLISTIC DENTISTRY OF PORT
WASHINGTON
222 N Franklin St, Port Washington 262-235-4525 HolisticDentistryWI.com
Accepting new patients! Dr. Jana Ledic has been practicing dentistry since 2011 and believes in helping patients in the most natural way possible. See ad on page 15.
INTEGRATIVE DENTAL SOLUTIONS
23770 Capitol Dr, Pewaukee
262-691-4555 | WINaturalDentist.com
“…Because a healthy Body, starts with a healthy Mouth.” Our office specializes in treating the cause of the problem and not just the symptoms; we offer the latest advances in dentistry. See ad on back cover.
Education
CONCORDIA
UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN
School of Pharmacy CUW.edu/NPS
Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference! Discover Your Future in Natural Product Sciences with our flexible graduate programs. Choose from a 30-credit online Master’s degree or a 12-credit graduate certificate, both designed to fit your life and goals. Specialize in medical cannabis or nutraceuticals, and prepare for exciting roles in health care, pharmacy, research and development, manufacturing, business and beyond. See ad on page 14.
Energy Enhancement System
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-ofthe-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ads on pages 7 and 18.
Energy Healing
SOLANA SOUL
Sara Joy
200 W Summit Ave, Ste 210, Wales Sara@SolanaSoul.com SolanaSoul.com
Fitness
Lake Country’s premier wellness spot offering energy work, intuitive guidance, sound healing and grief support by internationally recognized intuitive Sara Joy.
MIDWEST SHORIN-RYU HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Morganne MacDonald and Vince Milewski
9130 W Loomis Rd, Ste. 750, Franklin 414-235-3788 | MidwestShorinRyu.com
Martial arts and wellness center offering karate, kobudo, yoga, and self-defense. Coming soon, tai chi, qigong, Pilates and holistic fitness programs. See ad on page 27.
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202
414-563-7341
OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 29.
Food/Restaurant
TO YOUR HEALTH JUICERY
920-655-5842
ToYourHealthJuicery@gmail.com
ToYourHealthJuicery.com
Mother-daughter-owned organic cold-pressed juice company offering graband-go bottles, juice packs, and cleanses. Available at the Mequon Public Market and farmers markets, pickup, delivery and shipping.
Holistic Health
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-of-the-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ads on pages 7 and 18.
PRECISION HEALING AND WELLNESS
17040 W Greenfield Ave, Ste. 6, Brookfield 262-439-8019
PrecisionHealing.org
Massage, Acupuncture, Chiropractic Therapy and beyond. Our peaceful and pristine Brookfield wellness clinic is your true refuge from pain, anxiety, stress and discomfort. Accepting insurance. Call today to book your intro consult. See ad on page 2.
Hypnotherapy
ORIGINS HYPNOTHERAPY
Linda Neeb, Certified Hypnotherapist
OriginsHypnotherapy@gmail.com
Release stress, blocks and distractions that stand in your way. Through the power of Hypnotic Suggestions, you can shift limiting beliefs, reprogram your mindset and create lasting changes in your behavior - allowing you to align with your goals and desires. Start with a half-hour complimentary call. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you to new beginnings.
Intuitive Coaching/ Development
MAR SEETS COACHING, LLC
Michelle Seets MASeetsCoaching@gmail.com
612-743-2592
MichelleSeets.com
Feeling lost or navigating grief? Gain clarity through Soul Readings and supportive classes focused on emotional growth, groun ding, healthy boundaries, intuitive development, and reconnecting with your inner guidance.
Landscape/Lawncare Service
BE GREEN PRO LLC
Patricia Beres Delafield, WI 262-361-4034
Hello@BeGreen.pro | BeGreen.pro Sustainable fall and winter yard services, snow and ice melt, and landscaping. Your trusted residential and commercial partner for over 30 years. Our expert horticulturalists and turf technicians provide nature-inspired, low-toxicity solutions for outdoor needs. From turf to trees, insect and pest control, to snow and ice management, our all-natural methods are safer for people, pets and the planet.
ECO HARMONY LANDSCAPE 414-810-5858
4225 N. 124th St., Brookfield Info@EcoHarmonyLandscaping.com Mike.EcoHarmony@gmail.com EcoHarmonyLandscaping.com
Ecologically minded, full-service landscape company servicing SE Wisconsin. Specializing in sustainable ideas and low-maintenance solutions. Professional craftsmanship inspired by nature. See ad on page 9.
Be
Martial Arts
MIDWEST SHORIN-RYU HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER
Morganne MacDonald and Vince Milewski
9130 W Loomis Rd, Ste. 750, Franklin 414-235-3788
MidwestShorinRyu.com
Martial arts and wellness center offering karate, kobudo, yoga, and self-defense. Coming soon: tai chi, qigong, Pilates and holistic fitness programs. See ad on page 27.
