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

From Stress to Regulation THE RISE OF

SOMATIC WELLNESS

Nutritious Nachos Yummy Ideas Everyone Will

LOVE

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Benefits of Functional

YOGA

Moving Through Life With Greater Mobility

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

The Role of Gut Health in Behavioral Issues

Inner Balance TAMPA BAY EDITION

SEPTEMBER 2026

September 2026

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September 2026

Publisher ’s Letter

eptember has a way of inviting a fresh start. As the pace of summer begins to soften and Labor Day celebrates the dedication and contributions of workers everywhere, the month offers a welcome reminder that a fulfilling life includes not only meaningful work, but also time to rest, restore and enjoy the simple pleasures along the way. This issue embraces that spirit of balance. From Stress to Regulation explores the growing world of somatic wellness and the value of reconnecting with the body. Benefits of Functional Yoga shows how thoughtful movement can support mobility, strength and greater ease in everyday life. There is room for a little delicious fun, too. Nutritious Nachos serves up wholesome twists on a much-loved favorite, proving that nourishing choices can still feel like a treat. And wellness would not be complete without remembering the animals who bring so much joy and companionship into the home. Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats explores the connection between gut health and behavior and how supporting pets from within may help them feel their best. This September, readers are encouraged to savor the changing season, care for themselves and those they love, and find small moments each day to move, nourish, connect and simply enjoy life. As always, with an open mind, read on.

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Contents 18 Homeopathy Underneath The Microscope 20 Introduction to Somatic Therapies 24 Mindful Interdependence 27 Sowing Seeds of Promise 28 Nutritious Nachos

32 Home Energy Resilience 34 Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility 36 Healing Harmonies

38 The Power of Movement

Departments

40 Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

13 News Briefs

24 Wise Words

36 Healing Ways

14 Health Briefs

27 Inspiration

38 Healthy Kids

16 Global Briefs

28 Conscious Eating

40 Natural Pet

18 Homeopathy

32 Green Living

42 Calendar

20 Feature Story

34 Fit Body

44 Resource Guide

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Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

News Briefs

Refresh & Renew Special at ReNew Life

Feeling bloated, sluggish or in need of a reset? Now is a great time to get your body, mind and spirit cleansed and renewed. With 35 years’ experience, Bonnie Barrett of ReNew Life offers colonics using massage, essential oils and lymphatic drainage in a relaxing room. If you are not familiar with a colonic, it’s a gentle way of cleansing your large intestine, eliminating toxins, gas, mucus and fecal matter. A therapist stays with you the entire time—no need to do it yourself. It will leave you feeling light, energetic and happy. Eighty percent of our immune system is directly related to our digestive system—what you put in, absorb and eliminate. Colonics help keep your digestive system working optimally. It’s done with disposable tubing and very low pressure. It’s simple and easy, and you will be amazed at how great you feel after. A colonic at ReNew Life can address issues, including gas/bloating; low energy; weight gain/poor digestion; stress; constipation; headaches/migraines; low back pain; and skin issues/acne. Refresh & Renew Special: Receive three colonics with LBG lymphatic drainage for $320 (regularly $390). Location: 28469 U.S. Hwy. 19 N, #402, Clearwater. For more information and appointments, call 727-461-7227 and/or visit ReNewLifefla.com. MA14802; MM12728. See ad, page 15.

International Longevity Center

he Grossgold Clinic International Longevity Center provides a comprehensive, integrative approach to complex health conditions, combining advanced medical technologies with holistic and energy-based therapies to support the body’s natural healing abilities. The clinic offers integrative care for cancer, autoimmune conditions, and chronic illnesses, including support for patients experiencing toxic mold exposure, chronic inflammation, and immune dysregulation. Personalized treatment programs focus on identifying root causes of illness while strengthening cellular resilience and improving overall vitality. Care at the clinic blends innovative medical therapies with intuitive and energetic healing modalities. Treatments may include advanced oxygen therapies, cellular and mitochondrial support through epigenetic optimization, and specialized blood purification therapies designed to assist detoxification and promote immune balance. To support whole-body healing, the clinic also incorporates frequency-based technologies such as the Harmonic Egg® and Theta Chamber, along with other integrative therapies that promote deep relaxation, energetic balance, and nervous system regulation. The Center provides integrative medicine, advanced detoxification, and cellular and energy healing services, serving the Tampa Bay community with innovative and compassionate care. Location: 609 Lakeview Rd., Clearwater. For appointments, call 727-330-3844 and/or visit TheClinic.org. See ad, page 23.

September 2026

Health Briefs

Microbiome Effects on Colorectal Cancer Risk

The Decrease in Peanut Allergies

Peanut allergies are severe, and approximately 80 percent of affected children fail to outgrow them. For decades, experts have recommended that parents avoid feeding peanut products to infants to prevent the allergy from developing. Then in 2015, a study in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that early introduction of peanut products—at between 4 and 11 months of age—significantly decreased the development of peanut allergies among children at high risk for the allergy. Following this study, early introduction of peanut products has become a standard practice to build immune tolerance.

A study led by Harvard University and published in Cell Host & Microbe found that more than a decade after the removal of a precancerous mass known as an adenoma from the colon, changes in the gut microbiome and certain metabolites persist, potentially contributing to an elevated risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The study also found that a poor diet and limited physical activity are more closely associated with the abundance of these CRC-related gut microbes in people with a history of adenoma compared to adenoma-free individuals, suggesting that lifestyle choices play an important role in the gut microbiome of this high-risk group.

Largest Integrated Health Database

In June, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) All of Us Research Program unveiled the world’s most extensive health database. More than 747,000 Americans from all 50 states contributed data, encompassing 535,000 complete genomes associated with 482,000 electronic health records and data from wearable technology like Fitbit. The database also includes participants’ socioeconomic information, sleep data and location-based air quality statistics. The database’s most significant advantage lies in its diverse participant pool. By contrast, the other leading health database, UK Biobank, includes genetic and other information on 500,000 participants, predominantly of white European descent. The NIH program began enrolling participants in 2018 with a goal of including 1 million Americans for at least 10 years to study the interplay between genes and lifestyle and environmental factors. More than 23,000 researchers have used the database and authored more 14

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than 1,400 peer-reviewed publications. Despite the NIH announcement, the program’s funding is scheduled to expire at the end of 2026. More than 50 medical organizations have petitioned Congress to allocate new funding or risk losing what has been built.

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CRC is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, and the removal of adenomas is one of the most effective prevention procedures. However, people that have undergone this measure still face an elevated risk of developing CRC. The study involved more than 700 participants—half with a history of adenoma and the other half without. Researchers observed that further research is needed to determine whether modifying the gut microbiome through diet and exercise reduces the risk of CRC.

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A new study published in the journal Pediatrics looked at how the implementation of the 2015 recommendations affected the peanut allergy rate. Researchers discovered that the overall food allergy rate in children under 3 dropped to 0.93 percent between 2017 and 2020 from 1.46 percent between 2012 and 2015. This 36 percent decrease in the overall rate was driven by a 43 percent drop in peanut allergies, confirming the benefit of the 2015 public health recommendation.

Microplastics Linked to Heart Disease

A 2024 study in The New England Journal of Medicine involving more than 300 participants revealed a significant association between carotid artery plaque containing micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or death.

Black Chokeberry and Bee Pollen for Athletes

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between unstable free radicals and antioxidants, leading to cell and tissue damage, potentially increasing inflammation and the risk of chronic conditions. Intense physical activity generates high levels of free radicals, and antioxidant supplementation is often recommended for athletes.

A subsequent cross-sectional study published this year in the European Heart Journal further evaluated the relationship between plastic pollution and cardiovascular health. The study involved 61 participants suspected of having coronary artery disease who underwent coronary angiography—a specialized X-ray test that uses contrast dye to visualize blood flow through the arteries. The participants were categorized into three groups based on the angiography results: severe, life-threatening heart attack caused by coronary artery blockage; chronic coronary disease (CCD); and normal coronary arteries (control group).

