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Natural Awakenings Phily April 26

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PHILADELPHIA

EDITION

Owner/Publisher Shae Marcus

Associate Publisher Monica DelliSanti

Account Executive Therese Howard

Editors Sara Gurgen

Randy Kambic

Nancy Smith Seigle

Design & Production Suzzanne M. Siegel

Marketing & Media Coordinator Len Camante

Social Media Manager Rickcresan Angkay

CONTACT US

Sales: 856-797-2227

Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com

Publishing/Editing:

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Marlton, NJ 08053

Ph: 856-797-2227

Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com NAPhiladelphia.com

NATIONAL TEAM

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CMO Vee Banionis

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CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation

350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921

Ph: 239-206-2000

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

Cover image by by Massimo Ercolin for Adobe Stock

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Publisher’s Letter

It started in a very ordinary moment.

I was standing in my kitchen, making dinner for my family—one of those weeknights where everyone is in and out, and I’m trying to get something on the table before someone asks, “What’s for dinner?” again—and for some reason, I looked down at the pan I was using and thought… how old is this?

Not in a nostalgic way. In a what exactly have I been cooking on all these years? kind of way.

That one question opened a door I didn’t expect to walk through.

I started reading about cookware—what it’s made of, what happens when it heats, what can quietly make its way into our food over time. And like most things, once you start noticing, it’s hard to stop. Heating leftovers in plastic. That quick microwave moment we barely think twice about. Even my morning coffee from a K-cup—efficient, yes… but suddenly not so simple when hot water meets plastic.

It wasn’t one big shift. It was a series of small realizations that asked me to pay attention.

And if I’m being honest, there was a moment where I thought, okay… now what?

Because living more consciously can feel like opening a closet you weren’t planning to clean out that day.

I didn’t overhaul everything overnight. (If only it worked that way.)

But I did begin.

For me, that meant slowly replacing my cookware, being more mindful about what I heat food in, and rethinking a few everyday habits that, over time, shape more than we realize.

And that awareness—that quiet shift—is what this issue is all about.

In “It Takes a Circle,” we’re reminded that sustainable living isn’t something we do alone— it’s built through connection, intention and the small choices that shape our homes and communities.

That same thread carries into “Spring Bowl Inspirations,” “Allergies and the Nervous System” and “Helping Kids Use Less Plastic”—small, thoughtful ways to care for our bodies, our families and the world around us.

And here in our Philadelphia community, that conversation comes to life.

On April 19, we’ll gather at the Drexelbrook, in Drexel Hill, for the Holistic Health & Healing Expo—a space where these ideas move off the page and into real connection. It’s where you can meet practitioners, discover new products and feel what it’s like to be surrounded by others choosing to live with more awareness and intention.

Because this isn’t meant to be done alone.

Earth Month isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.

About remembering that the way we live, the way we eat, the way we care—for ourselves, for each other, and for this planet—is all connected.

And sometimes, it begins with something as simple as looking down at the pan in your hand… and deciding that even the smallest choices are worth a second look.

Warmly,

Shae Marcus, Publisher

Discover Wellness in Action at the Holistic Health & Healing Expo

The Holistic Health & Healing Expo returns to Philadelphia from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 19 at the Drexelbrook, in Drexel Hill, bringing together a dynamic community of practitioners, wellness brands and curious seekers under one roof.

This one-day event features 70-plus curated vendors and more than 15 workshops designed to support the mind, body and spirit. Attendees can explore everything from functional medicine and energy healing to yoga, nutrition, intuitive readings, clean beauty, crystals and more. Whether beginning a wellness journey or already deeply rooted in it, visitors have the opportunity to discover new tools, connect with like-minded individuals and experience diverse healing modalities firsthand.

Expert-led workshops throughout the day provide practical insight and inspiration, while exhibitor booths offer hands-on experiences, products and services that can be incorporated into everyday life. “It’s where curiosity turns into clarity—and where wellness becomes something you can actually feel,” says Shae Marcus, founder of the event.

“Come with a friend, stay for a workshop and give yourself permission to explore what’s possible,” adds Marcus.

Location: 4700 Drexelbrook Dr. Free ticket with code GUEST. For workshop details and registration, visit Philly.HHHExpo.com.

A Sacred Weekend to Know and Live Your Authentic Self

Soul Shamanism Training–A Weekend With Your Soul, guided by Shaman Janet StraightArrow, will take place from May 29 through 31 at the Himalayan Institute Yoga Center, in Honesdale. The immersive retreat introduces participants to an ancient Siberian spiritual practice designed to help them understand who they are and why they are here now, experiencing themselves on both grounded human and spiritual levels.

Participants will engage in advanced awareness practices, healing, clearing and manifesting work aimed at releasing patterns that interfere with living authentically. Attendees will explore the “spirit lake”; meet their soul; and begin aligning body and soul in a way that fosters clarity, empowerment and unconditional self-connection.

“Imagine learning a direct process to know exactly who you are and why you are here now,” says StraightArrow. “From this day forward, you will never feel alone.”

Designed for healers, teachers, therapists, coaches, yogis and dedicated seekers, the training includes new levels of teaching, a Soul Shamanism Divine Playbook, recorded practices, post-retreat Zoom integration sessions and access to an ongoing practitioner community.

Cost: $695, with payment due by May 1. Location: 952 Bethany Turnpike. For more information or to register, visit  www.BeTheMedicine.com.

New Community Model Makes Acupuncture More Affordable in Newtown

The Wellnest Bucks County, in Newtown, now offers community acupuncture, a shared, group-based model that makes care more accessible and affordable for suburban Philadelphia residents. Sessions are held Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.

With sliding-scale pricing, this model is ideal for those with chronic conditions that benefit from more frequent care. In addition, evidence suggests that the group environment may enhance acupuncture’s therapeutic benefits, mitigating potential anxiety and tapping into the power of collective relaxation often experienced in practices such as yoga.

Services are provided by Rachel Shusterman, LAc, a state-certified practitioner who trained at the People’s Organization of Community Acupuncture in Portland, Oregon—the only U.S. school that focuses on this accessible, socially conscious model.

Community acupuncture joins the Wellnest Bucks County’s suite of energy-based services, which include the Harmonic Egg, an innovative, resonant chamber designed to reset the nervous system through light and sound therapy.

Cost: Sliding scale of $30-$60. Location: 660 Newtown Yardley Rd., Ste. 106. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call/text Rachel Shusterman at 267-308-5179 or visit www.TheWellnestBucks.com. April 19, 2026

Sharing Meals Boosts Happiness and Well-Being

The World Happiness Report 2025 underscores the pivotal role of social connections in human well-being, happiness and prosperity. Individuals with strong social ties tend to experience greater happiness, reduced stress levels, heightened life satisfaction, diminished susceptibility to depression and increased community engagement. These connections are associated with improved health outcomes, enhanced creativity, elevated income levels and extended lifespans.

