Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks September 2025

Mattresses in Lancaster County

Sleep Healthy, Sleep Organic

Gardner’s Mattress & More is proud to carry certified organic mattresses and bedding accessories from Avocado Mattress to provide customers with healthier, eco-friendly sleep options. Avocado products are made from natural and organic materials like GOLS-certified latex, GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, ensuring a sustainable, non-toxic sleep environment. Gardner’s matches all pricing and offers from Avocado, so customers get the best value locally as well as the 5-star service Gardner’s has worked hard to achieve over the past 35 years. Their commitment to quality and wellness aligns with Avocado’s mission to create responsibly made, comfortable products.

With Avocado Mattress Purchase

We honor all pricing and offers on the Avocado website. Expires 09/30/25.

A Place ofPeace A Space forHealing

WHAT IS AN ASHRAM?

An ashram is a spiritual school, situated in a quiet and peaceful space, denoting a locus of activity centering on Yoga study and instruction.

The Kula Kamala Foundation Ashram offers:

Weekly Yoga Classes

Spiritual Studies

Meditation Path Festivals

Meditation

Kirtan, Homa & Puja

Weekend Retreats

Personal Retreats

Sound Healing

Food4All Cafe.teria

Spiritual Counseling

Yoga Teacher Training

International Retreats

Volunteer Opportunities

Residential Internships

Sangha (Community) AND SO MUCH MORE!

For more information & to register for classes and programs visit www.kulakamalafoundation.org or download our use the QR code

17 BASKET ROAD READING PA 19606 (484) 509-5073 STUDY@KULAKAMALAFOUNDATION.ORG

Reimagine the Journey: An Introduction to Green Burial

Join us for a peaceful, informative, and free information session and guided tour of Gethsemane's St. Kateri Tekakwitha natural burial grounds

Learn about the growing movement toward environmentally conscious funerals, including: Natural burial practices

Biodegradable caskets and eco-friendly shrouds Personalized, meaningful alternatives to conventional services Guidance for preplanning with intention and ease

Enjoy a guided tour of the cemetery, speak with compassionate professionals, and explore how green burial honors both life and the planet.

Date & Time: Location: Laura Adamo, Licensed Funeral Director & Green Burial Specialist

Call or email to register 646-522-7119

Laura@KuhnFuneralHomes com

Gethsemane Cemetery 3139 Kutztown Road, Reading, PA 19605 Look for the gazebo!

Thursday, September 25, 2025 4-6PM

All are welcome! Drop in with your questions between 4-6pm and leave with peace of mind.

PROOF There is Hope...

Mercier Therapy is a holistic fertility approach that addresses various reproductive challenges, such as “unexplained infertility”, endometriosis, PCOS, and menstrual irregularities.

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

Other services include: postpartum recovery pelvic floor therapy pregancy bodywork labor preparation · myofascial release for men and women

Harvest Dr. Ste 1, Gordonville • functionaltherapyandwellness.com Call to schedule your appointment: 717-929-0950

“An amazingly powerful, soothing, and tender class.” - J.D.

“Melissa showed me how writing connects me with my true self.” - A.B.

Not Only a Writing Workshop...

️Write from the Heart is a retreat where creative souls can laugh, share, learn, and relax without life’s distractions. In an atmosphere of kindness and trust, Melissa’s gentle, non-intimidating classes welcome all levels, including those who have always longed to write, but felt they couldn’t. An antidote to perfectionism and self-doubt, there are no grades, rules, competition or judgment. Sharing is optional. Learn how writing, without fear, grounds us in humanity, connects us with others, and brings joy into our lives. Nurturing writers... since 2001 www.writefromtheheart.us 717-393-4713 | melissa@writefromtheheart.us

Authenticity is a privilege we are born with—one we must claim and carry forward. It offers empowered potential to shine a light on our path through the world. The liberating momentum of leaning into oneself and learning the language of discernment is a delicate and delicious endeavor, activating our greatest and most unified truths.

If we are on a quest of integration—pulling together the intricate parts of past and present experience while refining visions and dreams for the future—then wellness practices that help to clear and focus energies are crucial. Believing in the wisdom of the body and our own intuition is an important start to accessing astute inner guidance on the way to self-realization.

This month’s focus is on refining and connecting the integrity of both body and soul to sustain and nourish ourselves deeply, and on caring for this inner terrain with sincere and consistent attention. We can create a foundation for the serenity that is waiting to unfold through meditative techniques, postures and breathwork. Contributors share insights on these timeless treasures of yoga that align our vital life force with a brilliant inner world where mind, body and spirit are nourished in so many ways. We are reminded of an eternal place of calm to return to.

Stillness settles in, breath moves in rhythm and important shifts take place. The body’s core supports digestion, as well as the neural circuitry that regulates nutrient uptake and homeostasis. Ideally, we create inner harmony with balanced thought, emotion and action to promote a smoother, lighter sense of being.

Our feature article illuminates just how finely tuned certain organic details are, specifically highlighting the indispensable microbiome, which plays a vital role in transporting food and communicating in its own unique way with the central nervous system. This gut-brain axis is a sophisticated network that carries its own set of complex needs and information.

We can learn so much when we listen to our bodies. We welcome you to continue your own unique patterns of intent, self-compassion and mindfulness—and with clarity and ease, honor that process of trusting your gut. In a return to wholeness, we support living into the essence of your true self and sharing boldly with the world.

In breath and balance,

Jacqueline Mast and Kendra Campbell, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors

On the Cover

Monica de Vitry, founder of Flow Mamas, guides mothers to reclaim their sacred feminine power and create lives they love. Through astrology, art and yoga, she offers space for reflection, connection and a return to inner wisdom. Listen to Moon Tuned: The Flow Mamas Podcast and explore upcoming workshops at FlowMamas.com.

Michelle Johnsen is a Lancaster-based photographer and photojournalist who tells stories about her community through authentic and vulnerable images. Find her work www.LancasterPhotoCollective.com/MichelleJohnsen Photography.

LANCASTER/BERKS EDITION

Co-Publishers/ Kendra Campbell

Executive Editors Jacqueline Mast

Editor Sara Gurgen

Contributing Writer Trella Dubetz

Proofreader Randy Kambic

Design & Production Steffi K. Kern

Sales & Marketing Kendra Campbell

Social Media/Website Carolyn Coogan

CONTACT US

Ten Branches Publishing P.O. Box 6274 ∙ Lancaster, PA 17607

Phone: 717-399-3187

Fax: 717-427-1441

Publisher@NALancaster.com NALancaster.com • NABerks.com

Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks @natural_lancasterberks

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Visit our website to sign up for our free digital edition or to subscribe for home delivery. $30/12 issues or $50/24 issues.

Cover image by Michelle Johnsen Photography

NATIONAL TEAM

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

Customer Service Dani Bucad

CONTACT US

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

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

© 2025 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.

Our Own Baked Pupcakes, Meals & Treats Holistic and Nutritious Quality Foods & Supplements

Celebrate Young Creativity and Compassion This September

The Peace Kids to the Rescue Art Show and Silent Auction will return from 5 to 8 p.m. on September 5 at Millersville University’s Ware Center. Featuring artwork donated by children ages 6 to 18, the event raises funds for Church World Services and Arch Street Center, which support marginalized and displaced community members.

Durable, Non-Toxic Toys to Stimulate your Pet A Curated Selection of Pet Apparel and Accessories

Basset & Lab

1352 Harrisburg Pike · Lancaster (next to Brimmer’s) BassetAndLab.com · 717-288-1200

Order Online for Local Delivery or In-Store Pickup Lancaster's New Destination for Dog and Cat Lovers

More than just an art show, the event encourages youth to use creativity and compassion to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Attendees can also purchase Peace Kids T-shirts, handmade mugs by local potter Amy Burke, notecard sets featuring this year’s artwork and stickers. A community coloring project—designed by local artist Richard Babusci—invites both kids and adults to contribute to a collaborative canvas.

With food and drinks generously donated by local businesses, this uplifting event offers a heartfelt reminder that children, too, have the power to be agents of change.

Location: 42 N. Prince St., Lancaster. For more information, call 610-416-9391, email PeaceKidsToTheRescueArtShow@gmail.com or visit PeaceKidsArt.com or Facebook.com/ PeaceKidsToTheRescue.

Kwee-Jack

Salmon Season Delivers Flavor,

Family and a Few Hungry Bears

Please support our local businesses and practitioners. And let them know you saw them in Natural Awakenings.

Joe Echo-Hawk, owner and Captain

This year marked a milestone for the Kwee-Jack crew in Alaska, as three generations came together for the first time to harvest wild salmon. The team braved an unusually active spring, with grizzly bears emerging early from hibernation and making frequent visits to their camp—sometimes even inside the cabin. Spirits lifted when the vibrant sockeye salmon finally arrived in abundance, signaling a successful summer harvest.

Now, the fruits of their labor are making their way to communities across the country. Kwee-Jack’s 2025 season of sustainably harvested, fisherman-direct wild Alaskan salmon is available for preorder, with local pickup events happening this fall in Florham Park, New Jersey, and a number of locations in Pennsylvania, including Altoona, Chambersburg, Mechanicsburg, York and Lancaster. Nationwide shipping is also available.

Consumers can choose from vivid red, sushi-grade sockeye fillets—boneless, skin-on and vacuum-packed for freshness—offered as whole or portioned servings. Smoked varieties are also on the menu. Flash-frozen at peak quality, Kwee-Jack salmon is ideal for quick, flavorful and nutrient-dense meals.

For more information or to place an order, call 717-842-0180, email Anna@EatWildSalmon.com or visit EatWildSalmon.com. See ads, pages 42 and 57.

Revitalize Your Health and Glow With Blossom Med Spa’s New

Service

Danielle Leithead, DOM

Blossom Med Spa, a trusted presence in downtown Lancaster for more than a decade, is expanding its holistic offerings this October with the addition of acupuncture to its wellness menu. Known for blending advanced aesthetic treatments with whole-body care, the spa’s services already include infrared sauna, halotherapy, sound therapy and soon the timeless healing benefits of acupuncture.

“We’re so excited to introduce acupuncture to our clients,” shares Alyssa Licatese, owner and founder. “It’s a natural complement to the services we already provide, helping address not just cosmetic goals, but overall health and balance.”

Blossom is equally celebrated for its comprehensive aesthetic services, from rejuvenating medi-facials and targeted skin treatments to advanced laser therapies and hair removal. Offerings include chemical peels, microneedling and cosmetic enhancements designed to

Title Sponsors:

Title Sponsors:

Reading, PA 19605 www.MyGutInstinct.org

Saturday, Oct. 4

11am - 3pm (Rain Date: Oct. 5)

A Healthy Movement since 2013

We’re thrilled to be hosting this year’s event at a brand new location - you don’t want to miss it!

Jim Dietrich Park

4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd

In addition, Blossom now carries ZO Skin Health, the physician-dispensed skin care line developed by Dr. Zein Obagi, which offers advanced solutions for sun damage, pigmenta-

Saturday October 4th 2025

Saturday October 4th 2025

Scan QR Code for more information and registration details!

Location: 101 N. Queen St., Ste. 93, Lancaster. For more information and to book a service, call 717-299-9000, email Info@Blossom-MedSpa.com or visit Blossom-MedSpa.com. See ads, pages 18 and 56.

Pasture-Raised Turkeys Ready for Thanksgiving

mygutinstinct.org/guts-glory

11am - 3pm @ Jim Dietrich Park 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd Reading, PA 19605 We’re

Livengood Family Farm, in Lancaster, is now accepting preorders for pasture-raised Thanksgiving turkeys. These broad-breasted white birds are raised outdoors and rotated regularly on fresh grass. Free of antibiotics, soy, corn and GMOs, they forage on bugs and native grasses, supporting soil regeneration and sustainable land stewardship.

