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September 2026 Natural Awakenings Sarasota

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FREE

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | H E A LT H Y P L A N E T

Healing Harmonies How Sound Therapy Supports Modern Wellness

The Body Remembers Somatic Treatments That Release Chronic Stress and Trauma

Everyday Yoga Movements

Supporting Mobility, Balance and Joint Health

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues

September 2026

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Sarasota/Manatee/Charlotte Edition | nasrq.com


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E B RAT I NG

25 YEARS O

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ERVIC

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E B RAT I NG

25 YEARS O

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EALIN

Sarasota’s Premier Acupuncture Practice We Treat: • Chronic Pain • Fibromyalgia • Peripheral Neuropathy • Nerve Pain • Fertility Enhancement • Failed Surgery Pain • Gastrointestinal Disturbances • Covid Long Hauler Symptoms • Grief Loss Recovery • Stress Induced Disturbances

Christina A. Captain, DAOM, MSHN, AP

Transforming Lives Through Acupuncture and Functional Nutrition 2650 Bahia Vista St, Suite 101, Sarasota, Florida 34239 | 941.951.1119 | SCANsrq.com

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Bridge Mind, Body, and Wellness: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in

Alternative Medicine

COURSES INCLUDE:

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C E

B R AT

35 E

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• Health Psychology • Introduction to Homeopathy • Manual Therapies: Massage, Reflexology and Acupressure • Introduction to Chiropractic • The Herbal Medicine Chest • Antioxidants

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Apply NOW!

100% online or on-campus class schedules are available Students take one class at a time for more focused learning Financial aid is available for those who qualify

Call 888.417.3382 SARASOTA CAMPUS

6001 Lake Osprey Drive, #110, Sarasota, FL 34240

www.EvergladesUniversity.edu September 2026

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Get some SLEEP! Tired of Waking Up Exhausted? Finally real, practical answers to why you are so tired! Join our Seminar: Call anytime 24/7 for your convenience.

1-833-573-1615

But hurry! This seminar is available for September only!

CONVERSATIONS WITH TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERS RESHAPING LIVES

Join special guest Dr. James Martin – with over 50 years (DCCN, DACBN, BCIM, FAAIM, PSc.D)

of changing lives in natural health – as part of the Trail Blazer Voices speaker series. Get real education and powerful cellular solutions that finally work. Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. We do not claim to treat, cure, diagose, or prevent disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

September 2026

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We Put Your

Head on Straight (So You Can Achieve Optimal Health, Naturally)

If the first two bones in your neck are misaligned, communication between the brain and body is interrupted and can cause numerous health problems. Dr. Drew Hall has practiced the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic technique for the last 20 years in Los Angeles and Carson California before opening his third clinic right here in Sarasota, Florida. Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic is a unique chiropractic technique that focuses all its attention on the upper neck and how it impacts the brainstem and central nerve system. The Blair technique is precise, gentle, and does not use any pulling, popping, or twisting of the neck.

Call (941) 259-1891 today to schedule an appointment to see if you suffer from a neck misalignment that may be affecting your health.

We have helped people with the following conditions:

• • • • • • • • • •

Auto Accidents Fibromyalgia Lower Back Pain Meniere’s Disease Neck Pain Sciatica Post-Concussion Syndrome TMJ Trigeminal Neuralgia Vertigo & Whiplash

“I have over 20 years of practice experience and taking care of 10,000 patients from Los Angeles to Sarasota Florida. I recovered from severe chronic health problems 30 years ago after being introduced to blair upper cervical technique. It’s my lasting purpose to help as many people as possible live a life of health and happiness”. - Dr. Drew Hall

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! 3920 Bee Ridge Rd, Bldg D, Sarasota, Fl 34233

(941) 259-1891 • sarasotauppercervical.com 6

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Contents 19 A Healthy Gut:

The Path to a Happy Brain

20 Scoliosis and

Fascia Restrictions: What’s the Connection?

22 The Root Cause

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of Why You Still Don’t Feel Well

23 Finding Calm

Through Acupuncture

26 Introduction to Somatic Therapies

32 Homeopathy

Under the Microscope

34 Functional

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Yoga for Everyday Mobility

35 Home Energy Resilience

36 The Power of Movement

38 Promoting Calm

in Dogs and Cats

40 Healing

22

Harmonies

Departments

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News Briefs Health Briefs Feature Story Conscious Eating Homeopathy Fit Body Green Living

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Healthy Kids Natural Pet Calendar Classifieds Resource Guide


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How to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 941-564-0885 or email Publisher@nasrq.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month.

Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@nasrq. com. Deadline for editorial: the 12th of the month.

calendar submissions Please submit all listings through nasrq.com. Deadline for calendar: the 12th of the month.

regional markets

Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 941-564-0885. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com.

Own Your Own Franchise Make a difference in your community. Become a Natural Awakenings Franchise owner. Visit: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com. September 2026

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Publisher’s Letter

SARASOTA /MANATEE EDITION PUBLISHER Janet Lindsay MANAGING EDITOR Mary-Elizabeth-Schurrer DESIGN & PRODUCTION Susan Jones SOCIALMEDIA Golden Thread Executive Service Corp

CONTACT US Sarasota / Manatee Edition: 941-564-0885 publisher@nasrq.com

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Sales Darleene Lee National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180 Customer Service Dani Bucad

CONTACT US

As summer fades into autumn, our September issue of Natural Awakenings is all about the transformative power of inner balance—not as a state of perfect calm, but as an intentional practice of entering into life’s rhythms with more awareness, flexibility, and resilience. Through mindful self-care routines, gentle movement, wholesome nutrition, and emotional regulation, you can embrace simple, sustainable ways to cultivate inner balance from one moment to the next. So, let’s explore what this means in the new season we’re embarking on. This month’s feature story, “Introduction to Somatic Therapies,” dives into this holistic wellness technique as a vehicle for nurturing body awareness and releasing chronic stress or tension. Somatic therapies use movement, breathwork, or other nervous system-based practices, which attune us to our own physical sensations and restore emotional balance. In a culture of persistent distractions or overstimulation, this tool can help sustain the mind-body connection, empowering us to be more present and at ease in our own lives. It’s nearly impossible to talk about inner balance without discussing the physical, mental, and even spiritual benefits of yoga. Our “Fit Body” article makes the case for functional yoga as a practical daily routine to optimize freedom of movement. While yoga is often mistaken as an exercise reserved for the ultra-strong, athletic, and flexible, many poses are quite accessible for all levels of mobility. Not to mention, September is “National Yoga Month,” which means it’s the ideal time to explore this ancient practice for yourself. Sometimes inner balance means tuning out from all the noise around us, replacing that chaos with more harmonious sounds. This month’s “Healing Ways” article examines how sound therapies can relieve stress, anxiety, and burnout. Sound healing modalities channel the frequencies and vibrations of different acoustic tools or instruments to activate the body’s natural energetic flow. This helps the nervous system transition from “fight-or-flight” arousal to “rest-and-digest” stillness—a breath of fresh air in our world of constant motion. The start of a new season often ushers in change, but in the midst of any shift, one constant remains: We all deserve to prioritize our own inner balance. I hope this issue encourages you to do just that, and I look forward to seeing you back here in October!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

© 2026 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

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The George: Where Bohemian Style Meets Sarasota As you stroll through downtown Sarasota, make sure The George is at the top of your must-visit list. Located on Main Street, across from Regal Hollywood Cinemas, The George combines effortless bohemian style with cool, modern fashion. Whether you’re searching for the perfect outfit, unique accessories, or a fun statement piece, this boutique offers an inspiring and enjoyable shopping experience.

European Helix Hair Designer THE CUT THAT CURLS and with NO chemicals. Please call Jutta for an appointment 941-629-0074

Everybody will benefit from this carefree haircutting Technique, especially baby-fine hair. Any Length from short to long. I use “All Nutrient”, an organic derived haircolor and Highlights/ Helix cut Balayage made with Blueberrys. “I do with Scissors, what others do with Chemicals” NO MORE BRASSY HAIRCOLOR

The “Vines” Shopping Center, 701 JC Center Court, Unit 10, Port Charlotte, FL • www.EuropeanHairDesigner.com

Inside, you will find an intentionally curated selection of natural fabrics and a free-spirited, bohemian aesthetic that blends comfort with a fun, edgy vibe. Each item is chosen with creativity, comfort, and self-expression in mind, making it easy to build a wardrobe that feels authentic and fresh. The George is not just a clothing store—it’s a destination. The welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and rotating collections make each visit feel like a new adventure. Whether you want to update your closet for the season, create a dazzling look for a special occasion, or treat yourself to some retail therapy, The George is full of pieces to suit your needs, while helping you feel confident. With its trendy fashion, free-spirited vibe, and unbeatable location, The George captures the essence of Sarasota in every detail. Come explore, feel inspired, and leave with something you’ll want to wear all the time. Location: 1960 Main St, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-277-3707 or visit TheGeorgeSarasota.com.

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Get Smoothier, Shinier Hair with European Helix Hair Designer Jutta Barnes, owner of European Helix Hair Designer in Port Charlotte, offers a new all-natural salon treatment that will smooth and shine your hair with minimal effort. This gentle, restorative treatment is formaldehyde-free and non-toxic with no fumes or harmful chemicals. It’s ideal for all hair types and textures, offering frizz-free results that last around four to six months. If your hair is over-processed or could use a refresh, this is the treatment for you. Location: 701 JC Center Court, Unit 10, Port Charlotte. To schedule an appointment, call or text 941-629-0074, or visit EuropeanHairDesigner.com.

ALWAYS TRUST The VIBE

Crystals

Readings

Reiki

Circles Classes and More Explore the Treasures Enjoy the Experience Come check out the new line of Women’s Clothes. Curated to add a little Treasure to your Wardrobe . Monday Meditation (door closes 6pm)

Wednesday Wisdom Share

(door closes 6pm) Walk-in Reiki available on Thursday with Nancy Lord

411 W. Dearborn St. Englewood, Fl 34223 IamMsKitty.com

734-564-6828

Hours: 10am to 4pm

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Discover What It Means to Heal at the Cellular Level It’s time to face the real truth about lasting wellness and healthy aging—not the trendy version, but the honest and sustainable one. For years, the wellness industry has sold the claim that one “magic pill” will fix everything. However, the reality is, no single “cure all” exists. Symptoms of illness do not occur for just one reason. Health problems arise when multiple systems begin to fail. Inside the cells, energy production slows, repair mechanisms weaken, cleanup processes falter, inflammation escalates, and communication between the cells breaks down. Trying to correct all of this with a single supplement is like trying to save an entire city with one revitalized street. It simply does not work. Disease is not random. It’s the direct result of cellular dysfunction. Disease often manifests quietly beneath the surface for a long time before noticeable symptoms show up. However, there are ways to halt this pattern and restore actual health. That’s where Dr. James Martin’s new book comes in. As the founder of Nutrition Wellness Center in Sarasota, Dr. Martin understands the intricacies of healing at a cellular level. This book does not promise miracles—rather, it promises clarity. You will learn what damages the cells, why aging accelerates, which cellular systems matter most, and why focusing on just one pathway almost never succeeds. You will also discover natural, science-backed solutions to optimize all systems and functions within the body together. When multiple cellular pathways are treated at the same time, powerful changes take roots. Energy improves, inflammation decreases, healing restores and even biological age can move in the reverse direction. In this book. Dr. Martin lays out the core foundations the scientific community recognizes as essential to reverse the effects of biological age and nurture healthy cellular function. It offers a clear explanation of how the body works and what it requires to shift from merely surviving into authentically thriving. Location: 3665 Bee Ridge Rd., #200, Sarasota. To receive a copy of Dr. Martin’s new limited-release book, call 1-800-222-3610 or visit MyNutritionWellnessCenter.com.


CALL 1-800-222-3610 TO GET A COPY OF DR. MARTINS BRAND NEW LIMITED RELEASE BOOK (DACBN)

OUR MISSION IS TO EDUCATE AND HELP AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE, NATURALLY.

INSIDE YOU’LL DISCOVER: Why you are suffering from chronic fatigue What happens when your bodies cellular clean up system fails

THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGE TO THE FIRST 149 CALLERS.

Cells have a biological timer and how to fix this Why zombie cells are destroying your health A cellular protein that can protect the brain, heart and kidneys And much, much, more tips you can use to change your health and change your life.

DO NOT WAIT TO TAKE THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP IN YOUR CELLULAR HEALTH. Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. We do not claim to treat, cure, diagose, or prevent disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. September 2026

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The Body Speaks, Learn How to Listen The human body knows how to communicate its needs. Chronic stress, unresolved emotions, limiting beliefs, or life experiences can influence how you feel and move in the world. Often, the body speaks through these markers before you recognize which areas need attention. When you learn how to listen to the body’s inner wisdom, it can open the door to more self-awareness, healing, resilience, and positive change. Karen D’Antonio, RN, is a holistic healing guide, kinesiology specialist, and Spirit University instructor. After more than 30 years as a Registered Nurse, she felt called to explore healing beyond just baseline symptoms to understand the powerful connection between the mind, body, emotions, and spirit. Today, she helps folks reconnect with their bodies’ innate wisdom through kinesiology and holistic healing practices that support emotional well-being, stress reduction, nervous system regulation, and personal transformation. On September 19, she will facilitate a Spirit University workshop titled, “Your Body Knows: Energy Healing Through Kinesiology.” In this workshop, you will discover how the body communicates through stress patterns, posture, movement, and subconscious responses. Experience an introduction to kinesiology, learn simple techniques to nurture balance and emotional well-being, and obtain practical tools you can start using immediately. She also offers private one-on-one sessions, holistic healing and kinesiology sessions at Soul Transcend and Soul Purpose Wellness Guild. These sessions can help reduce stress, release limiting patterns, reconnect with your inner wisdom, and work with the body’s natural capacity to heal. After all, true healing does take place when you become someone new. It begins when you reconnect with the authentic human you have always been. For more information, visit WholisticallyHealed.com or follow @wholisticallyhealed2024 on Instagram.