The report presents new evidence on a measurable and cross-cultural indicator of social connection and well-being: sharing meals. The authors discovered that across various demographics, including age, gender, nationality, culture and region, individuals engaging in more frequent meal sharing exhibited significantly higher levels of life satisfaction and positive emotional states, while simultaneously experiencing lower levels of negative emotional states.

Countries that reported higher levels of shared meals also demonstrated greater social support and lower levels of loneliness. Meal sharing is influenced by cultural and social practices. In Latin America and the Caribbean, people share most of their meals with others, but in South Asia, individuals primarily consume meals alone. In the United States, approximately one in four people reported eating alone, a 53 percent increase since 2003. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger people and may reflect broader shifts in social and community engagement.

Adulterated Turmeric Found Worldwide

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 self-reported 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 muscle-relaxation 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.

A 2026 review published in Pharmaceutical Biology investigated how often turmeric prod ucts contained unlisted or misleading ingredients. The authors analyzed data from 48 global studies, covering more than 2,200 turmeric samples. They found that approximately one in five products were adulterated.

Turmeric marketed as a culinary spice was frequently diluted with fillers like corn starch or colored with synthetic dyes to enhance its visual appeal, compromising its quality and effectiveness. In parts of South Asia, turmeric powder was colored with lead-based compounds, posing serious health risks, especially for children. Natural turmeric supplements were most commonly tainted with synthetic cur cumin. Countries with stricter regulations and enforcement mechanisms had lower rates of adulteration. For example, the adulteration rate in the United States and Canada was 14.9 percent.

Rawpixel.com/shutterstock

Killer Whales Using Tools

A 2025 study published in Current Biology reports the first documented use of tools by marine mammals. Scientists have been studying three pods of killer whales, also known as orcas, in the Pacific Northwest for decades. Using unmanned drones, they observed the whales biting off the stalk ends of bull kelp and using them as tools to massage and scrub each other’s bodies—an activity scientists call allokelping. Thirty sightings of this activity among three pods were documented over the span of 12 days, involving different ages and sexes. The scientists believe allokelping may be a form of social, tool-assisted skin grooming. They also hypothesize that the behavior is unique to this killer whale society.

Saving the Orange Industry

Citrus greening is a bacterial disease spread by an invasive insect that causes oranges to prematurely drop before they ripen and sweeten. The disease has decimated orange crops around the world, including the reduction of Florida’s output by 90 percent since 2005. Without intervention, experts warn orange supplies could disappear by 2050.

The first rule of sustainability is to align with natural forces, or at least not try to defy them.
—Paul Hawken

Yellowstone’s Supervolcano

Yellowstone National Park sits atop a giant “supervolcano” known as the Yellowstone Caldera, spanning parts of Wyoming, Idaho and Montana, where the magma is just three to eight miles below the surface. Though rare, past eruptions have been massive, with the largest two occurring millions of years ago. The 30-by-45-mile caldera (defined as a large, cauldron-like hollow formed when a volcano collapses inward) has been undergoing episodes of uplift (rising) and subsidence (sinking) for thousands of years, resulting in ground deformations that significantly alter the Earth’s surface.

Scientists believe this activity is a type of natural pressure release, and the chances of an eruption are extremely low. Nevertheless, they continually monitor the area for seismic activity using radar maps, GPS satellites and 17 ground stations. About 1,500 to 2,000 earthquakes are documented annually, and a 19-mile-wide dome was recently discovered at the northern rim of the Yellowstone Caldera, in northwest Wyoming. While this bulge is expected to reverberate for years, experts believe it is unlikely to erupt.

Coca-Cola has joined forces with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to lead a global initiative to help fight the disease. They are rallying growers, researchers and scientists to detect, manage and bring an end to citrus greening. The team is hoping to stabilize orange supplies and prices, while protecting citrus farming communities around the world.

Monika Wieland Shields/shutterstock
Alla Khananashvili/shutterstock
The Yellowstone River flows through Hayden Valley, Wyoming, with the caldera rim in the distance.
Killer whale from allokelping pod breaches off coast of Washington state.

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Now Stocking a Full Variety of Sea Moss Products; Including 15 varieties of Gel, Smoothies. Vegan, Vegetarian, Keto and specialty products. Largest selection of essential oils and aromatherapy in South Jersey. Hard to find items including vitamins, supplements, herbs and sea moss products. Organic produce delivered daily.

Natural Skincare Recipes

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 anti-inflammatory 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.

The Science of Resonance

Exploring the Harmonic Egg

For many people, relaxation has become something of a lost art.

A typical day can feel like a relay race—emails, errands, responsibilities and screens competing for attention. By the time evening arrives, the body may be physically tired, yet the mind continues racing. It’s a familiar experience in modern life.

Data from the Gallup Global Emotions Report reflects that reality. Nearly four in 10 adults say they experience significant worry or stress daily, while many also report physical pain, sadness or anger. As interest in nervous system health grows, many people are exploring new ways to create moments of genuine rest.

One approach gaining attention is the Harmonic Egg, utilizing a technology that immerses the body in sound frequencies, colored light and gentle vibration.

The structure itself resembles a large wooden egg. Designed using principles of sacred geometry, it functions as a resonant chamber engineered to sustain, enhance and amplify sound waves. The all-wood construction allows tones and frequencies to circulate evenly throughout

the space, surrounding the body in vibration while minimizing outside interference.

During a session, participants recline in a zero-gravity chair positioned at the center of the chamber while music and tones fill the space and soft colored light surrounds them. For many people, the experience feels less like a treatment and more like stepping into a quiet cocoon.

Sound has played a role in healing traditions across cultures for centuries. From ancient chanting to Tibetan singing bowls, practitioners have long explored the relationship between vibration and well-being. Modern research continues to examine how sound frequencies may influence the body.

Some studies suggest that specific vibrational patterns may stimulate the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that supports circulation, cellular communication and vascular health. Scientists are increasingly curious about how acoustic stimulation may interact with the nervous system and encourage relaxation responses.

The Harmonic Egg was developed by Gail Lynn, who began exploring sound and frequency technologies following her own health challenges. Today, the chambers are used in wellness centers across the United States and internationally.

People that try the experience often describe a similar takeaway: a profound sense of calm. Some report better sleep, reduced stress or a feeling of mental clarity afterward. Others simply appreciate the rare opportunity to pause, unplug and allow the body to settle.

In a world that rarely slows down, spaces designed purely for rest can feel surprisingly powerful.

