March 2026 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

203 TLC TRIBE TLC

Counseling, Readings

Meg Reilly, MS, CH

Creator of The Echoes Deck, a wisdom tool for inquiry, insight and guidance. Helping you live with compassion for yourself and others. EchoesDeck.com • MegReilly360.com 203-952-6272

Diane Nicosia, MBA, ibalanceLLC

forward toward your personal & business goals. In person or Zoom. NicosiaDiane@gmail.com ibalanceuthrive.com

203-858-5848

Beth Leas

30+ Years Experience Private Sessions, Workshops, Events In-person or by phone bethleas.com 203-856-9566

Gregg Kirk, Lyme Recovery Clinic & Detox Center

Heal from chronic illness through all-natural herbal treatments, intensive detox, cleanses & energy healing. 528 Post Rd, Darien Gregg.Kirk@gmail.com 203-858-9725

Ingrida Perri, Spirit In Training, LLC

Restore balance, boost joy, and reach your goals with coaching, meditation and group classes. ingrida@SpiritInTraining.com SpiritInTraining.com 475-291-1693

Salt Cave of Darien

555 Post Rd, Darien Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com 203-658-7667

Energy Healer, TV Host

203-820-3800

Regenerative Technology without injections

Featuring NuvoCell Biologics

NuvoCell is revolutionizing regenerative medicine by taking the same ingredients currently used in stem cell injections, stabilizing them with lipid nanoparticles, and formulating them into a topical cream with natural transdermal ingredients that act as carriers to deliver powerful regenerative relief to discs, cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. All without injections or downtime, and easily applied at home.

51% decrease in pain in just 1 month

In an 80-person pilot study utilizing a transdermal regenerative cream, the average Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score among patients diagnosed with chronic low back pain and osteoarthritis decreased by 51%.

TARGET AREAS

Neck

Back

Shoulders

Elbows

Wrists and Hands

Hips

Knees

Ankles

Feet

JoAn was recommended for knee replacement surgery after suffering from debilitating knee pain for years but was determined to find alternative ways to regain her mobility and live pain-free. After just one month of using NuvoCell, she is amazed by the results she has seen in her knee and in her quality of life.

Brian, a 3x world champion rodeo rider, struggled with back pain for years from competing. After trying various treatments, he found real relief with NuvoCell. Hear his story and why he is continuing to use NuvoCell on his back and other areas.

Brad, a retired contractor, lived with severe shoulder pain for over 50 years after a car accident left him with a separated shoulder, broken collarbone, and torn rotator cuff. A recent fall made things worse, forcing him to give up golf and basketball. Recently, his wife introduced him to NuvoCell. After applying it twice daily for two months, his pain dropped by over 90%. Today, Brad is back to playing golf, shooting hoops, and enjoying life again - pain-free.

Ask your local healthcare provider about NuvoCell or scan the QR code to find a provider in your area.

FAIRFIELD & SOUTHERN LITCHFIELD COUNTIES

Publisher Erica Mills

Editorial Erica Mills

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Erica Mills

Contributing Writers Hannah Tytus

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Marlaina Donato

Maya Whitman

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

Erica Mills

Nourish and Flourish: Finding Balance in Every Moment

This month I’ve been reflecting on what it truly means to be nourished. Not just the food we eat, but how we care for ourselves in mind, body and spirit. Life has a way of asking us to slow down and look closer, to notice the small ways we can restore ourselves. Nourishment is not always obvious, and it is not always easy to find. Sometimes it arrives in quiet moments of joy. Sometimes it is discovered in the middle of challenge, sadness or uncertainty. It may be the stillness that follows a walk in nature, the warmth of connection with someone we love, or the simple act of tending to our homes and the spaces we inhabit. When we allow ourselves to be nourished in these ways, there is a happiness that settles deep within us, a calm confidence and sense of balance that feels steady and true.

I have experienced moments when everything feels aligned and life seems to flow with clarity and purpose. Those are the times when I feel fully nourished. Yet even on my most difficult days, I ask myself what I can do today to nurture growth and flourish in my many roles as a mother, artist, wife, daughter, philanthropist and business owner. Sometimes the answer is small. A focused hour of creative work. A meaningful conversation. A commitment to move my body. A quiet moment of gratitude. These intentional choices build upon one another and shape a life that feels full and grounded.

We all have struggles. One of the greatest challenges during rough patches is choosing to rise above with positivity. That does not mean ignoring pain or pretending everything is perfect. It means setting intentions daily. It means finding a balance of time and energy so that we are not depleted but restored. It means asking ourselves honest questions. What does complete nourishment look like for you. What habits bring you closer to feeling whole. What drains you and what fills you back up.

In this issue we explore many pathways to that wholeness. We consider how mindful movement and conscious self care can renew the body. We look at how the foods we choose and the environments we create support healing and vitality. We reflect on the importance of healthy boundaries and protecting our energy. We celebrate caring for our families, our pets and our communities as acts of nourishment. Each story offers a reminder that flourishing begins with tending to ourselves in thoughtful and holistic ways.

My wish is that each of you reading this finds your own path to complete nourishment. That you pause long enough to ask what truly brings you to full life nourishment and have the courage to pursue it. Nourishment and flourishing are not destinations. They are daily practices rooted in awareness, balance and intention. When we honor them, we create lives that are resilient, vibrant and deeply fulfilling.

With love and gratitude,

Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

Spring Enrollment Opens at Herbs Love + Yoga

Herbs Love + Yoga, a state-certified herbal medicine shop and school in Sandy Hook/ Newtown, is now enrolling for its popular introductory Herbal Fundamentals Medicine Making course, beginning Saturday, May 9. This six-week course ($275) meets Saturdays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and introduces foundational medicine-making techniques while exploring the benefits of core herbs. Classes are held in person, with virtual and self-paced online options available.

Enrollment is also open for the Level 1 Herbalist Certification, an immersive 14-week, 75-hour program for beginner and intermediate learners. Students learn the physical and spiritual properties of 50 plants, master medicine-making techniques, and get up close and personal with the plants in the medicinal garden. The course meets Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m., starting May 7, 2026, with virtual participation available. Those who register by April 7 will receive a $500 early-bird discount.

Additional services include private herbal consultations, Reiki healing and certifications. Upcoming sessions include Reiki Level 1 on May 24 (12 to 5 p.m.) and Reiki Level 2 on June 28 (12 to 5 p.m.).

A free monthly Full Moon Plant Talk, Sound Bath and Reiki Circle invites the community into accessible healing and connection.

Herbs Love + Yoga features handcrafted herbal teas, tinctures, salves and CBD products, handmade in-house by clinical herbalist Alyssa Mancini. The Sandy Hook storefront and online shop are open to the public.

Location: Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd., Sandy Hook. For more information, call 917-267-8203, email Info@HerbsLoveAndYoga.com or visit HerbsLoveAndYoga.com

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Sacred Weekend to Know and Live Your Authentic Self

Soul Shamanism Training–A Weekend With Your Soul, guided by Shaman Janet StraightArrow, will be held from May 29 through 31 at the Himalayan Institute Yoga Center, in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. This threeday, two-night immersive retreat invites participants into an ancient Siberian practice designed to help them know exactly who they are and why they are here now, experiencing themselves on both grounded human and spiritual levels.

Throughout the weekend, attendees will engage in advanced awareness practices, healing, clearing and manifesting work as they release patterns that interfere with living authentically. Participants will explore the “Spirit Lake,” meet their Soul—known as the Spirit Twin—and begin aligning body and Soul in a way that fosters clarity, empowerment and unconditional self-connection.

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

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

Cost: $695. Payment is due by May 1. For more information or to register, visit BeTheMedicine.com.

Girlfriend’s Getaway Retreat Offers Women a Weekend to Reset and Reconnect

Women seeking rest, renewal and inspiration are invited to the Girlfriend’s Getaway Retreat, May 8 through 10, at The Sagamore Resort on Lake George in New York’s Adirondack Mountains.. The 2026 theme, “Seeds of Possibility & Potential,” offers a heart-centered weekend designed to help participants reconnect with themselves and envision what’s next.

The retreat features a welcome reception with entertainment, a sit-down lunch and fashion show, 18 empowering workshops, meditation and yoga sessions, and time to enjoy nature and meaningful connection. Guests may attend with friends or come solo and be welcomed into a supportive community of like-minded women.

Organizers describe the experience as an opportunity to slow down, gain clarity and nurture personal goals in a peaceful setting. The weekend is ideal for women navigating transition, seeking balance or simply craving a restorative pause. Set against a scenic lakeside backdrop, the program blends wellness, learning and connection to support participants in their next chapter.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit GirlfriendsGetawayBolton.com.

Energy of Life Healing Workshop in Farmington

Those interested in exploring the energetic foundations of health and well-being are invited to attend an afternoon workshop from 1 to 4 p.m., March 7, at the Center for Celestial Empowerment in Farmington. The interactive program will introduce spiritually guided techniques designed to help participants better understand the body’s messages and energetic patterns that may influence physical and emotional balance.

Medical intuitive Aaron Singleton and intuitive healer and pet communicator Claudia Sanchez will present an introduction to the Energy of Life (EOL) Healing Process, followed by a question-and-answer session. Sanchez will share intuitive insights focused on the body’s systems, while Singleton will discuss energetic patterns and possible timelines connected to health concerns.

Developed by Singleton in 1994, the Energy of Life process is described as a self-empowerment modality that works to activate cellular memory through spiritually guided methods. The workshop will also incorporate elements such as biomorphic geometry, sacred numbers, the Hathor Temple in Egypt and crystal healing concepts.