A 2024 study in the journal Sports investigated whether oxidative stress could be managed by a combination of black chokeberry and bee pollen, a natural formulation with a balanced ratio of macro- and micronutrients rich in proteins and polyphenols. The study divided 29 combat fighters into a supplementation group that consumed 40 grams of black chokeberry and bee pollen daily in a ratio of two-to-one for four weeks and a control group that received no supplementation. Although the supplementation group exhibited no significant changes in inflammatory markers, body composition, maximum aerobic capacity, glycemic index, hemoglobin or red blood cell line, they did demonstrate a statistically significant increase in plasma antioxidant capacity. The researchers concluded that the black chokeberry and bee pollen supplement was a good source of antioxidants, proteins and carbohydrates for an athlete’s diet.

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Researchers measured the concentration of MNPs in the coronary and surrounding blood of each patient. MNPs were detected more frequently, in higher concentrations and with greater diversity, in the heart attack group (84.2 percent) compared to the CCD (40 percent) and control (31.8 percent) groups. Detection of MNPs was also associated with elevated inflammatory markers. Notably, MNPs were more frequently detected in smokers and those exposed to air pollution. The co-authors of the study noted the significant impact of lifestyle choices and exposure to pollutants on heart health.

How Healing Works Coming in October

September 2026

Global Briefs What started as a classroom assignment on the application of information theory by Assistant Professor Congyu Wu, of Binghamton University, in New York, resulted in the publication of a study in the Northeast Journal of Complex Systems. Wordle, a puzzle game featured in The New York Times, presents players with the challenge of deciphering a five-letter word within six tries. As players make guesses, the game provides feedback by identifying whether any of the guessed letters are correct and whether those letters occupy the correct positions within the hidden word. Conventional approaches solve the game about 90 percent of the time.

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In contrast, the Binghamton team used Shannon entropy, a mathematical concept that measures uncertainty, to prioritize information gathering over direct pursuit of the solution. The objective shifts from achieving a probability of being right to maximizing the expected reduction in uncertainty. The team created a program that recommended the next word most likely to yield the most useful information for solving Wordle, resulting in a reduction in the number of guesses and a success rate of 99 percent.

Nature-Inspired Membranes Pave Way for Cleaner Industry

The separation of substances is a crucial process for many manufacturing operations, including drug purification, textile dye treatment and food production, and it accounts for 40 to 50 percent of global industrial energy consumption. A study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society describes a new, natureinspired technology that could reduce energy use and enhance water reuse. Polymer membranes are recognized as a cleaner alternative to existing separation methods, but they have uneven pore sizes that can change shape during industrial use. The researchers developed crystalline membranes using polyoxometalate (POM) clusters that have a naturally occurring, exactly one nanometer wide opening that does not change shape. Billions of POM clusters are arranged into a continuous membrane using chemical chains, which functions like a high-tech sieve. According to one of the study’s authors, the new technology demonstrated 10 times better performance compared to current separation technologies, while simultaneously remaining flexible, stable and scalable. If implemented in the textile industry, it would effectively remove dye molecules while allowing the water to be recycled, thereby reducing water demand and chemical waste.

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Using Math To Solve Wordle

A study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution revealed that koala faced a near-extinction event approximately 100,000 years ago, long before humans migrated to Australia. Using genomic analysis, researchers counted the number and rate of gene mutations within four parent-offspring trios and applied this mutation rate to 457 koala genomes. This analysis enabled scientists to trace the expansion and contraction of the koala population over thousands of years. They concluded that contemporary koalas in Eastern Australia are all descended from a single population that survived the intense glacial conditions of the late Pleistocene age. The results of the research will help scientists analyze current population changes and improve conservation strategies. Koalas are listed as endangered in Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. 16

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Ancient DNA Reveals Koalas’ Path to Survival

While exploring the seabed of the South Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Argentina, scientists from the Schmidt Ocean Institute made a remarkable discovery—a rarely seen Bathelia candida coral reef covering at least .15 square miles, which included a diverse ecosystem with basket stars, crabs, octopi, fish and a giant phantom jellyfish. The researchers, who identified 28 potential new species, were surprised to see such a large amount of animals living together in deep waters where food is scarce.

ROV SuBastian/Schmidt Ocean Institute, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

The team used a remote-operated vehicle to traverse the area, which is characterized by perpetual darkness and immense pressure. Habitats like this one appear to thrive on the organic debris, fecal pellets and dead plankton that drift from the sunlit ecosystem above. This newfound, deep sea reef lies beneath one of Argentina’s productive fishing regions, which scientists believe may be sustaining the Bathelia candida. Understanding these types of habitats can help governments, businesses and communities make informed decisions about fishing practices, deep-sea mining and ocean conservation efforts. Protecting ocean biodiversity can benefit marine food webs, which ultimately support coastal economies and food supplies.

Global Action Needed To Face Deadly Heatwave Crisis

Heatwaves are the most lethal extreme weather events, causing approximately 498,000 deaths annually. Nearly half of these fatalities occur in Asia, while 36 percent are attributed to Europe. Researchers estimate that when the daily average temperature surpasses 95° F, the mortality rate increases by four deaths per 1 million people. A new report from the Climate Impact Lab predicts that by 2050, 10 times more individuals will succumb to heatrelated events in lower-income countries compared to higher-income countries. This disparity arises from the limited resources available to low-income nations to effectively confront rising temperatures. Across the Sahel, situated south of the Sahara Desert in Africa, heat-related deaths are projected to escalate by more than 60 deaths per 100,000 people, surpassing the current mortality rate attributed to malaria in Africa. Pakistan is anticipated to experience an increase of 51 deaths per 100,000 people, comparable to the country’s current mortality rate associated with strokes. The researchers recommend that countries and communities make investments in climate adaptation measures.

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Rare Deep-Sea Coral Habitat Discovered

Newly discovered coral reef along the Argentine Continental Slope

September 2026

Homeopathy

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

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

o evaluate evidence-based research for a health treatment, it is important to comprehend the research methodology, study design, included and excluded evidence, and the potential existence of bias in the study’s design, execution or funding. This understanding is essential before drawing any conclusions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of medical treatments with minimal bias and determining if an intervention surpasses placebo effects. However, individualized homeopathy poses unique methodological challenges that differ from testing a standardized pharmaceutical drug. 18

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Unlike conventional RCT drug trials, where all participants with the same diagnosis typically receive the same medication and dose and are evaluated uniformly over specified time periods, classical homeopathy is tailored to the individual patient rather than the disease diagnosis. Two patients with migraines, seasonal allergies or arthritis may receive different remedies based on their physical symptoms, emotional state, sleep patterns, food cravings, environmental sensitivities, personality traits and constitution. As a result, researchers designing and conducting homeopathy trials face the following challenges that hinder the use of testing models developed for single pharmaceutical compounds: NATampa.com

• Participants with the same diagnosis often receive different remedies, making it difficult to standardize interventions across a trial. • Homeopaths frequently adjust remedies as symptoms evolve, whereas conventional RCTs require treatments to remain fixed throughout the study. • Homeopathic care includes lengthy consultations, individualized assessments, follow-up visits and therapeutic relationships that may independently contribute to outcomes beyond the remedy itself. • Patients may seek improvements in well-being, energy, resilience or quality

of life in addition to symptom relief, yet clinical trials measure only disease-specific endpoints.