Harmonic Egg sessions are offered locally at The Wellnest Bucks County, located at 660 Newtown Yardley Rd., Ste. 106, Newtown, PA. For more information or to arrange for a session, text 215-694-3624, email Hello@ TheWellnestBucks.com or visit www.TheWellnestBucks.com

It Takes a Circle

Building Greener Lives Together

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 air-polluting 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.”

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 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.

Frank Muller
Tankhorn_GenAI/AdobeStock
The EcoVillage at Ithaca bustles with collective husbandry.

Our Blueprint

We were put on this Earth with a blueprint and a paradigm in place—one that allows humanity to pursue new opportunities while also learning how to move beyond the personality’s perception of the ego, which can often be a false narrative of the self.

We see this play out in everyday ways. For some, it’s depending on wealth to define personal value. For others, it’s blaming circumstances to avoid responsibility, or constantly comparing oneself to others to feel superior, rather than honoring one’s own path.

These stories do not reflect a person’s true self; they are ego-driven. And once that realization begins to surface, there is often a natural desire to become more whole.

That journey inward invites deep reflection—an honest look at both strengths and weaknesses. Identifying those weaknesses can be one of the most challenging, yet educational, experiences we face. Still, it is a necessary step forward, one that opens the door to greater purpose.

A wise spiritual teacher once said, “If you can’t love yourself, then you can’t love anyone else.” In essence, becoming whole allows us to experience life more fully, in harmony with the values of the universe.

From the moment we are born, this framework already exists. At some point, each of us is called inward—to reflect, to cleanse, and to evolve. Life’s challenges are not random; they offer insight, if we are willing to look closely.

As we move into a more conscious and refined level of awareness, this inward work becomes even more essential. When we face our weaknesses with honesty, something shifts. A new version of ourselves begins to emerge—one aligned with a deeper sense of purpose.

The ego, left unchecked, can cloud even the best intentions. Meeting those patterns with courage and faith creates stability, like an anchor in changing waters. Without that grounding, it’s easy to feel adrift. With it, we begin to move forward with greater clarity, direction and trust.

And perhaps that is the true purpose of the blueprint—not perfection, but awareness. Not control, but alignment. A steady return to who we were always meant to be.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves, their life path and how a renewed perspective can shape the future, guidance is available. Dan McMeans offers support for individuals ready to explore this inner work. He can be reached at 267-570-9042, emailing Dan_McMeans@yahoo.com or by visiting www.Mind-Propulsion.design.

Human Blueprint by Vecteezy.com

Spring Bowl Inspirations

Sustainable, Delicious and Flexible

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.

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

plant-based 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.

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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.

The Minimalist Workout

Build Strength, Skip the Gear

Although regular workouts at the gym and two-mile runs boost cardiovascular health and improve mental outlook, brief, low-impact exercises throughout the day can also offer a world of benefits, including more stable blood pressure. A 2022 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine estimated that approximately 110,000 deaths per year could be prevented if U.S. adults aged 40 to 85 increased their physical activity by just 10 minutes of exercise a day. Greater benefits were associated with the addition of longer periods of exercise—approximately 210,000 preventable deaths with 20 minutes of exercise, and about 270,000 with 30 minutes.

“While we love working out at the gym, some days we’re too busy. The most important thing is that we keep our bodies moving every single day, and adding some exercises at home will also help keep our bones and muscles strong,” says personal fitness trainer Hannah McDonald, co-owner and manager of Complete Fitness LHP, in Lighthouse Point, Florida, adding, “Always listen to your

body. It’s always better to start a little slow until you know how your body responds.”

No-Fuss Fitness

Getting in some moves at home can be fun and doesn’t require sophisticated equipment. Bags of rice, half- or full-gallon jugs of water and cans of food can replace hand weights. Towels, rope or clothing suspenders can double as resistance bands. Activities such as light-to-moderate housework and gardening prompt us to bend, squat and work with our hands. Low-impact practices like tai chi, yoga, Pilates, walking, swimming, recreational dance, rowing and cycling can also provide effective, short workouts without stressing the joints.

Modern sedentary lifestyles and busy schedules demand flexibility, and “movement snacks” can help us stay in condition—a few calf raises and shoulder rolls while waiting for water to boil, wall pushups between Zoom meetings or towel stretches for arm tone after stepping out of the shower. Although McDonald values traditional workouts for specific performance goals, she believes in the power of movement snacks to reset a person’s metabolism, which often shuts down during prolonged sitting.

“You can do most low-impact exercises in moderation every day,” says Bruce Boyd, a wellness coach and owner of 4 Infinite Life Center, in Dallas, Texas. “Doing single moves and engaging muscles several times a day can help boost metabolism. It can also increase energy and diminish afternoon slumps.”

Get Moving

Boyd recommends the following exercises.

• Single Leg Curl and Press: Balance on one leg while holding full, 24-ounce water bottles. Combine a bicep curl with an overhead shoulder press using both arms simultaneously or alternating them. This exercise enhances core stability, balance and strength. Aim for three sets of eight to 12 repetitions per leg.

• Low-Lunge Arm Swings: While holding a low lunge, with the back knee on or off the ground, bend the elbows at 90 degrees and mimic a running motion by alternating arm swings. This can be done with or without canned goods in hand. This exercise combines lower-body strength with upper-body mobility and core stabilization. Aim for a timed set of 20 to 30 seconds or 10 repetitions per side.

• Chair Squats: Stand with your back in front of a sturdy, non-rolling chair positioned against a wall. Slowly lower the hips to lightly touch the chair before standing back up. To intensify the workout, hold canned goods. Repeat for 30 seconds to one minute every couple of hours. This exercise improves balance, mobility and lower-body strength.

McDonald suggests the following fun workouts.

• Mopping to Music: Put on some fun music and grab a mop. Pretend to mop or mop the floor with intention by

emphasizing sweeping and scrubbing motions. Go a bit faster to get the heart rate up a little.

• Laundry Detergent Workout: For bicep curls, stand straight, engage the core and slowly curl the detergent jug. For triceps, stand straight with the core engaged and hold the laundry detergent jug overhead with both hands, then slowly lower it behind the head before slowly extending the arms upward once again. For squats—if knees are healthy and able—hold out the detergent jug in front with arms slightly bent, then slowly bend the knees to form a 90-degree squat. Hold for a few seconds, then repeat. Aim for 10 to 15 repetitions for each exercise. If a full jug is too heavy, begin with a smaller water bottle or can.

