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The Art of Giving Well

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Years

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HOW TREES MAKE RAIN

Helping Children Grieve

Rooted in Gratitude LANCASTER-BERKS EDITION

NOVEMBER 2026

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

2027 EDITORIAL CALENDAR

Contents 16 Green Gift Guide for the Holidays 18 The Art of Giving Well 21 Gratitude in a Season of Less 24 The Secret Life of Essential Oils

28 Growing Our Capacity for Gratitude 31 Healthy Swaps for the Holiday Table 34 Building Strength for Life 36 The Prediabetes Wake-Up Call

38 How Trees Make Rain 40 Helping Children Navigate Loss 42 Safe Havens for Happy Dogs and Cats 44 Homeopathy Myths

Departments

TO PARTICIPATE, CONTACT: 717-399-3187 PUBLISHER@NALANCASTER.COM

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10 News Briefs 13 Kudos 14 Health Briefs 15 Global Briefs 16 Eco Tip 21 Mindful Journeys 22 Business Spotlight 24 Local Insight 26 Therapy Spotlight 28 Feature Story

31 Conscious Eating 34 Fit Body 36 Healing Ways 38 Green Living 40 Healthy Kids 42 Natural Pet 44 Homeopathy 45 Calendar 47 Resource Guide 47 Classifieds

YOUR HEALTH is our FOCUS

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HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings, visit our websites at NALancaster.com or NABerks.com, or contact us at Advertising@NALancaster.com or by phone at 717-3993187. Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Submit through our website or email articles, news items and ideas to: Publisher@NALancaster.com. Deadline for editorial: the 1st of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit events/classes through our website or email us at Publisher@NALancaster.com. Deadline: the 5th of the month. No phone calls or faxes, please. REGIONAL MARKETS Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet. OWN YOUR OWN FRANCHISE Make a difference in your community. Become a Natural Awakenings Franchise owner. Visit: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com.

Self-Heal with Barbara O’Neill

RETURNING TO LANCASTER IN 2027! MORE INFO: TwinValleyHealthAnd Wellness.com/events

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Publishers’ Letter

A Season of Gratitude

LANCASTER/BERKS EDITION Co-Publishers/ Kendra Campbell Executive Editors Jacqueline Mast Copy Editor Sara Gurgen Design & Production Steffi K. Kern Proofreader Randy Kambic Contributing Writer Trella Dubetz Administrative Assistant Carolyn Coogan Sales & Marketing Kendra Campbell

ratitude is a practice we can benefit from all year long, but at this time of year, it deserves special recognition. November also marks our publishing anniversary, and this year we celebrate 14 years of sharing stories, ideas and resources that support our community’s well-being. As we reflect on those years, we find so much to be grateful for. The people and businesses that have been part of our journey are at the heart of it, especially those that have been with us for much of that journey. They bring experience, wisdom, compassion and brilliance to their fields, enriching the vibrant community we are privileged to serve.

CONTACT US Ten Branches Publishing P.O. Box 6274 ∙ Lancaster, PA 17607 Phone: 717-399-3187 Publisher@NALancaster.com NALancaster.com • NABerks.com

Kendra Campbell & Jacqueline Mast

Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks @natural_lancasterberks

SUBSCRIPTIONS

We are grateful for the many that work to make a difference in the lives of others: those that protect our natural lands and waterways, champion sustainable practices and bring nutrient-dense foods to our tables; the many skilled professionals that continue learning and collaborating to provide thoughtful, comprehensive care for body, mind and spirit; and the dedicated yoga teachers and sound practitioners that help others find balance and a little more peace.

Visit our website to sign up for our free digital edition or to subscribe for home delivery. $36/12 issues or $60/24 issues. Cover image by peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock

NATIONAL TEAM

Through the magazine, we have the privilege of sharing ideas and inspiration that encourage healthier choices, deeper connections and a greater appreciation for the world around us. From nourishing recipes and practical ways to build strength and vitality to guidance on supporting our families, caring for our pets and navigating life’s changes, we aim to offer something meaningful for every stage of life. We are grateful to be part of a community that recognizes the importance of caring for ourselves, one another and the planet we share.

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle COO Michael Bevilacqua CMO Vee Banionis Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC National Editor Sandra Yeyati Editor Brooke Goode Copy Editor Melanie Rankin Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite Production Flip180

We are especially grateful for you: Our readers! Many of you have shared your appreciation for the magazine, and we receive those words with genuine humility. It is hard to express how much that encouragement means. It fills our cups, reminds us why we do this work, and inspires us to keep sharing information and perspectives that are thoughtful, useful and worthy of your time.

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

Fourteen years in, we remain grateful to do this work alongside you. Thank you for being part of the community that makes it meaningful!

Kendra Campbell & Jacqueline Mast, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors 8

Lancaster-Berks

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This month’s issue offers many ways to put gratitude into practice, from more mindful holiday giving and healthier seasonal favorites to ideas for nurturing our physical and emotional well-being. We hope these pages inspire you to live with greater intention, care for what matters and recognize the good that surrounds you.

© 2026 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks is a faithful steward of global resources and committed to being a part of an environmentally conscious community. We utilize a local printing company and an environmentallyfriendly cold-set web printing process which emits virtually immeasurable VOCs into the environment. This product is 100% recyclable.

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News Briefs

A New Home for Circle of Life Massage & Wellness Center

Discover Local Treasures at the Holiday Bazaar

After 22 years at its Ephrata location, Circle of Life Massage & Wellness Center is preparing to move to 240 North 7th Street, at Skyview Commons, in Akron. Owner Jennifer Dydo reflects on “22 years of relationships that have grown alongside us,” sharing that the relocation holds emotional significance. “I’m grieving the space that has held so much, even as I’m genuinely thrilled about the move and what’s coming next.”

Kula Kamala Foundation, a nonprofit, nonsectarian spiritual center in Reading, will host its annual Holiday Bazaar from 1 to 5 p.m. on December 5, offering the community an opportunity to shop local vendors, hear live music and enjoy vegan and gluten-free food. The event coincides with the foundation’s monthly First Saturday programming.

The new location is expected to open by late November and will offer eight massage rooms, a private infrared sauna room with halotherapy and a dedicated vibroacoustic therapy room. Better parking and handicapaccessible spaces are also planned. Massage and bodywork, vibroacoustic therapy, health and nutrition coaching, and life and business coaching will continue, while float therapy will no longer be offered in the new space. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 717-3352338, email Help@CircleOfLifeWellness.com or visit CircleOfLife Wellness.com. See ads, pages 25, 47 and 50.

WellBeing in West Reading The Nest Collaborative will host WellBeing West Reading from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 14, offering a free community event focused on exploring different pathways to greater well-being. The day will feature short demonstrations and mini practices led by Nest collaborators, including movement, yoga, qigong, meditation, sound and more. No experience is necessary, and attendees can participate in as many or as few activities as they wish. The event will also offer opportunities to meet local wellness and community partners, enjoy light refreshments, enter special raffles, shop Nest merchandise and take advantage of a one-day Wellness Passport special. With a spirit of gratitude, the gathering highlights practitioners and businesses that contribute to well-being in West Reading while giving attendees a chance to explore new practices, connect with others, or simply pause and recharge. Location: 629 Court St., West Reading. For more information, visit TheNestCollaborative.com. See ads, pages 35 and 54.

Lancaster-Berks

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Throughout the day, attendees can also participate in by-donation classes, workshops and special events. Kids’ crafts and a soup sale round out the day. The foundation’s Food4All Café will be open for lunch and dinner, providing additional food options for visitors and holiday shoppers. Admission is free. Classes, workshops and Food4All Café meals are by donation. Advanced registration is encouraged. Location: 17 Basket Rd., Reading. For more info, call 484-509-5073, ext. 5, or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org. See ads, pages 17 and 54.

Elemental Wellness Marks Move With Open House Elemental Wellness is moving to a larger location this month at 879 Fritztown Road, in Sinking Spring. The move will allow the business to expand its services and develop a wellness collective that brings holistic and counseling providers together. An open house will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on December 4, giving community members and wellness providers an opportunity to tour the new space, connect and enjoy food. Wellness providers may also leave marketing materials for community members. Elemental Wellness is seeking providers interested in facilitating small groups or subletting office space as part of the new community. The expansion aims to create greater connections between counseling and holistic services while also supporting a collaborative approach to whole-person wellness. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 610-7509447, email Info@ElementalWellnessLLC.com or visit Elemental WellnessLLC.com. See ads, pages 12 and 48.

Greek Thyme Honey Sweetens Gifting

Radiance Celebrates 20 Years of Conscious Living Photo: Eftihia Buffington

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Contact: 717-399-3187 Publisher@NALancaster.com

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Coming in December

Living Generously

Location: 13 W. Grant St., Lancaster. For more information, call 717-290-1517, email HerbsFromTheLabyrinth@gmail.com or visit HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com. See ads, pages 20 and 50.

...Focused on YOU

D r. M

Shopping at Radiance offers more than discovering something special. Supporting independent retailers helps preserve local jobs, promote fair trade and strengthen community resilience. Through thoughtful sourcing and a commitment to community, Radiance demonstrates how everyday purchasing decisions can contribute to a more sustainable and connected local economy.

Whole Body Healthcare

For two decades, Radiance has offered carefully selected goods for the home, for creating meaningful and restorative spaces, for learning and exploring, and for wearing and giving. Its collection emphasizes unique, high-quality items chosen with an eye toward sustainability, craftsmanship and conscious consumption.

Arma Greek thyme honey is available locally at Julia’s Health & Nutrition, Miller’s Natural Foods, Vine Bar, Yiasou Greek Market & Café, Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Ellister’s Elixirs, Prussian Street Arcade, Mandros Imported Foods, Stauffers of Kissel Hill, in Rohrerstown, and Lititz, Zest! and Fitch + Fern. For more information, visit ArmaHerbs.com. See ad, page 20.

An herbalist with a vision rooted in conscientious living, Preston has shaped Radiance around the belief that shopping can reflect personal values while strengthening community connections. “I can hardly believe it’s been 20 years,” she exclaims. “It’s been such a joy to see our community grow and to feel the support for Radiance grow stronger over the years.”

With its remarkable shelf life, honey can also be enjoyed long after the holidays, making it a gift that continues to give.

MCP

Guests can make their own Wave Goodbye to the Patriarchy hankies and sample Longevitea tea blend, created by Herbs From the Labyrinth, the herbal product line developed by Radiance owner Sarah Preston.

As consumers seek holiday gifts that feel personal and purposeful, specialty foods with a story to tell offer a sweet alternative to conventional presents. Arma Greek thyme honey brings together distinctive flavor, natural origins and a tradition of hospitality that stretches back centuries.

Deeply rooted in Greek culture, honey was revered as the “nectar of the gods” and associated with longevity and divine favor. Arma’s premium raw honey is made from the nectar of thyme blossoms, prized for its distinctive aroma and flavor. It makes a thoughtful addition to a holiday gift basket or a standalone gift for anyone that appreciates natural foods.

P, IF

Sarah Preston in front of Radiance

Radiance, Lancaster’s destination for thoughtfully curated goods that nurture well-being, creativity and conscious living, will celebrate its 20th anniversary from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 28. The gala event will feature special product giveaways, festive activities and opportunities to experience the shop’s distinctive offerings.

l l y, F M C H C

Adult Primary Care, Personalized and Functional Medicine In-person care & telehealth available. Call: 717-490-6227 • Preventative Care • Thyroid & GI Health • Detox Support • Autoimmunity • Neuro-Lingusitic Programming

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News Briefs

Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Info Session

Yoga teachers that have completed a 200-hour teacher training and are ready to deepen their practice and expand their teaching skills can learn about Willow Yoga Studio’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training at a free information session on Saturday, November 28, from 1 to 2 p.m.

The Rosemary House, in Mechanicsburg, will offer its Way of Life Practical Herbalism Class from January through October 2027. This 10-month course is designed for those seeking a deeper understanding of medicinal herbs and their traditional uses.

Each month, participants will study a different body system and the herbs commonly used to support it. Herbal medicine-making demonstrations, garden tours and tea tastings will complement the lessons. Participants will also complete Rosemary Gladstar’s Science and Art of Herbalism course as part of the program.

Beginning in January 2027 and running through February 2028, the program offers an opportunity to build knowledge, confidence and a more nuanced approach to teaching. Topics include advanced sequencing and asanas, workshop development, hands-on assisting, trauma-informed teaching, Ayurveda and specialized practices such as chair yoga. The curriculum combines one immersive training weekend each month with monthly Tuesday evening Zoom support, a summer break in July and unlimited yoga classes throughout the program.

Established in 1968, The Rosemary House is an herb shop and educational resource owned and operated by 6th generation herbalist Susanna R. Reppert, who will lead the course. She is also the author of the Essential Home Apothecary Handbook and the founder of the California School of Herbal Studies. A Way of Life Practical Herbalism Course teaches not just medicinal herbalism but dips into gardening, crafting, culinary and lifestyle tips with herbs.

The info session will explore the curriculum, schedule and program expectations, helping prospective participants determine whether this next step in their teaching journey is right for them. Registration is requested.

Cost: $1,400; deposit due at registration, with the balance payable over nine months. Location: 120 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-697-5111, email TheRosemaryHouse@ aol.com or visit RosemaryEvents.blogspot.com. See ad, page 39.

Cost: Info session is free. 300-hr YTT is $4,308; payment options available. Location: 25 Nolt Ave., Willow St. For more information or to register, visit WillowYogaStudio.com. See listing, page 54.

You Are More Than What You've Been Through

HEATH CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER

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Holistic Trauma Counseling ... to help you understand old patterns, reconnect with yourself and find a path toward healing.

Dr. Darlene Heath DC, CTT

We help uncover and address the underlying causes of health challenges through a comprehensive whole-person approach that evaluates: 3 Structure & Nervous System 3 Stress & Emotional Wellbeing Function 3 Energy & Bioenergetic Balance 3 Nutrition & Cellular Health 3 Lifestyle & Longevity Factors

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AS Photography/Pexels.com

Registration Open for 2027 Herbalism Course

879 Fritztown Rd · Sinking Spring In-person & Telehealth · 610.750.9447

www.elementalwellnessllc.com

Kudos

Vita Health Nursing Team Yvonne Godin (left) and Isha Patel.

Vita Health Introduces Regenerative Beauty Treatments Vita Health, in Lancaster, has introduced platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) treatments, a regenerative aesthetic approach that uses components derived from a patient’s own blood. The treatment, available for under-eye rejuvenation, full-face treatment and hair restoration, is intended to support collagen production, improve skin texture and restore vitality. “This service supports the body’s natural healing abilities and offers a gentle, holistic approach to rejuvenation,” explains Vita Health founder Yvonne Godin, stating that treatments are performed with care, precision and a deep understanding of holistic wellness for those seeking a more natural approach to skin care. “Many clients are looking for ways to age gracefully while honoring their commitment to natural living,” notes Godin, a certified provider who brings nursing experience and advanced training to the practice. “This is an exciting step forward in integrative aesthetics,” Godin adds. “We’re proud to be bringing it to the local community.” Treatment recommendations and pricing are tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Consultations are available for those interested in learning more about the various options. Cost: Pricing varies per treatment area. Location: 1834 Oregon Pike, Ste. 12, Lancaster. For more information or to make an appointment, call 717-208-5686 or visit VitaHealth-Wellness.com. See ads, pages 30, 51 and 54.

Photo: Hailee Becker

Dr. Super’s House of Health recently welcomed Benjamin Super, LMFT, to its team, where he is now providing mental health therapy services through telehealth and nature-based sessions. Super brings more than five years of experience working with children and families and has developed a particular interest in supporting youth and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Super is trained in ecosystemic family therapy and incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed Benjamin Super, LMFT therapy and nature-informed therapy into his practice. His systemic approach considers the broader relationships and circumstances that may influence a client’s challenges. Passionate about creating supportive therapeutic experiences and meeting with clients in nature when appropriate, Super’s telehealth sessions provide flexibility for clients seeking mental health support in a setting that works for them. Capital Blue Cross insurance is accepted, with sliding-scale cash rates also available. Location: 2209 Quarry Dr., Ste. B21, Reading. For more information or to make an appointment, call 610-601-9011 or visit DrSupersHouseOfHealth.com. Benjamin Super can be reached directly by email at BSuperdshoh@gmail.com. See listing, page 48.