Doors open at 12:30 p.m., and the program begins promptly at 1 p.m. Advance registration is required; no walk-ins will be permitted. The fee is $55 per person, and free parking is available.

For registration and additional information, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com. The Center for Celestial Empowerment is located at 1533 New Britain Ave., Suite 2, Farmington. The space is on the second floor and is not handicapped accessible.

Radiant Hair,Conscious Care at Salon Aponte

At Salon Aponte in Monroe, beauty is more than skin deep—it’s a philosophy rooted in wellness, sustainability and style. Owner Nancy Aponte has built her reputation on delivering cutting-edge trends in color, cuts and styling while prioritizing non-toxic, eco-conscious products that protect both clients and stylists. Whether it’s precision highlighting, a transformative cut or a custom balayage, every service is infused with clean beauty principles.

Aponte’s dedication to safer salon practices began with a pivotal moment early in her career. “I was applying color when the ammonia fumes went right into my lungs,” she recalls. “I knew instantly it wasn’t safe.” That experience set her on a mission to transform her salon’s offerings—gradually swapping out traditional formulas for organic, cruelty-free and low-VOC products.

Today, Salon Aponte features vegan and environmentally friendly brands such as Current Hair Care, which harnesses reef-safe marine ingredients, and Neuma, a California company that plants a tree for every product sold. They also carry RPM (Relief, Protection, Moisture), a pharmaceutical-grade CBD line designed to support hair, scalp and skin wellness.

The salon recently introduced Calecim, an advanced hair growth system powered by a proprietary complex derived from ethically sourced stem cells. Clinical studies show this groundbreaking treatment reduces follicle inflammation by 30 percent, increases hair count by 14 percent, thickens shafts by 16 percent and boosts follicle density by 15 percent—with no side effects.

Aponte and her team take a whole-body approach to beauty, offering guidance on why clean products matter and how they can enhance health over time. “Our goal is to enhance natural beauty while protecting our health and the planet,” she says.

New clients receive a goody bag with rebooking incentives and gifts. Online shopping for safer hair care is available at Shop. SalonInteractive.com/store/salonaponte.

Salon Aponte hours of operation are Tuesdays from 8am-5pm; Wednesday and Thursday from 8am-8pm, Friday and Saturday from 8am-4pm.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 203-261-2838 or visit  SalonAponte.com. Location: 838 Main St., Tollgate Plaza, Monroe. See ad, page 6.

A Return to the Mountain

A Reflection on Ancestral Connection, Spiritual Belonging and Remembering

by Aggregata Zupanova

It began with a wave of emotion—sudden, full-bodied, beautiful. Tears came before I could name why. It wasn’t sadness, not exactly. It was something more sacred. A recognition. A reunion.

I’ve always longed for spiritual connection, though it wasn’t nurtured in my childhood. My parents and grandparents weren’t religious or particularly spiritual. I was taught to focus on school and to stay grounded in the tangible. But something inside me always reached for more—for something unseen yet deeply known.

During this healing experience, I was shown my great-grandmother, the family matriarch on my Japanese side. I saw her as I remembered her: wearing soft, layered cotton kimonos with simple, elegant patterns. She used to climb a steep mountain trail each morning to visit a shrine tucked high among the trees.

As a child, I desperately wanted to go with her. But my American father said no. It was too dangerous, too sacred for small

children. I accepted that then. But I never stopped longing to follow her.

And now, in this space of deep presence, I was invited—not as a child but as my present self. I ascended the path with ease, step by step, until I stood beside her at the shrine.

There were no prayers, no formal offerings. Just presence. Just her—smiling, grounded, connected. She wasn’t asking for anything. She was communing with something higher, with Source. It wasn’t performative. It was natural. It was beautiful.

She showed me what I hadn’t known: that she had guided and protected our family through the chaos of war. That she had retrieved my mother from Manchuria before the devastating forced march that followed. That she had kept our lineage alive.

And then, something even more intimate.

She shared that she had felt a strong connection to me from the moment I was born. Even after we moved back to Japan

when I was young—and I couldn’t speak the language—I would sit quietly in her lap every evening. I had forgotten that until she brought it back to me.

We never saw each other again after I turned eight. But in that moment—beyond time—I felt her presence as vividly as if she stood beside me.

She told me she had been supporting me spiritually my entire life. The quiet knowing, the invisible strength I had often felt but never fully understood, had been her. She also said she was proud, that I had found my path and was now doing the work I came here to do.

Her words landed deep in my heart. I knew they were true.

The love I felt in that moment was indescribable—immense, ancient, clear. A knowing that bypassed thought, a truth that vibrated through my entire being.

Since then, I’ve come to see moments like these as sacred touchpoints, where spirit, memory, and energy converge. When we enter into stillness together, as a group or as a field, something opens. Something greater begins to move.

I’ve come to understand that true healing and transformation arise through remembrance, through deep listening and presence. It becomes achievable only when we attune to the intelligence of Source—the force that knows every part of us, the shadow and the light, loves us completely, and reveals exactly what we need to return to our wholeness.

Shared by a participant in a collective energy healing circle. Names and personal details have been changed for privacy.

Aggregata Zupanova, CEO of Aggregata LLC, offers weekly Mass Energy Healing sessions. Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at The Granite Church in Redding and Sundays at 10 a.m. at The Farm Jibe-iT in Redding. Each session is $25. Locations: 5 N. Main St., Redding and 119 Sunset Hill Rd., Redding. To register, text the number of attendees to 845-464-4676. More information is available at AggregataEnergyHealing.com. See ad, page 7.

Homemade Natural Cleaners That Work

by Natural Awakenings staff

Spring is a time for sprucing up around the house, and toxic-free cleaners are our best allies. It’s high time to forever banish commercial products laden with bleach, ammonia and other harsh chemicals. Creating our own formulas couldn’t be easier, and best of all, they really work. Save money, reduce plastic waste and get creative with common household ingredients like baking soda, white vinegar and a few sweet-smelling essential oils.

Here are the easiest recipes. Store in clearly labeled glass jars for powders and reusable spray bottles for liquids, away from children and pets. Mix or shake well before using with soft rags or microfiber cloths.

All-purpose spray cleaner combines one part vinegar, one part warm water and 10 drops essential oil of choice. Lavender and peppermint are antimicrobial and deodorizing, while lemon and orange essential oils cut grease and air freshen.

Glass cleaner combines one cup distilled water with one cup rubbing alcohol. For

extra grease cutting, one-half teaspoon liquid castile soap may be added.

Bathroom cleaning paste combines threequarters cup baking soda, two to three tablespoons hydrogen peroxide and two to three tablespoons liquid castile soap. Apply with a rag using circular motions, wait 10 minutes before wiping, then rinse. This works on bathtubs, showers and sinks.

Mold and mildew spray is a one-ingredient solution: distilled white vinegar. Spray onto moldy areas and let it sit for an hour before scrubbing with the bathroom cleaning paste. White vinegar effectively treats more than 80 percent of mold species, including black mold.

Grout cleaner combines baking soda and a small amount of warm water to form a thick paste. Slather onto the grout line, then spray white vinegar on top, allowing the mixture to bubble and sit for about 15 minutes. Scrub with a stiff grout brush or toothbrush and rinse with warm water. Dry the area with a clean cloth.

Oven and glass stovetop cleaner combines

three-quarters cup baking soda with a few drops of water or liquid castile soap to form a paste. Initially wipe surfaces with a damp rag or sponge, then spread the paste in an even layer and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. Gently scrub baked-on areas with a sponge or soft-bristled brush, then wipe with a clean, damp rag.

Stainless steel cleaner combines white vinegar with a few drops of olive oil. Shake well before lightly misting the appliance. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe with the grain of the steel.

Wood furniture polish combines one-half cup olive oil, one-quarter cup white vinegar, 10 drops lemon essential oil and one cup water. Lightly spray onto a soft cloth and wipe down wood surfaces.

Spot cleaner for carpets combines two cups white vinegar with two cups water, plus two tablespoons baking soda gradually stirred in to dissolve. Spray without over-saturating the carpet and use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to gently scrub the carpet fibers clean. Blot the treated area dry.

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Using Food To Heal

A Look at Anti-Inflammatory and Elimination Diets

by Hannah Tytus

There is a growing movement to use food as a primary means for preventing and managing disease. Before reaching for pharmaceuticals or even supplements, people are seeking healing on the plate. According to a 2024 academic article in the Nature Partner Journal Science of Food, scientific advances in our understanding of nutrition at the cellular level are driving a food-first strategy. Key micronutrients have been identified to reduce inflammation and promote cellular regeneration and repair, prompting practitioners to champion dietary modifications that soothe chronic symptoms, repair gut integrity, rewire immune signaling and reach metabolic balance.

“Healing the gut is the backbone of my practice,” says Lorraine Maita, M.D., a triple board-certified internal, integrative and functional medicine specialist who helps patients harmonize their hormones and detoxify their bodies through her Restore & Rejuvenate program at The Feel Good Institute. Whether a patient needs to lose weight, have more energy, regain their focus or sleep better, Maita’s approach centers on eliminating foods that trigger inflammation and replacing them with deeply nourishing ingredients.

Dianne Moore, a functional nutrition coach, restorative health practitioner and founder of MooreBetterFood, asks her clients to keep a food and symptom journal to diagnose the underlying causes of their health challenges. Writing down a detailed description of each meal, as well as the time and how the body responds 30 minutes after eating—including energy levels and any digestion issues or discomfort— helps make patterns more visible without requiring testing.