Our FREE, ALL AGES, PET-FRIENDLY community event features:

• Expert lectures on nutrition, fitness & healthy living

• Massage

• Farmer’s & Makers’ Market

• Live DJ music

• FREE health screenings

• Healthy food and drinks for sale

• Live active demos (participation encouraged!)

19605

Each turkey is freshly dressed and fully chilled—never frozen—and includes the neck and giblets. Whole turkeys can be picked up between November 22 and 26 at the farm or at the Clark Park Farmers Market, in Philadelphia. Livengood can also freeze birds for later pickup after Thanksgiving.

• Kid activities & veggie race

• Holistic experts & stress relief tips

• MEGA-colon gut-health exhibit

• Alternative therapies

• Community partners

Our FREE, ALL AGES, PET-FRIENDLY community event features:

• Nonprot organizations

• First Responders

• Expert lectures on nutrition, tness & healthy living

•

•

Owned and operated by Dwain and Audrey Livengood and their four sons, the farm follows regenerative, beyond-organic practices, nurturing pasture-raised animals and GMO-free produce—including 100 percent grass-fed Angus beef, chickens, ducks, pigs and sheep—all raised without synthetic chemicals or antibiotics.

• Kid activities & veggie race

• Massage •

• Holistic experts & stress relief tips

Digestive & Wellness Expo

•

Saturday, September 25th

RAIN OR SHINE! SAVE THE DATE!

• MEGA-colon gut-health exhibit

• Alternative therapies

• Alternative therapies

Location: 1648 Morningside Dr., Lancaster. For more information or to make a preorder,, call 717-327-6817, email Info@LivengoodFamilyFarm.com or visit LivengoodFamilyFarm.com. See ad, page 53.

• Community partners

• Community partners

• Nonpro t organizations

2025 Title Sponsor:

• Nonpro t organizations

• First Responders

• First Responders

Craft Your Own Clean Beauty With

GSL Organics

GSL Organics will host hands-on Soap & Candle Making Classes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 13 at its Quarryville studio. Led by founder and certified aromatherapist Candy Ann St. Martine-Pack, the class invites participants to create a soy candle, herbal soap and personalized face spritzer using organic essential oils tailored to their skin types.

This small-batch, woman-owned company has been formulating clean, plant-based skin care for more than 25 years. Its products address common concerns such as eczema, psoriasis and signs of aging, and are vegan, cruelty-free and made locally with globally sourced, indigenous ingredients. There are no sulfates, parabens or harsh chemicals—just pure, skin-loving care.

Aprons and bottled water will be provided. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Cost: $58. Location: 216 S. Church St., Quarryville. For more information or to register (required), visit GSLOrganics.org. See ads, pages 22 and 57.

Make Pack House Cottage Your Fall Getaway

Plan a perfect autumn or holiday escape at the Pack House Cottage, a five-star-rated Airbnb retreat nestled in the scenic southern end of Lancaster County. Located in Quarryville, the cozy, two-bedroom, two-bath cottage features a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, a porch with a swing, and a charming yard and garden.

With space for up to six guests, the property offers a welcoming home base for exploring the best of Lancaster—Amish culture, pumpkin patches, theater, shopping, smorgasbords, antique markets, farms and city life. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with homemade bread, local organic eggs, coffee, teas, butter, jam and classic whoopie pies. Two friendly potbelly pigs on-site enjoy visits and treats from guests.

Location: 216 S. Church St., Quarryville. For more information, call 267-642-6188, email PackHouseLancaster@gmail.com or visit Airbnb.com/rooms/27126677. See ads, pages 22 and 57.

Embark on a 5-day journey of healing with Naturopath Barbara O’Neill, a worldrenowned teacher who combines foundational knowledge about the body’s systems and a deep affinity for the wonders of nature to advance the

For more info and to purchase tickets, scan the QR code!

www.twinvalleyhealthandwellness.com/ self-heal-with-barbara-oneill-2025

Shop Blue Door Merc & Perc online and in-person during the event for O’Neill-endorsed

tools and natural remedies! www.TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com/shopbluedoor

Take a Courageous Step Toward Healing at Elemental Wellness

Jamie Hogan

Elemental Wellness, in Wernersville, is celebrating more than three years of supporting individuals, couples and families through holistic and traumainformed care, delivered by a team of skilled clinicians. Their specialties include dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, somatic therapy, internal family systems therapy and yoga-based practices.

As the seasons begin to shift and the days grow shorter, many individuals experience heightened emotional challenges. “This time of year, we often feel the heaviness of being human more intensely,” says founder Jamie Hogan. “It’s not defeat to reach out for support—it’s a courageous step toward healing.”

Elemental Wellness currently has openings for both in-person and virtual counseling sessions. The clinicians at the practice each bring unique specialties, including chronic pain, substance use and spiritual exploration. For clients open to deeper self-reflection, Hogan also offers oracle and tarot as therapeutic tools. Most commercial insurances and private pay options are accepted.

Location: 60A Werner St., Wernersville. For more information, call 610-750-9447, email Info@ElementalWellnessllc.com. or visit ElementalWellnessllc.com. See ads, pages 30, 52 and 54.

Celebrate National Yoga Month With West End Yoga

West End Yoga Studio, in Lancaster, will celebrate National Yoga Month this month with its Unlock & Ascend campaign—a monthlong series of events, sales and opportunities designed to support both new and returning yoga practitioners.

Throughout the month, attendees can enjoy giveaways, studio sales and the studio’s popular $45 first-month unlimited membership for new students. Whether beginning, reconnecting with a practice or exploring meditation, mindfulness and whole-body health, participants will find a welcoming space to grow and explore.

The Unlock & Ascend theme reflects the studio’s mission of guiding individuals on their personal path toward wellness, balance and inner clarity. With a full class schedule and a supportive community of experienced instructors, West End Yoga encourages students to take the next step in their practice this fall.

Location: 221 W. Walnut St., Lancaster. For more information, call 717406-9681 or visit WestEndYogaStudio.com. See ads, pages 9 and 58.

hornfarmcenter.org/pawpawfest/

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Weight loss & weight management

Digestive issues

Thyroid conditions

High Cholesterol

High Blood Pressure

Diabetes

Awakened Heart Yoga Teacher Training Registration Now

Open

The Nest Collaborative, in West Reading, invites aspiring yoga teachers and dedicated practitioners to embark on a transformative journey with its 2026 Awakened Heart Yoga Teacher Training, a 200-hour Yoga Alliance-approved program starting March 24.

Grounded in the philosophy of “open hands, open heart,” this training emphasizes that teaching yoga begins not with perfection, but with love. Participants will cultivate self-awareness, selfcare and self-compassion while learning the skills needed to guide classes with confidence and clarity. Through clear instruction in asana, anatomy and alignment, paired with a heart-centered approach, participants will be supported in teaching with authenticity, curiosity and compassionate leadership.

Graduates will be prepared to inspire healing, transformation and connection—both in their own lives and in the lives of their students. More than a professional certification, Awakened Heart training offers a profound personal journey toward leading from abundance rather than depletion. Enrollment is now open, with the first free information session taking place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on September 28.

Cost: $3,500. Location: 629 Court St., W. Reading. For more info or to register, call 610-763-1755, email Info@TheNestCollaborative.com or visit TheNestCollaborative.com. See ads, pages 30 and 58.

Experience Expanded Sound Healing at Soundwise Health

Soundwise Health Associates LLC and the Soundwise School of Harmonic Therapy have expanded their Lancaster studio to host larger group sound healing sessions and classroom trainings. The inaugural event takes place during the Second Sunday Sound Healing from 6 to 7:30 p.m. September 14, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Special guest

will perform on sitar.

“This space takes sound healing to the next level,” says founder Lana Ryder. “It allows more space for students to practice their work and nurtures participants in sound healing events to a deeper level of inner revelation and transformation.”

Fall events include Two Gongs Talking with Ryder and KennethMichael Ebert on October 12, from 6:30 to 8pm, and a Sound Healing Mini-Expo on November 9, from 12 to 5 p.m., featuring local sound healing practitioners, instruments, and related books and art. Ryder also plans to bring internationally known sound healers and educators to the school in coming months and will open select continuing education opportunities for the public.

Cost: $40 per person for the inaugural event. Location: 313 W. Liberty St., Ste. 263, Lancaster. For more information or to register, call 610-301-4356, email SoundwiseHealth@aol.com or visit SoundwiseHealth.com. See ad, page 57.

OPEN ALL YEAR!

Lunch and Dinner combo meals include a R&K Sub or Pretzel Sandwich and Milkshake or Float. Open Daily 12 - 9PM (Closed Tues)

Discover Your Light at Hope Noted

Summit

The Hope Noted Summit invites the community to a day of rest, reflection and renewal, blending healing practices, creative expression and connection to help participants discover peace and purpose. The summit runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., September 27, at Pineapple Manor, in Millersville, with doors opening at 9:45 a.m. for coffee, tea and light breakfast fare before the keynote.

The theme, Finding Hope in Light and Shadow, will be woven throughout the day, offering space for joy and introspection. Attendees can choose from sessions including an immersive sound bath with Jen Ryan, restorative yoga with Catie Troxell, forest therapy with Shannon Zimmerman, blackout poetry creation with JJ Landis, and “I Am Light,” an interactive musical expression performance with Julia Kamanda. Keynote speaker Vanessa Simmons of the Embodied Wisdom Institute will open the event with an inspiring talk.

A catered lunch, refreshments and event photography are included.

Cost: $60. Space is limited. Location: 417 Manor Ave., Millersville. For more information or to register, visit HopeNoted.com/events.

Explore Holistic Living at the Greater Wellness Holistic Expo in Lebanon

Greater Wellness Holistics  will present the Greater Wellness Holistic Expo from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., September 7, at the Lebanon Expo Center North Hall, with more than 80 vendors, demonstrations, giveaways, a kids’ corner and guest speakers focusing on natural healing, alternative wellness and community connection, all under one roof. This event is a powerful opportunity for readers to explore local holistic services, connect with practitioners and discover tools for mind-body-spirit balance.

The event’s co-producers are Young Living Essential Oils representative Rosemary Forsyth and Bobby Herflicker, owner of White Willow Apothecary, both vending at the event. Owner Elizabeth Robb says, “This event aligns perfectly with those that value wellness, energy healing, herbalism, sustainable living and conscious community.”

Admission is $10 cash or free for military and kids under 12. Location: 80 Rocherty Rd., Lebanon. For more information and $5 advance tickets (on the website), call 484-904-3901, email Liz@ GreaterWellnessHolistics.com or visit GreaterWellnessHolistics.com.

Season of Self-Care

PUMPKIN PATCH SPECIAL

Embrace the season with the ultimate autumn indulgence: a 60-minute therapeutic massage to melt away tension, followed by a soothing pumpkin foot scrub that leaves skin soft, smooth, and perfectly refreshed. $99

COUPLES MASSAGE WITH FOOT SCRUB

Reconnect and unwind alongside your partner with a relaxing one-hour massage followed by a rejuvenating foot scrub and luxurious hot towels. The perfect way to nurture your bond and melt away stress! $245

Experience our revitalizing cellulite treatment paired with a detoxifying body wrap to firm your skin, boost circulation, and reveal a more radiant you. Lose 6-20 inches and treat yourself to total body renewal! $185

The Spa At Willow

Pond

by September 30, 2025.

Feel Stronger From Home With Virtual Pilates

CMB Pilates, founded by instructor Christine Betances, now offers virtual private Pilates sessions, with small and large group classes launching soon. Designed for accessibility and convenience, these Zoom-based workouts require only a mat and a willingness to move—no specialized equipment is needed.

Betances creates a welcoming, inclusive environment where participants of all levels can feel supported and empowered. Each session helps participants cultivate a stronger connection to their bodies and greater confidence in their ability to care for themselves and their families. Whether beginners or experienced practitioners, clients are encouraged to engage in consistent, mindful movement that fits their lifestyles.

