Subscriptions are available by sending $29 (for 12 issues) to the above address.
Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Happy Anniversary to Us!
It’s hard to believe it’s been 15 years since I took a major leap of faith and jumped into publishing this magazine with both feet. The rest of me had no choice but to join the adventure!
Quite literally, it was two feet on the ground, going door-todoor to businesses all over the Greater Boston area, introducing business owners to a yet-to-be-published magazine. Using copies obtained from the original Natural Awakenings in Naples, Florida, along with my hometown Rhode Island edition, I moved to Brookline and started knocking on doors to raise enough money to print and distribute our first issue.
It brings me so much joy knowing that some of our earliest partners, those who took a chance on us, are still blessing us with the privilege of supporting their work today.
I invite you to get comfy, grab your favorite beverage, and enjoy the 181st smorgasbord of topics we have for you this month.
In “Natural Skincare Recipes,” we’re reminded that caring for ourselves can be beautifully simple, using everyday ingredients to create nourishing, effective skincare while reducing our impact on the planet. It’s a gentle nudge that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.
In “It Takes a Circle: Building Greener Lives Together,” Hannah Tytus reminds us that lasting change doesn’t happen in isolation; it grows through connection, community and shared responsibility. It’s an inspiring look at how small, collective actions can ripple outward to create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Our Business Spotlight this month features financial advisor John Gautreaux, ChFC, of Independence Financial Partners, in Warwick, Rhode Island, who shares how easing financial stress can have a profound impact on overall well-being by, as he puts it, "helping us sleep better, think more clearly, and feel more grounded." Through trust, thoughtful guidance and meaningful connection, his work becomes not just about money, but about supporting what matters most in people’s lives ... just as we intend for this publication each month.
Happy spring to you and yours ... It's been a long time coming this year, and I hope you enjoy it to the fullest.
Peace,
Experience the Benefits of Distant Reiki with Angelic Abby
Abigail Coveney of Angelic Abby, a trained Reiki Master based in the South Shore area of Massachusetts, offers a wide variety of distant reiki sessions including distant reiki with crystals and distant reiki for animals. For individuals with busy schedules or those preferring the comfort of home, distant reiki sessions by Angelic Abby offer an ideal option.
Reiki is a universal life force energy that helps to naturally heal the body and balance its chakras by putting one in a deeply relaxed state. Coveney reports she has had excellent results from her distant reiki sessions for those with many different types of health issues.
“Clients have reported less stress, pain relief and an overall boost in mood. If you are looking to reduce stress, need assistance with pain relief, have sleep troubles or any other ongoing issue, distance reiki is a wonderful option to help. It is amazing how reiki can be perceived and delivered through miles and miles away,” says Coveney, adding she has even conducted distance sessions in Europe and her client could feel the energy.
Coveney will present a group reiki session on Zoom at 5 p.m. on April 19.
Event cost: $25. For more information, register for the event or to schedule a private session, call 781-277-4837, email ReikiByAbbyy@gmail.com or visit AngelicAbby. com. See Resource Guide, page 37.
2026 Health and Wellness Spring Show Combines Experts and Experiences
The 2026 Health and Wellness Spring Show, hosted by Events by Walter Perlman, will return to the Doubletree by Hilton, in Danvers, Massachusetts, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 26.
Attendees can enjoy free health screenings, experience mini-treatments, sample and purchase wellness products, and schedule appointments with local health experts—all in one convenient location. The show highlights a variety of practices in meditation, fitness, nutrition, holistic health and overall well-being.
Local practitioners will share guidance on maintaining physical and mental health, introducing attendees to new techniques in relaxation, movement, nutrition and lifestyle management. The event also offers opportunities to discover innovative products and services designed to support personal health goals.
This exciting spring event provides a hands-on, educational and interactive experience for anyone interested in improving well-being, connecting with experts, and exploring the latest in health and wellness offerings.
Admission cost: $5 in person; free with advance online registration. Location: 50 Ferncrof Rd., Danvers, MA. For more information including on all vendors and event topics or to register, call 508-460-6656 or visit HealthAndWellnessShow.net. See ad, page 13.
Rebalance Your Routine Adds
Neurotransmitter Testing
Jessica Liggero, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition
Practitioner, is now offering neurotransmitter testing at her virtual holistic health coaching service, Rebalance Your Routine, based in Boston, Massachusetts. This simple, at-home urine test measures calming and excitatory neurotransmitters and provides a protocol that includes supplements, dietary and lifestyle modifications to help restore neurotransmitter balance and production.
The most popular neurotransmitter test evaluates levels of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, GABA, glutamate and histamine. Urinary neurotransmitter testing provides valuable insight for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, brain fog, insomnia/sleep disturbances, ADD/ADHD, fatigue, migraine headaches and autoimmune conditions. Most neurotransmitters are produced in the gut; therefore, individuals with GI issues could significantly benefit from neurotransmitters testing. Evaluating gut health alongside neurotransmitters provides a functional perspective on restoring balance, improving symptoms and optimizing health for long-term stability.
“The sooner that individuals are educated on how to improve their health, the sooner that they can take charge of their well-being, ideally resulting in less dependency on prescription drugs,” says Liggero, adding that neurotransmitter testing can be done in isolation or in combination with additional functional labs for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of ongoing symptoms and chronic illness.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 617-459-8114, email Jessica@RebalanceYourRoutine.com or visit RebalanceYourRoutine.com. See Resource Guide, page 34.
Spring Psychic Festival Features Mystics, Vendors and Wellness Practitioners
The spring edition of Wolf Moon’s Psychic Festivals, featuring the area’s top psychics, wellness practitioners, vendors and more, will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 2 at the Common Fence Point Arts, Wellness and Community Center, in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Professional, gifted mystics from three states—all unique in their style and encompassing tarot, shamanic channeling, mediumship, astrology and more—will be present including Chris McCullough, Allison Pharmakis, Juan Ferrer, Tori McNally, Kevin Soares and event producer Wolf Moon Eduardo.
Wellness practitioners that can meet with attendees will include Cara McGowan, using usi fire reiki and aromatherapy; and Karen Phillips, who provides chakra cleansing with a chakra reading and will also be selling some of her paintings.
Vendors will offer creative, high-quality, handmade and useful goods including jewelry, candles, soap, art and more including Alchemy Soap Works RI; Jack B. Nimble luxury candles; Victoria’s Passion Jewelry; Cat Ink studio, with whimsical art, rugs and original tarot prints; Katherine Hilditch, a gem and crystal dealer; Karen Reese, macrame artist and jeweler; Mary Volk, inventor of the serenity ring; Wolf Moon sacred spaces; and Standing Cedar garden planters.
According to Eduardo, Wolf Moon’s Psychic Festival is the area’s only psychic, wellness and vendor festival, offering information, relaxation plus useful local, handmade goods. Admission: $5. Location: 933 Anthony Rd., Portsmouth. For more information, call 401-2075814, email WolfMoonEduardo@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook. See ad, page 21.
SUSTAINABLE TOGETHER
Strengthening the Systems That Support Your Financial Life
Sustainability grows from the systems we build—not just the choices we make. In your financial life, that means creating structures that reduce friction, support consistency, and make it easier to stay aligned with your long‑term goals. When those systems are shared with the people around you—family, partners, colleagues, or community—they become even more powerful. Start by looking at the routines that shape your financial world.
Do you have a clear process for how decisions get made, how information is stored, or how responsibilities are shared?
Sustainable financial wellness often comes from predictable rhythms: a monthly check‑in with a partner, a quarterly review of key documents, or a simple plan for how you evaluate new opportunities.
This month, focus on strengthening one system that supports your financial life. When our structures are steady, our choices become easier—and sustainability becomes something we build together, not alone.
Schedule some time here: Calendly.com/jgautreaux-indfp
To learn more about how we can help, schedule a no-cost consultation with John now.
John M Gautreaux ChFC® ORIGINATOR 401-691-4138
jgautreaux@indfp.com
For important disclosures please scan the QR code or visit IndependenceFP.net
Fundraising Luncheon to Support
Clothes to Kids in Rhode Island
The nonprofit Clothes to Kids RI will present Clothe a Child, Change a Life, a major fundraising luncheon event, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on April 17 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in Warwick, Rhode Island. Attendees will learn how Clothes to Kids RI changes the lives of school-age children and meet key state, city and community leaders, as well as supporters and volunteers.
Anasa Celebrates
“Every school-age child should have quality clothing so that they may attend school with the confidence and self-esteem needed to achieve academic success,” says Peter Barton, board member of the organization.
Clothes to Kids RI provides new and quality used clothing to low-income or in-crisis children in Providence County, every six months, free of charge. After completing 10 years in operation, more than 17,000 wardrobes have been provided.
Cost: $125/person, $1,250/table of 10, $2,500 sponsor table of 10. Location: 801 Greenwich Ave., Warwick. For more information or to register, call 401-941-8050, email Info@ClothesToKidsri.org, scan the QR code or visit ClothesToKidsri.org.
Free Clinic Provides Screenings, Consultations and Health Resources
TheDr. Gopakumar Nair
LASA Foundation will conduct a free medical clinic from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on April 11 at the Sai Unity Center, in Lowell, Massachusetts, helping to bridge gaps in community health care. In partnership with local health departments, community organizations and culturally diverse health professionals, the clinic will provide preventive health screenings, mental health support services, nutrition and health education, and both general and specialty medical consultations onsite in a welcoming, community-based setting.
Access to timely, compassionate health care remains a challenge for many families, particularly those facing language barriers, lack of insurance or difficulty navigating complex health systems. The clinic addresses these challenges by bringing health care directly into the community through a collaborative and culturally responsive model of care.
Dr. Suman Koganti, medical director of the LASA Foundation, emphasizes that initiatives like this play an important role in strengthening community health. He notes that community clinics not only provide immediate medical attention, but also help individuals connect with preventive services, health education and long-term care pathways, all essential to improving overall public health outcomes.
The clinic will benefit uninsured visitors by offering a one-stop resource hub for medical consultations and guidance on obtaining health insurance and ongoing care. Designed to reduce barriers, the event requires no insurance and will have no wait times. Culturally diverse medical professionals, supported by trained interpreters, will provide integrated, patient-centered care in a respectful and supportive environment.
Location: 40 Old Ferry Rd., Lowell, MA. For more information, call 978-710-4012.
Five-Year Anniversary at New Location
AnasaPersonalized Medicine will hold a special, wellness-focused networking event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 29 that celebrates two milestones—their five-year anniversary of serving the community and the grand opening of their new office at 245 Waterman Street, Suite 200, in Providence, Rhode Island. Attendees will be able to meet and greet their doctors, purchase supplements at a 10 percent or more discount, obtain a complimentary body composition scan, participate in raffles for prizes and enjoy light refreshments. There’ll also be live demos of their BEMER device and a blood draw event with Galleri, a multi-cancer early detection test.