Are you looking for an uplifting community that honors your spiritual journey? Join our inclusive sanctuary dedicated to authentic teachings of mediumship, healing, spiritual growth, and the discovery of spiritual truths through esoteric arts. WEEKLY SUNDAY MORNING SERVICES:  Healing Meditation Service at 10:30  Celebration Service at 11:00 (In-Person & Online) with messages from Spirit

Est. 1949 - A Legacy of Light

Visit our website for links to our services, development classes, events, visiting renowned international tutors, free booklets and newsletter, our philosophy, how we can serve you, and more!

SarasotaCenterofLight.com ⬧ 941-953-6620 852 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 14

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Upcoming Events at Sarasota Center of Light This month, Sarasota Center of Light welcomes internationally renowned medium, spiritualist healer, and teacher Rev. Richard Schoeller. He will be at the Center from September 19–24, during which he will facilitate a variety of workshops and experiences. On September 19, from 7–9 p.m., Rev. Schoeller will host “A Demonstration of Mediumshop” in the Sanctuary. During this workshop, he will offer messages from Spirit loved ones. Please be aware that attendance will not guarantee the receipt of a message. The cost to attend this event is $30. On September 20, at 11 a.m., Rev. Schoeller will also be the guest speaker at Sunday morning services, offering an inspirational talk and Spirit messages. On September 22, from 7–9 p.m., Rev. Schoeller will host “A Conversation with Spirit: Demonstration of Trance” in the Chapel. This event offers an uplifting and unique opportunity to witness Trance Mediumship. The cost to attend is $35, and space is limited. Finally, on September 23, from 7–9 p.m., Rev. Schoeller will host “Development of Mediumship” in Davis Hall. Come with a sense of adventure and enthusiasm. The cost to attend is $30. Location: 852 S Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. To register for any of these events, call 941-953-6620 or visit SarasotaCenterOfLight.com.


Experience Therapeutic Scratching at Hair and Earth Organic Salon Do you ever want someone to scratch your scalp or back? Hair and Earth Organic full-service salon now offer Therapeutic Scratching, either as a standalone service or as a complement to other services such as color processing. Performed in a massage chair, Therapeutic Scratching uses light to moderate touch, with the fingernails or specialized tools, to create gentle sensations across the skin’s surface. This technique applies slow, deliberate strokes, rhythmic patterns, varied pressure, and focused attention on highly sensitive areas. Unlike deep tissue manipulation, scratch therapy works on the skin’s surface and nerve endings to create neurological, rather than structural changes. This activates reward pathways in the brain, activates endorphin and dopamine release, helps induce ASMR responses, creates sensory focus, and calms the parasympathetic nervous system. These short Therapeutic Scratching sessions feel hypnotic and meditative. There is no discomfort—only various degrees of pleasant sensation. Many folks describe entering trance-like states, where time seems to disappear and thoughts quiet completely. The experience can offer mental and emotional release as well. Therapeutic Scratching can benefit those dealing with stress, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, sleep issues. It’s also perfect for anyone who just wants to relax. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call Erinn Earth at 941-284-9563 or email HairAndEarth@GlossGenius.com.

Anti-Aging Seminars with Dr. Anna Dr. Anna Baker, DOM, invites you to join her interactive anti-aging seminars via Zoom on September 9 and 18, both at 1:30 p.m. She will showcase her Faces by Dr. Anna acupuncture facelift and her muscle retightening Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna. Contact the Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna store to access the meeting ID number. If you cannot attend the seminar live, Dr. Anna will send you a link to watch at your own convenience. Dr. Anna performs a unique type of acupuncture facelift that she invented. The muscles of the face and neck are progressively retightened to retrace the steps that aging took. An initial package of 10 treatments is required, and the results last for 18 months before you will need a one-treatment touchup to maintain the lift. In these seminars, Dr. Anna will show photographed results on people of all ages. In addition, she will discuss her proprietary Pearl Cream by Dr Anna, which offers the same muscle retightening as her acupuncture facelift in a slower, more gradual process. Her Pearl Cream is an anti-aging serum made from real pearls and Chinese herbs without any preservatives. Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna is also available as a muscle tightening body lotion, a men’s anti-aging line, and a sports performance line. Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna is available for pick up by appointment only at Dr. Anna’s office. Call 941-924-2723 for directions. Free consultations and facial analyses are offered for acupuncture facelift and Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna. For more information about Dr. Anna’s services and products including photo documentation, visit FacesByDrAnna.com and PearlCreamByDrAnna.com (we are no longer at the location shown on this website).

For Wellness Living, Joy & Empowerment Private Sessions – Counseling, Energy Work, Reiki, Hypnosis, Past Life Regression, Soul Retrieval, Intuitive and Oracle Card Readings Rev. Zan Benham • Zan@Woman-Spirit.com 941-922-7839 • Woman-Spirit.com Visionary • Intuitive Counselor • Shamanism Reiki Master Teacher • Ceremonialist • Reader September 2026

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Taste the Difference at Flobucha

photo by Terra Lynn Photography

Kombucha is a fermented tea known for its nutritional value and its ability to support a healthy gut microbiome. However, how kombucha is brewed and fermented matters. Homebrewed kombucha, while traditionally raw, can carry risks of contamination or over-fermentation when not prepared properly. Store-bought varieties can have their own drawbacks, including being under-fermented or containing added ingredients and undergoing processing methods that may diminish the natural nutrients and probiotics found in traditionally brewed kombucha. Flobucha brings together the best of both worlds. It combines traditional brewing methods and organic ingredients in a highly controlled environment to create a premium kombucha you can count on for quality, consistency and naturally occurring probiotics.

Kombucha contains naturally occurring antioxidants, polyphenols and acetic acid. These compounds may help support the body’s natural defenses and promote a healthy balance of microorganisms. With a variety of delicious flavors to choose from, Flobucha makes it easy and enjoyable to add traditionally brewed, premium raw kombucha to your daily routine. Come taste the new limited-quantity seasonal options: Watermelon Lime Mint; Triple Rose, a blend of rosemary, rosebuds and rose petals with a twist of lime and ginger; GTL Heat, made with ginger, turmeric, lemon and cayenne; Cherry Lemon Ginger; and Blue Spirit, a blend of coconut water, ginger and blue spirulina. Flobucha sells its kombucha at its own taproom, at local health food stores and at farmers markets. It also offers a weekly subscription service and can deliver fresh Flobucha directly to your door. The Flobucha Taproom is a fun place to hang out, too. They host events, such as cacao ceremonies and healing circles with local practitioners. Join them on Thursdays in September from 4-6 p.m. for a free kombucha tasting and enjoy their seasonal Flobucha flavors. Location: 2725 Mall Dr., Sarasota. Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, email Info@Flobucha.com, visit Winesque.com or follow via social media at @flobucha on Instagram and @Flobucha on Facebook.

Celebrate the Fall Equinox with Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light September 22, 2026, at exactly 7 p.m., marks the official autumn equinox. Each time a turn of the Celestial Cross ushers in a solstice or equinox, unique and special energies come upon this Earth. Across time, all cultures have honored the start of a new season and its impact on life. Understanding these cycles can help us align with their specific energies. Ancient wisdom also tells us that, as divine co-creators, we can harness those energies toward the manifestation of our heart’s desire. Here at the Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, our collective dream for humanity is peace on Earth. We are existing at a pivotal time in human evolution, which means the choices and intentions we make matter now at this precise moment. Join us to commemorate the significance of this autumn equinox on September 22, 7 p.m. You are invited to attend either online or in person. Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota. To register for this experience, visit the “Calendar” tab at CCOSL.com, or call 941371-9333, or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

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Research Shows Link Between Psilocybin and Benefits for Alzheimer ’s Disease

5 TIPS TO REPAIR SUMMER SUN DAMAGE AND RESTORE YOUR SKIN THIS FALL

According to a recent study from Frontiers in Neuroscience, psilocybin (otherwise known as, “magic mushrooms”) could be beneficial for folks with Alzheimer’s disease. In 2026, an elderly Japanese-American woman, who had been suffering from Alzheimer’s for 10 years, received a five gram dose of psilocybin. At this point in time, she was nonverbal and nonreactive to her surroundings. After consuming this dose of psilocybin, she had no response to it for a few hours (normally, the effects of these mushrooms start to take hold within an hour). However, about five hours after ingestion, the woman began to talk. After years of silence, she was able to speak in coherent sentences and tell stories about her life. She talked for nearly 24 hours, then lapsed back into her nonverbal state once the psilocybin effects wore off. These humble fungi have medicinal powers. They can help stimulate new neural connections within the brain. They can rewire human understanding. And as this research shows, they might even offer a portal back into the world for those with Alzheimer’s disease. For more information on this topic, contact Carol L. Roberts, MD, the lead practitioner at Best Medicine. Location: 2106 Bispham Rd., Sarasota. To schedule an appointment, call 941-404-8030 or visit BestMedicine.us.

Sources: 1. Lago M, Cerveira M, Simonet JX. “Transient multidomain functional improvement in advanced Alzheimer’s disease following high-dose psilocybin-containing mushroom administration: a case report.” Frontiers in Neuroscience. 2026 May 28;20:1813281. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2026.1813281. eCollection 2026. PMID: 42292331. 2. Zheng S, Ma R, Yang Y, Li G. “Psilocybin for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.” Frontiers in Neuroscience 2024 July 10;18:1420601. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1420601. PMID: 39050672; PMCID: PMC11266071.

After a summer filled with outdoor activities and afternoons at the beach, your skin might show visible signs of increased sun exposure. Dark spots, uneven tone, dryness, or changes in texture are common after months in the Florida sun. Fall is the perfect time to reset your skincare routine to help restore the skin’s health and radiance. Here are some ways to do just that. Prioritize Daily Sun Protection Florida’s UV exposure continues year-round. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen each day will protect your skin from further damage to promote long-term skin health. Replenish Your Skin’s Hydration Sun, heat, or humidity can impact your skin’s moisture barrier. Look for hydrating products with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and nourishing moisturizers to help restore a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. Make Antioxidants Part of Your Routine Antioxidants help shield the skin from environmental stressors. Vitamin C serums, as well as products with ingredients like Vitamin E, niacinamide, or green tea extract can help brighten the skin and smooth out the appearance of uneven tone. Refresh Skin with Professional Treatments Professional skincare treatments can help resolve concerns that often develop after sun exposure. Customized facials, chemical peels, microneedling, or other advanced aesthetic treatments can enhance texture, tone, and overall skin rejuvenation. Create a Personalized Skincare Plan Each person’s skin is unique. Working with an experienced skincare provider makes it easier to choose treatments or products with your personal goals in mind. The Center for Regenerative and Aesthetic Wellness believes that healthy skin begins with personalized care. This fall, take the opportunity to repair, refresh, and restore your skin with a plan that will serve your unique and specific needs. Location: 3530 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-893-4688 or visit Re3Healing.com. September 2026

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Beyond the Sound Bath: Sound Medicine, Intentionally Composed

This inspired the creation of Star Harmony Sound Medicine Ceremonies, intentionally composed for the Energetic Weather™ of each unique session, rather than just repeating the same sound experience every time. Aquarian Sound Medicine grew from founder Alissa Haggstrom’s personal healing journey and more than 10 years of exploring sound, timing, and the various ways in which the human system regulates and adapts. At the heart of her work is a defining belief that sound medicine must be intentionally composed for the person, the purpose, and the conditions present. This guides her to harness energetic influences and a carefully created environment in which all five senses are brought into relationship to create an immersive experience. Her vision is expanding as well. Along with these ceremonies in Sarasota and real-time livestreams, Aquarian Sound Medicine is also developing a mobile experience, sound-healing products, collaborative events, and a forthcoming studio. Sound healing does not have to be something encountered occasionally. It can become an integral part of how folks navigate their daily lives and wellness journeys. To learn more about these experiences, visit AquarianSoundMedicine.com.

jittawit21 from jittawit21/CanvaPro

What if the sound healing you need right now is different from yesterday’s needs? At Aquarian Sound Medicine, this question shapes everything the healers create. The body responds to new seasons, cycles, stress, emotions, and environments.

MICROBIOME EFFECTS ON COLORECTAL CANCER RISK

A study led by Harvard University and published in Cell Host & Microbe found that more than a decade after the removal of a precancerous mass known as an adenoma from the colon, changes in the gut microbiome and certain metabolites persist, potentially contributing to an elevated risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The study also found that a poor diet and limited physical activity are more closely associated with the abundance of these CRC-related gut microbes in people with a history of adenoma compared to adenoma-free individuals, suggesting that lifestyle choices play an important role in the gut microbiome of this high-risk group. CRC is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, and the removal of adenomas is one of the most effective prevention procedures. However, people that have undergone this measure still face an elevated risk of developing CRC. The study involved more than 700 participants—half with a history of adenoma and the other half without. Researchers observed that further research is needed to determine whether modifying the gut microbiome through diet and exercise reduces the risk of CRC.

