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Paddles, Blueberries and Making Waves
A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I visited my family and decided to play pickleball with my parents. Now in their 60s, they absolutely dominate the court. While Matt and I prioritize healthy habits and consider ourselves to be in great shape, my parents still amazed me with their agility, energy and skill.
Watching them play was a wonderful reminder that healthy living can, and should, be enjoyable and sustainable throughout every stage of life.
Pickleball has been all the rage for several years now. In fact, we first featured the article “New Ways to Court Fitness: Racquets and Paddles Get a Sporting Makeover” back in 2017. In December 2022, we revisited the trend with “Pickleball is Booming,” highlighting the sport as a fun way to improve fitness, increase happiness and strengthen connections with family and friends.
This month, we return to the topic once again, inviting newcomers to discover why so many people have fallen in love with the game. On any given day, you might see children, teens, retirees and highly competitive athletes all playing the same game. Perhaps this is part of pickleball’s appeal—it seems to welcome just about everyone.
Beyond pickleball, this issue’s feature story celebrates other great ways to stay active and spend time outdoors. Read more in “Wellness Without Walls: Outdoor Connections for Body and Spirit” on page 12. Whether it’s hiking, paddling, biking, gardening or simply taking a walk in nature, the outdoors offers endless opportunities to support physical health, mental well-being and spiritual renewal.
We are also shining a spotlight on one of my favorite topics: food. Summer brings an abundance of colorful, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, making it one of the most delicious seasons of the year. Inside this issue, you’ll find ideas for vibrant summer salads where lettuce doesn’t take center stage, along with a fresh take on juicy blueberries and other brain-healthy foods.
And of course, we cannot forget our loved ones. In Wisconsin, lakes and pools are central to summer fun. In our Healthy Kids section, we explore teaching kids how to love and embrace the water, encouraging swimming safety, environmental stewardship and confidence in aquatic settings. Be sure to also check out our Natural Pet article, where we share holistic summer tips to help keep dogs happy, active and itch-free.
Whether you’ll dip a toe into the lake, the pool, a new sport or something else this summer, we hope you find time to move and nourish your body, connect with loved ones and enjoy the beauty of the season.
Goddess Wisdom Circle Explores Sacred Archetypes Through Mythology and Astrology
The Goddess Wisdom Circle will launch Sacred Archetypes: A Goddess Circle Series, a five-week journey designed to help participants reconnect with their inner wisdom and personal power, at 6 p.m. on July 1 at the Ambitious Vibes Candle Bar, in Racine. Sessions will continue on July 8, 15, 22 and 29.
Through mythology, psychology and astrology, attendees will explore a different Goddess archetype each week including Artemis, Athena, Hestia, Demeter and Hekate. The series includes journaling prompts, meaningful rituals and guided reflection to support personal growth and self-discovery. Participants will gain insights related to courage, nurturing, wisdom, balance and empowerment that can be applied to everyday life.
Those who register for the full five-week series will receive a personalized Goddess Archetypes Astrology PDF Report highlighting how these archetypes appear within their birth chart and influence their essence, shadow and gifts. Registration includes a beverage and light snacks at each session.
The series is hosted by Karina Ramsey, founder of Meraki Workshops, in Kenosha. She teaches and practices astrology, yoga, Reiki, herbalism and tarot. Her offerings are a blend of different disciplines to help others enhance spiritual well-being and promote self-discovery.
Cost is $40 per session or $175 for the complete series. Location: 232 Main St., Racine. Space is limited. For more information or to register, visit MerakiWorkshops.com/Courses/Goddess. See listing on page 35.
Gut Health in Early Life
A study in Nature Microbiology reports that transitioning babies from milk to solid food reprograms the gut’s immune defenses. Weaning introduces diverse microbes into the intestinal tract for the first time, triggering an intense but temporary inflammatory response. During this early phase, intestinal stem cells begin to differentiate between friendly and unfriendly microbes. As these stem cells divide and mature into the full-functioning cells of the intestinal lining, a genetic “memory” of how to respond to microbes develops. When the gut is exposed to threats or friendly microbes later in life, these primed cells recognize the signals and are able to launch a faster and more efficient immune response.
To better understand how this early phase in gut microbiology “trains” the immune system, the research team interrupted stem cell programming by administering low doses of penicillin to young mice, eliminating some beneficial bacteria. The interruption in programming turned out to be critical. As adults, these mice had weaker immune defenses and higher risks of colitis and colon cancer. The study highlights the importance of a diverse microbiome during infancy, suggesting that disruptions in early life—whether from antibiotic use or a poor diet—can permanently compromise the gut’s ability to ward off inflammatory disease in adulthood.
Jovana Stojanovic from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro
Air Pollution Threatens Childhood Health
The American Lung Association’s (ALA) 27th annual State of the Air report grades counties for unhealthy levels of ground-level ozone and particle pollution. It found that 33.5 million, or 46 percent, of children are exposed to unhealthy air pollution levels. Because their lungs are still developing, kids breathe more air relative to their size than adults. Long-term pollution exposure in youngsters can lead to reduced lung growth, asthma, respiratory diseases, impaired cognitive functioning, heart attacks and cancer.
While the U.S. had made progress in reducing air pollution, the ALA warns that these advances are threatened by extreme heat, wildfires and the rollback of air pollution standards by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Holistic Dental Health: A Foundation for Whole-Body Wellness
When is the last time you visited the dentist? Oral health is about far more than a bright smile. Growing research continues to demonstrate the connection between the mouth and the rest of the body, linking gum disease and oral inflammation to concerns such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive decline and immune dysfunction. This is why holistic dentists view the mouth as an integral part of overall health rather than an isolated system.
One of the most important steps people can take for long-term wellness is establishing care with a holistic dentist and maintaining regular checkups. Preventive visits can help identify concerns before they become larger and more costly problems while offering guidance that supports health throughout the body. Holistic dentists often consider factors such as nutrition, inflammation, toxic exposures, airway health and the relationship between oral conditions and systemic wellness.
Scheduling regular appointments with a holistic dentist every six months can help protect not only oral health, but also the health of the entire body. Oral wellness is preventive care, and preventive care remains one of the most effective investments we can make in our long-term vitality.
Now I see the secret of making the best person. It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth.
—Walt Whitman
GOLFX/shutterstock
Photo by Sarah Chai for pexels.com
Viroqua, Wisconsin:
Where Organic Living, Community and the Driftless Landscape Converge
Surrounded by the rolling hills and river valleys of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, the town of Viroqua has quietly become one of the Midwest’s most distinctive hubs for organic farming, sustainability and holistic living. With a population of just a few thousand residents, the community has attracted generations of farmers, entrepreneurs, artists and wellness-minded families seeking a deeper connection to the land and to one another.
For longtime resident Toby Grotz, this connection is exactly what drew him and his wife to the region more than a decade ago.
“We were looking for a safe place,” Grotz explains. “We wanted good soil and good rainfall.”
After traveling extensively throughout the United States and abroad, the couple ultimately chose Viroqua after discovering that the Driftless region contained one of the country’s densest concentrations of organic farms.
Located less than 20 miles from the Mississippi River and Minnesota border, two hours from Madison and three hours from Milwaukee, Viroqua also attracts a multitude of families and tourists year-round.
A Community Rooted in the Land
Unlike much of the Midwest, the Driftless Area escaped the flattening effects of ancient glaciers, leaving behind steep ridges, fertile valleys and winding waterways that shape daily life in the region. Residents often describe the landscape as both grounding and energizing.
“There’s a love of the outdoors here,” Grotz says. “People love to hike and camp and bicycle.”
That connection to the land has helped define Viroqua’s identity for decades. Beginning in the 1970s, waves of back-to-the-land families and organic farmers relocated to the area, many drawn by affordable farmland, fertile soil and a desire to live more sustainably. Over time, those movements evolved into thriving institutions that now anchor the local economy and culture.
Organic Valley
One of the region’s most influential success stories is Organic Valley, the farmer-owned cooperative headquartered nearby in La Farge. What began as a small network of organic farmers eventually grew into the world’s
largest organic farming cooperative.