C J u li e

D a v is

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Soundwise Health Associates has recently added three practitioners—Julie Davis, Christine Bomberger and Ashley Hopkins—to its team. All of them are graduates of the Soundwise School of Harmonic Therapy and bring diverse training and experience to their sound and energy healing practices. Davis has a background in psychology, addiction studies, crisis intervention, behavioral health and therapeutic sound. Bomberger combines reiki and sound healing with an approach shaped by overcoming childhood adversity and adult health challenges. Hopkins draws on her background in singing, theater and years as a worship pastor, incorporating intuitive vocals into her sound practice. Each new practitioner expands the range of experience available through Soundwise Health Associates while providing an opportunity for their individual communities to connect with them at their new location. Location: Liberty Place Center, 313 W. Liberty St., Ste., 263, Lancaster. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 610-301-4356 or visit SoundwiseHealth.com. See ads, pages 37 and 53. November 2026

Health Briefs

Pleasant Experiences Relieve Depression

Daniel Megias/shutterstock

During the study, 98 patients with moderate-to-severe depression and anxiety, along with severe anhedonia, were randomly assigned to receive weekly sessions of either PAT or NAT. PAT patients were instructed to initiate and deeply savor pleasurable activities, while NAT patients focused on threat processing and reducing negative emotions. Participants provided weekly reports on behavioral, physiological, reward and threat measures. The results demonstrated that PAT’s reward-focused intervention led to greater reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms than NAT.

Jo Panuwat D/shutterstock

Anhedonia, the inability to feel joy or pleasure, is a common and dangerous symptom of depression that develops when the brain’s reward system (a network of neural structures) becomes less responsive to positive experiences. A recent study in JAMA Network Open reports that positive affect treatment (PAT), a 15week psychotherapy targeting this reward system, effectively treats depression and anxiety. Training patients to find joy, connection and meaning significantly outperformed negative affect treatment (NAT), which focuses on reducing negative emotions.

Urolithin A’s Promise for Gut Health

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causes inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining, affecting millions globally. The gut barrier allows nutrients to enter the body while blocking harmful bacteria, but in IBD patients, the barrier breaks down, leading to inflammation, pain and long-term complications. A 2026 study on mice published in Nature Communications examined urolithin A (UroA), a microbial metabolite produced by digesting foods like pomegranates, walnuts and berries. Researchers discovered that UroA activates a protective pathway in the intestine, potentially preserving gut health and reducing tissue damage. In human tissue samples from IBD patients, UroA activated the same protective pathway observed in the mice experiments. The findings suggest that future IBD treatments might focus on the body’s natural protective pathways instead of broadly suppressing the immune system.

Yo-yo dieting is a global phenomenon. About half of adults are trying to lose weight, but many regain substantial weight once they stop dieting, leading to repeated cycles of loss and gain. A comprehensive review published this May in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology analyzed decades of observational data, clinical trials and animal models. The findings showed no evidence that weight cycling permanently slows metabolism, causes disproportionate muscle loss or results in long-term harm to obese patients. The researchers noted that regaining weight typically returns health and metabolic markers to pre-dieting levels, causing dieters to lose the temporary health improvements they experienced when they were lighter. Professor Faidon Magkos, of the University of Copenhagen, a co-author of the study, stated that the benefits of attempting weight loss outweigh the theoretical risks of weight cycling. 14

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Yo-Yo Dieting and Health

Global Briefs

Valentyn Volkov/shutterstock

Stringent regulations by the U.S. Department of Agriculture dissuades many farmers from participating in the organic honey market, but new research may lead to an easing of these restrictions, paving the way for an influx of new organic-honey manufacturers. Currently, apiaries must provide a nearly four-mile buffer zone of organiccertified or natural, undeveloped and uncultivated land for bees to forage, which can be difficult to locate. However, new research suggests that bees need only a fraction of that buffer to produce honey with extremely low or undetectable pesticide residues.

Soru Epotok/shutterstock

Better Outlook for Organic Honey

North American Bird Losses Are Accelerating

A Cornell University study published in Science of the Total Environment established 72 organically managed bee colonies across six large organic farms in the Northeast. Each colony was surrounded by 56 to 93 percent natural or semi-natural spaces, including forests, wetlands and fallow fields within an approximate two-mile radius. The researchers found that the bees foraged a median distance of less than half a mile from their hives.

A 2026 study published in Science showed that declines in North American bird populations are speeding up year after year in regions with rising temperatures and intensive agriculture. According to the researchers, these accelerating declines were strongly associated with three factors: the heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, which destroy local insects, wiping out the birds’ main food source; the replacement of native plants and grasslands with massive crop fields, eliminating nesting grounds; and rising temperatures that compound the problem, adding environmental stress to these altered landscapes. The scientists noted strong statistical correlations between agricultural intensity/rising temperatures and faster bird losses, though they stressed that correlation does not strictly prove single-factor causation.

After testing the nectar for 96 pesticide residues and comparing it to 20 store-bought brands, researchers determined that the pesticide content was low and comparable to the certified-organic honeys, while residue levels were much higher in the conventional products. The study demonstrated that it is possible to produce clean honey even in relatively small organic farms and that strict buffer mandates may be unnecessarily large.

The researchers used data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey, covering more than 261 species in the U.S. and Canada, rather than tracking other variables such as migratory routes or wintering locations. In the U.S., the highest overall net declines in bird numbers occurred in warmer regions such as Florida, Texas and other Southern states. The fastest acceleration of losses, was most prominent in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and California.

Beyond Cosmetic

A WHOLE BODY approach to Dental Care

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E C O - F R I E N D LY C L E A N I N G , T O TA L P E A C E O F M I N D.

Eco Tip

Green Gift Guide for the Holidays

More Family Time Hughes Home Services

by Natural Awakenings staff

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Direct Primary Care & Comprehensive Wellness Clinic Contact us today to learn more and plan your first visit:

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Dr. Mary Tierney, M.D.

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uring the holidays, the familiar rush of gift shopping can often overshadow the true spirit of the season. For Earth-conscious people, rampant overcommercialization can feel overwhelming. Eco-friendly gifting is a thoughtful alternative that not only reduces waste, but also supports local communities, small businesses and conservation efforts. Carefully chosen eco-friendly gifts prioritize sustainability over excess while celebrating their usefulness, beauty and benefits for the planet. This style of giving can make the holidays more purposeful and memorable while supporting a healthier lifestyle. Here are some inspiring gift ideas: For home chefs that want to reduce waste and single-use plastics, a reusable starter set for the kitchen can include produce

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bags, beeswax wraps, cloth napkins, bamboo utensils, dishcloths, silicone storage bags and stainless-steel straws. Take a look at the products available locally at Zest! or Lemon Street Market or online at Papaya Reusables.com, Blueland.com, BambuHome. com, KleanKanteen.com or Grove.co. For those that enjoy pampering themselves, consider sustainable, nontoxic personal care products such as refillable deodorants, shampoo and hair conditioner bars, concentrated cleaners and natural soaps. Find products at one of our local partners—Blue Door Merc & Perc, GSL Organics, Homefields Cottage Shop, Inshanti or Naturally Lathered—or look online at WeAreWild.com or AttitudeLiving.com. For travelers that want to leave a smaller footprint, carry-on reusables such as a stainless-steel water bottle, bamboo toothbrush, travel utensil set, reusable coffee

cup and cloth shopping bag or handcrafted basket are thoughtful choices. Explore local options at Kimberton Whole Foods and Radiance or visit AkamaiBasics.com or EarthHero.com. For experiences that create lasting memories without adding clutter, a nature center membership at Berks Nature, a botanical garden pass, a kayak rental or a gardening class at Horn Farm Center or with Penn State Master Gardeners all make wonderful gifts, allowing the recipient to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Nature-oriented local or overseas travel is available through the Living Wild Collective. Other ideas for nature lovers include an outdoor yoga or meditation session or a birdwatching tour. To tantalize the tastebuds, Arma Greek thyme honey and homemade, infused olive oils, spice mixes or handcrafted granola—packaged in reusable glass jars— encourage a more sustainable lifestyle.

For art lovers, upcycled arts and crafts made from recycled glass, fabric remnants, bicycle tires, reclaimed wood or repurposed materials are unique, creative gifts that support local artists while reducing waste and giving new life to old materials. For animal lovers, supporting the nonprofit Lancaster Farm Sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued farm animals to live in companionship with one another. A symbolic animal adoption through organizations like WorldWildlife.org, Oceanic Society.org and Endangered.org benefits endangered species and includes educational materials so the recipient can learn about the animal they are supporting. For gardeners and homeowners, pollinator kits include native wildflower seeds, herbs or pollinator-friendly starter plants that support bees, butterflies, birds and other local wildlife. They can be purchased through online retailers, specialty native plant nurseries and conservation

organizations. Gift certificates toward landscape restoration or the creation of a native pollinator garden make great gifts. Colorgarden, Mayapple Native Landscaping, Waxwing Ecoworks and Wildcraft Landscapes are a few local experts providing these services. For those that enjoy fresh local produce, a membership subscription to a community supported agriculture program, such as Homefields, is a thoughtful gift that supports local growers and encourages seasonal healthy eating while reducing the carbon footprint of food transportation. Locally grown produce and agricultural products can also be found nearby at Livengood Family Farm or one of myriad local farms offering seasonal bounty. Note to the reader: Visit the local businesses mentioned in this article and in the rest of this edition this holiday season and all year long. Happy giving!

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NATURAL AWAKENINGS PRESENTS

The Art of Giving Well

THOUGHTFUL GIFTS. MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES. A LIT TLE MORE GOOD IN THE WORLD. Thoughtful giving can take many forms, from products that support a healthier planet to experiences that nurture well-being, spark creativity or offer a necessary pause from the everyday. Our Give Well Guide brings together local businesses offering inspiration for gifts that bring a little more care, intention and joy to the season. This month, explore the possibilities of sustainable gift giving highlighted in our “Green Giving Guide”; in December, discover the lasting value of experience-based gifts. Together, they offer fresh perspectives on making holiday gifts meaningful—for the people we love and the world we share.

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Mindful Journeys

A walk through November woods offers reminders that beauty doesn’t disappear when the leaves fall. Birds move through bare branches and the scent of damp earth fills the air. Slowing down to notice these details can become a practice of gratitude, one that extends beyond the woods. It might mean noticing the last herbs in the garden and turning them into infused oil for a friend, gathering fallen seed pods and responsibly collected evergreen clippings for handmade decorations, tucking a handwritten note inside a book or arriving at someone’s door with a pot of homemade soup. Each gesture is meaningful and made with intention.

Gratitude in a Season of Less An Invitation to Let Go, Get Outside and Rediscover What Really Matters by Molly Swan

ovember has a way of reminding people that change is inevitable. Mornings grow cooler, daylight fades and trees reveal themselves as their last leaves fall to the ground. There is something beautiful about a tree standing bare. Without its leaves, its character becomes visible. The twists and turns of its branches, shaped by years of growth, leave nothing hidden. Perhaps there is something to be learned from a tree that stands free, without anything to hide.

While the natural world sheds what it no longer needs, society seems to demand the opposite. The quiet rhythm of the season gives way to expectations of picture-perfect gatherings, elaborate decorations and endless obligations. Behind carefully curated images are people quietly wondering whether they’ve done enough. Someone may spend weeks preparing for a gather-

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Communities have long gathered around food, music, storytelling and handmade gifts. Perhaps returning to these traditions means remembering that authentic connection doesn’t require a perfect home, an elaborate meal or a reason to impress. It means making room for the people and experiences that matter rather than the expectations that so often fill the calendar.

ing, only to find themselves exhausted in the kitchen while everyone else enjoys the evening. Somewhere along the way, the simple pleasure of being together has become overshadowed by the performance of togetherness. Perhaps it’s time to let some of that go. Not because decorating is wrong or giving someone a beautiful gift isn’t meaningful, but because when generosity becomes an obligation, something essential gets lost. Gratitude, a word repeated throughout the season, can become buried among the traditions intended to celebrate it. Yet gratitude begins with noticing what is already there, shifting attention from what’s missing toward what remains meaningful, even amid life’s difficulties. Maybe the natural world is a good place to begin.

Imagine a potluck picnic beneath a maple shedding its last leaves. Mismatched dishes, homemade food and picnic tables decorated with treasures gathered along the trail set the scene. Friends share stories and laughter as warm cups of cider are passed around a fire. Nothing elaborate. Just the pleasure of showing up and being together. As the last leaves fall from the maple, its branches become visible against the November sky. Nothing to hide. Nothing to prove. Just the quiet beauty of standing exactly as it is. Molly Swan is the founder of Living Wild Collective, a nature-based travel and experience company rooted in connection, curiosity and reciprocity. A certified forest therapy guide, licensed South African field guide and wildlife tracker, she leads immersive journeys through Southern Africa and nature-centered experiences closer to home in Pennsylvania. Through her work, she encourages people to slow down, reconnect with the natural world and rediscover a sense of belonging. Connect with her at LivingWildCollective.com. See listing, page 54. November 2026

Business Spotlight

Zest! Bringing Flavor, Confidence and Connection to the Kitchen by Sara Gurgen

classes began October 28. The new space adds 1,000 square feet, allowing the school to accommodate more students while enhancing the hands-on experience. Floor outlets provide power for induction burners at each cooking station. “The only complaint we ever receive is that all the classes are sold out,” Landis notes. “This has been a dream for quite some time, and we are all really excited about bringing this advancement to our classes.” Landis’ inspiration for the cooking school came from an unexpected request while she was working at Williams Sonoma, where she led tastings and classes. A customer asked Landis to teach her how to cook, and the two began meeting for private lessons at Landis’ home. Over more than a year, the student progressed from having little cooking experience to compiling a recipe book and becoming an accomplished home cook.

Classes Build Confidence in the Kitchen

Zest! cooking classes offer more than instruction in new recipes. With ingredients and equipment ready at each station, participants work alongside an experienced chef instructor, preparing dishes step by step, asking questions and practicing techniques along the way. At the end of class, everyone gathers to enjoy the meal they’ve prepared together.

ooking is about more than following a recipe. It can be an opportunity to explore new flavors, build confidence and connect with others. At Zest!, in Lititz, founder Sharon Landis has spent years cultivating that spirit through a thoughtfully curated culinary shop and hands-on cooking school. Since opening in 2012, Zest! has evolved alongside customers’ changing interests, from specialty cooking tools and artisanal ingredients to interactive, chef-led classes that help home cooks master everything from French macarons and homemade pasta to sourdough bread. At the heart of it all is a desire to make cooking more enjoyable and encourage culinary curiosity. “Originally, I opened Zest! to offer the kind of shopping experience I enjoy—a place to find useful, hard-to-find products that make cooking more enjoyable and inspire a sense of adventure,” Landis explains. “This vision eventually led to the cooking school, where we focus on instilling confidence to pursue that adventure.”

A Bigger Space for Culinary Exploration

That vision has continued to grow. Last month, the Zest! Cooking School relocated to the Shops at Rockvale, in Lancaster, where 22

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“We hope everyone leaves with the confidence to not only prepare the recipes they’ve learned, but to try some new ones on their own,” Landis says. For those that feel intimidated by cooking, Landis encourages a spirit of experimentation rather than perfection. She cites Julia Child’s advice: “Learn how to cook—try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless and above all have fun.” Classes also provide opportunities to spend time with friends, meet new people and celebrate special occasions. Whether planning a fun outing or marking a birthday or other milestone, a cooking class offers a chance to try something different while developing useful skills. For gift-givers, Landis recommends a gift card so recipients can choose a class date and time that works for them.

A Shop Full of Discovery

The retail shop remains an essential part of the Zest! experience. Its changing assortment reflects customer interests, including a growing focus on healthier eating, ingredient transparency and cooking at home. Current interests include mocktails, sourdough baking, nontoxic cookware and tools, and clean-ingredient products such as dye-free sprinkles.