Anti-Inflammatory Food Protocols

Inflammation is the body’s first line of defense against dangerous pathogens, damaged cells and irritants, as well as a crucial biological process for healing and recovery from injuries and infections. However, problems arise when the immune system remains activated all the time. Chronic inflammation is linked to many health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders and autoimmune conditions, according to a 2024 article in Cells

A 2023 article published by the medical education platform StatPearls notes that an anti-inflammatory diet is one of many interventions that help calm an overactive immune response. Two of the most popular such diets are the Mediterranean Diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Diet, which prioritize fruits and vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats and proteins sourced from legumes and lean meats. Inflammatory foods including highly processed products, high-fat dairy, refined grains and sugars, artificial sweeteners and industrial seed oils are significantly reduced or eliminated.

Staying well-hydrated and pairing carbohydrates with protein, fiber or fat help keep blood sugar steady—further reducing inflammatory stress, according to the Joslin Diabetes Center. An anti-inflammatory food protocol is best viewed as a long-term foundation, rather than a strict diet.

Elimination Diets

According to Maita, “People that have experienced trauma, infections or general inflammation may become more sensitive to food. Some individuals may even be sensitive to healthy whole foods. Identifying which foods are contributing to common symptoms can be challenging. This is where elimination diets can be helpful.”

An elimination diet is a short-term process that removes specific foods from the diet and then slowly adds them back in while observing changes in symptoms, according to a 2024 educational article published by StatPearls. These diets are commonly used to identify food intolerances or sensitivities and to manage conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, allergic skin reactions and other inflammatory or digestive issues.

Most elimination diets focus on common food allergens including wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, animal milk, eggs, soy, fish and shellfish.

“A functional medicine elimination diet may also include eliminating corn, all dairy and any artificial ingredients,” says Maita. The process typically begins with an elimination phase, during which these foods are fully removed. This can range from a few days to several weeks in more structured protocols. Even short eliminations can help people notice connections between what they eat and how they feel.

After the elimination period, foods are reintroduced one at a time. If symptoms return after adding a specific food back in, it may be contributing to the problem. Maita notes that the goal is not long-term restriction, but awareness—identifying which foods support health and which may need to be limited or avoided.

Elimination diets work best when they are time-limited and intentional. Staying on restrictive diets too long can lead to nutrient gaps or stress around food, which is why reintroduction and practitioner guidance are important. If symptoms do not improve, the information gained can help determine whether further testing is needed. Used thoughtfully, elimination diets are a practical and accessible tool within a food-first framework.

When To Seek Practitioner Support

According to Maita, an elimination diet can be both therapeutic and diagnostic. The response—or lack thereof—to dietary changes can help clarify whether food is playing a meaningful role in a person’s symptoms, while also informing next steps in care. Additional testing may be necessary to provide more individualized guidance. Maita points out that the interpretation of results is most

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effective when ordered and reviewed by a trained practitioner that can analyze the data within the context of the patient’s symptom history, diet, lifestyle and stress patterns.

Some of her patients experience a Herxheimer reaction involving a flu-like worsening of symptoms, constipation or extreme cravings. These changes are most often temporary and do not pose a serious risk to health, and she has strategies to prevent or eliminate these reactions. It is helpful to have a roadmap, along with tips for getting through the discomfort. When detox reactions hit, Maita recommends that patients slow down, rest, hydrate with lemon water and spend some time at the sauna or in an Epsom salt bath.

Healing Our Relationship to Food

A key goal of food-first approaches is maintaining a healthy relationship with food. Practitioners encourage their patients to celebrate the foods they can add to their diet, rather than mourn what has been taken away. This includes the rainbow of delicious

produce options they can have on every plate, a rotating selection of proteins and even new ingredients such as venison or bison.

For some patients, elimination diets can open doors to unexpected favorite foods. Moore shares how one patient that discovered she had a sensitivity to salmon, which she loved, found cod—a new fish to enjoy. These experiences help broaden perspectives and reduce feelings of deprivation. Keeping food enjoyable means finding creative alternatives. For example, someone that cannot tolerate garlic bulbs may be able to infuse garlic into oil to capture flavor and nutrients without any associated symptoms.

Food is at the center of all sorts of celebrations and rituals, whether shared with friends and family, or enjoyed alone as an act of selfcare. Moore coaches clients that are following an elimination diet to plan ahead for social settings. This may include reviewing a menu online for an upcoming restaurant outing; bringing a diet-compliant dish to a potluck dinner to be enjoyed and shared with others;

or politely letting a party host know of any dietary restrictions well in advance of the event. “Most people want to cheer you on if you’re doing something for your health,” she says.

Maita also cautions against setting unrealistic goals. “We are looking for progress, not perfection. You will never reach perfection—relax. Experiment with it,” she says, adding that she has seen patients succumb to orthorexia, a disordered obsession with healthy eating. She also notes that eating the same foods every day can induce or worsen sensitivities. Joyful variety, supportive relationships and flexibility are essential parts of healing.

Food-first approaches are ultimately about discovering what helps the body thrive. Elimination diets and anti-inflammatory protocols offer powerful tools for uncovering sensitivities, reducing inflammation and restoring balance. By focusing on small, sustainable changes, individuals can build a foundation for long-term wellness, vitality and resilience.

Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring our understanding of health.

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No Isn’t Rejection: It’s Nourishment

Nurture Yourself One Honest No at a Time

by Ingrida Perri

When I think about nurturing myself, I usually imagine adding something like better habits, more movement or self-care. But one of the most powerful ways I’ve learned to nurture myself is also one of the hardest: saying no.

Even now, I sometimes say yes before I’ve really checked in. Before I take a breath and ask myself: does this spark energy or joy? Or am I saying yes out of habit, obligation, fear of disappointing, or wanting to be liked?

My body usually speaks first. Sometimes it offers a soft, “this feels right.” Other times it signals firmly, “not right now” or “nope, not for me.” Often it lingers somewhere in between—uncertain, wavery, tugging this way and that. My shoulders tighten. My breath gets a little shallower. There’s a sinking in my gut, a quiet reminder not to push past my own signals. Learning to trust these whispers has become one of the kindest forms of self-care I know.

By Johannes on AdobeStock.com

Boundaries are not about shutting people out. They’re about protecting my energy so I can show up fully present and engaged. Science backs this up. People who assert their needs experience less stress, lower burnout and better emotional well-being. Saying no isn’t just about my calendar. It’s about my mind and my nervous system.

Here’s what I’ve noticed: when I take on too much, resentment creeps in. Not loud anger—just fatigue, nagging irritation, that stretched-too-thin feeling. It’s easy to aim that frustration outward—at the person, the request, or the situation, especially when others don’t step up. Most of the time, though, it isn’t really about anyone else. It’s my own response to ignoring myself. Realizing that is uncomfortable—and freeing.

I also remind myself that when someone else tells me no, I don’t think less of them. I usually understand. I respect their honesty. So why do I assume the opposite will be true when it’s me?

Saying no can be simple, honest, even playful. Some of my go-to lines are:

• “Thanks for thinking of me—I can’t this time.”

• “I’d love to help, but I don’t have the band width right now.”

• “I really want to enjoy our time, so this week won’t work.”

• “I can’t make the event, but let’s find an other time.”

• “Thanks—my calendar just laughed at me, so I’ll have to pass.”

Every time I honor my limits, I make room for what really matters. I check in with myself and clear space for what lights me up. Recently, I said no to something I love but felt too tired to do. It was uncomfortable— but afterward, I felt lighter, more present and fully available for what mattered most in that moment.

Saying no consciously creates space in my calendar, my body and my heart—for rest, clarity, creativity and deeper connection. I have learned that clear boundaries are often met with more respect than constant overgiving. But the greatest shift happens inside, as quiet trust grows each time, I honor my own signals.

I’m still practicing, still catching myself, still learning to trust my inner signals. And every time I choose alignment over obligation, I send my body and heart a clear message: I matter too. One honest no at a time.

Ingrida Perri, MA, JD, is a Duke Integrative Medicine-trained health coach and an integrative life coach, meditation teacher and laughter yoga leader. She empowers clients to make meaningful, lasting change through heart-centered presence and practical problem-solving while providing tools to feel balanced, clear and well every day. For more information on 1:1 and group coaching, classes and workshops, visit SpiritInTraining.com, call/text 475-291-1693 or email Ingrida@ SpiritInTraining.com. See ad, page 2.

Insights From The Gut Biome Lab

A Conversation With Ravinder Nagpal

by Sandra Yeyati

Ravinder Nagpal, MSc, Ph.D., an associate professor specializing in nutrition and the microbiome at Florida State University (FSU), helms The Gut Biome Lab, a research team that studies the role of nutrition in maintaining gut health and preventing or treating chronic disease. He serves on the editorial teams of several peer-reviewed medical journals, most notably as editor-in-chief of Gut Microbiome and Health and associate editor of Frontiers in Microbiomes and Frontiers in Nutrition.

Nagpal’s research is supported by numerous governmental agencies, commodity boards and industry associations, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Florida Department of Health, Infectious Diseases Society of America, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Institutes of Health, The Institute for Successful Longevity at FSU, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, The Almond Board of California and The Peanut Institute.

How do you define the gut microbiome, and why is it important?

our entire life span. We are born with a very simple microbiome. As we age, environmental exposures come into play. By the time we are 2 or 3 years of age, our microbiome starts becoming very rich, with over 1,000 species of bacteria and fungi that impact our overall health by helping us to digest food, maintain good metabolism and regulate our intercellular immune system.