• Squats: Stand two steps from a wall and press the back against it with feet hip-width apart. Slowly slide down the wall until it feels like sitting in an imaginary chair, while keeping the lower back firmly against the wall. Hold for 20 seconds, or a full minute if legs are strong enough. Repeat three to four times with a one-to-two-minute rest in-between.

Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to natural living.

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Images/shutterstock

Allergies and the Nervous System

Calming Herbs for Yearlong Resilience

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 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

Olezzo/shutterstock

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.

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The Work Beneath Our Feet

Small Actions, Lasting Impact

There is a particular stillness that comes when our hands meet the earth. The soil is cool. The air carries the faint scent of green. We press a young tree into place, firm the ground around its roots and step back. What was planted is small—but what it will become is not. It will anchor soil, offer shade, filter air and shelter life long after we’ve walked away.

This is the work beneath our feet.

Each year, the world loses millions of hectares of forest. Forests regulate climate, protect water systems, stabilize soil and sustain biodiversity that supports our food and health. When they disappear, the effects ripple outward—into our weather patterns, ecosystems and daily lives.

Earth Month reminds us that meaningful

change does not begin in theory. It begins in participation.

For more than 50 years, Earthwatch Institute has connected volunteers with scientists conducting environmental research across the globe. Participants assist with wildlife monitoring, marine conservation and climate studies, contributing to research that informs real-world environmental decisions.

Natural Awakenings Chicago Publisher Peggy Malecki first encountered Earthwatch while in college. She spent three weeks off the coast of British Columbia, Canada, assisting a geologist in mapping small islands and documenting native flora and fauna. Years later, the images remain vivid: traveling between rugged shorelines in a small inflatable Zodiac, gliding beneath trees so lush and filled with raptors they felt “heavy

with eagles.”  This trip further strengthened a lifetime commitment to supporting our natural world.

Through WWOOF, individuals stay on organic farms practicing regenerative agriculture, exchanging hands-on participation for lodging and education. Compost steams in early morning air. Seeds are pressed into rows. Healthy soil—alive with microbial life—becomes a reminder that land responds when treated with intention.

Reforestation offers another tangible path. Organizations such as One Tree Planted, Trees for the Future and National Forest Foundation are planting native species in regions affected by wildfire and deforestation. Each sapling represents future stability—roots that will hold soil in place, branches that will absorb carbon and canopies that will shelter ecosystems yet unseen.

Even attention is a form of stewardship. The Wild Wonder Foundation promotes nature literacy through observation and journaling, reminding us that when we slow down enough to truly notice the natural world, care naturally follows.

Participation does not require distant travel. It may begin with planting a native species in the yard or volunteering with a local conservation group. But for those planning their next journey, Earth Month poses a powerful question: What if travel became an act of stewardship?

A mindful journey can support scientific research, strengthen regenerative farms or contribute to reforestation in the places we visit. When exploration meets responsibility, travel shifts from consumption to connection.

The work beneath our feet is steady and quiet. Whether close to home or across the globe, the invitation remains the same: choose experiences that give more than they take—and plant something that will endure long after the journey ends.

Shae Marcus, publisher of Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia, also hosts global retreats through The 11:11 Experience—proving that luxury and soil can, in fact, coexist beautifully. For more information, visit www.The1111Experience.com.

The activist is not the man who says the river is dirty.

The activist is the man who cleans up the river.

SCAN ME

Helping Kids Use Less Plastic

Gentle Swaps for Growing Minds

Because it is inexpensive, durable and lightweight, plastic is everywhere—from juice pouches to toys and toothbrushes. However, this non-biodegradable, petroleum-based polymer poses significant problems, especially in single-use items that languish in landfills for hundreds of years, breaking up into harmful microplastics and nanoplastics that contaminate the soil, water and air. Beyond the environmental threats, plastic is a public health concern affecting every generation.

These tiny particles have been detected in human organs, with emerging research

linking them to chronic diseases. A landmark 2024 study in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that patients with microplastics and nanoplastics in the fatty plaques clogging their arteries were fourand-a-half times more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes or death compared to those with plastic-free plaques.

Teaching children how their choices impact the bigger picture doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Spring is a perfect time to establish lasting habits and empower kids to take pride in their contributions. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, often passionate

about the environment and eager to adopt sustainable behaviors, embracing their role as participants that are enabling solutions.

Early Habits

Modeling eco-friendly behaviors is most impactful when kids are very young. “‘Normal’ gets defined in early childhood,” explains Melissa Valliant, communications director for Beyond Plastics, an environmental policy nonprofit based at Bennington College, in Vermont. “Kids don’t care whether a snack comes in a disposable plastic bag or a reusable container. They just accept it for what it is, and it becomes the norm. When reusables are part of a kid’s early life, they grow up recognizing that throwaway isn’t the default.”

Environmental education can be presented in an easy, fun way that empowers kids with solutions rather than instilling anxiety about the challenges. “Let kids know that there are things they can do to help with the problem, being matter-of-fact about how plastic gets into the environment and offering real, doable actions they can take,” counsels Maia McGuire, Ph.D., an associate program leader for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences and creator of the Florida Microplastic Awareness Project, which offers K-12 resources and citizen-science outreach materials.

Because single-use plastics are the most common and problematic plastic pollution, reusable alternatives are advised for school lunches, including reusable drink bottles, stainless steel food containers and beeswax wraps for snacks and sandwiches. Plastic toys can be phased out by choosing playthings made of sustainable materials such as Forest Stewardship Certified wood and paper, Global Organic Textile Standard cotton, vegetable inks and water-based paints.

“There’s no need for perfection. Perfection isn’t possible right now when consumer goods companies don’t offer enough plastic-free options,” says Valliant. “Get creative

with what you have. If you made spaghetti last night with a jar of pasta sauce, use that glass jar for food storage in the future. Reuse toys, books and clothes from friends and family, and don’t forget about Goodwill or Facebook Marketplace. Don’t buy individually portioned snacks. Buy in bulk and portion them out into reusable containers yourself or choose loose produce for snacks instead. Reducing plastic is more about refusing plastic than it is purchasing replacements.”

Plastic Detective

“It’s important for kids to learn where materials come from, where they go and how daily choices add up,” says Valliant. Here are a few activities to help children identify problem areas in the home and brainstorm solutions.

• Count household plastic items that could be swapped for reusables.

• Find products with plastic-free packaging at the grocery store.

• Sort the plastic trash, identifying what goes in the recycling bin and what does not.

• Bring gloves and a trash bag on family walks to collect litter.

Problem Solver

“Kids love to help, and they love a good game,” says Valliant. “The main idea is to convey they’re part of the solution, and they matter.” To that end, kids will respond positively when they are invited to choose their own reusable items such as a water bottle that they can decorate with fun stickers, or when they are invited to engage in a Plastic-Free Friday challenge. Committing one day per week to ditching single-use plastics can help shift habits the rest of the week.