“That became the centerpiece,” Grotz says of Organic Valley’s influence. “People realized that in order to make a living farming, if we did organic, we had a better product.”
Alternative Health, Agriculture and Education
Yet Viroqua’s identity stretches beyond organic food alone. Susan Noble, executive director of the Vernon Economic Development Association, believes the region’s openness to unconventional thinking is part of what makes the area thrive.
“There’s so much support for thinking different!” Noble says. “We do alternative agriculture, alternative education, alternative health, alternative energy. We think different.”
That mindset has fostered a culture where entrepreneurship, community and sustainability often go hand in hand.
Food as a Connector
In Viroqua, food is more than nourishment. It is culture, economy, identity and a gathering point. The town is home to the beloved Viroqua Food Co-op, which has become both grocery store and community hub for residents seeking local and organic foods.
Other poplar local destinations include Noble Rind Cheese Company, known for artisan cheeses and thoughtfully sourced foods, and Wonderstate Coffee. The cafe attracts locals and tourists, with not only great tasting coffee, but a commitment to sustainable efforts and ethical sourcing. And just a couple blocks off Main Street is Driftless Books & Music, an iconic independent bookstore housed in a sprawling, historic warehouse.
Nearby, the Food Enterprise Center, located in Viroqua and owned and managed by the Vernon Economic Development Association, houses dozens of food-focused businesses ranging from maple syrup producers to seed companies and artisan makers.
Grotz describes the transformation of the Food Enterprise Center as symbolic of the community itself. Once a former factory, the building was repurposed into a collaborative center for local food innovation and entrepreneurship.
“It now has more employees than when it was the factory,” he says.
The region’s natural beauty encourages outdoor recreation yearround, from hiking and camping to cycling through the steep Driftless hills that attract riders from around the world. Residents also point to a growing awareness among younger families around nutrition, local food systems and environmental stewardship.
“Young moms are more and more aware that they have to eat right during pregnancy, and they want their kids to have good food,” Grotz says.
At the same time, the community remains deeply aware of the environmental and agricultural challenges facing modern rural America. Conversations surrounding pesticides, industrial farming, groundwater quality and long-term sustainability are common throughout the region.
“Water capacity and conservation is a big concern here,” Noble says, noting the Driftless Area’s vulnerable karst topography and the region’s ongoing stewardship efforts.
She also worries about the long-term future of local agriculture if small farmers are not supported.
“Who’s going to grow our food if we don’t support our farmers?” Noble asks. “Where’s the land that’s going to grow the food?”
That concern has helped drive local efforts to strengthen food systems and create more profitable pathways for regional growers and producers.
Noble says supporting entrepreneurs remains essential to the future of communities like Viroqua. “The entrepreneurs are creating their own economic solutions. They’re creating the jobs that raise the tax base.”
She believes fostering local business creation is just as important as attracting outside development.
“When we say to high school kids, ‘What job do you want when you graduate?’ we should be saying to them, ‘What business do you want to start?’” Noble suggests.
Wellness Beyond the Conventional
Health and wellness also play an important role in the region’s culture. While Viroqua contains a diversity of perspectives and political viewpoints, many residents share a growing interest in organic food, alternative medicine and preventative wellness practices.
“I think the people that are into health here are exercising, taking advantage of the wonderful county parks we have,” Grotz says.
Be
The Spirit of Viroqua
Perhaps what makes Viroqua most unique is its blend of independence, resilience and idealism. Generational farmers live alongside artists, educators, herbalists and entrepreneurs, creating a culture that feels both deeply rooted and constantly evolving.
“You’ve got a 16-year-old girl driving a half-million-dollar tractor to school,” Grotz says with a laugh, describing the town’s annual ‘Drive Your Tractor to School Day.’”
That pioneer spirit still shapes life here, he says—not simply as nostalgia, but as a lived value centered around practical skills, self-reliance and community interdependence.
“We want people to come share what we have,” Grotz says. “We need the skills, the knowledge and the people.”
For many residents, Viroqua represents more than a place to live. It offers an alternative vision of what rural America can become when food, entrepreneurship, environmental stewardship and wellness are prioritized together.
And in a rapidly changing world, that vision continues to draw people searching for something increasingly rare: connection.
Wellness Without Walls
Outdoor Connections for Body and Spirit
by Marlaina Donato
Our daily lives can feel like a series of predictable routines often confined to the indoors, but a growing outdoor wellness movement is opening up new possibilities by weaving nature into holistic health practices and social gatherings. Whether paddleboarding along a tropical waterway, working out in the park or volunteering at a horse sanctuary, stepping outside brings a wealth of benefits.
The American Psychological Association suggests that spending at least two hours a week in nature can nourish our physical
and mental well-being, helping to reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline and high blood pressure. Plus, engaging in an outdoor activity imparts a natural boost of vitamin D and strengthens our immune system. Research gathered by Colorado State University Sustainability Leadership Fellow Kaiya Tamlyn indicates that spending time outside also encourages greater generosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
With so many activities available in both city and rural settings, it is easy to discover
something new while making social connections along the way. Finding balance in a busy world is essential, and combining outdoor time, mindfulness and fun can be incredibly beneficial. There are many options to explore, from meditative mountain retreats to beachside drumming circles under the stars or forest bathing in lush green spaces. In a world where 62 percent of adults admit to being constantly online, swapping screens for something more real can recharge our spirits.
Mindful Resets
When Jennifer Stas-Eliades took up yoga, she bloomed, and from that place of transformation, she felt called to help others do the same. In 2014, she founded Wildflower Yoga Collective, in Flemington, New Jersey. “Yoga is not about being flexible, experienced or a certain age,” she asserts. “It isn’t about doing a headstand or touching your toes. It’s about showing up for yourself, exactly as you are.”
In partnership with local businesses, Stas-Eliades pairs yoga classes with fun, social activities in interesting outdoors settings. Yoga at the Vineyard, for example, is held during sunset and includes a wine tasting. Yoga and Horseback Riding begins with a guided ride through breathtaking scenery, followed by stretches and yoga positions that help open the hips. Lavender Yoga takes place in the midst of a blooming field where students are encouraged to breathe in the calming lavender aroma. Afterward, they pick their own bouquet to take home.
“It’s the greatest kind of office—being outside, surrounded by it all. I always arrive early, giving myself time to take it in, decompress, root into the ground, pet the horses or walk through the lavender,” says Stas-Eliades. “People often come to yoga class carrying the weight of their day—work, school pickups, the constant motion. But then they step onto the grass, onto their mat; the sun hits their skin; the breeze moves around them; and something softens. You’re really rooting
Zoran Zeremski/AdobeStock
into the ground in a way that isn’t just metaphorical like it can be in the studio. You’re smelling the flowers and hearing everything around you.”
Exploring Waterways
Nicole Killian, owner of SUP Englewood at the Don Pedro Island State Park, in Cape Haze, Florida, provides groups the opportunity to enjoy nature on kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. “Once on the water, we guide participants through mangrove tunnels, coastal waterways or open areas, depending on conditions,” says the 20-year paddling pro. “Spotting wildlife is always a possibility, especially dolphins, manatees and birds. We offer a real immersive experience based on what the environment gives us that day.”
According to Killian, people that are new to the sport are often surprised at how manageable and enjoyable stand-up pad dleboarding and kayaking are. “We design our experiences to be beginner-friendly, so people leave with confidence,” she explains. “Families connect, kids get curious and there are also quiet moments on the water that allow people to slow down and really take in their surroundings. Those moments tend to have the biggest impact.”
Ultimately, the SUP Englewood team of cer tified instructors and Florida Master Nat uralists aims to inspire an understanding
and compassion for the marine ecosystem. “I find that in order for someone to want to conserve the waterways, they have to fall in love with them,” says Killian. “We create experiences that motivate people to want to protect the delicate balance of our marine habitats for generations to come.”
Dynamic Hiking
Former professional alpine skier Tina Vindum discovered her true passion when she hit a plateau with indoor training. Feeling bored with her usual routine, she decided
environment challenged my body in new ways and re-engaged my mind,” she recalls. “I quickly saw improvements in performance, along with unexpected benefits like greater focus, calm and a renewed sense of joy.”