“Being a small business, we can adjust to these needs very quickly,” Landis observes. “The heart of Zest! is that we are constantly changing in response to our customers.”

Integrated Health Care for the Whole Family

The shop also celebrates local craftsmanship. Lancaster Cast Iron has received an enthusiastic response from customers that appreciate locally made products. Zest! also carries Made In cookware, a brand originally designed for professional chefs and used in Michelin-starred restaurants. For a thoughtful gift, Landis suggests a Mason Cash ceramic bowl filled with specialty foods or kitchen gadgets. Customers can also ask the team to assemble a personalized gift basket.

Bringing People Together

For Landis, Zest! offers more than products and cooking lessons. She sees a growing desire for tangible, in-person experiences that offer a break from online shopping and the isolation that can accompany working from home. “We are humans and we are meant to be with each other,” she says. “The digital life just doesn’t fill that desire to connect.” Whether customers discover an unexpected kitchen tool or share a meal with fellow students, those experiences can create lasting memories. For Landis, some of the most rewarding moments come when returning customers share how they recreated a class recipe at home or found that a new gadget transformed their cooking routine. “It seems a small thing, but Zest! and the Zest! Cooking School are making a positive impact on people’s lives,” Landis reflects. “What more could you ask for?” The Zest! store is located at 30 E. Main St., in Lititz. The Zest! Cooking School is located at 35 S. Willowdale Dr., Ste. 1723, in Lancaster. For more information, call 717-6266002 (store) or 717-435-8890 (school) or visit ZestChef.com. See ad, page 19.

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Local Insight

The Secret Life of Essential Oils Why Plants Make Them and Why Humans Value Them by Debra Stoltzfus and Susan Cherie Beam, Ph.D.

When obtained through distillation— or, in the case of citrus peels, through mechanical expression or cold pressing— these volatile compounds make up the essential oils found in little glass bottles lining store shelves.

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Returning to the orange: As the peel breaks, tiny oil-containing structures rupture and release a sharp, sweet fragrance. The resulting essential oil contains numerous aromatic compounds, with limonene typically making up the largest proportion. The sweet, citrus aroma is enjoyable to inhale, but at the same time, the aromatic compound contributes to the orange’s defense against some insects and microbes.

magine plucking an orange from a tree and breathing in that distinctive citrus aroma. That fragrance comes from aromatic compounds produced by the plant. These compounds are part of the plant’s natural way of “solving problems” and interacting with its environment.

How Plants Solve Problems

Plant metabolites are broadly categorized as either primary or secondary. Primary 24

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metabolites are related to growth and energy, while secondary metabolites, or “problem solvers”, are compounds that support the plant’s interactions with its environment. Depending on the plant and compound, these problem solvers may be found in the flowers, leaves, needles, fruit peels, roots, bark, wood or resin. They help repel unwanted insects, discourage certain microorganisms and attract pollinators.

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Or, another way to think of it: that smell reflects thousands of years of botanical evolution. The fragrance is part of the orange’s adaptation to its environment, serving as both a natural defense and a way to attract specific animals to eat the fruit and spread seeds, ensuring the plant’s survival. Of course, there are a number of ways that plants have evolved to ensure their survival. Some plants may develop flowers to attract bees for pollination. Others release volatile compounds following injury or insect feeding. Nearby plants and other organisms may detect these chemical signals—a botanical alarm system.

From Plant Problem Solvers to Human Problem Solvers Scientists have learned that these compounds have aromatic and personal care benefits, including properties associated with relaxation and mood enhancement, skin and respiratory support and antimicrobial activity. In this way, these plant problem solvers become human problem solvers, too.

For example, beyond its pleasant aroma, some studies have found that inhaling sweet orange aroma can reduce anxiety in certain controlled settings, while laboratory research has demonstrated antimicrobial activity in sweet orange oil and its predominant constituent, limonene. When inhaled, aromatic molecules are detected by the olfactory system, which is closely connected to the brain’s emotion and memory regions. A future article in this series will explore how botanical identity, environmental conditions and chemical analysis shape an essential oil’s chemical composition and potential benefits. From an orange hanging on a tree to sweet orange essential oil diffusing in a room, the same compounds that help plants interact with their environments may also offer meaningful benefits to humans. That’s the power of plants—and their problem-solving abilities. Debra Stoltzfus, owner of Inshanti Pure Essential Oils and Wellness Spa, is a clinical aromatherapist with more than 20 years of experience. Her advanced education includes aromatic medicine, essential oil chemistry and integrated essential oil therapeutics. She is passionate about helping others understand the chemistry, safety and appropriate use of essential oils. Dr. Susan Cherie Beam is a writer and adjunct professor at four universities. With a passion for self-care and education, she loves exploring new ideas and information. Location: 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd., Kinzers. For more information, call 717-587-3990, email Debra@Inshanti.com or visit Inshanti. com/classes. See ads, pages 18 and 48.

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Therapy Spotlight

Lancaster Brain & Spine Broadens Its Care Offering a New Approach to Pelvic Floor Health by Sara Gurgen

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Williams’ interest in pelvic health grew from conversations with women in her life that were navigating fertility challenges, pregnancy and postpartum recovery. After researching pelvic health, she completed a clinical rotation in pelvic floor therapy during graduate school, followed by Level 1 and Level 2B pelvic floor training. She is currently working toward her Pelvis Pro certification.

ladder leakage, pelvic pain and discomfort during intercourse are often dismissed as inevitable results of childbirth or aging. Yet, these and other concerns may be addressed through pelvic floor therapy, a new service at Lancaster Brain & Spine Rehabilitation Center. The expansion reflects both the practice’s commitment to comprehensive care and its confidence in Erica Williams, a licensed and registered occupational therapist with specialized pelvic floor training. “It was as much about adding the right person as it was about adding pelvic floor therapy,” says founder and chiropractic neurologist Dr. Shayne N. Bushong. “After working with Erica during her externship and seeing how she connects with patients, her strong diagnostic and critical thinking skills, and her approach to therapy, I knew she was someone that could make our practice stronger.”

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“I began to realize how many aspects of women’s health are simply not talked about enough,” she recalls. “As I continued my pelvic health training and shared what I was learning with the women in my own life, I realized how many of us were unaware of this information or didn’t know that certain symptoms and conditions could even be addressed through therapy.” Pelvic floor therapy can address pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, urinary or bowel dysfunction, incontinence, urgency, constipation and pelvic pressure. It may also help with persistent hip, lower back or sacroiliac joint pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, and concerns elsewhere in the body may sometimes be connected to pelvic floor dysfunction. “As an occupational therapist, I take a whole-person approach by looking at posture, movement patterns, strength, breathing, daily habits and how different areas of the body work together,” Williams explains. “Dysfunction in one area can influence another, so understanding those connections allows us to look beyond an individual symptom and better understand what may be contributing to it.” Bushong sees the new service as a fitting extension for the practice. “It seemed like a natural next step, as we have grown the practice into a comprehensive functional neurology and musculoskeletal rehabilitation clinic that treats the whole person and specializes in complex cases. Adding pelvic floor therapy helps us address a critically important but frequently overlooked

neuromuscular and autonomic system that directly affects spinal stability, posture, chronic pain, continence and quality of life.” Although pelvic floor therapy is often associated with pregnancy and postpartum recovery, it may be beneficial during perimenopause and menopause, with aging, before or after certain surgeries, and for athletes experiencing leakage, pelvic pressure or pain. “Ultimately, there isn’t one specific age or stage of life when someone should consider pelvic floor therapy,” Williams emphasizes. “Our bodies are constantly changing, and pelvic floor health is an important part of overall health and function throughout the lifespan.” Care begins with an individualized evaluation that considers medical history, symptoms, movement, posture and how concerns affect daily activities. An internal examination may be offered to assess pelvic floor muscle function, but it is never required or forced. Williams discusses the process with patients, prioritizing consent and comfort. Many aspects of pelvic floor function can also be assessed and addressed externally. Treatment may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, breathing and movement strategies, postural training, and practical adjustments to everyday habits and activities. As symptoms change and patients progress toward their goals, the treatment plan evolves.

“Pelvic floor therapy is not about giving every patient the same exercises—it is about understanding the whole person and creating a treatment approach that helps them feel and function better in the activities that matter most to them,” Williams explains. She hopes greater awareness will encourage people to seek help rather than accept symptoms as an unavoidable part of life. Bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic pain and sexual concerns can feel uncomfortable to discuss, but treatment options are available. “One of the biggest things I want people to understand is that just because something is common does not mean it is normal,” Williams stresses. She notes that people may dismiss symptoms after hearing comments such as, “My mom told me that happens after having kids” or “I thought that was just part of getting older.” For those that feel embarrassed or uncertain about seeking care, Williams offers reassurance. Patients can share their concerns at their own pace and ask questions without fear of judgment. “You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. My job is to listen, help you better understand what you’re experiencing and work with you to determine what feels right for your care.” Lancaster Brain & Spine Rehabilitation Center is located at 221 Granite Run Dr., in Lancaster. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 717-299-9600 or visit LancasterBrainAnd Spine.com. See ads, pages 9, 35 and 50.

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Feature Story

Growing Our Capacity for Gratitude How to Practice Thankfulness Every Day by Megy Karydes

Serlena Bessonova/shutterstock

any practice into a consistent habit is neuroplasticity—the brain’s capacity to reorganize itself based on repetition.

ratitude comes in various forms. It can be stealthy (that sense of warmth when the sun breaks through after a gray week) or hard won (appreciating a short-tempered teenager). But researchers and practitioners agree that gratitude must be cultivated to become part of our daily routine.

“Gratitude as a passing feeling is spontaneous,” says Brendan Cournane, a certified professional development coach specializing in well-being and mindfulness, and author of Seeking Serenity: Finding Happiness by Embracing Your Present Attitude. “Anybody who practices mindfulness or meditation has moments of gratitude daily, even several times a day, but that’s not the same as developing a practice.” 28

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The distinction matters most, he emphasizes, during times when gratitude doesn’t come naturally, such as when we’re late for work, blindsided by an angry spouse or absorbing someone else’s bad day. “By developing gratitude as a practice and as a part of our lives, we allow ourselves to pause and acknowledge that no matter how challenging this moment is, there is something to be grateful for.”

Build New Pathways in the Brain

According to David R. Hamilton, Ph.D., a bestselling author and speaker on the science of kindness and well-being, whose newest book is The Joy of Actually Giving a F*ck: How Kindness Can Cure Stress and Make You Happy, the key to turning

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“Anything that is consistent can shape your brain networks and build a habit. That’s when a gratitude practice becomes a habit,” he explains, comparing the concept to cutting a new trail across a cornfield. “There’s already a path that’s been made. But suppose you decide to walk another path. Initially, that takes a little bit of work. But as you walk it daily, it becomes a habit. The old path begins to overgrow because the brain doesn’t want to waste energy.” Cournane observes a similar transformation in his coaching work: “We know through neuroplasticity that our brain waves can change, and by forming a gratitude practice, we can transform all of our circumstances into something more positive.” Hamilton and Cournane’s experiences align with research findings. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the einstein (São Paulo) journal, which analyzed 64 randomized clinical trials, found that gratitude interventions were associated with greater life satisfaction and significantly reduced anxiety and depression symptoms. The participants also reported more positive moods, greater optimism and less worry. Additional research summarized by the American Brain Foundation indicates that practicing

WHOLE-BODY HEALING

gratitude activates the brain’s reward system, reduces the amygdala’s stress reactivity and, with repeated practice, reorganizes neural pathways between neurons.

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Both experts agree that gratitude must be specific to truly resonate. “‘I’m grateful for my wife’ is too generic,” says Cournane. “Instead, ‘I’m grateful for my wife because we walked along the lakefront holding hands and enjoying the sunset’ is specific and activates more brain receptors.” Sensory details are key: “I see the sunset. I hear the wind and the waves along the shore. I feel her hand’s touch. I smell the air from the water or trees in the park.”

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Another powerful shift suggested by Cournane is saying, “I’m grateful my sister called when I felt overwhelmed and she reminded me I wasn’t alone,” instead of “I’m grateful for my family.” This specificity enhances the gratitude practice and its benefits.

Gratitude Is Not Forced Positivity

Neither Hamilton nor Cournane suggests that gratitude replaces grief or hardship. “When challenging things have happened, it’s like, ‘I’ve made it through this day. I managed to get out of bed this morning,’” says Hamilton. After his father’s death, his gratitude practice shifted. “I could remember all these great things about him, and that became something I could hold onto. We tend to only turn inside when we’re faced with difficulties and challenges in our life because there’s nothing else in the outside world that’s giving us any happiness. So all you’re left with is: ‘I’m still here.’” Cournane offers a psychological perspective on why gratitude helps during conflict or stress. “The brain cannot hold two opposite feelings or thoughts or emotions simultaneously. I can’t be angry and grateful at the same time,” he remarks, adding that seeking gratitude in difficult moments isn’t about denying the challenge. It’s about avoiding taking it out on the nearest person.

Thomas B. Wachtmann, DC

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Turn Thankfulness Into Action

Gratitude does not have to remain private, according to both practitioners. Hamilton points to research showing that people consistently misjudge the impact of a compliment. “We underestimate how grateful people would be if we paid them a compliment,” he says. “At the same time, we overestimate how much we think it will annoy them.” Voicing appreciation, he notes, can even have a physical effect: Connection triggers a release of oxytocin—the kindness hormone—that helps regulate blood pressure. Cournane shares a smaller, more recent example. When ordering a sandwich, the woman behind the counter said, “It looks like you’ve been working hard today, so you deserve a nice sandwich.” He returned the compliment and saw her face light up. “There’s a mutual respect, a mutual give-and-take that stimulates gratitude and other positive emotions within us,” he says. For families looking to build this habit together, Hamilton recommends a gratitude jar. Everyone writes what they’re thankful for on slips of paper throughout the year, then opens the jar on a meaningful date. This can become a very emotional bonding experience that the family may want to repeat every year.

Start Small, Stay Committed

Growing our capacity for gratitude requires practice. “Begin with 30 seconds or a minute, and soon half an hour or an hour will feel manageable,” counsels Cournane, who begins his daily gratitude practice by drinking a glass of water. “I appreciate having clean, fresh water, which not only is healthy for me but also reinforces the positive benefits I’m experiencing.” Psychologist Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., professor emeritus at the University of California, Davis, has dedicated much of his career to this field. In Gratitude Works!: A 21-Day Program for Creating Emotional Prosperity, he describes

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Stop guessing. Start knowing.

sustained practice as a journey toward emotional prosperity—not the absence of hardship, but an inner richness and resilience regardless of circumstances. When practiced consistently and with specificity, gratitude is more than a mood; it is an infrastructure built one small, repeatable moment at a time until it becomes a natural path, like a well-trodden trail across a field.

Habits Can Lead to Real Change

• The One-Memory Journal: Write three sentences about a specific moment of support, kindness or relief. • The Specific Thank-You: Clearly tell someone what they did and why it mattered. We underestimate how much it will mean to them. • The Gratitude Reframe. When stressed, ask, “What is still here to support me?” • The Gratitude-to-Behavior Step. Choose one thing to be grateful for and let it guide an action. This could be a text, a call, a note or a moment of patience. • Start Small. A daily and consistent practice, even if imperfect, is more effective than sporadic efforts. Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.

Conscious Eating

Healthy Swaps for the Holiday Table Thanksgiving Never Tasted So Good by Marlaina Donato Health Publishing, diet directly impacts mood and brain function through the gut-brain connection and inflammation regulation.

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The American Heart Association recommends using olive oil instead of butter, even in mashed potatoes; herbs and spices like rosemary and cloves instead of butter and salt; and whole-grain bread and pasta instead of white flour.

aking the Thanksgiving meal healthier does not mean sacrificing the flavor and traditions families and friends look forward to all year. Swapping in nutritious ingredients is an act of love, a way to care for the people gathered around the table while still honoring the dishes and memories that make the holiday meaningful. With a little planning, delicious culinary adjustments are simple to execute. Ingredient replacements should be viewed as a celebration of abundance rather than deprivation, as they add colors, herbs, textures and more energy after the meal. Ideas include blending cauliflower into mashed potatoes, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, brightening dishes with herbs and citrus zest instead of heavy gravies, adding crunchy greens and seasonal salads, and sweetening desserts with fruit, monk fruit, stevia or smaller amounts of honey or maple syrup.