The waitlist for group sessions is now open and space is limited. Newsletter subscribers receive early access to pop-up classes, exclusive pricing and blog content.

Cost: Pop-up sessions start at $25, with full pricing details available on the website. To sign-up for the group sessions, visit CMPPilates.com. For more information, text 484-214-2987, email Info@CMBPilates.com or visit CMBPilates.com. See ad, page 57.

Take Your Practice to New Heights With Rooftop Yoga

Bldg. 7 Yoga invites the community to experience Rooftop Yoga from 7 to 8 p.m. on September 10 atop the DoubleTree Garage in downtown Reading. This unique outdoor class offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the iconic Pagoda and a breathtaking sunset.

Hosted by studio owner Natashia Linderman, the event welcomes all levels of yoga experience and provides an opportunity to move, breathe and connect under the open sky. Each ticket includes a one-hour yoga class, a refreshing drink from Pagoda City Brewing, a soft pretzel and up to three hours of free parking.

Participants must preregister online. Rooftop Yoga is part of Bldg. 7’s ongoing summer series designed to build community, promote wellness and enjoy the outdoors in a fun, accessible way.

Cost: $20 cash at the door. Location: Rooftop of DoubleTree Garage, 701 Court St., Reading. For more information, call 484-755-5705, email Tashia@Bldg7Yoga.com or visit Bldg7Yoga.com. See ad, page 58.

Expand

Your Knowledge at Connections in Women’s Health

Luz Medicine, a Lancaster County-based family medical office specializing in women’s care, will host an all-day learning event on November 22 at the Eden Resort & Suites, in Lancaster, bringing together women and health professionals for education, networking and community. Since opening in 2020, Luz Medicine has been known for its attentive, comprehensive approach to women’s health, helping patients reach their goals through careful listening, thorough assessment and personalized support.

The Connections in Women’s Health program will feature experts from across the region discussing topics such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles, perimenopause, pelvic physical therapy and mental health. Attendees can learn from a range of perspectives; connect with others facing similar challenges; and engage directly with health professionals in an open, supportive setting. A provided lunch and networking opportunities will make the day both informative and enjoyable.

Cost: $89; $79 early-bird pricing before Oct. 1. Location: 222 Eden Rd., Lancaster. For more info or to register, text or call 717-844-9003, email Info@LuzMedicine.com or visit LuzMedicine.com. See ads, pages 31 and 53.

Find Your Flow With Accessible Chair Yoga

Willow Yoga Studio co-owners Monica Kirchner and Leah Margerum will offer new chair yoga classes beginning this month to make yoga more accessible for all bodies and abilities. Held Mondays and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., the 45-minute sessions are designed for individuals that have difficulty getting down to the floor or are recovering from injury or joint replacement. Chair yoga provides a safe, supportive way to improve flexibility, balance and strength without the fear of falling.

Each class begins with calming breathwork and a short meditation before moving into seated stretching and strengthening movements, with the option to stand behind the chair for supported balance poses. Gentle twists, deeper stretches and a peaceful savasana (corpse pose) close the practice, leaving participants feeling more relaxed, mobile and energized.

Cost: $15 drop-in or 10-class card for $120. Location: 25 Nolt Ave., Willow Street. For more info or to register, call 717-617-2128, email Info@Willow YogaStudio.com or visit WillowYogaStudio.com. See ads, pages 34 and 58.

$5 PRESALE TICKETS: p pa mto4pm SHOP WITH OVER 100 LOCAL FARMERS & PRODUCERS plus: food trucks, pouring room, demo kitchen, farm animals, live music and kids activities

Fulfilling The Unspoken Promise

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions a family can make. Dr. Mark and Stacey Huber are dedicated to providing compassionate support for you and your pet through this difficult time, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way.

Choose In-Home Euthanasia? • Less stress for your pet by avoiding a trip to the clinic

Comfort and privacy for your family

A familiar environment to help create a peaceful experience

Empower Your Health

Twin Valley Holistic Health and Wellness will present SelfHeal With Barbara O’Neill, a five-day immersive health program from October 14 to 18 at Lancaster Mennonite School. Globally respected for her no-nonsense, natural healing approach, O’Neill returns to the U.S. to teach practical strategies for restoring health through lifestyle, nutrition, detoxification and natural remedies.

Each day will focus on essential body systems and conditions— from gut and liver health to hormones, thyroid, bone strength and chronic illness. O’Neill will also cover emotional well-being, dental care and natural pain management. Guest speakers include Dr. Todd Frisch, author of WTF? Why the Face, and holistic health educator Jacqueline Bourne, of OK B Healthy.

The Saturday vendor market, open to the public from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 18, will feature natural products, wellness services and local vendors.

Cost: Tickets start at $400. Registration is recommended; however, walk-ins are welcome with cash payment accepted at the door. Location: 2176 Lincoln Hwy. E., Lancaster. For more info or to register, call 484-262-9020, email TVHHWellness@gmail.com or visit  SelfHealBarbaraONeill2025.eventbrite.com. See ads, pages 12, 53 and 56.

Discover the Joy of Wellness at This Year’s Guts and Glory Expo

The 12th annual Guts and Glory Digestive and Wellness Expo will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on October 4 (rain date: October 5) at a new location—Jim Dietrich Park, in Reading. Hosted by the nonprofit My Gut Instinct Inc. in partnership with title sponsor Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, the vibrant, family-friendly celebration is free and open to the public.

Designed to inspire healthy living from the inside out, the expo brings together more than 100 vendors and community partners offering interactive demos, health screenings, wellness education, live fitness sessions, massage, yoga, DJ music, food trucks, a farmers market and more. A highlight of this year’s event is the Inflatable Colon Exhibit, an immersive, walk-through model that educates visitors about colon health and common digestive diseases.

Since its founding in 2013, the event has drawn thousands of “wellness warriors” of all ages, providing engaging resources and motivation to live healthier lives. “We want to show the community that eating and living healthy is not only easy to do, but also fun and delicious,” says founder Dr. Aparna Mele, a board-certified gastroenterologist with U.S. Digestive Health. “Beauty starts on the inside.”

In addition to spreading health awareness, the expo emphasizes prevention through lifestyle changes and screenings for common, avoidable diseases. T-shirts will be available for purchase, and opportunities to get involved are still open for volunteers, vendors, nonprofits and sponsors. “The Guts and Glory Digestive and Wellness Expo has become a beloved local tradition, known for its joyful energy, educational impact and strong community connections,” adds Mele. “It’s more than an event—it’s a movement for a healthier, happier future.”

Location: 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd., Reading. For more information or to get involved, visit MyGutInstinct.org and follow @ mygutinstinct and @gutsyandmini on social media. See ad, page 11.

Join us for a magical farm-to-table meal on a bucolic 40-acre homestead in Allentown, Pennsylvania where we will celebrate the bounty of the season.

RESERVE YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE SEPTEMBER 25 RODALEINSTITUTE.ORG/SEASONALDINNERS/

Food Companies To Discontinue Food Dyes

erierika from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Kraft Heinz, General Mills and Nestlé have announced a voluntary commitment to eliminate all artificial food dyes from their U.S. products starting in mid-2026 and to stop using them in new products immediately. Kraft Heinz and Nestlé maintain that about 90 percent of their U.S. products are already free of synthetic dyes, with remaining efforts focused on specific items such as Nesquik Banana Strawberry mix, Kool-Aid, Jell-O and Jet-Puffed marshmallows. General Mills has indicated that their pledge will affect only 15 percent of its product portfolio and has vowed to prioritize removing the offending colors from K-12 school foods.

The move comes as federal health officials push for the phase-out of petroleum-based dyes due to health concerns, including behavioral effects in children. The Center for Science in the Public Interest continues to advocate for the implementation of warning labels on products containing synthetic dyes. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved new natural colorings, manufacturers face challenges in terms of cost, color intensity and sourcing.

Cranberry Products for Urinary Tract Infections

Products containing cranberries, including juice and capsules, have been widely used for decades to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI). To objectively assess this anecdotal evidence, a research team conducted a review of 50 studies involving approximately 9,000 participants susceptible to UTIs. The published findings in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews indicated that cranberry products may help prevent the condition in children, women with recurrent UTIs and those prone to UTIs following medical procedures. However, no discernible benefits were observed in elderly individuals living in long-term care facilities, pregnant women or adults experiencing difficulties with bladder emptying.

Youth Develops Heart Disease Detector

Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally, and most people do not know they have cardiovascular disease until they suffer a heart attack or stroke. Early detection currently relies on routine checkups, electrocardiograms, stress tests, echocardiograms and blood tests, but these diagnostic methods may not be universally accessible to low- and middle-income families.

Siddarth Nandyala, a 14-year-old from Texas, invented an application called Circadian AI for smartphones that can pinpoint cardiovascular abnormalities early in their development. To build the app, Nandyala collected data from various hospitals and institutions, thus constructing a robust artificial intelligence (AI) model.

App users are directed to place their smartphones near the heart so the device can record the sound of heartbeats. This real-time data is then compared to the AI model, leading to an analysis of the user’s cardiac health and recommended medical interventions.

A pre-screening phase conducted on more than 18,000 patients in the United States and India yielded a remarkable 96 percent success rate in the detection of heart abnormalities. Nandyala is currently in the process of securing regulatory approvals in the U.S., India and other countries.

Global Integration of Traditional Medicine

In May, the World Health Organization adopted the “WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034” with the objective of facilitating universal access to traditional, complementary and integrative medicine. The organization has committed to investing in the research of ancient healing practices and their integration into conventional healthcare systems over the next decade.

While representatives from Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America supported this global strategy, the European Union raised concerns about quality and safety standards. To alleviate fears about counterfeit products or misleading claims, the plan stipulates that no practices would be endorsed without evidence-based research, and the modalities will be codified and integrated into a regulatory framework. The blueprint also acknowledges the rights of Indigenous peoples to their traditional medicines and emphasizes the importance of sharing the benefits when their knowledge leads to commercial products.

Traditional medicine employs nature-based remedies and holistic approaches to restore balance in the mind, body and environment. Certain practices such as Ayurveda or Traditional Chinese Medicine have been developed over millennia and codified in scholarly texts. Others can be characterized as non-codified folk medicine passed down orally from generation to generation. Whether formally documented or carried forward around the campfire or kitchen table, these practices serve as the primary healthcare option for substantial populations in low- to middle-income countries and are gaining popularity in wealthier countries as complementary care.

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Endangered Butterfly Benefits From Hurricanes

The Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly was one of the first insects to be listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1976, and their population hit an all-time low on Elliott Key, Florida, with an estimated 56 individuals in 2007, two years after Hurricane Wilma. Historically, Schaus’ swallowtails lived throughout the Florida Keys and parts of the mainland. But habitat loss and urban development have forced them to live only on protected land on Elliott Key and Key Largo.

A study by scientists from the Florida Museum of Natural History examined 35 years of data on the butterfly and found that they unexpectedly benefit from hurricanes. The swallowtails rely on torchwood and wild lime plants for food and to lay their eggs. These plants live in the understory of the forest where there is little filtered light. However, when the branches and leaves on taller trees are temporarily knocked out after a hurricane, torchwood and wild lime experience a rapid growth of fresh leaves. The tender shoots and leaves mean more butterflies. The most recent estimate of the Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly population on Elliott Key is 4,400 individuals.

Eco-Friendly Cattle

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, livestock accounts for approximately 12 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions, most of which is produced when cattle burp. Grazing bovines belch a greater amount of methane than feedlot or dairy cows because they consume more fiber from grass.

In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that feeding grazing cattle a seaweed supplement reduced methane emissions by almost 38 percent without affecting the animals’ health or weight. The 10-week experiment on a ranch in Montana involved 24 steers divided into two groups—one was given a seaweed supplement in pellet form, and the other was not. The findings offer a way to make cattle grazing more environmentally friendly.

