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Publisher’s Letter
With Mother’s Day approaching, it is a meaningful time to recognize and honor the compassion, dedication, and influence of mothers and maternal figures. Celebrated on the second Sunday of May, the holiday traces back to the early 20th century, when Anna Jarvis advocated for a day devoted to appreciating mothers and their sacrifices. Over time, it has become a widely embraced occasion centered on gratitude, love, and connection.
This May edition brings together a diverse range of topics designed to inform, motivate, and empower. Strong, Centered and Whole: Women That Inspire Us To Thrive celebrates resilience and the strength of women, while Ten Minutes to Better Hips: Developing a Daily Routine offers practical guidance for improving everyday wellness.
Holistic Weight Management for Cats: Dietary and Activity Tips That Work provides thoughtful, comprehensive advice on pet health, emphasizing balanced nutrition and consistent activity. Meanwhile, Stop Trying and Start Doing: A Conversation With Carla Ondrasik delivers inspiration through honest reflection and actionable mindset shifts.
Warm wishes are extended to all for a happy Mother’s Day, along with appreciation for the care and strength that mothers bring into the world.
As always, open your mind and read on.
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those seeking peace, clarity, and a renewed sense of direction, Pamela Elkington of Angelic Outcomes offers a compassionate and insightful path forward.
At times, life calls for a pause—a moment to listen more deeply and reconnect with inner wisdom. As a gifted channeler, Certified Life Coach and Reiki Master, Elkington provides an integrative approach to healing and guidance.
Through Angel Readings, Mediumship and Akashic Record Readings, she bridges the spiritual and practical, helping clients release what no longer serves them and move forward with greater purpose and clarity.
Known as “The Angel Girl,” Elkington meets clients where they are, creating a supportive and welcoming space. Many leave sessions feeling calm, hopefu, and more confident about their path ahead.
Whether navigating life transitions, seeking connection with a loved one, or searching for deeper meaning, she offers guidance with compassion and care.
For those ready for meaningful transformation, Pamela Elkington is honored to support each client’s journey and help them connect with their angels.
For more information call/text: 813-215-7194. Email: AngelicOutcomes@gmail.com and visit AngelicOutcomes.com. See ad, page 31.
A Cleaner Path to Whiter Teeth
RiseWell
combines hydroxyapatite (HA) with natural ingredients to support a healthier oral care routine. Xylitol, a plantderived sweetener, helps prevent cavities by limiting harmful bacteria and reducing enamel-damaging acids. Botanical extracts like peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon, and echinacea help reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and freshen breath without synthetic additives.
The brand emphasizes transparency by replacing questionable chemicals with clean alternatives. Its formulas avoid SLS, propylene glycol, artificial flavors, and titanium dioxide—ingredients commonly found in many traditional and “natural” toothpastes. Each ingredient is clearly listed, reflecting a commitment to health and simplicity. Dental professionals, including co-founder Dr. Derek Gatta, highlight hydroxyapatite’s ability to bond with enamel safely and effectively. Unlike traditional whitening products that rely on bleaching agents and may cause sensitivity, hydroxyapatite fills microscopic cracks, smooths the tooth surface, and supports natural remineralization, enhancing brightness by strengthening enamel rather than bleaching it. Overall, RiseWell offers a balanced approach to oral care, promoting whiter teeth while supporting long-term enamel health and everyday comfort.
Location: Tampa Bay Dental Implants and Periodontics, 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Petersburg. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 727-384-9122 or visit tbPerio.com. See ad, page 9.
Tobacco Free Florida's Group Quit Sessions (in-person or virtual) now offer participants $25 - $125 in gift cards for their attendance.*
Group Quit offers free, expert-led in-person or virtual sessions for all Florida residents regardless of insurance status. Upon class completion, participants are eligible for nicotine replacement therapy such as patches, gum, or lozenges.** *while supplies last **if medically appropriate for those 18 years of age or older Pre-registration required Call USF AHEC Program today at: 813-974-7889
Wellness Discovery Day
Professional Lymphatic Therapy & Colonics invites the community to its very first Wellness Discovery Day—an immersive, community-centered experience thoughtfully designed to educate, connect, and inspire.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore engaging live demonstrations, including soothing sound bowl therapy, gain valuable insights from a licensed esthetician on organic health-conscious skincare and participate in meaningful conversations focused on navigating complex health challenges in today’s world.
Whether attending out of curiosity, seeking support, or simply looking to connect with like-minded individuals, this welcoming space brings together the elements of healing, learning, and discovery in a supportive environment.
This event is FREE to attend. Light snacks and beverages will be provided, along with exciting opportunities to win raffle prizes throughout the day.
Guests are welcome to stop by for a brief visit or stay longer to participate in scheduled discussions and demonstrations. For the latest updates to the event agenda, please visit: ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com/events.
Location: Professional Lymphatic Therapy & Colonics, 9371-B US Hwy 19 N., Pinellas Park, FL 33782. For more information call 727-492-0060. See ad, page 31.
Nature-based Health and Nutrition with Collin Gow, C.N.C. Collin
Gow, C.N.C., offers a wide range of holistic health services, including nutritional, herbal, and fitness consultations available both in person and by phone. His programs include food, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations, as well as wild, edible, and medicinal plant and mushroom identification walks. He also provides personalized meal plans, facial blood flow scans, and lab test orders and analysis, all without the need for a doctor. In addition, Collin offers books, gemstone necklaces and bracelets, nature and nutrition-inspired clothing, a supplement store, astro-numerology charts, and wellness events designed to educate and inspire.
An accomplished author of six books, Collin holds certifications in nutrition, herbalism, natural products, botany, wilderness first aid, epinephrine auto-injector use, and relationship science. With nearly twenty years of experience and more than 50,000 nutritional consultations, he combines scientific knowledge with a holistic, personalized, nature-based approach to health and healing. His expertise is well regarded throughout the Tampa Bay area, where he helps clients overcome challenges and achieve lasting health. He also leads fun, educational foraging classes, appears on radio and television, and contributes to local natural health magazines.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit collingowcnc.wixsite.com/collingowcnc, email collingowcnc@gmail. com, or call 813-377-7705. See ad, page 45.
Antioxidant May Protect Heart During Chemotherapy
Cancer patients treated with doxorubicin, a common chemotherapy drug, may suffer heart damage, including reduced heart function, irregular heart rhythms and heart failure. A 2025 study published in Nature investigated whether astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant found in certain seafood and algae, could help reduce the damage.
The researchers divided study rats into a group that received only doxorubicin, two groups that received doxorubicin along with different doses of astaxanthin, and a control group. They used ultrasound scans to check blood markers for heart injury, examined heart tissue, measured cellular energy levels and analyzed proteins related to mitochondrial health.
Rats given doxorubicin alone experienced heart damage, mitochondrial disruptions and lower energy levels in the heart. By contrast, rats treated with astaxanthin showed improved heart function compared to the doxorubicin group, fewer signs of injury, healthier heart tissue and higher cellular energy levels. Astaxanthin also protected the structure and function of mitochondria.
Further research in humans is needed to confirm whether astaxanthin could safely and effectively be used alongside chemotherapy.
You
—Coco Chanel
Promise and Pitfalls of Biological-Age Tests
A December 2025 study in eBioMedicine reports that better cardiovascular health—characterized by a low body mass index, no smoking and healthy blood pressure—slows biological aging in mid-to-late life. This suggests that biological aging is not solely determined by genetics and can be altered by addressing cardiovascular risk factors like smoking, diet, exercise and blood pressure in middle-aged and older adults.
Although promising, this research has been met with caution due to disagreement about the reliability and usefulness of commercial biological-age tests. These tests analyze patterns of DNA methylation, a natural process that regulates gene activity. Scientists use algorithms to compare a person’s methylation profile with large datasets, estimating if their body appears biologically older or younger than expected.
A February 2026 editorial in eBioMedicine (“Epigenetic clocks: advancing biological age measures towards meaningful clinical use”) highlights the limitations of biological-age testing. Most tests use blood or saliva samples, which may not accurately reflect aging in other organs and tissues. Different tests often produce varying results because they use different populations and algorithms. Biological-aging patterns can also differ by sex, lifestyle, environment and disease stage. The eBioMedicine editorial emphasizes that despite their potential to improve disease prevention and deepen our understanding of aging, biological-age tests need further development to address scientific and methodological gaps.
Deeper Awareness Through Dance
5Rhythms is a movement meditation practice developed by Gabrielle Roth in the late 1970s. It combines elements of shamanic, ecstatic, mystical and Eastern philosophy, along with influences from Gestalt therapy, a humanistic form of psychotherapy. The practice is founded on the belief that everything is energy, moving in waves, patterns and rhythms. Roth described 5Rhythms as the connection of body, heart, mind and spirit. By moving the body, practitioners aim to quiet the mind and access deeper states of awareness and creativity.
The five rhythms of the practice correspond to different movements and emotional states, danced in a specific sequence: flowing represents grounding and being; staccato signifies clarity and direction; chaos encourages release and transformation; lyrical conveys lightness and joy; stillness brings integration and peace.
5Rhythms participants move through the five rhythms in 60 or 90 minutes. There is no set choreography; individuals are encouraged to move intuitively while barefoot in response to music that reflects the energy of each rhythm.
Dark Chocolate Linked to Slower Aging
Research conducted in 2025 by King’s College London and published in Aging reveals a connection between dark chocolate and slower aging. Theobromine, a natural cocoa compound and alkaloid, regulates gene activity and was found in higher levels in the blood of individuals that appeared biologically younger than their chronological age.
Analyzing data from more than 1,600 European adults, researchers estimated the participants’ biological age using two methods: assessing DNA changes that indicate the pace of aging; and measuring telomeres, the protective structures at the end of chromosomes that shorten as we age. The researchers caution that increased consumption of dark chocolate is not a shortcut to a longer life. Further research is needed to understand theobromine’s interaction with the body and its impact on aging.