“Over the past five years, we’ve had the privilege of growing our practice, building meaningful relationships, and working alongside an amazing community,” says Chrysanthi Kazantzis, ND, MS, and owner and founder of Anasa Personalized Medicine. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you while bringing together the professionals, partners, patients and friends who have been part of our journey. We can’t wait to celebrate this special milestone with you!”
For more information or to make an appointment, call 401-270-1742 or visit AnasaMedicine.com. RSVP for the special event by April 20 at tinyurl.com/Anasa5. See ad, page 19 and Resource Guide, page 36.
Dr. Brenda Bithoney, Dr. Chrysanthi Kazantzis, Dr. Noelle Cardarelli, Dr. Darien Lesicko
Empowerment Factory Holds Annual Fundraiser in Pawtucket
The Empowerment Factory, a community nonprofit dedicated to empowering children with the skills they need to lead happier and healthier lives since 2014, will host its annual fundraising event entitled Meet Me at The MET from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on May 6 at The MET in the Hope Artiste Village, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with local food, fun, raffles, and live music from The New Providence Big Band.
“The best investment of time and treasure is in our youth,” says revered business leader Cheryl Merchant, the chair of the event and a longtime supporter of the organization’s work in the community, especially in assisting local, low-income families. “That is why I support The Empowerment Factory. It works every day to ensure our young people are happy, healthy and empowered. The work The Empowerment Factory does for children’s mental and emotional well-being is making a tremendous impact on young lives.”
In addition to a raffle at the event, an online auction will open on March 31 for supporters to bid on weekend getaways, local designer items, theatre tickets and more.
The Empowerment Factory provides programming and events for elementary students primarily in Pawtucket, Central Falls and Providence. Its unique approach to supporting at-risk students is achieved through accessible enrichment programming that blends social emotional learning, art, literacy and environmental education to engage children in learning. In its 12-year history, the organization has provided more than 10,000 youth with free community programming to place them on a positive learning trajectory.
Cost: $50. Location: 1005 Main St., Pawtucket. For more information or to obtain tickets, call 401-365-1010, email CKeig@EmpowermentFactory.org or visit EmpowermentFactory.org. See ad, page 3.
Sensory Trust-Based Yoga Therapy
• For women navigating body shame, trauma, startle response, sensory sensitivity, or disconnection from breath/voice
• Learn how a belly dance coin scarf can help rebuild self-trust and safety
• Explore integrative movement to support focus, coordination, and learning readiness
• Handwrite for clarity, compassion, and embodied insight (781) 588-2288
Photos by Jailene
De La Cruz
Singing Bowls To Soothe Anxiety
A 2023 study published in the European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education compared the anxiety-relieving effects of a Tibetan singing bowl sound-based treatment to a progressive muscle-relaxation session that involves tensing and releasing muscles. A third control group did not receive any treatment.Fifty adults experiencing high anxiety without a diagnosed anxiety disorder were randomly assigned to one of the three groups.
Before and during each 45-minute session, the researchers monitored each participant’s heart rate variability (HRV) and brain wave patterns, and they also collected selfreported anxiety assessments. The singing bowl group showed the strongest physiological signs of relaxation, including brain activity associated with calmness and increased HRV, which indicates the body is in a relaxed, restorative state. Both the singing bowl and musclerelaxation groups reported feeling less anxious than the control group, but the singing bowl group experienced the biggest reduction in self-reported anxiety. The study suggests that even one short session with a Tibetan singing bowl can create measurable psychological and physical relaxation.
Retreat Spotlight
Kickstart Your Dreams Retreat Combines Personal Growth and Adventure
Benjamin Blackett, a life mastery consultant and transformational retreat leader, will host the Kickstart Your Dreams Retreat from May 13 through 20, at a private villa in Cassis, France. The eight-day immersive experience is designed for individuals seeking greater clarity, purpose and balance in their personal and professional lives.
Participants will take part in guided workshops, meditation and personal growth sessions focused on practical tools for turning life goals into achievable plans. The retreat also includes outdoor adventures such as stand-up paddleboarding in the Mediterranean, hiking in Calanques National Park and TranscenDance classes, along with opportunities to experience the culture, cuisine and natural beauty of southern France.
Blackett is the founder of A Creative Healing Place and works primarily with women ages 30 to 55 that feel stuck in relationships or their professional lives. A life mastery consultant, TranscenDance facilitator and transformational retreat leader, Blackett offers workshops, personalized coaching and transformational retreats designed to help people align their goals with meaningful action. Drawing on years of experience guiding personal development programs, he works with individuals seeking greater freedom, fulfillment and success while creating lives that reflect their values and passions.
Call 401-885-2008 or visit bit.ly/Benjamin_Calendly to set up a Love Your Life session, chat with Blackett about the retreat or reserve one’s space. For additional information, visit ACreativeHealingPlace.com. See ad, page 9 and Resource Guide, page 33.
Natural Skincare Recipes
by Natural Awakenings staff
Sustainable skin care is achievable without costly products or lengthy routines. Creating quick, easy and affordable formulas at home reduces our reliance on single-use plastics, petroleum-derived agents, irritating alcohol and other harsh chemicals found in many store-bought items. By storing them in glass containers and buying ingredients at bulk-refill stores, wasteful packaging can be virtually eliminated.
DIY scrubs, facial masks, bath crystals, moisturizers and toners are made with simple pantry ingredients such as oats, honey, sea salt and olive oil, which are packed with antioxidants and antiinflammatory properties. Applied topically, aloe vera gel from a houseplant effectively treats burns and soothes
chronic conditions like rosacea. Two specialized ingredients with beneficial properties are fractionated coconut oil, which is processed to be clear, colorless, long-lasting and always liquid, regardless of temperature; and pure culinary rosewater made by simmering rose petals.
Even with natural ingredients, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends doing a patch test on an inside arm. Leave the product on for as long as it would be used on the face, monitoring for swelling, redness or itching.
Vanilla Sugar Scrub: Combine one-third cup brown sugar, one-quarter cup olive oil or fractionated coconut oil and one-half teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract. Store the mixture in a small jar and use one
teaspoon at a time to exfoliate the skin, applying gentle, circular motions by hand, then rinsing with warm water.
Soothing Oatmeal Mask: In a blender, pulse one-half cup rolled oats into a fine powder. In a bowl, combine with one tablespoon honey, one tablespoon olive oil and two teaspoons warm water until it thickens into a creamy paste. Gently massage onto a dampened face and leave on five to 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
Fragrant Bath Salts: Combine three cups Epsom salt, one-and-a-half cups sea salt or Himalayan pink salt, one-half cup baking soda and 20 drops of one or more essential oils such as pine needle, rose, lavender or eucalyptus. The yield is enough for five to 10 baths; keep in a glass jar for up to six months. Add one-half to one cup to the bath. Can also be used for a foot spa.
Rosewater Facial Toner or Spritzer: Pure culinary rosewater can be a gentle toner that hydrates, soothes, controls excess oil and tightens pores. Apply straight from the bottle with a soaked cotton ball. May also be refrigerated in a spray bottle for a refreshing facial spritz.
Lip Balms: For cracked lips, apply a thin layer of raw honey overnight for its hydrating and antibacterial benefits. Other soothing ingredients that can be used as needed throughout the day are aloe vera and coconut oil.
Healing from the inside out Body
• Mind
• Holy Fire Reiki
• God Centered & Divinely Guided Healing Energy
• Sessions available virtually and in person
• Guided through prayer
• Spirit
• Expressive arts, journaling and meditation
• Healing and Manifestation
• Guided alongside Equine Therapy
• Retreats
Martinha Isabel Javid 401-206-1451
“Energy with its infinite wisdom goes to the place in the body that requires healing.”
Reducing Stress With Personalized Financial Planning
by Wendy Nadherny Fachon
“Financial well-being is inseparable from emotional, mental and even physical health,” says John Gautreaux, ChFC, advisor with Independence Financial Partners (INDFP), in Warwick, Rhode Island. “With over 25 years of helping clients manage their finances, I understand how deeply my work supports whole-person wellness. Money worries can quietly erode health. When those worries ease, people sleep better, think more clearly, and feel more grounded.” Supporting this kind of balance is Gautreaux’s mission.
At the heart of his practice is trust. “When clients know I’m looking out for them, they experience a level of calm that carries into every part of their lives. Regular conversations about their investments and retirement plans do more than keep them informed. Our conversations create clarity, confidence and a sense of control.”
Before starting his practice, Gautreaux worked in business banking, serving local, family-owned companies. As the banking industry went through rapid consolidation, he began to question his long-term future. After a lot of reflection, he took a leap of faith in August 2001 and joined the office he is still with today. The firm was already a well-established, supportive environment, so it was an ideal place for Gautreaux to begin his next chapter.
A few weeks into his new career, 9/11 happened, and that moment changed everything, both personally and professionally. It was a powerful reminder of how quickly life can shift, and how deeply
family, relationships and legacy matter. “Money is important,” states Gautreaux, “but it’s only one part of a much bigger picture. Those early years shaped the way I work with clients today: with perspective, gratitude and a commitment to helping people build financial lives that support what truly matters.”
The most rewarding part of Gautreaux’s work is the time he spends truly connecting with his clients. He never wants anyone to feel rushed. Unhurried conversations give clients space to talk about their families, their health and what’s
John Gautreaux, ChFC
unfolding in their lives—not just their investments. Gautreaux has learned that financial decisions are always intertwined with the things people care about most.
“I’m especially fulfilled when I can help someone step confidently into retirement,” explains Gautreaux. “Leaving a steady paycheck behind can feel unsettling, and creating a reliable, stress-free income plan is one of the most meaningful ways I support my clients. Watching that anxiety lift—and seeing people embrace the next chapter of their lives with clarity and calm—is incredibly gratifying.”
INDFP’s practice is distinguished by the level of personal attention every client receives. Gautreaux wants each client to feel like a “big fish in my pond”—known, valued, and genuinely cared for. This high-touch approach means meeting with clients two to four times each year. It’s a concierge-level practice that doesn’t cost more, but feels like it should.
Clients have unlimited access to INDFP’s knowledgeable team members for the questions and decisions that matter most in their lives. The internal team works hard to build and maintain customized portfolios that meet each client’s needs. An external team, comprised of trusted accountants, tax attorneys, estate planning attorneys and insurance experts, provides additional expert support. As an avid networker, Gautreaux has developed a wide range of professional relationships and referral sources.