Plan Your Fall Getaway ...in the Lancaster Amish Country

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Only One Country Is Food Secure

Wars, pandemics, natural disasters and changes in trade policy can disrupt food supply chains around the world, potentially endangering the lives of millions of people. A study published in Nature Food evaluated the ability of 186 countries to achieve food self-sufficiency.

To identify deficiencies between domestic food production and the dietary needs of a country’s population, the researchers relied on food production data by the United Nations, as well as the Livewell diet developed by the World Wildlife Fund, a sustainable, predominantly plant-based eating plan that focuses on seven key food groups: vegetables, fruits, legumes, starchy foods, whole grains, lean meat and fish, and nuts.

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Only Guyana was self-sufficient across the Livewell diet’s seven food groups, while China and Vietnam were self-sufficient in six groups. Only one in seven countries, mostly in Europe and South America, achieved self-sufficiency in five or more food groups, and one-third of all countries were self-sufficient in only one or two groups. Six countries, primarily in the Middle East, did not meet the needs of any food group. When grouped as an economic region, the United States, Canada and Mexico were deemed self-sufficient in five food groups.

Packing School Lunch With Zero Waste

Families that rely on single-use plastics and prepackaged foods for their children’s lunches often overlook the tremendous amount of daily waste they generate. With a few easy swaps, lunch packing routines can be fun, eco-friendly rituals for the back-to-school season. By replacing disposable plastics with reusable alternatives and adding a few homemade snacks, parents can save money and safeguard kids’ health while reducing landfill waste. Here are some excellent options.

Reusable Containers, Wraps

and Cutlery

• Stainless steel lunchboxes

• Compartmentalized bento boxes made of wood or stainless steel

• Leakproof and dishwasher-safe silicone pouches

• Cloth or compostable snack bags for dry goods such as nuts or pretzels

• Repurposed glass jars with lids for drinks, hummus or applesauce

• Stainless steel water bottles that keep liquids hot or cold for extended periods of time

• Beeswax wraps or soybean-based “wax” paper to secure sandwiches

• Reusable cutlery and chopsticks made of stainless steel and bamboo

• Biodegradable and compostable cutlery made of renewable starch sources such as corn or cassava

Bulk Foods and Homemade Snacks

• Nuts and seeds, dried fruits, trail mix, crackers, healthy chips and granola from bulk bins

• Sandwiches on whole grain breads made from scratch with fresh, healthy ingredients

• Locally sourced, seasonal produce and bread from the farmers market for a lighter carbon footprint

• Easy parfaits made with milk- or plant-based yogurt, chopped fruits, nuts, flax or chia seeds and a drizzle of local honey

• Wraps made with soft tortillas, lettuce or cabbage leaves, or nori sheets filled with yummy fresh ingredients such as sautéed or shredded raw vegetables, nut butters, bananas, Medjool dates, soft cheeses, olives or hummus

• Homemade energy bars packed with healthy ingredients, including oats, protein powder, dark chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit and maple syrup

Eco-Friendly Totes

• Fun and colorful cloth totes purchased new or at thrift stores

• Recycled insulated lunch bags

• Organic cotton lunch bags

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Connecting Community With Yogic Tradition

Kula Kamala Ashram Offers Universal Teachings and Restorative Practices

by Trella Dubetz

Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Berks County, Kula Kamala Ashram is quietly reshaping what it means to live a spiritual life in today’s world. More than just a yoga center, the ashram serves as a nonprofit sanctuary for community, wellness and inclusive spiritual exploration.

Founded in 2015 by Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati, affectionately known as SwaminiJi, and her husband (now deceased) Ed RamaChandra Allitt, the ashram is a registered 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing contemplative practices and spiritual education accessible to all. “We are an interfaith, inclusive space rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma—a universal perspective of truth, goodness, service and nonviolence. We accept everyone, and everything we do comes from a calling to make our circle of the world more welcoming and less intimidating,” explains SwaminiJi.

SwaminiJi and her late husband, originally from New Jersey, were spiritually called to build the ashram, a journey that took them unexpectedly to Berks County. “We were searching for land when he was diagnosed with cancer,” SwaminiJi shares. “Though it slowed us down, he wanted to see our dream realized.”

A pivotal moment came when the couple adopted a dog named Laddo from the Humane Society of Berks County. “We were taken by the land out here,” she notes. “Then one day, amidst a snowstorm, we found an old elementary school on

eBay. We drove out to see it, and the property turned out to be just around the corner from where we had adopted Laddo. It was clear—this is where we were meant to be.” RamaChandra passed away in 2018, but not before witnessing the early years of the ashram take root.

Since then, Kula Kamala Ashram has flourished into a multifaceted center offering yoga, spiritual education and wellness programs with a dedication to the local, regional and global communities. Outreach efforts have included services for the Berks County breast cancer community and mental health organizations like Dayspring LLC, as well as Albright College and Wernersville State Hospital. The ashram has also collaborated with local schools and shelters, and now offers retreats in Ireland and India.

One of the most beloved offerings at Kula Kamala is kirtan—a call-and-response chanting practice rooted in yogic tradition. “The music and mantras are filled with messages of love and peace,” SwaminiJi observes. “As we chant, we witness people relax—their faces and nervous systems soften. It’s transformative.”

SwaminiShraddhanandaSaraswati

For those seeking quiet contemplation, the ashram offers more than just indoor programs. Serene outdoor spaces—including a koi pond, labyrinth and several meditation nooks—are open to the public free of charge. “The silence is so important,” SwaminiJi emphasizes. “We offer silent retreats where people go deeper into the experience of quiet and stillness.”

In its effort to stay aligned with sustainable living, the ashram is increasingly off-grid. Two geodesic greenhouses support food production, and new solar panels being installed this month will generate up to 130 percent of its energy needs. The grounds are smoke-free, meat-free and pet-free to maintain harmony with nature and guests. Food plays a central role in the community. The Food for All Café, open on Sundays, serves a gluten-free, vegan meal inspired by Ayurvedic principles—offered by donation.

Soon the ashram will offer a Wellness Room, which will include access to a massage chair, cryotherapy lounge, biomat and infrared sauna. A salt room is scheduled to open next year. These services will be available to the public by reservation.

PROOF

For those in Berks County and beyond, Kula Kamala Ashram stands as a reminder that spiritual growth and community support can be embraced through universal values, shared intention and acts rooted in compassion.

For more information about Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati and Kula Kamala Foundation & Yoga Ashram, located at 17 Basket Rd. in Reading,

call 484-509-5073 ext. 1 or visit KulaKamalaFoundation.org. See ads, pages 4 and 58.

Trella Dubetz is a trauma-informed bodyworker, holistic and human design practitioner, graphic designer and writer based in Lancaster and Huntingdon counties. She blends creativity with healing practices to support personal transformation. Connect with her at TrellaDubetz.com.

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Kula Kamala Ashram operates with a team of soon-to-be nine staff members, all working to foster an atmosphere of compassion and restoration, supported by volunteers. Community members are welcome to help in the garden, assist with housekeeping or provide administrative support. “Everything we offer is by donation, with very few exceptions,” says SwaminiJi.

“In the depth of our hearts, every one of us is looking for ways to connect—with ourselves, with Source and with each other,” SwaminiJi reflects. “We offer not only insights into ourselves and all beings, but also moments of peace, recovery and healing. This is a place for restoration.”

Our all-female team provides personalized, hands-on care— focused on your whole body, from head to pelvis and beyond. We empower you with education and resources for lasting wellness.

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Walking can RESTORE YOU by promoting alignment, circulation, core‑pelvic coordination, and overall well being. Use your breath—inhale to lengthen, exhale to lift and engage your core— as you move. A daily, upright walk supports posture and re‑awakens neural‑muscular path ways, helping reset your whole‑body foundation.

Balancing the Gut

Investing in Our Inner Ecosystem

by Hannah Tytus

“The gut is the first to encounter the universe, and it is the first line of defense between you and the universe,” says Dr. Madiha Saeed, a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell. Home to trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes, the digestive tract forms a complex ecosystem known as the gut microbiome, which influences many aspects of health.

Microbes perform numerous functions. They help break down food, produce essential nutrients, support the immune system and influence mood, cognition and overall well-being. Diet, stress, sleep, medications and environmental exposures shape the makeup of our gut microbiota, which, in turn, impact the body’s propensity for health or disease. Efforts to restore and nurture gut health offer opportunities for us to enhance our well-being through simple lifestyle changes.

Gut Microbiome Basics

The intestinal environment is constantly changing, with new microbes entering and others disappearing daily, creating a dynamic community of tiny organisms that is unique to every individual. Different species have specialized roles. For instance, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii lowers inflammation by nourishing gut cells, while Akkermansia muciniphila maintains the gut lining by breaking down mucus and supporting helpful bacteria. Each person hosts approximately 1,000 distinct microbial species, while humanity collectively harbors more than 10,000 species.

Like a garden, the gut microbiome contains a mix of helpful and harmful organisms. Beneficial microbes behave like healthy plants, supporting digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function. When cared for, these helpful organisms thrive, while also helping to keep harmful microbes (weeds) under control.

Our intestinal garden is shaped by how it is tended. Fiber-rich foods, fermented products and exposure to natural environments help nourish the good microbes, much like water, sunlight and compost nourish plants. By contrast, processed foods, excessive sugar and unnecessary antibiotics can disrupt the balance and allow harmful microbes to take over.

Many people experience gut imbalance, or dysbiosis, without realizing it. The gut is highly sensitive to its environment, and everyday choices like processed foods, medications and chronic stress can quietly disrupt the inner balance, making it harder for beneficial microbes to thrive.

Medications. “Though some medications can save your life, they do come with a side disadvantage, so you need to weigh your risks versus the benefits when it comes to taking any medications,” Saeed advises, noting that antibiotics, for example, reduce microbial diversity and richness, causing short-term changes in the microbiome. While most people recover within two months, their microbiota diversity and productivity may remain low, and some people may experience longer-lasting disruptions.

Common painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen can also interact with

the composition and function of the gut microbiome. They inhibit microbial growth, induce microbial cell death and increase gut permeability. NSAIDs can also interact with gut microbes, thereby impacting how well the drug is absorbed.

Foods. The food we eat significantly impacts the microbiome’s composition and metabolism. “Real foods nourish the good bugs, while processed foods fuel the bad,” says Saeed. Diets high in processed foods, sugars and additives create a toxic load that disrupts bacterial balance and triggers inflammation, leading to chronic disease. Eating these kinds of ingredients on a consistent basis can slowly damage the gut, as harmful microbes crowd out beneficial species, weakening the intestinal ecosystem over time without immediate signs of distress.

Stress. Chronic stress is another gut health disruptor. Stress hormones can reduce beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia muciniphila, which has been identified as a potential protector against obesity and Type 1 diabetes. Stress also encourages yeast overgrowth, leading to inflammation and intensifying the stress response in a vicious cycle. Studies also show that stress, whether physical or perceived, can alter overall microbial composition.

A 2018 narrative review published in Frontiers in Microbiology analyzed existing preclinical studies and found that various psychological, environmental and physical stressors can alter gut microbiota composition and function. Furthermore, a 2023 systematic review published in Neuropsychobiology found that higher perceived stress was associated with lower microbial diversity and decreased abundance of beneficial genera such as Lachnospira, Veillonella and Phascolarctobacterium. Harmful bacteria like Methanobrevibacter rose in relative abundance in stressed individuals.

Signs of Imbalance

Indications of an unhealthy gut show up in various ways. Digestive issues such as bloating, gas and constipation often signal an imbalance. Fatigue, mood swings and skin conditions like acne or eczema may also

Repairing the Gut Lining

by Hannah Tytus

Dr. Madiha Saeed, a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell, stresses that repairing the gut lining is key for nutrient absorption. She recommends foods rich in zinc; vitamins A, C and D; vitamin E; and selenium to reduce inflammation. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, often found in fish, help reduce inflammation and support the gut lining. Digestive enzymes found in fruits and vegetables such as avocados, pineapples, papayas, mangoes and bananas break down food, reducing intestinal inflammation. L-glutamine, found in bone broth, animal proteins, spinach, red cabbage and parsley, helps preserve the gut lining.