Good Vibes and a Healthy Heart

A balanced holiday plate that combines lean protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates can support increased energy, mood, mental clarity and emotional regulation, especially during a time that can bring stress, along with joy. According to Harvard

Improving a Good Thing

“Food and recipes are meant to be adapted, and just because grandma made it one way doesn’t mean you can’t give it your own spin,” says Kathryn Doherty, in Charlotte, North Carolina, a recipe creator, cookbook author and founder of FamilyFoodOn TheTable.com. “I happily put my lightened-up twist on old favorites and find ways to adapt classic recipes to work for my family.” Jesse Lane Lee, from Toronto, a holistic nutritionist, corporate wellness educator, cookbook author and founder of JesseLaneWellness.com, has the perfect healthy replacement for a dish most Americans wouldn’t dream of forgoing. “Mashed cauliflower is much faster and easier to make than traditional mashed potatoes,” she explains. “If you aren’t a big fan of cauliflower, try swapping the sour cream you add to your mashed potatoes with plain Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds a satisfying tang, as well as extra protein.” Sara Tercero, from Massachusetts, a plant-based chef, cookbook author and founder of BetterFoodGuru.com, welcomes the opportunity to surprise and delight guests with flavorful substitutions, noting, “These switches can shave off hundreds of calories and make meals more balanced, while barely changing a recipe’s taste or texture.” She relies on spices and vinegars to bring out the flavor of vegetables, helping them take center stage at the holiday table. Stuffing made with gluten-free grains and brown lentils can be November 2026

surprisingly delicious without the carb crash of a traditional bread-based recipe. Instead of calorie-laden mac and cheese, add puréed butternut squash to high-protein or whole wheat pasta for a delightful, nutrient-rich twist. And a buttery, white flour-thickened gravy pales in comparison to a creamy sauce made with roasted carrots, parsnips, onions and celery blended in a low-sodium broth with sage, thyme and black pepper.

Dessert Reimagined

Topping a sweet potato casserole with a nut streusel instead of marshmallows is one of Doherty’s holiday favorites. By combining chopped pecans with a touch of butter, modest amounts of brown sugar and cinnamon, she is able to replace the empty calories of the traditional topping with healthy fats and antioxidants while also adding satisfying texture and complexity to the dish. Doherty is also strategic about her homemade cranberry sauce. “Adding fresh orange juice and some honey helps add sweetness and flavor and allows you to use less granulated sugar. Start small, taste as you go and see how much sugar you really need,” she advises, adding that honey or naturally sweet fruit such as bananas or dates are healthier choices for desserts. Pure maple syrup is Tercero’s go-to sweetener. “I also like to add in something that will make the dessert moist, like apple sauce or tahini, because it gives more depth of flavor than oil and sugar,” she says, noting that chia or flax seeds with water (instead of eggs) and avocado (instead of butter or shortening) can also keep vegan baked goods moist and fluffy while adding nutrition. Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.

MAPLE BALSAMIC BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH HONEYNUT SQUASH AND WALNUTS YIELD: 6 SERVINGS 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, halved 2 honeynut squash peeled, seeded and cut into bite-size pieces 1 cup walnuts 4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp salt ½ tsp garlic powder Preheat the oven to 400° F. To a large sheet pan add the Brussels sprouts and honeynut squash. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and garlic powder. Mix well by hand until all the veggies are coated, and spread them out into a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes.

YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS Courtesy of Jesse Lane Lee

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets 2 cloves of garlic 2 Tbsp olive oil ¼ tsp sea salt black pepper to taste

Take the sheet pan out of the oven, add the walnuts and baste the veggies and nuts with the balsamic vinegar and pure maple syrup. With a spatula, carefully mix until all the veggies are coated with the sweet maple and tangy vinegar. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes.

Steam the cauliflower and garlic for 8 to 10 minutes until soft.

Transfer the cooked veggies and nuts to a serving platter and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best quality.

Transfer to a food processor with olive oil, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Tercero and BetterFoodGuru.com.

Recipe courtesy of Jesse Lane Lee and JesseLaneWellness.com. 32

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Courtesy of Sara Tercero

GARLIC CAULIFLOWER MASH

POMEGRANATE AND LENTIL SALAD YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

1 bunch kale, stemmed and chopped 2 cups red cabbage, chopped 1 cup pecans, chopped ½ cup dried cranberries 2 apples, chopped 5 mint leaves, chopped 1 cup pomegranate arils 1 delicata squash cut in half moons 2½ cups cooked lentils, canned or homemade

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 pinch salt black pepper, optional FOR DRESSING

PECAN APPLE CRISP

4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 4 prunes 1 pinch salt 1 tsp pure maple syrup 5 mint leaves

YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS FOR FILLING 4 cups thinly sliced apples, 3 to 4 apples ½ lemon, juiced 2 Tbsp maple syrup ¼ cup almond flour 1 tsp cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 400° F. On a sheet pan, place the delicata squash and cooked lentils. Drizzle with olive oil and salt, and cook for 30 minutes until the squash is tender and lentils are crispy.

FOR TOPPING

Make the dressing by combining the oil, vinegar, prunes, salt and maple in a blender. Blend until smooth. To a large bowl add the kale, a drizzle of oil and pinch of salt. Massage the kale until tender. Add to the kale: cabbage, pecans, roasted delicata and crispy lentils, apples, cranberries, mint, and pomegranate arils. Pour the dressing over the top and toss well. Enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best quality.

1 cup oats ½ cup chopped raw pecans ¼ cup almond flour ¼ cup coconut oil, softened 3 Tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp vanilla Preheat the oven to 350° F. Place the sliced apples in a bowl and toss with lemon juice and maple syrup. Add the almond flour and cinnamon, and toss once more.

Recipe courtesy of Sara Tercero and BetterFoodGuru.com.

Mix all the topping ingredients together in a separate bowl and set aside. Place the filling into a baking dish and top with the topping.

Courtesy of Sara Tercero

Bake for 30 minutes until the apples have softened and the juices have released. Courtesy of Jesse Lane Lee

FOR SALAD

Remove from the oven and serve with whipped cream, à la mode or with Greek yogurt. Recipe courtesy of Jesse Lane Lee and JesseLaneWellness.com.

November 2026

Fit Body

Building Strength for Life Why Resistance Training Is a Key to Aging Well by Brian Stenzler, MSc., DC, FCCA, FICA

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crunches and sit-ups with functional movements that are both safer and more effective at targeting core strength. These include engaging the core while lifting weights, and doing pull-ups, push-ups and balance poses. A simple exercise is to hold a light weight at chest height, slowly extend the arms forward and then bring the weight back to the chest. Keep the core muscles tightened to prevent the back from arching as the arms extend.

trength training is essential for everyone, not just athletes and bodybuilders. Regardless of age— from 25 to 75—the body has a remarkable capacity to become stronger. Research confirms that resistance exercise reduces the risk of many chronic conditions and becomes more important with age as muscle mass naturally declines. In older adults, maintaining strength supports independence while minimizing the risk of falls and fractures. Resistance can come from bodyweight exercises, bands, free weights or machines, with adaptations for all ages and fitness levels. In addition to building muscle, regular strength training improves bone density, supports metabolic and cardiovascular

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health, enhances balance and mobility, and contributes to better cognitive function and emotional well-being. By promoting a stronger and more stable neuromusculoskeletal system, resistance training enables the body to better handle physical stressors, reducing excessive strain on the spine and joints, and supporting biomechanics and optimal nervous system function.

Protect the Spine and Bones

Muscle and bone health are interconnected, so strength training must adapt to changes in bone density. Debra Atkinson, a fitness educator and founder of Flipping 50, states, “The exercises that seemed harmless in your 30s carry a higher risk profile in your 50s.” Because bone density loss often begins in the spine, she recommends replacing

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The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation advises those with osteoporosis to maintain an upright posture, spinal extension and core stability during strength training, while avoiding repeated forward bending that can harm spinal integrity.

Employ the Correct Movements Heavier weights do not always yield better results. Effective training prioritizes movement quality over load, focusing on neutral spinal alignment, controlled movement, proper breathing and core stability. Progressive overload, which involves gradually increasing resistance as the body adapts, enables muscles, bones and connective tissues to build strength and endurance without unnecessary strain. Dr. Peter A. Gratale, founder of Energy Chiropractic & Pilates, in New Jersey, and former co-host of ESPN’s BodyShaping, believes that one of the most valuable uses of chiropractic by athletes and workout enthusiasts is performance enhancement.

Because efficient movement and function depend on coordinated communication between the nervous system and the body’s other systems, Gratale advocates for a whole-body training approach. Restrictions in spinal or joint motion, muscular imbalances and asymmetrical movement patterns can disrupt efficient movement and lead to compensation. Optimal performance requires more than just muscle strength; it involves mobility, breathing mechanics, core stability, coordinated muscle activation and cardiovascular function, all of which influence the body’s response to exercise.

Strategically Restart Exercise After Injury

Injuries can disrupt strength-training routines. While it is essential to allow the body to heal, returning to training after injury involves more than just waiting for pain to subside. Dr. Ronald Torrance II, a board-certified sports medicine physician at New Regeneration Orthopedics, in Florida, states, “Many patients stop exercising after an injury because pain and

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He explains, “Chiropractic is the bullseye on the target of a well-conceived training program that includes core strengthening, strength training, high-intensity interval training and self-myofascial release [the use of gentle, sustained pressure to relieve tension in connective tissues].”

protective movement patterns create a cycle of de-conditioning, compensation and fear of re-injury. Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization and progressive functional movement training interrupt that cycle by first rebuilding the nervous system’s control of posture and stability, then layering strength onto those corrected movement patterns.” Instead of resting until an injury feels better or diving back into unrestricted exercise, functional training progressively reinforces improved movement patterns with squatting, hinging, pushing, pulling, carrying and rotating exercises. When conservative care has plateaued, but surgery is not yet necessary, regenerative and interventional orthopedics may offer additional options for suitable patients. “The goal is not simply pain reduction; it is creating a more favorable biologic environment so that progressive strength and movement training can resume productively,” explains Torrance.

Image-guided orthobiologic procedures may use a patient’s own biologic agents, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or bone marrow concentrate (BMAC) to promote the healing of affected areas. Research is ongoing, with evidence supporting reduced pain and improved function for certain conditions, especially PRP for knee osteoarthritis, while evidence for BMAC and other applications is limited. For selected patients, these treatments may provide another option before surgery, reflecting a philosophy of using the least invasive approach to restore function and support a safe return to strength training

Get Started

Focus on proper form and gradual progression over lifting heavy weights too soon. Beginners and those returning after injury should allow adequate recovery, differentiate between normal muscle fatigue and pain indicating injury, and consult qualified professionals if health conditions or previous injuries exist. Whether starting with resistance bands at 70 or lifting a barbell for the first time at 35, building strength preserves mobility, independence and quality of life for years. Dr. Brian Stenzler is vice president of operations and chief health officer for KnoWEwell and the Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.

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Healing Ways

Read Food Labels Mindfully

The Prediabetes Wake-Up Call Lifestyle Changes To Keep Diabetes at Bay by Leslie K. Hughes trial showed that the Diabetes Prevention Program, involving lifestyle changes in diet and exercise, as well as modest weight loss, could effectively reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent, outperforming medication alone.

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Build a Balanced Plate

prediabetes diagnosis can feel daunting, but many health experts describe it as an opportunity for positive change. The diagnosis indicates blood sugar levels are higher than normal but have not yet reached the diabetes range, which means the body is still highly responsive to healthful modifications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than two in five adult Americans are living with prediabetes, about 80 percent of whom are unaware of their condition. A landmark clinical 36

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For many, the journey to diabetes prevention begins with dietary adjustments, not by restriction, as commonly thought, but by the adoption of better food pairings. Hillary Wright, a registered dietitian and director of nutrition at the Wellness Center at Boston IVF, in Massachusetts, recommends a “balanced plate” of one quarter lean protein such as seafood, poultry or tofu; one quarter fiber-rich carbohydrates like brown rice, quinoa or sweet potato; and the remaining half filled with colorful vegetables. “Pairing carbohydrate-containing foods like rice or pasta with a source of lean protein increases the feeling of fullness a meal or snack provides and complicates the absorption of glucose into the blood, resulting in gentler blood glucose swings after meals,” she explains. The order of food consumption also plays a role, although Wright emphasizes the importance of making mealtime enjoyable rather than mechanical. While there is evidence that eating vegetables and protein before carbohydrates can be beneficial, the goal is to establish a sustainable habit rather than adhering to a rigid rule.

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Dr. Rebecca Hunton, medical director of Radiantly Healthy MD, a functional medicine clinic in Indialantic, Florida, developed a shortcut for evaluating packaged foods: subtract the grams of fiber, fat and protein from total carbohydrates. A result of 10 or less indicates a gentler effect on blood sugar and insulin levels, while higher numbers tend to cause spikes in both. “What I am really asking is whether the carbohydrate is arriving mostly by itself, or arriving buffered, slowed down by fiber, protein and fat,” she remarks, adding that finely milled whole grains often digest almost like flour, making the fiber count alone potentially misleading. For protein quality, Hunton offers a second shortcut: multiply grams of protein by 10 and compare that number to total calories. If it matches or exceeds the calories, the food is relatively protein dense, a useful check when comparing yogurts, protein bars or prepared foods.

Consider the Whole Body

Prediabetes serves as a signal from the entire body, not merely an isolated blood sugar anomaly, both experts agree. Hunton notes that insulin resistance often develops before lab values shift, and unexplained weight gain is frequently the first clue. Hormonal changes, including those associated with perimenopause, can accelerate this transition. “Women frequently blame menopause for how they feel without realizing that what is happening is a cardiovascular and blood sugar change,” she says. Muscle mass also plays a pivotal role. Resistance training and regular physical activity, ranging from brisk walks to yard work, help the body regulate blood sugar levels.

Use Data as a Learning Tool

Wright holds mixed feelings about the use of continuous glucose monitors before a diabetes diagnosis, as there is insufficient evidence to define a normal pattern in prediabetes, and watching the data closely can inadvertently induce stress. “If wearing

a monitor feels like it’s creating too much anxiety around eating, it’s a good indication to stop,” she advises. A more effective approach, she suggests, is to wear a monitor for just two to four weeks, supervised by a physician or registered dietitian that can help interpret the results.

Don’t guess when it comes to YOUR health.

Hunton uses monitors earlier and more frequently, turning nutrition from guesswork into personal data, and comparing the impact of meals, sleep and physical activity on the glucose curve. Still, she agrees with the underlying philosophy: the goal is to understand, not surveil or judge.

Our goal is to find the ROOT CAUSE of your symptoms, not cover them up.

Both experts raise a similar caution regarding food tracking, acknowledging that while it can build awareness, it should be approached with caution or avoided altogether by individuals with a history of disordered eating, which is defined by the National Eating Disorders Association as “a spectrum of problematic eating behaviors and distorted attitudes towards food, weight, shape and appearance.”

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Build Momentum With Modest Adjustments

According to Hunton, change does not have to be instantaneous to be meaningful. The body’s patterns take time to rewrite, and consistency matters more than speed. Patience coupled with practical tools like balanced plates, label reading, shortcuts and a willingness to observe personal patterns without judgment, is what makes prediabetes reversible for so many. Anyone navigating a new prediabetes diagnosis is encouraged to work with a physician, registered dietitian or certified specialist in diabetes care and education because individual glucose responses vary. With the right support, prediabetes transforms from a cause for fear into a window to choose a different course of action.

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Green Living

How Trees J Make Rain

ust as Peter Wohlleben’s The Hidden Life of Trees opened our eyes to how trees communicate beneath the soil, emerging science reveals an equally wondrous phenomenon above the canopy: Trees help make their own rain. We often picture forests as passive entities waiting for the next storm. In reality, a forest acts like a living fountain. Trees pull water up through their roots and release it as vapor through tiny openings in their leaves in a process called transpiration. A single mature tree can release hundreds of liters of water into the air daily. When millions of trees transpire together, they do more than provide shade—they feed the clouds, cool the land and send rain across continents.