Inspired by her experience, Vindum founded The Outdoor Fitness Institute, a science-based approach to exercise that leverages the natural environment. She uses elements like hills, trails, grass, trees, rocks, benches and open space to create more dynamic, functional movement. “Nature becomes your gym, and your body responds in ways machines simply can’t replicate,” she explains. “For most people, it can be as simple as walking or hiking on uneven ground, adding hill intervals or incorporating strength exercises like squats, lunges or push-ups in a park.”
Vindum believes that moving in open spaces helps people shift from feeling separate from nature to feeling part of it. “Nature brings me a sense of calm, clarity and perspective,” she says. “It reconnects me to something deeper—a feeling of freedom, joy and aliveness that goes beyond fitness. It’s also how I connect with others.”
Images of Sergey Domashenko/CanvaPro
significant uptick in prefrontal cortical activation with increasing terrain unevenness during walking. The positive effects of sunlight on mood and mental health have also been researched and confirmed by numerous studies.
Wild Wanderings
Since 1976, Lanny Kaufer has been a firsthand witness to the rejuvenating power of outdoor hikes and finding hidden gems in nature. His Herb Walks in Southern California invite participants to get active while learning about the healing world of edible and medicinal plants. A typical excursion can last two to three hours of easy walking that is accessible for most people.
“After acknowledging the local Indigenous people of whatever location we’re in and thanking the plants, we explore the trailside vegetation as we walk, stopping from time to time to point out what’s catching my attention, sharing stories about the plants and animals, responding to participants’ curiosity, discussing sustainable
foraging and learning to identify helpful plants,” he explains.
The author of Medicinal Herbs of California: A Field Guide to Common Healing Plants says that his journey began with a spiritual awakening in the mountains of the Los Padres National Forest outside his home in Ojai. “I felt the plants speak to me,” Kaufer remembers, and that is when he felt called to help protect not only plants but also the rest of nature for future generations.
Over time, he realized that people need to be inspired to protect nature, mostly by understanding why it matters. At nearly 80 years old, his passion is still as strong as it was in the 1970s. “Whether it’s a plant that can wash your hair, a seed that plants itself or a leaf that creates its own sunscreen, I am helping people find that value,” he says.
Seasonal Stewardship
Volunteering outdoors is a rewarding way to broaden our horizons. Whether we are helping with trail maintenance at a nature sanctuary or organizing campground activities, our efforts can make a positive impact. For five years, Stacy Turner has volunteered at the Winthrop National Fish Hatchery, in Washington state, greeting visitors, conducting hatchery tours and supporting events and field trips. Her enthusiasm for the hatchery’s mission is joyful and infectious, inspiring others to join the cause.
“I wanted people to not just look at fish but also learn about the hatchery and all that they do to bring back the success of fish that are native to our area,” she explains, adding that visitors of all ages have expressed interest in pursuing a similar path of stewardship. “In a world that is plugged into the internet, it is always hard to remember that you can get way more out of life by stepping outside and exploring what is in your own backyard, and you are never too old to enjoy life.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Summer in Every Bite
Vibrant, Versatile Salads
by Maya Whitman
Whether we picnic in the park, meet friends for a hike or attend a community event, staying hydrated is crucial while enjoying the outdoors. Besides refilling water bottles, creating a vibrant, hydrating salad—like sweet melon, fiery radishes and arugula with a basil-lime vinaigrette—is a delightful way to enjoy the summer. Seasonal ingredients such as refreshing cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, leafy greens and blushing fruits have a high-water content, along with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that boost energy and overall well-being.
Beyond the usual lettuce bowl, summer salads can combine locally sourced produce, whole grains, healthy fats and fresh herbs to satisfy any palate. Versatile and delicious, they travel well and elevate backyard dining. Adding the final pop, a flavorful dressing pulls it all together.
Great Foundations
Sourcing ingredients from our own backyards, local farmers or a communitysupported garden offers a world of choices. “Most produce at farmers markets has been picked or harvested at the peak of ripeness
within the last 24 to 48 hours. The initial flavor and juiciness are robust and different from produce that is picked and shipped,” says Jane Maxwell, former executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association, in Naperville, Illinois. She emphasizes that farmers provide diversity rarely seen on supermarket shelves. “Instead of a few types of tomatoes, you may find a vendor with six to 10 different varieties of tomatoes, each with a unique flavor and purpose. The flavor of a yellow citrine tomato is very different from a Cherokee purple, and with the variety of flavors, you also get a wide range of micronutrients.”
Maxwell recommends shopping according to personal needs and relying on the senses. “Are you using it today, or do you want it to last the week? Fresh produce will have a sweet aroma. Look for bright colors and items without bruising or shriveling,” she advises. “Don’t be put off by unusually shaped produce. It still has all the amazing qualities you are looking for.”
Sometimes the best salad fixings can be found right in our own neighborhood. Hidden gems include honor-system produce setups at the end of driveways and passionate backyard gardeners that share their surplus.
Bountiful Pairings
Nutritious combos can be artful or simple with an element of spontaneity, depending on what is available. Uncommon additions like sweet, ruby-fleshed plums; crisp, thinly sliced, raw fennel; spicy-sweet, shredded, raw turnips; or pitted black cherries can make mellow produce like Boston lettuce sing.
Cynthia Sass, a registered dietitian and plant-based nutritionist in Los Angeles, offers high-performance nutritional advice to celebrities and professional sports figures. In her practice, satisfying the taste buds is just as important as optimizing nourishment. Her favorite side salads are sliced cucumbers
and cherry tomatoes marinated in lemon vinaigrette and basil, as well as shredded carrot salad with pineapple, fresh ginger and raisins. For a hearty dinner salad, Sass combines greens, lean or plant-based protein and a complex carb like cooked and chilled quinoa, sweet potato or wild rice. She also likes combining warm and cold elements, beginning with a base of crisp lettuce and adding tempeh, veggie kabobs or skewered baby potatoes fresh from the grill.
“Healthy salads are the most delicious and rewarding. Food is medicine,” says Devon Quinn, the executive chef and co-owner of Eden, a contemporary restaurant in Chicago. He likes to incorporate “legumes of any kind and in any form” in his salads, valuing their added high protein and fiber content. For an innovative texture, he suggests, “cooking beans or lentils, patting them dry and then pan-frying them in olive oil until crispy. When bubbles mostly subside, remove them from the oil and wick away excess fat by laying them out on a paper towel, then season
SUMMER BOUNTY GARDEN TOSS WITH JALAPEÑO-LIME DRESSING
YIELD: 6 TO 8 SERVINGS
1 large head of Romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small red or sweet onion, chopped or sliced as thin rings
1 small to medium zucchini or yellow squash, shredded
1 handful fresh mint, chopped
1 handful fresh basil, chopped
2 cups heirloom tomatoes, quartered
DRESSING
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 8 limes
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 Tbsp maple syrup
1 small jalapeño pepper, minced or finely chopped (remove ribs and seeds if less heat is preferred)
¼ tsp applewood smoked salt
In a large serving bowl, toss together the lettuce, red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and zucchini or yellow squash. Sprinkle chopped mint and basil evenly on top and add the heirloom tomatoes. Place the salad in the refrigerator to chill for half an hour to 1 hour before serving. For the dressing, add olive oil, lime juice, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, jalapeño pepper and applewood smoked salt in a medium size bowl and whisk until well-blended. Spoon the dressing over individual salad servings.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
them with kosher salt while hot.”
Delectable Dressings
Healthy sources of fat like avocado and olive oil in zesty dressings can enhance the absorption of carotenoids and other nutrients found in plants, and Sass notes that vinegar can support blood sugar regulation. For creamy dressings, she opts for a base of tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, with fresh herbs and lemon.