RossHelen/CanvaPro

be related to poor gut health. Unexplained weight changes, cognitive problems and food sensitivities may be caused by intestinal distress. A weakened immune system, trouble sleeping and bad breath can also indicate a need for gut support.

Repairing the Gut

Environmental factors influence the microbiome more than genetics, but when the gut has been harmed, Saeed explains, restoration takes more than just a probiotic.

Eat organic whole foods. “Food is medicine. Every bite can either help or hurt,” counsels Saeed, emphasizing the importance of daily food choices. Like humans, gut microbes need nourishment to thrive. When they eat well, human health flourishes. The typical Western diet is high in simple carbohydrates and fat, but low in fiber, offering little nourishment for beneficial microbes.

On the other hand, microbiota-accessible carbohydrates (MACs) such as legumes, root vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds are essential for a diverse and resilient microbial community. Because MACs are not broken down by digestive enzymes, they are fermented by gut microbes, feeding and promoting the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria.

Choosing organic produce helps avoid synthetic pesticides and herbicides sprayed on produce to eliminate pests and weeds. These chemicals have been shown to

negatively affect the gut microbiome and human health. “It’s best to eat local food that is not sprayed,” advises Dr. Patrick Hanaway, a board-certified functional medicine family physician, educator and chief medical officer of KnoWEwell.

Supplement wisely. Probiotics and prebiotics are vital for healing the gut. Probiotics, whether found in foods like yogurt and other fermented products or taken as supplements, introduce live bacteria into the body. Prebiotics act like fertilizer, feeding good bacteria and helping restore overall balance. Fiber-rich foods such as asparagus, bananas, garlic, onions, oats, apples and legumes naturally support a thriving gut ecosystem.

As Hanaway explains, “A probiotic is a live bacteria that can be ingested and move into the stomach and populate the body. A prebiotic is a component that helps feed the commensal [beneficial] bacteria in the gut. Probiotics are highly specific. They have great benefits for specific strains for specific diseases in specific doses. Yet, the probiotic is a tourist; it doesn’t stay in the body. It’s great to have tourists in the economy, but if an economy becomes entirely dependent on tourism, it becomes a problem.”

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When choosing supplements, quality matters. Due to limited regulations, it is best to purchase from reputable brands. Supplements in fillable capsules tend to have fewer fillers and more active ingredients. Vitamins and minerals are best absorbed from whole foods, so supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet.

Start a garden. Gardening increases the availability of fresh, fiber-rich, seasonal fruits and vegetables in the diet, but the very act of putting our hands in the dirt may also help increase the diversity of our gut microbiome. A 2022 cohort study of 19 families over one growing season by scientists at the University of Illinois and published in the journal Nature found that when compared to non-gardeners, families that grew plants and produce in their backyards had more gut bacteria linked to fiber fermentation, greater microbial diversity and even some microbes in their guts that appeared to come from the

soil. Families that gardened also ate more fiber-rich foods.

Commit to small actions. Healthy microbiomes grow with consistent care—not perfection—and even small lifestyle changes can build a more resilient ecosystem for better overall health. There is no magic bullet for healing the gut. The key is to commit one hour a week to health education and to small actions focused on rebuilding the inner ecosystem one change at a time.

“A strictly-diet approach isn’t the answer; a lifestyle approach is,” says Dr. Tom O’Bryan, an expert on food sensitivities, environmental toxins and the development of autoimmune diseases, as well as the host of the Regenerative Whole Health Show at KnoWEwell.com. “Dietary regimens can go only so far if something else persists, like mold in the house, high glyphosate levels or accumulated mercury in the body.” Addressing the macrocosm around us helps fix the microcosm inside us.

Indoor air filtration and water purification measures might be necessary to counteract an unhealthy indoor environment. Small changes like storing leftover food in glass rather than plastic can help keep harmful compounds out of the gut. Herbs such as chamomile and holy basil in diffusers and teas may aid the chronically stressed. Even simply chewing our food slowly, with mindfulness and gratitude, can help aid the digestion process.

The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem that plays an essential role in overall health. Understanding what it is, what harms it and how to recognize signs of imbalance empowers us to take practical steps to restore and maintain gut health. By nourishing the microbiome with whole foods, managing stress, using supplements wisely and embracing small lifestyle changes, individuals can cultivate a resilient inner garden that supports well-being for life.

Hannah Tytus is a researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and former technical writer for the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Gut Restorative Yoga

Poses That Bridge the Gut-Brain Axis

by Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN

The gut, often called the second brain, plays a pivotal role in not only digestion, but also immune function and mental well-being. With a growing body of research exploring the gut-brain axis, many are turning to yoga not just as a physical discipline, but as a therapeutic modality to support gut vitality.

Yoga traditionally involves eight components, including postures, breath control, concentration and meditation. The yoga postures can be practiced in many ways, from flowing sequences and strengthening postures to very slow stretches that can be held for minutes at a time, focusing on breath and meditation simultaneously.

The Science Behind the Stretch Emerging evidence suggests that yoga may positively influence gastrointestinal health by modulating the autonomic nervous system. Through its emphasis on breathwork and relaxation, yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system—often referred to as the rest-and-digest mode—helping to promote digestion and reduce stress, a known aggravator of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as those experienced with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

A 2015 12-week, randomized, controlled trial published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine demonstrated significant improvements in IBS symptoms, anxiety, physical flexibility and autonomic function in patients practicing a gentle form of yoga compared to controls.

Yoga for Digestion

Certain yoga poses specifically support digestive function. According to the Indian yoga teacher B.K.S. Iyengar in his seminal book,

Light on Yoga, twists such as ardha matsyendrasana (half lord of the fishes) and supta matsyendrasana (supine spinal twist) gently compress and massage abdominal organs, stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract and encouraging waste elimination. Forward folds like paschimottanasana (seated forward bend) can soothe the nervous system while enhancing circulation to digestive organs.

Practicing viparita karani (legs up the wall) after meals may promote lymphatic drainage and calm inflammation, especially when paired with diaphragmatic breathing. Virasana (hero pose) after eating can also support digestion and, because the spine is upright in this posture, is ideal for those with acid reflux.

“When supporting clients with digestive concerns, I incorporate yoga postures and breathwork to encourage healthy, balanced digestion,” explains Katie Mullins Denk, a yoga instructor, Ayurvedic health counselor and owner of Moonflower Studio, in Brookfield, Wisconsin. “Apanasana (knees to chest) helps relieve gas and bloating; supta matsyendrasana (supine spinal twist), malasana (garland or yogi squat) and surya bhedana (right nostril breathing) help stimulate elimination. Lying on the left side after meals—a version of savasana (final rest or corpse pose)—supports digestion

through rest and relaxation. These simple, intentional practices create space for healing from within.”

Mind-Gut Connection

Yoga’s impact extends beyond posture. Mindfulness practices such as pranayama (breath control) and dhyana (meditation) cultivate interoception—the ability to sense internal bodily states. This deepened awareness can promote healthier eating habits, support mindful digestion and reduce overeating. Mullins shares, “Uttanasana (standing forward fold), seated forward fold and nadi shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) help calm the nervous system.”

Chronic stress is a major disruptor of gut flora, and yoga has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. A calm mind often translates into a calmer gut. Digestive health can be tied to the body’s natural circadian rhythm. By practicing sun salutations or flowing yoga postures in the morning, the metabolism is gently awakened, and by incorporating restorative yoga or stretches in the evening, we signal our body to wind down naturally.

An Integrative Approach

As an integrative tool, yoga complements both conventional and alternative therapies for gut health. It works synergistically

with dietary modifications, probiotics and functional medicine interventions. For individuals navigating gastrointestinal disorders—from bloating and constipation to chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease—yoga offers a noninvasive, accessible practice with minimal side effects.

Yoga practice was found to improve constipation and sleep quality in a 2021 randomized, controlled trial with elderly adults published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. A 2019 systemic review and meta-analysis in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that mindfulness interventions including yoga reduced stress and improved depression and quality of life in participants with irritable bowel disease.

Gut vitality is foundational to overall well-being. Yoga, with its blend of movement, breath and mindfulness, offers a holistic path to digestive harmony. Whether practiced in a studio, on a living room floor or during a midday break, it invites each person to tune into their body’s wisdom and support the healing journey from the inside out.

Jordan Peschek has a background in personal training, yoga instruction and mental health nursing. She publishes the Milwaukee and Twin Cities editions of Natural Awakenings.

Precise and Effective Care for Chronic Pain and Disability

Restoring Clients to Greater Health and Mobility With Dr. Tracey Ramirez

by Trella Dubetz

After years of living with chronic pain and facing medical issues with few solutions in sight, Dr. Tracey Ramirez turned her personal journey into a professional mission: to help others reclaim their quality of life through specialized, compassionate care.

Now practicing in Lancaster at Restored Balance Upper Cervical Center, Ramirez offers a unique combination of chiropractic techniques, soft tissue therapies and a movement-based program she devel-

oped herself—Myostretching, specifically tailored for patients dealing with complex, chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and EhlersDanlos syndrome.

“I don’t cure anything,” Ramirez explains. “But I help the body maximize its ability to function. That looks different for each person, depending on their history, injuries or what they were born with. But everyone deserves the chance to feel better.”

From the Sidelines to the Clinic

Before becoming a chiropractor, Ramirez worked as a medical massage therapist. Her early experience included working with professional athletes, including the Hershey Bears hockey team. She also worked with celebrity performers on Dancing With the Stars and found satisfaction in helping them optimize performance and maximize their mobility.

Ramirez has over 25 years’ experience helping people optimize their ability to perform, optimize their health and reduce chronic pain issues.

A Turning Point

But it wasn’t until Ramirez herself became bedridden with chronic pain that her career path took a deeper turn, and a doctor told her bluntly, “This is your life. Learn to live with it.”

“I prayed, went back to my earlier training and developed Myostretching, a neuromuscular rehabilitation program,” Ramirez relays. “That program got me out of bed, back to school and back to living.”

Ramirez holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Sport Psychology from California Uni-

versity of Pennsylvania. She later earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College, in Florida, where she specialized in gentle, neurologically focused techniques.

“I figured if I was going to go back to school at 50, I might as well study on the beach,” she jokes. “But more importantly, I met practitioners and techniques that changed my health and deepened my understanding of chronic pain.”

Gentle Techniques for Sensitive Bodies

Now based in Lancaster, Ramirez brings those specialized methods to a region where she believes they are desperately needed.

“This area has one of the highest populations of fibromyalgia in the country— Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware,” she shares. “I would like to serve this community and give them options to enjoy a life with less pain and more energy.”

Traditional chiropractic techniques, such as twisting or forceful adjustments, may not be appropriate for patients with chronic conditions or connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Ramirez uses low-force, neurologically based techniques including Grostic Upper Cervical, Torque Release, Activator and the Jackson CCJ Method. She is one of a few newly trained Upper Cervical Neurology practitioners in the U.S.

“These approaches are precise, methodical and safe,” she explains. “They’re designed to restore communication in the nervous system and help the body realign without triggering additional stress.”

Ramirez combines chiropractic care with techniques like John Barnes Myofascial Release, CranioSacral Therapy (primarily for infants with issues like tongue-ties and torticollis) and her own Myostretching program.

“Myostretching helps coordinate the tissues of the body and the nervous system to work as a team,” she adds. “It helps people with Ehlers-Danlos, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue start to regain function. Many patients get 60 percent improvement in only six weeks.”

Rooted in Experience

Ramirez’s approach is deeply rooted in her recovery. “I’ve lived this,” she emphasizes. “I’m not someone who has always had great health. I’ve been disabled. I’ve been misunderstood by the system. And I’ve found what works.” Now, she wants the Restored Balance Upper Cervical Center to be a place where others can find the same hope and support.