What Clinical Studies Demonstrate

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

Some Reviews Reach Divergent Conclusions

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

The Scientific Debate Extends Beyond Clinical Trials

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

A Growing Consensus for More Research Arises

Scientists on both sides of the homeopathy debate agree that future research must combine the methodological rigor of randomized trials with study designs that more accurately reflect clinical practice. This requires larger sample sizes, transparent reporting, standardized outcome measures, longer follow-up periods and independent replication across multiple

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

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Feature Story

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

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

Noticing the Body’s Messages

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“Chronic stress doesn’t just affect your thoughts. It changes your biology,” explains Daniel Amen, M.D., a double board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist and author of multiple

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national bestsellers, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Pain: Breaking the Doom Loop to Heal Chronic Physical and Emotional Pain. “When stress hormones stay elevated for too long, they increase muscle tension, fire up inflammation and contribute to chronic pain. They also disrupt sleep, impair digestion and can even reduce blood flow to the brain, making you feel anxious, exhausted or mentally foggy.” Somatic therapy relies on interoception— awareness of body sensations—to identify and release stress and trauma. These sensations originate from the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions like heart rate and digestion. Examples of negative body sensations include clenching muscles, racing pulse, stomach churning, temperature fluctuations, tightness around the chest and tingling. Steven Bradshaw, a psychologist, somatic experiencing practitioner and founder of Beyond Psychology Center, in Los Angeles, explains that the autonomic nervous system features two sub-systems that regulate safety: the sympathetic nervous system that mobilizes the body for action in dangerous situations and the parasympathetic nervous system to promote calmness and recovery. Chronic stress or trauma can get stuck in the sympathetic nervous system, causing a state of constant alertness. “The body is safety for the mind,” he remarks. “I use a mind-body approach that engages your inner healer to

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move from states of anxiety, burnout, disconnection and pain into states of goodness, flow and a deep sense of belonging in your own body.” Aimie Apigian, M.D., MS, MPH, founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated and author of The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It explains, “Somatic therapies are body-based approaches that work at the level of sensation. Sometimes that means creating a sensation of safety in the body, and sometimes it means creating the sensation of overcoming a moment of powerlessness from the past, often through movement, by finally doing the self-defense movement you were not able to do when the real event happened. The benefit is that we uncouple a sensation from the meaning of danger it got paired with. That can be an internal sensation, like the twisting of your gut, or an external one, like a particular sight or smell. The sensation stops automatically signaling danger, and the body gets to learn a new response rather than only understanding the old one.”

Mind-Body Practices

“As anyone who has ever danced knows, our feelings can be more readily accessed through movement and getting in touch with our body’s sensations, which is what somatic therapy does,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., a board-certified internist specializing in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sleep and pain, as well as the

author of several books, including Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps: Eliminating the Root Causes of Chronic Pain. While conventional talk therapy focuses on using the rational mind to release embedded stress, daily body-awareness activities can help people learn to process their tension while building emotional resilience. Amen recommends starting with basic practices, including slow diaphragmatic breathing, daily body movements, good quality sleep and time spent in nature. One of his favorite calming strategies is the butterfly hug to soothe the brain and body. “Simply place your hands on your opposite shoulders and gently stroke them downward,” he explains. Other self-somatic therapies can calm the body and mind, creating a sense of safety, which quiets racing thoughts and brightens the person’s outlook. “The aim of a daily practice is to create a sensation of internal safety or a felt sense of support in the body,” Apigian counsels. Four-Count Breath: An excellent tension reliever and mental refresh, the four-count breath can be performed anywhere at any time. Inhale fully while counting to four, hold for four, exhale for four and pause for four. Repeat up to five times. Body Scan: This exercise is all about interoception and is done by noticing sensations from head to toe while sitting or lying down comfortably. September 2026

Feature Story

Full-Body Shake: Standing up and shaking arms, legs and shoulders for 30 seconds not only loosen limbs but also relieves pent-up stress. Rolling the head in a circular motion can also release knotted tension at the base of the neck. Humming: The vibrations from humming (either a tune or single note like an “Om”) physically calms the vagus nerve, which bidirectionally carries information via electrical and chemical messages to and from the brain. A 2023 study published in the medical journal Cureus involving 23 participants revealed that humming significantly lowered stress biomarkers compared to physical activity and sleep, with positive impacts on the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce the fight-or-flight response. Mindful Movement: Moving with intention and body awareness can deepen in-the-moment joy and appreciation while also reducing anxiety, releasing tension and improving mood. Start with deep breathing, then turn attention inward for a head-to-toe body check while moving. This can be practiced while washing the dishes or participating in a fitness class. Guided Imagery: A technique that can be performed alone or with a therapist, guided imagery utilizes breathwork and meditation while envisioning an object or scene, using all of the senses. Capitalizing on the mind-body connection, multi-sensory visualization reduces stress and relaxes muscles.

Guided Therapies

Long-term, somatic therapies with the help of expert practitioners can result in creating healthier habitual emotional patterns, which contribute to repairing mood imbalance and creating sustained well-being. Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases physical tension to enhance relaxation. It focuses on the skull, 22

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Rolfing somatic movement is a touch-based technique designed to unblock or release protective posture patterns such as shrugged shoulders, bent postures and clenched jawlines from unresolved stress, anxiety and trauma. According to the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute, Rolfing resets the body’s stress response by releasing restrictions in the fascia—the connective tissue network that surrounds, separates and holds together the body’s muscles, bones, organs, blood vessels and nerve fibers. Trauma-sensitive yoga or trauma-informed yoga is designed to cultivate a compassionate awareness of what is happening in the body in the present moment and to develop the ability to take effective action based on that knowledge. It empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental environment and regulate the nervous system. A 2018 qualitative analysis published in International Journal of Stress Management identified key emotional themes that emerged from engaging in traumasensitive yoga, including gratitude, compassion, relatedness, acceptance, centeredness and empowerment. Somatic experiencing is a specialized therapy designed to retrain the nervous system by processing trauma in small, manageable sessions. Instead of focusing on the story of the trauma, the therapist guides the client to notice physical sensations, while providing a feeling of safety and well-being. This treatment approach releases vestigial negativity and creates a new, intuitive, more deeply self-aware and empowered way of sustaining emotional well-being. A 2021 literature review published in European Giuseppe Lombardo from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

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spine and craniosacral system, which includes the cerebrospinal fluid, fascia and soft tissues surrounding the central nervous system. A 2023 study published in Behavioral Sciences (Basel, Switzerland) involving male firefighter cadets found that five weekly sessions of craniosacral therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone.

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Journal of Psychotraumatology reported that somatic experiencing positively impacts symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder, notably reducing affective and somatic complaints while improving overall well-being.

Eye-Movement Therapies

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

Finding Relief and Resolution

“Somatic therapies recognize that many emotional and physical symptoms are protective responses rather than a mental disorder, weakness or failure,” says Annie Wright, a licensed psychotherapist and relational trauma specialist. Acknowledging and observing our discomfort paves the way for a healing conversation with ourselves. Sheldon C. Baker is a contributing editor to numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications. September 2026

Wise Words

Mindful Interdependence A Conversation With Jeremy David Engels by Sandra Yeyati

eremy David Engels is a liberal arts endowed professor of communication arts and sciences at Penn State University, co-founder of Yoga Lab and a mindfulness and yoga teacher. He has authored six books, including his latest two published this year: On Mindful Democracy: A Declaration of Interdependence to Mend a Fractured World and Living Namaste: A Practical Guide to Mindfulness, Yoga, and Building Community.

Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram. After a pilgrimage to India and Nepal in 2018, following the Buddha’s footsteps, he became a devoted student of mindfulness meditation as taught by Zen master and peace activist Thích Nhất Hạnh. He was certified to teach mindfulness after completing an intensive, two-year training program under Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.

environment, deeply ingrained in my personality. In high school, I first encountered the works of Martin Luther King, Gandhi, Tolstoy and Thoreau’s writings on civil disobedience and nonviolence. These books spoke to my soul and became a part of who I am. I identify as a peacemaker and relationship builder.

What subjects do you teach at Why did you aspire to be a teacher Penn State? and peace advocate as a child, and Engels holds a master’s degree (2003) and how did you uphold those ideals My Ph.D. is in rhetoric, which focuses on doctorate (2006) in rhetoric from the Uni- into adulthood? the power of language to build and break versity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has also studied Sanskrit, yoga philosophy, pranayama (breathing techniques) and chanting at the prestigious

I grew up surrounded by shouting and naturally became the peacemaker. This trait is inherent and influenced by my

worlds, bring people together and push them apart, incite wars and foster peace. My classes reflect this focus. I teach communication ethics, looking at how people can communicate better to build stronger communities and healthier relationships. I teach a big lecture class on propaganda, exploring how we are manipulated and how to resist it. And, I teach classes on how to deliberate, debate or argue without devolving into a fight.

Courtesy of Jeremy David Engels

How do you incorporate mindfulness in your college classes?

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Historical writings by the founders of the United States assumed citizens were capable of paying attention without distraction. We can’t make that assumption anymore, given our current world of distractions. Mindfulness is a wonderful practice for this. Everything I teach is better absorbed when students have mindfulness skills.