The Wonder of Forests and Weather by Sandi Schwartz

How Trees Feed the Clouds

For decades, basic meteorology taught that ocean evaporation drives almost all rainfall over land. But UCLA atmospheric scientist Dr. Rong Fu, recipient of the American Meteorological Society’s 2027 Carl-Gustaf Rossby Research Medal, has proven that trees play a direct, active role in initiating rainy seasons. In fact, her work has fundamentally changed how we understand Earth’s climate system and the processes that influence water, weather and climate extremes. Fu and her team observed atmospheric water vapor over the Amazon rainforest and discovered that oceanic vapor is lighter because heavy hydrogen isotopes (deuterium) stay behind during marine evaporation. The vapor hovering over the forest, however, contains high levels of deuterium, which indicates that it came directly from plant transpiration, not the ocean.

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“I am convinced that it’s the rainforest that initiates rainfall,” Fu explains. “The rain starts increasing before moisture transport coming from the ocean increases. In order to have moisture transport from the ocean, you have to have plants transpire first.” As plants grow, photosynthesis transpires more water vapor and then the air becomes moist, she notes. “Therefore, you have more clouds, and you get more rainfall.”

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A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reinforces this finding, showing that Amazon trees rapidly recycle rain from shallow soil during dry periods, pumping up to 70 percent of local rainfall back into the atmosphere when the ecosystem needs it most.

The Biotic Pump: A Natural Rainmaking Engine

This continuous moisture recycling connects directly to an intriguing concept known as the biotic pump theory. Proposed

in 2007 in Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, by Russian atmospheric physicists Dr. Anastassia Makarieva and the late Dr. Victor Gorshkov, the theory suggests that forests do not merely catch rain through their leaves and the soil beneath, but they also create a physical engine that draws moist air inland from oceans thousands of miles away.

For Featherstone, restoring these living rain systems requires a shift in human perspective. “Having a green thumb is a misnomer, because it’s actually a green heart that we need,” he says. “We have to become the givers, where we give back more than we take from nature. That’s what rewilding is all about: giving back space, giving back life and giving back love.”

As dense forest canopies release massive quantities of water vapor, the condensation of that moisture causes pressure to drop in the atmosphere. These pressure changes act as a giant vacuum, pulling moist ocean air across the land.

Ways to Support the Water Cycle

While the theory remains an active topic of scientific study and debate regarding how it compares to the influence of largescale winds on rainfall, it offers a compelling explanation for a long-standing mystery: Why forested continental interiors remain lush and wet while non-forested inland regions form arid deserts.

Every tree planted helps strengthen local climate resilience, notes Fu. “When you plant trees, you improve the microclimate. It’s cooler and more humid. And for the tropical rainforests, there are many things we can do to protect them,” she says. Here is how to support forests and the natural water cycle in local communities and beyond: • Plant native trees. Choose species suited to the local climate that support native birds, pollinators and soil health.

Cultivating a ‘Green Heart’ to Protect Forests

Forests provide so much more than scenery. They play an active role in the water cycle. Healthy forests help keep watersheds, soil and local climates more stable. Understanding forests as climate drivers highlights why protecting mature trees and restoring native woodlands is an investment in global water and food security. Disruption to rainforests threatens agriculture, altering weather patterns that farms and communities rely on. Alan Watson Featherstone, ecologist, nature photographer, inspirational speaker and founder of the Scottish conservation charity Trees for Life, has spent more than three decades restoring the ancient Caledonian Forest in the Scottish Highlands. “Nature is the real home for me and for humanity,” says Featherstone. “I feel a sense of peace there and I feel a sense of joy when I encounter creatures or special trees or plants.”

• Protect mature canopies. Established large trees move much more water than saplings do. • Support local conservancies. Volunteer at community tree planting events and park restoration programs. • Choose sustainable wood. Reduce demand for forest timber by buying certified wood or pre-owned furniture. By viewing trees as quiet partners in our survival, we can better appreciate how planting a tree today helps feed the clouds of tomorrow. Sandi Schwartz is a freelance journalist specializing in environmental and wellness topics, as well as author of Finding Ecohappiness. Learn more at SandiSchwartz.com.

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Healthy Kids

Helping Children Navigate Loss Gentle Grief Activities for Young Hearts by Christina Connors

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professor emerita at Lesley University, has researched and written about how young children use creative play to make sense of potentially overwhelming events, reduce anxiety and cope with trauma. Activities like building a memory box, listening to a story or singing a song allows them to begin to experience grief or trauma even before they have the words to name it. Connection can come before conversation.

t is said that grief is love with nowhere to go—a hard truth for adults to sit with and an even harder one for a child. While youngsters grieve the passing of a loved one, they also experience intense emotions if they change schools, move to another home, say goodbye to a best friend or even if they have to change a familiar routine. Parents often want to fix the sadness or rush kids past it, but a better choice is to give them the tools to hold both sadness and love. “Children grieve very differently than adults,” says Geralyn Cappabianca, a board-certified chaplain, teacher and author of Memoirs of a Hospital Chaplain. “Their emotional and cognitive

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development is not mature enough to process the intense feelings that grief brings. Many times, it is years later when they can emotionally grieve the loss.” At 14, Cappabianca lost her father, and her family sold their home and moved to another country, forcing her to leave her friends, extended family and school. “Whatever the type of loss, whether it’s the loss of a person, a move, loss of a pet or changing schools, the grief process is the same,” she believes. Child development experts have observed that youngsters process fear, loss and confusion far more naturally with play and hands-on activities than with conversation alone. Dr. Nancy Carlsson-Paige, an early-childhood development expert and

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The Gratitude Memory Box

Creating a gratitude memory box is a simple, tangible way to honor a beloved person, pet, place or chapter of life. To make one, choose a container such as a shoebox, small wooden chest or tin container and invite the child to decorate it with paint, stickers or drawings. Gather meaningful items like photos, toys, leaves or dried flowers, a collar or pet tag, and handwritten recollections. For parents worried about pushing a child before they are ready, Cappabianca advises that they take cues from the child. A parent may want to build their own memory box first, and then invite the child to help. “Children learn how to grieve from watching those around them,” she notes. According to Cappabianca, a memory box allows children to begin grieving early and safely. It provides a creative outlet for kids to express their emotions, validating their grief, even if the loss feels small to an adult. It teaches the child that love and

gratitude can coexist alongside sadness. The memory box provides the child with a private space to revisit memories whenever they want. The family may choose to gather together in a shared ritual to add items to the box, sit quietly together or talk about memories associated with the contents of the box.

The Power of Song and Stories

Sometimes, direct questions about the loss—such as “Are you sad?” or “Do you want to talk about it?”—are hard for a child to answer. That is the thinking behind The Healing Chickadee (HealingChickadee.com), a program built around a plush bird, music and story, co-founded by Terry Murphy. “The child doesn’t necessarily have to sit across from an adult and answer questions about grief,” she writes. “Instead, they can cuddle the chickadee, talk about the bird, tell a story about it or simply sit quietly with it.”

that needs to be immediately fixed or pushed away.” Another Friedman song, Help Is on the Way, is built around reassurance and hope. Together, Murphy says, the two songs offer a grieving child the message that “It is okay to be sad, and you don’t have to face that sadness alone.” ck rsto utte s/sh ic h p agra pict

Starting the Conversation

A trusted adult might invite the child outside to look for a real chickadee together, and in that shared, side-by-side activity, something unexpected may happen. “While looking for birds, a child might begin talking about the person they miss,” Murphy notes, although she’s careful to add, “All of those responses can be okay,” including not talking about the loss at all.

Invite, rather than force, the conversation. Try open-ended questions like: What do you want to remember most? What would you like to say thank-you for? What do you think the bird in the story is feeling? Would you rather draw this memory or listen to a song about it instead of talking? A memory box, story or song will not take away a child’s grief, but each can give them somewhere to put it and something to hold onto while they carry it.

Music can play a similar role. Murphy points to David Friedman’s song It’s Not Bad to Be Sad as one that “gives sadness a place rather than treating it as something

Christina Connors is a professional singer, a burnout prevention specialist, and CEO and executive director of Soulful Forest, Inc. Learn more at SoulfulForestInc.org.

When the Holidays Feel Different, Support Is Here.

The holidays can be especially difficult when grieving, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Scan the QR code to discover support groups, remembrance opportunities and creative workshops where you can connect with others who understand.

You don’t have to carry it alone

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When stress, exhaustion, or loss leave you feeling disconnected, healing begins with compassion and understanding. Our highly trained, trauma-informed therapists offer personalized care for anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and more—along with equine and animal-assisted therapy that restores calm and confidence through connection.

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717-917-7137 November 2026

Natural Pet

Safe Havens for Happy Dogs and Cats Designing a Stress-Free Space for Our Pets by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN synchronized in dogs and their owners. And a 2015 study in PLOS ONE involving 1,508 dog owners found that dogs of emotionally distant owners were more likely to exhibit separation-related disorder, showing severe distress when left alone.

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Marlene Siegel, an integrative veterinarian and owner of Pasco Veterinary Medical Center, in Florida, views this mirroring as information rather than a reason to assign blame. On the Healing Tails podcast, she explained that pets are “showing us something that we need to learn,” and that it is up to us to pay attention, become aware of it and “shift the energy.”

magine the relief of stepping through the front door after a long day, taking a deep breath and feeling the weight of the world lift. For humans, home is a sanctuary, but for pets, it is their entire universe. The constant noise, unpredictable schedules and lack of control over daily routines can leave dogs and cats feeling overwhelmed. Because pets rely so completely on the humans around them, a household’s atmosphere tends to become their anchor. Therefore, pet wellness often begins by creating a calm, appreciative environment.

Pets Absorb Their Caregivers’ Stress

Companion animals are highly sensitive to the emotional currents inside a home, often acting like mirrors, reflecting the vibe of their surroundings. A 2019 study published in Scientific Reports measured cortisol, a stress hormone, in the hair of 58 dog and owner pairs. The results show that long-term stress levels are 42

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A 2026 article in Biological Reviews notes that city dogs face chronic stress because their environments and routines are overwhelming. Living in busy urban areas can overstimulate a dog’s senses, and because they rely entirely on humans, they rarely get to make their own choices. This affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis—the body’s main stress alarm system. In normal settings, the alarm turns on during danger and turns off when the danger passes. But for these dogs, the alarm never shuts off, causing cumulative damage to their physical health and changes in behavior. Emotional distress can also affect a pet’s appetite. For example, a senior, mixed-breed dog stopped eating from his bowl, even avoiding his favorite foods, months after his longtime canine companion passed away. Bloodwork indicated a physical issue requiring its own investigation, but the fear at the bowl was something tests alone could not explain. Offering food wherever he felt safe, before adding supplements, helped stabilize him within days.

Practical Steps to Create a Calmer Home

A supportive home is built on appreciation, where caregivers strive to understand a pet’s instincts, rather than expecting the animal to navigate a human world unguided. A 2021 study from University of California, Davis, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, found that dogs displayed signs of fear in response to household sounds, especially high-pitched beeps like smoke-detector chirps, while owners responded with amusement in about 46 percent

of the videos analyzed. A 2023 study in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that cat owners with misconceptions about feline behavior were more likely to respond with yelling, hitting or water sprays. Because the stress levels of pets and their caregivers tend to synchronize, quiet shared moments such as mindful petting offer a calmer counterpoint to a busy day. Siegel suggests a simple routine: “Put yourself in a state of gratitude every morning, midday and every night.” The moments do not need to be grand. “You open your eyes and you may see the sun coming through. You may hear birds chirping.” She believes the shift reaches pets too: “You’re going to reset them while you reset yourself.” Establishing a safe haven, such as a quiet corner away from foot traffic and appliances, provides a pet with a place to retreat. Small, safe choices—like choosing which bed to sleep on—can restore a sense of autonomy. Sniffing walks suit many dogs; vertical space and separate litter boxes suit many cats.

A calm, appreciative home supports behavioral well-being, but does not replace veterinary care. Sudden behavior changes, such as a spike in aggression or a loss of appetite, can signal a physical issue that requires prompt veterinary evaluation. Siegel’s rule of thumb is “Test, don’t guess.” Creating a calm household does not require perfection every day. Noticing how an owner’s presence and emotional energy ripple outward to their animals is a meaningful start. Note also that emotional support is a two-way street. An analysis of 1,421 primary caregivers in the peer-reviewed journal Anthrozoös found that as family conflicts rose, so did people’s attachment to the family pet, suggesting that animals offer comfort to humans during hard times. The connection is mutual.

NOVEMBER ONLINE EXCLUSIVES > Find additional articles and videos at NALancaster.com or NABerks.com. Go to the home page and click on the “In This Issue” image in the top carousel or in the right colum.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH HOLISTIC SHOPPING

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic pet health coach. Learn about The Original CrockPet Diet and her coach certification program at DrRuthRoberts.com.

A GENTLE GOODBYE, IN THE COMFORT OF HOME In-home hospice and euthanasia care for beloved pets.

How Do You Know When It's Time?

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BLUEPRINT FOR ALZHEIMER’S PREVENTION

When your pet is experiencing more difficult days than good ones, it may be time to consider whether their quality of life is changing.

Inspiration YOU DON'T HAVE TO MAKE THIS DECISION ALONE. We can help you assess your pet's comfort and quality of life and talk through your options. e T i ll W

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Helping pets and the people who love them find comfort, peace and dignity at home.

NOVEMBER’S CALL FOR INTROSPECTION More Health Briefs & Global Briefs November 2026

Homeopathy

Homeopathy Myths Refuting the Most Common Misconceptions by Christina Donka, CCH Myth: Homeopathy is just another name for herbal medicine. Homeopathic remedies come from natural sources, including plants and minerals. While an herbal tincture relies on measurable amounts of a plant or plants, a homeopathy remedy follows homeopathic principles and is prepared through a specific process of dilution and vigorous shaking. Myth: The pellets are nothing but sugar. Most homeopathic remedies come in the form of a tiny sugar pellet that dissolves under the tongue; this is simply the carrier. During manufacturing, the pellet is infused with the prepared homeopathic remedy.

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Myth: Nobody regulates these products. Under U.S. federal law, homeopathic remedies are classified as drugs, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration oversees their manufacture, marketing and sale. Myth: More is better. The opposite is true. The “minimum dose” principle dictates taking only enough of a remedy to spark a healing response. If

symptoms return, then the dose can be repeated, although it is best to check with a homeopathic practitioner. Myth: Homeopathy is only good for the sniffles. Colds, flu, sore throats, earaches, bumps and bruises are where most families begin, and that’s where a homeopathy home kit really shines. But homeopathy goes well beyond first aid. Myth: There is no research behind homeopathy. Thousands of studies on homeopathy have been published in medical journals, including clinical trials and laboratory research into the biological activity of highly diluted substances. This article is based on information in HomeopathyCenter.org. Christina Donka is executive director of the National Center for Homeopathy, providing education, resources and advocacy since 1974. To read an expanded version, visit TinyURL.com/ HomeopathyMythsNA or scan the QR code. Underwritten by Grato Health, in operation since 1987, dedicated to advancing health and wellness through natural, holistic solutions that support the body's ability to heal.

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Wednesday, November 18

Calendar of Events

Sunday, November 1 Good Food Fest 11am-4pm More than 100 regional farmers and food producers gather for this celebration of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s local food and agriculture, with culinary demonstrations, local breweries, cideries and distilleries, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and farm animals. $10; children under 12 are free. Kimberton Fairgrounds, 762 Pike Springs Rd, Phoenixville. GoodFarmsGoodFood.com.

Tuesday, November 3 Women’s Intro “Writing Without Fear” – 6:30-8:30pm via Zoom. Thru 12/8 (no class 12/1). A wonderfully unconventional workshop where we share ourselves and our ideas without stress, learn to dodge perfectionism, and delight in the moment. Beginners welcome. Sharing optional. Registration required. Write From the Heart, Lancaster. 717-393-4713. WriteFromThe Heart.us.