“We offer more than treatment—we offer advocacy,” Ramirez notes. “Each patient is unique. I listen to their stories, understand what has or hasn’t worked and move forward together from there.”

Relax

With her extensive education and certifications in gentle, precise and effective techniques, Ramirez is building a bridge between evidence-based practice and deeply personal healing.

“I think of myself as a chronic pain conqueror,” she declares. “And I want others to feel like they can be, too.”

For more information about Tracey Ramirez, DC, MS, and Restored Balance Upper Cervical Center, located at 2227 Dutch Gold Dr., in Lancaster, call 223-3650485 or visit RestoredBalanceCenter.com. See ads, pages 29 and 54.

Trella Dubetz is a trauma-informed bodyworker, holistic and human design practitioner, graphic designer and writer based in Lancaster and Huntingdon counties. She blends creativity with healing practices to support personal transformation. Connect with her at TrellaDubetz.com.

Lymphatic

Acupuncture

Infrared

Oral Health Benefits of Yoga

Surprising Ways to Improve a Smile

by Marlaina Donato

An estimated 42 percent of adults aged 30 and above are affected by periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease. For some, the condition manifests as mild, reversible gingivitis, while others experience a more progressive form that can lead to bone loss.

Beyond its effects in the mouth, gum disease is strongly associated with chronic inflammatory conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and arthritis. A study conducted by the University of Toronto in 2020 found that the body’s immune response to gum disease can trigger a hyper-inflammatory response that can negatively impact healthy tissues and organs.

Good oral hygiene and regular cleanings with a dental professional are the principle ways to prevent and treat gum disease. However, new findings suggest that stress management techniques such as mindfulness and yogic practices, combined with conventional treatments, may be the future of whole-body periodontal care and another good reason to get on the yoga mat.

Research published this year in BMC Oral Health reported that elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol may impact periodontal health by making the gums more susceptible to infection and inflammation. Stress may also lead to lapses in oral hygiene.

Benefits of Yoga

“In itself, inflammation isn’t a bad thing— it’s how the body protects and heals itself after injury, illness or exposure to harmful substances. But when that inflammatory response doesn’t turn off due to physical or emotional stress, the body stays in a constant state of defense, even when there’s no real threat present,” explains yoga teacher Jamie LiCausi, owner of Empowered Alignment Holistic Healing Hub, in Hawley, Pennsylvania. “Many of us live in a constant state of low-grade stress without even realizing it. Yoga isn’t just about finding your zen; it quite literally rewires your nervous system to help you handle stress differently.”

A 2023 systemic review published in the Journal of International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry found promising potential for yoga to improve periodontal health by reducing systemic stress reactions and periodontal disease risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension.

Dr. Amy Dayries, an integrative dentist in Roswell, Georgia, and host of KnoWEwell’s monthly online show, Healthcare From Your Dentist’s Chair, asserts that yoga can reduce stress-induced teeth grinding, mouth breathing and poor posture promoted by modern lifestyles. Relying on mouth breathing rather than nose breathing can lead to sleep apnea, dry mouth and

a misaligned bite, which, if left untreated, may cause tooth decay and gum disease. “Dentally speaking, we see increases in gum inflammation and increased cavity risk because the oral microbiome changes as the body chemistry changes in a stressed state,” she remarks, adding that stress chemicals can remain elevated for many years after the initial stressful event.

The tongue can also play a critical role. According to Dayries, we usually have a low tongue posture (resting on the floor of the mouth instead of the roof) when we slouch, and this bad habit can ramp up the sympathetic nervous system, thereby triggering stress. She recommends a variety of yoga exercises, including hatha yoga tongue exercises, as part of a patient's dental treatment plan to ease muscle and emotional tension, support stronger posture and decrease mouth breathing. Such exercises may include placing the tip of the tongue against the roof of the mouth behind the top front teeth, suctioning the rest of the tongue flat against the roof of the mouth, closing the mouth and breathing through the nose.

The Power of the Breath

Pranayama yoga and diaphragmatic breathing can reset the nervous system in a gentle way. “Many of us breathe shallowly into the chest, which means the lower parts of the lungs—the areas where air can become

• Safe removal of mercury fillings

• Laser gum treatments

• Tooth-colored restorations

• Treatments for sleep apnea & snoring • Solutions for TMJ, facial pain and headaches

• Tooth whitening

• Mouth Guards • Orthodontics ...and more

stagnant—don’t get fully ventilated. Over time, that stagnant air holds onto carbon dioxide and other waste gases,” says LiCausi. “When we breathe deeply using the diaphragm, we help move that stale air out. Fresh oxygen circulates through the lungs, nourishing the body, while each exhale clears out toxins and waste.”

Dayries advises that yoga helps us to counterbalance modern lifestyle activities that promote a forward posture. “This is because yoga is centered around one’s breath and holding postural stances, wringing out the lymphatic system through stretching, strengthening and asanas [body postures].” Most of all, she points out, even when oral health problems are in motion, such as gum disease, there is hope to halt things where they are, even if some bone loss is evident. “It is never too late to implement healthy changes,” she says.

Marlaina Donato is an author, musician and painter. Connect at WildflowersAnd WoodSmoke.com.

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Sweet and Tart

The Joys of Homemade Fruit Shrubs

by Chloe Karydes Krecun

Afruit shrub is a sweet and tart syrup made by combining fruit, sugar and vinegar. Used for centuries as a way to keep nutrients alive, these tangy, fermented syrups are becoming popular again as irresistible additions to cocktails and mocktails, while also contributing to gut health.

Long before fruit shrubs became a trendy addition to modern beverages, fermenting fruits in alcohol or vinegar was one of humanity’s oldest preser-

them from spoiling,” explains Lea Ann Chen, M.D., assistant professor of gastroenterology at the Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. “However, the total amount of fruit in shrub recipes is relatively modest. Thus, the benefits of eating fresh fruits would be much higher. For example, fresh whole fruit contains fiber, which has many health benefits, but this is mostly missing in shrubs.”

When winter’s grip tightened and fresh produce became scarce, these preserved fruits provided delicious flavors and vital nutrients. Today’s food enthusiasts celebrate fruit shrubs for their complexity and versatility in everything from sodas to salads and other inventive side dishes.

Health Benefits

Each ingredient in a fruit shrub plays a distinct role in both preservation and nutrition. “The vinegar component in shrubs is what helps preserve the fruits and keep

Chen notes that the fruit in shrubs is nevertheless a source of certain vitamins, such as vitamin C in citrus fruits, while berries are also high in polyphenols, which offer anti-inflammatory properties. A 2021 Stanford University study published in the journal Cell found that consuming fermented foods may increase gut microbiome diversity and decrease inflammation, so the fermentation of fruit shrubs may be part of a gut-healthy diet.

Rimma_Bondarenko from Getty Images/CanvaPro

According to Kirsten Shockey, the author of several books on fermentation, including Fermented Vegetables, fruit shrubs and mocktails serve as a practical steppingstone toward healthier drink choices. They offer a middle ground for those seeking to improve their habits by steering away from soda and alcoholic beverages without making dramatic changes.

Fermenting Tips

Creating gut-friendly fruit shrubs at home requires nothing more than fresh fruit, sugar, vinegar and patience. Morgan Shortt, sales director at Pink House Alchemy, a maker of farm-to-table simple syrups, aromatic bitters and shrubs, explains that the sugar breaks down the fruit and naturally turns it into a thick, viscous syrup without having to smash the fruit. This natural maceration process allows the sugar to draw out fruit juices and flavors over the course of a couple of days.

Once macerated, the fruit is strained through cheesecloth or a coffee filter. The syrup can be used immediately as a topping on desserts or savory dishes. To make it last longer and add the tart taste, vinegar is incorporated. Almost any type can be used, depending on personal taste. White vinegar is intensely sharp; apple cider vinegar provides a mild, fruity flavor; and balsamic can add depth to berry shrubs with only a splash. The higher the quality of vinegar, the better the results, Shockey points out.

Although fruit shrubs are shelf stable, the shelf life varies depending on the ingredients. Shortt estimates that her shrubs have a shelf life of at least two years. Refrigeration can help maintain the quality and flavor for a longer period of time.

Enjoying the Results

Shrubs offer a practical solution for reducing food waste. They are a good way to use seasonal fruits that may be bruised or

considered a farmer’s seconds. “The key takeaway is that it’s an easy and affordable way to consume a gut-healthy product, and it’s delicious,” says Shortt.

For those preferring convenience over homemade preparation, shrubs are increasingly available at farmers markets, health food stores and online. When purchasing, prioritize products containing raw, unpasteurized vinegar and minimal added sugar while checking for clean-ingredient labels. Premixed shrub drinks are also available in ready-to-consume cans or bottles for the ultimate in convenience.

Shrubs represent a delicious intersection of ancient preservation wisdom and modern wellness needs. Whether crafted at home or purchased ready-made, these tangy syrups offer a simple way to support gut health while adding flavor to drinks and recipes.

Chloe Karydes Krecun is a sophomore at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Connect at LinkedIn.com/in/ chloe-karydes-krecun.

Fruit Shrub Recipes

A fruit shrub—a tangy, sweet drinking vinegar—is a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy seasonal flavors. Easy to prepare, shrubs are delicious in sparkling water, cocktails or as a drizzle over salads and desserts.

BASIC SHRUB RECIPE

YIELD: ABOUT 2-2½ CUPS, 20-40 SERVINGS

Ingredients

2 cups fresh fruit

1 cup sugar (white, brown or coconut; use less if substituting honey or maple syrup)

1 cup vinegar (apple cider, wine, rice, white, or balsamic in smaller amounts)

Preheat the oven to 400° F.

Whisk all the vinaigrette ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.

Toss the sweet potato cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Spread sweet potato cubes on a baking pan

Preparation

Mash fruit with sugar in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate 24 hours.

Strain, then stir in vinegar.

Transfer to a glass jar and chill 2–3 days before using. Use 1-2 tablespoons per serving.

Flavor Pairings

Strawberry + balsamic + basil

Peach + champagne vinegar + rosemary

Pineapple + rice vinegar + ginger

Orange + white wine vinegar + thyme

Watermelon + white balsamic + mint

Apple + cider vinegar + cinnamon

Pomegranate + red wine vinegar + cardamom

Shrubs will keep in the refrigerator for several weeks, ready to brighten drinks or enhance our favorite recipes.

FARRO SALAD WITH APPLE SPICE SHRUB

YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS

FOR THE VINAIGRETTE

2 Tbsp apple spice shrub

2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp Dijon mustard

½ tsp raw honey or maple syrup

1 squeeze of orange, optional Sea salt, to taste

Fresh black pepper, to taste

FOR THE SALAD

1 cup cooked farro

1 sweet potato, cubed Extra-virgin olive oil for roasting

A few kale leaves, chopped 2-3 cups salad greens

lined with parchment paper and roast until golden brown, about 35 minutes. Once roasted, let the sweet potato cubes cool.

In a large bowl, lightly massage the kale with a bit of the vinaigrette until the kale wilts down. Mix in the farro and sweet potato cubes. Add the salad greens, carrots,

1-2 carrots, peeled into ribbons

1 apple, diced

A few radishes, sliced thin

Small handful parsley, chopped

½ cup almonds, chopped and toasted

Salt, to taste

Fresh black pepper, to taste

apple, radishes, parsley and almonds to the bowl and toss with vinaigrette. Add additional salt and pepper, to taste.

Recipe courtesy of Priscilla Koch, founder of The Urban Farmhouse Co., makers of organic shrub beverages.