BEST MEDICINE, Inc. Anxiety and Depression Thermography

Hormone Therapy

Peptide Therapy

Second Opinions Alternative Cancer Treatments

Infertility & Pregnancy Support

CAROL L. ROBERTS, M.D. 2106 Bispham Road • Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone: 941.404.8030 • www.bestmedicine.us 18

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A Healthy Gut: The Path to a Happy Brain by Dr. Laura Korman

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hen trying to uncover the root cause of a patient’s mental health issues, poor gut function is always high on the list. In fact, the gut is often called the “second brain.” Both the gut and brain share similar chemistry and communicate with signaling molecules and nerve impulses. Let’s explore how gut dysfunction affects brain health, and which steps you can take to resolve this issue and naturally improve mental wellness. It is often said, we are what we eat. But more accurately, we are what we can digest and absorb. Many folks experience bloating or distension after meals, which can cause pain, indigestion, burping, or reflux. These symptoms are not normal. They are signs of poor digestion. Over-the-counter medications such as Tums, Prilosec, or Omeprazole might temporarily relieve discomfort, but they do not improve the digestive process required to break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, so the body can absorb vital nutrients. Continued use of these medications can further

impair the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and B vitamins— all of which are important for healthy brain function. When the lower gut is dysfunctional, many folks deal with cramping, spasms, and bloating. Their bowel movements can also range from loose or hard stools to diarrhea, constipation, and impaction. These changes often reflect an imbalance in the microbiome, the beneficial bacteria in the colon. Gut bacteria can be either helpful or harmful, based on your diet, hydration, and exercise. They can also be negatively affected by antibiotics, genetically modified foods, artificial sweeteners, glyphosate, and chronic stress. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers the brain uses to regulate mood, motivation, reward signals, and cognition. The gut produces many of these neurotransmitters through beneficial bacteria, and humans rely on a diverse microbiome for optimal production of amino acids, B vitamins, and other cofactors essential for healthy brain function. A lesser-known way the gut affects brain health is through its connection with the vagus nerve. This nerve constantly transmits signals about microbiome balance, nutrient status, and intestinal inflammation directly to the brainstem. Its fibers project directly or indirectly to parts of the brain that control emotional regulation and resilience. It is also closely intertwined with dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with motivation and reward. When the gut is inflamed, the vagus nerve sends a distress signal to the brain, telling it to suppress dopamine—an evolutionary response that lowers social drive, so the

body can rest and heal. Chronic inflammation can cause this pathway to remain stuck in overdrive, which could show up as chronic fatigue or low motivation. The vagus nerve functions best when we are in a parasympathetic, or “rest-and-digest,” state rather than a sympathetic, or “fight-or-flight,” state. When the nervous system is stuck in stress response, vagal tone remains low, which can impair emotional regulation and shut down healthy gut function. Now that you understand the connection between gut and brain health, here are some natural ways to increase gut function and enhance mental well-being. Improvements in digestion are vital for absorbing the nutrients your brain needs. Focus on eating real, nutrient-dense foods, while avoiding processed or sugar-laden foods and beverages. Steer clear of artificial sweeteners and genetically engineered foods. Consider taking a digestive enzyme with meals as well. Practice stress-management strategies such as prayer, meditation, breathwork, and exercise. Make time for meaningful connection with family and friends, which helps lower stress and calms the parasympathetic nervous system. Unplug from technology, and step outside to connect with nature. These simple, but meaningful practices can stimulate the release of “feel-good” neurotransmitters. Our mental well-being requires healthy digestion, microbiome diversity, and nervous system regulation—all of which are influenced by our connection to the planet, our food, and the folks around us. Therefore, the most sustainable path to a healthier gut and a happier brain just might be to reconnect with real nutrients, nature, and those you love most. Arise Integrative Wellness, formally known as Korman Relief and Wellness, is located at 16954 Toledo Blade Blvd., Port Charlotte. For more information on Regenerative Medicine and other synergistic modalities to optimize recovery and longevity, call 941-6296700 or visit AriseIntegrativeWellness.com. September 2026

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Scoliosis and Fascia Restrictions: What’s the Connection?

If a child’s spinal curve becomes more severe, physical therapy with stretches and exercises is often used to stop the curve’s progression, and this can be effective. A spinal brace might also be able to keep the curve from worsening. But in some cases, these treatments do not help, and the curve continues to increase. If the scoliosis becomes severe, a surgery that places metal rods next to the spine will often be the next recommendation.

by Eric Winder, D.C.

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ver four million Americans have scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, and most feel pain as a result. However, the pain of scoliosis in both adults and children can often be relieved significantly to improve their quality of life. In children, we can usually reduce the curvature or halt its progression. These outcomes are possible through treatments that focus on releasing restrictions in connective tissue called fascia. Fascia is a tough, fibrous tissue that covers muscles, joints, bones, and other tissues. It contains millions of nerve endings that create position sense, or proprioception, telling our brains where our various body parts are in space. Scoliosis is the result of issues with position sense. Conventional medicine treats most cases of scoliosis as idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown. However, in my clinical experience, restricted fascia can play a large role in this spinal distortion and the pain that follows. Fascia restrictions can distort normal position sense, activating muscular imbalance which then causes abnormal curves in the spine.

CHILDREN A large number of scoliosis cases start in ei20

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ther childhood or adolescence. Many cases are even found by school nurses in routine screenings. In mild scoliosis cases, conventional medical care means simply monitoring the spine with X-ray exams to ensure the curvature doesn’t worsen. These exams generally take place every six months.

In my experience, while stretches and specific exercises are useful, treating restricted fascia is the most critical part of a non-surgical scoliosis treatment protocol. In children younger than 16, the fascia release treatments we use tend to reduce the curvature significantly, and in many mild cases, eliminate it altogether. Once a child receives a scoliosis diagnosis, the most important consideration is to stop the abnormal curves from increasing. In almost thirty years of using fascia release therapy to treat children with scoliosis, fascial treatments have almost always halted progression of the curves, often reducing them considerably.

ADULTS Scoliosis in most adults starts in their youth, but there are some situations where the curvature can develop after they reach adulthood. Trauma, surgeries, or other medical issues can sometimes contribute to this issue, but no matter the cause, adults with scoliosis are even more likely to feel pain than children with the same problem. In fact, more than three quarters of adults with scoliosis experience back pain. Many of these patients come to us feeling they have run out of options for finding relief or achieving a better quality of life. However, successful treatment of scoliosis pain in

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adults is similar to that in children, and the results are also excellent. The focus remains on fascia release, gentle stretches by a therapist, and specific exercises. Although the curvature itself usually cannot be changed much in adults, pain relief is still quite successful. An illustrative example of this is a 78-year-old woman, whom I will refer to as June. She had a lifetime of pain from her severe scoliosis that caused a visible posture deformity. Her pain increased in recent months, but she tried not to rely on medications that weren’t doing much to reduce the pain. Her discomfort was particularly intense while standing, even for less than 10 minutes. This limited her daily activities, causing her to spend most of her time either sitting or lying down to help minimize the severity of pain. Each patient is unique, but June’s treatment was like most cases of scoliosis I see. She received manual therapy to release fascial restriction, mainly in the spine and rib cage area. We also performed gentle stretches and gave her spinal exercises to do. Releasing the restricted fascia allowed position sense to correct tension in the spine, relieving muscle spasms and pain. Over time, her pain went from a 10 (where 10 is unbearable pain) to a three. This allowed June to resume an active lifestyle once again.

FINDING RELIEF With fascia therapy, most adults can experience enormous relief from the pain or discomfort of their scoliosis. Fascial therapies to remove restriction in connective tissue can significantly decrease muscle spasms, joint restriction, and painful motion. Some folks with scoliosis need occasional ‘tune-ups’ if their curvature causes new restrictions to develop. These tune-ups can alleviate the pain and restore range-of-motion. I hope fascia release therapy becomes more available in scoliosis care. The benefits can be profound for those who deal with pain from an abnormal spinal curvature. When folks experience pain relief without medication, it’s a win for their health and their lifestyle. Dr. Eric Winder has 29 years in practice and focuses on relieving pain and restoring alignment and motion through fascia release therapies. For more information, visit Gentlebay.com, or call 941-957-8390.


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The Root Cause of Why You Still Don’t Feel Well by Fred Harvey, MD

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ost of the folks who come to see me have already taken the right actions. They have cut out sugar, joined a gym, or started a supplement regimen. They have seen specialists and undergone lab tests. However, they still do not feel well. After 40 years of clinical practice—first in conventional medicine, then in functional medicine—I have come to identify the reason for this. It isn’t that folks are not putting in the effort to care for their health. It’s that they are often working with an incomplete roadmap. This missing piece has a name: Toxiflammation™. Toxicity and inflammation are not two

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separate issues. They are one problem that feeds itself. Toxicity—from pesticides in our food, heavy metals in our water, or petrochemicals in our air and cleaning products—causes inflammation. But here is what most physicians miss: Inflammation makes the body more toxic. It consumes resources the liver and lymphatic system need to clear this burden. The detoxification pathways often become impaired when we need them most. As this cycle deepens, the patient sitting across from me continues to suffer despite following the instructions of medical professionals. This is the Toxiflammation loop, and it’s the central concept behind my new e-book, Healthy Steps: The Root Cause Manual. I wrote this manual because folks deserve

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a clear, straightforward framework—not a biohacker’s supplement stack or another elimination diet that ignores the deeper question of why the body became reactive in the first place. The seven pillars I describe in this book represent the systematic intervention points where the Toxiflammation loop can be interrupted. These pillars are detoxification, movement, stress and mind-body health, food as medicine, gut health, sleep and recovery, and targeted supplementation. These are not exotic interventions. Movement, for instance, is not exercise for weight loss. Rather, it is a pump that drives the lymphatic system, the body’s passive detoxification network that has no dedicated pump of its own. Every walk is a clinical intervention. Every deep breath is a detoxification event. Understanding these pillars can change how patients relate to their own bodies, and in my experience, this shift is often what makes a sustainable difference in health. That same reframe can be used for sleep. The glymphatic system—the brain’s waste clearance network—is most active in deep non-REM sleep. This activity expands the space between brain cells by up to 60 percent to flush out inflammatory proteins, which can lead to cognitive decline. Insuf-


ficient sleep is not just fatigue. It is impaired brain detoxification. Healthy Steps: The Root Cause Manual serves as a bridge, a clinical framework accessible to anyone who wants to know the root cause of their symptoms, and what they can do to reclaim long-term wellness. It is not a substitute for personalized care. It is the foundation that makes personalized care more effective. Our bodies have the inner wisdom to heal. Our job is to recognize the obstacles, then get out of our own way. Fred Harvey, MD is a quadruple board-certified functional medicine physician and founder of Thrival.love with 40 years of clinical practice. He hosts The Healthy Steps Show on WMNF.org Tampa 88.5 FM. Healthy Steps: The Root Cause Manual is available at Thrival.love.

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has long referred to health as the smooth flow of energy, blood, and communication throughout the body. Modern research provides another perspective, demonstrating that acupuncture influences the nervous system, connective tissue, circulation, inflammatory pathways, and the release of naturally occurring neurotransmitters and endorphins. Many patients notice they leave an acupuncture session feeling deeply relaxed, but that is only part of what is occurring. Research indicates that acupuncture could help shift the autonomic nervous system to increased parasympathetic activity, the “rest, digest, and recover” state. This shift can enhance sleep, improve digestion, reduce muscle guarding, stimulate recovery after injuries, and decrease the perception of pain.

Finding Calm Through

Acupuncture by Christina Captain, DAOM, Dipl. Ac., L.Ac.

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n our fast-paced culture, many folks are starting to realize that wellness is about more than simply treating visible symptoms. There is a shift in momentum toward balance, resilience, recovery, and nervous system health. Instead of asking, “How do I get rid of this pain?” more folks are now asking, “Why does my body feel stuck in this state?”

illness, injury, emotional strain, and our always-connected digital lifestyle can trap the body in a prolonged state of sympathetic activation, the familiar “fight-or-flight” response.

That change has sparked a renewed interest in somatic therapies, modalities that work directly with the body to restore its regulation and improve well-being. Among these therapies, acupuncture has emerged as one of the most researched and widely utilized.

While this response is essential in true emergencies, living in this chronically heightened state can contribute to muscle tension, headaches, digestive complaints, anxiety, fatigue, poor sleep, chronic pain, and slower healing over time. This is where somatic therapies become valuable. The term somatic means, “relating to the body.” Rather than focusing solely on thoughts or symptoms, these therapies can restore healthy communication between the brain, nervous system, and body. The goal is not simply relaxation—it is regulation.

The nervous system is built to help human beings adapt. It constantly shifts between states of alertness, recovery, focus, and rest. However, chronic stress, poor sleep,

Acupuncture is uniquely positioned within this movement because it examines the body through numerous simultaneous pathways. Traditional East Asian Medicine

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One reason acupuncture fits so well into today’s wellness landscape is that it treats each person rather than a single diagnosis. Two folks can both have migraines, yet one develops headaches from chronic stress, while another experiences them with digestive dysfunction or hormonal changes. Acupuncture seeks to understand these underlying patterns and restore balance within the entire system instead of focusing on one isolated symptom. This whole-body method also complements conventional medicine exceptionally well. Patients who undergo physical therapy, recover from surgery, manage autoimmune conditions, deal with sports injuries, or live with chronic pain often incorporate acupuncture into their treatment plan to reinforce healing and improve their quality of life. Rather than replacing medical care, acupuncture frequently serves as an integrative therapy that enhances recovery and empowers folks to feel more resilient. The emphasis on resilience is particularly crucial. Resilience does not mean avoiding stress—it means nurturing the ability to recover from it more efficiently. Healthy nervous system regulation allows the body to respond to challenges, then return to a balanced state afterward. This ability influences nearly all aspects of health—from immune function and hormone regulation to


mood, concentration, digestion, and physical performance. Many folks also recognize that recovery deserves as much attention as productivity. Elite athletes have understood this principle for years, investing in recovery strategies because progress occurs in the midst of repair—not constant exertion. The same concept can be used in other facets of life. Busy professionals, parents, caregivers, students, and retirees all benefit when the nervous system has opportunities to reset and recharge. Acupuncture offers one such opportunity. By creating a therapeutic environment that encourages the body to move out of chronic stress mode into a state of restoration, patients often notice improvements that extend well beyond their original complaint. Better sleep, increased energy, improved focus, less anxiety, fewer digestive symptoms, and a much deeper sense of well-being often accompany successful treatment. As our understanding of health continues to evolve, the conversation is shifting from stress management to sustainable resilience. Somatic therapies—especially acupuncture—reflect this broader perspective through the realization that true wellness starts with a well-regulated nervous system. When the body feels safe, supported, and balanced, its remarkable capacity for healing can begin to unfold naturally. This could be one reason why acupuncture is no longer viewed as an alternative therapy. In modern culture, it is increasingly recognized as an evidence-based partner that can help folks recover, adapt, and thrive in an increasingly frenetic world. Dr. Captain is a highly skilled expert in the field of Acupuncture. She has performed over 200,000 patient treatments in her career which spans over two decades. In addition to lecturing and teaching across the country and globe, her practice in Sarasota serves as a training facility for healthcare practitioners all over the U.S. and internationally. Dr. Captain’s knowledge and enthusiasm for wellness has earned her a nationwide reputation as a qualified lecturer, keynote speaker, and expert teacher. For more information, visit ScanSRQ.com or call 941-951-1119.