One word I like is “friends”. It’s an invitation to a certain kind of relationship. Instead of preparing for battle, perhaps we should be getting ready for a conversation.

Courtesy of Jeremy David Engels

How can we become more interconnected when our society seems to keep us distracted and divided?

What do you propose in your book, Living Namaste? We often say “namaste” to each other at the end of yoga practice, but for me, it doesn’t mark an end but rather a moment of continuation, when we take the practice from the mat into the world. Namaste means, “I bow to you. I honor you. I recognize you. I honor the dignity of you.” Over time, it has become associated with bowing or honoring the divine in someone else.

We have never been more connected to news and information in the history of the world. Social media gives us access to more people than ever before, but we feel lonelier because those are not genuine relationships. Real relationships with embodied human beings make life worth living and nourish the spirit. A key motivation behind my books is to encourage people to open up to others and recognize our deep interdependence.

What do you mean by interdependence? Interdependence is an insight, not just a concept to understand intellectually. It’s

something you have to feel in your body. Meditation is one path to this understanding, but not the only one. Many religions, science, theoretical physics and ecology all teach interdependence. A forest exemplifies it. It’s not just that we have to collaborate with people we may have written off, dislike or rarely consider. It’s that we are already working together in unseen ways. I hope my work helps to awaken people to our inherent connection. Imagine how much stronger we would be if we acknowledged this interdependence and actively devoted our attention and energy to building things together. There is such profound untapped power in the human species. Even little bits of awakening to this power will go a long way. Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings. To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/EngelsWW or scan the QR code.

The philosophy of namaste is that every time you say hello to someone, you acknowledge their dignity, worth, beauty and miraculousness, even when you disagree on fundamental things. Our relationships transform when we are willing to meet people on that common ground of shared divinity.

As a rhetorician, which words should we use more—and less—to embody the spirit of namaste? My next book will include a chapter on the mindfulness of words and noticing how often we bring violent words into everyday conversations. We talk about fighting this or fighting that, going to war, having a battle. We need to become more conscious of this because describing our relationships with others as a war increases the likelihood of those relationships becoming combative. September 2026

Modern Therapy for Classic Dental Concerns

taste, gum recession, or changes around their teeth. Without treatment, periodontal pockets can deepen and harbor harmful bacteria. Over time, the infection can damage the gum tissue and supporting bone that help keep teeth stable. Periodontal health is also an important component of overall health, making early diagnosis and appropriate treatment especially important.

by Dr. Robert Yu

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odern dentistry offers patients more choices than ever, including advanced treatments that complement a holistic approach to oral and overall health. Dr. Yu and his team offer metal-free ceramic dental implants and minimally invasive laser periodontal therapy for patients seeking alternatives to traditional treatments.

A Metal-Free Alternative to Traditional Dental Implants

Titanium dental implants have been used successfully for decades to replace missing teeth, with extensive long-term clinical data supporting their use. They remain a safe and reliable option because of their strength, durability, longevity, and ability to integrate with surrounding bone. For some patients, however, titanium may not be their preferred choice. Those with metal allergies or sensitivities, as well as patients who prefer a metal-free or more holistic approach to dentistry, may wish to consider ceramic dental implants. Ceramic implants, also known as zirconia implants, are made from zirconium oxide (ZrO₂), a high-strength ceramic known for its resistance to fracture and heat. Its strength, biocompatibility, and natural appearance make it well suited for dental applications. Dr. Yu utilizes advanced zirconia implant systems, including the CeraRoot Implant System, a recognized name in metal-free and esthetic implant dentistry, as well as Neodent implants. Research has demonstrated that zirconia implants can achieve successful osseointegration—the process by which bone grows and bonds closely to the implant surface— with clinical outcomes that make zirconia 26

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a compelling alternative to titanium for appropriately selected patients.

A Gentler Approach to Treating Gum Disease

Dr. Yu also offers the Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP™), a minimally invasive approach to treating periodontal, or gum, disease. Traditional periodontal surgery may involve incisions, sutures, and the removal or repositioning of gum tissue. LANAP™ uses precision laser technology to target diseased tissue and bacteria within periodontal pockets while helping preserve healthy surrounding tissue. During treatment, a small laser fiber is gently placed between the tooth and gum to address infection. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients may experience less discomfort and a more comfortable recovery than with traditional periodontal surgery.

Why Treating Periodontal Disease Matters

Periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. As the condition progresses, patients may notice red or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, an unpleasant NATampa.com

For patients who are candidates, LANAP™ may provide a patient-friendly, minimally invasive alternative to conventional periodontal surgery.

What Patients Can Expect

A patient’s first visit begins with a review of their dental and medical history, followed by a comprehensive periodontal examination. Dr. Yu will discuss the findings, explain treatment options, and answer questions so the patient can make an informed decision. The team will also review applicable financial information before treatment. For LANAP™ treatment, a small laser fiber is placed between the tooth and gum to target the periodontal infection. When appropriate, medications and detailed posttreatment instructions will be provided. Many patients can resume normal activities quickly following treatment. Dr. Yu and his team will provide individualized home-care instructions and typically schedule a postoperative visit approximately 7–10 days after treatment to evaluate healing and progress. Patients who have been advised to consider laser periodontal therapy or dental implants—or who would like to learn whether ceramic implants or LANAP™ may be appropriate for them—are encouraged to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Yu. Tampa Bay Dental Implants and Periodontics is located at 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Petersburg. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 727384-9122 or visit tbPerio.com. See ad page 9.

Inspiration

While we may opt for a cozy sweater, it is prudent to keep lighter attire handy for hot days that come before the frost. The end of summer can leave us wishing for a few more watercolor sunsets, and a spontaneous, off-season trip to the beach provides both fire in the sky and unoccupied shores. Fall’s slanted light invites romantic strolls through the city or to a wildflower meadow teeming with goldenrod and asters.

Sowing Seeds of Promise W by Marlaina Donato

Sarayut Tanerus from sy/CanvaPro

hether preparing children for a new school year or wondering what to do with an abundance of tomatoes from our garden, this month compels us to learn as we go, despite well-intentioned plans. Like all times of transition, September may feel a bit disorienting as we reintegrate into more structured routines, but it also presents unique opportunities: a plethora of farmers markets, harvest festivals, renaissance fairs and leisurely weekends dedicated to antiquing and visits to eclectic coffeehouses.

Most of all, this period between seasons is imbued with potential, as grasses and milkweed swell and release seeds into the wind, securing next year’s plenty. We, too, can move forward by emulating their example. As human beings in a society fixated on the mythology of youth, it is easy to be swept into believing that “going to seed” means our finest days are behind us. However, by modeling nature’s wisdom, we may not only see our personal journey through a different lens, but also feel inspired to focus on inner enlightenment and nurturing the next generation. In his iconic poem Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking, Walt Whitman refers to the ninth month as a time when the profound beauty and poignant grief of life converge, awakening the poet’s soul. Like the waning moon that gives way to a glorious sunrise, we too may embark on uncharted paths that only maturity can illuminate. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter, composer and recording artist. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

September 2026

Conscious Eating

Nutritious Nachos

main meal status. Cumin-spiced mushroom and walnut vegan nachos, chicken nachos with zesty Greek yogurt crema, sheet pan sweet potatoes and black beans, or Mediterranean-based whole-grain pita chips with smashed garbanzos and feta are only a few inspiring examples.

Yummy Ideas Everyone Will Love

Mouthwatering Upgrades

by Maya Whitman

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

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

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Traditionally, nachos are served as an appetizer, but they can easily be elevated to

Dan Whalen, a lifelong enthusiast for this popular comfort food, authored the cookbook Nachos for Dinner: Surprising Sheet Pan Meals the Whole Family Will Love. “What I love about nachos is that you can make them with leftovers. Just open your fridge and find a combo of things,” he says. It all begins with a chip base, protein source, colorful vegetables and fiber-rich toppings such as avocado, fire-roasted tomatoes, fresh salsas, homemade slaws, pickled onions, tangy citrus splashes or fresh chiles.