Handy Heart-Risk Calculator
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and nearly everyone that experiences a heart attack, stroke or heart failure has at least one risk factor. The American Heart Association offers a free tool called PREVENT to estimate 10-year and 30-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk for people aged 30 to 79 without known CVD. Validated in a 2025 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the tool’s algorithms are based on 10 years of data from more than 6.5 million Americans without known CVD. It is the first tool to combine cardiovascular, kidney and metabolic health measures. To access the calculator, visit professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements/ prevent-calculator.
The calculator aims to promote earlier consultation between doctors and patients when higher risk is detected. These conversations can lead to lifestyle changes in diet, sleep quality and stress, alongside treatment, to reduce CVD risk.
StockFamily/shutterstock
Laluka/shutterstock
Cognitive Benefits of Caffeine
A study published in JAMA reports that caffeine protects against dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. The research followed nearly 132,000 American adults for up to 43 years, analyzing the effect of coffee and tea consumption on dementia risk and cognitive performance. Participants were free of cancer, Parkinson’s disease and dementia at the start of the study. After adjusting for demographic, lifestyle and health-related factors, a higher intake of caffeinated coffee significantly reduced dementia risk.
Those consuming the most caffeinated coffee had an 18 percent lower dementia risk than those consuming the least. Higher caffeinated coffee intake also correlated with a lower likelihood of selfreported cognitive decline and modestly better performance on objective cognitive tests. Tea consumption showed similar patterns, while decaffeinated coffee did not reduce dementia risk or improve cognitive outcomes. The strongest effects were seen with moderate intake, about two to three cups of caffeinated coffee or one to two cups of tea daily.
Participants were drawn from the Nurses’ Health Study (started in 1976) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (started in 1986), two of the largest, longrunning U.S. studies investigating risk factors for chronic disease.
Kamonwan_Wankaew/shutterstock
Race to Save the Northern White Rhino
The northern white rhino faces imminent extinction due to poaching, with only two females remaining—a mother and daughter, living under tight security at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a wildlife sanctuary in Kenya.
To save the species, German scientists are conducting rhino in vitro fertilization (IVF). The scientists successfully transferred a lab-produced southern white rhino embryo to a surrogate mother after years of developing techniques to collect eggs and implant embryos more than six feet inside the two-ton animal. Achieving the first viable pregnancy required 13 attempts.
The next step is to repeat the IVF process in a northern white rhino, a close relative to the southern counterpart. Scientists will use sperm cells collected from the last male northern white rhino before his death.
Organic Sales on the Rise
The Organic Trade Association reported that U.S. sales of certified organic products rose by 6.8 percent in 2025, reaching $76.6 billion. By contrast, non-organic sales increased by only 3.4 percent. This growth of organic sales indicates that consumers are increasingly prioritizing their health and the environment, often paying premium prices for organic products.
In 2025, organic food sales totaled $70.1 billion, accounting for 6.1 percent of the total food market. Large increases were observed in organic produce, grocery items, beverages, dairy and eggs, with organic beef experiencing the largest growth, at 44.3 percent. Organic textiles, dietary supplements, personal-care products and pet foods reached $6.5 billion in 2025, making up about 1 percent of the sales in these categories. Concern about pesticides and toxins drove the rise in these sectors.
Fossil May Be Extinct Life Form
Before trees existed 360 to 430 million years ago, 26-foot-tall, tower-like organisms called prototaxites dominated Earth’s landscape. Canadian geologist William Edmond Logan first discovered these log-like tower fossils in Quebec, Canada, in 1843. Initially thought to be a complex fungus, scientists struggled to classify them within the existing framework of life on Earth.
New research in Science Advances asserts that prototaxites are a previously undiscovered branch of life that is now extinct. The study of a well-preserved tower fossil found in Scotland revealed an unusual physical structure and a distinct chemical fingerprint, ruling out it being a fungus and excluding it from other known genera. Further analysis is needed to conclusively determine that prototaxites are a unique life form.
Agami_Photo_Agency/shutterstock
Schunnemunk tree (Prototaxites loganii)
Night-Vision Contact Lenses
Humans have poor vision in the dark because we lack the reflective, mirror-like layer behind the retina that enhances low-light vision in animals like cats, dogs and owls. To address this, nightvision goggles were invented. A new study in the journal Cell reports that Chinese scientists have developed contact lenses that enable people to see beyond the visible light range and perceive near-infrared light even in the dark.
The lenses were tested on mice and humans. Human participants were able to distinguish spatial details (shapes/locations), temporal information (flickering/movement) and multiple near-infrared colors (red, blue, green) simultaneously without the need for bulky powered equipment. This technology could be used in rescue missions, medical procedures, law enforcement and military operations.
Solar-Powered Hydrogen Reactor
Hydrogen fuel production usually requires large amounts of energy, making it cost-prohibitive. A paper published in Frontiers in Science outlines key discoveries in photosynthesis and photocatalyst sheets for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using solar power. It reports nearperfect conversion of photocatalytic water splitting using ultraviolet light and the potential for scaling to a large outdoor prototype panel reactor system.
The processes remain experimental and will need further research and development to become practical, efficient and scalable, and to ensure safe recovery of the oxyhydrogen gas. If successful, this technology could produce a sustainable, low-cost green fuel to replace fossil fuels for energy.
Men Built to Thrive
Strong, Centered and Whole
Women That Inspire Us To Thrive
by Marlaina Donato
Something in the air seems to change when a woman with strong vitality enters a room. Her undefinable life force draws us in, whether it is evident in her step or her smile. Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, poet Maya Angelou and anthropologist Jane Goodall are all iconic examples, but the capacity to thrive
is inherent in each of us through small, consistent investments.
Globally, women are leading the way in consumer choices, eco-forward initiatives and sociopolitical awareness for a more sustainable and compassionate world. Whether on the frontlines fighting for worthy
Courtesy Behati Hart
causes, supporting local farmers markets or putting healthy meals on the table, prioritizing self-care and learning from each other is vital. Here, four inspiring women from different walks of life divulge how they thrive in chaotic times.
Finding Her Authentic Self
Behati Hart served her country for a decade, switching between logistics, computer analysis and paralegal positions in the United States Air Force. As a woman of color in a male-dominated environment, she says she survived by crafting a persona to hide her then-undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and anxiety.
Today, Hart embodies what feels like a more authentic role as a multidisciplinary creator and coach. The author of Just BE: A Memoir About Unmasking and Becoming Human Again designed The BETi Method (Becoming Empowered Through Intelligence) to guide people out of trauma and identity-focused ways of living that compromise the soul’s true calling.
“We allow the world to judge us, accept those judgments as fact and begin wearing masks, titles and labels that reflect others’ expectations of how they want to experience us,” she explains. “We become afraid to experience ourselves—the good, the bad and the ugly. Unmasking is embodying ourselves so that we feel safe with who we really are.”
Noting that trauma and passion are the same energy moving in opposite directions, she says, “Trauma turns fierce aliveness inward into hypervigilance, protection or freeze responses. Passion turns that same energy outward into creation, connection and joy.”
Numerous activities feed Hart’s soul. “My forever medicines—laughter and dancing—require no prescription and provide cathartic emotional release through physical expression,” she points out. “As an earth-oriented person, being outdoors nourishes my spirit the most. My sacred garden and porch are my grounding spaces where I practice earthing—direct skin contact with the Earth’s surface—because I believe that electrons from the earth may help reduce inflammation.”
Hart believes that we can learn from each other by sharing our experiences. “We don’t always celebrate our stories, especially the stories of other women—ancient and contemporary—who survived and taught us how to become who we are,” she says. “We need survivor stories, revolutionary stories and creator stories. To thrive, we must center the well-being of women and children, while embracing heart-led living—not feminine or masculine, but feminine and masculine, in sacred balance. That’s the future I work toward.”
Enjoying a Wild and Interesting Life
Maria Rodale seamlessly moves from the boardroom to the garden and from science
to spirituality, carving out a distinctly unique life while preserving an impactful family legacy. She served as chief executive officer of Rodale, Inc., the publishing company behind Prevention magazine and bestselling book titles, including An Inconvenient Truth, by Al Gore. As a passionate, third-generation advocate for health and Earth literacy, she has penned several books of her own, including Organic Manifesto: How Organic Food Can Heal Our Planet, Feed the World, and Keep Us Safe and Love, Nature, Magic: Shamanic Journeys into the Heart of My Garden.
“I have met enough rich and famous people to know that financial success or fame is no guarantee of happiness or thriving,” she says. “I define success as a safe and warm home, a comfortable bed, good homemade food, happy and healthy kids, family and friends who love me, loving myself, the freedom to create and, of course, good health.”
Rodale prioritizes eating in-season, organic, local food, in moderation. “I also think we create the future by what we ingest—culturally and physically. Just like I avoid fast food and highly processed foods, I avoid horror movies and true crime stories,” she explains.
Her self-care habits include saying a prayer and 30 minutes of meditation in the morning, before doing anything else, lifting weights twice a week, going for walks and adding to her gratitude list before bed. “The direct relationship we each have with our true, ‘higher’ selves and with God is unique for every person and part of our life journey to figure it out,” she says. “I listen to my own inner voice, trust my gut, not getting distracted by rage bait, not dwelling too much on the horrors that I can’t fix or control, and focusing on the things I can do.”
These are mantras she lives by and offers to others: “Stop worrying about what other people think. Treasure your weirdness. Get over your fears and get out there. Do what you, and only you, were born to do.”
Courtesy Maria Rodale
Modeling a Wholesome Lifestyle
Dr. Rebecca Hunton has always wanted to make a difference, and after dedicating two decades to functional medicine, her tireless efforts shine at Radiantly Healthy, her direct-care practice in central Florida, where patients benefit from unhurried appointments, advanced diagnostics and a collaborative partnership with their healthcare team. By listening closely to her patients—mostly women—she has been able to create a responsive, personalized standard of care that conventional institutions are slow to follow.
“Our culture—especially our workplace culture—is not designed for health or wholeness,” she remarks. “We’re beating ourselves up for failing to achieve something that’s genuinely impossible. Many of my female patients are burned out and demoralized—not because they’re failing, but because the target was never reachable. Step one is that awareness. Step two is adding one small, achievable action, and then another. That’s where momentum starts.”