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Feature Story

Introduction to Somatic Therapies Reconnecting Mind and Body in an Overstimulated World by Sheldon C. Baker

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e are often told to “just breathe” when we feel distressed, overreactive, overstimulated, hyper-vigilant, exhausted or digitally overloaded. Stress is a common consequence of modern life, and sometimes, a few deep breaths can provide relief. However, when stress becomes ever-present and deep-seated, we may need a bit more help to release the tension in our muscles and to lower our heightened blood pressure out of fight-flight-or-freeze mode. Somatic healing practices can provide a reset through movement and body awareness. According to Gina Nick, Ph.D., a naturopathic physician with 25 years of experience and an integrative medical practice in Los Angeles, “Somatic therapies are designed to address physical tension and release the stored emotions and stressors housed in the body.” These practices—which can be performed at home or with the help of a professional—forge a healthy, fluent connection between the mind and body by creating heightened self-awareness and boosting recovery and resilience. The result is sustained calmness and an improved ability to achieve serenity, focus and cognitive clarity.

NOTICING THE BODY’S MESSAGES

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“Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your thoughts. It changes your biology,” explains Daniel Amen, M.D., a double board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist and author of multiple national bestsellers, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Pain: Breaking the Doom Loop to Heal Chronic Physical and Emotional Pain. “When stress hormones stay elevated for too long, they increase muscle tension, fire up inflammation and contribute to chronic pain. They also disrupt sleep, impair digestion and can even reduce blood flow to the brain, making you feel anxious, exhausted or mentally foggy.”

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Somatic therapy relies on interoception— awareness of body sensations—to identify and release stress and trauma. These sensations originate from the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Examples of negative body sensations include clenching muscles, racing pulse, stomach churning, temperature fluctuations, tightness around the chest and tingling. Steven Bradshaw, a psychologist, somatic experiencing practitioner and founder of Beyond Psychology Center, in Los Angeles, explains that the autonomic nervous system features two sub-systems that regulate safety: the sympathetic nervous system that mobilizes the body for action in dangerous situations and the parasympathetic nervous system to promote calmness and recovery. Chronic stress or trauma can get stuck in the sympathetic nervous system, causing a state of constant alertness. “The body is safety for the mind,” he remarks. “I use a mind-body approach that engages your inner healer to move from states of anxiety, burnout, disconnection and pain into states of goodness, flow and a deep sense of belonging in your own body.” Aimie Apigian, M.D., MS, MPH, founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated and author of The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It explains, “Somatic therapies are body-based approaches that work at the level of sensation. Sometimes that means creating a sensation of safety in the body, and sometimes it means creating the sensation of overcoming a moment of powerlessness from the past, often through movement, by finally doing the self-defense movement you were not able to do when the real event happened. The benefit is that we uncouple a sensation from the meaning of danger it got paired with. That can be an internal sensation, like the twisting of your gut, or an external one, like a particular sight or smell. The sensation stops automatically signaling danger, and the body gets to learn a new response rather than only understanding the old one.”


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MIND-BODY PRACTICES “As anyone who has ever danced knows, our feelings can be more readily accessed through movement and getting in touch with our body’s sensations, which is what somatic therapy does,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., a board-certified internist specializing in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sleep and pain, as well as the author of several books, including Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps: Eliminating the Root Causes of Chronic Pain. While conventional talk therapy focuses on using the rational mind to release embedded stress, daily body-awareness activities can help people learn to process their tension while building emotional resilience. Amen recommends starting with basic practices, including slow diaphragmatic breathing, daily body movements, good quality sleep and time spent in nature. One of his favorite calming strategies is the butterfly hug to soothe the brain and body. “Simply place your hands on your opposite shoulders and gently stroke them downward,” he explains. Other self-somatic therapies can calm the body and mind, creating a sense of safety,

which quiets racing thoughts and brightens the person’s outlook. “The aim of a daily practice is to create a sensation of internal safety or a felt sense of support in the body,” Apigian counsels. Four-Count Breath: An excellent tension reliever and mental refresh, the four-count breath can be performed anywhere at any time. Inhale fully while counting to four, hold for four, exhale for four and pause for four. Repeat up to five times. Body Scan: This exercise is all about interoception and is done by noticing sensations from head to toe while sitting or lying down comfortably. Full-Body Shake: Standing up and shaking arms, legs and shoulders for 30 seconds not only loosen limbs but also relieves pent-up stress. Rolling the head in a circular motion can also release knotted tension at the base of the neck. Humming: The vibrations from humming (either a tune or single note like an “Om”) physically calms the vagus nerve, which bidirectionally carries information via electrical and chemical messages to and from the brain. A 2023 study published in the medical journal Cureus involving 23

participants revealed that humming significantly lowered stress biomarkers compared to physical activity and sleep, with positive impacts on the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce the fight-or-flight response. Mindful Movement: Moving with intention and body awareness can deepen inthe-moment joy and appreciation while also reducing anxiety, releasing tension and improving mood. Start with deep breathing, then turn attention inward for a headto-toe body check while moving. This can be practiced while washing the dishes or participating in a fitness class. Guided Imagery: A technique that can be performed alone or with a therapist, guided imagery utilizes breathwork and meditation while envisioning an object or scene, using all of the senses. Capitalizing on the mind-body connection, multi-sensory visualization reduces stress and relaxes muscles.

GUIDED THERAPIES

Long-term, somatic therapies with the help of expert practitioners can result in creating healthier habitual emotional patterns, which contribute to repairing mood imbalance and creating sustained well-being. September 2026

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Feature Story

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acceptance, centeredness and empowerment.

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases physical tension to enhance relaxation. It focuses on the skull, spine and craniosacral system, which includes the cerebrospinal fluid, fascia and soft tissues surrounding the central nervous system. A 2023 study published in Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland) involving male firefighter cadets found that five weekly sessions of craniosacral therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone.

Rolfing somatic movement is a touch-based technique designed to unblock or release protective posture patterns such as shrugged shoulders, bent postures and clenched jawlines from unresolved stress, anxiety and trauma. According to the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute, Rolfing resets the body’s stress response by releasing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue network that surrounds, separates and holds together the body’s muscles, bones, organs, blood vessels and nerve fibers.

EYE-MOVEMENT THERAPIES

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) centers on moving the eyes in a specific manner while being guided to process traumatic or stressful memories, which are stored differently than normal or happy ones. Reprocessing helps to repair mind injury caused by the traumatic event. Brainspotting (BSP), a newer neuro-based therapy, uses eye position or “brainspots” to access and release unresolved emotional energy stored in the limbic system and subcortical region of the brain. Compared to EMDR, BSP is more somatic and intuitive. In a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, just one 40-minute session of EMDR or BSP was found to have beneficial effects in processing distressing memories.

FINDING RELIEF AND RESOLUTION

“Somatic therapies recognize that many emotional and physical symptoms are protective responses rather than a mental disorder, weakness or failure,” says Annie Wright, a licensed psychotherapist and relational trauma specialist. Acknowledging and observing our discomfort paves the way for a healing conversation with ourselves. Sheldon C. Baker is a contributing editor to numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications.

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Trauma-sensitive yoga or trauma-informed yoga is designed to cultivate a compassionate awareness of what is happening in the body in the present moment and to develop the ability to take effective action based on that knowledge. It empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental environment and regulate the nervous system. A 2018 qualitative analysis published in International Journal of Stress Management identified key emotional themes that emerged from engaging in trauma-sensitive yoga, including gratitude, compassion, relatedness,

Somatic experiencing is a specialized therapy designed to retrain the nervous system by processing trauma in small, manageable sessions. Instead of focusing on the story of the trauma, the therapist guides the client to notice physical sensations, while providing a feeling of safety and well-being. This treatment approach releases vestigial negativity and creates a new, intuitive, more deeply self-aware and empowered way of sustaining emotional well-being. A 2021 literature review published in European Journal of Psychotraumatology reported that somatic experiencing positively impacts symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, notably reducing affective and somatic complaints while improving overall well-being.

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Conscious Eating

Nutritious Nachos Yummy Ideas Everyone Will Love by Maya Whitman

“It can be tempting to cover everything in cheese or really pile on the meat, but you can actually dial down these indulgent elements and add so much flavor in healthier ways,” says James Rayner, senior editorial manager of FoodFaithFitness, an online resource for simple and healthy recipe ideas.

Traditionally, nachos are served as an appetizer, but they can easily be elevated to main meal status. Cumin-spiced mushroom and walnut vegan nachos, chicken nachos with zesty Greek yogurt crema, sheet pan sweet potatoes and black beans, or Mediterranean-based whole-grain pita chips with smashed garbanzos and feta are only a few inspiring examples.

MOUTHWATERING UPGRADES Dan Whalen, a lifelong enthusiast for this popular comfort food, authored the cookbook Nachos for Dinner: Surprising Sheet Pan Meals the Whole Family Will Love. “What I love about nachos is that you can make them with leftovers. Just open your fridge and find

Whalen, also a food blogger and the founder of the online recipe hub The Food in My Beard, reminds us that switching things up doesn’t require eliminating our favorite fixings. “One secret to using indulgent toppings is to make sure everything is chopped up small,” he explains. “You always want to do this anyway, so each chip can hold a mix of all the different ingredients. Doing this with more indulgent nacho toppings allows you to use less but still feel like it is prevalent in the overall dish.” Steak or pulled pork lovers can opt for shredded leaner cuts, while seasoned, sautéed ground turkey or chicken breast serves as an excellent substitute for ground beef. Vegans can enjoy meaty textures with sautéed, crumbled tempeh or tofu. And everyone can enjoy the flavorful, hearty protein provided by pinto, black or red kidney beans. Rayner notes, “Whatever protein you’re going for, don’t forget to add plenty of seasoning. You can also try toasted pepitas [pumpkin seeds] or crushed almonds for added taste and texture.” Whalen suggests upgrading the chips, explaining, “Using crispy plantain chips cuts out the extra carbs and fat in traditional tortilla chips. You can even use dehydrated or baked plantains instead of fried.”

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achos are a classic favorite for fall gatherings, sports parties, game nights and cozy weekends, but traditional versions can quickly become overloaded with oversized portions, excess sodium, unhealthy fats and highly processed ingredients. To make nachos a healthier option, consider making a few simple changes that balance favorite toppings with nutrient-dense ingredients.

a combo of things,” he says. It all begins with a chip base, protein source, colorful vegetables and fiber-rich toppings such as avocado, fire-roasted tomatoes, fresh salsas, homemade slaws, pickled onions, tangy citrus splashes or fresh chiles.

Although traditionally Tex-Mex, nachos can be most exciting with creative variation. For Rayner, the use of Indian spices can tantalize taste buds and broaden the possibilities. “Think generously spiced tandoori chicken with red onion, cilantro and a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and mint,” muses the editor. He also favors the idea of a deconstructed Greek gyro with “thinly sliced lamb or beef, charred bell peppers, chopped herbs and a garlicky Greek yogurt drizzle to finish.” September 2026

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Whalen embraces Italian flavors, recreating a loaded sandwich. “I use all the typical meats, and when it comes out of the oven, I add a ‘salad’ of romaine lettuce, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini.” Drizzling punchy sauces such as sweet yet savory Mexican chamoy made from pickled apricots, plums or mangoes, or bright and spicy Middle Eastern green shatta can add an exhilarating element to any nacho dish.

ASSEMBLY TIPS For optimal tortilla nachos every time, Rayner recommends briefly toasting the chips in the oven for two to three minutes to unlock nutty flavors and enhance the crunch. “After that, layer your toppings. Veggies can release a lot of moisture, so scatter your protein over your chip base first, then cheese and vegetables afterward. Repeat the layers if you want to go all out.”

Courtesy of Dan Whalen

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

CHICKEN NACHOS

A cheesy classic gets a makeover with protein-packed shredded chicken. YIELD: 4 SERVINGS 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen 10 oz baked tortilla chips (about 8 cups) 2¼ cups cooked, shredded chicken breast 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed 1¾ cups shredded, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese 1 tomato, diced 2 avocados, diced 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional) ⅓ cup green onions, sliced ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ⅓ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (for serving) Salsa (for serving) Preheat the oven to 350° F. If using frozen corn, thaw it. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded chicken, black beans, corn and cheese over the chips. Add another layer of chips and top with the remaining chicken, black beans, corn and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeño slices, green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately with nonfat Greek yogurt and salsa on the side. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness. 30

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PLANTAIN NACHOS

YIELD: 4 DINNER SERVINGS OR 8 APPETIZERS 1 12-oz bag plantain strips (about 80 strips) 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 1½ cups carnitas 1 cup cooked black beans (homemade or from a can) 1½ cup shredded Chihuahua cheese ½ cup lime crema ¼ cup Habanero hot sauce 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and thinly sliced 1 lime, quartered and sliced into small wedges Preheat the broiler to low with a rack about 4 inches from the heat. Arrange the plantain chips evenly on a sheet pan, overlapping them as little as possible. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on the chips, distributing it evenly. Add the carnitas, then the beans and top with the Chihuahua cheese. Broil until the cheese has melted and the chips are starting to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. (Watch carefully to make sure they don’t burn.) Remove from the oven. Drizzle the crema and hot sauce on the nachos and top with the avocado and lime. Serve hot. Recipe courtesy of Dan Whalen.


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MEXICAN MINI BELL PEPPER NACHOS

Satisfy nacho cravings without the chips. YIELD: 6 SERVINGS ½ lb lean ground beef 26 mini bell peppers 6 Tbsp salsa 1 cup shredded, reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, packed (4 oz) ½ cup tomato, diced ¼ cup green onion, diced 1 large avocado, diced Cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Preheat oven to 400° F. Heat a medium pan over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat into pieces, until no longer pink inside. Cut the stem off each pepper and cut in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and white flesh. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the peppers on it, cut sides up. Stir the salsa into the cooked beef and fill the peppers with the beef mixture. Sprinkle with the cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, about 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle on the tomato, green onion, avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness.