Wednesday, November 4 Cooking Class: Duck at a Steakhouse – 6-8pm. Ages 21+. Explore techniques used in fine dining kitchens. Build confidence preparing an elegant multi-course meal while learning professional methods, plating tips and flavor pairings that showcase the best of autumn. Hands on. Registration required. $110. Zest Cooking School, 35 S Willowdale Dr, Lancaster. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Friday, November 6 Drum Circle – 4-5pm. When people drum together, hearts connect, energy is moved through group intention and the drum becomes a tool of mindfulness meditation. No experience necessary. $10 minimum donation. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation. org/calendar.

Saturday, November 7 Cooking Class: Pennsylvania Dutch Baking Traditions – 10am-12pm. Ages 16+. Learn time-honored techniques and cherished recipes that have been passed down through generations. Hands on. Registration Required. $100. Zest Cooking School, 35 S Willowdale Dr, Lancaster. 717-4358890. ZestChef.com.

Wednesday, November 11 Introduction to the Fundamentals of the Art and Science of Sound Healing – 9:30am-5pm. Open to anyone interested in learning about sound therapy. Required for anyone enrolling in Soundwise School

1/2027. Lecture and hands-on introduction to using metal and crystal bowls. All materials are provided. $250. Soundwise Health Studio, 313 W Liberty St, Ste 263, Lancaster. 610-301-4356. SoundwiseHealth.com. Cooking Class: Pumpkin Spice Patisserie – 6-8pm. Ages 16+. Celebrate the flavors of fall and learn professional pastry techniques while creating a stunning seasonal dessert featuring warm spices, rich caramel and light, delicate fillings. Hands on. Registration required. $100. Zest Cooking School, 35 S Willowdale Dr, Lancaster. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Friday, November 13 Sound Bath – 6-7:30pm. Relax and restore with crystal bowls, gongs, chimes, drums, breathwork and guided meditation. All levels welcome. Bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow or bolster. $35. Registration required. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. TheNestCollaborative.com. Women’s Group: Dream Interpretation – 6:30-8pm. For those that identify as women, ages 18+. Enjoy an evening of community and sharing if you feel called to do so. Chairs, blankets and mats are available for your comfort. Check your email for an invitation to bring something. Pricing on a sliding scale. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

Saturday, November 14 Cooking Class: Festive Brunch – 10am12pm. Ages 21+. Learn to prepare a memorable brunch full of autumnal favorites that’s perfect for celebrating the season. Hands on. Registration required. $100. Zest Cooking School, 35 S Willowdale Dr, Lancaster. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com. WellBeing West Reading – 10am-2pm. Explore movement, yoga, qigong, meditation, sound and more through short demonstrations and mini practices. Meet local wellness and community partners, enjoy light refreshments, enter raffles and shop Nest merchandise. Free and open to everyone. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. TheNestCollaborative.com. Farm Dinner Series – 3-7pm. Graze and delight in a Sacred Harvest with delicious and nourishing vegan food, delightful community and inspiring music. $88 per person. Reservations required. Kula Kamala Yoga Ashram, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. 484-5095073 ext 1. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Tuesday, November 17 GRASP (Grief Recovery After Substance Passing) – 6:30-8pm. Every 3rd Tuesday. A support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to substance use. Lancaster County location details will be shared during registration. For more information or to register(required), contact Marj Paradise at 717-951-2720 or MParadise810@ comcast.net.

Therapeutic Sound Within the Medical Community – 11am-5pm. An introduction to preparing the sound practitioner for finding and working with opportunities within the allopathic medical field. Learn how to determine the best approach in working with a variety of patient needs, including hospice and support groups. Prior completion of basic sound therapy course required. Soundwise Health Studio, 313 W Liberty St, Ste 263, Lancaster. 610-301-4356. SoundwiseHealth.com. Somatic Singing Circle – 7–8 p.m. Every 3rd Wednesday. ResonateYou faciliatates singing and sound as a somatic practice, inviting participants to connect with their voices and bodies. Registration required. $20. New location: Shivaya Healing Arts Wellness Studio, 26 N Cedar St, Ste. 103, Lititz. 917-664-5909. ResonateYou.com.

Friday, November 20 Save Woods & Water Party – 5-9pm. Celebrate local wild lands and learn more about protecting forests, meadows and streams at this free event, held during ExtraGive, Lancaster County’s annual day of giving. Donations to Lancaster Conservancy are encouraged. LUCA, 436 W James St, Lancaster. 717-392-7891, LancasterConservancy. org/extragive. Sound Healing with Abby – 6-7:15pm. Every 3rd Friday. Relax in comfortable clothes to the sound of singing bowls, wind chimes and voice. $25. Register online. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave, Willow Street. Willow YogaStudio.com.

Saturday, November 28 Parent and Child Cooking Class: Fresh Gingerbread House Workshop – 11:30am1:30pm. Ages 5+. Using fresh gingerbread pieces, Chef Joseph Renfroe will guide you through assembly and decorating, while sharing creative tips and techniques to make each house uniquely magical. Hands on. Registration required. $175 per parent and child. Zest Cooking School, 35 S Willowdale Dr, Lancaster. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com. Advanced YTT Info Session – 1-2pm. Learn about Willow Yoga Studio’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training offered January 20207-February 2028 which includes one training weekend per month, monthly Tuesday evening Zoom support, a summer break in July and unlimited yoga access during the program. 25 Nolt Ave, Willow Street. WillowYogaStudio.com.

Plan Ahead Saturday, December 5 First Saturday – 9am-8pm. Join us for a full day of offerings. Pick and choose what classes you’d like to attend with everything from Yoga and good food to fire ceremonies and informational workshops. By donation. Kula Kamala Foundation. 17 Basket Rd, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamala Foundation.org.

November 2026

Inner Peace Holistic Expo & Holiday Market – 10am-5pm. Free hot chocolate, free holiday crafts, unique gifts & homemade goods, jewelry, crystals, Santa + more. First 150 guests admitted free (ticket guidelines apply). Admission: $8 online, $10 at the door. Free admission for kids 12 & under, veterans & first responders. VIP $20 includes 9am entry, free specialty coffee and acai treat. Hamburg Field House, 400 Pine St., Hamburg. Tickets: Eventbrite or InnerPeaceHolisticExpo.com.

Ongoing Events

Holiday Bazaar – 1-5pm. Shop local vendors, hear live music and enjoy vegan and glutenfree food. Participate in by-donation classes, workshops and special events. Kids’ crafts and a soup sale round out the day. Free, with Food4All Cafe and classes by donation. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Sundays

Saturday, December 12 Annual Holiday Holistic & Spiritual Bazaar – 10am-5pm. Explore more than 50 vendors offering crystals, gemstones, handmade jewelry, herbal remedies, candles, spiritual gifts, wellness products, artwork and more. Enjoy a raffle auction benefiting The Chopper Foundation, which supports emergency veterinary care for families and local animal rescues. Free admission; donations welcome. Leesport Farmers Market Banquet Hall, 312 Gernants Church Road, Leesport. LadyLynora.com.

Sunday, December 13 Annual Holiday Holistic & Spiritual Bazaar – 10am-4pm. See 12/12 listing for details.

Thursday, December 31 A Very Kirtan New Year’s Eve – 4:30pm12.01am. Bid fond adieu to 2026 and ring in 2027 with an inspiring combination of yoga, drumming, chanting and more at our annual New Year’s Eve fundraiser. $88. Kula Kamala Foundation. 17 Basket Rd, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Tuesday, January 12 Memoir Writing Workshop: “Exploring Our Life Stories” – 6:30-8:30pm. (Tuesdays thru 2/9.) A safe haven for capturing the memories that matter most. Taught with humor and warmth, learn how writing about our past enables us to better understand our present. No grades, grammar, or judgment. Registration required. Write From the Heart, Lancaster. 717-383-4713. WriteFromTheHeart.us.

Sunday, January 17 Way of Life Practical Herbalism Class – 10am-4pm. One Sunday per month through October. This course is designed for those seeking a deeper understanding of medicinal herbs and their traditional uses. Each month study a different body system and the herbs commonly used to support it. Herbal medicine-making demonstrations, garden tours and tea tastings will complement the lessons. $1400, $400 deposit due at registration. The Rosemary House, 120 S Market St, Mechanicsburg. 717697-5111. RosemaryEvents.Blogspot.com.

Lancaster-Berks

NOTE: To share your events and classes in our calendar, please visit our websites NABerks.com or NALancaster.com for guidelines and a submission link. Deadline: 5th of the month prior. Visit our online calendar where you can find updated event and class information.

Svaroopa Yoga with Sarita – 12-1:30pm. Immerse yourself in a soothing yoga practice designed to release tension and boost vitality. Easy to follow with personalized attention. $25. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. 610-763-1755. SaritaLinda Rocco.com. Living Hope – 4-5:15pm. 2nd Sundays. Explore what it means to live with hope as a daily practice, allowing it to illuminate your path forward. Leave the session renewed, inspired and ready to tend the quiet flame of hope that lives inside you. Donation. Nadine Smet-Weiss at The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading, PA. 610-7631755. TheNestCollaborative.com.

Mondays Gentle Yoga – 9-10am. A welcoming and accessible practice guided by experienced teachers, each bringing their own style and approach. Classes include mindful movement, breath, and a variety of postures with options offered to support different abilities and experience levels. $15. The Urban Well Yoga Studio at St. James Episcopal Church, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. SaintJamesLancaster.org. Chair Yoga at West End Yoga – 10:3011:30am. Accessible for everyone. Traditional poses are converted to using a chair as a foundation or prop. The addition of a long scarf/yoga belt, books/yoga block and beach towel/yoga blanket helps expand the options. $18. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. West EndYogaStudio.com.

ban Well Yoga Studio at St James Episcopal Church, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-3974858. SaintJamesLancaster.org. Lunchtime Kirtan – 12-12:45pm. Stressful days? Try chanting and see what it can do for you. Beginners welcomed. $15. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation.org/calendar. Nervous System Regulation Lab – 4:305:30pm. Gentle class weaves polyvagal theory, somatic release techniques, vagal toning, fascia work, limbic retraining and embodiment practices to help shift from survival mode into safety. $18. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com. Slow Flow – 5-6pm. A gentle, breath-centered yoga flow to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body, ending in peaceful stillness. Open to all levels. $15. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave, Willow Street. 717-6172128. WillowYogaStudio.com. Huddle by Connect Counseling – 8-9pm. Online. A therapy group for men and those who identify as men. Most insurances accepted or $35 out of pocket. For more information or to register, contact Les Jones, LAPC at Les@ConnectingCounselingPA. com or 717-693-5848. $35 per meeting. ConnectCounselingPA.com.

Wednesdays Gentle Yoga at Urban Well – 9am. See Monday listing for details. Svaroopa Yoga with Sarita – 9:30-11am. See Sunday listing for details.

Tuesdays

Feldenkrais, Awareness Through Movement Class – 11am-12pm. Build physical, mental, and emotional awareness through gentle movements inspired by a baby’s first year of development. Improves flexibility, movement quality, energy, posture, focus and overall body organization. $15/drop-in. Susquehanna Dance Center, 120 College Ave, Mountville. FeldenkraisBlog.net.

Slow Flow Yoga – 8:30-9:30am. Breathcentered practice is designed to build strength, balance, and flexibility while creating a sense of calm. Modifications are offered throughout, making classes accessible to all levels. New students receive their first class free. Drop-in classes are $12, or an 8-class pack is available for $80. Holding Space Yoga at Urban Well Studio, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-940-9338. Holding SpaceYoga.com.

Warm Yin and Crystal Sound Bowls – 7-8:15pm. Slow down and unwind in this gentle Yin Yoga class. Poses are held for several minutes with supportive props and optional hands-on assists to help release tneions and improve flexibility. Crystal singing bowls played throughout class create a calming, meditative experience. $18. Bldg7 Yoga, 220 N Park Rd #7, Wyomissing. For information, call 484-755-5705. To register, visit Bldg7Yoga.com.

Chair Yoga – 10am. An adaptable and accessible yoga practice suitable for all. Perfect for experiencing the benefits of yoga while using a chair for support. $15. The Ur-

Ultimate Health Workshop – 7pm. Learn how you can achieve optimal health. Topics vary by week. Free. Call to reserve your spot. Heath Wellness Center, 14 W. Main St,

Strength Training – 6:30-7:30pm. Light weights and resistance builds strength. Open to all levels. $15. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave, Willow Street. 717-617-2128. WillowYogaStudio.com.

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Landisville. 717-530-5555. Center.com.

HeathWellness

Thursdays

Community Resource Guide

Slow Flow Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. See Tuesday listing for details. Holding Space Yoga at Urban Well Studio, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-940-9338. HoldingSpaceYoga.com.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Advertising@NALancaster.com or visit NALancaster.com or NABerks.com.

Chair Yoga at Urban Well – 11am. See Tuesday listing for details.

Acupuncture

Yoga for You – 5:30-6:45pm. No experience needed. Mindful, gentle practice to bring everyone to the experience of yoga by meeting you where you are each week. By donation, $10 suggested. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation.org/calendar.

LANCASTER ACUPUNCTURE

Slow Flow – 5:30-6:30pm. See Tuesday listing for details. WillowYogaStudio.com.

Discover your body’s natural ability to h eal with th e supports of acupuncture and herbal medicine. Acupuncture is a way to relieve acute or chronic pain, stress, allergies, colds, digestive problems, and insomnia and support your overall well-being. See ad, page 29.

Foundations Yoga – 7-8pm. Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to strengthen your practice, this class is for you. We’ll focus on the essential Vinyasa poses, proper alignment, and mindful movement to build confidence and deepen your practice. No experience required. $18. Register online. Bldg7 Yoga, 220 N Park Rd #7, Wyomissing. 484-755-5705. Bldg7Yoga.com.

Fridays Gentle Yoga at Urban Well – 9am. See Monday listing for details. Unwind and Release Yoga – 5:30-6:15pm. Experience whole body and nervous system relaxation and release the stress of the week. $18. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com. Level 1 Yoga – 6-7:15pm. Features basic postures, including alignment and refinement techniques. A slower mindful approach to practice that has both moderate and gentle energetic tones. Registration required. Suggested donation $10. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation.org/calendar. Sound and Movement – 6-7:30pm. 3rd Fridays. A chakra-based exploration of physical movement, sound vibration and stillness. Connect and create on your own and with others through attunement with the instrument of your body. $25. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, Reading. 610-7631755. TheNestCollaborative.com.

Saturdays Tarot – 10:30am-4pm. Nancy Warble offers 4-6-card readings during 20-30-minute session. Drop in or make an appointment. Call for details. $19. Radiance, 13 W Grant St, Lancaster. 717-290-1517. HerbsFromThe Labyrinth.com. Astrology Readings by Leo – 11am-3pm. Call ahead to schedule and provide birth date, place, and if available, specific time. $100 for a 2-3-hour private session. Radiance, 13 W Grant St, Lancaster. 717-290-1517. HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com.

Beverly Fornoff Eden Natural Care Center 600F Eden Rd • Lancaster 717-381-7334 LancasterAcupuncture.com

Bodywork CIRCLE OF LIFE MASSAGE & WELLNESS 918 N Reading Rd • Ephrata 717-335-2338 CircleOfLifeWellness.com

Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, reduced stress or enhanced overall wellness, our experienced therapists tailor each session to meet your individual needs, blending therapeutic bodywork techniques for optimal results. We specialize in Ashiatsu, Thai yoga massage, lymphatic drainage, craniosacral therapy, Japanese facial massage, and more. See ad, page 25.

THE SPA AT WILLOW POND 1487 Old Lancaster Pike Sinking Spring 610-507-9004 TheSpaAtWillowPond.com

Escape to Berks County’s top spa and experience total re n e wa l . F ro m s t re s s relieving massage to skinbrightening facials and detoxifying wraps, every service is designed to help you feel relaxed, refreshed, and more deeply restored—inside and out. See ad, page 5.