In her integrative practice, one concept emerges with great regularity: there is no health without good mental health. “You can't separate emotional health from physical vitality. I make it a non-negotiable priority, which is part of my ‘just-10-minutes’
philosophy. When time is tight, I commit to planking, the indoor bike or functional fitness, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. I maintain an affirmation and gratitude practice, and get outside on most days for some form of physical activity, often cycling.”
Because she believes that food is medicine, and one of the chief contributors to well-being, Hunton practices what she preaches to her patients. “I love to cook,” she explains. “I’m plant-forward, but not vegetarian, and legumes and beans find their way into nearly every dish I make.”
The healing power of community is also top of mind. “I’m thriving when I’m living in close alignment with the personal vision for my life, and that includes physical activity with friends, playing duplicate bridge to keep my mind sharp, as well as teaching and leading others for growth and fulfillment,” she says. “I try to be that person now for the younger women in my life—reaching back rather than just reaching forward.”
Teaching and Learning
Sarita-Linda Rocco’s journey into wholeness was forged from a crucible of deep grief, motherhood and a life-altering neardeath experience during her mid-20s. These rollercoaster life events left her with debilitating panic attacks, and her search for stability led her to Ayurveda and yoga. Today,
Rocco is a renowned teacher and founder of The Nest Collaborative, a holistic haven in West Reading, Pennsylvania.
She is also an innovator and entrepreneur, continually searching for ways to help her students thrive in their body-mind fitness journey. One invention, The Original Superblock, is a specialized prop used to support students during yoga practice.
Rocco’s way of life is straightforward but powerful. She prioritizes foods that keep her blood sugar balanced, minimizing simple carbohydrates and focusing on clean proteins, healthy fats and seasonal vegetables. “I love cooking and find great joy in building meals around our weekly CSA [community supported agriculture] from a local organic farm,” she says. “Ayurveda spices and herbs are central in my kitchen, and hydration is foundational.”
According to Rocco, “Self-healing begins with setting boundaries with people and situations that deplete energy. I hope women remember their divine feminine power, shakti, from which their creative intelligence and life-generating energy flows. It does not compete. It creates. When women fragment that power through comparison and social pressure, something sacred is lost.”
Even now, hers is a journey of self-discovery and transformation. “Thriving is not perfection. It is honoring my energy moment to moment, knowing when to work with strength and when to rest without guilt,” she explains. “Conscious breathing stabilizes my nervous system more reliably than anything else. I practice regulating my nervous system and building resilience, not using yoga as a workout. I incorporate strength training with bands and weights to support bone health. I walk my dog twice daily most days. One of my most important rituals is fasting after dinner and going to bed by 9 p.m.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Courtesy Sarita-Linda Rocco
Courtesy Dr. Rebecca Hunton
Rediscovering Fun
by Marlaina Donato
From crocodiles to kangaroos, animals in the wild and in captivity exhibit playful sides. Ravens have been known to slide down snowy rooftops, and elephants at a waterhole enjoy splashing their siblings just for the heck of it. Scientists deduce that all intelligent, social
species invent games that take the edge off the struggles of survival.
Humans are no different, but we tend to quell this predisposition after adolescence. Playing tag, riding bikes or running outdoors are childhood pastimes that boosted
our developing brains through the release of feel-good endorphins. As adults, we too often chase the dopamine response with shopping, social media, high-risk activities, or food and alcohol consumption.
In the daily blur of work, obligations and challenges, we tend to forget to set aside the seriousness of life and just play. Feeling self-conscious and fearing judgment from others can be our greatest obstacle to feeling free, but fun might be the medicine we need. Chronic stress or trauma reduces our capacity to feel joy. The less we play, the more our nervous-system response remains compromised, keeping us stuck in fight-or-flight mode.
Rolling around the grass with a beloved pet, camping with the grandkids in the living room on a rainy day, bouncing a ball and playing a fun board game are all wonderful ways to call back the joyful spirit we might have lost. Being goofy and maintaining fun in a romantic partnership can strengthen bonds and help anchor a couple during hard times.
Lightening up in a world that feels angry 24/7 doesn’t mean we aren’t passionate about what matters. Cranking up music while making dinner, racing a lover back to the house, making up a silly scenario or daydreaming for a few minutes on a lunch break can’t change the world, but it can jumpstart our joy.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Stop Trying and Start Doing
A Conversation With Carla Ondrasik
by Sandra Yeyati
Carla Ondrasik is a motivational speaker, life coach and author of Stop Trying!: The Life-Transforming Power of Trying Less and Doing More. Her book, along with one-on-one sessions, workshops and keynote talks, inspire people to shift their mindset from passivity, anxiety and regrets to action, learning and achievement.
She served as the vice president of creative writer development for EMI Music. During her 25-year career in the entertainment industry, she placed hit songs with
Courtesy of Jake Isham
chart-topping artists and iconic performers, including Barbra Streisand, Johnny Mathis, Mariah Carey, Cher and Christina Aguilera. She lives in Southern California with her husband, musical artist John Ondrasik, who she discovered, signed and developed under the moniker Five for Fighting, known for soft-rock hits like Superman, 100 Years and The Riddle
Could you elaborate on the main premise of your book?
The dictionary defines “trying” as an attempt or an effort to do something. We believe trying is brave, that it’s a first step, but it’s merely a half-hearted attempt. There is no physical action for trying—it’s more of a mental exercise. You’re thinking or talking about a goal or writing it on a to-do list. In a car, you shift to neutral when you’re idling. Trying is like keeping your brain in neutral.
If somebody tells you to touch your nose, you’ll probably put your index finger on it—that’s “doing”. But what if someone tells you to try touching your nose? Do you put your finger on your nose or not? There is no action for trying. Our brain responds the same way when we think about trying—it’s a form of decision paralysis.
Why do we so frequently say, “I’ll try”?
We’re taught to try by our parents and teachers who say, “Try your best” or “Try harder.” Trying creates a safety net of excuses so you can say, “Well, I tried, but . . .” and fill in the blank. We also like to blame outside forces: “I tried, but they didn’t have that tool I needed.” When you do something, there’s a built-in accountability, but saying, “I’m going to try” removes any accountability.
We say, “I’ll try,” because it’s hard to say, “No,” especially for women. Trying is also a clever form of procrastination. We say, “I’m trying to do it,” instead of admitting, “I’m going to procrastinate for six weeks” or “I’m never going to do it.”
Subconsciously, we know that trying isn’t the best choice. If you have driving-age kids, you don’t say, “Try to stop at stop signs.” You can’t try to pay your rent or you’ll be evicted. These examples are everywhere, yet we’re not fully conscious of them. I want to restore awareness so people can actually achieve these goals.
How can we make the switch from trying to doing?
At my local park, I asked a man who always wore headphones on his walks, “What are you listening to?” He replied, “Self-help audiobooks, because I have a lot I’m trying to get done.” Hearing “try” caught my attention, so I asked, “What’s one thing you’re trying to do?” He said, “I’m trying to get back into swimming because I need the exercise.” I told him, “Stop trying to swim and just swim.”
The following day at the park, he approached me excitedly, saying, “I did it! I swam! I didn’t try!” This perfectly illustrates what trying looks like—reading books, listening to podcasts, seeking motivation, thinking, worrying, talking, but not doing. Jumping into that pool transformed his life.
I’m not saying that when you stop trying success is guaranteed and all your dreams will come true. However, when you stop
trying, you increase your chances of success. Taking action activates your brain. It’s neuroscience. You speak more assertively, sit up straighter and your eyes shine brighter. You become more confident and feel more motivated and positive.
“Doing” is diving into the deep end of the pool and figuring it out. If swimming a certain way isn’t working or you need a life preserver, you figure it out. Maybe you need to pivot. You may not know if it will work when you start, but that’s when you discover the best path. If you stay stuck in the trying place, you’ll never truly know. Don’t retreat when it gets uncomfortable or scary. Dive in. Taking action is empowering and exciting. Trying leaves you with regrets of things left undone.
How can we overcome our resistance to a more active lifestyle? Perfectionism can keep us stuck in a
cycle of trying. Don’t wait for the perfect time to start something because it’s never going to be the perfect time. Begin now. I suggest starting with something small and manageable. And when you complete it, feel proud of your accomplishment. That small action will motivate you to do the next task and the next, eventually tackling bigger goals and accomplishments.
People complain, “I just can’t get motivated. I’ve been trying so hard, but nothing is happening.” We think that motivation comes first, but actually, action comes first. When you start to do the thing, then you become motivated to keep going.
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL. com/OndrasikWW or scan the QR code.
Wings and Wonder
The Healing Effects of Birdwatching
by Sheryl DeVore
Amale northern cardinal sings “cheer, cheer, cheer” from a maple tree in a suburban neighborhood. Those that have heard or seen the common red bird know how such experiences can uplift the spirit. Birdwatching can help heal the mind and body, as well as enhance cognitive function, according to researchers. The activity, which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service states has 96 million participants in the United States alone, also fosters connections with community, science and the natural world.
The Song of Healing
Holly Merker is a team leader for Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird.org, an online database for reporting avian observations. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32, she had already been an avid birder, traveling extensively to add new species to her list. Her birding style changed after the diagnosis.
“I sought solace in the birds,” she explains. “When I was bald from chemotherapy, I knew that the birds weren’t going to judge me. I could show up and be myself and not be the cancer patient. Birds became my wellness companions.”
On one Mother’s Day during her cancer journey, when she could barely lift her arms to hold her binoculars, Merker found strength at a nearby birding spot. Hearing a familiar birdsong, she spotted the crooner in its nest. “In that moment, I identified what feats of survival that cerulean warbler had gone through,” she recalls. “They spend their winters in South America and fly thousands of miles north through wind and rain to nest. These birds are survivalists to the utmost degree. We were no different from each other.”
Merker co-wrote Ornitherapy: For Your Mind, Body and Soul with acclaimed birder Richard Crossley and his daughter Sophie Crossley. The book champions mindful birdwatching as a form of nature therapy that enhances sensory awareness, relieves stress and improves mental and physical well-being. Now 56 and in good health, Merker offers mindful birding workshops through Ornitherapy.com.