How can we determine if we have a healthy microbiome?

The microbiome is very personalized. It varies from person to person, and within a person, the microbiome varies during the life span, depending on the diet, lifestyle habits, travel, medications, etc. There is no gold standard, universal definition of a healthy microbiome. It is the one you carry when you are feeling healthy and fine. However, there are a few specific bacterial species that are known to be beneficial for everyone and some species that are known to be pathogenic for most or all.

The gut microbiome is a very dense, complex community of various bacteria, fungi and protozoa that live in our gut during

When we do our research studies, we collect fecal samples from each subject and scan their entire microbial community. We identify the ratio of beneficial bacteria over opportunistic or pathogenic bacteria, noting any toxigenic or

potentially pathogenic bacteria that are out of proportion, which would indicate a bad or unhealthy, misbalanced microbiome known as dysbiosis.

How can we maintain a healthy gut microbiome?

Many factors contribute to a good microbiome, including exercise, good sleep habits and a stress-free routine, but the most important factor is the food that we eat. We have thousands of species of bacteria, and each of those species has their own food preferences. The majority of the diet should be plant-based, including a diversity of fruits, vegetables, salads, minimally processed grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Avoid overeating and stay away from ultra-processed foods. Prioritize a nutrient-rich rather than calorie-rich diet. Make sure to consume an organic diet that is free from chemicals, additives, emulsifiers, pesticides and antibiotics. Variety is super important. Eat different foods from all the food groups daily. Different types of fiber support different types of beneficial bacteria, so we need to make sure that our diet is diverse.

Do you recommend taking probiotic or prebiotic supplements?

As long as someone is healthy, they don’t really need probiotic supplements. You already carry your own beneficial probiotics; just nurture them by eating a healthy diet. Probiotics in the U.S. are sold as food supplements, which means that they are not required to be clinically tested and validated, so we may not know if they are actually going to be really effective. Prebiotics, defined as food components like fiber and resistant starches, as well as fermented foods and vegetables, are more effective than commercial probiotic supplements because they feed the indigenous population of beneficial and commensal [neither harmful nor beneficial] bacteria.

What discoveries have you recently made in The Gut Biome Lab?

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Professional Intuitive Energy Work

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Psychic-Medium

For decades, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias were believed to originate exclusively within the brain, driven by the impaired functioning of neurons and proteins, as well as plaque buildup. However, our recent research has revealed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment who are at risk for Alzheimer’s harbor a distinct gut microbiome compared to healthy individuals, indicating that gut health could be both a marker and a modifiable risk factor in disease progression. This discovery may facilitate novel avenues for prevention and management, including dietary and lifestyle changes to restore microbiome homeostasis to support neurocognitive health.

Our research has also discovered that obesity can heighten a predisposition to cognitive decline via alterations in gut-microbiome-brain signaling, a mechanism that has been largely under-explored in aging populations. This highlights the gut-muscle-brain axis as a modifiable target to enhance cognitive health in aging populations.

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/NagpalWW or scan the QR code.

Elizabeth Raver, PhD Psychic-medium, private one-on-one and group readings. Classes, workshops. Zoom, phone, in person. Monthly free online International discussion group. Member of International Association for Near Death Studies, Inc. and Afterlife Research Education Discussion DrLizMedium.com • RavElizabeth516@gmail.com 203-400-9212

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Nurturing Vibrant Pet Health Naturally

Six Holistic Strategies from Wild Roots Animal Wellness

Holistic pet care is rapidly gaining traction among pet parents seeking to support their animal companions’ well-being by addressing root causes rather than merely managing symptoms. Wild Roots Animal Wellness, a holistic animal health coaching practice based in Fairfield County, champions a whole-pet approach—combining species-appropriate nutrition, attentive behavioral observation, lifestyle guidance and individualized support to help pets thrive physically, emotionally and energetically.

Although every animal is unique, several guiding principles form the foundation of holistic pet care. By recognizing a pet’s

natural needs and communication signals, caregivers can foster deeper understanding and create conditions that support longterm vitality. The following strategies reflect this comprehensive philosophy.

1Look at the Whole Pet, Not Just the Symptoms

Animals communicate through behavior, body language and subtle shifts in daily habits. A holistic perspective considers the full context of a pet’s life—including diet, environment, emotional state and medical history—to identify underlying contributors to imbalance. Rather than viewing isolated symptoms such as itching, digestive upset or

anxiety independently, holistic practitioners look for patterns that reveal broader physiological or environmental stressors.

For example, excessive licking or scratching may stem from food sensitivities or gut imbalance rather than a skin condition alone. Behavioral concerns such as frequent accidents or destructive chewing can signal emotional stress or unmet nutritional needs. Observing the whole animal allows care decisions to align more closely with individual physiology and temperament.

2Prioritize SpeciesAppropriate Nutrition

Nutrition forms the cornerstone of holistic health. Dogs and cats have distinct biological requirements developed over thousands of years. Cats are obligate carnivores, while dogs are omnivores with a strong preference for meat-based nutrition. Providing appropriate ratios of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals can significantly influence energy levels, digestion, coat condition and immune resilience.

Heavily processed foods high in fillers and carbohydrates may contribute to inflammation and digestive strain. Diets that more closely reflect natural dietary biology— whether raw feeding, carefully selected commercial formulas or a thoughtfully designed hybrid approach—can support improved gut health and overall vitality.

When digestive function is optimized, many pets experience measurable improvements

3Honor Individual Differences

Just as humans differ in constitution and health needs, animals require individualized care. A holistic framework recognizes that one diet or wellness protocol does not suit every pet. Age, breed, activity level, medical history and personality all influence optimal care strategies.

Personalized nutrition consultations and wellness evaluations can help create plans tailored to a pet’s specific profile. This individualized approach is particularly valuable when addressing chronic challenges such as allergies, skin sensitivities, anxiety or autoimmune concerns. Treating each animal as a distinct individual supports more sustainable, long-term results.

4Decode Pet Communication

Understanding animal communication is central to holistic pet wellness. Cats and dogs convey information through tail carriage, vocalization patterns, posture, ear positioning, facial tension and energy levels. Attentive observation of these signals provides insight into comfort, fear, overstimulation or stress.

Recognizing relaxed versus tense body language allows caregivers to adjust environmental factors, routines or interactions accordingly. When pets feel understood and supported, trust deepens and behavioral harmony often improves.

5Embrace Holistic Wellness Tools

Natural pet care extends beyond diet. Many holistic approaches incorporate supportive modalities designed to enhance resilience and balance, including:

• Digestive supports to strengthen gut flora

• Omega-rich oils for skin and coat health

• Gentle herbal or plant-based supplements for calming support

• Regular movement and enrichment activities

• Environmental adjustments that enhance safety and comfort

When thoughtfully applied, these strategies can reduce reliance on medications while supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

6Seek Community and Continuous Learning

Holistic pet wellness is an evolving journey. Workshops, educational gatherings and

community events provide opportunities for continued learning and connection among like-minded pet parents. Shared knowledge and professional guidance can help caregivers make informed decisions rooted in both observation and education.

Supporting Whole-Pet Wellness Naturally

A holistic, whole-pet perspective provides animals with the opportunity to flourish physically, emotionally and energetically. Whether addressing digestive concerns, behavioral changes, chronic sensitivities or general vitality, individualized natural strategies can create meaningful improvements in overall quality of life.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 203-448-9390, email Allegra@WildRootsAnimal.net, or visit WildRootsAnimal.net.

Mention Natural Awakenings to receive $25 off the first consultation and personalized plan of action. See ad, page 7. By

Stress-Free Fitness

The Role of the Nervous System in Exercise Recovery

by Marlaina Donato

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, stabilize blood sugar levels, improve body composition and combat depression, but, during times of stress, it can become counterproductive. Chronic stress triggers a steady release of hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, keeping the sympathetic nervous system in overdrive.

Hitting the gym too hard or too often when we have too much on our plate disrupts the vagus nerve’s ability to shift gears and bring the body back into balance. This is when we might notice fat storage (particularly around the belly), an increased appetite, fatigue, systemic inflammation and lack of muscle gain.

“If you are working out hard and constantly stressed, you are basically fighting against yourself,” says Stephanie Mansour, a Today Show fitness contributor who also provides daily motivation on her fitness app, Step It Up With Steph. “During this time, your cortisol levels spike and make it harder for your body to use insulin properly, which slows down fat burning and even breaks down the muscle that you have been working so hard to gain.”

Feeling wired but tired, experiencing mood swings and getting sick more often are signs that it might be time to dial things back and focus more on recovery. To initiate a parasympathetic response—the other branch of the autonomic nervous system that helps the body reset—it might be a good time to

consider alternative forms of exercise and a diet rich in nourishing foods. Stanford Lifestyle Medicine recommends moderate cardio exercises such as walking, swimming, cycling or light jogging, along with restorative practices like yoga, breathwork, tai chi and Pilates.

Move To Reset and Rest To Recharge

Cindy Brauer, the founder of Mojo Fitness, in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, advocates for a combination of rhythmic flow exercises, followed by intentional cooldowns to activate the parasympathetic system and strengthen vagal integrity.

“Different movement styles speak different languages to the nervous system,” she explains. “Our HIIT-based dance fitness techniques provide a powerful sympathetic challenge. We use creative, ever-changing movement patterns that intentionally elevate heart rate, engage the lungs and stimulate the brain, helping trigger the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a crucial protein that supports brain health, learning and adaptability.”