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

tortilla chips. You can even use dehydrated or baked plantains instead of fried.”

and mint,” muses the editor. He also favors the idea of a deconstructed Greek gyro with “thinly sliced lamb or beef, charred bell peppers, chopped herbs and a garlicky Greek yogurt drizzle to finish.” Whalen embraces Italian flavors, recreating a loaded sandwich. “I use all the typical meats, and when it comes out of the oven, I add a ‘salad’ of romaine lettuce, roasted red peppers and pepperoncini.” Drizzling punchy sauces such as sweet yet savory Mexican chamoy made from pickled apricots, plums or mangoes, or bright and spicy Middle Eastern green shatta can add an exhilarating element to any nacho dish.

Assembly Tips ro Dop vaP sy3d f rom Dopsy 3D/Can

Ethnic Inspirations

Although traditionally Tex-Mex, nachos can be most exciting with creative variation. For Rayner, the use of Indian spices can tantalize taste buds and broaden the possibilities. “Think generously spiced tandoori chicken with red onion, cilantro and a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt

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

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Courtesy of FoodFaithFitness

CHICKEN NACHOS

A cheesy classic gets a makeover with protein-packed shredded chicken.

Preheat the oven to 350° F. If using frozen corn, thaw it. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded chicken, black beans, corn and cheese over the chips. Add another layer of chips and top with the remaining chicken, black beans, corn and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeño slices, green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately with nonfat Greek yogurt and salsa on the side. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness. NATampa.com

½ lb lean ground beef 26 mini bell peppers 6 Tbsp salsa 1 cup shredded, reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, packed (4 oz) ½ cup tomato, diced ¼ cup green onion, diced 1 large avocado, diced Cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Preheat oven to 400° F. Heat a medium pan over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat into pieces, until no longer pink inside. Cut the stem off each pepper and cut in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and white flesh. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the peppers on it, cut sides up. Stir the salsa into the cooked beef and fill the peppers with the beef mixture. Sprinkle with the cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, about 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle on the tomato, green onion, avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately. Recipe courtesy of FoodFaithFitness.

Courtesy of FoodFaithFitness

1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen 10 oz baked tortilla chips (about 8 cups) 2¼ cups cooked, shredded chicken breast 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed 1¾ cups shredded, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese 1 tomato, diced 2 avocados, diced 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional) ⅓ cup green onions, sliced ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ⅓ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (for serving) Salsa (for serving)

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Satisfy nacho cravings without the chips. YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

MEXICAN MINI BELL PEPPER NACHOS

Courtesy of FoodFaithFitness

Courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca

KETO-GREEN NACHOS YIELD: 2 SERVINGS FOR THE QUESO 1 cup raw cashews ¼ cup water 1 tsp sea salt 1½ Tbsp lemon juice 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast ½ tsp turmeric 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies FOR THE NACHOS 1 large zucchini, sliced into round “chips” 2 Tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil ½ cup bell pepper (any color), chopped 8 oz cooked chicken, shredded 2-3 Tbsp fresh or jarred tomato salsa 1 cup greens of choice, chopped ½ cucumber, chopped 1 vine-ripe tomato, chopped ½ cup guacamole

To prepare the queso, place cashews in a small saucepan and cover with water. Heat to boiling. Remove from heat and cover the pot. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then drain and place in a blender. Add ¼ cup water, sea salt, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, turmeric and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Blend until smooth. Store in a jar in the refrigerator, reserving ½ cup for the nachos. To prepare and assemble the nachos, heat the avocado oil on medium heat in a medium skillet. Add the chopped bell pepper and sauté until it begins to soften. Stir in the shredded chicken and salsa. Cook and stir until heated. Place the mixture in a bowl and keep warm. Heat the zucchini rounds in the skillet until tender. Divide the zucchini between two plates and top it with the chicken, bell pepper and salsa mixture. Heat ½ cup of the queso; stir and spoon it over the “nachos”. Top with chopped greens, cucumbers, tomatoes and guacamole. Note: For variation, use ground beef or tempeh seasoned with taco seasoning; add different combinations of greens and other vegetables; or add nondairy sour cream. Recipe courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca.

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September 2026

an entire home for hours or longer. It stores electricity derived from utility power or solar panels and kicks in during a grid outage to power essential appliances such as the refrigerator, well pump, internet router, lighting, air conditioning and security systems. When paired with solar, the system can provide indefinite backup power, assuming solar is available to recharge the battery.

Green Living

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

aving backup options in place for unexpected power outages, severe weather events and grid vulnerabilities ensures that life can go on during emergencies without relying on fossil fuelbased systems. According to Environment America, approximately 5 million U.S. households are powered by solar energy and more than 295,000 Americans rely on backup battery systems that store solar energy from their rooftops for use during power outages.

Even those that are not ready to fully commit to rooftop systems are looking for more sustainable and safer options than gasoline-powered generators. An emerging market includes battery-powered home backup systems, as well as portable, solar-powered generators that can keep essentials like refrigerators, medical devices, lights and internet routers running. These smarter strategies are transforming the idea of preparedness into independence.

As storms, grid strain, rising utility costs and unpredictable outages become more common, many homeowners are rethinking what energy security means to them.

According to Marriele Mango, senior project director at the national nonprofit Clean Energy Group, a whole-home battery solution such as a Tesla Powerwall can back up

Home Integrated Systems

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

Drazen Zigic/shutterstock

Portable Solutions

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Portable power stations are different from generators in several ways. They do not use combustion engines to create power, so they are completely silent and produce zero harmful emissions. These compact, rechargeable battery units provide electricity on demand and on the go, making them ideal for both outdoor and indoor use such as camping, tailgating, off-grid living or emergency home backup during outages. Because they are standalone plug-and-play systems, rather than permanent home infrastructure, they do not need county permits, inspections or utility agreements.

Different sizes and capacities are available. Smaller portable units can power smartphones, tablets and LED lights. Mid-sized stations are best for laptops, mini refrigerators, fans, internet routers and small medical devices. Larger units, designed for home backup, RV trips or longer off-grid use, are ideal for powering TVs, small kitchen appliances such as coffeemakers and blenders, or even power tools.

Getting Started

McCain advises homeowners to understand their average electricity usage, how much backup power they actually need and whether their roof is suitable for solar before purchasing a solar and battery system. Her best tip is to obtain multiple quotes from certified installers and ask for a comprehensive, easy-to-understand estimate of energy production, expected savings, warranty coverage and how the battery will perform during an outage.

Lucy M Ryan/shutterstock

“Some permissionless plug-in batteries can be charged by smaller solar arrays, even just one or two panels, rather than an entire rooftop,” Mango points out. “Pairing a plug-in battery with even a small solar array could greatly extend the duration of backup power available.”

For renters, portable solar panels like the Renogy 200-watt foldable solar panel are an entry-level apartment backup. In addition, renters may be able to sign up for a community solar program or a community choice aggregation program that allows local governments to procure greener power from an alternative supplier on behalf of their residents. Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic health and getting back to basics.

“Here in Illinois, many residents begin by subscribing to a community solar program, which allows them to receive credits on their electric bill from a nearby solar farm without installing panels on their home,” McCain suggests. “When they’re ready, they can explore adding rooftop solar and battery storage,” she explains.

Peredniankina/AdobeStock

Mango notes, “Subscription community solar models help with reducing utility bills without the need to invest in an individual solar-plus-storage system. However, that also means there are no household resilience benefits. In other words, community solar won’t keep your lights on in the event of an outage.”

September 2026

Fit Body

Functional Yoga for Everyday Mobility Simple Poses for Real-Life Strength and Stability by Marlaina Donato

oga is often regarded as a practice reserved for the ultra-flexible, deeply spiritual or highly athletic—but at its core, it can simply be a practical tool for helping the body move and feel better. Individuals with compromised mobility can greatly benefit from intentional movements that incorporate stretching, balance and breath awareness. Rather than focusing on achieving perfect poses or extreme flexibility, functional yoga emphasizes sustainable movement patterns that improve joint health, posture, stability and body awareness. Yoga-inspired movements can reduce stiffness, support recovery, improve balance and help prevent injury—regardless of age, fitness level or experience. The goal is not performance or perfection; it is about maintaining freedom of movement and helping the body function more comfortably in daily activities such as walking, lifting, reaching, driving, cleaning and gardening.