Gautreaux sums up his approach by saying, “We take the time to understand their families, their goals and the nuances of their financial world. I’ve helped many clients retire with peace of mind, and that reduction in financial stress is a meaningful form of self-care.”
Location: 935 Jefferson Blvd., Ste. 2000, Warwick, RI.
To set up an appointment, call 401-732-4800 or email
JGautreaux@indfp.com. For more information and important disclosures, scan the QR code or visit IndependenceFP.net. See ad, page 7 and Resource Guide, page 34.
Wendy Nadherny Fachon is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.
Acupuncturists
Breathing Retraining
Chiropractors
Colon Hydrotherapy
Counseling
Craniosacral Therapy
Cryotherapy
Diet & Nutrition
Endocrinology
Functional Medicine
Health Coaches
Hearing Aids
Hormone Health
Infrared Sauna
IV Therapy
Leg Compression Massage System
Lymphatic Drainage
Massage
Medical Aesthetics
Nutritional Response Testing
Orthotics
Pelvic Floor PT
Peptides
Personal Trainers
Physical Therapy
Pilates
Pre and Post Surgery Therapy
Reiki
Salt Caves
Shockwave Therapy
Skin Products
Soft Tissue Manipulation
Sound Healing
Spas
Stem Cell Patches
Stretching and Recovery Bodywork
Vibroacoustic Bed
Vitamins & Supplements
It Takes a Circle
Building Greener Lives Together
by Hannah Tytus
In nature, nothing stands alone. Permaculture design—the art of creating sustainable landscapes— mirrors this by building resilience through integration rather than separation. It organizes life into “zones” that circle outward from the home to the wider community.
Conservation efforts are likewise woven together when Earth-conscious individuals form circles of community that grow and reach, stretching their tendrils to interweave with other circles, strengthening the protective, nourishing roots of homegrown actions.
Cultivating a Better Future
Working directly with permaculture, Brandi Mack strives to spark collective change and build lasting legacies of justice and well-being. Influenced by
her grandfather, who farmed the fertile soils of Oakland, California, she is a holistic health educator, permaculture designer and co-founder of The Butterfly Movement. Describing the work of this nonprofit, she explains, “We focus on cultivating sovereignty, healing and personal development through land, food and art for Black women and girls.”
“My grandfather said, ‘If you build the soil, you can grow anything,’” Mack recalls. “We facilitate spaces for Black youth and their mothers to reconnect with the land through gardening, learning about food as medicine and reclaiming a relationship with the natural world. Our focus is on our beloved sisterhood—the feminine—as Black women and girls. If we can elevate that, the world will elevate. That is justice.”
Mack envisions the collective potential of the next generation, knowing that they have gifts to share. She has raised
her daughters by example, teaching them that it is okay to experiment and grow, and she also encourages older generations to let go of antiquated narratives and let the youth lead.
Regenerating What Is Good
Marvin Hayes is a spoken word artist and executive director of the Baltimore Compost Collective. When he founded this youth-led initiative 11 years ago, he wanted to address what is known as the “sacrifice zone” of waste incineration that blew pollutants all over South Baltimore, threatening the health of his community. Research published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health suggests that living near waste incineration facilities is associated with higher risks of certain cancers, birth defects and other negative health outcomes. In the United States, such health burdens are not evenly distributed because 80 percent of municipal solid waste incinerators are located in communities where more than a quarter of residents identify as people of color, live below the federal poverty line, or both.
“The wind doesn’t segregate or discriminate,” says Hayes, noting that air pollution from sacrifice zones blows equally to all neighborhoods, becoming a collective public health concern. Today, he serves 400 households and diverts 2,000 pounds of weekly waste from the incinerator. He uses his business to improve public health, educate local youth about entrepreneurship and advocate for environmental justice in the community. Instead of going to a trash incinerator, household waste can become an agent of regeneration. According to Hayes, composting nourishes nutrient-depleted soil, making it excellent “black gold” for growing food. It also remediates soil that may be contaminated with lead or other metals and diverts waste from airpolluting incinerators, while providing an opportunity for the community to come together, he explains.
Traveling Lightly
“Composting is critical, because when food ends up in a landfill, it chemically degrades differently than it would in a compost pile, producing methane gas that is 28 times worse than CO2,” says Samuel McMullen, co-founder of ZeroWaste.org alongside his sister, Lydia McMullen-Laird. “The hardest thing to do in living a zero-waste lifestyle is addressing food and food packaging,” he shares, adding that one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions are linked to the making, transport and refrigeration of food.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, food waste is the number one component in landfills, accounting for one-quarter of their mass. The average American sends approximately 350 pounds of food waste to the landfill each year, with a family of four losing $1,500 annually to uneaten food, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
To address this issue through prevention, McMullen runs the Zero Waste Challenge—an invitation to produce as little waste as possible for a
week, while reflecting on the garbage created. On Earth Day, a similar challenge can be accessed virtually from anywhere in the world at ZeroWaste.org
“Learning follows action. Take action first,” advises McMullen, who sees zero-waste habit-building as a practical entry point for broader change. Holding corporations accountable for climate change and focusing only on institutions to make a difference can make people feel powerless, he observes. By tracking their trash, choosing reusables and making small sustainable swaps, individuals can begin to build tangible skills for activism efforts in systems change.
“The beauty of the [Zero Waste] Challenge is that you confront your own waste footprint,” McMullen says, adding that participants are invited to examine their trash from a place of curiosity, rather than criticism. “It’s easy to cut your waste in half. The last 10 percent is very challenging, but that’s okay. The goal is progress, not perfection.”
McMullen relates that even eating at a restaurant can be an opportunity to practice zero-waste principles by bringing a reusable container and bag for leftovers to reduce single-use packaging and opening playful dialogue with restaurant staff to make a game of reducing waste throughout the meal. “Don’t be annoying about it,” he quips, noting that reducing our personal waste footprint is secondary to building a social culture of sustainability and teamwork. “The main function is to build awareness with other people—to create common ground and to show that there is another way.”
Dentistry that Nurtures Body, Mind & Spirit
With advanced skills, integrative therapies, and compassionate care, Dr. Iontcheva-Baremhi elevates oral health into whole-body wellness.
ADVANCED BIOLOGICAL & INTEGRATIVE DENTAL CARE
• Integrative periodontal medicine
• Zirconia solutions for titanium implants and root-canal–treated teeth
• Mercury-free and metal-free dentistry
• TMJ and TMD biological treatments
• Head and neck pain management
Schedule your visit today!
• Restorative and cosmetic dentistry
• Nutrition and detoxification programs
• Laser-assisted dental procedures
• Ozone therapy
• Energy treatments (hands-on and technology assisted)
1842 Beacon St. Suite 305 • Brookline MA BostonDentalWellness.com
Sharing Stewardship
For three years, Jen Myers, Ph.D., has called the EcoVillage at Ithaca (EVI) home. This upstate New York community is designed to be socially, culturally, economically and ecologically sustainable, integrating human life harmoniously with nature. Members rely on renewable energy, shared spaces, local food production and pooled resources to make sustainable living feasible.
According to Myers, EVI shares 175 acres of land—far more than a single
homeowner could handle—including farms, forests and scenic natural spaces that are diligently stewarded by community members. Since its modest 30-household beginnings in the 1990s, it has grown into a lively community of 100 households. Living in community promotes sustainability by reducing individual environmental footprints and encouraging collaborative eco-friendly practices.
“I live in a net zero home, and it’s really rewarding having the
infrastructure to make sustainable living easy,” says Myers, project director of the Thrive Ithaca EcoVillage Education Center. “I don’t have to do as much consuming as I would as an individual running a household in a typical suburban neighborhood.” Lawnmowers, playground equipment, compost bins and more are all shared and enjoyed together.
Myers likes to highlight the recreational opportunities available at EVI, including hiking trails and ponds for swimming and ice skating, as well as EVI’s communal dining spaces that make togetherness easy. The community also models multi-generational sustainability. “It is such a joy to know I am modeling conservation behaviors in my household with my daughter,” she says.
Everyone at EVI shares leadership responsibilities, meeting monthly to make decisions on critical issues. Residents commit two to four hours a week to facilitate the community, contributing based on their strengths
Dr. Anissa Boudreau, D.C.
Dr. Victoria E. Malchar, D.C., CCSP, ABAAHP
in areas like administration, cooking, gardening, compost management and recycling. Myers appreciates this skill sharing, saying, “I’ve been so pleasantly surprised with how much value living in community brings to my life.”
Building a Resilient Culture
Sustainability is not a checklist but a culture shaped by what we normalize and celebrate. McMullen urges joyful modeling of alternatives, reminding us that “your actions are not really about you.” Visible practices—solar panels, reusable mugs, composting—ripple outward and shift norms over time. Myers calls this “ground-up design,” a liminal space where communities create the world they want by sharing resources and celebrating seasonal food, redistributing power and reducing isolation. Hayes centers youth leadership, cultivating agency and business skills in food systems so that youth are equipped to shape their own futures.
Embracing Life’s Reciprocity
Drawing from permaculture’s lessons, Mack says, “The soil is loyal. When you study permaculture, you are reminded that we are all connected. The only way we’re going to fix the planet is by remembering we are connected. When you know you’re doing something that affects someone else, you’ll stay committed. The reality
is we are one species on a planet in the middle of the universe. We learn everything from nature. We are nature. It’s important for us to understand right now that we go fast alone and far together.”
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring cultural underpinnings of health.
The EcoVillage at Ithaca bustles with collective husbandry.
Spring Bowl Inspirations
Sustainable, Delicious and Flexible
by Maya Whitman
Food bowls are popular because of their vibrant versatility, inventive flavor combinations and health-conscious appeal. Served warm or cold, they begin with a base of grains, salad greens or broths, followed by layers of veggies, fresh herbs and protein sources, then finished with a drizzle of flavorful sauce. Assembling these well-balanced, nourishing meals offers an opportunity to practice mindfulness, creativity and even joy, making it a truly multi-layered experience for the mind, body and soul.
Sustainable Eats
Spring enables us to add another enriching layer to the experience with sustainable, plant-forward bowls that celebrate local, in-season produce— reducing shipping and supporting the local economy. Fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils require less land, water and energy to produce than meat and dairy. Weekend trips to farmers markets become extra special with the arrival of annual delicacies like garlic scapes, ramps (wild leeks) and earthy mushrooms such as morels and porcinis.
Making spring bowls throughout the week is also a great way to minimize food waste by incorporating peels to make broth, repurposing leftovers and buying grains and other pantry staples in bulk with minimal plastic packaging. To save time, grains and beans can be cooked once a week and used, as needed, in a variety of bowl combinations.