“Community events promoting sustainability help teach children that taking care of the planet isn’t something families do alone. It’s

something we do together,” explains Valliant. “Cleanups help kids connect the dots between pollution and the environments they care about, while also showing they can effect change. Swaps normalize reuse, so kids grow up learning the importance of using what already exists.”

Nature Lover

Helping children love the natural world creates the foundation for sustainable habits. “I love taking kids outside and letting them explore. I encourage them to ask questions about what they see or hear,” says McGuire.

Valliant echoes this sentiment: “Two words: Get outside! At the risk of sounding 40 going on 80, kids these days don’t get enough of our natural world. Simply interacting with nature helps children form an emotional connection to it, which inspires them to protect it.”

Christina Connors is a writer, singer and workshop facilitator. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.

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Live-in care helps trust develop quickly

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At-Home Pet Massage

Tips and Techniques for a Happier Animal

Massage therapy does more than pamper pets—it provides hands-on care with real physical and emotional benefits. For dogs, cats and horses, regular massage improves comfort, mobility and overall wellness. Pet parents need to learn key techniques, understand the benefits and follow safety guidelines to ensure massages are safe and effective.

Physical Healing

A 2025 article in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery defines massage as the systematic application of manual pressure and movement to soft tissues, including the skin, tendons, ligaments, fascia and muscle. Integrative emergency veterinarian and end-of-life practitioner Lynda Loudon calls massage “one of the most accessible yet profoundly therapeutic tools we have for supporting our pets’ physical health.”

Gentle massage improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues while clearing metabolic waste. It also supports lymphatic flow, which depends on movement and manual stimulation. This is especially beneficial for senior pets, those recovering from injury or animals with limited mobility.

Massage improves joint mobility and flexibility. Pets with arthritis, hip dysplasia or age-related stiffness maintain better range of motion when inflammation is reduced and connective tissue stays supple. Massage relaxes muscles, eases pain and supports movement.

Loudon notes that it “works with the body’s natural healing mechanisms rather than imposing external interventions,” making it a gentle, non-invasive therapy.

Emotional and Behavioral Benefits

Massage is equally powerful emotionally. “Touch is one of the most primal forms of communication and comfort,” says Loudon, noting that it activates the body’s natural rest-and-relax response, lowering stress hormones, slowing the heart rate and supporting calm breathing.

Anxious pets often visibly relax during massage. Addressing pain and physical discomfort can improve emotional and behavioral challenges, Loudon points out. In end-of-life care, massage can provide both physical relief and emotional reassurance. It strengthens the human-animal bond, encouraging pet parents to slow down, stay present and connect deeply with their animal companions.

Common Techniques

According to Michael Daly, a certified canine and equine massage therapist and holistic pet health coach, each massage technique serves a purpose.

• Effleurage, involving gentle circular motions with the palm of the hand, begins most sessions, helping pets relax.

• Petrissage, involving a kneading action, loosens muscles and fascia.

• Friction techniques target deeper tissue to release knots and tension with circular or cross-fiber motions.

• Vibration techniques are used to release tension in a pet’s myofascial structure, which is the connective tissue binding their muscles. As Daly explains, “When tension develops in the fascia surrounding a specific muscle, it can cause that muscle to tighten. Applying gentle to more vigorous vibrations helps release the tension, and pets love it.”

• Tapotement involves gentle rhythmic tapping or cupping. Daly, who has been practicing animal massage for 15 years, generally avoids this technique with dogs because they either dislike it or want to play, but he finds the technique effective with horses.

• Passive stretching, which gently moves a pet’s limbs to loosen joints and muscles, is often used to finish a session.

Pet parents can perform these massages themselves. Daly recommends starting with effleurage, followed by vibration techniques. Stressing that the calming effect often begins with the person, he explains, “When you feel calm and centered, they do, too.”

He encourages keeping routines simple and

consistent. Massage works well any time of day, but Daly especially recommends brief effleurage and vibration sessions when pets wake up. Gentle strokes across the body can help prepare muscles for activity, which is particularly helpful for older pets transitioning from rest to movement. It is important to read a pet’s body language. “Dogs will tell you when strokes are too hard and when they are done,” says Daly.

Safety Concerns

Dogs often hide pain. Daly warns that limping usually means discomfort is already advanced. Watch for more subtle signs such as difficulty standing, hesitation with jumps, circling before lying down, excessive licking, increased thirst, nighttime restlessness or persistent panting. These symptoms warrant evaluation by a professional massage therapist or veterinarian.

Loudon emphasizes that while massage is generally safe, it should be avoided when there are active infections, fractures, recent surgical sites or areas of acute inflammation. Pets with cancer, clotting disorders, fever or severe pain should receive massage only under veterinary guidance.

When done thoughtfully alongside veterinary care, massage is a safe and valuable part of holistic wellness. Loudon suggests starting gently and monitoring the pet’s response. A relaxed posture, soft eyes and leaning in indicate comfort, while tensing, moving away, pinned ears or vocalizing means it is time to stop.

Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com

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AMAZING EARTH

https://AmazingEarthShop.com

Hand-crafted, small-batch herbal wellness and beauty products from organic herbs. Pendants, earrings and bracelets are made from ethically sourced crystals.

ARCHWOOD SOAPERY

www.ArchwoodSoapery.com

Toxin-Free and Eco-Friendly Hair and Skincare Products. Filthy vegan sea salt soap, seasonal cold process soap, solid shampoo bar varieties, solid conditioner bars, milk bath, aha and BHA skincare, itch ease, balms and salves.

BACKYARD EATS

www.Backyard-Eats.com

We design, build, and maintain edible gardens for busy people. Whether you’re looking for a full-service installation or a hands-on workshop to sharpen your skills.

BLACK CAT MYSTICAL MARKET

BlackCatRocks@outlook.com

Gems, crystals, minerals, herbs, tinctures, etc.

BRAHMA KUMARIS WORLD SPIRITUAL ORGANIZATION

www.TheMeditationCenter.net

The Meditation Center is a learning center for the community. It is a place to detach from the daily pressures of life to re-energize the spirit and reconnect with the self. It is a space designed to create feelings of welcome, safety and peace.

BUDDHA BELLY WELLNESS

www.BuddhaBellyWellness.com

Herbal rooted self-care skin and body care products. Promoting self-care for women.

CHU HOMEMADE BLESSINGS

www.ChuHomemadeBlessings.com

Our soaps, oils, scrubs, creams and balms are made from the finest plant-based ingredients, herbs and natural extracts to keep your skin healthy, glowing, and cared for.