“One thing that really helped me in the first year after I finished my cancer treatment was tending to bluebird nest trails,” she remarks. “It got me walking and moving again. It gave me purpose. It was incredibly therapeutic. All the work I do with conservation, serving on boards and leading walks is because birds helped save my life, and now hopefully I am helping save them. I believe that when we start tuning into birds, we become better stewards of the environment.”
Finding Calm and Cognition
Birdwatching can be a balm for the anxious mind. “Instead of worrying about those problems that keep repeating themselves on a loop inside your head, watching birds can focus you outside yourself, as you search intently for a small movement in the trees, or a hint of color,” says Douglas T. Kenrick, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Arizona State University who began birding in earnest when he was 50
For John Elliott, the beauty of birds, whether seen from the window or in the wild, exudes a calming effect. “Studies have shown that adding birdwatching to a walk in nature increases positive feelings and decreases distress,” says the Chicago Bird Alliance board
member and retired naturalist and education manager for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, in Illinois.
A 2022 study published in Scientific Reports found that everyday encounters with birdlife were associated with lasting improvements in mental well-being in both healthy people and those diagnosed with depression. Another study, published in 2023 in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, reported that birdwatching among nursing home residents led to positive effects in mobility, cognitive function and mental health.
“When we are birding, we are actively engaging our minds and adding to our brain’s neuroplasticity,” Merker remarks. “I tell folks, instead of downloading brain games, watch birds.” A new study published in The Journal of Neuroscience suggests that expert birdwatchers possess superior brain cognition and structural brain differences compared to beginners, which may help protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Tips for Beginners
“Birding on your own is just fine if that suits you, but you can also visit a nature center, which may offer opportunities for birdwatching, including guided walks and feeder observations,” Elliott suggests. “You can also attend free bird walks led by local bird club members or buy a feeder and watch from your window.”
Fancy equipment isn’t necessary. “It’s just about noticing the birds around you and paying attention,” Merker says. “If people want to take it to the next level, a pair of binoculars will enhance their experiences. You’ll get a closer view from a distance. You can get a pair of binoculars on eBay for a good price, and lots of groups let you borrow some.”
Merker suggests finding a place to sit outside—in the backyard, a local park or near a pond. “Then let the birds come to you,” she says. “Whatever bird shows up is enough for you to find joy.”
An outdoors columnist and photographer for the Chicago Tribune, Sheryl DeVore has authored several books on nature. Reach her at sheryldevorewriter@gmail.com.
Resources and Links for Birders
by Sheryl DeVore
Top bird field guides include The Sibley Guide to Birds and National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America. For quick identification, regional guides can be obtained at libraries or bookstores.
The American Birding Association provides comprehensive resources for aspiring birders at aba.org/welcome-new-birders. It also delves into the ethical considerations of birdwatching, emphasizing the importance of maintaining silence and stillness, at aba.org/aba-code-of-birding-ethics.
Free birding apps such as Merlin (Merlin.allaboutbirds.org) and the Audubon Bird Guide app (Audubon.org/app) may be useful in the field.
Bonnie_Taylor_Barry/shutterstock
Hip Health in Just Minutes a Day
A Simple, Empowering Practice
by Maya Whitman
Hip health is not just a concern for athletes or physical therapy patients. It is essential for the way we move, sit, stand, rest and age. Taking care of our hips does not require long workouts or expensive equipment. For everyone from desk workers to busy moms to women navigating midlife transitions, just 10 minutes of stretching and strengthening exercises on alternate days can improve mobility, strength and flexibility. Consistency is key to achieving long-term ease, confidence and vitality.
Common Causes of Hip Discomfort
Several factors can cause hip discomfort. Tightness or weakness in the pelvic muscles can be problematic because they support the pelvis, hips and spine, helping us walk, turn, bend and squat. In fact, if any muscles that support the hips, like the gluteal muscles (buttocks) are weak, other muscles have to work harder, which can lead to hip and lower-back pain.
Other culprits include hormonal changes, especially a drop in estrogen during menopause, which can increase hip pain and the need for hip replacement surgery in women.
Prolonged sitting or lack of physical activity tends to decrease blood circulation in the area and lower the production of synovial fluid, a crucial lubricant and shock absorber that reduces friction and keeps the joint pain-free.
“We’re often told that hip pain in middle-aged women between 40 and 65 is due to aging or arthritis, but most hip pain I see is chronic. Pain may show up suddenly, but the underlying issue has usually been developing under the surface for months or even years,” says physical therapist Maarit Korpilahde, who created the Hip Revive Method, in Lane, Kansas.
She asserts that prolonged sitting can tighten the deep hip rotators, weaken the gluteal muscles and put more pressure on the front part of the hip socket. She recommends engaging in some movement for 10 to 20 minutes at least three or four times a day. Simple actions like standing up, walking, doing a few mini-squats every hour, taking the stairs or parking a bit farther away can make a difference.
Jordan Ashley, the founder and executive director of Souljourn Yoga Foundation, in Santa Monica, California, often sees women with chronic hip tightness and a “locking” of the sacroiliac joint, which she believes might be linked to emotional issues. “Yoga traditions often say our hips hold onto our emotions, almost like the body’s junk drawer. All kinds of stress, old hurts
Glute Bridge
and daily worries can get tucked away there,” she explains, noting that the psoas—a deep, long muscle connecting the lumbar spine to the femur—plays a big role in keeping our trunk stable and moving our hips.
Recommended Moves
Amanda Neri, a physical therapist and owner of The Pelvic Institute, in Chicago, Illinois, believes in keeping hips active with daily exercises, alternating between strength training and stretching. Her favorite mantras are, “Use it or lose it,” and “It’s never too late.”
Strength days can include a glute bridge, standing leg lifts, lunges or resistance-band exercises. On stretch day, yoga poses like the butterfly, frog, happy baby or child’s pose can be great. As with any workout, Neri emphasizes the importance of listening to our bodies and not pushing beyond what feels comfortable.
Standing, Hip-Controlled Articular Rotations: Lift one knee to hip height—this is called hip flexion—and gently make a big, controlled circle without moving the spine or pelvis. Hold onto a wall or something sturdy for balance. “It might feel stiff or crunchy
at first, but after six to eight repetitions, it should get a bit easier,” Neri counsels.
Glute Bridge: Lying on the back with knees bent and feet on the floor, lift the hips up toward the ceiling. Squeeze the glutes and hold for a couple of seconds, then slowly lower back down. Aim for three sets of 10 to 20 repetitions.
Standing Leg Lifts: Stand on one leg and lift the other, straightened, out to the side, front or back to target the hips, glutes or outer thighs. Aim for three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions per leg.
Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch: Using a yoga mat for comfort, kneel on one knee bent at 90 degrees with the other foot flat on the mat in front. With hands on the thigh of the front leg, gently lean forward and feel a comfortable stretch in the upper thigh and hip. Squeeze the glutes on the supporting side for a deeper stretch. Do two to four repetitions before switching leg positions. Try to hold each stretch for 30 seconds.
Seated Hip Shifts: Sit up straight with feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. Place a small ball or foam roller between the knees and squeeze gently. Push one knee slightly forward while pulling the other knee back, keeping the torso steady. Repeat this gentle seesaw motion 10 times per side.
Walking Toe Touch: Walk forward while alternately kicking straight legs up to touch the opposite hand. Only raise each leg to the point of comfort, keeping the supporting leg soft at the knee, not locked straight. Walk like this for up to two minutes.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Pelvic Power
Restoring Strength, Function and Confidence
by Hannah Tytus
The pelvic floor holds the key to vitality, confidence and even pleasure. According to Dr. Anna Cabeca, a holistic gynecologist and bestselling author of The Hormone Fix, “Pelvic floor health is essential for overall health. The pelvic floor is a sling of muscles supporting our critical organs, from the uterus to the bladder to the rectum. Everything is held within this bowl of muscles and connective tissue.”
Pelvic floor disorders are prevalent. A 2022 study in Scientific Reports examined more than 25,000 medical records and found that one in three people had a pelvic floor disorder. These included urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse (displacement) and bowel dysfunction, with incontinence and prolapse being the
most frequent. Such conditions can significantly alter daily life. A 2021 survey of 4,556 women with pelvic floor symptoms showed that 46 percent stopped exercising due to pain or leakage, potentially leading to numerous other issues over time.
Dynamic Exercises for Foundational Integrity
Kim Vopni, a pelvic floor fitness educator and author of Your Pelvic Floor, has dedicated more than two decades to raising awareness about pelvic floor health through her global online community, The Buff Muff Method. Vopni states that the pelvic floor is not just a single muscle but a complex network of muscles in three layers. The first layer mainly affects the sexual response, the second helps with continence and the openings of the
urethra, vagina and anus, and the third, deepest layer primarily supports the organs. “Like the biceps or hamstrings, the pelvic floor can be stretched and strengthened and conditioned,” Vopni points out.
The pelvic floor works in synergy with the diaphragm to create a natural sump pump action that moves fluids, massages organs and supports lymphatic circulation.
“The pelvic floor has to work when we are upright—moving, lifting, coughing, sneezing, pushing and jumping. When we inhale, the diaphragm contracts and widens, and ideally the belly expands and the pelvic floor lengthens,” Vopni explains. “With the exhale, the pelvic floor contracts and lifts as the diaphragm recoils upward. We harness this relationship when we want to prevent or overcome pelvic floor symptoms.”
This explains why the clench-and-release movements known as Kegel exercises, to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, are best done with coordinated breathing. According to Vopni, a proper Kegel includes a squeeze and lift on the exhale and a full, blooming release on the inhale. Aim for three sets of 10 repetitions per day, holding each contraction for about 10 seconds.
“People often think the only thing to do for pelvic floor optimization is Kegels, and that tight means strong. The goal is to move beyond isolated squeezes and train the pelvic floor dynamically within wholebody movement, where the breath and pelvic floor coordination are incorporated into exercises such as bridges, squats and lunges,” says Vopni, who recommends consulting a pelvic floor physical therapist for individualized assessment and guidance, particularly after pregnancy or childbirth.