At the end of each class, Brauer leads participants through a series of extensive stretches, balance exercises and breathing techniques. She emphasizes the importance of consistent routines that strike a balance between predictability and flexibility, enabling the nervous system to feel secure while preserving its capacity for movement.

For nervous system regulation, Mansour recommends a combination of HIIT and yoga or stretching, acknowledging that individual needs may vary at different times. “When balanced, both types of modalities can sustain energy levels throughout the day and facilitate relaxation and unwinding at

night, creating a workout system that works best for you.”

In addition to switching up routines, complementary strategies include saunas, cold plunges for vagal tone enhancement and somatic therapies such as myofascial release. Resting without external stimuli like smartphone scrolling can have far-reaching benefits, too. “I encourage my clients to prioritize sleep,” says Mansour. She recommends aiming for seven to nine hours of slumber per night. To enhance sleep quality and counteract stress, she suggests incorporating a few minutes of meditation, outdoor walks or five minutes of stretching every day.

Food Factors

A 2024 study published in the journal Nutrients underscores the pivotal role of nutrition in post-exercise recovery. It emphasizes the significance of consuming adequate nutrients to replenish glycogen stores, repair muscle tissue, lower inflammation and bolster the immune system. Supporting a healthy microbiome by eating prebiotic-rich foods like oats, apples and flaxseeds can enhance nutrient absorption and aid recovery, especially after exercise. Anti-inflammatory foods rich in healthy fats, including walnuts, eggs, omega-3-rich fish and avocados, will help balance the nervous system.

Brauer highlights the importance of consuming healthy carbs, which support the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter and hormone that regulates happiness and calmness. Her other recommendations include staying hydrated, getting enough minerals (particularly magnesium and potassium) and practicing mindfulness. “Slowing down at mealtime, chewing fully and eating without constant distractions sends a powerful signal to the vagus nerve that it’s safe to rest and digest,” she adds.

Mansour’s go-to recovery foods include salmon and colorful fruits and veggies that are naturally packed with vitamins and antioxidants. She also reminds us to maintain stable blood sugar levels by eating protein every few hours to prevent sugar cravings or other uncomfortable symptoms of low or high sugar such as fatigue, dizziness, irritability, headaches and weakness.

Marlaina Donato is an author, artist and musician. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

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Fiber’s Fun Side

Delicious Ways To Boost Daily Intake

by Maya Whitman

Studies consistently show that the vast majority of Americans fail to consume enough fiber in their diet, even though it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and colorectal cancer. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that adults aim for 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories consumed, which is about 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men daily. Adequate fiber is indispensable for lowering inflammation and maintaining digestive, cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Many of us believe that fiber-rich foods are unappetizing and difficult to digest, when in fact, they can be versatile and enjoyable components of a well-rounded diet. “Across cultures, some of the most comforting and flavorful dishes are naturally high in fiber. These meals rely on legumes, vegetables and whole foods as their foundation, and have done so long before fiber became a nutrition buzzword,” says Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Nichole Dandrea-Russert, author of The Fiber Effect and co-author of Powered by Plants: Nutrient-Loaded 30-Minute Meals to Help You Thrive.

Soluble and Insoluble Fibers

According to the Mayo Clinic, soluble fiber—which dissolves in water and forms a gel-like material in the stomach—slows digestion and increases feelings of fullness, helping us to control our weight and lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It is found in beans, oats, apples, bananas, avocados, citrus fruits and carrots. Insoluble fiber, which does not dissolve in water, helps to move material through the digestive system and adds bulk to stool, helping to prevent constipation and promote regularity. It is found in nuts, beans and vegetables such as cauliflower and potatoes. Most plants have a combination of soluble and insoluble fiber.

Boosting Our Daily Intake

Given all the wonderful fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, nuts, beans and legumes available, adding fiber is easy, as well as an opportunity to play with flavors, colors and textures. For crunch, color and a refreshing taste, nothing beats a good slaw with shredded purple cabbage, carrots, green apples, turnip greens and spicy radishes. Sushi roll-ups served with wild rice, avocado and baked sweet potato is a filling, complete meal. To satisfy our sweet tooth, fiber-rich Medjool dates filled with raw pistachios, creamy nut and seed butters or tangy goat cheese hit the spot.

“Fiber comes in a few different forms, and most plant foods contain a mix of them, so you don’t need to overthink it,” explains Sandra Turnbull, a registered dietician and owner of Midlife Nutrition and Coaching, in British Columbia, Canada. “You don’t need to track fiber types. Eating a variety of plant foods naturally gives you the mix your body needs.”

Turnbull points out the variety of textures associated with fiber, including the crunch of vegetables, the creaminess of beans and the chewiness of whole grains. For fiber-rich snacking, her favorite options include popcorn, edamame pods and yogurt with berries. She also highlights the significance of prebiotic fiber, a dietary ally that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria and is found in onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, bananas, oats and beans.

Prapol Srinakara/Shutterstock

Dandrea-Russert recommends adding at least three plant-based colors into each meal, such as blueberries, banana and chia seeds into oatmeal; arugula, tomato and red onion in a sandwich; or sprouts, greens and shredded carrots into a wrap. To start the day, her “avocado toast salad” consists of mashed avocado on whole-grain sourdough, topped with arugula, matchstick radish, red onion, shaved ginger, fresh herbs, sprouts and microgreens, all drizzled with a squeeze of lemon. She favors a handful of nuts or toasted chickpeas as a healthier alternative to chips.

With fruits, Dandrea-Russert stresses the importance of consuming the skins, particularly those of organic apples, kiwis and grapes, as

they offer the benefits of insoluble fiber. In general, she prioritizes whole-food, minimally processed sources of fiber-rich foods, noting, “We’re not just consuming fiber in isolation; we’re benefiting from the full spectrum of compounds that work synergistically in the body.”

General Tips

According to Dandrea-Russert, mild bloating or gas is a normal initial response to consuming fiber and often indicates that beneficial gut bacteria are waking up and thriving. With consistency and patience, digestion typically becomes more comfortable and resilient.

Turnbull advocates for a gradual approach to increasing fiber intake, emphasizing the importance of chewing foods thoroughly and introducing one higher-fiber food at a time to allow the gut to adjust. “Fiber and fluids work best as a team,” she adds. “When people increase fiber without drinking enough, they’re more likely to run into trouble with bloating or constipation. Sip water regularly throughout the day, rather than chugging it all at once.” Incorporating foods with natural fluid content like soups, stews, smoothies or juicy fruits can also help.

Soaking dried beans for 12 to 24 hours and discarding the soaking water before cooking in fresh water can enhance digestibility. Adding a piece of kombu seaweed or spices like ginger, cumin, fennel, coriander seeds or bay leaf to the beans’ cooking water can help reduce gas-producing compounds while subtly enhancing the flavor. Drinking peppermint tea or chewing fresh rosemary leaves after meals can relax digestive muscles and alleviate discomfort.

Adding fiber to our diet is an opportunity to discover new culinary experiences and marvel at the amazing variety of nourishing options. Dandrea-Russert says, “Pausing to feel gratitude for the thousands of edible plants available to us with fiber as their foundation can shift how we relate to food.”

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

NOURISH AND THRIVE IMMUNE SUPPORT SOUP

Loaded with fiber, protein, iron, selenium and magnesium, this soup harnesses the natural power of plants in a deliciously wholesome way to help support the immune system through seasonal transitions. Fiber supports the health of the gut, where 70 to 80 percent of immune cells live; selenium has been shown to lower the risk of infections; and phytonutrient-rich veggies and spices fight inflammation.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

¾ cup thinly sliced leeks (white and light green parts only)

2 tsp mustard seeds

2 cloves garlic, minced 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced

1 small head cauliflower, leaves removed, cut into 1-inch florets

2 tsp ground turmeric

1 Tbsp ground cumin

½ tsp salt (optional)

Ground black pepper to taste (optional)

3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 cup canned light coconut milk

1½ cups home-cooked or 1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained

2 cups destemmed and chopped kale

¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)

1-2 dashes cayenne pepper (optional)

1-2 dashes smoked paprika (optional)

In a large stockpot over high heat, add the leeks and mustard seeds. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes, until the leeks are translucent.

Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, ginger, cauliflower, turmeric, cumin, salt and pepper. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spices are lightly toasted. Deglaze the pan with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or vegetable broth as needed.

Add the 3 cups of vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 10 minutes.

Stir in the coconut milk, chickpeas and kale. Heat through until the kale is slightly wilted.

Add more salt and pepper to taste.

Divide among four bowls and serve with the cilantro, cayenne pepper and smoked paprika.

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or kept in the freezer for up to one month.

Substitutions: In place of leek, use onion or shallot. Use white beans or another legume of choice instead of chickpeas. Use a favorite leafy green in place of kale, such as spinach, mustard greens or bok choy. Instead of cilantro, use parsley or chives.

Recipe from the cookbook Powered by Plants: Nutrient-Loaded 30-Minute Meals to Help You Thrive by Food Revolution Network CEO Ocean Robbins and Nichole DandreaRussert, MS, RD, published by Hay House.