Massage Therapy
CELESTIAL COACHING & BODYWORK
Erica Hodgson, LMT
675 N. Brookfield Rd. Ste. 101, Brookfield 262-227-6548
EricaHodgson.com
Offering transformational, orthopedic and deep relaxation massage, intuitive bodywork, reiki & transformational coaching. She listens to your body to help get to the root cause of your pain with a very body, mind, spirit approach. Try our self-service options at the spa at 675!
FLORA & STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
Jessica Lueneburg
W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste C, Cedarburg
Jess.info@FloraStoneMT.com
FloraStoneMT.com
Creating a mind-body-soul connection for each individual through massage therapy services, restorative bodywork classes and 1:1 holistic nutrition coaching. In-person cupping, hot/cold stone, Thai massage, Yomassage and virtual nutrition services available.
Medical Care and Treatment
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC
NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
MilwaukeePainClinic.com 414-453-7780
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee
Pain relief … finally. Our approachable practitioners obtain exceptional results with a combination of standard therapies and alternative methods including affordable regenerative treatments, nerve resuscitation and non-surgical lumbar decompression. See ad on page 3.
Medicine - Integrative
ANTIDOTE HEALTH CO.
1421 W. Washington St., West Bend 262-421-5135
AntidoteHealthCo.com
Antidote Health Co offers Functional Medicine with Dr. Kelly Darmody, MD, and Primary Care services with Erica Reigle, NP. Both provide extended visits and personalized wellness.
MedicineNaturopathic
LAKESIDE NATURAL MEDICINE
Dr. Sarah Axtell, Dr. Joanne Aponte, Dr. Mackenzie Prentice, Dr. Katarina Meister and Dr. Erica Linn
3510 N Oakland Ave, Shorewood 414-939-8748
LakesideNaturalMedicine.com
Naturopathic doctors with a focus on autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, hormone imbalance, weight loss and hypothyroidism. See ad on page 10.
Mental Health
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202 414-563-7341
OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 29.
Myofascial Release
SPECIALIZED THERAPY SERVICES
890 Elm Grove Rd, Ste 1-1, Elm Grove 414-778-1341
SpecializedTherapyServices.com
Specialized Therapy Services began in 2002, providing comprehensive MFR treatment programs. Currently, it is the only private MFR clinic accepting multiple insurance plans including Medicare. See ad on page 38.
Natural Cleaning
ROXY’S NATURAL CLEANING, LLC
Roxanne Reichert 262-528-2762
RoxysNaturalCleaning@gmail.com
Roxy’s natural cleaning is committed to getting the job done without the use of harmful chemicals. Call/text/email today to schedule your walk through. See ad on page 31.
Neurology
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
MilwaukeePainClinic.com 414-453-7780
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee
Pain relief … finally. Our approachable practitioners obtain exceptional results with a combination of standard therapies and alternative methods including affordable regenerative treatments, nerve resuscitation and non-surgical lumbar decompression. See ad on page 3.
Creating a mind-body-soul connection for each individual through massage therapy services, restorative bodywork classes and 1:1 holistic nutrition coaching. In-person cupping, hot/cold stone, Thai massage, Yomassage and virtual nutrition services are available.
Pain Relief
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
MilwaukeePainClinic.com 414-453-7780
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee
Pain relief … finally. Our approachable practitioners obtain exceptional results with a combination of standard therapies and alternative methods including affordable regenerative treatments, nerve resuscitation and non-surgical lumbar decompression. See ad on page 3.
Psychics/Mediums
PSYCHIC IN THE DELLS 608-253-0022
PsychicInTheDells.com
HALF OFF with this ad
Are you seeking answers to life’s biggest questions? Trust your intuition and unlock your inner clarity from a gifted, accurate and compassionate psychic who can guide you through love, career and personal growth. Whether you’re at a crossroads or simply curious about what the future holds, a psychic reading offers the clarity you need.
Quantum Healing
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI
262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com DrAnnBell.com
Dr. Ann’s Quantum Field Light and Brain Activation Method combines light frequencies, gentle touch, and guided breath-work to help clients achieve empowerment, self-trust and body/ mind integration through physical and quantum healing. See ad on page 12.
Be
HEART SPEAK QUANTUM HEALING
Shera (Mary) Jordan
Shera@HeartSpeak.love HeartSpeak.love
Offering Metatronic Quantum Healing sessions that utilize advanced quantum healing tools and techniques, including a Quantum Metatronic Medbed. These sessions focus on deep soul-level healing to help individuals achieve joy, peace, and holistic health. See ad on page 9.