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Homeopathy

Homeopathy Under the Microscope An Evidence-Based Look at a Controversial Therapy by Athena Eamon

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Reviewed by Lauri Grossman, DC, CCH, RSHom(NA)

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o evaluate evidence-based research for a health treatment, it is important to comprehend the research methodology, study design, included and excluded evidence, and the potential existence of bias in the study’s design, execution or funding. This understanding is essential before drawing any conclusions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of medical treatments with minimal bias and determining if an intervention surpasses placebo effects. However, individualized homeopathy poses unique methodological challenges that differ 32 2

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from testing a standardized pharmaceutical drug. Unlike conventional RCT drug trials, where all participants with the same diagnosis typically receive the same medication and dose and are evaluated uniformly over specified time periods, classical homeopathy is tailored to the individual patient rather than the disease diagnosis. Two patients with migraines, seasonal allergies or arthritis may receive different remedies based on their physical symptoms, emotional state, sleep patterns, food cravings, environmental sensitivities, personality traits and constitution. As a result, researchers designing

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and conducting homeopathy trials face the following challenges that hinder the use of testing models developed for single pharmaceutical compounds: • Participants with the same diagnosis often receive different remedies, making it difficult to standardize interventions across a trial. • Homeopaths frequently adjust remedies as symptoms evolve, whereas conventional RCTs require treatments to remain fixed throughout the study. • Homeopathic care includes lengthy consultations, individualized assessments,


follow-up visits and therapeutic relationships that may independently contribute to outcomes beyond the remedy itself.

conditions and post-surgical recovery, but the certainty of evidence remains low to moderate due to study limitations.

• Patients may seek improvements in well-being, energy, resilience or quality of life in addition to symptom relief, yet clinical trials measure only disease-specific endpoints.

The Scientific Debate Extends Beyond Clinical Trials

What Clinical Studies Demonstrate

Many studies on homeopathy exist, but their quality differs greatly. Some treatments, such as Arnica montana for pain management, show more promising evidence than others. Systematic reviews, which are toptier research tools that compile, evaluate and synthesize empirical studies, find the evidence on homeopathy inconclusive due to issues like small sample sizes, inconsistent study designs, varying prescribing methods, difficulty blinding individualized treatments, publication bias and poor methodologies. These limitations prevent the determination of whether benefits are due to specific homeopathic effects, nonspecific therapeutic effects, placebo responses or a combination of all three.

Some Reviews Reach Divergent Conclusions

Systematic reviews can reach different conclusions due to varying inclusion criteria. One review might include all studies regardless of quality, while another might focus only on larger trials or low-riskof-bias studies. These design differences affect the conclusions. For example, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council found no reliable evidence supporting homeopathy for any health condition after analyzing only studies with strict methodological criteria. By contrast, a meta-analysis conducted by the University of Bern in Germany specifically focused on individualized homeopathy. The analysis concluded that statistically significant effects may exist for treating conditions such as childhood diarrhea, respiratory

Perhaps the greatest controversy about homeopathy pertains to its mechanism rather than its clinical outcomes. Many homeopathic medicines are diluted beyond Avogadro’s limit, leaving no measurable molecules of the original substance. Conventional chemistry and pharmacology struggle to explain how these highly diluted remedies could produce biological effects. Homeopathy researchers argue that these findings, along with advances in understanding complex biological systems, justify further investigation into mechanisms involving nanostructures, water organization, electromagnetic signaling and other physical processes that are not yet fully understood.

A Growing Consensus for More Research Arises

Scientists on both sides of the homeopathy debate agree that future research must combine the methodological rigor of randomized trials with study designs that more accurately reflect clinical practice. This requires larger sample sizes, transparent

reporting, standardized outcome measures, longer follow-up periods and independent replication across multiple research centers. Additionally, homeopathy study designs should better align the research methodology with the intervention being studied without sacrificing scientific rigor. The goal is to maintain the standard for evidence while formulating research questions that accurately represent the personalized nature of homeopathy practice. This approach will yield clearer insights into where homeopathy offers meaningful benefits, where it falls short and how it can best contribute to evidence-informed, patient-centered integrative healthcare. Athena Eamon is a researcher and parent with nearly two decades of experience studying and using homeopathy, integrative health and whole-person wellness. Dr. Lauri Grossman has more than 30 years of experience as an integrative care expert, chiropractor, classical homeopath and global educator. Underwritten by Grato Health, in operation since 1987, dedicated to advancing health and wellness through natural, holistic solutions that support the body’s ability to heal.

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Fit Body

Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility

Simple Poses for Real-Life Strength and Stability by Marlaina Donato

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Yoga-inspired movements can reduce stiffness, support recovery, improve balance and help prevent injury—regardless of age, fitness level or experience. The goal is not performance or perfection; it is about maintaining freedom of movement and helping the body function more comfortably in daily activities such as walking, lifting, reaching, driving, cleaning and gardening.

NON-DEMANDING POSTURES

Tim Senesi, a Southern California yoga instructor who offers instructional videos for beginners on his Yoga With Tim YouTube channel, says, “Loss of mobility is one of the primary drivers of injury and physical decline later in life. A consistent yoga practice is one of the most powerful things a person can do to stay functional and pain-free at any age. It gives us a daily opportunity to counter all the sitting, screen time and repetitive patterns that compress the body over time. The body is remarkably intelligent. Yoga helps us get out of its way and meets you where you are.” Noting that non-demanding yoga postures like Tree Pose and Mountain Pose encourage ankle, hip and core stability over time, Senesi points out, “We’re lengthening tissues under load and 34

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oga is often regarded as a practice reserved for the ultra-flexible, deeply spiritual or highly athletic—but at its core, it can simply be a practical tool for helping the body move and feel better. Individuals with compromised mobility can greatly benefit from intentional movements that incorporate stretching, balance and breath awareness. Rather than focusing on achieving perfect poses or extreme flexibility, functional yoga emphasizes sustainable movement patterns that improve joint health, posture, stability and body awareness.

teaching the body to own the space it’s moving into. As we age, this becomes critical.” For beginners, he recommends less intensive types of yoga such as hatha or vinyasa slow flow. “Aim for consistency over intensity, and don’t underestimate short sessions,” he counsels. “Ten to 20 minutes done consistently every day will take you further than a long class once a week. The nervous system learns through repetition, not duration, and short, frequent practice is where real change happens.” Senesi recommends the following poses, adding that notable mobility improvements are possible within two to three weeks of consistent practice: Cat-Cow for spinal mobility and low-back health: On hands and knees, inhale as the belly drops and chest lifts, then exhale as the spine rounds up. Let the breath lead the movement. Low Lunge to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting by opening the hip flexors: Step one foot forward, lower the back knee to the floor and breathe. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per side.

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Reclined Supine Twist to improve rotational mobility: Lying on the back, draw one knee to the chest and guide it across the body. Hold each side at least 60 seconds. Legs Up the Wall for recovery, improved circulation and calming of the nervous system: Sit sideways as close to a wall as possible before lying down and extending the legs vertically against the wall. Rest in this position for five to 10 minutes.

LIVING ROOM YOGA

Tamantha Yanders, a yoga instructor and owner of Living Room Yoga, in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, notes that poor posture is a learned habit, suggesting that rounded shoulders, forward head positions and tight hips can improve with yoga-inspired routines. “Every time you access a joint with movement, you are lubricating the mechanism and supporting mobility,” she notes, adding that even individuals that are not very flexible can benefit from such movements. As a starting point for those with limited mobility, Yanders recommends a gentle or chair yoga class, or even a few private classes for personalized attention. “Most importantly, I support learning to work with how your body is now, not how you think it should be,” she says. Here are a few moves in her arsenal; aim for 10 to 20 repetitions per side: Side Bends: Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and place hands on the hips. Slowly bend the upper body to the right, return to the center and then bend the upper body to the left. Focus on lengthening the spine on each inhale and deepening the stretch on each exhale. Seated Ankle on Thigh: Sit straight up in a chair, lift one ankle and place it on the opposite thigh. Use one hand to gently press down on the knee of the crossed leg to open the hip. Then cup the crossed knee with the opposite hand and draw it across the body toward the opposite shoulder to stretch the gluteus muscle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing normally. Head Twist: Gently and slowly turn the head over each shoulder to release neck tension, keeping eyes level. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.


Green Living

Home Energy Resilience Smarter Ways To Prepare for Outages and Rising Costs

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aving backup options in place for unexpected power outages, severe weather events and grid vulnerabilities ensures that life can go on during emergencies without relying on fossil fuel-based systems. According to Environment America, approximately 5 million U.S. households are powered by solar energy and more than 295,000 Americans rely on backup battery systems that store solar energy from their rooftops for use during power outages. As storms, grid strain, rising utility costs and unpredictable outages become more common, many homeowners are rethinking what energy security means to them. Even those that are not ready to fully commit to rooftop systems are looking for more sustainable and safer options than gasoline-powered generators. An emerging market includes battery-powered

home backup systems, as well as portable, solar-powered generators that can keep essentials like refrigerators, medical devices, lights and internet routers running. These smarter strategies are transforming the idea of preparedness into independence.

HOME INTEGRATED SYSTEMS

According to Marriele Mango, senior project director at the national nonprofit Clean Energy Group, a whole-home battery solution such as a Tesla Powerwall can back up an entire home for hours or longer. It stores electricity derived from utility power or solar panels and kicks in during a grid outage to power essential appliances such as the refrigerator, well pump, internet router, lighting, air conditioning and security systems. When paired with solar, the system can provide indefinite backup power, assuming solar is available to recharge the battery.

Drazen Zigic/shutterstock

by Zak Logan

“We’re finding that battery storage systems have a useful life well beyond the typical 10-year warranty, with newer models able to charge and discharge much more frequently than older models,” Mango explains. “The shift from nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is not only more affordable, but also has a longer useful life. It is also a safer chemistry, as it is more resistant to overheating. Where available, a battery can actually generate income for a homeowner during clear sky days, unlike a gas generator, which solely exists to provide backup power.” “Battery technology has advanced significantly,” says Lesley McCain, executive director of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association. “Today’s systems store more electricity, take up less space and can last well over a decade with normal use. Many are managed through smartphone apps that let homeowners monitor energy production, battery levels and household usage in real time.”

PORTABLE SOLUTIONS

Portable power stations are different from generators in several ways. They do not use combustion engines to create power, so they are completely silent and produce zero harmful emissions. These compact, rechargeable battery units provide electricity on demand and on the go, making them ideal for both outdoor and indoor use such as camping, tailgating, off-grid living or emergency home backup during outages. Because they are standalone plug-and-play systems, rather than permanent home infrastructure, they do not need county permits, inspections or utility agreements. Different sizes and capacities are available. Smaller portable units can power smartphones, tablets and LED lights. Mid-sized stations are best for laptops, mini refrigerators, fans, internet routers and small medical devices. Larger units, designed for home backup, RV trips or longer offgrid use, are ideal for powering TVs, small kitchen appliances such as coffeemakers and blenders, or even power tools. “Some permissionless plug-in batteries can be charged by smaller solar arrays, even just one or two panels, rather than an entire rooftop,” Mango points out. “Pairing September 2026

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a plug-in battery with even a small solar array could greatly extend the duration of backup power available.”

GETTING STARTED

McCain advises homeowners to understand their average electricity usage, how much backup power they actually need and whether their roof is suitable for solar before purchasing a solar and battery system. Her best tip is to obtain multiple quotes from certified installers and ask for a comprehensive, easy-to-understand estimate of energy production, expected savings, warranty coverage and how the battery will perform during an outage. “Here in Illinois, many residents begin by subscribing to a community solar program, which allows them to receive credits on their electric bill from a nearby solar farm without installing panels on their home,” McCain suggests. “When they’re ready, they can explore adding rooftop solar and battery storage,” she explains. Mango notes, “Subscription community solar models help with reducing utility bills without the need to invest in an individual solar-plus-storage system. However, that also means there are no household resilience benefits. In other words, community solar won’t keep your lights on in the event of an outage.” For renters, portable solar panels like the Renogy 200-watt foldable solar panel are an entry-level apartment backup. In addition, renters may be able to sign up for a community solar program or a community choice aggregation program that allows local governments to procure greener power from an alternative supplier on behalf of their residents.

Healthy Kids

The Power of Movement Supporting Healthy Childhood Development Through Balance by Christina Connors

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alance is about far more than standing on one foot. From climbing the monkey bars to sitting still at circle time, this foundational motor skill influences how children move, learn, feel and interact with the world around them, often in unexpected ways. While most of us know the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste and smell—there is a sixth, less obvious sense doing constant work behind the scenes: the vestibular system. Located in the inner ear, it monitors every tilt, spin, jump and turn of the head, sending this information directly to the brain. Pediatric occupational therapist Dr. Chanie Messinger describes it as our movement and balance system, likening it to an internal global positioning system (GPS). Before a child can focus on reading, writing or sitting through a lesson, the brain must first understand where the body is in space.

MOVEMENT AND SELF-REGULATION WORK TOGETHER A 2025 feasibility study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health tracked preschoolers in four Massachusetts childcare centers through a 10-week program focused on physical literacy, pairing short, playful lessons with active free play. Children in the intervention group showed significant improvements in gross motor skills and behavioral self-regulation compared to peers that maintained their usual routines. These findings add to a growing body of evidence that movement and self-regulation are interconnected aspects of childhood development.

EACH CHILD’S MOVEMENT EXPERIENCE IS UNIQUE

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Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic health and getting back to basics.


ing) may indicate a child's need for more movement. Messinger advises, “I always encourage parents to ask, 'I wonder what my child’s body is trying to tell me?’”

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SIMPLE WAYS TO BUILD BALANCE AT HOME

Not all children experience movement the same way. Occupational therapist Crae Akerson, with a private practice in Stamford, Connecticut, explains that children have varying neurological “ceilings” for vestibular input. In other words, their nervous systems are able to process balance, spatial orientation and movement in unique ways before they become overwhelmed. A child with a high ceiling constantly seeks movement, which may appear as restlessness or getting into trouble. A child with a low ceiling quickly reaches their limit and avoids movement altogether, often seeming shy or staying at the edge of recess. Neither pattern is a character flaw; both are nervous systems expressing different needs. Proprioception, the body’s sense of pressure and position, can help regulate these patterns. Akerson recommends activities like crab walks, wheelbarrow walks, jumping, cartwheels and leapfrog. As she explains, any activity that applies pressure on the body tends to calm and organize the system, supporting focus, motor planning and emotional regulation.