D&A NATURAL

www.DAndA Natural.com

We believe in the power of nature and its ability to provide effective solutions for skincare. We are dedicated to using only natural ingredients in our products, making our skincare line free from any chemicals.

DAWN RICCI MEDIA

www.DawnRicci.com

Manifestation and Intuition.

DIVINE DISCOVERY

www.DivineDiscoveryHealing.com

Specializing in helping clients overcome obstacles blocking their growth and development through hypnotherapy and reiki healing.

EXTRACT 48

https://extract48.com

Natural herbal drops for everyday wellness.

FARMASi

www.Farmasius.com

Beauty (makeup) Wellness (vitamins) Nutrition (supplements).

GEM LIFE + BAR, WELL-BEING BARTIQUE

www.GemLifeCollective.com

Gem Bar is a booze-free bottle shop and pop-up bar offering an unforgettable wellness experience by crafting and sourcing amazing alcohol-free cocktails.

HANDTASTIK MASSAGE & CRYSTAL BOUTIQUE

www.Handtastik.com

We are a full-service wellness space in Trenton, NJ, offering therapeutic massage and a curated crystal boutique under one roof.

HARMONY HEALTH COACHING

www.HarmonyHealthCoachin.com

Health Coach – Helping yo-yo dieters break the cycle and build sustainable, confident health habits for life.

HERBAL HEALERS CBD

www.HerbalHealersCBD.com

Herbal Healers is on a mission to provide humanity with the highest quality CBD products and education at a fair price.

HUMMINGBIRD HEALING COLLECTIVE

www.HummingbirdHealingCollective.com

Our mission is to cultivate a collaborative wellness center hosting holistic practitioners and providing a space for meaningful work.

HYDRATE 360 MOBILE IV THERAPY

www.Hydrate360.net

Mobile IV therapy and injectable wellness treatments directly to your home, office, event or recovery space.

iMATTER WELLNESS,

PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER, CRNP

MZouguirn@gmail.com

We provide psychiatric evaluation of children (ages 5-20) and adults, medication management, CBT, parenting support, and service coordination/referrals.

INCENTIONAL: INCENSE WITH INTENTION

www.Incentional.com

Incentional turns ordinary moments into mindful rituals with heart-opening prompts on infused paper incense. Handmade near Philadelphia, each paper inspires reflection, intention and presence, creating a quiet moment of calm wherever you are.

HHH Expo Sponsor

INTERCONNECTIVE HEALTH

www.InterConnectiveHealth.com

A holistic wellness center offering personalized, integrative care that blends natural therapies, nutrition, and energy-based modalities to support wholebody healing and long-term wellbeing.

IPBYS PRISON OUTREACH / BHAKTI

BOOKS & ART

www.ChangeAHeart.com

The International Pure Bhakti Yoga Society (IPBYS) Prison Program is dedicated to spiritual outreach and education for inmates across the USA | Bhakti.

HHH Expo Sponsor

IWH WHOLISTIC HEALTH COACHING

www.CoachWithIWH.com

Institute of Wholistic Health: Certified coaches using Educate, Evaluate, Equip framework to address root causes, restore balance, and guide lasting physical, emotional and spiritual transformation.

JE T’AIME BATH & BODY

www. JeTaimeBathAndBody.com

Natural Skincare: Self-Love is the best love! We are committed to being the only place you need to look great and maintain your healthy, beautiful skin!

JUICE CAPITOL

www.JuiceCapitol.co

Juice Capitol provides great-tasting raw juices to help cultivate the body. Offers several detox/cleansing programs. Our juices are made daily, handcrafted, bottled and are custom made.

KAIA SKIN

www.Kaia.Skin

Our unique formulations of natural & organic ingredients are customizable to suit specific skin needs and can be used either individually or in combination for an effective skincare ritual.

KRISHNA LIFE www.KrishnaLife.org

Krishna Life is a Life Design meant to keep us in perfect harmony with nature, cosmos and the reality that permeates us.

LA LUNA HEALING AND CRYSTAL www.LaLunaHealingAndCrystals.com

Take advantage of our website where you can shop and or book any of the services being offered such as crystal healing, reiki healing and past-life regression.

LIFE MOTION PERSEVERANCE www.LifeMotionPerseverance.com

Empowers individuals through a blend of mindset and wellness coaching alongside reiki energy healing to support personal growth, emotional balance and holistic well-being.

HHH Expo Sponsor

LIFEWAVE

www.LifeWave.com/KellieSnyder-Roncace

The LifeWave X39 is clinically proven to provide the body with a level of health and vitality that you have not experienced since you were in your youth.

LIGHTWAVE CHIROPRACTIC

www.LightWaveChiro.com

The Network Spinal care we offer aims to upgrade the capabilities and coherence of the human operating system with gentle contacts along the spine, encouraging the body-mind to unwind tension on its own in a way.

LIVE FUNCTIONALLY

www.LiveFunctionally.com

Functional nutrition and lifestyle to optimize health to be healthy, happy and wealthy. I overcame personal health challenges and have a passion to teach others how to avoid chronic inflammatory illness.

Exhibitors …

MEDIUM MATT OZ

www.MediumMattOz.com

My name is Matt, and I am a psychic medium. I have the ability to connect to your loved ones that are passed away, to show that they are still around you, but just in a different type of way!

MIND BODY ZEN

www.MindBodyZen.com

Our mission is to make high-quality vibroacoustic relaxation equipment accessible to everyone.

MITCHELL’S MEDICINALS CBD

www.MitchellsMedicinals.com

Discover the healing properties of hemp/cannabis to alleviate common health conditions and restore homeostasis and health. - Highest quality & concentrations of hemp derived CBD from CO and PA. Topicals, Sublingual Drops, Patches, Pet Care.

NATURAL HEALING HERBS AND COSMETICS

NaturalHealingHerbs649@gmail.com

100% Natural Organic Skin & Hair Products made with LOVE in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

NATURAL LIFE WELLNESS STORE CHERRY HILL

www.msha.ke/NaturalLifeNJ

We are a local, family-run business that specializes in plantbased wellness and natural supplements designed to support your mind and body.

NELEVATE

www.Nelevate.net

The Jump Lab! The Jump Lab is an interactive, in-field product research lab/wellness activation that combines fun, fitness and innovation.

NUTRA RELIEF

www.NutraRelief.com/pro/brenda Liposomal supplements.

HHH Expo Sponsor

NUTRITION AND ACUPUNCTURE WELLNESS CENTER

www.NutritionalWellnessNJ.com

Clinical nutrition, Autonomic Response Testing (ART), Nutrition Response Testing (NRT), food sensitivity testing, functional blood analysis, acupuncture, Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET), reiki sessions, reiki certification classes and Theta Healing.