Chiropractic A THERAPEUTIC EFFECT

Dr. Andrew Ashton 313D Primrose Ln • Mountville 717-285-9955 • ATherapeuticEffect.com Prov i d i n g a n a rray o f therapeutic treatments and services that promote relaxation and detoxification. Our doctor specializes in low-impact Torque Release Technique which provides immediate results for people of all ages. See ad, page 2.

BLUE SKIES CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Leah Reiff 2727 Old Philadelphia Pike • Bird-in-Hand 717-390-9998 BlueSkiesChiroHealth.com Chiropractic is used for natural relief from conditions such as chronic pain, injuries, pregnancy complications, complications from aging & more. Dr. Reiff carefully considers every individual's comfort level & provides specif ic adjustments to support the body for benefits that will last.

Classifieds Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month. To place listing, email content to Advertising@NALancaster.com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

Help Wanted INTEGRATIVE MEDICAL CLINIC – Established integrative medical clinic in Lancaster County is seeking a CRNP, medical assistant and receptionist. Offering flexible hours and competitive pay rate. Send resume to DrNickDorazio@gmail.com. LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST – Busy day spa in Berks County seeks a licensed massage therapist for individuals, couples and occasions. Send inquiry and resume to: GLSwans1@aol.com.

November 2026

Chiropractic DR. SUPER’S HOUSE OF HEALTH 2209 Quarry Dr, Ste B-21 • West Lawn 610-601-9011 DrSupersHouseOfHealth.com

At Dr. Super’s House of Health, we believe in a personalized approach to health care. We do things the right way, all the time, every time. Discover the healing power that lives within you and take control of yo u r h ea l t h a g a i n . A l s o offering massage and lymphatic drainage.

HEATH CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER LLC Thomas Heath, DC 14 W Main St • Landisville 717-530-5555 HeathWellnessCenter.com

For 33 years, Dr. Heath has been helping people recover their health and reduce stress in their lives through Functional Integrative Brain / Body Balance. He uses Professional Applied Kinesiology, Neuro Emotional Te c h n i q u e , Q u a n t u m Neurology, Nutritional counseling, traditional Chiropractic and other cutting-edge techniques. See ad, page 12.

LINK CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Dr. Thomas B. Wachtmann, DC 3130 Pricetown Rd • Fleetwood 610-944-5000 DrWachtmann.com

High-quality, patient-focused Chiropractic Care and Functional Diagnostic Medicine evaluation and treatment. We focus on correcting the underlying causes of many disorders, diseases and conditions. Call for a complimentary consultation and benefits check. See ad, page 29.

Clinical Aromatherapist INSHANTI

Debra Stoltzfus 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd • Kinzers 717-587-3990 • Inshanti.com Trust a nationally certif ied aromatherapist specializing in clinical consultations. Deb can wo rk d i re c t l y w i t h yo u r physician to create a plan that supports mind and body health. In addition to retail and wholesale accounts of proprietary blends and pure essential oils sourced directly f rom the farmers, half- and full-day education courses with certification are offered. See ad, page 18.

Lancaster-Berks

Coaching (Functional Health) REVIVE WELLNESS HEALTH & PHYSIQUE Allison Fahrenbach, FDNP Allie@ReviveWellness.health ReviveWellness.Health

With nearly two decades of experience, Allison supports men and women in resolving gut, hormone, and weight concerns through personalized, root-cause nutrition and lifestyle coaching. She blends evidence-based strategies, functional lab testing, and holistic guidance to restore hormone balance, improve health, and support sustainable weight loss.

Coaching (Life) CREATE A LIFE WORTH LIVING Stephane Poncelet 570-449-2219 Create-A-LifeWorthLiving.com

I help individuals heal from abuse by transforming survival strategies into tools for connection. Through coaching, clients explore inner conflicts, embrace selfawareness, grieve the past, and build self-respect—creating a life rooted in love, truth and accountability.

Counseling CHELSEA HARRIS COUNSELING LLC

122 W Lancaster Ave, Ste 207 • Shillington 484-898-5063 By Appointment Only Chelsea@ChelseaHarrisCounseling.com Chelsea-Harris6746.clientsecure.me Specializing in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma for children (8+), teens, and adults. Using a traumafocused approach, CBT, DBT and AnimalAssisted Therapy, Chelsea provides a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and navigate life’s challenges.

It is through gratitude for the present moment that the spiritual dimension of life opens up. —Eckhart Tolle

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CONNECT COUNSELING

822 Marietta Ave, Ste 22 • Lancaster & Online with Satellite Offices in Carlisle, Gettysburg & Harrisburg ConnectCounselingPA.com 717-224-1273

Our counselors provide compassionate, client-centered, attachment-based and systems-aware counseling for individuals, couples and families. Through evidencebased therapy, we support emotional wellness, relationship growth and personal healing while creating a welcoming environment tailored to each client’s unique needs, life experiences and goals.

ELEMENTAL WELLNESS

879 Fritztown Rd • Sinking Spring 610-750-9447 ElementalWellnessLlc.com Elemental Wellness offers trauma-informed counseling rooted in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and somatic practices. Focused on nervous system regulation and emotional healing, sessions guide clients toward balance, selfdiscovery, and lasting well-being through a compassionate, integrative approach. See ad, page 12.

M. HARNISH COUNSELING & SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

Malinda Harnish Clatterbuck, MA (she/her) 228 E Orange St • Lancaster 717-875-5066 MHarnishTherapy.com The work of healing and formation begins as we listen to what is going on in our inner life, what is happening in our heart and in our head. Using compassion and deep listening, I will be present with you and help you along your way.

TAKE HEART COUNSELING & EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY 699 Wooltown Rd • Wernersville 717-917-7137 TakeHeartCounseling.com

Providing traumainformed services to address anxiety, depression, self-worth, ADHD, autismspectrum, trauma, behavioral issues, spirituality, family issues and overall mental health and well-being. We empower families and individuals f rom children through adulthood to f ind hope, healing and wholeness through therapy sessions with trained clinicians and the intuitive partnership of horses. See ad, page 41.

Dentistry DAVID A. SCHWARTZ, DDS, PC

Informative Seminar

701 Jefferson Blvd • West Lawn 610-670-6910 SchwartzFamilyDental.com

We provide general and cosmetic mercury-free dental care to the entire family with attention to “whole-person health.” We have advanced training in the safe removal of mercury fillings, non-surgical gum treatments, orthodontics, sleep apnea, solutions for TMJ, facial pain and headaches. Visit our website to learn more. See ad, page 15.

DNA Testing 12:00 PM

KUHN FUNERAL HOMES

Laura Adamo, LFD Specializing in Green Burial 739 Penn Ave • West Reading 646-522-7119 Laura@KuhnFuneralHomes.com KuhnFuneralHomes.com Certified by the Green Burial Council, Kuhn Funeral Homes provide the highest level of service for natural funerals and green burial. We are committed to supporting those seeking familycentered and sustainable PRESENTED BY alternatives at Adamo end-of-life – Laura whether traditional, cremation, or home Licensed Funeral Director funerals. See ad, page 9. and Green Burial expert in Berks County.

Farm/Farmers Markets HOMEFIELDS

150 Letort Rd • Millersville 717-572-2719 Homef ields Care Farm, Lancaster County’s longestrunning CSA, is Pennsylvania Certif ied Organic, offering 300+ vegetable, fruit, and herb varieties May–Nov. Celebrating 30+ years, Homef ields provides vocational training, volunteering, and employment for people of all abilities. Homefields is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

LIVENGOOD FAMILY FARM

Pastured-Raised Meats, Eggs & Produce 1648 Morningside Dr • Lancaster 40 N Charlotte St • Manheim 717-327-6817 Come learn about green burial 717-664-1500 LivengoodFamilyFarm.com SimpleFuneralsPA.com options for natural interment.

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their health! We provide direct access to clinical lab tests, tests, and SCAN OR DNA CALL drug- and alcoholtesting services, vitamin B12 injections and TO RSVP more. See ad, page 4.

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Eco-Friendly Cleaning HUGHES HOME SERVICES

Green Cleaning SamanthAnneHughes@yahoo.com 717-538-6383 We offer weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly services, as well as deep cleaning and organizing using organic safe environmentally kind products. We’d love to help make your home healthy and happy. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 16.

End-Of-Life Care HOSPICE & COMMUNITY CARE/CHOICES

Serving Central PA 717-295-3900 800-924-7610 HospiceCommunity.org

P r o v i d i n g compassionate hospice and palliative care for adults and children facing serious, life-limiting illnesses. Services include exper t pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, inpatient care, pediatric programs, caregiver resources, and comprehensive grief and bereavement support for individuals and families. See ad, page 41.

Our regene-

services that focus on simplicity and value. P l a n n i n g , p re - p l a n n i n g , c re m a t i o n , traditional and green burial services are available. See ad, page 9.

are 100% grassfed and our pork and poultry are free of GMO, soy and corn. Shop online. Convenient farm pickup. Consider hosting a delivery point in your area.

Energy Healing RESTORE YOUR ENERGY

Deb Gallagher, RN, AP Lancaster • 717-203-9666 RestoreEnergy12@gmail.com RestoreYourEnergy.org Experience Eden Energy Medicine, a practice created by Donna Eden, healer, author and teacher. This method assists with balancing our nine energy systems which can become blocked by stress, pain and illnesses. When the energy is balanced, sleep, joy, concentration and immunity improve, and our body’s natural ability to heal can begin.

Family Medicine

NEVER GLOSSY. ALWAYS GREEN. Hamburg

Berks Kutztown

Bethel Wernersville Womelsdorf

Lancaster Elizabethtown

Reading Boyertown

Lititz Ephrata

Lancaster Columbia

Fleetwood

Leola

• Downingtown Coatesville

Willow Street

LUZ MEDICINE

Danielle Miller, MD, Amber Leed, CRNP, Stephanie, Wile CRNP 29 Cloister Ave • Ephrata 717-844-9003 •LuzMedicine.com Dr. Miller and her team empower patients to take charge of their health through t r a n s p a r e n t communication, compassionate care and convenient access. Specializing in family medicine and hormone-related concerns, Luz fosters growth, trust and patient-centered solutions. See ad, page 15.

Gratefully serving Lancaster County and Berks County, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. Paid subscriptions available along with delivery of free-to-the-reader print magazines at hundreds of locations. Sign up on our website to receive our digital magazine delivered free to your inbox. To promote your HEALTHY, NATURAL or GREEN business, service or event, please call 717-399-3187.

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Functional Medicine

Health Mentorship

Holistic Wellness

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

CIRCLE OF LIFE MASSAGE & WELLNESS

Kirsten Miller, MSN, FNP, FMP-C 2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Elizabeth Kelly, MA, FMCHC, NLP, TLT 2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

An ANCC-accredited certified functional medicine practitioner, Kirsten takes a functional and integrative approach to primary care, focusing on the root causes of chronic disease. She specializes in mental health, hormone therapy and cardiometabolic wellness, using targeted treatment plans to support optimal health. See ad, page 11.

Elizabeth is a triple-certified n e u r o - l i n g u i s t i c programming practitioner, timeline therapist and functional medicine health coach. Her expertise helps to reduce stress and anxiety, support digestion, hormone balance, relationship improvements, academics, job performance, addiction recovery and general well-being. See ad, page 11.

KULP NUTRITION & WELLNESS

Herbalism/ Herbal Medicine

Dr. Donna Kulp, DC, DACBN, IFMCP 52 Morgantown Road • Reading 610-208-0404 KulpChiropractic.com Dr. Donna Kulp helps patients achieve health and wellness goals through finding the root cause of illness by considering individual biochemistr y, health histor y, genetics, lifestyle, exercise, and stress to create customized wellness programs for all body systems, including the immune, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems. See ad, page 37.

Functional Neurology LANCASTER BRAIN & SPINE 221 Granite Run Dr • Lancaster 717-299-9600 LancasterBrainAndSpine.com

Our mission is to improve the lives of people suffering from complicated neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, by utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic testing and customized brain-based treatment plans. See ads, pages 9 and 35.

GREEN ENCHANTMENTS, LLC

Cara Marino OTR/L and Holistic Herbalist 860-604-5125 Cara@GreenEnchantments.com GreenEnchantments.com Green Enchantments offers Holistic Herbal Medicine from an Occupational Therapist mindset in order to provide 100% handmade organic and/ or ethically sourced remedies to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual quality of life utilizing internal and external approaches. We additionally offer individualized consultation services using a complementary perspective of allopathic and holistic education.

HERBS FROM THE LABYRINTH

Master Herbalist Sarah Preston Radiance, 13 W Grant St • Lancaster 717-290-1517 HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com Longtime Herbalist Sarah Preston crafts s m a l l - b a tch h e rb a l body-care and wellness products, teas, tinctures, syrups, salves and creams using organically grown and ethically sourced wildcrafted herbs. Consultations and custom blends available. Products found at Radiance and Lemon Street Market, both in Lancaster. See ad, page 20.

918 N Reading Rd • Ephrata 717-335-2338 CircleOfLifeWellness.com

Ex p e r i e n c e h o l i s t i c wellness with our diverse range of services designed to support mind, body and spirit. Unwind in our floatation room, infrared sauna or vibroacoustic space to reduce stress, soothe your nervous system, and alleviate chronic pain. We offer a full menu of bodywork therapies, expertly delivered by skilled practitioners. See ad, page 25.

INDIGO HEALING ARTS STUDIO

265 Plane Tree Dr, Ste 300 Lancaster 717-803-5537 IndigoHealingArtsStudio.com IndigoApothecary.net

A boutique holistic wellness studio offering botanical facials and body treatments, restorative massage therapy and bodywork, manual lymphatic drainage, shiatsu, reflexology, TCM mind/body medicine, and handcrafted apothecary skincare made with wildcrafted and organic plant botanicals.

Homeopathy RUTA HOMEOPATHIC & COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE Tele-health consultations 646-204-9199 RutaComprehensive.org

Dr. Serguei Krissiouk is an experienced practitioner of homeopathic and other complementary medicines with a background in pediatrics. He provides children and adults effective and harmonizing management for acute and chronic health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disturbances, eating disorders and more.

O U R R E A D E R S W I L L S E E YO U in our community resource guide!

Email Advertising@NALancaster.com or visit NALancaster.com or NABerks.com. 50

Lancaster-Berks

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Human Design TRELLA DUBETZ, HUMAN DESIGN PRACTITIONER TrellaDubetz.com IG: @akashicreflector

Human Design melds ancient and modern sciences, providing data, guidance and context to HOW we are built genetically to cosmological levels. It deepens our awareness and relationship to ourselves, so we can move through life with greater ease and satisfaction.

Integrative Medicine

STRASBURG HEALTH ASSOCIATES

Nick D’Orazio, MD 181 Hartman Bridge Rd • Ronks 717-687-7541 DrNickDorazio@gmail.com Physician board certified in i n te g ra t i ve a n d h o l i s t i c medicine employs a wide variety of treatment modalities i n c l u d i n g Ay u r v e d a , I V treatments including chelation, homeopathic, herbal, and nutritional medicine, natural injections, physical rehabilitation, and bodywork. Dr. D’Orazio is a physician who lives what he teaches.

AQUA BLUE WELLNESS

WALNUT GROVE FAMILY MEDICINE & WELLNESS CLINIC

Dr. Hurtubise offers integrative family medicine in Lancaster County, blending over 23 years of m e d i c a l ex p e r t i s e w i t h holistic care. He provides tailored IV therapy plans, acupuncture and lifestyle management, emphasizing personalized, non-pharmacological, and modern medical approaches to wellness. See ad, page 23.

With a patient-first approach using science-based research to guide treatment plans along with supplementary modalities, we help our patients achieve and maintain optimal health and wellb e i n g . Prov i d i n g fa m i l y and sports medicine, acupuncture, infrared therapy, hyrdomassage, discounted labs, medications and supplements and more. See ad, page 16.