CREAMY AND COZY VEGGIE RAMEN

This creamy, comforting, savory and satisfying coconut-based broth is a feast for the eyes. It also feeds the mind, body and soul.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

8 oz chopped button mushrooms (approx. 2 cups)

1 cup chopped white or yellow onion

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 Tbsp grated garlic cloves

1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

1 Tbsp finely minced fresh lemongrass, outer leaves removed

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

8 oz dry brown rice noodles

2 Tbsp mellow white or chickpea miso

1 cup canned light coconut milk

2 Tbsp coconut aminos or reduced-sodium tamari

2-3 tsp gochujang or chili paste

2 cups chopped bok choy

1 cup shelled frozen and thawed edamame

2 Tbsp lime juice

3 stalks green onion, thinly sliced

¼ cup chopped cilantro

Sriracha or hot sauce of choice to taste (optional)

To a large stockpot over medium-high heat, add the mushrooms, onion and red bell pepper. Stir occasionally until the onions are translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir in the garlic, ginger and lemongrass. Cook for another minute.

Add the vegetable broth and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and then add the noodles. Cook for 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the miso, coconut milk, coconut aminos and gochujang until the miso is completely dissolved.

Once the noodles are tender, turn off the heat and stir in the coconut milk mixture.

Add the bok choy and edamame, stirring until the bok choy is slightly wilted. Add the lime juice.

Divide the ramen among four bowls and garnish with a generous amount of green onion, cilantro and sriracha.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The noodles will continue to absorb the broth and may get a bit soggy.

Note: The coconut miso mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.

Substitutions: Button mushrooms can be replaced with shiitake, cremini or any other mushroom. Substitute red onion or shallots for the white or yellow onion. Green, yellow or orange bell pepper can replace the red bell pepper. Instead of bok choy, use spinach or kale. Add chickpeas in place of edamame.

Recipe from the cookbook Powered by Plants: Nutrient-Loaded 30-Minute Meals to Help You Thrive by Food Revolution Network CEO Ocean Robbins and Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RD, published by Hay House.

LIME COCONUT CHIA PUDDING WITH CRUSHED ALMONDS

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

¼ cup white (or black) chia seeds

2 Tbsp hemp seeds

1½ cups unsweetened plant-based milk

1 tsp lime zest

2 Tbsp lime juice

2 Tbsp maple syrup

¼ cup shredded unsweetened coconut

2 Tbsp crushed almonds

Add everything but the almonds to a medium-sized bowl or 16-ounce mason jar. Stir well so that the chia seeds are dispersed throughout the milk mixture.

Place in the refrigerator. After approximately 30 minutes, stir the mixture again and let it sit in the refrigerator for another 1 to 2 hours before serving.

When ready to serve, top with crushed almonds.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Nichole Dandrea-Russert of PurelyPlanted.com.

Please call ahead to confirm times and dates. Pre-register early to insure events will have a minimum number to take place. To place a calendar listing, email us before March 12 (for the April 2026 issue) and adhere to our guidelines. Email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com for guidelines on how to submit listings.

Sunday, March 1

Chair Yoga with Ilya Levitin – 12:15pm. Join us for a restorative Chair Yoga practice led by Ilya Levitin of Dancing Mudras Yoga, designed to nurture the body, mind and spirit. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Friday, March 6

Full Moon Circle – 6-7pm. Connect with lunar energy, plant wisdom, and receive intuitive messages. Free. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917- 267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Saturday, March 7

Open House – 10am-12pm. Visit our Early Childhood and Grades Campuses to view our classrooms, talk with teachers and learn about our wholistic approach to education. Free. Housatonic Valley Waldorf School, 40 Dodgingtown Rd, Newtown. 203-364-1113. WaldorfCT.org.

Herbal Vinegars for Liver Health – 12:151:15pm. Learn to craft herbal vinegars to support liver health using dandelion. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917- 2678203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com

Qigong for Beginners – 12:30-1:30pm. Experience Sanctuary Soulful Saturday with grounding Qigong—gentle movement, breathwork, meditation and self-massage. Beginner-friendly, seated or standing. Reduce stress, boost immunity and restore balance. $35. Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, 8 Commerce Rd, Newtown. CVHFoundation.org.

Energy of Life Healing Workshop – 1-4pm. Interactive workshop exploring intuitive, spiritually guided healing and the Energy of Life (EOL) process with Q&A. Price: Advance registration required; no walk-ins. Not handicapped accessible. Doors open at 12:30 pm. Contact Shirley Bloethe at YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com. $55. Center for Celestial Empowerment, 1533 New Britain Ave, Ste 3, Farmington.

Sanctuary Sound Bath – 3-4pm. Soulful Saturday Sound Bath at Catherine’s Learning Barn with Daniel Lauter. Immersive healing vibrations promote deep relaxation. Bring yoga mat, pillow and blanket for comfort. $45. Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary, 8 Commerce Rd, Newtown. Tinyurl.com/SanctuarySoundBathCVH.

NEXT DEADLINE

3/12/26

Sunday, March 8

Holistic Benefit Expo – 12-4pm. Family-friendly wellness expo with 45+ vendors, free raffle, kids activities; donations support Plainville Food Pantry. Free admission; donations requested. Free. Donations accepted. Contact Shirley R. Bloethe at YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com. VFW Hall, 7 Northwest Dr, Plainville. YourHolisticEvents.com.

Sunday, March 15

The Art of Forgiveness Workshop – 12:30pm. Join us for an interactive workshop exploring the freedom that comes with letting go. Through active meditation, journaling, and collage, you’ll be guided on a creative and spiritual journey toward release, healing and renewal. Suggested donation: $25. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Monday, March 16

Drum Circle – 7-8:30pm. Experience the power of rhythm, self-expression and deep connection with others through this fun and transformative drum circle led by Kevin Makarewicz. No experience needed. Bring your own drum or use the ones provided. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Wednesday, March 18

Medicinal Mushrooms – 6:30-7:30pm. Explore Reishi, Chaga, and Lion’s Mane + Reishi while crafting your own tincture. $25. Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, 56 Pole Bridge Rd, Sandy Hook. 917267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Saturday, March 21

Herbal Oils + Salves for Skin Health – 12:151:15pm. Learn to craft herbal oils and salves using calendula. $50. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917- 267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Spring Equinox Cacao and Sound Ceremony –3-4:30pm. Find balance and inner clarity with Tere Luna, holistic healer and Bradford Tilden, crystal/ sound master at this sacred gathering during the potent annual event. $90. Verbena Yoga studio, 92 N Summit St. Southington. 860 -830-5841. Info@ CrystalMusicHealing.com. Registration required: Tinyurl.com/SpringEquinoxCacaoSound2026

Sunday, March 22

Forever Young: Medicinal Mocktails for Vitality – 1-2pm. Craft delicious, health-boosting mocktails using medicinal herbs. Free. Herbs Love + Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Newtown. 917- 2678203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Saturday March 28

Universal White Time Gemstone Healing 1 Certification – 3/28 and 3/29. 9:30am-6:30pm both days. Learn to heal yourself, others, animals and the environment with this rare and ancient universal knowledge. Learn five powerful Gemstone layouts for the physical body and chakras. Initiation and certification included. Crystal Music Healing Center, 92 North Summit St, Southington. $495. Register with a $50 deposit. Tinyurl.com/ClassDeposit50 860-830-5841. Info@CrysalMusicHealing.com.

Saturday, April 4

The Healing Compress: Creating Herbal Therapy Packs for Sinus Relief – 2-3pm. Hands-on herbal compress workshop using chamomile, lavender and peppermint. Create heat-activated packs with flax and rice to support respiratory health and relieve congestion. Free. Herbs Love And Yoga, 111 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook. 917-267-8203. HerbsLoveAndYoga.com.

Mark Your Calendar

Center for Spiritual Development

In-Person Service

Every Sunday • 11am

In-Person: Ohm Chanting March 1 • 12:30-1:30pm

In-Person: Guided Meditation Tuesdays • 9-9:45am • March 3 & 10

Virtual: Spiritual Mediumship Monday Evenings • 7-9pm • March 9-April 13 • $120 for 6 sessions

Virtual: Edgar Cayce On Angels, Guides and the Afterlife with Kevin Todeschi, MA • March 11 • 7-9pm • $35

In-Person: Spiritual, Psychic & Healing Fair March 14 • 11am-4pm 25 min Readings: $65 • Reiki Healing: $40

Hybrid: New Members Info March 15 • 12:30-1:15pm

Virtual: Healing Service

March 19 • 7-7:30pm

In-Person: Metaphysics, Spiritual Philosophy & Self Unfoldment

March 22 • 12:30-2pm (Fourth Sundays: $30/session)

Center for Spiritual Development 293 Sound Beach Ave Old Greenwich • 203-637-4615

Email: CSDPastor@gmail.com Website: Center4SpiritualDev.org

Ongoing Events

Daily

Doors of Initiation Series Half-day – 9am. Oneday and multi-day immersive gatherings designed as sacred initiations into deeper spiritual alignment, healing and transformation. Experiences include Mary Magdalene Initiation, Lineage of the Rose Priestess Training, Art for Self-Discovery, Shamanic Healing and Elemental Magic. Events offered throughout 2026. Visit website for full schedule. Prices vary. 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Sunday

Sunday Healing Sessions at the Farm Jibe-iT –10am-12pm. Experience energy clearing, inner stillness and renewal in harmony with nature, animals, and Source. $25. Farm Jibe-iT, 119 Sunset Hill Rd, Redding. Jibe-it.com.

Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30-11:30am. Bring whatever faith you are currently experiencing and join us to celebrate the Spirit within. All are welcome. We meet every Sunday from 10:3011:30am. Love offerings gratefully accepted. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. UnityCenterNorwalk.org

Online Meditation Practice Session – 10-11am. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

The Awareness Project Co. Monthly Support Call – 5-6pm. Second Sunday. This conference call is for people affected by targeted harassment and electronic monitoring. We provide a safe, judgment free environment for survivors to rediscover their voice, share and find resources. Dial in number: 774-290-2200. Conference ID: 3733840.