ORIGINS HOMEOPATHY, LLC

www.OriginsHomeopathy.com

Board-Certified Classical Homeopath, CCH, CHP. Registered Member of the North American Society of Homeopaths RSHom(NA).

PSYCHIC HEALING CENTER

MonicasMeditation.com

Tarot card readings, palm readings, crystal energy reading, chakra balancing also selling candles, crystals, and oils.

RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN

www.Esler.com

Andersen deploys a comprehensive strategic approach to driving sustainable improvements.

RISING TIDES NUTRITION

www.TheRisingTides.co

Offering personalized nutrition guidance, wellness coaching and holistic support to help you thrive with balance and vitality.

SACRED SPACE USA

https://SacredSpaceUSA.com

Stop by our booth and allow yourself to be guided in Meditation, Relaxation, Regenerating and Healing your Mind, Body and Soul through Vibrational Sound Healing with Crystal Singing Bowls.

SAGE INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTER

www. SageIntegrativeHealth.com

We are a compassionate, evidence-based functional nutrition and herbal medicine practice founded by Dr. Wendy Romig.

SAVVY FIT SOAPS

www.SavvyFitSoaps.com

Savvy Fit Soaps brings you the best in family skincare, all true to their motto “Really Friggin’ Natural.” Plant-based bars, bodywash, deodorant, body butter, and more!

SIMPLE GIRL NUMEROLOGY

www.SimpleGirlNumerology.com

Numerology is the ancient art and science of numbers and how their unique characteristics and vibrations have an influence on us. Our full birth name and birth date can reveal insights to help us better understand our lives.

SOLU AND TONESTREAM

www.NowBySolu.com

Solu debuted the n.o.w. Tone Therapy System in 2017, the first self-contained audio mindfulness speaker product. It has been changing lives since that time. In 2026, we will fully launch ToneStream, our sound app for mobile devices.

SOPORIFICIA

www.Soporificia.com

Soporificia is an apothecary for all things slumber & nerves. We support radical rest and the liminal work.

SPRINGFIELD BEHAVIORAL OF PENNSYLVANIA

www.SpringPsych.com

High-quality and affordable behavioral health treatment to children, adolescents, adults and older adults to enhance overall health and wellbeing.

THE 11:11 EXPERIENCE

www.The1111Experience.com

Our retreats are dedicated to providing transformative experiences for women who share a passion for travel, holistic wellness and spiritual growth.

THE ART OF IRIDOLOGY

www.TheArtOfIridology.com

Iridology (Iris Analysis) & Iris Art

THE WELLNEST BUCKS COUNTY

www.TheWellnestBucks.com

Harmony Egg and Actupunture.

TLS GLOBAL GROUP

www.TLSGlobalGroup.com

Medical led & laser & skin care EXLUSIVITY.

TOASTIQUE NEWTOWN SQUARE

www.Toastique.com

All-natural wellness shots, cold-pressed juices, kombucha, housemade treats (including gluten-free), healthy grab-and-go items and coffee. We will also promote our catering.

TRUE THERAPY

www.TruePsycotherapy.com

Mental health counseling.

U.ME.SHE.HER

www.UMeSheHer.com

Copper wrapped crystals, copper jewelry, luxury handmade waistbeads, and more!

VCA ANIMAL HEALING CENTER

https://vcahospitals.com

Holistic pet care and acupuncture.

VITAL HEALTH GLOBAL

https://VitalHealthGlobal.com/Tracey Quantum Bio Scans, Nootropic & Adaptogenic Supplements.

VORWERK, LLC / THERMOMIX USA

www.Vorwerk.com

We will be promoting Thermomix – A smart kitchen appliance that makes cooking easy and healthy.

WILD WELL

www.WildWell.life

Metaphysical wellness products ranging from Ritual Kits to microdosing kits.

Calendar of Events

Email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com for guidelines. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.

Wednesday, April 1

Kitten Cuddling – 9:45-10:15am. Looking for the purr-fect way to relax and lift your spirits? Enjoy a private session of kitten cuddles Rose Bridge Farm and Sanctuary, 1314 N. Limekiln Pike, Maple Glen. www.RoseBridgeFarmSantuary.com

April Fools Full Moon Night Hike – 7:309pm. Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. This April Fools’ Day experience a hike that’s 100% real, even if the date is suspicious. McKaig Nature Education Center, 889 Croton Rd., Wayne. www.EnjoyMackaig.org

Sunday, April 5

Baby Goat Yoga & Bottle Feeding at the Farm – 11am-12:30pm. This is a stress-relieving event sure to make you smile and feel great while loving on the baby goats. Cost: $34. Horse and Goat Yoga, 1537 Dillon Rd., Maple Glen. www.HorseAndGoatYoga.com

Tuesday, April 7

She Who is Many: Reclaiming the Wild, Wise and Sovereign Women Within – 6-8pm. Discover how inner forces, psychological patterns and spiritual energies shape how we relate, love, protect, lead and heal. The Random Tea Room, 713 N. 4th St., Philadelphia. www.MindBodySoulPhotography.com.

Thursday, April 9

Serenity Circle – 6:30-8pm. Join our social community whose mission it is to help everyone lead empowered, creative and healthy lives filled with positive influence and joy. Cost: $10. Serenity Day Spa, 64 E. Swamp Rd., Doylestown. www.Serenity-DaySpa.com

Sunday, April 12

Upper Merion Sunday Morning Pickleball Clinics – 9am. Become a part of the fastest growing sports trend in the country. Upper Merion Community Center, 431 W. Valley Forge Rd., King of Prussia. www.MainlinePickleBallClinics.com

Wednesday, April 15

Understanding Hormonal Transitions: Evidence-Based Natural Support – 6:307:30pm. Dive into natural ways to ease your body’s hormonal changes with science-backed tips and valuable information form experts. Cost: free. Weavers Way Co-op, 217 East Butler Ave., Ambler. www.WeaversWay.coop

Sunday, April 16 & Saturday, April 25

Comprehensive Reiki 1 Training Advanced Learning & Experience – Participants during this two-day class will receive Reiki 1 training, become confident in understanding and practicing energy medicine and healing, and activate their intuitive gifts and spiritual helpers. Held in the private Chester home of Reiki Master Healer Teacher-Shaman, Janet StraightArrow. 973-647-2500.