Quinn brings out nuances in fruit salads with bright citrus dressings and the addition of piquant herbs like lovage and anise hyssop. For green salads, he adds diced shallots to a vinaigrette made the day before to allow for “pickling” overnight. For a gourmet cheese-like effect without the use of cheese, Quinn pulses in “toasted black walnuts to vinaigrettes with the use of high-quality olive oil.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Ronnachai Palas/shutterstock
The Foods That Fight Alzheimer’s:
Brain Health Begins in the Kitchen
by Allison Petersen, PA-C
Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of families across the country. For many, the fear of losing memory can feel inevitable if other family members have it. But there has been some groundbreaking research about Alzheimer’s. Scientists are finding that Alzheimer’s may have far more to do with lifestyle choices, and especially with food, than previously understood.
What the Research Tells Us About Diet
Two types of diets have been studied the most for their protective effects on the brain: the Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay). Large studies following thousands of people over many years have found that high adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a 21 percent lower risk of dementia, while the MIND diet, which zeroes in specifically on brain-protective foods, is linked to a 14 percent reduction in risk.
Both diets overlap a similar goal: eat lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and healthy fats. They also focus on reducing consumption of meat, dairy and processed foods.
Researchers have also been able to study certain populations around the world and how diet can affect Alzheimer’s disease rates. Japan offers a compelling real-world example. As the country shifted away
from its traditional diet of rice, vegetables, fish and soy toward a more Western way of eating, researchers found Alzheimer’s rates climbed from just 1 percent in 1985 to 7 percent by 2008.
The Foods That Protect the Brain
Of all the foods studied in brain health research, dark leafy greens stand alone as the most strongly protective. This includes spinach, kale, collards and arugula. It is recommended to consume at least six servings per week.
Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries, are also likely to support a healthy brain. A Harvard University study analyzing data from 16,000 women found that those who ate at least one weekly serving of blueberries and two servings of strawberries showed rates of cognitive decline up to two and a half years slower than those who ate no berries. The antioxidants in the berries appear to inhibit plaque formation and help protect nerve cells in the brain.
Fatty fish such as salmon provide omega-3 fatty acids that are associated with roughly 20 percent lower dementia risk overall. Research shows that each additional small increment of daily omega-3 intake links to meaningfully less cognitive decline over time.
barbara werner for pexels.com
Brain-Supportive Foods to Embrace
FOOD GROUP EXAMPLES
Dark Leafy Greens Spinach, Kale, Arugula
RECOMMENDED INTAKE
At least 6 servings per week
Berries Blueberries, Strawberries At least 2 servings per week
Fatty Fish Salmon, Sardines
At least 1 serving per week
Nuts Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios At least 5 servings per week
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use as the primary cooking fat in place of butter
Beans and Legumes Lentils, Chickpeas, Black Beans At least 3 servings per week
Whole Grains Oats, Brown Rice, Whole Wheat At least 3 servings per week
Other Vegetables At least 1 serving per day
The good news is that it is never too early or too late to start making health dietary choices that support brain health. The dietary choices made today, whether in young adulthood or midlife, are already influencing the brain of decades from now.
And this approach does not demand perfection. A handful of blueberries at breakfast, more leafy greens at lunch, a warming bowl of lentil soup for dinner. Simple, nourishing swaps made consistently over time can add up to big changes for the brain.
Allison Petersen is a Physician Assistant (PA-C) and plant-based food blogger. Check her out at NaturalliePlantBased.com.
I found my thrill on Blueberry Hill.
–Fats Domino
COLD HONEYDEW-BLUEBERRY SALAD WITH MEYER LEMON HONEY DRIZZLE
YIELD: 6 TO 8 SERVINGS
1 large honeydew melon (ripe and fragrant)
2 pints fresh blueberries
1 large Meyer lemon, juiced
1 Tbsp local honey
1 small handful fresh herbs (preferably pineapple sage or spearmint), chopped
1 pinch fleur de sel salt
Scoop out the melon with a melon baller and gently mix in all the other ingredients in a large bowl. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours before serving. For an extra frosty effect, place the already-chilled melon salad in the freezer for ½ hour before serving. Serve in a decorative, colorful bowl with a few fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
Pickleball Prowess
Getting in Shape for the Court
by Zak Logan
Pickleball is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing outdoor sports in the United States, with an estimated 19.8 to 24.3 million Americans playing on neighborhood courts, parks and recreation centers. Its fast pace, social atmosphere and small court make it easy to learn and enjoy, but the game’s sudden movements, rapid direction changes and repetitive swings can challenge muscles and joints.
Each year, 90 percent of the estimated 66,000 to 100,000 pickleball-related injuries occur in players aged 50 and older. “This is a wonderful sport for social connection, cardiovascular endurance and health. The game is great to play, but only when the body is warmed up and strong,” says New York City-based fitness trainer Rachel Nicks.
Simple strength exercises and a regular warm-up routine can reduce the risk of sudden falls, back pain and tendonitis of the wrist and elbow. Targeting certain muscle groups, especially those governing grip strength, core stability and balance, is essential.
Pickleball Prep
Physical therapist Leo Talaganis, at Impact Physical Therapy, in Chicago, notes common injuries that cause painful inflammation of the tendons include lateral epicondylitis affecting the elbow and Achilles tendonitis causing ankle pain. “This comes from players who may not move a lot during the week, but overexert themselves during gameplay,” Talaganis observes. He stresses the importance of maintaining fitness off the court and between games by incorporating rowing
movements, wrist circles and side-lying shoulder external rotations using one- or two-pound weights. Standing exercises like sidestepping with a resistance exercise band around the ankles are also beneficial.
Talaganis’ warm-up includes light cardio such as walking, then jogging around the court, a few side-to-side shuffles while in a low stance and trunk rotations (gently twisting from side to side) with the paddle in hand. Heel raises and lunges help to warm up the ankles, while arm circles and wrist stretches reinforce the upper
“Be sure to keep the wrist in a neutral position to avoid straining muscles in the forearm and elbow,” he advises.
Nicks encourages players to invest five to 10 minutes warming up and avoid the temptation of playing several days a week without proper rest and recovery time. Building pelvic floor strength and mixing things up strengthen more than one muscle group. “I believe cross-training is important and suggest rest days, yoga, breath work, foam rolling and low-impact strength training two to three times a week to prevent stiffness and
Helpful Essentials
To protect the knees, chiropractic physician Brant Hulsebus, in Rockford, Illinois, emphasizes the importance of alignment, highlighting the lumbar (lower)
spine, hip flexor muscles and the piriformis, a muscle in the gluteal region that stabilizes the hip joint. He recommends the yoga “pigeon pose” and a basic piriformis stretch of lying on the back and “moving the shoulder toward the opposite knee and vice versa.”
Hulsebus also champions the “bird dog” exercise for core stability, as well as stronger hips, ankles and spine. Start in a tabletop posi tion with hands and knees on the floor. Then, extend the right arm forward and the left leg backward while keeping the spine neutral. Hold for 10 seconds. Repeat eight to 12 times for each side.
The American Association of Retired Persons recommends an exer cise in the pool to strengthen shoulders and arms. With bent knees, pretend to swim, moving arms in a forward motion, then change direction to mimic a backstroke. For injury prevention, Mayo Clin ic cautions against backpedaling and recommends getting used to standing in a “ready position” with bent knees and a wide stance.
Nicks recommends a standing, mini-band ex ercise for activating and strengthening the gluteal muscles. Place the exercise
band just above the knees and stand with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Gently squat until the thighs are parallel to the floor, and pulse up and down a few inches while pressing knees outward against the band for 15 to 20 repetitions.
To avoid injuries on the pickleball court, rest is just as important as strengthening exercises. According to Nicks, “Recovery should not be viewed as doing nothing or doing less. Recovery is the best way to stay healthy, strong and continue playing
Talaganis notes that adding recovery time should always include a cooldown of low-intensity walking and stretching after pickleball games. For older players, he advises avoiding injury by not chasing the ball and limiting the effort to no more than two or three steps.
Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to natural health and getting back to basics.
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Images/CanvaPro
Pigeon Pose
Chiropractic to the Rescue:
It Helps IBD, ADHD, PMS and Other Conditions
by Dr. Edward Group
Chiropractic care corrects spinal alignment abnormalities as a means of treating a wide range of health problems. Addressing skeletal and muscular disorders, nerve-related issues and relieving pain are just the beginning. Research studies reported in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics and the journal of healing science Explore have found chiropractic beneficial in treating connective tissue abnormalities, infant lactose intolerance and even autism.