SCREENS ARE NOT THE ENEMY

Messinger emphasizes that digital screens are not inherently bad. “The bigger question is how we are using them and whether we are creating healthy boundaries around them,” she explains. Prolonged periods in one position—head down, body still—are simply crowding out the climbing, crawling and balancing that growing bodies need. “You can learn about riding a bike by watching videos,” she points out. “But eventually, you have to get on the bike.”

ENCOURAGE PURPOSEFUL BOREDOM Unstructured free play is as important as organized activities. Messinger has watched children choose a cardboard box over an expensive toy time and again. During open-ended play, kids develop creativity, negotiation skills, confidence and body awareness simultaneously, and such lessons endure well into adulthood.

RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR MORE MOVEMENT Signs such as difficulty sitting still, frequent clumsiness, poor posture, trouble winding down at bedtime and constant sensory-seeking (crashing, chewing and fidget-

Movement activities can be fun for the entire family, inviting creative play and a sense of accomplishment. They are designed to build core strength, coordination and body awareness. None of these require perfection, equipment or a therapy clinic in the basement. They simply need snippets of time throughout the day dedicated to swinging, spinning, climbing and resting. • Animal Walks: Invite kids to travel sideways like a crab, leap like a frog or waddle like a duck. • Pillow Obstacle Course: Create a safe sequence of challenges across the living room, using blankets, bed pillows and couch cushions to construct stepping stones, a crawl tunnel, a small mountain and even a jumping area with built-in crash pad for safe falling. • Balance Beam: Using a fallen log in the backyard or a line of painter’s tape on the patio, invite kids to walk a straight light and maintain their balance. • Dance Break: A five-minute dance break between homework subjects is a great way to keep kids active while helping to develop their balance and spatial skills. • Stretch and Breathe: A few stretches and deep breaths before bed can help calm the nervous system and signal the brain to wind down. Balance is not a skill children master once and move past. It is a practice they revisit repeatedly, in bodies that are always growing and changing. Organized sports, gymnastics or swim lessons each build their own type of coordination and confidence, but they are most effective alongside ample unscheduled time to simply move. When children's bodies feel steady, their minds tend to follow. Christina Connors is a burnout prevention specialist, keynote singer and author. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com. September 2026

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Natural Pet

NOTICING THE SYMPTOMS

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

Chronic, low-grade gut inflammation in dogs or cats manifests through observable nervous system responses such as pacing, panting, difficulty settling, leash reactivity and fear-based reactions that seem disproportionate to the situation. Trouble focusing during training, especially with digestive upset, is also common. These signs alone do not confirm a gut-related cause but warrant veterinary attention to rule out other conditions.

The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

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nxious behavior in dogs and cats has traditionally been seen as a training problem or brain chemistry issue, often treated with obedience work, management tools or behavior medication. However, recent veterinary research points to another piece of the puzzle sitting lower in the body: the gut. Emerging science on the gut-brain axis suggests that an inflamed or imbalanced gut can send stress signals that influence mood, focus and reactivity, indicating that some anxious behavior is a physiological issue rather than purely behavioral.

UNDERSTANDING THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION

One case, Sadie, a 5-year-old Labrador retriever, had little success with multiple anti-anxiety medications and a behavioral trainer. Her history revealed chronic soft stool and repeated antibiotic courses for suspected colitis, previously unconnected to her behavior. A gut-focused protocol, combined with her existing medication, led to steady improvement over several weeks.

A 2025 study in Scientific Reports examined gut microbiota composition in companion dogs and found that specific bacterial groups, including Blautia, were consistently associated with higher owner-reported anxiety and aggression scores. Additional research is needed before researchers can conclude whether specific microbial flora actually cause anxiety or if high-stress environments and anxious behaviors physically alter the canine gut environment.

Integrative veterinarian Odette Suter, author of What Your Vet Never Told You: Secrets to Supporting Peak Health for Your Animal, criticizes symptom-chasing in both conventional and holistic pet care. “There is too much focus on the symptoms and alleviating symptoms, and not so much about asking why, what is going on. We really need to understand the physiology, the pathophysiology and what’s happening when the animals aren’t healthy.”

TatyanaGl from Getty Images/CanvaPro

The vagus nerve directly connects the gut and the brain, carrying signals in both directions. According to a 2024 review article published in Veterinary Medicine International, microbes in the gut can influence canine mental health through sev-

eral interconnected pathways, including neural signaling via the vagus nerve, an immune response like inflammation, and the microbial production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The review also notes that anxiety disorders in dogs have been linked to dysbiosis—an imbalance in the gut microbiome, when beneficial microorganisms decrease and harmful ones overgrow.

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ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES

Looking at the whole animal and viewing anxiety and digestive upset as interconnected problems allows caregivers to ask a broader question: What is driving both? Suter also notes that fixing the gut is complex, pointing to numerous factors, including hormone balance, which often need attention alongside gut issues.

IMPROVING THE DIET Small, consistent changes at home can support gut balance alongside veterinary care. Moving away from highly processed diets toward fresh, minimally processed food may promote healthier gut flora over time. Targeted probiotic support can help restore microbial diversity, although strain and dose vary by individual and should be


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discussed with a veterinarian. Digestive enzymes support the breakdown of food, and long-chain, omega-3 fatty acids sourced from fish oil or algae have been shown in a 2007 study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association to regulate inflammatory and immune responses in dogs. Introduce any new supplement gradually and consult the pet’s veterinarian, especially for animals that are already undergoing treatment.

ASSEMBLING A HEALTH TEAM For pets on anxiety medication, the gutmind connection is not a reason to stop it, but rather invites asking additional questions with the veterinary team, such as, “What else can support the body as a whole?” Citing a concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suter states, “That’s what the Chinese call the root and branch approach. The focus is on the root, but also on the branches, which are the symptoms, just to make sure the animal is not too uncomfortable.” Medication may calm the brain’s response, but if the gut remains inflamed, caregivers may be addressing only part of the issue. Gut health and mental health are interconnected for dogs and cats, and treating them separately may explain why some anxious pets never fully settle. A whole-animal view—one that includes the gut—provides the pet and the veterinary team a comprehensive approach.

Healing Ways

Healing Harmonies

How Sound Therapy Supports Modern Wellness by Zak Logan

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s stress, anxiety, burnout and sleep struggles rise, many people are searching for wellness approaches that feel calming, accessible and noninvasive. According to Metatech Insights, the sound therapy market is expected to grow 9.5 percent over the next decade. A number of these types of sessions are rapidly moving from niche wellness spaces into mainstream health culture, supporting relaxation, nervous system regulation, mindfulness and emotional balance through vibration, rhythm and tone. The sound healing field includes vibroacoustic therapy, which employs specialized tables and chairs to gently send sound waves through the body. Sound baths are deeply immersive, meditative sessions involving Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, chimes, gongs and tuning forks, as well as sessions with percussive instruments like hand drums, rattles and melodic tongue drums. Other instruments like the didgeridoo and vocal toning—using the human voice—

are also effective for some in turning off the chronic flight-fight-or-freeze stress response. A modality known as binaural beats uses stereo headphones to provide two different sound frequencies, one in each ear. As these two tones are processed by the brain, they align to create a perceived third frequency, which is believed to promote relaxation, focus or sleep. These therapies are practiced either by themselves or alongside complementary wellness modalities such as meditation, breathwork, massage and yoga, helping practitioners quiet mental overstimulation and encourage deeper states of rest and presence. According to a 2025 article from the University of California, Los Angeles, “Research on the benefits of sound therapy is inconclusive, but growing.” There are a number of studies that seek to determine which sound frequencies are most effective, how much sound therapy is needed to gain benefits and which individuals are the best candidates for this treatment.

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

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Because of its positive impact on the central nervous system, sound healing therapy is being used in addiction recovery and post-traumatic stress disorder, reducing relapse triggers and hyperarousal. By boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in response to certain frequencies, participants find it easier to feel, express and release suppressed emotions.

ENERGY AFFECTS ENERGY “Sound therapy is the intentional use of sound, vibration and frequency to support relaxation, self-awareness and the overall well-being of body, mind and soul,” explains sound therapist Anthony Profeta, in Vero Beach, Florida, who offers sound bath sessions to private clients and also serves as part of an integrative medical team at the Cleveland Clinic. “Physicians use sound waves therapeutically in procedures like lithotripsy to break up kidney or gallbladder stones. Many healing traditions believe that a sound bath operates on the same fundamental principle, working with subtler forms of stuck energy held in the meridians, nadis [in traditional Indian medicine] and other energy centers of the body.” Profeta adds that this physical contact with sound stimulates the vagus nerve—the longest nerve in the body and primary regulator of the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows respiration, decreases heart rate and increases heart rate variability, shifting the body out of stress and into genuine relaxation. Guy Yair Beider, a New York City-based sound healing practitioner, educator and founder of Sound Medicine Academy, emphasizes the zero-effort component of the modality. “In a wellness culture that has, ironically, become exhausting in its own right—with protocols, optimization and

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A 2016 observational study in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine reported that singing bowl meditations increased feelings of relaxation and spiritual well-being while significantly reducing stress, depression, anxiety and anger. The researchers also found significant reductions in physical pain and tension among 40- to 50-year-olds.

Educate. Connect. Thrive. self-improvement that starts to feel like another job—sound healing offers something genuinely rare: permission to do nothing and still receive something real.”

TIPS FOR BEGINNING

Make an impact in your community

Based on experience, Profeta underscores, “Too great a variety of instruments can actually reduce the therapeutic effect.” We all experience sound differently, he explains. Some feel deeply relaxed, while others notice physical sensations, vivid imagery, vibrant colors, emotional release or a sense of timelessness. Beider believes that the effects of a sound bath or other types of sound therapy can be profound because they cut through our constant mental chatter. “Many of us are extremely skilled at thinking about our feelings without ever actually feeling them. Because sound healing offers nothing to analyze, that loop gets interrupted and whatever has been held beneath the surface often finds room to move,” he points out, encouraging participants to move slowly after a session, drink water and give themselves a few minutes before re-entering the pace of the day. For those new to sound therapy, Profeta recommends a low commitment, 30- to 60-minute sound bath as an introduction, asserting, “Longer is not necessarily better. After about 45 minutes, especially when participants are lying on a thin yoga mat on a hard floor, restlessness tends to increase and those positive effects begin to reverse. The quality of the sound experience matters more than duration,” he says. “Approach sound with curiosity rather than expectation. Sometimes the deepest benefit arrives very quietly: for a few moments, you become still enough to hear yourself again.” Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic healing and getting back to basics. September 2026

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Calendar of Events

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Cosmic Center Forbidden Knowledge: Awakening to the Truth with Baba Sharone (Repeat) - 7pm. Early Christian texts such as the Gospel of Thomas, Gospel of Mary, and Gospel of Philip, present a version of early Christianity that emphasizes inner knowing (gnosis), direct spiritual experience, and the divine potential within human beings. These early Christian Texts and other writings at the time were declared heretical by the Orthodoxy which started with Constantine and the Council of Nicaea and tremendous effort was made to destroy this forbidden knowledge, but those things hidden will eventually be revealed. Join Baba Sharone as she shares these important revelations especially at this time in our world history. This is a repeated event from May 22nd. It is foundational information for all to know but also serves as a foundation for upcoming Monthly Gnostic Gospel Deep Dive Series with Baba Sharone. $25. For more info. and to register: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/690/1788390000000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg, G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Breaking Free: Why Smart Women Stay in Toxic Relationships - 6:30-8pm. Join multi-certified hypnotherapist and transformational coach Laura K. Ellis, for an insightful workshop exploring the subconscious patterns that keep women stuck in unhealthy relationships. Learn practical tools for healing, empowerment, and lasting change. Women only. $30. Venice East. Space is limited; registration is required: TransitionsLiaisonGlobal.com/healingresources Free Open Mic Night at Flobucha - 7:3010pm. Share live music, storytelling, poetry, comedy, or spoken word at Flobucha’s monthly community open mic. Bring your own instrument or simply enjoy an evening of local talent in a welcoming atmosphere. Complimentary kombucha samples are available throughout the event. Flobucha, 2725 Mall Dr., Gulf Gate, Sarasota, Flobucha.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Heal from Past-Lives That Keep You Stuck – Zoom Only - 12-1pm. Caroline at Natural Women’s Health Institute helps to identify previous lives and contracts that keep us stuck. Resolve the root to liberate yourself now. Free. No ticket required. Zoom Link: Shorturl.at/wQkyZ Private sessions available online at NaturalWomensHealthInstitute. com/energy-work/

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Sarasota/Manatee Edition

ECKANKAR: The Path of Spiritual Freedom invites you to Raise Your Spiritual IQ: Fifteen Minutes to Change Your Life Event - 11am-12pm. Discover HU, ancient mantra and sacred sound. Experience a 15–20-minute HU Chant followed by relaxed, authentic spiritual conversation. Betty J Johnson North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newton Blvd, Sarasota. 941-358-0325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota. Frequency: The Secret of Everything - 123pm. Aquarian Sound Medicine is honored to bring you a special screening of a new film exploring the science of frequency, consciousness, and human potential. Experience our spacial sound environment prior to the film and receive a free recorded sound medicine session. Located at the Gompertz Theatre, 1265 1st St, Sarasota. More info: AquarianSoundMedicine.com/ event-details/frequency-the-secret-ofeverything.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 All are invited to an ECK Light and Sound Service. Raise Your Spiritual IQ! The Connecting Power of Love - 11am12:30pm. Join other like-hearted, everyday people who have discovered keys to having extraordinary experiences with the Divine. Explore your spirituality from a new perspective. Comfort Suites Sarasota-Siesta Key, 5690 Honore Ave, Sarasota, 941-3580325, Meetup.com/EckankarInSarasota Cosmic Center Forbidden Knowledge: A Gnostic Deep Dive Series with Baba Sharone - Part 1 - Who is the Ignorant God and Who Are the Archons? - 4pm. Journey into the teachings of the Gnostic Gospels and ancient hidden writings as we explore in this class the “Ignorant god” also known as the Demiurge and the Archons he created and who secretly rule our world by systems designed to keep us in amnesia, limitation and ignorant to truth to who we truly are. Are the Demiurge and Archons literal spiritual beings, symbolic forces of consciousness, or representations of the systems and beliefs that keep humanity from awakening? Together, we will explore Sophia, Yaldabaoth, the cosmic rulers, and the ancient gnostic understanding of humanity’s divine origin. This multi-part series is a spiritual journey towards Gnosis, the direct knowing of the divine and our part in it. In-person and online. $25. /per class. For more info. and to register: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/691/1789322400000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg. G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Star Harmony Sound Medicine Ceremony: Inhabit - 6pm. There comes a point when understanding is no longer enough. Immerse yourself in sound designed to help what you’ve realized become something you can actually live.