Non-Demanding Postures

Tim Senesi, a Southern California yoga instructor who offers instructional videos for beginners on his Yoga With Tim YouTube channel, says, “Loss of mobility is one of the

primary drivers of injury and physical decline later in life. A consistent yoga practice is one of the most powerful things a person can do to stay functional and painfree at any age. It gives us a daily opportunity to counter all the sitting, screen time and repetitive patterns that compress the body over time. The body is remarkably intelligent. Yoga helps us get out of its way and meets you where you are.” Noting that non-demanding yoga postures like Tree Pose and Mountain Pose encourage ankle, hip and core stability over time, Senesi points out, “We’re lengthening tissues under load and teaching the body to own the space it’s moving into. As we age, this becomes critical.”

Images by Kris Han/CanvaPro

For beginners, he recommends less intensive types of yoga such as hatha or vinyasa slow flow. “Aim for consistency over intensity, and don’t underestimate short sessions,” he counsels. “Ten to 20 minutes done consistently every day will take you further than a long class once a week. The nervous system learns through repetition, not duration, and short, frequent practice is where real change happens.”

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Senesi recommends the following poses, adding that notable mobility improvements are possible within two to three weeks of consistent practice: Cat-Cow for spinal mobility and low-back health: On hands and knees, inhale as the

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Seated Ankle on Thigh: Sit straight up in a chair, lift one ankle and place it on the opposite thigh. Use one hand to gently press down on the knee of the crossed leg to open the hip. Then cup the crossed knee with the opposite hand and draw it across the body toward the opposite shoulder to stretch the gluteus muscle. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds while breathing normally. Head Twist: Gently and slowly turn the head over each shoulder to release neck tension, keeping eyes level. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

belly drops and chest lifts, then exhale as the spine rounds up. Let the breath lead the movement. Koldunov from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Low Lunge to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting by opening the hip flexors: Step one foot forward, lower the back knee to the floor and breathe. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per side. Reclined Supine Twist to improve rotational mobility: Lying on the back, draw one knee to the chest and guide it across the body. Hold each side at least 60 seconds. Legs Up the Wall for recovery, improved circulation and calming of the nervous system: Sit sideways as close to a wall as possible before lying down and extending the legs vertically against the wall. Rest in this position for five to 10 minutes.

Living Room Yoga

Tamantha Yanders, a yoga instructor and owner of Living Room Yoga, in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, notes that poor posture is a learned habit, suggesting that rounded shoulders, forward head positions and tight hips can improve with yoga-inspired routines. “Every time you access a joint with movement, you are lubricating the mechanism and supporting mobility,” she notes, adding that even individuals that are not very flexible can benefit from such movements. As a starting point for those with limited mobility, Yanders recommends a gentle or chair yoga class, or even a few private classes for personalized attention. “Most importantly, I support learning to work with how your body is now, not how you think it should be,” she says. Here are a few moves in her arsenal; aim for 10 to 20 repetitions per side: Side Bends: Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and place hands on the hips. Slowly bend the upper body to the right, return to the center and then bend the upper body to the left. Focus on lengthening the spine on each inhale and deepening the stretch on each exhale. September 2026

These therapies are practiced either by themselves or alongside complementary wellness modalities such as meditation, breathwork, massage and yoga, helping practitioners quiet mental overstimulation and encourage deeper states of rest and presence.

Healing Ways

Healing Harmonies

According to a 2025 article from the University of California, Los Angeles, “Research on the benefits of sound therapy is inconclusive, but growing.” There are a number of studies that seek to determine which sound frequencies are most effective, how much sound therapy is needed to gain benefits and which individuals are the best candidates for this treatment.

How Sound Therapy Supports Modern Wellness by Zak Logan

s stress, anxiety, burnout and sleep struggles rise, many people are searching for wellness approaches that feel calming, accessible and noninvasive. According to Metatech Insights, the sound therapy market is expected to grow 9.5 percent over the next decade. A number of these types of sessions are rapidly moving from niche wellness spaces into mainstream health culture, supporting relaxation, nervous system regulation, mindfulness and emotional balance through vibration, rhythm and tone.

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

The sound healing field includes vibroacoustic therapy, which employs specialized tables and chairs to gently send sound waves through the body. Sound baths are deeply immersive, meditative sessions involving Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, chimes, gongs and tuning forks, as well as sessions with percussive instruments like hand drums, rattles and melodic tongue drums.

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

Other instruments like the didgeridoo and vocal toning—using the human voice—are also effective for some in turning off the chronic flight-fight-or-freeze stress response. A modality known as binaural beats uses stereo headphones to provide two different sound frequencies, one in each ear. As these two tones are processed by the brain, they align to create a perceived third frequency, which is believed to promote relaxation, focus or sleep.

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Energy Affects Energy

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“Sound therapy is the intentional use of sound, vibration and frequency to support relaxation, self-awareness and the overall well-being of body, mind and soul,” explains sound therapist Anthony Profeta, in Vero Beach, Florida, who offers sound bath sessions to private clients and also serves as part of an integrative medical team at the Cleveland Clinic. “Physicians use sound waves therapeutically in procedures like lithotripsy to break up kidney or gallbladder stones. Many healing traditions believe that a sound bath operates on the same fundamental principle, working with

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asserting, “Longer is not necessarily better. After about 45 minutes, especially when participants are lying on a thin yoga mat on a hard floor, restlessness tends to increase and those positive effects begin to reverse. The quality of the sound experience matters more than duration,” he says. “Approach sound with curiosity rather than expectation. Sometimes the deepest benefit arrives very quietly: for a few moments, you become still enough to hear yourself again.” Zak Logan is a freelance writer dedicated to holistic healing and getting back to basics.

subtler forms of stuck energy held in the meridians, nadis [in traditional Indian medicine] and other energy centers of the body.” Power studio/shutterstock

Profeta adds that this physical contact with sound stimulates the vagus nerve—the longest nerve in the body and primary regulator of the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows respiration, decreases heart rate and increases heart rate variability, shifting the body out of stress and into genuine relaxation. Guy Yair Beider, a New York City-based sound healing practitioner, educator and founder of Sound Medicine Academy, emphasizes the zero-effort component of the modality. “In a wellness culture that has, ironically, become exhausting in its own right—with protocols, optimization and self-improvement that starts to feel like another job—sound healing offers something genuinely rare: permission to do nothing and still receive something real.”

Tips for Beginning

Based on experience, Profeta underscores, “Too great a variety of instruments can actually reduce the therapeutic effect.” We all experience sound differently, he explains. Some feel deeply relaxed, while others notice physical sensations, vivid imagery, vibrant colors, emotional release or a sense of timelessness. Beider believes that the effects of a sound bath or other types of sound therapy can be profound because they cut through our constant mental chatter. “Many of us are extremely skilled at thinking about our feelings without ever actually feeling them. Because sound healing offers nothing to analyze, that loop gets interrupted and whatever has been held beneath the surface often finds room to move,” he points out, encouraging participants to move slowly after a session, drink water and give themselves a few minutes before re-entering the pace of the day. For those new to sound therapy, Profeta recommends a low commitment, 30- to 60-minute sound bath as an introduction, September 2026

Healthy Kids

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

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

compared to peers that maintained their usual routines. These findings add to a growing body of evidence that movement and self-regulation are interconnected aspects of childhood development.

Each Child’s Movement Experience Is Unique Not all children experience movement the same way. Occupational therapist Crae Akerson, with a private practice in Stamford, Connecticut, explains that children have varying neurological “ceilings” for vestibular input. In other words, their nervous systems are able to process balance, spatial orientation and movement in unique ways before they become overwhelmed. A child with a high ceiling

constantly seeks movement, which may appear as restlessness or getting into trouble. A child with a low ceiling quickly reaches their limit and avoids movement altogether, often seeming shy or staying at the edge of recess. Neither pattern is a character flaw; both are nervous systems expressing different needs. Proprioception, the body’s sense of pressure and position, can help regulate these patterns. Akerson recommends activities like crab walks, wheelbarrow walks, jumping, cartwheels and leapfrog. As she explains, any activity that applies pressure on the body tends to calm and organize the system, supporting focus, motor planning and emotional regulation.