The Basics
“Thoughtful choices—both in what we eat and how we shop—help nourish our bodies and our communities,” says Gwen Eberly, a chef and instructor at Zest Cooking School, in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Her favorite bowls feature a foundational layer of leafy greens like spinach or arugula, followed by crunchy textures such as radishes, carrots, sprouts and microgreens, and a layer of crispy tofu for the protein. Additional flavors may include roasted vegetables (asparagus) and fresh notes (snap peas or green onions).
“After winter, many people naturally want meals that feel energizing, colorful and lighter, which is why plant-based meals are so great,” says Annemarie Ranallo, the owner of Forest Greens Juice Bar, in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Some of her favorite ingredients for spring bowls are leafy greens, roasted or fresh vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, cucumbers and tomatoes, as well as plant-based proteins like chickpeas and lentils. She underscores the importance of including different textures in a bowl by combining something crunchy, something creamy and something fresh.
Part of the fun of creating a spring bowl is discovering which flavors and textures pair well. Gluten-free options like quinoa, kasha (buckwheat), wild rice and amaranth make any bowl satisfying without being heavy, and they are especially delicious with sautéed mushrooms, roasted eggplant or white beans. Lentils serve to accentuate the earthy depth of oven-roasted root vegetables like rainbow carrots and beets.
5PH/shutterstock
Savory bowls embellished with creamy dressings are wonderful for lunch and dinner, but the introduction of sweetness with layers of yogurt, fruit, nut butters and crunchy seeds opens up possibilities for dessert and breakfast.
Sauce Magic
Eberly notes that a good, homemade sauce can tie a bowl together. Her favorites include sesame-ginger, lemon tahini, parsley-mint, chive yogurt and zesty lime-cilantro. “A well-chosen dressing can redefine familiar plantbased ingredients, steering flavors toward whatever you’re craving that day—bright and citrusy, earthy and rich, or fresh and herby,” she explains.
Homemade dressings can be whipped up in minutes, offering wonderful flavor without excessive sodium or packaging waste. Spring bowls become memorable experiences with citrus vinaigrettes or creamy sauces featuring vegan mayo or plain yogurt and spicy wasabi, Dijon mustard or horseradish. Conjuring
exotic sauces is easy with ingredients like tahini, miso paste, ground peanuts, coconut milk and spices. Bowls also wake up in the presence of robust herbs like cilantro, parsley, mint and basil.
Finishing Touches
Championing the element of surprise, Eberly recommends textural finishes like sesame or pumpkin seeds, peanuts, sprouts or kale chips. These garnishes add a final burst of flavor, taking a meal over the top. Ranallo,
on the other hand, cautions against adding too many competing flavors. For her, simplicity is the key. Whether embellished or straightforward, the answer lies in personal preference and experimentation. Spring is the time to embrace our creative side and build a balanced, one-bowl meal that mixes textures and flavors to our heart’s (and tastebuds’) content.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Dr. Brenda Bithoney, ND (Dr. B)
Dr. Darien Lesicko, ND (Dr. L)
Dr. Chrysanthi Kazantzis, ND, MS (Dr. Kaz)
Dr. Noelle Cardarelli, ND, DAc
SPRING COUSCOUS BOWL WITH AVOCADO-DILL DRESSING
This hearty vegan meal for lunch or dinner includes bright flavors, cool and warm temperature experiences and a protein-packed, creamy dressing.
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
DRESSING:
1 ripe avocado, scooped out ½ 16-oz package of tofu, drained well
1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
1 Tbsp tamari
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp water
1 large sprig of fresh dill
BOWL:
3 cups cooked plain couscous
¼ can black beans, drained and rinsed
Small handful of fresh raw dandelion greens, chopped 2 scallions, finely chopped
1 medium raw zucchini, shredded
1 medium raw carrot, shredded
2 medium radishes, shredded
A few slices of raw red onion (optional)
To make the dressing, combine the avocado, drained tofu, maple syrup, tamari, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, water and dill in a blender and mix until smooth and creamy. Cover and place in the refrigerator until serving.
Cook the couscous according to the label instructions.
To assemble, divide the warm, cooked couscous among four bowls. Cover the couscous with black beans, followed by scallions and dandelion greens. Add a layer of shredded zucchini on one side of the bowl, followed by a layer of shredded carrot on the opposite side. Add shredded radishes down the middle, between the zucchini and the carrot. Top with sliced red onion (optional). Drizzle generously with the creamy avocadodill dressing. Serve immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
SPRING AMBROSIA BOWL
YIELD: 1 SERVING
¾ cup unsweetened dairy or plant-based yogurt
1 Tbsp whole golden flaxseeds or 1 Tbsp ground regular flaxseeds
⅓ cup fresh or unsweetened canned pineapple chunks
Small handful of golden raisins
1-2 dried Calimyrna (Turkish) figs, chopped
1 Tbsp shelled pistachios (halves or pieces; can be substituted with pecans)
¼ cup unsweetened dried coconut chips or flakes, toasted or untoasted
1 tsp pure maple syrup or honey
1 tsp flower pollen (bee pollen)
Spoon dairy or plant-based yogurt into a cereal-sized bowl. Sprinkle flaxseeds over yogurt. Add a layer of pineapple chunks, then a layer of golden raisins and chopped figs. Top with pistachios or pecans and coconut before drizzling with maple syrup or honey. Sprinkle flower pollen on top and serve immediately.
Note: Those suffering from moderate-to-severe seasonal allergies should omit the flower pollen.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
FALAFEL SPRING BOWLS
YIELD: 3 TO 4 SERVINGS
1 garlic clove
¼ cup red onion, roughly chopped
⅓ cup fresh cilantro leaves
⅓ cup fresh parsley leaves
1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 egg
¾ cup breadcrumbs (divided)
½ tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp ground coriander seeds
½ tsp salt
Preheat the oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
In a food processor, finely chop the garlic by pulsing. Add the onion, cilantro and parsley and process until minced. Add the chickpeas and process to form a coarse dough. Add the egg, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander and salt. Pulse until combined.
Shape the mixture into small patties using about 1 tablespoon each. Coat the patties with the remaining breadcrumbs, pressing each side into the crumbs so they stick.
Place the falafel patties on the baking sheet and bake until golden brown, approximately 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through the baking time.
Layer a bowl with any cooked grain of choice and/or various spring greens, followed by a few falafels. Top with Sesame Ginger Dressing, Lemon-Tahini Dressing or a favorite homemade dressing.
SESAME GINGER DRESSING FOR FALAFEL SPRING BOWLS
4 Tbsp rice vinegar
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp chili sauce
1 tsp maple syrup
1 Tbsp freshly grated ginger
2 Tbsp sesame oil
⅓ cup olive oil
Place all ingredients in a jar and shake well before each use. Keep any remaining dressing in the refrigerator.
LEMON-TAHINI DRESSING FOR SPRING BOWL FALAFELS
1 garlic clove
¼ cup tahini
2 Tbsp lemon juice
3 Tbsp nutritional yeast
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp water
1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
½ tsp salt
In a food processor, pulse the garlic to mince. Add the tahini, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, oil, water, maple syrup and salt and process until smooth. Place any remaining dressing in a jar and refrigerate.
Recipe courtesy of chef Gwen Eberly.
Beans The Most Underrated Superfood
by Alora Frederick, RDN, LDN
If there’s one food group that nutrition professionals wish people ate more of, it’s beans. Not greens powders, not exotic berries shipped from across the world, just humble beans. Lentils, chickpeas, black beans and kidney beans may not have flashy marketing campaigns, but from a nutrition perspective they’re one of the most powerful foods we can put on our plates. Beans provide something modern diets lack: fiber. A single cup of cooked beans provides about 12 to 16 grams of fiber. That’s nearly half of the daily amount adults should aim for. Fiber isn’t just about bowel regularity and digestion. It plays a vital role in blood sugar balance, cholesterol levels and appetite regulation. Diets rich in fiber are consistently linked to lower risks of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer, as well as lower rates of anxiety, depression and even acne.
Beans are particularly special because of the type of fiber they contain: soluble fiber. It forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, helping slow carbohydrate absorption and preventing sharp blood sugar spikes after meals. Soluble fiber also binds to cholesterol in the gut and helps remove it from the body, which can contribute to lower LDL cholesterol levels over time.
Perhaps the most compelling argument for beans comes from global dietary patterns associated with longevity. In many regions where people live long, healthy lives, beans are a daily staple. They show up in Mediterranean lentil soups, Latin American black bean dishes and simple stewed chickpeas across the Middle East. Beans also nourish the trillions of microbes that make up the gut microbiome. Many of the carbohydrates in beans are resistant to digestion in the small intestine and instead travel to the colon, where beneficial bacteria ferment them. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids like butyrate. Short-chain fatty
acids are essential compounds that strengthen the intestinal lining and help regulate inflammation in the body. For many individuals the gut microbiome is a neglected part of the body.
Despite their benefits, beans are often overlooked because of concerns about bloating. The good news is that the gut microbiome adapts, and quickly, too. When beans or any highfiber food is introduced gradually, the GI tract adjusts within a couple of weeks. Start with a very small serving a few times per week and increase from there. The more fiber a gut is exposed to regularly, the more it can tolerate it. For greater tolerance of beans, rinse canned beans thoroughly, soak dried beans before cooking and pressure cook the beans if possible. When paired with herbs like cumin or ginger, they are also easier to digest. Some exceptions to bean tolerance can occur. If an underlying gut imbalance like SIBO or dysbiosis is present, tolerance of certain beans won’t happen until the
the kitchen. They can anchor soups, bulk up salads, replace meat in tacos or blend seamlessly into dips and spreads. For busy households that want to eat well on a budget, beans are essential.
Alora Frederick, RDN, LDN, is an integrative and functional dietitian in Waltham, MA. She is currently accepting new patients at Johnson Compounding and Wellness for virtual nutrition appointments. Schedule a free, 15-minute, introductory call at NaturalCompounder.com/Alora. See ad, page 25 and Resource Guide, page 34.
From Bite to Balance
A Holistic Dental Approach to Vertigo
by Iveta Ioncheva-Barehmi, DMD, MS, DSc
Vertigo occurs when a person feels as if they or the room are spinning or swaying, even while remaining still. It can cause nausea, vomiting, sweating, difficulty walking or standing, and a sensation that balance is “off.”
The condition is not the simple dizziness caused by standing up quickly or low blood pressure. Vertigo is a symptom related to the vestibular system, which includes the brain, inner ear, cochlear nerve and other structures responsible for balance, hearing, eye movements and posture.