More than $13 billion is spent annually on chiropractic health services, making it the largest alternative health practice in the U.S. Science supports its usefulness in addressing a wide range of conditions.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). A Canadian survey of chiropractors has reported success in using spinal manipulation to relieve IBD, colitis and other bowel disorders (Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology).
Cancer. The Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine publishes numerous studies of therapies supporting cancer patients suffering the side effects of conventional treatment. The American Journal of Clinical Oncology reports that chiropractic care rates as one of the leading alternative medical treatments for pain management, among other related benefits. Chiropractic offers economical and effective strategies that may help quality of life, as discussed in Seminars in Oncology Nursing
High Blood Pressure. While many relevant studies can’t yet generalize results, the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics documents success by chiropractors treating hypertension without the downside of medical drugs that can include the risk of stroke (University of Alabama at Birmingham).
Chronic Sinusitis. Patients with nasal and sinus passages that don’t drain properly due to physical or nerverelated causes may find relief through chiropractic care. A study cited in the same journal showed that patients
Albina Glisic/ Shutterstock.com
experienced relief of all related symptoms after a single adjustment.
Arthritis. A study published in a journal from the the University of Virginia School of Medicine Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies notes that arthritis patients obtaining chiropractic care enjoyed better health and quality of life than those that did not.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). In clinical studies, combining manual spinal adjustment with soft tissue therapy has been found to relieve PMS discomfort. In one study, two groups of women were tested, switching off in receiving chiropractic adjustments or a placebo alternative. Each time, the group receiving chiropractic adjustments reported the greatest improvements (Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics).
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A study published in Explore suggests that chiropractic care combined with other holistic elements such as appropriate nutrition may provide a more gentle, yet effective approach than conventional psychotropic drugs. It employed chiropractic treatment for boys 9 to 13 years old diagnosed with ADHD. Spinal manipulation with nutritional supplementation was reported to improve hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsiveness and behavioral, social and emotional difficulties.
Headaches. Based on recent studies, spinal manipulation has proven effective against migraines and headaches originating from the neck. Manual therapy of the spine, along with neck exercises, promotes improvement in patients with neck-related headaches. Side effects are rare and minor (Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics).
Local Chiropractic Resource:
Precision Healing and Wellness: 17040 W. Greenfield Ave., Ste. 6, Brookfield. Visit PrecisionHealing.org See ad on page 2.
Dr. Edward Group is CEO and co-founder of the Global Healing Center, in Houston, TX. He is a doctor of chiropractic trained in naturopathy, herbals and clinical nutrition.
Providing comprehensive Myofascial Release programs since 2002
The only private Myofascial Release clinic in SE Wisconsin that accepts multiple insurance plans, including Medicare Call now to begin YOUR healing journey!
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Dave Vollmers
Licensed Occupational Therapist 890 Elm Grove Rd, Ste 1-1 Elm Grove, WI 53122 414-778-1341 SpecializedTherapyServices.com
One Step I Never Skip for My Skin
A Few Easy, Well-Sourced Sun-Care Reminders from Someone Who Spends Her Days Formulating Soap and Skincare—not Sunscreen.
by Kerrieanne Lischka
Acouple of years ago, I noticed a small spot on my forehead. It wasn’t painful, it wasn’t dramatic, and honestly, I almost let it go. But something told me to get it checked, and that small decision led to Mohs surgery, a procedure where a surgeon removes a skin growth layer by layer until it’s completely gone.
Sitting in the procedure room, waiting while layers were removed and tested, I had a lot of time to think about sun exposure: the decades of it, the days I didn’t think twice about, the moments I assumed didn’t count. Walks outside. Gardening. Driving with the Jeep top down. Nothing dramatic. But skin damage doesn’t happen all at once; it adds up quietly, year after year, until it doesn’t.
As the founder and formulator behind Ollie Skincare, I spend my days thinking about goat milk, oils, waxes and butters. I’m not a dermatologist, and I’m definitely not a sunscreen formulator. But I’ve come to think of skincare as three things: cleanse, moisturize and protect. At Ollie, we focus on the first two. After my experience with skin cancer, I started thinking the third one might be the most important.
Sun damage is quiet. It doesn’t announce itself … until one day, it does.
What follows isn’t my opinion. It’s a handful of habits from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the Skin Cancer
Foundation, the way I wish someone had told me years ago: simply, personally, and without the lecture.
A Milwaukee Reality Check
Here in Wisconsin, it’s easy to think of sun protection as a beach-vacation thing or something for tropical climates, not our four-season backyard. But Milwaukee’s UV index regularly climbs into the “very high” range during June, July and August, with some summer afternoons reaching a UV index of 7 to 10 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. That’s prime time for the farmers markets, lake walks, garden beds and porch coffee that make Wisconsin summers so good.
You don’t need to stay inside. You just need a few habits, and they’re easier than you’d think.
A Few Easy Habits Worth Building
Make it part of your morning, not an afterthought. I keep sunscreen right next to my everyday skincare so it’s the last step before I walk out the door—rain, clouds or sunshine. Cleanse, moisturize, SPF. That’s it. The AAD recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, regardless of season or weather.
Use more than you think you need. The Skin Cancer Foundation points out that most people apply only 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount, which means they’re not getting anywhere near the SPF on the label. A generous amount, reapplied through the day, matters more than the number on the bottle. The AAD recommends reapplying at least every two hours, or right after swimming or sweating.
Don’t forget the spots you can’t easily see. Ears, eyelids, lips, the scalp, hairline, neck, the backs of your hands and feet. These are the areas where people miss the most.
Don’t skip cloudy days. This one surprised me. Up to 80 percent of UV rays can still get through cloud cover, according to dermatology guidance. If I’m outside, I wear sunscreen, gray sky or not.
Kerrieanne Lischka
More SPF isn’t a free pass. SPF 30 already blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays, and going higher only adds a little more. The AAD is clear that a high number doesn’t mean you can skip reapplying.
Cover Up. Slap on a hat, a shirt and wrap-on sunglasses to protect your eyes and sensitive skin around them, as recommended by the American Cancer Society
It’s for every age and every skin tone. This one matters to me. Sun protection isn’t just for fair skin or beach days. It’s for everyone, every age, all year.
Where Ollie Skincare Fits In
We don’t make sunscreen, and we’re not trying to. At Ollie, we focus on cleansing and moisturizing—products that support healthy skin day to day. But no cleanser or moisturizer replaces sun protection. Cleanse, moisturize, SPF. Our products handle the first two. Sunscreen handles the third, and it’s protecting you from damage that might not show up for years.
I’m not writing this as an expert. I’m writing it as someone who learned, almost the hard
way, that sun protection is worth those extra few seconds.
If reading this makes you think twice about your own routine, or finally book that skin check you’ve been putting off, or toss a tube of sunscreen in your bag before the next farmers market, then it did its job.
Ollie Skincare products are available online and at local shops and markets throughout Southeast Wisconsin. For more information or to shop, visit OllieSkincare.com.
Beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle.
–Erno Laszlo
Beyond Swim Lessons
Teaching Kids To Love and Respect Natural Aquatic Settings
by Christina Connors
For many families, summer memories include long days at the lake, wading along a shoreline or learning to paddle across quiet coves. In the past, children often developed comfort around natural water environments by repeated exposure during family outings, but today, many begin their aquatic journey with structured swim lessons in the pool, where they learn critical safety measures and basic swimming skills.
After the controlled environment of a pool, natural settings like lakes, rivers and beaches present unique and unpredictable
challenges, as well as opportunities. Murky water, hidden drop-offs, shifting currents and unexpected temperatures demand a new level of awareness. But when a carp leaps out of the water, giggles are sure to follow. With gradual exposure, positive encouragement and smart safety habits, families can help children bridge the gap between swim lessons and outdoor water adventures, raising kids with a lifelong love for the water.
Swimming Is a Life Skill
“Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children 1 to 4 years old,” says Nicole Ragone, a professional swim
instructor at LaFleur’s Little Flippers Swim School, in Tampa, Florida. “Not only does learning how to swim teach children survival skills, it increases their confidence, coordination and multitasking abilities. Kids that learn how to swim are also learning how to deal with and overcome anxiety and high-stress situations.”