Vopni highlights key habits that support pelvic floor function, such as staying well hydrated, preventing constipation and engaging in pelvic release work to relax chronically tight muscles. Posture is crucial; high-heeled shoes can misalign the
pelvis and shorten the calves and hamstrings, leading to involuntary clenching of the glutes and pelvic floor muscles, which impairs optimal function. Vopni recommends wearing “zero drop” shoes whenever possible, where the heel and toe are at the same distance from the ground, mimicking a natural barefoot position.
The Vaginal Microbiome
“The vagina has its own microbiome, and many people don’t realize that,” says Cabeca. “When the vaginal microbiome becomes unhealthy, we start to see problems with fertility, sexual function, dryness and infections.” Unlike the gut, which benefits from bacterial diversity, the vaginal microbiome thrives with fewer dominant species. A healthy vaginal microbiome is typically dominated by Lactobacillus species. Cabeca recommends a microbiome-supportive, “keto-green” diet rich in bitter greens, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, high-quality proteins and fermented foods, as well as vaginal probiotics taken in capsule form.
“Many vaginal hygiene products can disrupt the microbiome. Because the pelvic floor has so much vascularity [blood vessels],
those tissues absorb chemicals very easily. That exposure can affect the glands and tissues that help keep the vaginal environment healthy,” Cabeca cautions. She recommends choosing organic menstrual products over conventional tampons and menstrual pads; avoiding heavily fragranced cosmetics; and using gentle cleansers such as olive oil–based soaps.
Knowing Our Bodies
Body awareness is a powerful tool for prevention and early intervention. “One of the most important things I tell patients is: Get a mirror and look down there,” Cabeca says. “You need to know your normal anatomy—what it looks like and what it feels like.” Understanding what is typical for our bodies can make it easier to recognize changes.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring the cultural underpinnings of health.
Natalia_Deriabina/shutterstock
Lessons for Young Female Athletes
How To Support Resilience, Agency and Joy
by Christina Connors
While sports can build confidence, grit and community, girls today often face pressure to over-perform, sacrificing joy for external validation. According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, more than 38 percent of girls in the United States do not participate in sports at all. And for those that do, the pressure to perform can quietly drain the very joy that drew them to the game in the first place.
By age 14, girls drop out of sports at twice the rate of boys, not because of a lack of talent, but for a range of complex factors— from lack of access, cost and transportation challenges to fear of judgment, dwindling confidence and bodies that feel like liabilities rather than assets.
Sports can be among the most powerful laboratories for building lifelong resilience in girls. The field is where they learn to fail forward, push limits, set boundaries and discover that their bodies exist to feel strong, not just look a certain way. The challenge is to make sure they stay long enough to learn those lessons.
The Perfectionism Problem
A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that higher perfectionism in young athletes is linked to lower self-esteem, decreased motivation and increased burnout, largely through patterns of selfblame and catastrophizing. Perfectionism
often arrives wrapped in good intentions: a coach that pushes hard, parents that envision a scholarship or a culture that measures worth in scores and rankings. But when achievement becomes the measure of identity, girls learn that love is conditional, based on performance.
According to Casey Seidenberg, an executive life coach and program leader at Human Better EDU who works directly with young female athletes, “Perfectionism is driven by fear: fear of judgment, failure or not being good enough. Healthy striving, by contrast, is motivated by growth, progress, purpose and self-kindness.”
She invites athletes to ask empowering questions after a hard game, such as, “What did I learn? How do I want to recover? How have I bounced back before?” This reframing transforms setbacks into stepping stones and builds the kind of resilience that extends far beyond sport. “When girls understand that mistakes are expected and even valuable, they stop tying their worth to flawless performance and begin focusing on learning and improvement instead,” Seidenberg explains.
In her view, “The shift from mistakes-as-identity to mistakes-as-information is fundamental. A girl that learns to ask, ‘What can I try differently?’ instead of ‘What’s wrong
with me?’ is building a skill set that will serve her through every hard thing life delivers, on and off the field. This is also where girls learn to set boundaries by listening to their own bodies, knowing when to push and when to rest. That discernment, often called the ability to self-regulate, is something many women spend decades trying to reclaim as adults.”
Identity Beyond the Trophy
One of the most common (and damaging) patterns in girls’ sports is the fusion of identity and achievement. When a girl’s sense of self depends entirely on her stats, ranking or coach’s approval, any stumble on the field becomes an existential threat.
Parents and coaches can help dismantle this by expanding the evidence girls collect about who they are. That means reflecting back moments that have nothing to do with winning, saying, “I noticed how you kept going even when that was hard. You were a great teammate today. You asked for help, and that takes strength.”
“It’s not about a trophy for everyone. It’s about our daughters learning valuable life skills, having fun and being part of a community and a team,” says Lindsay O’Neill-O’Keefe, CEO of Wellness Eternal, host of the podcast OptimizeWE and an ACE Fitness wellness coach.
According to Seidenberg, “When girls repeatedly collect evidence that they are worthy even when they struggle, they develop a more resilient, grounded identity—one that lets them take risks, recover from failure and pursue excellence from a place of healthy striving rather than pressure.”
Preventing Burnout
Burnout does not happen overnight. It builds slowly, through overloaded schedules, year-round single-sport specialization and environments where rest is seen as weakness. The signs, says O’Neill-O’Keefe, are worth knowing: an inability to focus, withdrawn behavior, anxiety or constant worrying. When a girl that once lit up at practice begins dreading it, something has shifted.
Seidenberg frames burnout as what happens when an athlete slips into the passenger seat, reacting to external demands rather than moving toward her own sense of purpose. Her suggested antidote is to help girls reconnect to the reasons they loved the sport in the first place: the fun, the challenge, the freedom and the friendships. “Reconnection also requires looking beyond sport alone, because happiness is influenced by the full landscape of life, including relationships, rest and community,” she asserts.
What Parents and Coaches Can Do
• Celebrate process over outcome. Comment on effort, courage and character rather than only results. “You made a decision under pressure and kept going” lands differently than “Great game.”
• Model resilience instead of shame. On the drive home after a loss ask, “What was the hardest moment for you today?” or “What felt good?”
• Let girls lead. Resist the urge to over-coach or over-manage.
• Embrace low-pressure play. Community leagues, pickup games and summer programs without the weight of scholarship pressure offer girls room to enjoy movement again.
Christina Connors is a burnout prevention specialist, keynote singer and author. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.
More Than Soup
Lentils as a Modern Wellness Staple
by Maya Whitman
Humans have consumed lentils since the Bronze Age, and cultures worldwide, from the Middle East to the Mediterranean, have long valued them. These nutritious legumes gained popularity as a meat substitute in the United States during World War II and remain a cost-effective ingredient in modern kitchens, with the added benefit of being an eco-friendly, sustainable crop.
“Lentils require less water than many other protein sources, and they enrich the soil in which they’re grown,” says Cynthia Sass, a registered dietitian nutritionist and plantbased recipe developer in Los Angeles.
These small seeds from a legume plant are mild, easy to cook and offer endless possibilities for hearty soups, salads, plant-based
“meatloaf”, veggie burgers, dips, stuffings and even sweet desserts. Lentils absorb any flavors added to them, effortlessly highlighting exotic spices and fresh herbs, and can serve as a surprising flour replacement in delicious baked goods.
“When people discover lentils beyond soup, they often realize just how versatile and satisfying this tiny powerhouse can be. They are one of the most versatile foods in the plant-based kitchen,” says Tracy Gunter, a health strategist and owner of Original Origins Health & Wellness, in Columbia, South Carolina.
Vital Properties
According to the Cleveland Clinic, regular lentil consumption leads to healthier blood pressure levels than eating
garbanzos (chickpeas), beans or peas. Their fiber content enhances good gut bacteria and sustains energy throughout the day. Lentils do not cause extreme glucose spikes, making them an excellent addition to a diabetes-management diet and helpful for reducing excessive systemic inflammation. Rich in selenium and zinc, they boost immune response and contain cardiovascular-supportive minerals like potassium. Lentils also provide iron and offer 25 grams of protein per three-and-ahalf ounces. Their high polyphenols content also lowers the risk of cancer, cognitive decline and obesity.
Sass notes, “Lentils make a terrific post-exercise recovery food and can help athletes and active people replenish nutrients they’ve depleted during exercise and heal from the stress a workout puts on muscles and joints.”
Gunter loves lentils for their high nutrition and plant-forward flexibility. “They can easily replace meat in many dishes because of their hearty texture and protein content,” she explains. “They can be seasoned and used as a filling for stuffed peppers, layered into vegetable shepherd’s pie or incorporated into tacos and wraps.”
Varieties and Inspirations
Lentils vary in color and texture, each type cooking differently. Brown lentils are perfect for plant-based “meatloaf”, “meatballs”, vegetarian chili and sloppy joes. Red lentils cook quickly for creamy Italian, Moroccan or Indian-inspired soups,
hearty hummus-like dips and curries. Tiny black lentils (Beluga) and French lentils (Puy) add a firm, nutty texture to food bowls and salads and pair well with roasted Yukon gold or sweet potatoes.
Lentils work well in combination with soft-to-medium-grade tofu for comfort food classics like stuffed shells or manicotti. Additionally, lentil-based desserts such as brownies are decadently moist, and lentil puddings are delightful when made with the addition of dried fruits like Medjool dates.
“Lentils can be incorporated into nearly every type of cuisine and can be included whole or pureed,” says Sass. “Cooked lentils can be tossed with pre-made balsamic vinaigrette, olive tapenade, herbed tahini or vegan pesto and served over a bed of greens along with other raw or cooked veggies.” Although they cook within 10 to 40 minutes, depending on the variety, she suggests buying precooked, steamed lentils in the produce section of many markets as a practical option. Canned organic lentils are another solid alternative.