Common causes include BPPV (tiny crystals in the inner ear that move out of place), Ménière’s disease (excessive fluid in the ear), vestibular neuritis (inflammation of a balance nerve, often caused by a virus), certain medications such as aspirin, and exposure to heavy metals and chemicals, most often mercury.
How Dentistry and Oral Health Can Be Connected to Vertigo
Oral infections—such as tooth abscesses, root canal failures, fractured teeth, sinus infections, severe periodontitis or viral infections, especially herpes—can spread through anatomical pathways like the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear and throat. This may trigger or worsen inner ear infections such as vestibular neuritis.
Vestibular neuritis is inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which plays a key role in balance and spatial orientation. Patients with vertigo or vestibular neuritis should inform their dentist before treatment, as procedures can sometimes aggravate symptoms. There is also a link between dental work and BPPV, which can complicate recovery from vestibular neuritis.
Dental Work and Vertigo
Patients should tell their dentist about any history of vertigo before procedures. Dental visits can sometimes trigger symptoms,
particularly if a patient lies back for long periods or turns their head at an angle.
Making a Comfortable Dental Visit Possible
• Schedule appointments at times of day when symptoms are least pronounced
• Request short appointments or breaks during long procedures
• Keep the head slightly raised and straight
• Bring a small pillow or blanket for comfort
• Ask for quiet surroundings and avoid strong scents (perfumes, candles, air fresheners)
• Avoid dental materials with strong smells or tastes
• Bring a friend or family member if possible
• Reschedule if experiencing cold sores or take antiviral medication beforehand
Dental procedures or instruments can sometimes dislodge the tiny balance crystals in the inner ear. If spinning or dizziness occurs afterward, patients should see a doctor or physical therapist. Special head exercises, such as the Epley or Semont maneuvers, can help reposition the crystals under professional guidance, and medication or supplements may be prescribed.
Jaw Problems and Vertigo
Teeth grinding or clenching, often related to stress, can affect the TMJ, the jaw joint near the ear. TMJ issues can cause ear pain, tinnitus, dizziness or vertigo. Stress management, night guards, low-level laser therapy, ozone treatment or jaw relaxation techniques may help.
Mercury and Vertigo
Mercury, a heavy metal, can affect the brain and nervous system. Exposure may come from contaminated fish, dental amalgam fillings or occupational contact. Symptoms of mercury toxicity may include memory problems, anxiety, depression, confusion, dizziness, vertigo, or tingling and numbness in the hands and feet.
Mercury can bind to nerve tissue and travel to the brain, interfering with nerve signals and damaging protective myelin sheaths. It may also affect hormoneregulating glands. Studies have shown that mercury levels in the brain correlate with the number of amalgam fillings a patient has. Exposure to other metals, such as aluminum or lead, can intensify mercury’s effects.
Patients with vertigo should always inform their dentist, request accommodations for safety and comfort, and coordinate with both dental and medical professionals to determine causes and optimize treatment.
Iveta Ioncheva-Barehmi, DMD, MS, DSc, is the owner of Boston Dental Wellness, located at 1842 Beacon St., Ste. 305, in Brookline, MA. For more information or to make an appointment, call 617-868-1516, email iib@BostonDentalWellness.us or visit BostonDentalWellness.com. See ad, page 15 and Resource Guide, page 32.
JCW Enviro Hist and Nettles (caps & liquid)
Stay ahead of spring allergies with compounds like nettle, quercetin, bromelain, and NAC for balanced histamine support.
OUR WELLNESS STORE
• We offer a full range of nutritional supplements, natural products and homeopathic remedies.
• Dr. Gary Kracoff is a registered pharmacist with a doctorate in naturopathic medicine who provides in-depth consultation services at Johnson Compounding & Wellness.
• Alora Frederick, RDN is a functional and integrative registered dietitian who does in-depth nutrition and lifestyle consultations and accepts many insurance companies - some with NO COPAY!
• Call our wellness experts for a personalized immune supplement regimen for you!
• Now offering curbside, contactless pick - up
ALORA FREDERICK Integrative and Functional Dietitian GARY KRACOFF Registered Pharmacist and Naturopathic Doctor
Beyond Coping to Flourishing
Homeopathy and Flower Essences for Children and Adolescents
by Vandana Pitke, BHMS, MS, CCH
Children and adolescents today are not lacking information, activities or stimulation—but they often need more emotional regulation, nervous system balance and a greater sense of inner safety. Anxiety, emotional reactivity, sleep disturbances, fears, behavioral shifts and difficulty focusing are increasingly common, not because something is “wrong” with young people, but because their sensitive systems are under constant pressure.
Homeopathy and flower essences offer gentle, individualized ways to support children and adolescents at the emotional and nervous-system level—helping them move from coping to truly flourishing.
Why Emotional Imbalance Shows Up So Strongly in Children and Teens
Young nervous systems are still developing and are highly responsive to emotional stress, environmental changes,
trauma and overstimulation. When children or teens feel overwhelmed and unable to process experiences, emotional imbalance often expresses itself physically or behaviorally.
What may look like anxiety, defiance, withdrawal, restlessness or sleep issues is often the body’s attempt to regulate an overloaded system.
Both homeopathy and flower essences work by supporting the body and mind’s innate ability to rebalance, rather than suppressing emotions or behaviors.
How Homeopathy Supports Emotional and Mental Health
Homeopathy is a system of individualized medicine that looks at the whole child— emotional state, mental patterns, physical tendencies, reactions to stress and personal history. Remedies are selected based on how a child experiences and expresses imbalance, not simply on a diagnosis.
In children and adolescents, homeopathy can help by calming anxiety, fears, and emotional sensitivity; supporting emotional regulation and resilience; reducing stress-related physical complaints such as headaches, stomachaches or fatigue; improving sleep, focus and overall vitality; and helping process emotional trauma and prolonged stress.
Because homeopathic remedies are non-toxic and gentle, they work with a child’s natural healing response. Rather than forcing change, homeopathy helps restore balance from within—often resulting in calmer emotions, improved adaptability and better overall well-being.
Flower Essences: Emotional Nourishment for Growing Hearts
Flower essences work at a subtle yet powerful level, addressing emotional patterns that influence thoughts, behaviors and responses to life. They are especially helpful for children and teens that may struggle to articulate emotions, but clearly feel them deeply.
Each flower essence corresponds to a specific emotional state—such as fear, overwhelm, insecurity, grief or lack of confidence—and helps gently shift that state toward balance.
For children and adolescents, flower essences can help reduce anxiety, fears and heightened sensitivity; emotional overwhelm and stress; difficulty with transitions or change; low self-esteem and self-doubt; and emotional shutdown or mood swings.
Rather than suppressing emotions, flower essences help young people process them safely, allowing emotional growth without altering personality or dulling feelings.
Why These Modalities Work So Well for Young People
Children and adolescents respond particularly well to gentle therapies that respect their individuality. Both homeopathy and flower essences are non-toxic and safe for growing systems; support emotional balance without
labeling or medicating emotions; work alongside conventional care when needed; and encourage self-regulation rather than dependence.
As emotional balance improves, parents and caregivers often notice positive changes such as improved sleep, calmer behavior, better focus, increased confidence and a greater ability to handle stress.
Supporting Adolescents Through Emotional Pressure
Adolescence brings heightened emotional intensity, identity formation, and sensitivity to social and academic pressures. Homeopathy and flower essences provide supportive tools during this critical stage—helping teens regulate emotions, manage stress and develop inner stability.
By addressing emotional patterns such as perfectionism, fear of failure, comparison or emotional withdrawal, these modalities support teens in building resilience and self-trust—skills that serve them throughout life.
Helping Young People Flourish from the Inside Out
Flourishing does not mean the absence of challenges; it means having the inner resources to meet life with balance and confidence. By nourishing emotional health through homeopathy and flower essences, children and adolescents are supported at the deepest level—where lasting change begins.
When young minds and hearts are gently supported, they do more than cope. They grow, adapt and
flourish—emotionally, mentally, and physically.
Vandana Pitke is a certified homeopath and holistic wellness practitioner with 20-plus years of experience. She also incorporates flower essences in her practice and has helped thousands of her clients heal and achieve health goals. She teaches in-depth classes on flower essences and homeopathy for beginners each spring and fall. For more information, visit OmHomeopathy.com. See Resource Guide, page 34.
Home Sweet Sustainable Home
Strategies for Saving Money and the Planet
by Marlaina Donato
Adding eco-friendly elements to a home transforms it into a true sanctuary, yet many homeowners and renters feel shut out of the conversation when it centers around high-end remodels, expensive appliances or eco-luxury upgrades. Even the budget conscious have low-cost options that empower them to reclaim sustainability and slow climate change on their own terms.
“Behavioral adjustments are some of the most affordable changes people can make to green their homes. Many of these modifications can be made in a rental home, too,” says Marla Esser Cloos, a green-home coach in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and St. Louis, Missouri.
Approachable practices include using programmable thermostats that save energy; shopping in bulk to cut down on waste and plastic packaging; swapping out chemical cleaners and pesticides for effective, ecofriendly alternatives; and seasonal upkeep that extends the life of household materials and appliances. Many of these measures
actually save money. Teaming up with neighbors to share tools, join compost clubs or advance community solar programs turns environmental stewardship into an even more affordable and enjoyable endeavor that strengthens connections and underscores the power of collective action.
Energy Savers
“Small choices can have a big impact, and greening your home doesn’t have to break the bank. Some of the most affordable ways to make your home more sustainable involve reducing energy use and making smarter choices,” attests Annie Soulsby, a sustainability life coach in the United Kingdom.
The average home has many devices that sap energy unnecessarily, and unplugging computer equipment, game consoles, DVRs, coffeemakers, televisions and phone chargers when not in use can save up to 20 percent on the monthly electric bill. The U.S. Department of Energy also recommends using surge-protector power
strips with on/off switches to easily turn off a set of appliances without having to unplug anything.
Soulsby suggests switching from fossil-fuel heating systems that burn natural gas, oil, propane or coal to renewable solutions like electric heat pumps that transfer thermal energy using eco-friendly refrigerants, or green electricity plans that allow consumers to purchase renewable electricity (wind, solar or hydro) from their power supplier. She also champions group solar programs, such as solar cooperatives that help renters, homeowners and businesses access solar energy and receive electric bill credits without installing panels on their own roof, translating to reduced monthly costs without high, upfront investment.