The benefits of swim lessons extend far beyond the water. Practicing breath control in the water provides children with a calming tool they can use anywhere, and the process of learning to do something difficult or scary builds a belief in their own capabilities.
Beyond the Pool
Research published in 2025 in the journal Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy supports what many instructors intuitively know: The skills children build in pool settings do not automatically carry over to open water. The study, which assessed 9- to 10-year-olds in both controlled pool conditions and dynamic open-water environments, found meaningful differences in how children performed between the two settings, underscoring why supported exposure to natural water is an important part of a child’s aquatic education.
A pool is predictable: The bottom is visible; the depth is clearly marked; and there are walls to grab. Natural water offers none of those reassurances, and this difference is significant. “Families should be aware that swimming in natural bodies of water comes with higher risk than pool swimming,” Ragone explains. “Natural bodies of water have more hazards, such as murky water, which can result in children getting caught or scared. Rocks are slippery; currents can be strong; and there are often drop-offs without a good place for a child to grab if they get nervous.”
For younger, less experienced swimmers, she recommends keeping life jackets on children in lakes and rivers until they are extremely competent swimmers. At beaches,
watch for rip currents, waves and changing tides. In rivers, even a gentle-looking current can surprise a small child. The aim is awareness, not fear.
Building Confidence
“Safe ways to introduce a child to any water are slowly and confidently. It’s important for them to learn one thing at a time and to feel confident in it before moving forward,” Ragone says. “We encourage kids to say things like, ‘I did it!’ and you can see their faces light up. It allows them to recognize something they did right, which builds confidence.”
This approach is equally effective at the beach or lake. Start at the shoreline, allowing children to splash and explore before wading in. Wade before swimming. Swim in calm, shallow water before going further. Keep early sessions short and end them on a high note. A child that leaves the water smiling will want to return.
Ragone is firm about what to avoid: “I would not make it seem too scary or tell horror stories, as this could deter a child from wanting to even try.” Honest, age-appropriate conversations about water hazards are important, framed around caution and respect, not fear.
Safety Habits
“Children need to feel confident but cautious around natural bodies of water,” Ragone advises. “Constant supervision should be exercised until they are competent swimmers.” Among the core habits she recommends are always asking permission before going in the water, never swimming alone, following boundaries set by parents and lifeguards, and walking rather than running on slippery surfaces near water. Adult modeling of safe behavior is crucial. When caregivers wear life jackets on the boat, respect swim flags at the beach and model careful entry into unknown water, children absorb those habits as normal.
Loving the Water
Summer days near the water are among the most vivid memories
many adults carry: the smell of sunscreen, the shock of a cold lake, the triumph of swimming out to the dock for the very first time. Children that grow up comfortable in and around water carry other gifts, too: a love of movement, a connection to the natural world and the quiet confidence of knowing they belong there. Start with swim lessons. Move to the shoreline. Wade in together. Celebrate every splash. The water is waiting.
Christina Connors is a burnout prevention specialist, keynote singer and author. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com
Juliya Shangarey/shutterstock
Georgy
Sustainable Water Features
Bringing Home Gardens to Life
by Maya Whitman
Home gardens provide a peaceful retreat in a noisy world, and water features can transform any outdoor space into an eco-friendly sanctuary. A tranquil pond, recirculating solar fountain, charming birdbath or waterfall made from recycled material can create a haven for pollinators, birds and amphibians. These aesthetically pleasing features also serve as natural coolants and air purifiers. When excess water droplets in the air release negative ions, they capture dust, allergens and pollutants as they evaporate.
“A water feature doesn’t have to be large to make an impact. In a small backyard, a wall fountain, solar fountain or simple tiered fountain can add soothing sound without taking up much space, especially when placed near a patio, path or seating area,” says Kristin Broadwell, owner of Fountains USA, in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Enhancing an urban, suburban or rural backyard with a water feature can be a luxurious endeavor or a budget-friendly project. Having an informed plan in advance can prevent unforeseen complications.
Eco-Friendly Fountains and Birdbaths
Choosing a recirculating fountain with a closed-loop system not only provides the soothing ambiance of flowing water, but, when properly maintained, can be an effective solution for water conservation. Broadwell explains, “Eco-friendly fountains save water by reusing it in a loop and using smaller, more efficient pumps. Solar fountains are popular, too, because they can help save energy and lower power use. They are also easy to place in sunny spots and work well for small gardens and patios.”
She also recommends fountains that use collected rainwater to alleviate the burden on local water systems and prevent stormwater runoff. Other sustainable and low-maintenance options are fountains made out of bamboo fashioned after traditional Japanese designs, as well as ceramic pot fountains crafted from carbon-free clay, which emit a distinctive and pleasing sound while adding artistic appeal.
A birdbath can serve as a captivating focal point and provide our feathered friends with clean water for drinking and bathing during hot weather. Broadwell suggests using a shallow bath, ensuring the water depth does not exceed two inches, and incorporating a few flat rocks to provide safe landing spots for birds and bees. She also recommends placing it in a location where birds can be aware of potential threats while still having nearby shrubs or small trees for cover. A spot that offers both sun and shade is ideal, and frequent water changes are essential to maintain cleanliness.
To create a mesmerizing evening vibe, submersible lights can illuminate a fountain or birdbath with a magical glow. Broadwell
Bonnie Taylor Barry/shutterstock
suggests adding soft solar lights along a pathway leading to a fountain or strategically placing accent lights around the base of a tree. Incorporating natural elements can enhance the ambiance further. Live plants can make a fountain appear like a natural, integral part of the garden rather than a standalone object.
Broadwell emphasizes the importance of selecting materials judiciously, acknowledging concrete and terra-cotta for their strength, and rough surfaces that provide secure grip for birds. Metal is also a good choice due to its low-maintenance longevity.
Pond Strategies
A pond can be a stunning addition to a backyard, elevating its beauty and fostering a healthy ecosystem through natural filtration. “When we create beauty in our outdoor spaces, we are also making great contributions to the environment,” says Ed Buck, president of the Midwest Pond and Koi Society, in Lisle, Illinois. Healthy ponds rely on a balance of beneficial bacteria, plants and aquatic life to keep the ecosystem thriving. “‘Good’ bacteria consume the ‘bad’ bacteria, and by stocking fish, frogs and plants in our ponds, we create an ecosystem that provides for itself,” he explains.
Buck recommends exploring options that satisfy both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Illustrating the needed thinking process, he says, “Do you want a water garden, fishpond or both? What size? How deep? Ground ponds should be a minimum of three to three-and-a-half feet deep, and it is best to have depth from the edges to deter fish-eating predators.” If plans include digging a pond or having one installed, Buck suggests planning it “a little bigger than you imagine, so you’re not wishing it was bigger when the project is completed. Start small if you’re on a budget.”
Aquatic and semi-aquatic plants such as arrowhead, pickerelweed, water lily and lotus offer a wide range of possibilities for adding exotic beauty. “There are many different colors and varieties of each that are both hardy and tropical,” says Buck, adding that algae is a natural occurrence that undergoes cycles and can be managed through natural means. For mosquito concerns, the insects are “generally not an issue because water is always moving, and fish naturally consume the larvae.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Angela Royle/shutterstock
eeenevski/CanvaPro
Cool Canines
Holistic Summer Tips To Keep Dogs Happy, Active and Itch-Free
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
As the weather warms up, dogs often find themselves dealing with overheating and seasonal pests, as well as the physical toll of longer walks and increased outdoor activities. Addressing these seasonal challenges proactively can help our furry friends stay comfortable, active and resilient all summer long.
Hydration, Shade and Smart Timing
Dogs generate body heat quickly, and their cooling systems are less efficient than ours. Shifting activity to early morning or evening can significantly reduce thermal stress. Pavement can reach temperatures that damage paw pads even before it feels uncomfortable, so it is a good idea to choose grass or shaded trails whenever possible.