“One of my favorite ways to prepare lentils is simply simmered with garlic, onion, fresh herbs and a splash of lemon,” says Gunter. “Sometimes the simplest preparations allow their natural flavor and earthy richness to shine.” She also praises the combination of lentils with spices like cumin, turmeric, coriander, smoked paprika and curry, as well as herbs like parsley, cilantro, thyme and rosemary, which aid digestion.
Helpful Tips
Soak lentils for a few hours to enhance digestibility. For perfectly tender lentils, add salt only after cooking. Cook a pot of lentils and
store it in the fridge for use throughout the workweek. Freeze any unused, cooled portions for three to six months in airtight containers.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL POWER SALAD
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
1 cup green or black lentils
3 cups water
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Rinse lentils and place in a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer about 20 to 25 minutes until tender but still holding their shape.
Drain and allow lentils to cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine the cooled lentils with the cucumber, tomatoes, onion and parsley. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil and season with salt and pepper, then toss gently.
This salad is best served at room temperature or chilled. It keeps well for several days and becomes even more flavorful as it marinates.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Tracy Gunter
CREAMY RED LENTIL GARLIC DIP
YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS
1 cup red lentils
2 cups water
2 garlic cloves
2 Tbsp tahini
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp sea salt
Pinch of smoked paprika or turmeric, optional
Rinse lentils and add to a saucepan with water and garlic.
Bring to a boil, then simmer about 12 to 15 minutes, until lentils are soft.
Allow to cool slightly, then transfer the lentils and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle paprika or turmeric on top, if desired. Serve with sliced vegetables, cucumber rounds or warm pita bread.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Tracy Gunter.
Tracy_Gunter
Tracy_Gunter
SUPER GREENS AND BEANS DETOX SALAD
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
½ cup dry brown or green lentils, rinsed
½ cup dry bulgur, rinsed
2 cups kale, destemmed and thinly sliced
1 cup radicchio, thinly sliced (approximately 1 small head or ½ medium head)
2 cups arugula, thinly sliced
2-2⅓ cups radishes, thinly sliced
3 cups unwaxed cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 cups red onion, diced
¼ cup raw walnuts or raw pistachios
Salt and pepper to taste
FOR CREAMY GINGER DRESSING
½ cup plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt
1 Tbsp tahini
2 Tbsp unsweetened rice vinegar
1 Tbsp lime juice
2 tsp coconut aminos or reduced-sodium tamari
1 Tbsp maple syrup
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp minced ginger
In a medium pot over high heat, bring the lentils, bulgur and 2⅓ cups water to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 25 minutes.
To make the creamy ginger dressing, place all the dressing ingredients in a blender along with 2 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the kale, radicchio, arugula, radishes, cucumbers and onion with the cooked bulgur and lentils. Drain any excess water from the cooked bulgur and lentils before adding.
Divide the salad between two bowls for a main meal or between four bowls if served as a side. Add the dressing, walnuts, and salt and pepper to taste, and toss well
Recipe from the cookbook Powered by Plants: Nutrient-Loaded 30-Minute Meals to Help You Thrive by Food Revolution Network CEO Ocean Robbins and Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RD, published by Hay House.
ZESTY FIESTA MUSHROOM-LENTIL “CHORIZO” TACO BOWL
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
FOR THE MUSHROOM-LENTIL “CHORIZO”
2 cups sliced cremini mushrooms
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ancho chili powder, optional
1 tsp ground cumin
4 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
FOR THE BOWL
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup romaine lettuce, thinly sliced
½ cup diced Roma tomatoes
¼ cup diced red onion
1 avocado, cubed
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp sweet paprika
1⅛ tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup home-cooked or 8 oz can of green or brown lentils, drained
2 cup raw walnuts
4 tsp salt, optional
¼ tsp ground black pepper, optional
1-2 Tbsp lime juice
Salt to taste, optional
Ground black pepper to taste, optional
2-4 Tbsp chopped cilantro
¼ cup salsa of choice, optional
To make the mushroom-lentil “chorizo”, cook the mushrooms in a medium pan over medium-high heat until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water as needed to deglaze the pan. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix all the spices and set them aside.
In a food processor, pulse the mushrooms, lentils, walnuts and spices until a coarse meal is formed. Add salt and pepper to taste.
To assemble the bowl, divide the cooked rice, “chorizo”, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and avocado between two bowls. Drizzle the lime juice on top and sprinkle with salt, pepper and cilantro. Add 2 tablespoons of salsa per serving.
Recipe from the cookbook Powered by Plants: Nutrient-Loaded 30-Minute Meals to Help You Thrive by Food Revolution Network CEO Ocean Robbins and Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RD, published by Hay House.
Angela_MacNeil_Photography
Giving an Old Bike New Life
by Natural Awakenings staff
Bicycling is more than just exercise; it is a joyful, practical and eco-friendly habit. A well-maintained bike is one of the greenest transportation options, reducing carbon emissions and saving money. Whether we ride daily or only when the weather is nice, an annual tune-up ensures every ride is safer, smoother and more enjoyable.
When a bike is collecting dust or replaced by a newer model, it is time to sell, gift or donate it to extend its life and let someone else enjoy it. For bikes beyond repair, recycling or responsible disposal prevents them from ending up in landfills.
Basic Tune-Up: Begin by checking and inflating the tire pressure. Wipe off dirt and lubricate the chain. Test and adjust the brakes for safety. Ensure the seat and handlebars are properly fitted and tightened. For issues like squeaky brakes, skipping gears or a rough ride, consider professional help from a bike repair shop.
Selling Tips: Selling to a friend or neighbor is ideal. Some local bike shops offer trade-ins or credit toward upgrades. Before listing a bike for sale, clean it thoroughly and perform a basic tune-up. Capture high-quality, well-lit photos of all components to attract buyers. To set a competitive price, consult BicycleBlueBook.com or a similar site. List the bike on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay and specialized sites such as BuyCycle.com and BikeFair.org. Be honest about the bike’s condition and specifications, including frame size and any upgrades or damage. For cash transactions, meet in a public, well-lit area for safety.
Donation Strategies: Donate bikes to local bike shops, nonprofit consignment stores, churches, schools, youth centers or charities like Goodwill or The Salvation Army. Call ahead to confirm that the organization accepts bicycles and to check their requirements. Most prefer bikes in working order or easily repairable, but cleaning or repairing the bike before donating is not necessary.
Recycling Advice: Take unrepairable bikes to a local recycling center. Disassemble metal parts, tires and tubes for recycling through local programs. Junk removal services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK handle disposal and recycling. Community trash collection agencies may pick up old bikes for proper disposal.
Upcycling Ideas: Bike frames and parts can be used to create home decor, sculptures, garden containers and even lamps. Use bike rims for a coffee table, gears for wind chimes, a bike wheel for a clock, bike chains for a chandelier, handlebars for a candelabra, or an intact bike as a garden decoration or plant holder.
Holistic Weight Management for Cats
Tips to Improve Nutrition and Encourage Physical Activity
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Feline obesity has become one of the most common health threats facing domestic cats. Nearly 60 percent of U.S. cats are overweight, according to research from the University of Illinois. Yet many guardians do not recognize the problem until illness develops. Because cats hide discomfort, early warning signs are often missed. What seems like a harmless extra pound may signal a serious health issue. Addressing this silent epidemic is critical to protecting feline longevity and quality of life.
Why Cats Gain Weight
Feline weight gain rarely has a single cause. It develops from a combination of diet, lifestyle and environment. Indoor cats live longer, but move far less than outdoor cats. In the wild, they spend hours hunting and exploring. Indoor living eliminates such activities. Research in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery confirms that obesity rises when calorie intake regularly exceeds energy use, a common pattern in inactive indoor cats.
Feeding habits drive the problem. Free-choice feeding and energydense commercial diets lead to excess weight. Cat wellness advocates Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre, CEOs of The Two Crazy Cat Ladies, link modern feeding patterns to rising obesity. “Based on industry sales reports and consumer surveys over the past decade, the
vast majority of cat food sold globally is ultra-processed commercial food,” Kennedy says. Dry kibble, in particular, is produced with a high-heat, multi-step manufacturing process.
According to Lefebvre, “Many kibble formulas contain high levels of carbohydrates
and starches, which act like sugar in the body and contribute to weight gain.” Research backs this up. A study published in Preventive Veterinary Medicine found that cats fed primarily dry food were twice as likely to become obese by age 2 compared with cats on wet or mixed diets. High-carbohydrate, calorie-dense food and low activity create the perfect storm for a growing feline obesity epidemic.
The Ripple Effect
Excess weight raises the risk of insulin resistance, which disrupts blood sugar regulation. A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery reports that obesity reduces insulin sensitivity in cats, increasing the likelihood of developing diabetes.
Extra body fat also strains joints and triggers inflammation. A study published in BMC Veterinary Research linked higher body fat to worsening whole-body osteoarthritis scores, particularly in the hips, elbows and leg joints. Over time, joint degeneration can limit mobility and causes chronic pain. Because cats rely on jumping and climbing to navigate their environment, even mild discomfort may significantly alter daily behavior.
Obesity can also trigger deeper physiological changes. A review published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical GoodFocused/shutterstock
Debie Dean from Pinellas Park shares this adorable photo of Bowie, a 1½-year-old Yorkshire Terrier. Bowie is a rescue who is just beginning to learn how to play. Right now, he enjoys playing with his stuffed toys and chasing his kitty siblings.
Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.
Association notes that excess body fat can create a constant low-level inflammatory state, increasing the risk of metabolic and hormone-related disorders, joint disease, heart and respiratory problems, urinary issues and even certain cancers.
Recognizing these conditions is challenging because cats instinctively hide pain. Subtle behavioral changes are often the earliest signs. Cats with joint discomfort may hesitate before jumping, stop climbing onto high surfaces or show less interest in play. Because these changes develop gradually, they are frequently mistaken for normal aging, when they may actually reflect underlying health issues linked to excess weight.
Building Healthy Habits
Successful weight management often requires more than cutting portions. A holistic plan integrates nutrition, lifestyle and environment. Species-appropriate diets rich in animal protein and moisture mimic natural prey, while scheduled meals and portion control prevent unhealthy grazing.