From Butterflies to Balance

Easing the Back-to-School Transition with Heart

by Shae Marcus

Back-to-school season is a time of fresh starts—but it can also be one of heightened emotions, especially for children navigating big transitions. For parents, it may seem like a simple shift in routine, but for kids, these early weeks are filled with unknowns. Whether it’s starting kindergarten after the comfort of preschool, jumping into middle school’s social maze or stepping into the larger world of high school, change can be both exciting and intimidating.

The emotional landscape often includes a mix of anticipation, anxiety, hope and even grief for what’s being left behind. Add new teachers, unfamiliar classmates, changing friend groups and mounting academic expectations and it’s easy to see why this time can feel overwhelming for young minds and hearts. As parents and caregivers, we have an opportunity to offer grounding, compassion and intentional support to help our children feel safe and confident as they step into a new school year.

positive affirmation taped to the bathroom mirror or a special “mindful moment” while eating breakfast. Even five intentional minutes can transform stress into centeredness—for both kids and parents.

2 Talk About the Transition (and Normalize the Nerves)

Transitions are big emotional milestones. If a child is entering a new school, don’t be surprised if their excitement is laced with uncertainty. Validate their feelings—whether it’s nervousness about new teachers, sadness about old friends or hesitation to join clubs where they don’t yet know anyone. Openended questions like, “What part of the day do you feel most unsure about?” can invite connection without pressure. Remind them it’s okay to feel all the feelings and that making new connections takes time.

3Fuel Their Brain (and Mood) with Smart Snacks

1Start with a Mindful Morning Routine

Mornings set the tone for the entire day. Instead of racing the clock, create a calming routine that grounds the child emotionally and physically. This could include deep belly breaths together before leaving the house, a

Nutrition plays a huge role in energy, attention span and emotional regulation. Stock lunchboxes and after-school snack drawers with foods rich in omega-3s, fiber and healthy fats. Think almond butter on apple slices, hummus with veggie sticks or a smoothie with chia seeds and spinach. Keep blood sugar balanced to help minimize mood swings and mid-day crashes.

4 Watch for Signs of Burnout or Overload

While some stress is normal, chronic school stress can show up as irritability, stomachaches, sleep disturbances or withdrawal. Keep an eye on the child’s overall mood and energy levels, especially in the first month back. If they’re overbooked with activities, consider simplifying their schedule. More doesn’t always mean better—especially when it comes to their mental health.

5 Create a Calm Home Base

School is stimulating, and kids need a sanctuary to unwind. Create a homework or relaxation space that encourages peace and focus. Incorporate calming elements like essential oils (lavender or orange are great for kids), a soft rug or cushion and low lighting. Even adding a small indoor plant or a few crystals like fluorite or amethyst can help create a grounding atmosphere.

Every child experiences the stress of going back to school differently, and there’s no perfect formula for navigating it. But by staying connected, slowing down and prioritizing emotional wellness, children can feel safer, supported and seen. And that’s the best foundation for any school year to begin.

Shae Marcus is a mother of two teens, publisher of Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia, and an expert in sticky counters and excessive dog hair. She believes back-to-school is a transition for parents as well. Between forgotten lunches and teenage eye rolls, may we find grace in the mess, laughter in the chaos and connection in the quiet moments. Presence, not perfection, is the true back-to-school essential.

A Life ChangingSmile Can Be Yours!

Childhood Friendships

How To Support a Kid’s Social Development

by Christina Connors

Supporting a child’s social development today means setting aside outdated assumptions. What once felt simple, like walking up and saying “Hi” on the playground, may require emotional scaffolding today. Kids face a more complex and often emotionally charged social world, so the way we guide them needs to evolve, too.

Joanna Faber and Julie King, co-authors of the bestselling books How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen and How to Talk When Kids Won’t Listen, offer a compassionate framework for supporting children through friendship conflicts. “In the moment that a child is in distress over a social slight, the first thing we can do for them is to offer quiet sympathy instead of a game plan and a pep talk,” they write. “Sometimes just a sympathetic sound is enough. Resist the urge to lecture, ask questions, or give advice. … Your restraint in not jumping in with questions and advice shows trust in your child’s ability to manage her own relationships.”

This gentle, emotionally attuned approach is backed by child mental health experts who emphasize that emotional safety is the foundation of healthy social development. “Children thrive when

they feel seen and heard,” says Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a clinical psychologist and integrative pediatric mental health expert. “Social skills don’t grow in a vacuum—they’re cultivated through repeated, safe interactions where kids feel supported, not judged or directed. When adults approach social challenges with calm empathy, they send the message that it’s okay to have big feelings and that mistakes are a part of learning.”

This doesn’t mean stepping back entirely. While CapannaHodge warns against the temptation to micromanage social interactions, she does suggest alternative actions. “We have to stop swooping in to fix every peer conflict,” she says. “When we do that, we unintentionally rob children of the chance to build problem-solving and coping skills. Instead, guide them gently and give them the language to express themselves. That’s what truly sets the foundation for deeper, more meaningful relationships.”

One key strategy Capanna-Hodge recommends is co-regulation, a powerful technique where adults model calm and emotional steadiness, especially when a child is dysregulated or distressed. “We talk a lot about self-regulation, but kids need co-regulation first,” she explains. “That means being the calm in their storm— breathing with them, validating their feelings and staying present without judgment. That’s how they learn to calm themselves and respond, rather than react, in social situations.”

Connection Is the Heart of Growth Friendship is not just a social bonus; it is a developmental necessity. As caregivers, educators and parents, the focus is not to orchestrate every social moment but to create the conditions where trust, empathy and connection can flourish. By modeling emotional presence, offering tools for regulation and holding space for kids to navigate the ups and downs of friendship, we empower them to build lasting, meaningful relationships. These moments of quiet support may seem small, but they build social wisdom that lasts a lifetime.

As Capanna-Hodge advises, “The best gift we can give our children is the belief that they can handle hard things, especially when it comes to friendships. When we trust them, support them and walk beside them instead of ahead, we teach them how to be kind, confident and resilient.”

As discussed in a 2017 research article published in the journal Social Development, children’s friendships and their ability to navigate them matter. Friends engage in more complicated social activities, talks, tasks, cooperation, negotiation, altruistic activities and effective conflict management. In a world that often feels fast and fragmented, the ability to build deep, authentic connections may be one of the greatest gifts we can offer the next generation.

Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinaConnors.com.

WILD ALASKAN SALMON

Ocean Harvests

Eco-Friendly Benefits of Seaweed

by Maya Whitman

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ome may associate seaweed with giant kelp forests or savory sushi wraps, but these species of multicellular marine algae have become key players in the food, cosmetic and industrial arenas. Seaweed farming around the world, including more recently in the United States, shows promise as a natural solution to climate change, ocean acidification and the plastics crisis. Such crops provide not only nutritious food for humans and animals but also chemical-free fertilizers for backyard gardens and agriculture.

“When managed and cultivated ethically in cooperation with the natural laws, just like land farms, seaweed farms can be little vibrant plots of biodiversity and primary productivity, supporting all the powers of nature for good,” says Sarah Redmond, founder of Springtide Seaweed, in Gouldsboro, Maine, the largest organic seaweed company in the United States.

Environmental Hero

There are thousands of species of seaweed, and they thrive in areas where other marine life is failing due to ocean acidification. Their presence is a boon for the environment because they release nutrients into the ocean, while also sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, thereby reducing the effects of climate change.

As Redmond explains, “Ocean acidification is the lowering of overall pH in the oceans, which can impact all marine life, especially shell-forming organisms. Growing seaweed can help reduce the impacts of acidification locally, during the day, when the plants are taking in carbon for photosynthesis.

Some of the carbon is remineralized back into inorganic forms, some is consumed as food, some is lost as dissolved or particulate organic carbon, and some is buried in sediments at sea. All of the algae—micro and macro seaweeds—drive the ocean’s carbon cycle.”

Seaweed is introduced in aquaculture because of its ability to boost water quality and convert fish waste into usable nutrients. According to Charles Yarish, professor emeritus of marine ecology at the University of Connecticut and chief scientist with GreenWave, a global nonprofit network of regenerative ocean farmers, “Seaweed farming in the United States is principally kelp farming, and we have nutrient-rich waters. Seaweeds can reduce carbon dioxide and

nitrogen as they photosynthesize during daylight hours and take it into their biomass.”

Yarish highlights the cutting-edge efforts of Macro Oceans, in West Sacramento, California, which seeks to help the world transition away from petroleum-based products by developing eco-friendly biomaterials from seaweed for use in cosmetics, food and other industries.

Nutritional Dynamo

“Seaweeds are very nutritious, with minerals, protein and vitamin C,” says Yarish. Rich in iodine, it has been a diet staple for coastal cultures since prehistoric times, and more than 145 varieties are consumed worldwide today. Across the United States, there are dozens of farms in New England, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest that specialize in the cultivation of bull kelp, dulse, ribbon kelp and sugar kelp used in sauces, salads, seasonings and Asian cuisine.

According to Redmond, “By replacing table salt with the natural, organic mineral salts from seaweeds, we can rebalance our sodium and potassium levels and add essential micronutrients to our diets.”

Common edible seaweeds like wakame, kelp, kombu, nori and dulse are tasty additions to soups and salads that can foster good thyroid health. According to 2018 findings published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, extract of the seaweed variety Sargassum oligocystum offers anti-diabetic effects in rats and

is worthy of further research. Japanese research published in 2021 in the Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis suggests that seaweed consumption might be valuable in preventing strokes in men.

Conscious Packaging

According to CleanHub, an organization dedicated to preventing plastic pollution in our oceans, it is estimated that 95 percent of all beauty industry packaging is thrown away every year. Companies like UK-based Notpla and Kelpi, as well as Californiabased Sway, are using biodegradable seaweed bioplastics to make a difference. Similarly, the restaurant and food industries are developing options to replace singleuse plastics like containers and wraps with marine-based packages. Currently, seaweed packaging is more costly, but experts predict lower prices as technology advances.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings

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Patrick Hanaway on Healing the Whole Person

by Sandra Yeyati

Patrick Hanaway is a functional medicine family physician and educator. For more than 25 years, he has maintained a clinical practice with his wife, Dr. Lisa Lichtig, in Western North Carolina. He is board-certified in family medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Practice, as well as the American College of Nutrition.

Hanaway served as chief medical officer at Genova Diagnostics for 10 years before becoming the chief medical education officer at The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) in 2013, where he oversaw the development and implementation of IFM programs

worldwide. He has taught at the Institute since 2005 and has led the IFM Gastrointestinal (GI) Advanced Practice Module since its inception. In 2014, Hanaway helped establish the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, where he was the founding medical director and later research director. He was honored by IFM with the prestigious Linus Pauling Award in 2017 for his pioneering work.

Hanaway has been initiated as a Mara’akame (traditional healer) by the Huichol people of the Sierra Madres, in Mexico. He holds community fires, leads ceremonies and offers traditional healing sessions around the fire. He serves as the board chair of the Blue Deer Center, in the Catskill mountains of New York.

This month, Hanaway begins his newest role as chief medical officer of KnoWEwell, P.B.C., a digital community and marketplace that bridges the knowledge, access and insurance gaps to address the root causes of chronic disease. KnoWEwell owns Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation, operator of the Natural Awakenings magazine franchise system.

Could you explain how the patient-doctor relationship differs in conventional versus functional medicine settings?

Functional medicine focuses on the individual, rather than a diagnosis, aiming to understand their life story in relation to wellness and illness. We seek to identify unique triggers and rebalance the imbalances, rather than just eliminating disease symptoms. The goal is to help the person be the healthiest they can be, in balance—body, mind and spirit—which is different than the conventional medical model that targets specific symptoms.

What advice can you provide for individuals that cannot afford or find a functional medicine doctor in their area?

In those settings, I recommend working with a functional medicine coach from the Integrated Nurse Coach Academy or the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy to initiate the basic lifestyle and behavior changes. They can help determine if there needs to be additional medical care, which might include specialty testing, supplements or targeted medication under the guidance of a functional medicine doctor.

How do you see the field of gut health evolving in the next few years?