Carrying more water than seems necessary is usually the right call. Water breaks every
15 to 20 minutes on active outings and adding warm broth or gently cooked food to the bowl at home will help keep them hydrated. If a dog is panting heavily after a mild exertion or cannot settle down indoors, it is time to take a break and cool down to prevent further complications.
Parasite Support
Peak flea and tick season calls for a comprehensive, layered approach. Daily combing after outdoor playtime, frequent baths after trail runs, hot-water washing of bedding and consistent vacuuming collectively address the environmental lifecycle that on-pet products alone cannot effectively manage.
A rinse for external use made with two ounces of apple cider vinegar and a gallon of water can also help reduce the overall flea problem when used regularly with other measures. Use a sponge or hands to apply
the diluted vinegar to the coat, especially under the tummy and along the inside of the legs where itching and fleas tend to be more noticeable. Avoid the eyes, ears and any open or irritated skin.
If parasitic activity is especially high in a specific area, or local disease cases are increasing, it might be appropriate to use a conventional preventive for a short while. Avoiding tick-borne illness and flea anemia should be the priority. A well-nourished dog with a robust immune system is better equipped to respond to environmental challenges, which is why nutrition and parasite management work together, rather than in isolation.
Movement and Recovery
Certified holistic pet health coach, canine rehabilitation practitioner and canine fitness trainer Jennifer Holmes brings a grounded, practical lens to summer conditioning, working with dogs across a wide range of fitness levels and health histories.
“Summer movement should support the body, rather than overload it,” she says. “I encourage shorter outings in the cooler parts of the day, joint-friendly surfaces like grass or dirt trails and plenty of recovery between adventures.”
Overweight dogs need not be excluded from summer activities. Research published in Veterinary Research Communications shows that even a small amount of weight loss can improve lameness in obese dogs with osteoarthritis, with improvements seen once weight loss reaches 6.1 percent. An overview published by the Canadian Academy of Veterinary Nutrition explains that body fat not
only adds extra pressure to joints, but also releases inflammatory compounds like leptin, which can increase inflammation within the joints and throughout the body.
For senior dogs or those with joint concerns, Holmes suggests focusing on small, consistent investments, rather than larger, infrequent efforts. She explains, “A smart summer day may include a short morning walk; a few, gentle strength exercises; rest during the heat; and another easy movement session later. Simple exercises like slow walking, sitting on a hill, backing up, stepping over low objects and weight shifts can support strength, balance and confidence.”
When it comes to hands-on recovery at home, Holmes advises pet parents to start with calm observation. “Run your hands lightly over the body and notice heat, tension, sensitivity or swelling. Then, use slow, gentle strokes over the shoulders, back, hips and legs,” she counsels. “Light massage, gentle muscle compression, slow paw holds and quiet rest can help the nervous system settle.” The key rhythm she describes is simple: “Dogs build strength through movement, and they recover during rest.”
Nutrition as Foundation
Beyond exercise and weight management, Holmes notes that nutrition is also crucial for mobility. Quality protein, healthy fats, hydration and colorful, dog-safe vegetables can all contribute to joint health and movement. Supplements such as omega-3s, green-lipped mussel, collagen, glucosamine chondroitin, turmeric and herbs that support a healthy inflammatory response may also aid in joint comfort and mobility. It is best to use these supplements under the guidance of a veterinarian or certified pet health coach.
For dogs with sensitive digestion or those traveling frequently, a spore-based probiotic that survives heat can help maintain resilient gut function on the road. Consistent dietary choices impact coat
condition, joint resilience, inflammatory tone and a dog’s ability to handle the environmental exposures summer brings. Moisture-rich, gently cooked meals tend to support digestion and hydration more effectively than dry, ultra-processed kibble, particularly during warmer months.
Consistency Is Key
Holistic summer wellness does not require perfection or a complete departure from conventional tools. It is built upon small, repeatable habits: keeping the bowl moisture-rich and nutritionally sound; moving with intention and allowing appropriate recovery time; layering parasitic protection proportionately; and knowing a dog’s baseline well enough to notice early changes. As Holmes puts it, “Activity today should support tomorrow’s movement.” Done consistently, these daily choices help protect comfort now, while supporting resilience and mobility in the future.
Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com
The Freedom to Choose How You Feel:
Real Connection Begins Within
by Jeoffrey Hutcherson
Iwant to share some empowerment with you. The one thing we all want is to have connection with each other, yet it seems that some people are doing everything except allowing real connection to take place.
If everyone is fighting over everything, the people will oppress themselves, and those in “power” stay in power because we are distracted.
Men are afraid of woman and women are afraid of men. It seems as though many people still want to find any reason and opportunity to be offended, and few will take any responsibility for how their life is going. After all, blame is easier than responsibility. Let’s address this right now.
how you are feeling about what you are observing. If you think any thoughts of dis-empowerment just remember: You don’t have to believe what you think! Especially if it doesn’t feel good. You can allow yourself to feel bad if you want, but just know that you can begin to feel better as soon as you want to.
This is one of many ways to recognize our own power to choose our feelings and recognize that our thoughts and feelings don’t control us. This helps to bring more love, joy and truth into our heart. Feel free to come up with your own flavor and style.
You all, from this moment on, have a clean slate.
It’s not for anyone to give to you, other than you who is making the decision, and you can choose to follow through on it for the rest of your days.
We can start right from here:
Men: Take your power back from women. No one controls how you think and feel about you except you. Choose to feel good about yourself, regardless of someone else’s opinion of you.
Women: Take your power back from men. No one controls how you think and feel about you except you. Choose to feel good about yourself, regardless of someone else’s opinion of you.
See how easy that was? All you have to do now is simply monitor
I choose how I feel, then do what I can do and I don’t waste my time complaining about the thing I choose to do. I have the power to stop doing it. I make my decisions. I make peace with the decisions I choose to make. I choose not to do something, and I make peace with not doing it.
I love myself enough to remember that I’m always in control of how I feel. And so are you.
Jeoffrey R. Hutcherson, LMT, founder of CinnerG Systems in Brookfield, blends massage therapy, martial arts, physical therapy and Letha yoga into a unique, evidence-based approach to pain relief and recovery. He specializes in helping clients address the root causes of conditions such as migraines, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, frozen shoulder and carpal tunnel syndrome, supporting long-term wellness through personalized therapeutic care. For more information or to make an appointment, visit JeoffreyHutcherson.com/Massage or call 262-894-3515. See listing on page 37.
Jeoffrey R. Hutcherson, LMT
Calendar of Events
Wednesday, July 1-29
Goddess Wisdom Circle – 6-7:30pm. Explore Goddess archetypes through mythology, psychology and astrology in this 5-week circle with journaling prompts, ritual and guided reflection. $40 per session or $175 for all five. Ambitious Vibes Candle Bar, 232 Main St, Racine. MerakiWorkshops.com
Fri-Sun, July 10-12
Quantum Healing for the Soul Retreat –Fri 4-8:30pm, Sat 9am-8:30pm, Sun 9am12pm. A weekend retreat focused on soul alignment, healing and personal transformation through holistic practices including energy healing, breathwork, meditation and journaling. $333 includes meals; lodging options available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd., Sobieski. 920-428-0588. GoldenLightHealing.net
Saturday, July 18
Creative Kids Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Fun, creative yoga class for children ages 2½-8 and a caring adult. Through songs, stories, games, breathing exercises, yoga poses and a craft, families will explore mindfulness, movement, focus and connection in a playful environment. No experience necessary. $10 per participant. Yoga 4 All WI, 208 E Oak Crest Dr, Wales. 414-559-3852.