“Because we confine our cats to four walls when we bring them inside, it becomes our responsibility to help them move and exercise their bodies,” Kennedy advises. Cats are instinctive hunters, yet indoor environments often provide little opportunity for stalking, climbing or chasing. Environmental enrichment such as puzzle feeders, vertical climbing spaces and interactive play can help restore these natural patterns of activity.
To help a 26-pound, kibble-loving cat they adopted, Kennedy and Lefebvre hid small portions of food around the house to encourage hunting. The added movement alone jump-started weight loss. Gradually, they introduced fresh food and daily play sessions, and the cat reached a healthy weight in months. The lesson is clear: sustainable weight management relies on consistent habits, balanced nutrition, measured portions and regular activity.
Cats are natural carnivores and fat burners, not carbohydrate processors. Diets rich in animal protein and fat with minimal carbohydrates support healthy metabolism and natural satiety. Transitioning from dry kibble to moisture-rich, high-protein foods, such as quality canned diets or balanced home-prepared meals, improves hydration and kidney health, while helping cats feel satisfied rather than constantly hungry.
Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Printed calendar is a gratis feature for advertisers. Non-advertisers: get your Mark Your Calendar event listed for $50/listing. Email dwilson@natampa.com for more information. On line version of Calendar of Events gratis at NATampa.com.
Calendar of Events
Saturday, May 2
2nd Annual Naked Olympics- A clothing optional day of fun and games! $10 per person. Bare RV Resort, 6901 Caliente Blvd., Land O Lakes, FL 34637. Call 813-9966008 for more information.
Friday, May 8
Mushroom Medicine Making SeriesMaitake - 6-8pm. Making medicine from mushrooms offers numerous benefits, including their therapeutic properties that support immune function, cognitive health, and overall wellness. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, mushrooms also contribute to nutrition. In this interactive class, Ruthie will guide you through the basics of each mushroom and optimal strategies to harness their medicinal qualities. Engage your senses with activities like tea tastings and sampling snacks made with the featured mushrooms. Be sure to bring two 8-ounce jars for the medicine-making portion, where you’ll create one herbal concoction on your own and collaborate on another with the entire class. To register for this class visit:TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Sunday, May 10
Happy Mother’s Day
Thursday, May 14
The 5 Seasons of TCM Series - Wood Season - 6-8pm. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the year is viewed as five seasons—each influencing body, mind, and spirit. Spring aligns with the Wood element, symbolizing growth, renewal, and creativity. This class guides participants in exploring herbs that support the Liver and Gallbladder, aiding detoxification and emotional balance. Seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices will be introduced to help align with Spring’s energy and support overall wellness. Register at TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Tuesday, May 19
Communicating with Your Guardian Angels- 21, & 25 May, 6:30-7:30 pm each day. Join Pamela Elkington in learning about Angels and how your Guardian Angels
communicate with you. You will get your questions answered and do exercises using your inner hearing, seeing, knowing, feeling, tasting and smelling. $75, Zoom, Info. and registration: Pamela (813)2157194, or AngelicOutcomes@gmail.com.
Wednesday, May 20
Hypnosis-NLP Webinar “Hypnosis = Change” – 7:30-8:30pm – Interactive webinar hosted by Board Certified Medical Hypnotherapist, Master Trainer & NLP Master Practitioner, Patricia V. Scott Ph.D. Patti shares 34 years of experience with practical, easy to use concepts & techniques with Q&A. All welcome 3rd Wednesday monthly w/various topics. 1 CEU (Hypnotist/Hypnotherapist). Free, Register for login details: UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com.
Thursday, May 21
Anatomy for the Herbalist - Endocrine System - 6-8pm. Dive into the endocrine system, a complex network of glands that produce and release hormones essential for regulating key bodily functions like metabolism, growth, and mood. By secreting chemical messengers into the bloodstream, the endocrine system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating processes throughout the body.. Participants will explore its structure and functions while also examining common disorders that impact this vital system. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Saturday, May 30
Hypnosis International Certification begins – Get 3 Certifications, International Association of Counselors & Therapists, International Hypnosis Federation & UP Hypnosis Institute with Patricia V. Scott, Ph.D, On-line (ZOOM) w/some possible “Live” for locals (Oldsmar). Basic & advanced techniques, NLP, medical uses, regression, parts-integration, Time-line, Smoke-FREE, weight control & more. Enroll by 5/4 for Early Discount. Pay-Over-Time available. UPHypnosis.com.
Thursday, June 4
The Pillars of Health with Ayurveda Series - Digestion & Nutrition - 6-8pm. In Ayurveda, digestion is everything. Known as agni, your digestive fire governs not only how you break down food but also how you process thoughts, emotions, and experiences. When
agni is strong, health flourishes; when it’s weak or imbalanced, disease can take root. This class explores how to support healthy digestion using Ayurvedic principles and herbs. You’ll learn how to identify your digestive type (Tikshna, Manda, Vishama) and how to restore balance using food, spices, and traditional digestive herbs like Ginger, Ajwain, Triphala, and Cardamom. We’ll explore the six tastes (rasa) and how understanding taste can help you build meals that are not only nourishing but deeply supportive to your individual body’s needs. Whether you’re experiencing bloating, sluggish digestion, or irregular appetite, this class offers tools for strengthening your agni, tuning into your body’s cues, and bringing more awareness to how and what you eat. We’ll be making medicine together in class-bring your 4oz jar along to take home your herbal goodies! To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Friday, June 5
Herbal Safety - Herb-Drug Interactions6-8pm. We are thrilled to once again offer our FREE class on Herbal Safety, featuring Bob’s expert insights on how to safely incorporate herbs into your wellness routine. In this informative session, you’ll learn how to prevent herb and drug interactions, ensure quality control, and address potential nutritional depletion. Bob will also explore the concept of positive herb and drug interactions, offering a balanced view on this important topic. Ideal for both the general public and essential for herb and acupuncture students, this class is a must-attend for anyone interested in herbal medicine. Free. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Thursday, June 11
TCM: Auricular Theory - 6-8pm. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the ear is considered the most external reflection of the central nervous system. Auriculotherapy refers to the treatment and assessment of pain, musculoskeletal disorders, stress and various medical conditions through the application of seeds, magnets and massage to specific points on the ear. Gain a practical understanding of how to treat the body via the ear, and specifically by using ear seeds based on Dr. LiChun Huang’s methods. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727249-1174.
Saturday June 13
4th Anniversary Pool Party and BBQ at bare RV Resort - Help bare RV Resort celebrate our 4th anniversary! A clothing optional pool party with live music, a BBQ and lots of fun. Ladies, $15, Gentlemen $30, Couples $35. Bare RV Resort, 6901 Caliente Blvd Land O Lakes, FL 34637. Call 813-996-6008 for more information.
Saturday, June 20
Topical Herbs for Pain - 6-8pm. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore how to use topical herbal remedies to ease pain and inflammation, drawing from both Chinese and Western herbal traditions. You’ll learn about herbs that support circulation, reduce stagnation, and relieve discomfort through salves, liniments, poultices, and plasters. We’ll dive into traditional preparation methods and participants will get to make and take home their own herbal formulas. Along the way, we’ll discuss the energetic and physical properties of key herbs and how to match them to different types of pain. Whether you’re addressing sore muscles, joint pain, or chronic tension, this workshop offers practical tools for herbal relief. To register for this class visit:TraditionsHerbSchool. com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Saturday, June 23
Wellness Discovery Day - 11am-4pm. A community-centered experience designed to educate, connect and inspire. Created for our clients, neighbors, like-minded practitioners and first-time guests. Explore live demos, gain insights from practitioners and connect with individuals facing chronic health issues. Walk in any time or show up for one of our scheduled group discussions. Free.. Professional Lymphatic Therapy & Colonics, 9371-B US Hwy 19 N, PPark, 33782. @ ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy@ gmail.com. 727-492-0060.
Thursday, June 25
Seasonal Medicine Making Series - Summer Solstice - 6-8pm. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year and the official start of summer, symbolizing abundance, growth, and vitality. Celebrated across cultures, it highlights connection to nature, light, and community. Join Ruthie for a joyful Summer Solstice celebration featuring herbs, recipes, and seasonal stories. Create your own personalized herbal blend and take part in a group blending activity—bring two 8-ounce jars for your creations.To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.
Saturday, July 11
Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification (on-line) – 1:00-6:00pm. Four interactive weekends plus outside assignments. Prerequisite: 200 hours prior hypnosis training. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer for the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association teaches medical applications to work with referrals. Dates: July 11-12, 25-26; Aug. 8-9, 22-23. Early registration discount before 6/15. Pay-Over-Time option available. UPHypnosis.com.
Ongoing Events
Sunday
Unity North Tampa – 11am. A spiritual home for all. This welcoming spiritual community celebrates the power of positive thinking and prayer as pathways to spiritual and physical well-being. Everyone is invited to join us on Sundays to enjoy inspiring guest speakers who share wisdom on expanding consciousness and living with intention. Unity North Tampa Spiritual Center, 19520 Holly Lane, Lutz. 813-948-4884. UnityNorthTampa.org.
ACIM Group Discussion Sessions – 1pm. A Course in Miracles (ACIM) is a unique spiritual self-study program designed to awaken us to our true nature as Love. Join us for discussion each week to be spiritually fed and inspired. $10 Love Offering. Unity North Tampa Spiritual Center, 19520 Holly Lane. 813-948-4884.
Monday
Meacham Urban Farm – 3-7pm Mon. & Fri. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more: MeachamFarm.com.
Qigong for the Heart – 6pm. Discover the body mechanics and alignment of each Qigong exercises plus the essential theory, behind each movement, Development healing energy to achieve inner power and balance. Receive the teaching of a qualified master like Shifu Orlando Schiaffino who has 40 years of experience in Taichi ,Qigong & internal Arts. Take advantage of our summer special, Your first month $59.99. One class $15. All levels are welcome. Fire Stone Shamanic Healing Center, 1217 Ewing St, Clearwater. FireStoneHealing.com. 727-2253990.