Cloos recommends installing or replacing weatherstripping, exterior door sweeps and draft stoppers on all exterior doors and windows. Duck and Frost King brands of shrink film window insulation kits can also provide an extra air barrier. Caulk can be used around doors, windows and other exterior gaps and interior trim joints to reduce cold drafts, increase heat retention in the wintertime and improve energy efficiency year-round.
Sustainable Shifts
Sustainability also means stretching the lifespan of everyday items, but when replacements are unavoidable, Cloos suggests looking for certified labels: WaterSense-certified faucets, toilets or shower heads; Energy Star-certified appliances; and GreenGuard-certified paints for exterior or interior makeovers. She also recommends simple measures like turning off lights when leaving a
room to conserve energy and refraining from running the faucet while brushing teeth or washing hands to save water and lower water-heating costs.
A do-it-yourself mindset also minimizes consumerism. “Tool libraries work just like book libraries, but instead of novels, you can borrow tools, DIY equipment or sports gear,” explains Soulsby. “They solve the problem of owning rarely used items like an SDS [slotted drive system] drill for a bathroom project or a paddleboard for a weekend adventure. Borrow it, use it and return it in good condition.” Many U.S. cities maintain tool libraries through MakerSpace.com, community centers or nonprofits that can be located with a quick internet search.
For pest control without chemicals, Soulsby suggests sealing entry points, removing food and shelter sources, and keeping homes clean and dry. Pungent essential oils like citronella, peppermint and eucalyptus, as well as strong-smelling herbs such
as lavender, mint, basil and rosemary help deter pests naturally. Adding natural cedarwood chips or essential oils to wardrobes and closets can help to repel moths. Lining drawers and thresholds with cinnamon and cayenne, or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs, praying mantises and lacewings in the garden, can naturally control insects.
“We often place a barrier of First Saturday Lime around the outside of our home. Lime is an easy-to-use, environmentally friendly alternative to pesticides that is safe for children and pets when used as directed on the manufacturers’ package,” explains Cloos.
Seasonal initiatives like Veganuary, Plastic-Free July or NoMow May are great starting points to incorporate changes into everyday life. “The real power comes when you then carry these habits year-round,” says Soulsby. “Swap meat for plant-based options beyond just one month; extend plastic-free choices to every purchase decision; and rethink horticulture by letting your garden flourish naturally every day.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerAndWoodSmoke.com.
Candace Hartley/shutterstock
SCAN ME
Allergies and the Nervous System
Calming Herbs for Yearlong Resilience
by Hannah Tytus
Seasonal allergies are often framed as a localized immune problem— something that happens in the nose, sinuses or lungs. But holistic practitioners see them as a whole-body experience shaped by stress, nourishment and environment. Linda Conroy, a bioregional herbalist with more than three decades of experience, uses native medicinal plants in a three-tiered approach that focuses on prevention, tonification and support. Tonification aims to nourish, strengthen and restore balance to the body’s vital energy.
“You’re not going to take one herb and have it fix everything,” explains the founder of Moonwise Herbs. “You have to work on diet, lifestyle, relationships
and stress reduction. It has to be multilayered.” Rather than suppressing symptoms, Conroy works to strengthen the body’s baseline resilience so that when pollen counts rise or seasons shift, it is equipped to respond.
The Role of Stress
All parts of the body are interconnected. When the nervous system is stressed, other systems are affected. We see this with asthma, says Conroy, citing research that links prenatal and early-life stress to respiratory vulnerability later in childhood. “When someone’s respiratory system is in distress, we have to work with all the systems of the body to address it,” she explains.
A major player in immune system robustness is the endocrine system—a network of glands and organs that produce and release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions, including the stress response and mood. According to Conroy, hormonal imbalances can increase vulnerability. “Many people live their lives as if they are in danger all the time and this chronic alertness can make immune responses overactive,” she observes. “We also see a significant number of people with thyroid problems. When the pituitary or thyroid glands are weakened, people tend to be more reactive overall.”
To calm the nervous system, Conroy recommends a calcium-rich diet with ample leafy greens and dairy, as well as a long-steeped tea made with oatstraw— the dried green stalks and leaves of the oat plant, which is rich in calcium, magnesium and B vitamins. She also champions small rituals for stress relief such as always turning off the phone before bedtime or regularly enjoying a rosemary facial steam to rejuvenate the skin and feel restored. “Stay committed to something consistently,” she advises, recommending that people find their rhythm with their modalities of choice. Together, these practices reflect a holistic approach, relieving stress and improving allergy symptoms simultaneously, while building resilience year-round.
“Sleep, digestion and stress regulation form a feedback loop,” says Joanna Helms, founder of Mama Jo’s Sunshine Olezzo/shutterstock
Herbals. With more than 30 years of experience in Chinese, Western, Native American, Scottish, Unani-Tibb and Japanese herbalism, she defines her practice as a way to support the body in being the healer.
Helms recommends year-round herbal support to strengthen the body and reduce allergy vulnerability with calming herbs like oatstraw, lemon balm and holy basil. She also suggests regular exercise, adequate sleep, meditation, journaling and even talking with a friend. Evening rituals like massaging herbal salves into the feet before bed can calm the heart and settle the body.
Herbal Allies for Allergy Season
Conroy recommends nettle infusions, which she says have an antihistamine effect. Stronger than tea, infusions are
made by steeping one ounce of nettle in boiling water for four to eight hours, then straining. This savory medicine keeps for up to three days in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed warm or cold, sometimes added to soups or paired with miso. Nettle can be overly drying for individuals in arid climates. In such cases, Conroy suggests marshmallow root to soothe dry, irritated mucous membranes. Mullein is traditionally used to prevent or alleviate respiratory distress caused by colds and flu, and Conroy recommends it to strengthen the lungs. Mullein’s flavor profile pairs well with a sweetener of choice. Her favorite recipe combines warm mullein tea with steamed milk and maple syrup for a delicious herbal latte. Both experts celebrate the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of goldenrod, which has garnered a bad reputation when it is mistakenly associated with
the allergy-inducing ragweed. In fact, goldenrod relieves allergies. Conroy calls it a tonifier that supports the whole system, “helping dampen the body’s overreaction, easing symptoms and reducing the intensity of the allergic response.”
“Goldenrod is one of my favorites for drying things up, especially in the eyes,” says Helms, adding that people in arid climates may find it too drying. In such cases, she recommends mixing goldenrod with chrysanthemum or licorice for a harmonizing blend.
Locally Sourced Herbs
According to Conroy, “We will get way more benefit from plants that grow around us. Try to source herbs as close to home as possible. It’s a relationship. I don’t think of herbs as a drug or pill. These are my allies; they’re going to support me. We need to care about the plants, and they will care about us.”
Helms encourages her clients to grow their own herbs, observe them as they grow from season to season or even draw them in a field journal. Such practices that foster listening, meditation and relationship remind us that plants can be healing even when we do not ingest them.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring the cultural underpinnings of health.
Tatevosian Yana/shutterstock
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Sales@NaturalAwakeningsBoston.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
FIVE ELEMENT ACUPUNCTURE
Jo-Ann Sarro, D.Ac, Dipl.Ac
Five Harmony Health 655 Main St, Ste 214 East Greenwich, RI 02818
443-831-2347
FiveHarmonyHealth.com
Acupuncture is a wonderful way to heal and maintain good health. Whether from injury, releasing trauma and stresses of daily life or simply time to reset and restore. My focus is to help you achieve your life and health goals. BlueCross BlueShield provider. See ad, page 11.
HANNAH REDD ACUPUNCTURE
Hannah Redd, DA
Path 2 Harmony, 1182 Boston Neck Rd Narragansett, RI 02882
401-261-4316
HannahReddAcupuncture.com
Chinese- and Japanesestyle treatments utilizing gua sha, tui na, craniosacral therapy and cold laser.
Aesthetics & Wellness Studio
PARAGON BODY ART, LLC
1005 Main St, Ste 715C Pawtucket, RI 02860
401-662-7412
ParagonBodyArt.com
Our eclectic and creative professionals provide conscientious, ethical services including aesthetics, all-natural teeth whitening, red light therapy, ionic foot baths, PMU, corrective tattoos such as scar camouflage and saline lightening, artistic and henna tattoos, professional makeup applications, life-enrichment coaching and energy healing. Parties and classes offered.
Akashic Consulting
INTO THE AKASH WITH ASTRID! 401-617-8074
AstridMeijeruic@gmail.com rihha.org
Curious to learn how your other lifetimes are impacting your life? Ready to clear trauma, negative belief patterns, relationship dynamics, vows and soul contracts? Through consulting your Akashic Records, I facilitate the clearing of energies blocking your True Self, and coach you through conscious meaning—making to create the life you want.
Biological Dentistry
BIO DENTAL
Candida Castillo
2148 Mineral Spring Ave, North Providence, RI 02911
401-232-7777
SmileRI.com
Discover holistic dental care with Dr. Castillo at Bio Dental. Integrating advanced technology and natural healing, Dr. Castillo focuses on whole-body wellness through safe, biocompatible treatments. Experience a healthier smile and balanced life—where dentistry meets holistic healing. Book your consultation today. See ad, page 11.
Boston Dental Wellness provides biological, integrative dentistry that supports whole-body health. Offering advanced periodontal care, zirconia implants, ozone therapy, vitamin C protocols, regenerative treatments and a calm, anxiety-free experience, focused on natural healing and total wellness. See ad, page 15.
DENTISTRY
BY DR. DAVID
Amparo M. David, DMD
563 Main St Bolton, MA 01740 978-779-2888
BoltonDental.com
We look beyond our patients’ teeth in order to improve both their smiles and their quality of life. Our practice offers full preventive services: biological, holistic, functional dentistry, ozone therapy, reconstructive dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, periodontics, endodontics, dental sleep medicine, implant dentistry, in addition to TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders) therapy. See ad, page 27.
Chiropractic
CAMERON ROTH, DC
328 Cowesett Ave, Ste 7 West Warwick, RI 02893 401-615-5200
RothChiro@gmail.com
Our practice takes a holistic approach to medicine focusing on diagnosis and treatment of biomechanical conditions. We employ a hands-on approach utilizing adjustments, soft tissue mobilizations and modalities to promote healing throughout the body.
MALCHAR CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER
33 College Hill Rd, Bldg 30C Warwick, RI 02886 401-826-7600
MalcharWellness.com
MCWC offers a variety of services, which include chiropractic care, nutrition, homeopathy, total body modification, activator methodology, auto, sports and work injuries, applied kinesiology, contact reflex analysis and Graston technique. Dr. Malchar and Dr. Boudreau, as well as supporting staff, are here to support you along your wellness journey. See ad, page 16.
People need dreams,
there’s as much nourishment in ’em as food.