Friday, April 17

Free Concert - Songs of Peace – 6:308pm. Choral arrangements of Sri Chinmoy’s meditative music that will fill your heart with peace and hope. Performed by award-winning women’s choir in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Christ Church, 2nd & Market, Philadelphia. Text 215-383-3663 to reserve a seat. www.PhilaMeditation.org

Psychic Medium Event with Nicole Angel – 6:30-9:30pm. Join in on this group reading and receive a personal message from spirit. Cost: $80. Spire Fitness, 79 S. Main St., Yardley. www.SpireFitTraining.com

Saturday, April 18

Arbor Day Tree Planting & Mulching Word Day Event in Central Park – 9-11am. All ages are welcome! This is a family-friendly event to help care for our park while learning about the importance of trees and environmental stewardship. Doylestown Township, 425 Wells Rd., Doylestown. www.DoylestownPA.org

Earth Day Festival – 11am. Explore ways to engage with your environment, advocate for renewables, combat plastic pollution and find out ways to do your part. Upper Merion Twp., Building Park, 149 W. Valley Forge Rd., King of Prussia. www.Umtownship.org

Ambler Baby Goat Yoga Bahmaste –Hosted by Well Crafted Beer Co., this is a stress-relieving event sure to make you smile and feel great while loving on the baby goats. Enjoy a beer included with your ticket purchase. Cost: $34. Horse and Goat Yoga, 1537 Dillon Rd., Maple Glen. www.HorseAndGoatYoga.com

Sunday, April 19

Holistic Health & Healing Expo – 11am-5pm. Experience a diverse range of experts, practitioners and vendors who share a dedication to holistic well-being and environmental responsibility. Explore integrative and functional health practices, organic and vegan food options, movement and fitness programs, natural care for pets, mindful living for families, and workshops that inspire spiritual growth and self-discovery. The Drexelbrook Catering & Event Center, 4700 Drexelbrook Dr., Drexel. www.Philly.HHHExpo.com

Wednesday, April 22

Roted in Wellness: Monthly Meet and Mingle – 7:30-9am. Join in this monthly networking event for holistic business owners, wellness practitioners and heart-centered entrepreneurs. Willow Wellness and Chiropractic Care of Doylestown, 601 New Britain Rd., Doylestown. www.WillowFamilyWellness.com

Wednesday, April 29 –Wednesday, May 6

Your Body is a Portal: Subtle Anatomy, Chakras and the Meridians – 7:30pm. This immersion weaves together yin yoga practice, yoga philosophy, meditation and guided reflection to support a deeper understanding of both the wisdom of the body and the vast landscape of subtle anatomy. Cost: $349. Camaraderie Ambler, 10 Cavalier Drive, Ambler. www.CamaraderieAmbler.com

Sunday, May 29 –Tuesday, May 31

SAVE-THE-DATE

Soul Shamanism Training Sun. 4pm - Tues. 1pm Join us on this journey to you. Imagine learning a direct process to know exactly who you are and why you are here now. Cost: $695.

Himalayan Institute Yoga Center 952 Bethany Turnpike, Honesdale. www.BeTheMedicine.com

Thursday, July 9 –Sunday, July 12

SAVE-THE-DATE

Vision Quest Retreat with Mitote –Profound Spiritual Experience in Nature Thurs. 3pm - Sun. 1pm

A time for you. Pause and get off the track of your life to go inside and discover your authentic voice, needs, choices, and inner wisdom as a gift you give yourself. You’ll find that this experience offers deep healing on all levels. Cost: $1,000. Venmo @janet-straightarrow or www.PayPal.me/janetstraightarrowZelle Artfarm, 31 Fawn Ln., Accord, NY

Ongoing Events

Monday

Richmond Library Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Transition into your evening with an all-levels yoga flow presented by Mishana Yoga & Wellness. Cost: $10. Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St., Philadelphia. www.MishanaYoga.com.

Thursday

PR Manayunk Group Run – 6:30-7:30pm. Whether you are training for a race, working on getting back into shape or just looking for a few people to help knock a few miles out, join our group. Philadelphia Runner, 4358 Main St., Philadelphia. www.PhiladelphiaRunner.com

Saturday

Northern Liberties Farmers Market –10am-2pm. This weekly, yearlong farmers market features over a dozen vendors including fruit and vegetable farmers, dairy purveyors, chocolate makers, hyper-locally brewed beer and more. The courtyard at The Piazza on the corner of 2nd St. and Germantown Ave., Philadelphia.

Community Resource Guide

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com to request our media kit.

Asthma Treatment

DORIS TODD

717-406-9598

Supports asthmatics—especially those impacted by toxic environments—in identifying and reducing triggers naturally, strengthening the body, improving vitality, and moving toward less dependence on medications through holistic, practical lifestyle guidance.

Bodywork

NANCY WALTON

Awaken & Restore Massage and Wellness Center

716 N. Bethlehem Pike, Suite 204A Ambler, PA 19002

267-221-7160

At Awaken and Restore reiki master Nancy Walton offers natural healing methods for body and mind. Reiki, individual Sound Baths, Chakra clearing and alignment with (optional Soul Star for personal direction) Tuning Fork sessions. As a Certified Reflexologist (since 1989), Foot Acupressure is also available. By appointment only. Call 267-221-7160.

Coaching

STEPHANE PONCELET

570-449-2219

calwl2022@gmail.com

www.Create-A-LifeWorthLiving.com

Clients learn to observe and respond to deep-seated emotions of conflict, emptiness, and loneliness that often arise from family dysfunction. Guided in mourning the unchangeable aspects of their past, helped to own their truths and grieve their losses, clients are encouraged to show themselves the love, patience, and respect they truly deserve. A transformative process which creates a life that is truly worth living.

Energy Healing Arts

SAGE & SAND MYSTIC

Kristina@SageAndSandMystic.com

Sage & Sand Mystic offers one-to-one intuitive energy healing rooted in grounded mysticism. Sessions support clarity, alignment, and deeper self-connection through personalized, responsive energetic work.

Integrative Wellness

INTERCONNECTIVE HEALTH

5055 Swamp Rd., Suite 203 Fountainville, PA 267-935-4929

www.InterConnectiveHealth.com

InterConnective Health is an integrative wellness center offering personalized care blending modern medicine with holistic therapies, supporting physical, emotional and energetic balance through root-cause healing and whole-person care.

Transcendental Meditation Programs

DOYLESTOWN TM CENTER

Joe & Carole Smith

Teachers of the Transcendental Meditation Program

Tammany Farm 5792 Carversville Road Doylestown, PA 18902 215-783-4629

CSmith@tm.org

www.TM.org/Doylestown

Certified teachers Joe and Carole Smith offer Transcendental Meditation instruction, a research-backed practice supporting stress relief, improved sleep, emotional resilience and mental clarity through personalized instruction requiring no belief system or changes.

Oh, the lovely fickleness of an April day!
—W. H. Gibson

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