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Inhabit is intentionally composed to invite deep rest, grounding, and the shift from insight into embodied change. Located at the Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA), 225 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota. For more info and to purchase tickets: AquarianSoundMedicine.com/ event-details/inhabit. A Way with Words: A Poetic Venture - 7-8:30pm. Door opens at 6:30pm to first come, first read/sign up. Mark your calendars for the 3rd Wed. of each month. Readings are 5 min per reader. Ony your original works of poetry or prose. No recordings, please. Join us in an accepting ambiance of our wonderous diversity. $5 admission for audience or reader. At Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota. Presented by Rev. Zan Benham, 941-922-7839, Zan@woman-spirit.com.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19 Natural Care for Pelvic Pain Caused by Pudendal Neuralgia - Zoom and InPerson - 12-1pm. Free, no ticket required. Zoom link: Shorturl.at/lWkqN or in-person at Natural Women’s Health Institute, 6981 Curtiss Ave. #5, Sarasota. $200/2- hour new patient Visceral/Vascular Manipulation – signup here: Shorturl.at/THxHK Rev. Richard Schoeller a “Demonstration of Mediumship” - 7-9pm., Sept.19th - 24th. Richard will be offering a “Demonstration of Mediumship” at Sarasota Center of Light. $30. Register online or call 941-953-6620 or pay ATD. Sarasota Center of Light, in the Sanctuary, 852 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Rev. Richard Schoeller at Sarasota Center of Light Sunday Services - Richard Schoeller will be giving an inspirational talk and messages at the Sunday service. Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Shifting Seasons – Summer to Fall - Rest and Guided Meditation Mini-Retreat 2pm. Via Zoom. A 90-minute rest and guided meditation experience as we move from summer toward fall. Create a quiet, distraction-free space and make yourself completely comfortable - on the couch, on the floor, or even in bed. Bring pillows, blankets, an eye covering, or anything that helps your body feel warm and supported. Then simply lie down, close your eyes, and listen. Cameras may remain off, and there is no need to stay awake. Nothing to perform or figure out. Just give yourself some much-needed time to step away from the noise and allow your body and mind to deeply rest and welcome the change of season. Come tired. Come overwhelmed. Come exactly as you are. Just $10. For more info call / text 941-830-3040 - or sign up at ZenfulConversations.com. Silent Meditation for Peace - 10am-3pm. Come breathe, pray, meditate for peace. Join others worldwide participating in Enacting Peace 4 times a year on the


Equinoxes and Solstices. No charge. Drop in anytime. Rising Tide International, 5102 Swift Rd., Sarasota, See EnactingPeace.org.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Reiki III Master Share - 7-8:30pm. 3rd Monday, Reiki III Masters come together to work on one another to expand and enhance their Reiki III Practitioner abilities. If you have a spare massage table, bring it. $5. We gather at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd., Sarasota. For info, Rev. Zan Benham, 941922-7839, or Zan@woman-spirit.com. A Concert For Peace and Humanity 6-8:30pm. Featuring the Kirtonics with Faerie Elaine Silver, Jayebird Martin on Clarinet, Frankie Taylor on bass, Stephen Stardust on Hand Drums, Diana Wyatt, and Phil Leber. $15 to benefit RTI. Info and to pay online: RisingTideInternational.org/ events-page/a-concert-for-peace-andhumanity. Rising Tide International, 5102 Swift Rd., Sarasota.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Fall Equinox, Celebration, Ceremony and Fire Circle - 6-7:30pm. Dress ceremonially in your Fall favorites. Bring folding chairs, drums and rattles. There will be ones to share. Donation for Labyrinth. At the Labyrinth at Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. For info Rev. Zan, Butterfly Deerwoman. 941-922-7839 or Zan@woman-spirit.com. Cosmic Center Fall Equinox 2026 - A Call for Awakening and Peace on Earth - 7pm. An important call to Lightworkers. We understand the special and unique energies that come upon our planetary system every time there is a turn of the Celestial Cross, the Equinoxes and Solstices. There is a reason why people of all cultures have acknowledged and honored the start of a new season that impacts all life on earth. In addition to understanding the specific cycle of the Sun upon the earth and what to do to align with that energy, the Ancient Wisdom also tell us that as divine co-creators, we can harness these energies and apply them to the manifestation of our hearts dreaming. Our collective dream for most humanity is peace on earth. We are at a pivotal time in our continued evolution and the choices and intentions we choose matters in this now moment. For more info.: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/688/1790118000000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg, G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. Rev. Richard Schoeller a “Demonstration of Trance” - 7-9pm. Richard Schoeller will present a “Demonstration of Trance” (Red Light). Seating is limited, $35. Sarasota Center of Light, in the Chapel, at 2701 Browning St., Sarasota. Contact the office at Sarasota Center of Light at 941-953-6620.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Rev.

Richard

Schoeller

Will

Host

a “Development of Mediumship Workshop” - 7-9pm. Richard Schoeller hosts a “Development of Mediumship Workshop”. $30. Held at Sarasota Center of Light, Davis Hall, 2727 Browning St., Sarasota. Contact SarasotaCenterOfLight.com or call 941-953-6620.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Connect with Your Loved Ones Who Have Passed - Zoom Only - 12-1pm. Caroline at Natural Women’s Health Institute acts as a telephone to connect you to your loved people and pets who have died. We will work to heal any unfinished business to help all find peace. Free, no ticket required. Zoom Link: Shorturl.at/ C7pyY. Private sessions available online at NaturalWomensHealthInstitute.com/ energy-work/ Star Harmony Sound Medicine Ceremony: Embody - 6pm. You’ve changed. But are you living like it? Embody is an immersive sound bath to help you move beyond insight into grounded, lived change. Experience emotional settling, grounded clarity, and deeper presence through an original composition under the Aries Full Moon. Kenshō, 4141 S. Tamiami Trl STE. 6, Sarasota. For more info.: AquarianSoundMedicine. com/event-details/embody.

PLAN AHEAD SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 Cosmic Center Group Healing with Anastasia - 4-6pm. Release energetic blocks, emotional healing, intuitive guidance, healing past wounds and trauma. Experience the transformative power of healing in a high-vibrational group setting. Release energetic blocks, restore balance, and receive intuitive guidance through psychic insights and messages from the Akashic Records. Each session is designed to promote clarity, emotional healing, spiritual alignment, and a deeper connection with your soul’s path. In-person. $33. For more information and to register: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/674/1791662400000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg, G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 Goldylocks Productions Sarasota Metaphysical Fair - 10am-5pm. A unique opportunity to meet the Goldylocks Productions’ Show Hosts. The Goldylocks Productions’ show hosts are an elite team of spiritual professionals: Quantum Healing Facilitators, Spiritual Intuitives, Psychic Mediums, Spiritual Authors, Spiritual Counselors, Holistic Health and Wellness Facilitators. Local vendors and food trucks. $5/pp. Southgate Community Center, 3145 Southgate Circle, Sarasota, 860-326-9178, GoldyLocksProductions.com.

Ongoing Events

Sunday Cosmic Center Sunday Sabbath Services - 10:30am. In person and on Zoom. Join our rotation of reverends every Sunday as we connect with our Family of Light. First Sunday - Open Heart Divine Healing Service with Rev. Sharon-Elizabeth (Baba Sharone) and experience sound healing through the rare and unique 4 Quadrant Pythagorean Lambdona Harmonic Keyboard at 528 Hertz. Through the Divine Names of God and conscious intention we create the Sacred Space to connect to the Healing Power of the Divine. Expect Miracles! Second Sunday - A Channeling of Dimensions of Love with Rev. Mery-Lynn Clarke. She will Uplift, Guide, Inspire, Heal and help promote Peace and Harmony in the Heart. Third Sunday - Ecstatic Kabbalah with Rev. Annie Eng anchored in Kabbalah Tree of Life Ceremony and Wisdom. Fourth Sunday – Rev. Robin brings you wisdom teachings from around the world and ages, accompanied with her crystal harp. Fifth Sunday – Gina Lucia - experience the spiritual energy of Divine Protection. This service helps you align with the Higher Wisdom and blessing that is available to all of us. Love Donation. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. Sarasota Center of Light Sunday Morning Celebration Service, In-Person and Zoom - 11am, in person healing at 10:30 in the Sanctuary before service. Join us as we come together as a spiritual family and community, sharing our love and light for ourselves, for each other, and the world. Be a part of sharing the energy and illumination of our hearts and souls together through conversation, music, meditation, a talk and affirmation and messages. Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Cosmic Center the Ringing Cedars Series Monthly Book Club - 12:30-2pm, only 4th Sun. We will be discussing the information contained in a series of books entitled “Anastasia of the Ringing Cedars,” which speaks of knowledge that was preserved over the centuries by Druid priests who live in a Siberian forest. The Book of Kin gives detailed information about the history and wisdom of the “Vedrus” that lived in ancient Eurasia in full awareness of God and in harmony with the entire cosmos. Anastasia teaches that we can communicate and commune with all of nature, remote view, and heal ourselves and others with our heart rays by directing our consciousness. We will be reading the book material as well as practicing the healing and remote viewing techniques. In-person or online. Love offering $10. Zoom Registration Link

September 2026

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Below: us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_eak84vRHQtmH7ZEHIxQO2g Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Monday

Cosmic Center St. Germaine Violet Flame Invocations and Decrees - 12:45-1:45pm, second Sunday of the month only. Come and participate in a powerful and transformative spiritual practice: the St. Germain Violet Flame Invocation and Decrees. It is a sacred opportunity to purify, uplift, and transmute energies within yourself and throughout the Earth. The Violet Flame is a divine spiritual energy associated with the Ascended Master Saint Germain. It is known as the Flame of Transmutation capable of dissolving negativity, releasing karmic burdens, and restoring harmony, balance, and spiritual freedom. Each degree builds upon the last, gently guiding you into greater empowerment and divine alignment. All are welcome. No prior experience is necessary, just an open heart and a willingness to grow. Love donation. Sign up here: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/653/1776012300000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

“Health & Nutrition”- 10-11am. With Fred Harvey, MD of The Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine. Health & nutrition is a live call-in or email Ask the Doc health show from 10-11 on WMNF 88.5FM public radio Tampa. Email questions to DJ@WMNF.org

Cosmic Center Mahatma I & II - The I Am Presence by Brian Grattan - 1-4pm, starting Sept. 20, and every 3rd Sunday of each month. In-person and online. MAHATMA I & II, A journey into higher consciousness. A monthly spiritual study, meditation and exploration with Rev. Annie Eng (Ani RA) and Rev Sharon Elizabeth (Baba). There comes a time on the spiritual path when we begin to sense that there is far more to who we are than the personality we have known ourselves to be. Beyond the personality is the soul, beyond the soul is the Monad (the Divine Presence). Beyond our individual journey lies an extraordinary field of spiritual consciousness connecting humanity with the greater evolutionary purpose of Creation. The teachings of Mahatma I & II invite us to explore these deeper mysteries. All sincere seekers are welcome. No previous knowledge of the books is necessary. $25/per class. More info and to register: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/686/1789923600000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. The OM Shamanic Sound Journey - 3-4pm, 4th Sun. of each month. Performed by Resonance. One-of-a-kind blend of hypnotic induction & immersive amplified musical composition with 4 sound musicians and over 150 sound healing instruments. Always sells out- reserve now. $85. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

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Reiki III Master Share CANCELED until October 2026 - 3rd Mon. Presented by Rev. Zan Benham, 941-922-7839.

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 5:45pm. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/ Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/ Monday Night Meditation - 6pm. All are welcome to come and explore with us a variety of meditation practices as we allow spirit to guide us. Come gather, connect and breath as we open to the possibilities. Arrive early, doors close at 6pm to honor our sacred space. Love donations welcomed. Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 734-464-6828, IamMsKitty.com. Cosmic Center Anchoring Light Transmission Meditation - 6:45pm. With Baba Sharone. A call to all Lightworkers. The Anchoring Light Transmission Channeled Meditation has been a gathering point for Lightworkers and Planetary World Servers to come together and assist in the ascension of our planet and all her life in cooperation with our expanded family of light. As Anchors of Light, we take our important role in the spiritual hierarchy to manifest the divine plan of love, light, peace and oneness to our planet. Participants who serve in anchoring this Celestial Radiant Light Energy from the ascended realms benefit from the wisdom, guidance and grace that flows from it which brings forth healing, peace and accelerated spiritual growth. In person and online. Love offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL. com, Facebook and Instagram.