Dr. Peter Hurtubise, DO 2435 Old Philadelphia Pk Smoketown • 717-656-8615 AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

MIDDLEWAY WELLNESS

Comprehensive Holistic Primary Care Mary Ellen Francescani, CRNP, IFMT Jane Snyder, CRNP, IFMT Dianne Villani, CRNP 101 Good Dr • Lancaster 717-744-0532 MiddleWayWellness.net A t M i d d l eWa y We l l n e s s , we c o m b i n e conventional, integrative, and f u n c t i o n a l medicine to deliver a holistic, patientcentered approach to primary care. We provide compassionate, thorough care tailored to your needs, whether you're seeking treatment for illness, preventive care, or strategies for optimal health and longevity. All-in-one care! See ad, page 7.

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. —Melodie Beattie

Mary Tierney, MD 3100 Willow Street Pk • Willow Street 717-723-9104 WalnutGroveFamilyMed.com

IV Therapies AQUA BLUE WELLNESS CENTER 2435 Old Philadelphia Pk Smoketown • 717-656-8615 AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

We offer a range of IV hydration vitamin and mineral therapies to support your well-being. IV therapies can suppor t hydration, weight loss, increased energy, improved immunity, address nutrient deficiencies and more. See ad, page 23.

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Our intravenous (IV) supplement therapy provides bioavailable nutrients to help you recover, rejuvenate, repair and rebuild. IV therapy delivers vitamins, minerals and nutrients to the body quickly, efficiently and effectively by bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for direct cellular uptake. See ad, page 11.

VITA HEALTH

Yvonne Godin, MJ, BSN, RN 1834 Oregon Pk, Ste 12 • Lancaster 717-208-5686 VitaHealth-Wellness.com Transform your wellness with precision and care at Vita Health. From 3D body s c a n n i n g a n d re d - l i g h t therapy to IV nutrient therapy and bio-identical revitalization plans, our datadriven, holistic approach delivers personalized, lasting results for your body, mind, and vitality. See ad, page 30.

Lab Testing ANY LAB TEST NOW

235 Bloomfield Dr, 110 Bldg B • Lititz 717-207-7604 AnyLabTestNow.com/Lititz Any Lab Test Now makes it easy for consumers and businesses to manage their health! We provide direct access to clinical lab tests, DNA tests, and drug- and alcoholtesting services, vitamin B12 injections and more. See ad, page 4.

Markets BLUE DOOR MERC & PERC

Twin Valley Holistic Health 2403 Main Street, Suite B • Narvon 484-262-9020 TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com A cozy cafe-mercantile inside Twin Valley Holistic Health & Wellness, serving organic coffee, wholesome food, specialty drinks and curated wellness products including supplements, herbal remedies and locally made and carefully selected self-care goods. See ad, page 7.

KIMBERTON WHOLE FOODS

Wyomissing, Douglasville, Kimberton, Downingtown, Ottsville, Collegeville, Malvern, Eagleview KimbertonWholeFoods.com A family-owned and - operated community market with a commitment to integrity, sustainable agriculture, and fair trade. We carry organic produce, raw dairy, humanely-raised meats, specialty and gourmet foods, baked goods, supplements, natural body care, and household items, cards and books many f rom our over 150 local producers, as well as healthy take out, eat-in and to-go items. See ad, back cover.

November 2026

Markets

Mind-Body-Spirit

LEMON STREET MARKET

SACRED ALIGNMENT

241 W Lemon St • Lancaster 717-826-0843 LemonStreetMarket.com

We are an independent & woman-owned grocery store with a focus on sustainable and healthy living, with many local, organic, vegan and gluten-free options. We’re open 7 days a week, including our kitchen, serving coffee, tea, espresso, fresh juices, smoothies, and grab-and-go takeout items. See ad, page 18.

Mattresses Natural/Organic GARDNER’S MATTRESS & MORE 830 Plaza Blvd • Lancaster 717-299-6228 GardnersMattressAndMore.com

Gardner’s is a locally owned mattress store offering a wide selection of quality natural and organic mattresses ranging from the luxurious to economical. Educating our customers on getting a good night’s sleep and the benefits of sleeping naturally and organically is our mission. To learn more and schedule sleep consultation, visit GardnersMattressAndMore.com/Natural. See ad, page 3.

Heather Hanko Online and In-person 717-693-0224 Heather@HHSacredAlignment.com Connect with loved ones in spirit , f ind balance and receive gentle guidance through life’s challenges. As a gifted medium, Heather creates sacred alignment, offering readings, reiki and supportive coaching to help you invite healing and live with greater peace and clarity.

Mind-Body Therapy A SOUL UNFOLDING

Jody Kulas, Certified Soul Coach, Sound Practitioner 717-340-0793 ASoulUnfolding.com A Soul Unfoldin g offers transformational workshops and experiences designed to support greater selfawareness, emotional re s i l i e n ce a n d p e r s o n a l growth. Through practical tools, embodied exploration and sound-based practices, participants are invited to reconnect with their center and create meaningful, lasting change.

Native/Ecological Gardening COLORGARDEN LLC

Marcella Hostetler 717-413-7054 ColorgardenLlc@gmail.com ColorgardenLancaster.com

Can't find what you're looking for? More businesses, organizations, practitioners and services are listed on our website. Go to NALancaster.com or NABerks.com and click on Directory (top of screen)

Lancaster-Berks

We design, install and provide ongoing care for native habitats, transforming your property into a haven for birds, butterflies and native bees. Join the movement to r e s to r e b a l a n c e i n o u r ecosystems by creating a beautiful, low-maintenance oasis in your backyard!

MAYAPPLE NATIVE LANDSCAPING

717-390-5832 Hello@MayappleNative.com MayappleNative.com We can help you turn your property into an inviting, sustainable, l o w - m a i n te n a n c e haven for you and the w i l d l i fe yo u l ove . Mayapple provides design and installation of pollinator-loving gardens, rain gardens, native meadows, natural stonework and more. Visit the website to book a consultation.

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WAXWING ECOWORKS CO. Elyse Jurgen, MEd, CBLP 717-676-1045 WaxwingEcoWorks.com

Waxwing EcoWorks Co. offers native/ecological gardening consultation, design, build, stewarding and educational services to enhance human well-bein g an d suppor t dwindling wildlife p o p u l a t i o n s . We w o r k alongside you to make your vision come to fruition! Explore our website and online listing for more details.

WILDCRAFT LANDSCAPES

Nate Tietbohl, Owner, Designer 484-772-8012 Info@WildcraftLandscapes.com WildcraftLandscapes.com We d e s i g n , install and s t e w a r d vibrant native landscapes that support healthy ecosystems and expand our clients’ connection to the natural world. We offer a wide array of services for projects of all sizes. HIC#:PA179637. See ad, page 39.

Naturopathic Doctor HEALTH FOR LIFE

Ann Lee, ND, L.Ac 112 Cornell Ave • Lancaster 717-669-1050 DoctorNaturalMedicine.com Learn how your symptoms are connected, get answers and achieve improved health and well-being as we facilitate your body’s ability to heal itself through acupuncture and naturopathic medicine. Special focus on hormone balancing and fertility (now offering DUTCH hormone testing).

Naturopath (Traditional) TWIN VALLEY HOLISTIC HEALTH Britt Stratton, Traditional Naturopath 2403 Main Street, Suite B • Narvon 484-262-9020 TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com

With years of experience, and using a variety of modalities to help your body heal itself, Britt focuses on root cause corrections rather than treating or diagnosing any disease. She and her team work with the body’s systems, believing that each is signif icant, but not separate from the others. See ad, page 7.

Nutrition FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Rileigh Smith, MS, CNS, LDN, CHHC 2207 Oregon Pk, Ste 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com Rileigh is a trained integrative nutritionist with expertise in hormonal optimization, renal disorders, endocrine dysfunction, weight struggles, cardiometabolic disease and osteoporosis. She is also skilled in treating gastrointestinal complaints such as SIBO, H.Pylori, GERD, and candida overgrowth. Virtual and in-person appointments available. See ad, page 11.

Pelvic Floor/ Health Therapy PELVIC FOUNDATIONS

Home-based care in Berks & Lancaster Counties 717-723-9270 PelvicFoundations.com

We provide expert pelvic floor therapy, restoring whole-body health with skilled treatment, education and lifelong tools. Specialties include chronic pain (pelvic, back, hip and tailbone), bowel and bladder disorders, pregnancy/postpartum care, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual health issues—all delivered conveniently and comfortably in your own home. See ad, page 25.

Personalized Medicine FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Mary Regan, DNP, CRNP, FMCP-M 2207 Oregon Pike, Ste 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com Dr. Regan is dually certified in functional and personalized medicine and has been an adult primary care provider since 2010. She provides inperson and remote care to Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware residents. Services may include specialized testing, customized prescriptions, nutritional medicine, neuro-integrative techniques, thermography, IV therapy and health mentorship. See ad, page 11.

Pet Care TILL WE MEET AGAIN

In-home Pet Euthanasia 717-808-4654 TillWeMeetAgain.com For some, euthanasia of their pet at the veterinary hospital is simply not an option. Dr. Mark Huber and his wife Stacey provide home euthanasia for dogs and cats in the most comfortable environment possible-your home-with the intention of bringing peace and comfort to ease the pain of losing a beloved pet. See ad, page 43.

Skill Building LANCASTER WORKSHOP & TOOL LIBRARY 433 Ice Ave • Lancaster 717-951-6037 LancasterWorkshop.com

We foster an inclusive, hands-on space where diverse community members access tools, learn historic and modern trades, and connect with mentors—building skills, preserving craftsmanship, and empowering the next generation through creativity, sustainability and collaboration. Visit our website to learn about classes and events.

Skincare GSL ORGANICS

216 S Church St • Quarryville Candy@GreenStreetLux.com GSLOrganics.org

With over 25 years of ex p e r i e n ce , ow n e r Candy St. Mar tinePack, a certif ied aroma-therapist, formulates all skincare products using natural and organic ingredients to treat a variety of skin issues including, eczema, psoriasis and the effects of aging. See ad, page 20.

Sound Healing/Music RESONATE YOU

Jen Lobo Rose Lititz/Lancaster ResonateYou@gmail.com ResonateYou.com Jen Lobo Rose, a voice teacher for over 20 years, will help guide you to release your singing or sounding voice to help in your own personal wellbeing and healing. Offering private lessons, group classes and sound meditations.

SOUNDWISE SCHOOL OF HARMONIC THERAPY SOUNDWISE HEALTH ASSOCIATES, LLC

Lana Ryder, Director and Senior Instructor, Sound School 313 W Liberty St, Suite 263 • Lancaster 610-301-4356 SoundwiseHealth.com Our trained and experienced professional practitioners offer individual intuitive sound therapy sessions, group immersions, sonic m a s s a g e a n d co rp o ra te wellness events. Also offering an eight-month sound school and individual classes for fundamental education in the art and science of sound healing. Sharing the healing power of sound, voice and music for 50 years. See ad, page 37.

Specialty Foods KWEE-JACK FISH CO

Wild Alaskan Salmon, Halibut & Cod 717-842-0180 EatWildSalmon.com Sustainably harvested wild Alaskan seafood available, f i s h e rm a n - d i re c t . Pre order online seasonally for local pick-up of sushigrade delicious nutrition, deep-frozen at the peak of f reshness to enjoy throughout the year.

NATURALLY LATHERED TALLOW CO. 114 Hidden Valley Rd • Mertztown 484-769-5954 NaturallyLatheredTallowCo.com

Naturally Lathered Tallow Co. crafts traditional tallowbased soaps, whipped balms, skincare, beard care, lip care and specialty household products using thoughtfully sourced ingredients. The familyowned company blends time-honored craftsmanship with modern innovation, offering products designed for natural, everyday living. See ad, page 18.

I am grateful for being alive today. It is my joy and pleasure to live another wonderful day. —Louise Hay

November 2026

Therapeutic Writing

Travel

WRITE FROM THE HEART

LIVING WILD COLLECTIVE

Our uplifting, be-who-you-are w o r k s h o p s a w a ke n t h e creative spirit, gently, without intimidation. Taught in an a t m o s p h e re o f wa rm t h , whimsy and trust, they are a safe haven for all ages. Especially those who long to overcome perfectionism and self-doubt. No grades or red pen. Sharing optional. Mischief a must. See ad, page 19.

Living Wild Collective creates intimate, smallgroup journeys to Southern Af rica for travelers who want to feel a place, not simply see it. Step away from the curious and off the safari vehicle to follow the tracks, get curious and creative and learn and experience the wild through, ecology, ancient wisdom and the senses.

Creative Writing Workshops Melissa Greene • Lancaster 717-393-4713 • WriteFromTheHeart.us

Thermal Imaging AQUA BLUE WELLNESS CENTER

Lori Martin, BCNP 2435 Old Philadelphia Pike • Smoketown 717-656-8615 AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com A family wellness center offering thermal imaging for breast and body, detox therapies, therapeutic and oncology massage, lymphatic drainage, a fullspectrum inf rared sauna, nutritional education and more. Thermal imaging is a safe, non-invasive procedure for early detection of sources of pain, injury and disease. See ad, page 23.

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Our thermal imaging services include breast and women’s wellness scans, upper and lower body scans and dedicated anatomical thermal scans. All images are interpreted by a licensed radiologist to provide detailed, noninvasive thermal imaging insights. See ad, page 11.

SHALOM THERMOGRAPHY Darlene Heath, DC, CTT 14 W Main St • Landisville 717-530-5555 HeathWellnessCenter.com

Thermography provides a noninvasive view of potential health concerns in the breast and body. Used as a risk assessment tool, thermography is able to detect inflammation and metabolic changes, and offers a proactive, prevention-focused approach to health care. See ad, page 12.

Lancaster-Berks

Connect@LivingWildCollective.com 717-368-3543 LivingWildCollective.com

Weight Loss VITA HEALTH

Yvonne Godin, MJ, BSN, RN 717-208-5686 VitaHealth-Wellness.com Transform your wellness with precision and care at Vita Health. From 3D body s c a n n i n g a n d re d - l i g h t therapy to IV nutrient therapy and bio-identical revitalization plans, our datadriven, holistic approach delivers personalized, lasting results for your body, mind, and vitality. See ad, page 30.

Yoga BLDG. 7 YOGA

220 North Park Road, #7 Wyomissing • 484-755-5705 Bldg7Yoga.com A community-based yoga studio that offers something for everyone! With 3 different practice rooms, a wide variety of daily classes, unique monthly workshops, plus free weekly meditation. We strive to create a safe space for our community to connect and live healthier together.

HOLDING SPACE YOGA Urban Well Studio 119 N Duke St • Lancaster HoldingSpaceYoga.com

A welcoming space where Vinyasa and chair yoga become a path of presence and growth, and each class invites balance of body and spirit. Rooted in c o m p a s s i o n , t h e p r a c t i c e n u r t u re s connection, authenticity and a deep sense of belonging.

NALancaster.com | NABerks.com

KULA KAMALA FOUNDATION & YOGA ASHRAM 17 Basket Rd • Reading 484-509-5073 KulaKamalaFoundation.org

Kula Kamala Foundation is a nonprofit, non-sectarian spiritual center dedicated to mindfulness, non-violence, unity, and healing. Our public and professional programs serve people f rom all walks of life. No matter who you are, we have something special for you. OM. Peace. See ad, page 17.

THE NEST COLLABORATIVE 629 Court St • West Reading 610-763-1755 TheNestCollaborative.com

Your place for movement, healing and connection. Yoga, sound baths, wellness circles and fitness classes that support body, mind, and spirit. Your people; your growth. Feel your best— right here in our cozy space. Come as you are, leave more you. See ad, page 38.

WEST END YOGA STUDIO

221 W Walnut St • Lancaster WestEndYogaStudio@gmail.com WestEndYogaStudio.com A diverse yoga studio offering a full range of yoga, meditation and movement classes, in studio, outdoors and vir tual. We are community-oriented, creating a welcoming learning environment dedicated to healing and compassion. All ages and levels welcome. Offering new student unlimited monthly passes and other discounts. See ad, page 27.

WILLOW YOGA STUDIO 25 Nolt Ave • Willow Street 717-617-2128 WillowYogaStudio.com

O f f e r i n g accessible yoga for all levels, this welcoming studio features Slow Flow, Restorative, Chair, Yin and Basics classes, plus on-demand options, private sessions and group events. Yoga teacher training is offered one weekend a month from September through May.

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