Screens Are Not the Enemy

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

Movement and Self-Regulation Work Together

Tampa Bay Edition

Robert Kneschke/shutterstock

A 2025 feasibility study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health tracked preschoolers in four Massachusetts childcare centers through a 10-week program focused on physical literacy, pairing short, playful lessons with active free play. Children in the intervention group showed significant improvements in gross motor skills and behavioral self-regulation NATampa.com

Robert Kneschke/shutterstock

Balance is not a skill children master once and move past. It is a practice they revisit repeatedly, in bodies that are always growing and changing. Organized sports, gymnastics or swim lessons each build their own type of coordination and confidence, but they are most effective alongside ample unscheduled time to simply move. When children's bodies feel steady, their minds tend to follow. Christina Connors is a burnout prevention specialist, keynote singer and author. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.

Encourage Purposeful Boredom

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

Recognizing the Need for More Movement

Signs such as difficulty sitting still, frequent clumsiness, poor posture, trouble winding down at bedtime and constant sensory-seeking (crashing, chewing and fidgeting) may indicate a child's need for more movement. Messinger advises, “I always encourage parents to ask, 'I wonder what my child’s body is trying to tell me?’”

Simple Ways To Build Balance at Home

Movement activities can be fun for the entire family, inviting creative play and a sense of accomplishment. They are designed to build core strength, coordination and body awareness. None of these require perfection, equipment or a therapy clinic in the basement. They simply need snippets of time throughout the day dedicated to swinging, spinning, climbing and resting. • Animal Walks: Invite kids to travel sideways like a crab, leap like a frog or waddle like a duck. • Pillow Obstacle Course: Create a safe sequence of challenges across the living room, using blankets, bed pillows and couch cushions to construct stepping stones, a crawl tunnel, a small mountain and even a jumping area with built-in crash pad for safe falling. • Balance Beam: Using a fallen log in the backyard or a line of painter’s tape on the patio, invite kids to walk a straight light and maintain their balance. • Dance Break: A five-minute dance break between homework subjects is a great way to keep kids active while helping to develop their balance and spatial skills. • Stretch and Breathe: A few stretches and deep breaths before bed can help calm the nervous system and signal the brain to wind down.

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September 2026

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

Natural Pet

Promoting Calm in Dogs and Cats

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

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

mood, focus and reactivity, indicating that some anxious behavior is a physiological issue rather than purely behavioral.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection

Noticing the Symptoms

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

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

TatyanaGl from Getty Images/CanvaPro

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

Tampa Bay Edition

NATampa.com

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

Addressing the Root Causes

Integrative veterinarian Odette Suter, author of What Your Vet Never Told You: Secrets to Supporting Peak Health for Your Animal, criticizes symptom-chasing in

Laura Turley of Pinellas Park shares this adorable photo of Pip, 8, on the left, and Bebe, 4, on the right. Pip has no tail, so she looks like a little bunny when she runs down the hall. She enjoys playing the wise sage, usually perched high atop the cabinets, keeping an eye on everything below. Bebe, on the other hand, loves exploring anything—and we mean ANYTHING— she can get her nose into. Even at 4 years old, she’s still Laura’s little terror! And one more thing these two cuties have in common: they both have six toes!

both conventional and holistic pet care. “There is too much focus on the symptoms and alleviating symptoms, and not so much about asking why, what is going on. We really need to understand the physiology, the pathophysiology and what’s happening when the animals aren’t healthy.” Looking at the whole animal and viewing anxiety and digestive upset as interconnected problems allows caregivers to ask a broader question: What is driving both? Suter also notes that fixing the gut is complex, pointing to numerous factors, including hormone balance, which often need attention alongside gut issues.

Improving the Diet

Small, consistent changes at home can support gut balance alongside veterinary care. Moving away from highly processed diets toward fresh, minimally processed food may promote healthier gut flora over time. Targeted probiotic support can help restore microbial diversity, although strain and dose vary by individual and should be discussed with a veterinarian. Digestive enzymes support the breakdown of food, and long-chain, omega-3 fatty acids sourced from fish oil or algae have been shown in a 2007 study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association to regulate inflammatory and immune responses in dogs. Introduce any new supplement gradually and consult the pet’s veterinarian, especially for animals that are already undergoing treatment.

Assembling a Health Team

For pets on anxiety medication, the gut-mind connection is not a reason to stop it, but to ask the veterinary team, “What else can support the body?” Citing Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suter states, “That’s what the Chinese call the root and branch approach. The focus is on the root, but also on the branches, which are the symptoms, just to make sure the animal is not too uncomfortable.” Medication may calm the brain’s response, but if the gut remains inflamed, caregivers may be addressing only part of the issue. Gut and mental health are interconnected, and treating them separately may explain why some anxious pets never fully settle. A whole-animal view that includes the gut offers a more comprehensive approach. Ruth Roberts, an integrative veterinarian and a holistic health coach for pets, is the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com. September 2026

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

Thursday, September 3

The 5 Seasons of TCM Series - This class explores Late Summer in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the season associated with the Earth element and a time of nourishment, balance, and transition. Participants will learn about herbs that support the Spleen and Stomach, along with seasonal foods, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices that promote digestion, grounding, and overall wellness. The class provides practical ways to align with the nurturing energy of Late Summer and support well-being through the principles of TCM.To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174

interactive, on-line training on Oct. 3-5, 1:00-6:30pm. Pre-requisite: 100 hrs. basic hypnosis training/knowledge. See listing for “October 3” for complete details. Register by Today: $425 or $395 (Member); After Today: $465 or $435 (Mbr). 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com.

Wednesday, September 16 Hypnosis-NLP Webinar “Hypno-Sedation” – 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 log-in details: UPHypnosis@yahoo. com, UPHypnosis.com.

Thursday, September 10 Thursday, September 17 Herbal Make and Take Series - This hands-on medicine-making class introduces 10 essential herbs commonly used for first aid, including support for cuts, bruises, scrapes, bleeding, and digestive upset. Participants will learn to make practical herbal remedies, such as wound washes, salves, and tinctures, to build a natural first aid kit. The class fee includes supplies for one take-home product. Participants should bring an 8-ounce jar; additional remedies may be made for $10 each. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Friday, September 11

The 5 Seasons of TCM Series - Metal Season - 6-8pm .This class explores Autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the season associated with the Metal element and a time of reflection and release. Participants will learn about herbs that support the Lung and Large Intestine, along with seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices that promote respiratory health, emotional balance, and overall wellness. The class offers practical ways to align with Autumn’s restorative energy and prepare for the winter season through the principles of TCM. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174

Anatomy of the Herbalist - Respiratory System - 6-8pm. The respiratory system is a fascinating network that orchestrates the vital exchange of gasses, ensuring our bodies receive the oxygen they need while efficiently expelling carbon dioxide. This captivating journey will unravel the complexities of its structures—like the lungs, trachea, and bronchi—and illuminate how they work together to sustain life, alongside an exploration of intriguing disorders that can disrupt respiratory function. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Saturday, September 19

Herbal Animal Care - Sept. 19 and 20. 6-8pm. This hands-on workshop introduces herbal care for animals, focusing on safe, natural approaches to support health and well-being. Participants will learn to prepare simple remedies such as infusions, salves, and powders using pet-safe herbs. The workshop covers common conditions such as skin issues, digestion, anxiety, and immune support, along with proper dosing and delivery methods. Ideal for pet owners, animal lovers, and caretakers, it offers practical tools to deepen their connection with animals through herbal medicine. No prior herbal experience is necessary—just a love for animals and a desire to care for them naturally. To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Tuesday, September 15

PLAN AHEAD Thursday, October 1

Become a “Certified Parts Therapy Facilitator”-through the Tebbetts Parts Therapy Foundation & UP Hypnosis Institute. Early registration ends today for

Nutrition for the Herbalist: A Western Perspective - 6-8pm. In this class, you’ll explore the essentials of nutrition from a Western Herbalist’s perspective. Learn about macro-