Sunday, July 19
Milwaukee Makers Market – 10am-4pm. MMM Fest! Enjoy this free monthly market showcasing a curated mix of local artists, crafters and small-business owners. Shop ceramics, woodwork, artisan foods, handcrafted home décor and other handmade goods in Milwaukee. Discovery World, 500 N Harbor Dr., Milwaukee. MilwaukeeMakersMarket.com
Thurs-Sun,
July 23-26
Peruvian Shamanism Training with Jose Luis Herrera
1:30pm Thurs. to 1pm Sun. A four-part training exploring Peruvian shamanic traditions. Participants create a medicine bundle (mesa) used as a map for transformation and healing. Addtl. sessions: Sept. 10-13, Nov. 12-15. $799 per session; meals included. Golden Light Healing, Sobieski 920-428-0588
GoldenLightHealing.net
Sat-Sun, August 1-2
The Herbal Apprentice with Gigi Stafne – 9am-4pm. Two-day intensive exploring the foundations of botanical medicine, combining practical application with the science and philosophy of herbalism. Topics include top North American herbs, herbal preparations, apothecary basics and natural approaches to modern stressors. Participants receive a certificate of completion; suitable for beginners and those with prior study. $333; lunch included. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd., Sobieski. 920-428-0588. GoldenLightHealing.net
Thurs-Sat, August 13-15
Wisconsin Grand Championships: Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Inter-regional dance competition featuring dancers from Wisconsin and across the country. Part of the Fred Astaire World Cup Series, competitors can earn points toward year-end cash prizes. Spectators welcome. $20 per person per session. Brookfield Conference Center, 325 S Moreland Rd, Brookfield. FredAstaire.com/Wisconsin. 262-241-1221.
Thurs-Sun, August 20-23
Mavis’s Ways with Jean Else and Annie Gee – 9:30am-5pm. Mediumship training: explore the teachings and legacy of Mavis Pittilla with Jean Else and Annie Gee. Learn practical approaches to deepening communication, evidence, presentation and service to Spirit. $799, lunch included. Lodging available. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-428-0588. GoldenLightHealing.net
Thurs-Sun, October 15-18
Whispers on the Wind Shamanic Program – Intensive training program in shamanism, energy medicine and self-transformation. Learn core energy healing techniques including power animal and soul retrieval, clearing past-life and ancestral imprints, connecting with the forces of Nature, ceremony and ritual, and more. Four 4-day sessions over 12 months: Oct. 15-18 and Dec. 10-13, 2026; Feb. 18-21 and Apr. 15-18, 2027. Must attend all four sessions. $750/session includes meals. Golden Light Healing, 7102 Sundew Rd, Sobieski. 920-428-0588. GoldenLightHealing.net
calendar events
our online calendar for FREE!
Ongoing Events
Wednesday
Every 2nd Wednesday Caregiver Support Group 10:45am-Noon.
Connect with others who understand the caregiver journey. Open to caregivers of spouses or family members with Parkinson’s, MS, Alzheimer’s, dementia, TBI or similar conditions. Free.
Open Door Movement Studio 9205 W. Center Street, #202 Milwaukee 414-563-7341
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, call 262-623-7948 or email Publisher@NaturalMKE.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
PLUMERIA ACUPUNCTURE AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER
2500 N Mayfair Rd, Ste 410, Wauwatosa 414-687-0087
PlumeriaWellness.com
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 4.
Advertising/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.
Karina Ramsey is a multi-passionate individual who teaches astrology and yoga, and 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.
Body Contouring
A NEW COMPASS FOR WELLNESS
Dr. Ann M Bell
W227N16855 Tillie Lake Ct, Jackson 262-644-7050
Office@DrAnnBell.com 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 21.
Bodywork
BECKY TESCH YOGA AND THAI BODYWORK
Becky Tesch
Bec.Tesch@gmail.com
BeckyTesch.com
Becky Tesch is a Thai Bodyworker/yoga teacher at Vantage Collective and also teaches at Healium Yoga. Thai Bodywork uses passive stretching, accupressure and compression to heal bodies and balance energy.
Bookkeeping/Taxes
EIKON ADVISORS
CPA for Individuals and Business Info@EikonAdvisors.com EikonAdvisors.com
Tax preparation and bookkeeping for individuals, wellness practitioners and holistic business owners. Eikon brings big firm and global accounting experience to the people who rarely have access to it. Federal and state returns handled with care so you can focus on what matters. Virtually serving clients.
Chiropractic
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.
Board-certified Natural Health Practitioner | Detox Expert | Colon Hydrotherapist | Massage Therapist | Lymphatic Drainage: Improve digestion, reduce inflammation, boost liver function by opening pathways detoxing the body of harmful organisms. Addressing the root cause of dis-ease.
Crystals
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.
Dance
FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIOSMEQUON Mequon: 262-241-1221
LSnyder@FredAstaire.com FredAstaire.com/Mequon
Fred Astaire Dance Studios provides professional ballroom and Latin dance instruction for all skill levels, offering personalized lessons, a welcoming atmosphere, and a fun path to confidence and fitness. See ad on page 13.
FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIOSPEWAUKEE
Pewaukee: 262-691-8181
LSnyder@FredAstaire.com FredAstaire.com/Pewaukee
Fred Astaire Dance Studios provides professional ballroom and Latin dance instruction for all skill levels, offering personalized lessons, a welcoming atmosphere, and a fun path to confidence and fitness. See ad on page 13.
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 back cover.
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 5.
“…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.
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 25.
Energy Enhancement System
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS
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 ad on page 5.
Energy Healing
SOLANA SOUL
Sara Joy
200 W Summit Ave, Ste 210, Wales Sara@SolanaSoul.com
SolanaSoul.com
Lake Country’s premier wellness spot offering energy work, intuitive guidance, sound healing and grief support by internationally recognized intuitive Sara Joy.
Fitness
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 21.
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 15.
Holistic Health
BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS
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 ad on page 5.
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
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
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 29.
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 21.
Massage Therapy
FLORA & STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
Jessica Lueneburg, LMT
W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste C, Cedarburg
Jess.info@FloraStoneMT.com FloraStoneMT.com
Creating a mindbody-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.
RENEE GOLDMAN MASSAGE 11516 N Port Washington Rd, Ste. 208, Mequon 815-222-6305
ReneeGoldmanMassage.com
Personalized therapeutic massage exclusively for women, combining relaxation and pain relief through hands-on techniques, cupping, heated tools and aromatherapy to restore balance in mind and body. See ad on page 9.
JEOFFREY R HUTCHERSON, LMT CINNERG SYSTEMS
17040 W. Greenfield Ave, Ste. 6, Brookfield
333 Bishops Way, #108, Brookfield 262-894-3515
JeoffreyHutcherson.com/Massage
Let’s see how much better you can feel! The goal is to get you out of pain and moving better, stronger and easier with evidence-based techniques that give relief to carpel tunnel, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, frozen shoulder, migraines, sciatica, hip, neck and back pains. Free half-hour gift certificate with full session upgrades available for first-time clients.
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.
Medicine - Naturopathic
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 9.
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 15.
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 23.
Natural Cleaning
ROXY’S NATURAL CLEANING
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 27.
Be
Neurology
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC
NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee 414-453-7780
MilwaukeePainClinic.com
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.
Nutrition
FLORA & STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
Jessica Lueneburg W62N563 Washington Ave, Ste C, Cedarburg 262-894-6915
FloraStoneMT.com
Creating a mind-bodysoul 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
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee 414-453-7780
MilwaukeePainClinic.com
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.
Prolotherapy
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC
NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee 414-453-7780
MilwaukeePainClinic.com
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 | 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 21.
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 23.
Reflexology
RENEWED YOU REFLEXOLOGY 414-852-7870
Renewed-You-Reflexology.square.site
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.
Regenerative Medicine
MILWAUKEE PAIN CLINIC
NEUROLOGY & PAIN TREATMENT
2600 N. Mayfair Rd, Ste. 1120, Milwaukee 414-453-7780 | MilwaukeePainClinic.com
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.
Reiki
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.
Offering workshops, sessions, group & personal retreats in shamanism, mediumship, reiki, psychic development and more.
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 21.
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
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 21.
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 ad on page 5.
Board-certified Natural Health Practitioner | Detox Expert | Colon Hydrotherapist | Massage Therapist | Lymphatic Drainage: Improve digestion, reduce inflammation, boost liver function by opening pathways detoxing the body of harmful organisms. Addressing the root cause of dis-ease.
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 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 262623-7948 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.
Yoga
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 15.
YOGA 4 ALL WI
208 East Oak Crest Dr, Wales, WI 53183 414-559-3852
Yoga4AllWI.com
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.