—Dorothy Gilman
MCARDLE CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER
Catherine McArdle, DC
Robert Sedlor, DC
2013 Plainfield Pike Johnston, RI 02919
401-383-3400
McArdleChiropractic.com
Family chiropractic practice offering holistic care to patients of all ages. Based on the initial evaluation, patients will be given a treatment plan which addresses ergonomics, exercise, stretching and nutrition in addition to their spinal alignment. See ad, page 27.
Benjamin Blackett is a multi- certified, International Life Mastery Consultant and motivational speaker. He helps people pull their dreams into their lives. His clients experience better health, deeper and more meaningful relationships, more satisfying careers, and expanded time and money freedom. You are invited to get to know him through his livestream “Morning Mindset Book Studies” on his Facebook page, A Creative Healing Place, Mon-Fri, 9:05-9:25am. See ad, page 9.
Cold Laser Therapy
HANNAH REDD ACUPUNCTURE
Hannah Redd, DA
Path 2 Harmony, 1182 Boston Neck Rd Narragansett, RI 02882 401-261-4316
HannahReddAcupuncture.com
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is very effective for pain management and healing. Utilizing red light and infrared light, our bodies ingest the light and healing is increased.
Colon Hydrotherapy
SOURCE COLON HYDROTHERAPY
Elizabeth Regal, I-ACT Certified Hydrotherapist Columbia, CT
860-634-7523
Info@SourceColonHydrotherapy.com
Colonics are a soothing way to promote hydration and elimination by natural peristalsis. A series of three sessions is the best way to start cleansing. FDA-approved, closed-system device. Sessions offered at Roots Natural Medical Center, in Columbia, CT.
Familyowned and -operated since 1960, we have evolved from a traditional pharmacy to a worldwide compounding and nutritional resource. Our unique one-on-one patient consultations produce a full understanding of your health needs. You, your physician and one of our compounding pharmacists work as partners to ensure that you will receive the best care possible.
JOHNSON COMPOUNDING AND WELLNESS
577 Main St Waltham, MA 02452
781-893-3870 • Fax: 781-899-1172
John@NaturalCompounder.com NaturalCompounder.com
JCW is the only sterile and non-sterile PCAB- accredited pharmacy in Massachusetts. In addition to our compounding service, we offer a full range of nutritional supplements, natural products, homeopathic remedies and home health care equipment. See ad, page 25.
Specializing in Craniosacral Therapy and Cupping. Treatments are deeply relaxing and restorative. Cupping releases tight muscles, and CST addresses issues with the nervous system. This combination is effective for headaches/migranes, TMJ disorder, neck/back pain, digestion and more.
Family Constellation Therapy
SOUL SPEAKS THERAPIES
Certified Clinical & Medical Hypnotherapist Family Constellation Practitioner 617-444-9236
Info@SoulSpeaksTherapies.com
SoulSpeaksTherapies.com
Break free from inherited emotional patterns and heal family dynamics through the powerful modality of Systemic Family Constellations. Offers a range of holistic therapies to empower you on your healing journey. Free 20min. consultation.
Financial Wellness
JOHN GAUTREAUX
Independence Financial Partners
401-691-4138
IndependenceFP.net
If you are seeking a comfortable retirement, look no further. John and his team can provide the guidance you need. For over two decades, John has been helping his clients achieve their goals. Contact John now for a no-cost consultation. See ad, page 7.
Frenectomy (Tongue/ Lip Tie Release)
DENTISTRY BY DR. DAVID
Amparo M. David, DMD
563 Main St, Bolton, MA 01740
978-779-2888
BoltonDental.com
Dr. David uses the latest technology available to diagnose and treat infants as well as children and adults. She has extensive training in the fields of functional release, airway dentistry and myofunctional therapy. See ad, page 27.
Functional Dietitian
ALORA FREDERICK, RDN
Johnson Compounding & Wellness
781-893-3870 x 149
Alora@NaturalCompounder.com
NaturalCompounder.com
Integrative and Functional Registered Dietitian who strives to motivate individuals on their health journey. Alora loves to help people feel their best and has a special interest in GI health and mental health (depression & anxiety). See ad, page 25.
Functional Medicine
UNLOCK WELLNESS CENTER
Tina Egbuiwe, FNP
888-778-8271
UnlockWellnessCenter.com
I use advanced testing to uncover the root causes of chronic illnesses like fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances and autoimmune conditions. This deeper insight helps me create personalized, natural care plans that restore balance, boost energy and support long-term healing without the guesswork.
A virtual Holistic Health Coaching Service that focuses on improving gut health, SIBO and detoxification by making changes to your daily habits and by integrating the best herbal supplements for your individual needs.
Nurture Holistic Wellness is dedicated to supporting your journey to well-being through holistic therapies like sound healing, meditation and bodywork. Our mission is to help you find balance, restore energy and enhance mental clarity in a peaceful, nurturing environment.
Holistic Physical Therapy
RESTORE PHYSICAL THERAPY
Dr. Amanda Zarriello, DPT 10 Worthington Rd Cranston, RI 02920
401-250-3060
www.RestorePTRI.com
Restore Physical Therapy helps active adults age stronger with holistic, one-on-one care. We uncover root causes, relieve pain and build resilience through hands-on treatment, digital support and personalized plans for long-term health, mobility and injury prevention. See ad, page 21.
Homeopathy
VANDANA PITKE
Om Homeopathy, It’s My Health Cumberland, RI 02864 401-573-3757
OmHomeopathy.com
With 16+ yrs experience in classical homeopathy, Vandana Pitke has helped many clients restore and achieve health. A certified classical homeopath, she looks at the clients from a holistic perspective focusing on mind, body and spirit. She also incorporates many other holistic modalities in her practice, which makes healing faster, better and from within when combined with homeopathy.
Spring will come and so will happiness. Hold on. Life will get warmer. —Anita Krizzan
Hormone Health
DEE DAVIDSON, FDN-P
Podcast: Confidently Balance Your Hormones
888-679-3815
Dee@ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com
ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com
Explore holistic hormone health solutions at our practice. Certified in hormone health, we address issues like hormone imbalance, infertility, thyroid, Type 2 diabetes and menopause. Tune in to our podcast, Confidently Balance Your Hormones, for expert insights.
Hypnotherapy
SOUL SYNERGY MEDICAL HYPNOTHERAPY
Certified Medical Hypnotherapist 617-444-9236
Info@SoulSynergyMedicalHypnotherapy.com
SoulSynergyMedicalHypnotherapy.com
Empowering your health and healing through hypnotherapy. With over 20 yrs’ experience, we empower healing through custom treatment plans designed to support your unique path to wellness. Support for chronic illnesses, stress and pain management, weight loss, smoking cessation, trauma. Free 20-min consultation.
Integrative Veterinary Medical Care
MASH MAIN ST ANIMAL SERVICES OF HOPKINTON
72 W Main St
Hopkinton, MA 01748
508-435-4077
MASHVet.com
A full-service integrative veterinary clinic offering caring and healthful options and modalities like acupuncture, functional nutrition, homeopathy, chiropractic, herbs, ozone therapy, surgery and dentistry. See ad, page 23.
Integrative Wellness Resources
IT’S MY HEALTH
Marie Bouvier-Newman
1099 Mendon Rd
Cumberland, RI 02864
401-305-3585
Its-My-Health.com
We provide much more than products, services and education. We provide the tools you need to optimize your health in a comfortable environment. We care. See ad, page 22.
Ionic Foot Bath
CARLEEN’S BODY HEALING
THERAPY
Carleen Christopher
401-345-6527
CarleensBodyHealingTherapy.com
This ionic detox is a therapy that uses negative ions to cleanse the body. The ions attach themselves to the toxins and then are flushed out through the feet’s reflex points.
Life Coaching
CÉCILE’S WISE WAYS
857-245-9488
Contact@CecileRaynor.com CecileRaynor.com
Ready to savor the joy and well-being of your dream life? Do you have aspects of your life that need upgrading? Discover how to elevate your vibrations to the frequency of your vision with a fun Body Intelligence Activation Process.
TAKE THE LEAP COACHING
Kim Childs, CPPC 369 Mass Ave, Arlington, MA 02474 617-640-3813
Kim@KimChilds.com KimChilds.com
Need help clarifying and realizing your desires? Asking “What’s next?” or “How do I get started?” Kim is a certified life and career coach specializing in Positive Psychology, creativity and midlife transitions, to help clients create more personally fulfilling, meaningful and empowered lives. Initial consultations are free
Mark Your Calendar
Soul Shamanism: A Weekend with Your Soul May 29-31
Experience an ancient Siberian practice brought forward to the future to assist us in these times of ascension. A sacred weekend to learn a practice where you know and live your authentic self.
Meet your soul, learn to access the love, wisdom and truth of who you are. Learn how to heal and walk your journey with understanding and high-level spiritual connections and energy. Bring all forward into your everyday life.
Guided by Shaman, Janet StraightArrow Himalayan Institute Yoga Center, Honesdale, PA 973-647-2500 • BeTheMedicine.com
Mark Your Calendar
Catskill Summer Vision Quest & Mitote July 9-12
Pause and get off the track of everyday life, to go inside and discover your authentic self, visions and spiritual connections in nature.
Indoor cabins, or camping as you choose, private wooded land to safely sit in nature to hear your heart speak. Awaken clarity, life purpose and joy as we break through illusions, fears and ego protections.
Seasoned Guide, Shaman, Janet StraightArrow Art Farm, Accord, NY 973-647-2500 • BeTheMedicine.com
Medical Medium
Coaching
HANNAH REDD ACUPUNCTURE
Hannah Redd, DA
Path 2 Harmony, 1182 Boston Neck Rd
Narragansett, RI 02882
401-261-4316
HannahReddAcupuncture.com
Using Medical Medium information by Anthony William for classes and coaching. Bio energetic assessments to help scan the body and determine causes for health conditions.
Naturopathic Medicine
CHRYSANTHI KAZANTZIS, ND,
MS
ANASA PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
245 Waterman St, Ste 200 Providence, RI 02906
401-270-1742
AnasaMedicine.com
Owner and founder of Anasa Personalized Medicine, Licensed Naturopathic Physician, Clinical Nutritionist, Reiki Master and Craniosacral Therapy Level 1 practitioner. Specializing in digestive disorders, thyroid disorders, diabetes, Lyme disease and mold toxicity. Addressing these conditions by treating the underlying cause through herbal medicine, supplements, homeopathy, clinical nutrition and lifestyle counseling. See ad, page 19.