NATampa.com

Tampa Bay Edition

nutrients—proteins, fats, and carbohydrates— and discover the best food sources for each. Gain insight into how different foods can help manage specific conditions, from boosting iron levels to easing constipation. We’ll break down the roles of vitamins and minerals, and how they support overall health. Additionally, you’ll receive easy-to-understand explanations of popular dietary approaches like the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), anti-inflammatory diets, and the Low FODMAP diet, all tailored to enhance your herbal practices. To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Saturday, October 3

Parts Therapy Facilitator Certification – Oct. 3, 4 & 5, 1:00-6:30pm, interactive on-line advanced training with Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Parts Therapy Trainer for Tebbetts Parts Therapy Foundation. This client-centered approach is a MUST for anyone wanting to gain expertise in this powerful process for inner conflict resolution. Certification requires exam & practicums. Register by 9/15 for Early Discount. UPHypnosis.com. Physical Assessment for the Herbalist and Acupuncturist - Oct. 3 and 4. 6-8pm. This in-depth, two-day workshop offers herbalists and acupuncturists practical tools to enhance their clinical observation and assessment skills. Participants will learn to interpret key physical signs—such as tongue and pulse, skin tone, posture, voice, and facial features—through both Eastern and Western diagnostic lenses. The workshop includes hands-on practice, partner assessments, and case-based learning to help deepen diagnostic confidence and accuracy. Special focus will be given to connecting physical signs with internal imbalances and guiding effective herbal and acupuncture treatments. Ideal for practitioners looking to sharpen their skills and expand their clinical insight. To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/ community-classes-2025. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Friday, October 9

Healing Food Series - Perfecting the Breath - Foods to Support the Lungs, Immune, and Skin - 6-8pm. Autumn is the season of the lungs, when breath, immunity, and skin health become especially important. This class focuses on foods that moisten dryness, support respiratory function, and enhance the body’s natural defenses. We’ll cook with ingredients that support both emotional grief and physical resilience. Learn how food and breath together can nourish your inner and outer glow. You’ll also leave the session with recipes, inspiration, and lots of yummy foods to try! To register for this class visit: TraditionsHerbSchool. com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Saturday, October 10

Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification (on-line) – 1-6:00pm. Four interactive weekends (not consecutive) 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. Early registration discount before 9/22. Pay-Over-Time option available. See website for dates & details: UPHypnosis.com.

Saturday, October 17

Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification (on-line) – 1:00-6:00pm. Four interactive weekends (not consecutive) 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. Early registration discount before 9/22. PayOver-Time option available. See website for dates & details: UPHypnosis.com.

Saturday, October 24

mark your calendar Your Past Life Blueprint: The Infinite Thread Therapist and renowned A.R.E. speaker Gregg Unterberger, M.Ed., trained directly by Dr. Brian Weiss, leads an immersive workshop exploring past lives and the soul’s timeless journey, revealing how this lifetime is one chapter in a much greater story. Book, Product Sales and Door Prizes.

Sat., Oct. 24th, 9:30am -4:30pm

Unity of Tampa, 2610 Silver Lake Ave., Tampa

A.R.E. Members: $89, Non-members: $99 Seasonal Medicine Making Series - Fall Equinox - 6-8pm. The fall equinox marks the transition from summer to autumn, signifying a period of balance when day and night are nearly equal in length. It symbolizes the harvest season—a time for gratitude and reflection as communities gather crops and prepare for winter. Many cultures celebrate the equinox as a moment of abundance and change, embracing themes of letting go and readiness for the colder months ahead. Join Ruthie for a delightful celebration of the Autumn Equinox! Immerse yourself in the season with a selection of herbs, recipes, and enchanting stories, and enjoy the opportunity to create your own personalized herbal blend while participating in a group blending activity. Don’t forget to bring two 8-ounce jars for your creations! To register visit: TraditionsHerbSchool.com/2026-classes. 6340 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. 727-249-1174.

Saturday, November 14

Topless Rides & “bare” Sides at bare RV Resort - A Veterans Day weekend clothingoptional car show benefiting Tunnel to Towers. The price of admission includes BBQ and poolside live music. 21 and over only. BYOB (no glass). Vehicle check-in begins at 10 am, show runs 12 - 3 pm. Stay all day! Karaoke runs from 6 pm - 10pm. Camping is available for an additional fee. Vehicle preregistration $25 (includes entry for 2 people), and spectators $15 per person. 6901 Caliente Blvd, Land O Lakes, FL 34637 813996-6008 BareRvResort@gmail.com.

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.

Wednesday

Saturday,November 28

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.

Ongoing Events

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.

Monday

Saturday

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.

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.

Hypnosis International Certification begins on-line – Get 3 Certifications interactive ZOOM thru International Association of Counselors & Therapists, International Hypnosis Federation & UP Hypnosis Institute with Patricia V. Scott, Ph.D. Basic & advanced techniques, NLP, medical uses, regression, parts-integration, TimeLine, Smoke-FREE, weight control & more. Enroll by 10/30 for Early Discount. Pay-Over-Time available. www.UPHypnosis.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

Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@ natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.

We can choose to be positive or negative. I choose positive. —Joyce Meyer

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September 2026

Community Resource Guide

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community.

Alternative Medicine BEST MEDICINE, INC.

Dr. Carol Roberts 941-404-8030 BestMedicine.us Best Medicine is a holistic practice where chronic medical issues are addressed at their root causes—where you are heard, seen, and supported.

LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER

David Minkoff, M.D. Griselle Figueredo, M.D. Neena I Van Luven, M.D., David Bryan Johnson, M.D. Sue Morgan, APRN, Karima Redouan, APRN Rose Tyler, APRN 301 Turner St, Clearwater 727-466-6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com Specializing in Integrative Cancer Care, Lyme Disease, Mold Illness, Autoimmune Disorders, Chronic Fatigue, Neurological Disorders, Brain Fog, Fibromyalgia, Long Haul Covid, Digestive Disorders, and Cardiovascular Disease. See ad inside front cover.

SIX OAKS WELLNESS APOTHECARY

Carolyn Zinober, LMT, Esthetician, Clinical Herbalist, Aromatherapist 607 1st Ave, SW, Largo 727-501-1700 SixOaksWellness.com 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.

Angel Reader ANGELIC OUTCOMES Pamela Elkington “The Angel Girl” 813-215-7194 AngelicOutcomes.com

“Angel Readings, Mediumship, Akashic Records, Reiki & Colour Healing. Compassionate guidance to bring you peace, closure, and the clarity to move confidently forward in your life. See ad, page 27.

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.

GROSSGOLD CLINIC

Andreas Grossgold, MD Jim Hughes, MD Susan Budgis, Integrative Aesthetician Andressa Junqueira, Integrative Aesthetician 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844 TheGClinic.org 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 23. 44

Tampa Bay Edition

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 17.

GROSSGOLD CLINIC

Lisa Harris-Dalton, Bonnie Barrett 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844 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 23.

Counseling Astrology

ORTHOMOLECULAR NUTRITION & WELLNESS

PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC

ASTROLOGY FOR YOUR SOUL

Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer Dunedin 248-583-1663 AlunaMichaels.com Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. Over 35 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 35 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 15. NATampa.com

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 17.

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.

He who laughs most, learns best. —John Cleese

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.

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.

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 6.

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 23.

To Advertise in the Resource Guide, email Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com or call 727.865.9339

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

PEAKS OF HEALTH METABOLIC MEDICAL CENTER

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 10.

Lymphatic Therapy PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC

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.

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 17.

INTEGRAL URGENT CARE

GROSSGOLD CLINIC

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.

Jill Gonzalez-Cass 609 Lakeview Rd, Clearwater 727-330-3844 TheGClinic.org #MA32561, #MM43949 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 23.

CLICK ON NATampa.com September 2026

Reflexology REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES

Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater, MA0028171 Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY June Drennon, CCT 2008 JuneDrennon@ FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711 FloridaMedicalThermography.com

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 23.

RV Resort

Veterinarian

BARE RV RESORT

HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER

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.

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.

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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.

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.

LET US HELP YOUR BUSINESS— 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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