Real Estate
SHOREWEST REALTORS
Cierra Burmeister 262-607-0215
CBurmeister@Shorewest.com
Cierra.Shorewest.com
Buyer and seller consultations available. Trust and communication from our first meeting to closing. Clients can expect a relationship beyond the closing table to ensure their home needs are always met. See ad on page 36.
Reflexology
RENEWED YOU REFLEXOLOGY
414-852-7870
Renewed-You-Reflexology.square.site
Reiki
Stress Less! Reflexology applies direct stimulation to areas of your feet that reflect the organs of the body to help reduce stress and tension in the body. Call for an appointment.
HEART SPEAK QUANTUM HEALING
Shera (Mary Jordan)
Shera@HeartSpeak.love
HeartSpeak.love
Offering Metatronic Quantum Healing sessions that utilize advanced quantum healing tools and techniques, including a Quantum Metatronic Medbed. These sessions focus on deep soul-level healing to help individuals achieve joy, peace, and holistic health. See ad on page 9.
Offering workshops, sessions, group & personal retreats in shamanism, mediumship, reiki, psychic development and more. See ad on page 15.
Weight Loss
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson, WI 262-644-7050 | DrAnnBell.com
Shed stubborn fat and lose inches pain-free with Dr. Ann’s Zerona Z6 Laser, a non-invasive treatment that delivers noticeable results without discomfort or downtime. Call our office to schedule your complimentary consultation. See ad on page 12.
PRECISION HEALING AND WELLNESS
17040 W Greenfield Ave, Ste. 6, Brookfield 262-439-8019 | PrecisionHealing.org
Massage, Acupuncture, Chiropractic Therapy and beyond. Our peaceful and pristine Brookfield wellness clinic is your true refuge from pain, anxiety, stress, and discomfort. Accepting insurance. Call today to book your intro consult. See ad on page 2.
Wellness Center
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC
150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste. 148, Brookfield 262-395-4023
BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com
Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-of-the-art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root-cause issues. See ads on pages 7 and 18.
Wellness Events
THE 17TH DARE TO BE AWARE FAIR
Held at the Brookfield Conference Center 325 S. Moorland Rd. Brookfield DareToBeAwareFair.com
June 13, 2026
The Dare to be Aware Fair is an annual holistic wellness event that is dedicated to enhancing well-being, joy and vitality. The highly anticipated expo has evolved into the Midwest’s largest alternative wellness fair.
Wellness Marketing
NATURAL AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE
Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher 262-623-7948
Publisher@NaturalMKE.com NaturalMKE.com
Are you passionate about wellness? Trying to reach more clients you can help? Natural Awakenings is our community’s #1 multimedia resource for natural, holistic health and eco-friendly living. Reaching over 40,000 loyal print and digital readers each month. Call or text 262-623-7948 to learn more or book your 10-minute discovery call today.
Women’s Health
REVITALIZE PHYSICAL THERAPY
11951 W Janesville Rd, Ste. E, Hales Corners 414-331-2323
Contact@revitalize-pt.com Revitalize-PT.com
We are changing women’s healthcare at Revitalize through our integrative, proven, 3-step process to help busy women feel strong and confident with their active lifestyle through all stages of life. See ad on page 13.
Offering ayurveda and yoga classes including Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, all with an Ayurvedic influence. Moonflower also offers one-on-one yoga, Ayurvedic Health Counseling and private group yoga in studio and off site. See ad on page 27.
OPEN DOOR WELLNESS
9205 W Center St, Suites 201-202, Milwaukee 414-563-7341 | OpenDoorWellness.org
Affordable holistic psychotherapy, bodywork, movement and other classes offered in a peaceful welcoming space. Come as you are, share what you know, explore who you want to be, and build community. See ad on page 29.
YOGA 4 ALL WI
208 East Oak Crest Dr, Wales, WI 53183 414 559 3852 | Yoga4AllWI.com
Providing comprehensive Myofascial Release programs since 2002
Yoga 4 All is a welcoming studio catering to all levels. We are experienced teachers in a beautiful studio ready to help you connect with your body, mind and spirit.
The only private Myofascial Release clinic in SE Wisconsin that accepts multiple insurance plans, including Medicare Call now to begin YOUR healing journey! Specialized Therapy Services Dave Vollmers
Licensed Occupational Therapist 890 Elm Grove Rd, Ste 1-1 Elm Grove, WI 53122 414-778-1341 SpecializedTherapyServices.com Testimonials Available
Biological, Holistic Dental Care For Your Family in a Comfortable & Caring Setting