Wednesday
Yoga Session: Hatha Yoga with a Therapist – 6:30-7:30ish pm. Join Elizabeth Rice, LCSW ACE CFI, for a yoga session that will not only strengthen your mind-body connection, but will help you to get in deeper touch with your inner calm. Space is limited, reserve now. $15/per session. 6251 Park Blvd, Ste 9, Pinellas Park. 727-346-5875.
Qigong for Bone Density & Taichi – 7:15pm. Discover the body mechanics and alignment of each Qigong exercises plus the essential theory, behind each movement, Development healing energy to achieve inner power and balance. Receive the teaching of a qualified master like Shifu Orlando Schiaffino who has 40 years of experience in taichi ,qigong & internal arts. Take advantage of our summer special, Your first month $59.99. One class $15. All levels are welcome. Fire Stone Shamanic Healing Center, 1217 Ewing St, Clearwater. FireStoneHealing.com. 727-225-3990.
Saturday
We can choose to be positive or negative. I choose positive.
—Joyce Meyer
Meacham Urban Farm – 9am-1pm Sat. 10am-1pm Sun. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more: MeachamFarm.com. Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@ natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community.
Alternative Medicine
LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. David Minkoff, M.D.
Dr. Griselle Figueredo, M.D.
Dr. Neena Iyer, M.D., Dr. Dawn Frankwick M.D.
Sue Morgan, APRN, Karima Redouan, APRN
Rose Tyler, APRN
301 Turner St, Clearwater 727-466-6789
LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com
Specializing in Ozone Therapy, IV Therapy, Heavy Metal Detoxification, Neurological Issues, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Gut Issues, Thyroid Issues and IPT for Cancer treatment. See ad inside front cover.
ORTHOMOLECULAR NUTRITION & WELLNESS
9225 Ulmerton Rd, Ste 312, Largo 727-518-9808
OrthoLiving.com
We address the underlying root cause of disease by using a variety of modalities such as Nutrient IV’s, Chelation, Weight loss, HRT, PEMF, Ozone Therapy and more. To see if you qualify for Medical Marijuana go to OrthoMMJ.com.
Dr. Grossgold practices internal medicine and pediatrics with an integrative approach to detoxification, anti-aging medicine, functional medicine and nutrition. His clinic offers Integrative Cancer Treatment, Cryotherapy, Hyperbaric, EBOO, MHA, UVBI, Theta Chamber and more! See ad, page 17.
Clinical herbalist and massage therapist offering consultations, extensive line of Eastern/Western Herbs, Teas, Essential oils, CBD, Supplements, and learning workshops. Visit your neighborhood apothecary today! See ad, page 25.
Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. Over 25 years of experience. Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”
Colon Hydrotherapy
RENEW LIFE
Bonnie Barrett 28469 US Hwy 19 N, #402, Clearwater 727-461-7227
RenewLifeFla.com #MA14802, #MM35406
30 years experience. Expert in colon hydrotherapy using pressure points, abdominal massage, essential oils, and lymphatic drainage. All disposable tubing used. Very comfortable and relaxing room with private bathroom. See ad, page 17.
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner 9371 US 19N, Ste. B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Complementing detoxification via “Lymphatic Therapy” (see listing), now offering Gravity Method colonics (closed system method), known to be gentler and more effective than other methods. See ad, page 31.
GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Lisa Harris-Dalton, Bonnie Barrett 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844
Counseling
ELIZABETH RICE, LCSW 6251 Park Blvd, Ste 9C Pinellas Park 33781 727-300-9382
esLifeCoach.com, License SW15178
Heal the whole being including body, mind, spirit and emotions. Increase your quality of life; facilitate emotional healing. Specializing in Anxiety, Mood, Behavior, Trauma, Family. See ad, page 23.
Dentists
BEATA CARLSON, DDS
1825 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater 727-888-6523
NaturalAndCosmeticDentistry.com
Natural, Holistic, Aesthetic Dentistry. Careful Silver filling removal. Nonmetal crowns and bridges. Be pampered in our Spa-like atmosphere. See ad back cover.
CARLO LITANO, DMD
Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 132 Mirror Lake Dr, Ste 101, St. Petersburg 727-300-0044, Natural-Smiles.com
Offering Holistic/Biological dentistry. Swiss dental protocols, ceramic implants, safe mercury removal, ozone cleaning and on site sedation. See ad, page 4.
THERESA RODEGHERO, DMD
Clearwater Family Dental
215 S Myrtle Ave, Clearwater 727-442-3363
MyClearWaterFamilyDental.com
We are a full service family dental practice that stresses metal free restorations, safe mercury removal, ozone and laser dentistry. We welcome patients of all ages and can handle any concern that you may hAve, See ad, pages 3 and 7.
TheGClinic.org #MA27502, #MA14802, #MM43949, Compassionate therapist with 26+ years’ experience in massage therapy and open and closed colon hydrotherapy systems, including the Angel of Water system. Skilled in collaborating with clients/physicians to optimize wellness goals. See ad, page 17.
Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.
—Dalai Lama
ROBERT J. YU, DMD
Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics
6700 Crosswinds Dr, Ste 200-B, St. Pete 727-384-9122
TBPerio.com
The only board certified periodontist and implant surgeon in Tampa Bay offering ceramic/zirconia non-metal implants. State-of-the-art treatments include CBT imaging, LANAP and digital intraoral scanner, eliminating messy impressions. See ad, page 9.
Harmonic Egg®
GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Andressa Junqueira #FS944298
609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org
Rebalance the body’s energy, activate natural healing, and enhance your wellness journey. Utilizing sacred geometry, the resonance chamber will envelop you with sound frequencies, light therapy, and vibration. See ad, page 17.
Holistic Nutrition
NATURE-BASED HEALTH & NUTRITION
Collin Gow, C.N.C. 813-377-7705
collingowcnc@gmail.com
Certified nutritional consultant of 17 years offering holistic, personalized supplement recommendations, meal plans, lab tests and analysis, facial blood flow scans, earthing sessions and plant and mushroom ID hikes.
Hypnosis
UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES HYPNOSIS, INC.
Patricia V. Scott, President 727-943-5003
UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com
Professional Hypnosis & NLP Certification Training, Weekly classes & Private sessions (Smoking, Weight, Stress, Sports, Habits), Clinical/ Medical Hypnotherapy available w/ referral. Speaking Services & Corporate Programs. See ad, page 29.
Integrative Medicine
INTEGRATIVE THERAPEUTICS
Dr. Prudhvi Karumanchi 8320 Stone Run Ct, Tampa 33615 813-322-6171
IntTherapeutics.com
Committed to finding the root cause, Holistic MD offers: IV Nutrition, Regenerative Treatments, Functional Medicine, Heavy Metal Detox, Energy Healing, Weight Loss, Anti-aging, Ozone Therapy, Acupuncture, PRP & Stem Cell Therapy. Out-of-Network Provider.
INTEGRAL URGENT CARE
130 Island Way, Clearwater 727-233-1933
IntegralUrgentCare.com
Integral Urgent Care & Wellness prioritizes patient centered care, providing wellness and walk-in Urgent Care services weekdays 9am-3pm.
Lymphatic Therapy
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT, and Owner 9371 US 19N, Ste B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Specializing in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and lymphatic enhancement therapy (LET). Professional Lymphatic helps those with challenging conditions including inflammation, mold toxicity; auto-immune conditions, post chemo healing, etc. See ad, page 31.
Tracie Leonhardt, DO 1120 Belcher Rd S, Ste 2, Largo 727-826-0838
PeaksOfHealth.com
Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient. Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad, page 11.
SUCCESS BY DESIGN
9095 Belcher Rd, N, Pinellas Park 727-548-0001
SBDWellness.com
A Wellness Center for Age-Management, Functional Medicine and Medical Weight Loss. Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement including Pellet Therapy, Gut Health/Food Allergies, Detoxification, Nutritional Evaluations, Acupuncture, Massage therapy and more. See ad, page 27.
CManual and Assisted Lymphatic Therapy & Colon Hydrotherapy with I-ACT Training. Longtime health and wellness advocate with 24+ years’ experience in massage and colonic therapies. See ad, page 17.
Reflexology
REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES
Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater, MA0028171
Whether you need deep therapy, a tune-up or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.
RV Resort
BARE RV RESORT
6901 Caliente Blvd Land O’Lakes 34637 813-996-6008
BareRVResort.com
A clothing optional oasis, resort and campground perfect for first-time nudists. Women owned/operated, offering a welcoming and relaxing environment to be at one with nature.
Schools
TRADITIONS SCHOOL OF HERBAL STUDIES
2 Year Clinical Certification
6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg
727-249-1174
TraditionsHerbSchool.com
Experience natural healing with immersive herbalism classes covering medicine making, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anatomy, Physiology, Ayurvedic practices, and more. Suitable for all levels, the program offers a twoyear Clinical Certification and weekly Community Classes. Grow and thrive with us. See ad, page 21.
Spiritual Intuitive
UNIVERSOULLIGHT CONSULTING
Rev. Amanda Segovia, Reiki Master
Certified SRT Personal Consultant UniverSoulLight.com
UniverSoulLight@gmail.com
Private sessions using various healing, clearing & spiritual modalities. Akashic Records, Intuitive Medium, Astrologer, Personalized Astrology Reports, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/ Mentor & more.
Thermography
GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY
John D. Bartone MD 7901 4th St, N, Ste 316 St. Petersburg, FL 33702
727-576-0100
GreenPointThermography.com
The only physician owned and operated thermography practice in Tampa Bay – serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Accredited by the American College of Clinical Thermology. See ad, page 10.
Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you. See ad, page 8.
Veterinarian
HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM 2189 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL 33765
727-510-3665
HealthyPawsibilities.com
Offering only holistic health options. Nutrition, herbal support, body balancing, canine fitness, reiki and more. See ad, page 41.
SUPPORT LOCAL ADVERTISING
PAWSITIVE VETERINARY CARE
Shawna L. Green, DVM 11125 Park Blvd, Ste 108, Seminole 727-299-9029
Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet, offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more. See ad, page 41.
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