Monday

TLC Online Holistic Networking Morning –8:30-10am. 2nd Mon. We are a vibrant and growing community committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities through our businesses and passions. Come the first time as Beth’s guest, and later become a TLC member. RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text).

Yin Yoga with Sharon Bridson – 4:30-5:30pm. A slow, meditative yoga practice using long-held floor poses to release deep connective tissue, improve flexibility and calm the mind. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Tuesday

AM Express: Harmony Flow Yoga – 7:308:30am. Start your day with Hardik Desai’s revitalizing practice blending posture, breath, and focus to harmonize body and mind, restore energy flow, and cultivate clarity, balance, confidence and deeper

self-awareness. As low as $16 per class. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642.

TLC Networking Breakfast in Norwalk – 8:30-10am. First Tuesday. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities and fun! $20. Valencia, 164 Main St, Norwalk. 203TLC.com.

Yogalates – 9:30-10:45am. Pilates-Yoga fusion tones glutes, thighs and abs. Low-impact, boosts fitness. Develop core strength, flexibility and alignment. Enhance posture. Improve fitness level. $22. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Yogaspace-CT.com.

Gentle Yoga with Christy – 10-11am. A nurturing, all-levels gentle yoga class focused on relaxation, flexibility and mindful movement. Ideal for stress relief, restoration and nervous system support. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

TLC Holistic Networking Evening in Newtown –6-7:30pm. Last Tuesday of each month. Calling all healthy living entrepreneurs and practitioners. Tribe TLC is a group of like-minded holistic practitioners and wellness entrepreneurs with a common mission to help and heal. Sticks and Stones Farm, 197 Huntingtown Rd, Newtown. 203TLC.com.

Candlelight Yoga with Jackie Jackson – 6:157:15pm. 1st & 3rd & 5th Tues. Every Other Tuesday. Time varies. A soothing, candlelit yoga class designed to promote deep relaxation, energetic balance and inner calm. Please check website for schedule. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com. TheAngelCoop.com.

Wednesday

Qigong with Josh – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 3rd & 5th Wed. Gentle qigong movement and breathwork to cultivate life-force energy, improve vitality, enhance balance and support whole-body wellness. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Mass Energy Healing with Aggregata – 10am12pm. A chance to gather with others in a safe, highvibrational space and receive deep energetic renewal, emotional clarity, and alignment with Source energy, guided by seasoned healer Aggregata Zupanova in the sacred setting of The Granite Church. $25/suggested donation. The Granite Church, 5 N Main St, Redding. Tinyurl.com/3cd276dm.

TLC Networking Happy After Hours in New Milford – 4:30-6:30pm. Second Wednesday. Opportunity to meet people in a relaxed atmosphere and make connections and celebrate good times. The Abbey, 132 Danbury Rd, New Milford. 203-856-9566. 203TLC.com.

TLC Online Holistic Networking Evening –6-7:30pm. Last Wednesday of the month. We are a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many marketing opportunities and fun. Online via Zoom. For logon info please RSVP to Beth at 203-856-9566 (call/text) or TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. 203TLC.com.

A Course of Love (ACOL) – 7pm. Join this discussion group centered around Mari Perron’s channeled book, A Course of Love. Let’s join our hearts and minds together as we share insights and life ex-

periences while integrating A Course of Love into our everyday lives. All are welcome. No ACOL experience needed. Love offerings gratefully accepted. $15. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

Body, Mind and Feelings Working Together –7-7:30pm. Experience a free weekly online SelfBreema class with certified instructors. Enjoy gentle movement, self-care and harmony through mindful presence and balance. No charge. Breema.com. Online Meditation Practice Session – 7-8pm. Online meditation practice sessions and Dharma talks using Zoom. All levels welcome. No formal charge. By donation. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Religion Meet – 7-8:30pm. What is the purpose of life? Our intent is to address these issues through lectures, readings and guided group discussions. We will present ancient concepts, cutting-edge theories, speculations, assertions, data, and most of all, thought-provoking ideas for discussion. Free. Aleph Talks, 606 Post Rd East, Ste 667, Westport. AlephTalks.com.

Thursday

Gentle Yoga with Christy – 4-5pm. A nurturing, all-levels gentle yoga class focused on relaxation, flexibility and mindful movement. Ideal for stress relief, restoration and nervous system support. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Did You Know you are Electric? – 4:30-5:30pm. Second Thursday. Get holiday-ready mentally, emotionally and physically. Learn to stay vibrant and stress-free while you shop and celebrate. Led by Carolyn Finch. Free, interactive, fun, practical session with expert guidance included. Nature’s Goods Market, 860 Straits Tnpke, Middlebury. 203-577-2000.

Mysticism: Where Science, Art and Spirituality Meet – 7-9pm. Bart Stuck (applied mathematician and physicist) and Marjorie Partch (Jungian astrologer) lead these weekly discussions, which follow readings and lectures on ancient concepts and cuttingedge theories, presenting fresh alternatives to the apparent dichotomy that. To participate via ZOOM: BartStuck@gmail.com. Free. AlephTalks.com.

Friday

Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm. First Friday. With Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/Teacher. Learn Reiki 1st level, from an experienced Reiki Master/ Teacher (29 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Helpful for stress reduction and more. Two Manuals and certificate included (4 attunements), private

classes offered). Please call to register. Prepayment required. This Workshop is also held on the first Saturday of the month, pick one date. Please no drop-ins. $135. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReiki.com.

Friday Night Fun Networking

Friday. With Beth Leas of Tribe TLC. Each month will feature a fun activity designed to enhance get ting to know one another . RSVP to Beth Leas at 203-856-9566 (call/text) Free. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. Yoga4Everybody.net.

Monthly Yoga Mom’s Night Out ond Friday. Join us for an evening that’s all about reclaiming you time. Calm your mind and body with candlelight yoga, a few other experiences. Space is limited to 16 moms, so please pre-register. $40. Come with a friend and get a special gift. $40. Yoga for Everybody, 85 Mill Plain Rd, 3rd Floor, Fairfield. 203-254-9642. Yoga4Everybody.net.

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Saturday

Saturday Dharma and Morning Meditation – 7:30-8:15am. Discuss various works on topics such as self-study, meditation, self-improvement, mindfulness, joy and much more. Discussion followed by 30-minute guided meditation. Proceeds donated to our charity of the month. $10/cash. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury. 203-730-0250. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

Yin to Restorative Yoga with Dana – 9-10:15am. 3rd Sat. A deeply relaxing class blending yin and restorative yoga for nervous system regulation, deep stretching and emotional reset. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Flow to Restore with Dana – 9-10:15am. 1st Sat. A balanced class combining gentle flow and restorative postures to awaken the body, release tension and restore energetic harmony. $25. The Angel Cooperative, 51 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-431-2959. TheAngelCoop.com.

Salt Cave of Darien: Yin/Stretch Yoga – 9:3010:30am. Feel good with dynamic stretching and restorative yin poses in the therapeutic salt cave—a soothing blend of stillness, rejuvenation and inner calm. Please bring your own yoga mat and blanket, and wear white socks. $30. Salt Cave of Darien, 555 Post Road, Darien . 203-658-7667. SaltCaveOfDarien.com.

In-Person Meditation Practice Session – 1011:30am. Limited in-person meditation practice. All levels welcome. If it’s your first time, please let someone know so that we can provide a brief introduction. Must register online. Donations encouraged. Center for Mindfulness & Insight Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-4pm. Fifth Saturday. with Gigi Benanti Reiki Master/ Teacher. Learn Reiki Second (Reiki2) level, from an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher (29 years). Private classes are offered. Includes latest info. Two powerful energy connections included, from Gigi’s short Japanese Usui Lineage. Two manuals

For Rent

BROOKFIELD – BEAUTIFUL, PROFESSIONAL FURNISHED OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE in integrative psychologist’s suite at 246 Federal Rd, Brookfield. Two offices for rent—ideal for psychotherapist, massage therapist, acupuncturist, etc seeking a warm, inviting environment. Includes a shared waiting room and bathroom. Excellent location and atmosphere. Dr. DeAnn Ewart: 860-488-3724.

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE NORWALK –Associates In Family Chiropractic & Natural Health Care located at 156 East Ave, Norwalk right off exit 16 I-95. We have 2 separate rooms available to rent. Perfect for another professional such as LMT, IBCLC, LCSW, etc. looking for inexpensive professional space (includes weekly cleaning, utilities and has shared common reception and bathroom). Please contact Dr. Mark Joachim: 203-856-8520.

Grow Your Business

IF YOU’RE READING THIS, SO ARE THOUSANDS OF OTHERS! Let Natural Awakenings connect your business with the right customers. Contact us today to grow your local reach and impact! Call: 914-830-8306 or email Erica@eNaturalAwakenings.com.

Community

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Erica@ eNaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

Alternative Wellness

CERESET WESTPORT

Crista Mathew, Owner/ Tech Coach 18 Kings Hwy N, Westport 203-557-3299

Info@Westport.Cereset.com Cereset.com/Centers/Cereset-Westport

Cereset (Cerebrum + Reset) is a proven, non-invasive technology that helps your brain naturally release stress, restoring balance and flexibility. In just five sessions, clients often experience deeper sleep, improved mood, increased energy, sharper memory, enhanced focus and better emotional regulation. See ad, page 13.