NOELLE CARDARELLI, ND, DAC
ANASA PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
245 Waterman St, Ste 200 Providence, RI 02906
401-270-1742
AnasaMedicine.com
Licensed Naturopathic Physician with a specific interest in treating patients with hormonal, metabolic, gastrointestinal and inflammatory conditions. She is also well versed in treating tickborne illnesses. She is passionate about the natural intelligence of the physical and emotional body and the inherent connection between the two. She utilizes a variety of modalities including nutrition, vitamins and herbs to treat her patients holistically. See ad, page 19.
BRENDA BITHONEY, ND
ANASA PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
245 Waterman St, Ste 200 Providence, RI 02906
401-270-1742
AnasaMedicine.com
Licensed Naturopathic Physician with a specific interest in uterine and ovarian health (including fertility, endometriosis, irregular menstrual cycles, menopause, perimenopause, PCOS, cervical dysplasia, etc.) and digestive conditions (including IBS, SIBO, etc). She currently offers two additional therapies including naturopathic physical medicine and cervical escharotic therapy. To support patients, Dr. B uses herbal medicine, supplements, homeopathy, escharotic therapy and physical medicine. See ad, page 19.
DARIEN LESICKO, ND
ANASA PERSONALIZED MEDICINE
245 Waterman St, Ste 200 Providence, RI 02906
401-270-1742
AnasaMedicine.com
Licensed Naturopathic Physician and Craniosacral Therapy Level 2 practitioner. Dr. L enjoys working with people of all ages and conditions, truly believing that naturopathic medicine can benefit anyone and everyone. Her primary focus is the foundation of health and utilizes functional lab testing, homeopathy, nutraceuticals and botanical medicine to find and treat the root cause of disease. See ad, page 19.
GARY KRACOFF, RPH
Johnson Compounding and Wellness
781-893-3870
Gary@NaturalCompounder.com
Dr. Gary Kracoff provides guidance and in-depth consultative services to find the “why” to what is happening physically and mentally, working with individuals to restore balance in the body. Specializes in customizing medications to meet individualized needs of patients, and he suggests nutritional supplements, natural products and homeopathic remedies to aid in faster healing and recovery. See ad, page 25.
RADICAL HEALTH ND
Dr. Julia Smiley, ND
Hello@RadicalHealthND.com
RadicalHealthND.com
Offering virtual holistic health consultations for all ages and stages of life, craniosacral therapy and online courses. My goal is to provide guidance towards optimization of health and wellness with root cause solutions always in the forefront of any recommendations made.
AMBER VANCE, ND, MSCP
Precision Driven Health 693R Belmont St, Belmont, MA 02478 617-991-3452
DrAmberVanceND.com
A licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner providing comprehensive midlife care. Through personalized whole-person care, thoughtful testing, individualized guidance in nutrition, supplements, lifestyle, sleep and stress management, women gain clarity, confidence and lasting improvements in health and quality of life. In-person or virtual care.
Organic Mattresses
NATUREPEDIC
252 Newbury St, First Fl Boston, MA 02116
444 Washington St Wellesley, MA 02482
Naturepedic specializes in certified organic mattresses and bedding designed with health, wellness and sustainability at the forefront. See ad, page 12.
Organic Hair Care
FLIPP SALON APOTHECARY
38 Transit St Providence, RI 02903
401-274-1981
FlippSalon.com
A small boutique salon promoting a holistic approach to beauty, herbalism, art and music. Offering a full range of hair services using organic, plant-based products, full apothecary of loose herbs, blends and organic self-care items and accessories. Herbalist on staff. Gallery walls featuring local artisans; all mediums welcome. Live music in semi-acoustic for Music Nights. We believe that all these mediums are symbiotic in promoting joy and wellness in the individual and the community.
Raindrop Therapy
CARLEEN’S BODY HEALING THERAPY
Carleen Christopher
401-345-6527
CarleensBodyHealingTherapy.com
Raindrop Technique is a sequence of anointing with oils that brings structural and electrical alignment to the body in a relaxing and invigorating manner through the power of essential oils. The oils can improve overall bodily function.
Regenerative Esthetics
CARE ESTHETICS BOLTON
563 Main St, Bolton, MA 01740
978-652-3507
CAREEstheticsBolton.com
All-natural regenerative skincare with a holistic, science-based approach. No chemicals. No fillers. Just natural rejuvenation designed to restore healthy, radiant skin from within. It’s all delivered in a warm, supportive environment focused on long-term beauty and wellness. See ad, page 17
Reiki/Energy
Healing
ANGELIC ABBY
781-277-4837
ReikiByAbby@gmail.com
AngelicAbby.com
I am a Reiki Master and am passionate about helping others. Restore peace and relieve stress and physical pain with my convenient distant reiki sessions.
BOSTON REIKI MASTER
34 Lincoln St
Newton Highlands, MA 02461 617-633-3654
BostonReikiMaster.com
Are you stressed from the pressure of your job, home life, kids or an illness? Do you want to feel calm and relaxed? Experience reiki. Certified Reiki Master/Teacher with over 20 years’ experience in energy medicine providing pure Usui Reiki healing/ relaxation sessions.
HEART-HEALTH-HAPPINESS (H3)
Martinha Javid 100 Lafayette St, Pawtucket, RI 02860 401-206-1451
Experience a refined approach to holistic wellness through Christ-centered healing energy at HeartHealth-Happiness (H3). Sessions gently support stress reduction, emotional release, nervous system regulation, improved sleep, mental clarity and overall well-being—complementing traditional medical care while nurturing mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 12.
INTUITIVE HEARTS
Dawn McLaughlin, Founder 14 Cedar Swamp Rd, Smithfield, RI 02917 401-500-5612
Dawn@Intuitive-Hearts.com
The first rule of sustainability is to align with natural forces, or at least not try to defy them.
—Paul Hawken
Through Intuitive Hearts, Dawn McLaughlin offers holistic healing services including reiki, sound healing and hypnotherapy. Her intuitive approach supports energetic balance, emotional clarity and soul-level restoration—empowering clients to reconnect with their truth and embrace vibrant, aligned living. See ad, page 22.
May 2 • 10am–3pm
The area's only psychic, wellness and vendor festival features gifted mystics from three states offering tarot, mediumship, astrology and shamanic channeling, alongside wellness practitioners and vendors with handmade jewelry, candles, soaps, crystals, art and more.
Mystics, wellness practitioners and local artisan vendors all under one roof.
Common Fence Point Arts, Wellness and Community Center Portsmouth, Rhode Island
WolfMoonEduardo@gmail.com 401-207-5814
Editorial Calendar
Three-Month Planner
Business Opportunities
COLON HYDROTHERAPY BUSINESS FOR SALE (RETIRING) – Colon hydrotherapy business, 17 yrs, for sale in Braintree, MA. Located near major highway. Sale includes all assets in addition to 2 Angel of Water systems and a fully furnished suite of 2,300 sq ft. Subleases space to acupuncturist. 2 additional rooms for added services. Will fully train buyer in the equipment and daily operations of the business. Annual income part-time, $106,000 (average). Income potential annual fulltime, $265,000. Serious inquires only. Looking for $200K, negotiable. Liz: 781-801-2819.
SERVICE SPACE AVAILABLE – Seeking massage/holistic practitioner for rental, full- or parttime in the Hope Artiste Village, of Pawtucket, RI. Text, Autumn: 401-662-7412.
Group Therapy
CURIOUS ABOUT THE GROUP PROCESS? –
Ever thought about joining a group to talk about life? Craving connection with others, in-person? Wonder about impacting others? And how they impact you? Interview to join an ongoing process group with Samantha Dorian at The Therapy Center, Brookline, MA. 617-277-3910.
Help Wanted
HOLISTIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST: Practice Differently – Not a traditional outpatient orthopedic model. Low-volume, one-on-one proactive care integrating movement, mindset and longevity to help patients heal deeply and build lifelong strength. For more info, visit www.RestorePTRI.com/ physical-therapist-job-description.
Office Space Available
IMMACULATE EAST SIDE OFFICE – Off-street parking, stunning area. $700/month (24/7 access) or $75/daily. Jim: 774-473-0067.
Sleep Therapy
TMJ & SLEEP THERAPY CENTRE OF NEW ENGLAND
563 Main St
Bolton, MA 01740
978-779-0865
Info@TMJSleepMa.com; TMJSleepMa.com
Our facility addresses the root problem of most people’s sleep issues. Symptoms like facial pain, jaw pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, clenching, grinding and sleep disturbance must be examined thoroughly in order to treat a patient with individualized care. This usually involves the fabrication of a custom oral appliance. See ad, page 31.
Spinal Flow Technique
CARLEEN’S BODY HEALING THERAPY
Carleen Christopher 401-345-6527
CarleensBodyHealingTherapy.com
The Spinal Flow Technique assists you in eliminating stressors causing pain, disease and illness by decreasing blockages and increasing ease and flow. Spinal Flow is a powerful yet gentle healing using the nervous system. It consists of flight touches on specific areas of the spine and cranium, allowing the body to release those blockages.
Inner Ease Health is a clinical practice specializing in women’s pelvic health, sexual well-being and menopause. We integrate evidence-based medicine with holistic support to provide compassionate, comprehensive and personalized care tailored to our patients’ unique needs.
Yoga & Tai Chi
TIME FOR YOU YOGA
Maria Sichel, RYT, CSYT 2155 Diamond Hill Rd Cumberland, RI 02864
401-305-5319
Maria@TimeForYouYoga.com
TimeForYouYoga.com
Private Svaroopa® yoga therapy sessions are tailored to meet your needs. Specially trained in treating pain, including back pain and neck and shoulder issues. Yoga therapy is more powerful than weekly yoga classes and moves you more quickly toward health and well-being. Experience pain relief, greater mobility, improved sleep, easier breathing, deep relaxation, increased flexibility and a deep sense of peace.
Yoga Therapy
BRITTANY CAPOZZI, C-IAYT
781-588-2288
BellaCoinForThought@gmail.com
UnderstoryYogaTherapy.com
Please visit our website, NA-GBRI.com/calendar, for calendar listings and special events. Be sure to confirm events with the event host prior to the scheduled date of the event.
Janet@BeTheMedicine.com BeTheMedicine.com
Mentoring Healers-Teachers- Therapists, Spiritual Seekers, Summer Retreats, Trainings, Classes, profound healing, clearing, reclaim yourself, enjoy life. Shamanic and Intuitive Energy Sessions. Soul Retrievals. Past Life, Ancestral, Current life healing. Business, Home and Land clearings. More.
Hi ladies. When pain and trauma make you hide your body for safety, and you’ve tried everything to release this reflex, but nothing works, know that there are proven techniques that can reconnect you to safety, control and self-expression. See ad, page 9.