Tuesday Cosmic Center Light Circuitry Activation Healing with Resident Healer Michael - 3-7pm. Light Circuitry Activation is direct energy transmission accompanied by intuitively guided breathwork mediations. The session produces a relaxing trance state in which the mind softens, the heart opens, and new energy begins to move through latent

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pathways within. Receivers often report renewed energy, physiological balance, clarity of mind, physical rejuvenation of vitality and a new awareness of the energetic power available within. Michael is a certified light channel and PhD chemist with a passion for exploring the human condition, Jungian psychology, soul alchemy, yoga, breathwork, along with sun and moon gazing. For an appointment with Michael, please email him at Mortiz279@gmail. com. $96.00 Cosmic Center Discounted Rate. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. Cosmic Center Lightworker Circle Gathering of Friends - 5-7pm. Come and meet other like-minded people to share, exchange, and converse on various spiritual topics. An eclectic and ever evolving group that embraces the energy of the circle in the present time and what unfolds for both newbies and seasoned participants. Facilitated by Clark Mumaw, this circle of Lightworker Friends will enhance and broaden each participant’s experience in real time. All are welcome. Love offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Wednesday Free Reiki Healing Clinic - 4-6pm. Come visit our new location. Reiki is an ancient healing technique that is thousands of years old. Reiki is the Chi or life force energy that runs through each of us and is directed and transferred during a Reiki session. Free session every Wednesday. Angel Ministries, 1890 Tamiami Trail S., Venice, 941-492-4995, AngelMinistriesFl.org. Wednesday Wisdom Share - 6pm. A gathering of “Light-minded Souls” is a sacred circle that meets to honor and support each other weekly. We are all awakening and expanding in new ways. Whether you are just becoming aware or have been on your path. We offer a safe and supportive space to share. Bring your stories and experiences and questions or just listen as others share theirs. Arrive early, doors close at 6pm to honor our sacred space. Love donations welcomed. Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 734-464-6828, IamMsKitty.com. Cosmic Center Mediumship for BeginnersMeeting your Guides and Teachers with Rev. Mary-Linn Clarke - 6:30-8:30pm., starting Sept. 23, meets every Wednesday, (6-week class). Rev Mary Linn Clarke is offering an introductory class for Mediumship. Learn how to properly connect with your Spiritual Guides and teachers and know who your


individual Guides are and the role they play in your life. This will create a solid foundation for part 2 of the six-week class that will build on this foundation. This is a certified course, and each class builds on the other. $150/six-week class. For more info., and to register: Tockify.com/sharon.elizabeth. james/detail/687/1790202600000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. Cosmic Center Special Spirit Messages and Channeling - 7-8:30pm, third Wed. of each month. This service is channeled through Reverend Nancy Lee and for all who attend can receive messages from loved ones, guides, masters and teachers in spirit. Also, at the last part of the service Rev. Nancy Lee will channel Divine Wisdom, guidance, and teachings from the Divine Nine Counsel, which are part of her spirit team working with her and through her. Come and enjoy this beautiful service to uplift and inspire you. Love donation $20. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL. com, Facebook and Instagram. The Om Shoppe Singing Bowl Sound Baths - 7-8pm, 2nd Wed. of each month. Discover the power of sound to help you access inner peace, stillness, and deep relaxation. An acoustic crystalline experience of transcendence while relaxing in anti-gravity lounge chairs with professionally trained sound therapists and musicians. Always sells out- reserve now. $45. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com. Weekly Study Group Reading: “An Outline of Occult Science” by Rudolf Steiner - 7pm. If you long for a serious study of spiritual science and the spiritual world then you are most welcome to come and at least, experience if this is right for you. Beginners and adepts most welcome. Free of charge. SE Sarasota at my home. To know more please text Cherylyn at 941-960-3041.

Thursday Walk-in Reiki Energy Healer Nancy Lord - Reiki Energy Healer and Animal Reiki is now at Spirit Speakers on a walk-in basis on Thursdays or call 734-464-6828 for appointments for other times. Reiki is a Japanese healing practice that focuses on channeling gentle, universal life force energy to support re-laxation and balance. People use Reiki to reduce stress, pain relief, calm the mind, and support emotional or spiritual well-being. A practitioner lightly places their hands near the body to encourage natural energetic flow. It’s not a medical treatment, but many find it a soothing complement to

other healing practices. Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, IamMsKitty.com, 734-464-6828. Free Kombucha Tasting at Flobucha - 4-6pm. Curious about kombucha? Sample more than 14 handcrafted Flobucha flavors, including seasonal specialties, during this weekly tasting event. Learn what makes Flobucha uniquely sugar-free while discovering beeresque and winesque flavor profiles that offer a social drinking experience without the alcohol. Whether you’re new to kombucha or a longtime fan, it’s the perfect opportunity to find your favorite flavor. Flobucha, 2725 Mall Dr., Gulf Gate, Sarasota, 941-248-2133, Flobucha.com. Reiki Share at Sarasota Center of Light - 5:30-7:30, starting Jan. 29 and every last Thurs. of the month. Love offering. Sarasota Center of Light Learning Center, 2770 Browning St. Sarasota, 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. “Balance & Mobility Class” - 6:30-7:30, starting Aug. 20. With Stephanie Haggan at Sarasota Center of Light. Improve your balance, flexibility and strength for everyday life. This gentle, low-impact class is designed for adults of all fitness levels and led by a certified personal trainer. Open to the public, $10/ATD. Sarasota Center of Light, Flexer Healing Chapel, 2729 Browning St., Sarasota. For information visit website Sarasota Center of Light.com. Cosmic Center Chanting The 72 Names of God with Baba Sharone - 7pm, every 2nd Thurs. of the month. A powerful spiritual tool to assist in the healing of ourselves, communities and the world. To help create the Golden age of Peace on Earth. For those who are dedicated to their Path of Light. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Friday Cosmic Center Transformational Healing with Anastasia - starting Sept. 4, and every Friday thereafter. If you’ve been carrying emotional pain, unresolved trauma, repeating the same patterns, feeling disconnected from yourself, or sensing that something is holding you back, this session is an invitation to return to your true self. Drawing on her natural intuitive gifts and more than 15 years of experience, Anastasia gently guides you in uncovering and healing the root causes of emotional, mental, physical, and energetic imbalances. Every session is uniquely tailored to your needs, blending hypnotherapy, subconscious mind reprogramming, energy healing, somatic trauma release, intuitive guidance, psychic and aura reading, past life regression, and

Services HOUSECLEANING. Enjoy your free time and let us do what we do best: Housecleaning to your healthy satisfaction. Call Paula for a free estimate 941-320-4052. MASSAGE THERAPY. Swedish, Neuromuscular, Reiki, Thai. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays. Discount packages available. Tina Miccio, LMT, NMT, License #: MA49526, 941-777-2374. spirit messages to support profound, lasting transformation. One hour Discount rate/$175. For more information: Tockify.com/sharon. elizabeth.james/detail/684/1788494400000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Saturday Psychic Saturday - 11:30am-1:30pm, 1st Sat only. In Davis Hall of Sarasota Center of Light. There is a 15-minute reading for $20 and in Flexer Healing Chapel there is healing with a $5 love donation. All are welcome! Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com. Cosmic Center Remembering Your Innate Gifts and Purpose - 6pm, starting Sept. 5 and monthly thereafter. With Anastasia Spencer. This ongoing monthly workshop is designed to help you awaken, strengthen, and confidently develop your intuitive and psychic abilities in a grounded, highvibrational space. All experience levels are welcome. For each class, participants will receive personalized guidance as Anastasia intuitively reads your energy field to identify your natural gifts and provide practical tools to help you develop and trust your unique abilities. Each class builds on the previous workshop as well as being independent experience for each class. You can participate in any class. You will also receive a spirit message or brief intuitive reading to help you recognize what may be blocking you from fully accessing your highest potential and soul gifts. $75/per class. For more information and to register: To ck i f y.co m /s h a ro n .e l i z a b e t h . j a m e s / detail/673/1788634800000. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL. com, Facebook and Instagram.

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Chiropractors Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR Board Certified Acupuncture Physician The Integrated Path, P.A. 2801 Fruitville Rd.Suite 135, Sarasota 941-924-8833 • IntegratedPath.com

The Integrated Path to Health and Wellness for the whole family utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine,Acupuncture, Energetic Medicine, Bloodwork Analysis,Clinical Nutrition Assessments and ZYTO Elite to restore balance. Over 30 years of clinical experience!

DR DEBORAH SCANDIN AP RRT Acupuncture Physician Respiratory Therapist Located at Dr. Luo’s Oriental Medicine 3292 Fruitville Rd., STE 104, Sarasota 941-955-8882 DrLuoAcupuncture.com

Dr Scandin has over 25 years combined experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Respiratory Therapy and Neuromuscular Massage. She treats : flu & colds, sore throat, asthma, headaches, sinusitis, sport injuries, trauma and total wellness .

SARASOTA CENTER FOR ACUPUNCTURE AND NUTRITION Dr. Christina Captain, DAOM Nationally Board Certified Dipl.Ac Complimentary Meet & Greet The Medical Complex 2650 Bahia Vista Street, Suite 101, Sarasota, 941-951-1119 • ScanSRQ.com

Sarasota Center For Acupuncture and Nutrition is an integrated wellness practice addressing all health issues.We will find the key to unlock your highest level of health and wellness. Complimentary meet & greet.

Acupuncture Facelift FACES BY DR ANNA

Anna L. Baker, D.O.M. Nationally Board Certified Acupuncture Physician 941-924-2723 • FacesByDrAnna.com

GENTLEBAY SARASOTA CHIROPRACTIC

Residual Strain Therapy Eric Winder DC 7246 South Beneva Road, Sarasota 941-957-8390 • Eric.Winder.dc@gmail.com

Professional care with a personal focus. Feel better through proper alignment, and get back to work and play! See our website for more information.

Colon/Ozone Therapy COLON THERAPY CLINC OZONE THERAPY

Alain and Marsha Menard Xavier Menard 442 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey (South Sarasota) 941-922-7744 - Colon 941-321-3061 - Ozone ColonTherapyClinic.com OzoneSRQ.com Licensed 52 Years. Gentle Technique, Open and Closed Systems, Ozone Therapy, Cleansing for Digestive Disorders and Double Foot Bath..

Feldenkrais Method® THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD® Lessons for Children (ABM), Adults, Classes, Prof Seminars Bonnie Kissam, M.A., Feldenkrais® Practitioner, LMT, CE Provider 941-360-2248 Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

The Feldenkrais® Approach , ‘Movement with Attention’, helps one ‘sense easier, improved posture and ways of moving. Clients optimize their musical, athletic or everyday activities through heightened ‘awareness’. They find unique ways to recover from injury, surgeries or illness. Call for appointments, classes or for weekend TOUCH TO INFORM seminars 941360-2248, Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

Unique muscle-tightening acupuncture facelift and necklift done with 12 hair-thin needles, none of which are on the face. Results documented photographically. Only one maintenance treatment needed every 18 months. Free consultation includes facial analysis. Monthly seminars, call for schedule.

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Functional & Lifestyle Wellness KORMAN RELIEF & WELLNESS CENTER

Laura Korman, DC, DACBN Chiropractor, Diplomate in Nutrition 16954 Toledo Blade Blvd, Port Charlotte 941-629-6700 • DrLauraKorman.com

Dr. Korman specializes in helping peri-menopausal women eliminate pain, fatigue and unwanted belly fat through functional medicine, lifestyle strategies and regenerative therapies so they can reclaim their vitality and stay engaged in the life they love. We offer PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy), Class IV Deep Tissue Laser, Near & Far Infrared Sauna, Decompression Therapies, Whole Body Vibration and carry a professional line of supplementation.

Natural Food CAFE EVERGREEN

801 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 941-412-4334 • CafeEvergreen.net

Cafe Evergreen is a natural, organic restaurant. Our menu consists of many organic recipes designed to not only taste delicious, but also enhance your health. Open Monday-Saturday, closed on Sundays.

Organic Salon HAIR & EARTH ORGANIC SALON 200 Central Ave, Suite 18, Sarasota

941-284-9563 • HairandEarth.GlossGenius.com Erinn offers Sarasota excellence in conscious haircare. Cuts, color, highlights, smoothing treatments and more. Metaphysical gifts too! Kevin Murphy color line as well as retail products available. Comfortable, private space for calm, creative collaboration. Call or text Erinn Earth for an appointment or consultation. Or schedule online at: HairandEarth.GlossGenius.com.


Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide VISIT NASRQ.COM/BUSINESSES.

Pain Management Neck and Back Pain DISC CENTERS OF AMERICA/SARASOTA Dr. David Cifra, DC

Non-Surgical Spinal • Decompression Specialist

Office: 941-358-2224 • Cell: 315-345-7390 DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Medical Breakthrough Technology! Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Specialist, Dr.David Cifra,DC. Advanced procedure for patients who have back and neck pain and want to avoid narcotics, epidural injections, and unnecessary surgeries. Over 90% effective. No pain, No drugs, No surgery, NO Injections. Call today 941-3582224. FREE CONSULTATION.

technologies and trusted brands, we create customized wellness plans that enhance both appearance and overall whole-body health.

Shamanic Practices SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES

Rev. Zan Benham, BSL, BD, CHT 941-922-7839 Spiritual counselor, shamanic practitioner, Reiki healing, breath, and energy work, hypnosis, soul retrieval, past life regression all to empower and help you move into the Divine flow of the joy and power within you.

Weddings DIVINE CHAPEL OF LOVE

In the Picturesque Natural Beauty of The Meadows

5041 Ringwood Meadow, Sarasota DivineChapelofLove.com • 941-295-9333 The Divine Chapel of Love offers a place for weddings, renewal of vows and ceremonies for couples who wish to commemorate their special occasion in a beautiful surrounding to form lasting memories where Love is All That Matters.

Spiritual Centers COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awak-ening Consciousness

5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2 • Sarasota

CCOSL.com • Facebook/Instgram/Twitter

A place of Light and Uncondition-al Love bringing together awak-ened and awakening minds and hearts for healing, enlightenment, support and joy!

Pet Supplies PET SUPPLY CENTER

Natural & Holistic Premium Pet Foods 3558 Webber Street, Sarasota

941-925-4376 • PetSupplyCenter@gmail.com

PetSupplyCenterSarasota.com

Offering full lines of veterinary diets, raw and frozen diets, dog, cat and bird supplies. Huge selection of toys, treats, flea and tick products, collars and more. Certified veterinary nutritional consultant on staff. We ship and pets always welcom

Regenerative Medicine CENTER FOR REGENERATIVE & AESTHETIC WELLNESS Bonnie Wang, MD, MHA Board Certified Internal Medicine 3530 Fruitville Road, Sarasota 941-893-4688 Re3Healing.com

We combine advanced regenerative medicine with personalized aesthetic care to deliver lasting results. Services include body sculpting, pelvic floor strengthening, TMS therapy, skin rejuvenation, injectables, hormone optimization, BHRT, and weight management. Using leading

SARASOTA CENTER OF LIGHT

852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota 941-953-6620 • SarasotaCenterOfLight.com

Experience the peaceful energy, love and light of our metaphysical spiritual community. Join us for the inspiration, healing and connection to Spirit in our services, classes and social gatherings.

Thermography FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY

June Drennon, CCT 2008

JuneDrennon@TampaBayThermography.com

727-729-2711 FloridaMedicalThermography.com

JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com

Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Prevention is better than early detection. Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.

September 2026

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