Cave Rental/Unique Gathering Space

SALT CAVE OF DARIEN 555 Post Rd, Darien 203-658-7667 • Info@SaltCaveofDarien.com SaltCaveofDarien.com

Our wellness destination offers an oasis of peace, calm and serenity. Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends and family, the Cave is inviting, warm and soothing. Check out our website for the many different ways to experience the benefits of our healing salt! See ad, page 2.

CBD/Hemp Wellness

HEMP LIFESTYLE

Valerie Aloisio, founder 203-521-2396

Valerie@HempLifestyleNetwork.com HempLifestyle.net

Chiropractic

UPPER CERVICAL DOC

Dr. Walter Trinidad, DC 161 East Ave, Ste 14, Norwalk 203-822-1461 • UpperCervicalDoc.org

Experience relief from chronic pain, migraines and stress with our gentle, precise upper cervical chiropractic care. Restore balance, revitalize health. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Trinidad, dedicated Upper Cervical Doc.

Education

EMBODY THE SACRED Deana Paqua, MA, LMT Ridgefield and New Milford Deana.Paqua@gmail.com

EmbodyTheSacred.net

Offering classes, training programs, healing sessions and mentoring in cross-cultural energy medicine and contemporary shamanism for healers, spiritual seekers and the energy sensitive. Learn self-healing, self-empowerment and trauma transformation through the sacred.

Herbal Medicine

HERBS LOVE AND YOGA

111 Church Hill Rd, Sandy Hook 917-267-8203

Discover Balance with Hemp Lifestyle. Support your body’s natural wellness with premium, organic hemp products. Trusted by physicians, triple lab-tested and U.S. Hemp Authority-certified, our cannabinoids help optimize sleep, mood, immunity and recovery. Visit HempLifestyle.net to learn more. See ad, page 16.

HerbsLoveAndYoga.com Learn plants with us @HerbsLoveAndYoga Herbs Love and Yoga is a Herbal Medicine School and Shop offering herbalist certifications, workshops and in-house made herbal products. Shop teas, tinctures, flower essences and CBD online or visit our Sandy Hook storefront. Yoga & reiki are also offered.

See the YOGA, PILATES, FITNESS NETWORK on page 21.

Integrative Optometry

EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD

Dr. Krupa Baxi • Dr. Allie Decker

Dr. Jason Grygier • Dr. Ken Landesman

Dr. Diana Ngo • Dr. Maryam Nizami

Dr. Justin Rapp • Dr. Sonia Singh

Dr. Magy Tepliz • Dr. Matthew Weatherbee

LOCATIONS:

6515 Main St., Trumbull,• 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave., Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd., Southport • 203-255-4005 992 High Ridge Rd., 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 572 US-6, Mahopac, NY • 845-628-3750 103 S Bedford Rd., Mount Kisco, NY • 914-241-2020 CTNYEyecare.com

We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. Call to schedule your appointment today.

Meditation

CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION

9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 • ReddingMeditation.org

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates selfawareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

Medium

DR. ELIZABETH RAVER, PHD

Evidential Psychic Medium 203-400-9212 RavElizabeth516@gmail.com DrLizMedium.com

Offers mediumship sessions, classes, workshops, private/ group readings. Zoom, phone, or in person. Monthly free international discussion group on zoom. Member of IANDS (International Association for Near Death Studies, Inc.) and ARED (Afterlife Research Education Discussion). See ad, page 17.

Metaphysical Store

THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative is a unique lifestyle boutique and metaphysical store, home to the USA’s first Shungite Room. Explore crystals, jewelry, candles, essential oils, divination tools, oracle decks and more. The Shungite Room offers energy sessions, readings, reiki, workshops and guided meditation, all led by experienced practitioners. Shungite, known for its antioxidant fullerenes, is believed to have powerful healing properties. Our offerings are designed to stir the soul and support innate healing. See ad, page 14.

Naturopathic Physician

NICOLE KLUGHERS, ND, PHARMD, MSAC

Vis Wellness Center

Rocky Hill & TeleMedicine Statewide (234) 2-ACU-DOC • DrNicoleKlughers.com Info@DrNicoleKlughers.com

Dr. Nicole Klughers offers comprehensive naturopathic care to restore optimal health and prevent disease. Dr. Nicole’s “health detective” approach identifies the root cause of symptoms and provides all-natural solutions such as personalized nutrition (food as medicine), herbal medicine, nutrient therapies, acupuncture and more. In-depth assessment is often done with detailed testing of vitamins/minerals, hormones, advanced cardiovascular markers, inflammation, food sensitivities, gut/microbiome and more. See ad, page 17.

Psychotherapy

NANCY S. SCHERLONG, LCSW, CHHC, SEP, CP, PTR/CJT-CM

Coaching • Psychotherapy • Consulting 470 Main St, Ridgefield 914-572-3167 • WellnessMetaphors.com

Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 10.

Readings/Counseling

MEG REILLY, MS, CH

Creator of the Echoes Deck

EchoesDeck.com

MegReilly360.com

The Echoes Deck is a 48card wisdom tool designed for inquiry, insight and guidance. In conversation with the cards, we explore the echoes you've created through four realms, so you can adjust and intentionally follow the energy that serves you best. See ad, page 2.

Reiki

GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER

Angelic Healing Center

7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

Salt Healing Therapy Wellness Center

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

787 Main St, S Woodbury 203-586-1172 • NaturalSaltHealing.com

Combining an array of natural therapies that have been used since ancient times with today’s technology, Salt of the Earth Spa provides a sanctuary for deep transformations, healing and grounding for Mind, Body and Spirit.

Sound Healing

THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Wing offers diverse workshops, retreats, energy work, readings, Reiki, massage, sound healing, meditation, acupuncture, Qi Gong and yoga classes. We also provide certification courses in Reiki, Crystal Healing, Meditation, Sound Healing and more—designed to uplift and align with New Earth energies. . See ad, page 14.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com

Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Using earth, dance and symphonic gongs, bowls, tuning forks and hummingfor-health meditations, her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 8.

Spiritual Center

UNITY CENTER OF NORWALK

Betsy Woods Brooks or Miranda Agosto

3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk 203-855-7922

Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org UnityCenterNorwalk.org

Unity Center of Norwalk is a spiritual co-op that offers a positive, practical, progressive approach to Spirituality. We’re about building community, deepening spirituality and transforming lives. Sunday services at 10:30am. Visit UnityCenterNorwalk.org for our monthly events calendar. See ad, page 10.

Transformative Healing

KATIE AUGUSTYN, MA, CPC

Transformation Coach, Shamanic Healer 203-820-3800

TransformationCenterCT@gmail.com TransformationCenterCT.com

Katie will assist you in reaching your true potential and heal what has been holding you back. You will experience real self-acceptance and start to live in alignment with who you truly are so you can create a life you love, a life of meaning and purpose. See ad, page 2.

BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot

Virtual and In-Person Sessions

203-856-9566

• BethLeas.com

If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 30+ years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 2.

Universal White Time Healing

BRADFORD W. TILDEN, MM, CMT, UWT

92 North Summit St, Southington 860-830-5841

Info@CrystalMusicHealing.com CrystalMusicHealing.com

Become certified in Universal White Time Healing! Bradford is one of the pioneering teachers and practitioners of this exclusive and incredible new global healing modality given to us by our ET allies for our healing, spiritual growth and the awakening of humanity. With White Time there is no limit to how strong a healer you can become, or how high you can spiritually evolve. See ad, page 17.

Voice & Sound Coaching

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford • 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Improve your voice, expand your range, find your ‘goldilocks’ note using soul singing, improvisation and ‘one with sound’ exercises. Learn from a certified vocal yoga teacher, sound healer and experienced performer who has studied with Bobby Mcferrin, Silvia Nakkach and Heather Lyle. Some of her music can be found at WiseFishWorld.com. Online Zoom groups and one on one sessions. See ad, page 8.

Wellness Center

HAUTE HEALING OASIS

Jessica & Peter Chichester 792 Pacific St, Stamford 203-595-5304 • Info@HauteHealingOasis.com HauteHealingOasis.com

HHO is your feel-great place! A 3,500-square-foot wellness spa and healing center featuring over a dozen wellness services in a caring feng shui inspired atmosphere. If you need relaxation, detoxification, body contouring or rehabilitation services, then you should check them out.

Yoga

THE ANGEL WING

A Divine Spiritual Center

Located next door to The Angel Cooperative 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 • TheAngelCoop.com

Follow us on Instagram (@shungiteroom) YouTube (The Angel Cooperative)

The Angel Cooperative offers diverse yoga classes at The Angel Wing, our spiritual center next door. Classes include vinyasa, gentle, yin, kundalini, restorative (with tarot/sound immersion), yoga nidra, Yoga Alliance® 200hr Teacher Training and workshops. Save 20% on Yoga Packages + enjoy a free first class! Our teachers believe yoga is for everyone—every body, every level. See ad, page 14.

HUMMINGBIRD SOUND YOGA LLC

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares

Merryall, New Milford 860-946-9470

BSoares@LightOfTheNewMoon.com Facebook @HummingbirdSoundYoga

Barbara (Bobbi) Soares, MA, CYT, is a sound yoga and vocal yoga teacher, blues/jazz singer and Reiki master, certified in several modalities of energy and sound healing. She offers Hummingbird Sound Yoga and sound healing immersions for groups and private sessions. Her goal is to help individuals experience becoming “one with sound” to promote a deep relaxation response that balances energy and encourages healing. See ad, page 8.