The gut plays a central role in functional medicine, and we are deepening our understanding of the functionality of the microbiome, not just with gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome, but also across all disease states, including cardiovascular, neurological and autoimmune diseases.

We’re recognizing, for example, that leakiness in the gut relates to leakiness in the blood-brain barrier and autoimmune diseases.

With respect to the microbiome, we’re finding that it’s not so much which species are there, but rather what their functions are, with roles in healing, growth, energy production, thoughts, feelings, immune function and many more. The gut-brain connection is gaining attention. We’re learning that the 10,000-plus compounds produced by the gut microbiome affect the brain, influencing cognition, behavior, emotions and inflammation.

The way I see it, the gut serves as our biggest interface with the environment, processing 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of food annually, including macronutrients and micronutrients, which are transformed by the gut microbiome and then absorbed into the body. Our focus has shifted from studying specific gut microbes to understanding their functions. The goal is to optimize gut functions rather than viewing individual organisms or probiotics as solutions.

What do you love about teaching?

It’s the work that I love the most—even more than working with individuals—because I get the opportunity to share what I’ve learned so others can carry it forward. It’s also very humbling in the process because I’ve learned how little I know. I’ve also learned that there are no bad students, only poor teachers. If a student is not understanding something, it is my responsibility and my job to help them.

As a teacher, I work to understand something to a depth that I can simplify it, and that’s what I feel is part of my gift, as well as my passion. I want to get to a point of understanding an area where it becomes simple in my mind to be able to express and talk about it. It’s not about oversimplifying; it’s just being able to make it learnable so that somebody else can carry it forward.

It’s not lost on me that the word “doctor” comes from the Latin docere, which means “to teach”. We teach each other, and I can see farther because I stand on the shoulders of giants. I’ve had people who have taken the time to help me learn and understand in a deeper way, and there’s so much appreciation. So it’s actually necessary for me

to “pay it forward”. That’s part of what my work in the world is, and I hope to continue to do that for a long time.

Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL. com/HanawayWW1 or scan the QR code. Look for part two of this conversation in our November issue.

Thomas B. Wachtmann, DC

Calendar of Events

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 and share your events for free.

Friday, September 5

First Friday Welcome Night – 6:30-9pm. Giveaways, sales, demonstrations, meet & greet and more, plus tarot and medium readings. Free; tarot $45. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

Saturday, September 6

Ice Bath with MindBody Project – 2-3:30pm. Explore the benefits of cold plunging, led by experts with from non-profit MindBody Project. $35. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. West EndYogaStudio.com.

Trauma Release Exercises – 4-5:30pm. Led by Soothe Wellness, learn and be guided by accessible movement practices that balance the nervous system. Pay what you can. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYoga Studio.com.

Save The Date

Greater Wellness Holistic Expo

80 Vendors, guest speakers, demonstrations, giveaway, Kids Corner, natural healing, alternative wellness, community connections. Admission: $10 cash at the door, $5 advance tickets (on website). Free for military and kids under 12.

September 7 · 9am-4pm

Lebanon Valley Expo Center North Hall, 80 Rocherty Rd., Lebanon. GreaterWellnessHolistics.com.

Sunday, September 7

Becoming the Creator – 10-11:30am. A biweekly class that supports you in building self-awareness, reclaiming your personal power, and creating the life of your dreams. $40. Registration requested. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. 610-763-1755. TheNestCollaborative.com.

Tuesday, September 9

Cooking Class: Latin BBQ – 6-8pm. Ages 16+. BYOB. The vibrant flavors of Latin American come to the grill for this summer BBQ class. Explore bold marinades, smoky spices, and bright, herbaceous sauces. Hands on. $95pp. Zest Cooking School,

1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Wednesday, September 10

Gentle Yoga & Spiritual Guided Meditation – 7-8:15pm. Relax into a midweek yoga and meditation series for three Wednesdays in September. Usher in the change of season with gentle yoga and a spiritual guided meditation. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster, 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com Yoga class $10 Meditation by donation.

Rooftop Yoga – 7-8pm. BLDG.7 hosts Rooftop Yoga in the heart of downtown Reading. Connect in community with other yogis and flow freely with amazing views of the city and Pagoda. Beginners & all ages are welcome. $20 (Cash only at the door). Double Tree Parking Garage, 701 Penn St, Reading. Bldg7Yoga.com.

Thursday, September 11

Parent and Child Cooking Class: From Garden to Table – 5:30-7:30pm. Ages 5+. Celebrate the season’s final garden harvest through hands-on recipes that highlight late summer produce. $75pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-4358890. ZestChef.com.

Saturday, September 13

Workshop: Are You Experienced – 10am5pm. "Integrating Experiential Approaches into Talk Psychotherapy.” Teaching therapists, counselors and coaches how to safely add experiential skills to their 1-1 and group sessions. $150 with six CEUs, snacks and handouts. Held at The Welcoming Place, 21 S. 12th St., Akron. Registration required at RealTrueKaren.com/events.

Workshop: Regenerative Landscaping and Design – 10am-12pm. Tour the gardens and arboretum of the Founders Farm and learn about the importance of permaculture, agroforestry, pollinator gardens, ecology of landscapes and indigenous gardening techniques. Wear comfortable shoes to explore the grounds. $35pp or $60 for 2. Rodale Institute, 611 Siegfiedale Rd, Kutztown. 610-683-1400. RodaleInstitute.org.

Soap & Candle Making Class – 11am12:30pm OR 1:30-2pm. Using essential oils and herbs, learn to make soap, a soy candle and a face spritzer customized for your skin type. Wear comfortable clothing;

bottled water and aprons provided. $58. Register online. GSL Organics, 216 S Church St, Quarryville. GSLOrganics.org/events.

Cooking Class: Apples, Apples Everywhere – 6-8pm. Ages 16+. BYOB. A cozy, appleinspired culinary class that celebrates the sweet and savory side of fall’s favorite fruit. Hands on. $90pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Sunday, September 14

Hear Our Voices 5K Walk/Run – 10am (registration begins at 8:30am). Proceeds benefit Berks County Breast Cancer Support Services. To join with Kula Kamala Ashram’s group, contact Sarojini at 484-5095073 ext 2). Held at Gring’s Mill Recreation Center, 2083 Tulpeheoken Rd, Reading. BCSSBerks.org.

Second Sunday Sound – 6-7:30pm, doors open at 5:30pm. This special inaugural event in the Soundwise Theater of Sound features local legend John Protopapas on sitar. $40. Visit the website for info and tickets (required). Soundwise Health Studio, 313 Liberty St, Lancaster. Soundwise Health.com.

Tuesday, September 16

Sound & Crystal Reiki Group Healing Circle – 5:30-7:30pm. Feeling stuck, scattered, or heavy? This powerful group session blends sound healing and crystal reiki to help you release emotional blocks, restore nervous system balance, and gain the clarity your soul’s been craving. $50. Lititz Mind Body Studio, 55 N Cedar St, Lititz. 717-772-9528. TansyRodgers.com.

Women’s Memoir Writing Class – 6:308:30pm. 5 wks, Tuesdays thru 10/14. Via Zoom. “Exploring our Life Stories.” A safe haven for capturing the memories that matter to us most. Write From the Heart. Registration required. 717-393-4713. Write FromTheHeart.us.

Wednesday, September 17

Gentle Yoga & Spiritual Guided Meditation – 7-8:15pm. See 9/10 listing for details.

Save The Date

Wild & Uncommon Weekend

Discover York County’s and the Horn Farm Center’s Wild & Uncommon Weekend, a regional event featuring handmade goods, local foods and pawpaws, and fun and unique learning experiences.

September 18-21

To learn more, visit HornFarmCenter.org/pawpawfest.

Friday, September 19

Knitting for Beginners – 4-6pm. Celebrate creativity and community while learning

the timeless craft of knitting. All materials will be provided for an organic cotton wash cloth. Includes purchase of knitting needles. $50pp. Rodale Institute at the J.I. Rodale Library, 2056 Minesite Rd, Allentown. 610-683-6009. RodaleInstitute.org.

Sound Bath: Group Sound Healing –6-7:30pm. Immerse yourself in a 90-minute sound bath to quiet the mind, soothe the body, and awaken your natural healing energy through crystal and Tibetan bowls, bells, drum, and other potent, restorative vibrations. $35. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. 610-763-1755. TheNestCollaborative.com.

Sound Meditation with Abby – 6-7pm. Every third Friday, come, relax and let the week melt away with the support of healing frequencies. $25. Online registration required. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave, Willow Street. WillowYogaStudio.com.

Saturday, September 20

Kids and Teens Cooking Class: Pumpkin

Spice and Everything Nice – 10am-12pm. Ages 7-15. A fall-themed brunch class. Whip up fluffy pumpkin waffles, mix pumpkin pie spice, bake a cheesy herb frittata and build fruit kabobs. Hands on. $75pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Back-To-You Open House – 11am-3pm. A great chance to meet practitioners, try 30-minute classes, and experience mini massages. Save your spot; sign up in advance for classes and mini massages; classes: EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com/ class-schedul; mini-massages: EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com/personal-sessionsschedule. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster.

Sunday, September 21

Becoming the Creator – 10-11:30am. See 9/7 listing for details.

Hot Stone Restorative Aerial Yoga –1-2:30pm. Float just 10 inches off the ground in this restorative yoga practice

which uses the hammock as the main prop. As you move through various restorative poses, Tashia will perform hands-on assists with hot stones to encourage deeper relaxation. $30. BLDG. 7 YOGA, 220 North Park Rd, Wyomissing. 484-755-5705. Bldg7Yoga. com.

Wednesday, September 24

Cooking Class: Oktoberfest – 5-7:30pm. Ages 21+. Raise a stein and get cooking in this festive, hands-on class. Explore traditional Oktoberfest flavors through approachable techniques and comforting recipes. BYOB. $95pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-4358890. ZestChef.com.

Gentle Yoga & Spiritual Guided Meditation – 7-8:15pm. See 9/10 listing for details.

Thursday, September 25

An Introduction to Green Burial – 4-6pm. “Reimagine the Journey.” A peaceful, informative session and guided tour of the

St. Kateri Tkakwitha natural burial grounds. Presented by Kuhn Funeral Homes. Free. Held in the gazebo at Gethsemane Cemetary, 3139 Kutztown Rd, Reading. Call or email to register: Laura@KuhnFuneral Homes.com, 646-522-7119. KuhnFuneral Homes.com.

Seasonal Organic Dinner Series – 6-9pm. Join us for an evening under the stars dining on the grounds of the birthplace of the modern-day organic movement in America. Enjoy freshly made seasonal cocktails and mocktails in our Sculpture Garden, pick fresh flowers and delight in a dinner served al fresco in the heart of our 40-acre farm. $175pp. Rodale Institute, 2056 Minesite Rd, Allentown. 610-683-6009. Rodale Institute.org/seasonaldinners.

Sacred Mediumship Circle – 7-9pm. For 18+. Join mediums Christina and Tabathe for a sacred evening of spirit connection, healing, and insight—honoring loved ones, inviting messages from beyond, and offering comfort in a safe, heart-centered circle. $50. Registration required; space limited to 10. EveryBody Yoga & Wellness, 1245 Horseshoe Pike, Downingtown. 610-470-7614. EverybodyYogaAndWellness.com.

Friday, September 26

Workshop and book signing: Chronic Illness & Eating Disorders – 1–3pm. Tamie Gangloff, MFT, author of a groundbreaking new book on this topic, joins Karen Carnabucci, LCSW, TEP, in a free training offering for therapists, dieticians, social workers and other health and helping professionals. Two CEUs available. Vendela Counseling, 230 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster. Registration required at RealTrueKaren.com/ events.

Autumn Equinox Celebration – 6:308:30pm. Jen Lobo Rose of ResonateYou facilitates a singing and drumming circle followed by sound and vocal meditation. Enjoy vocal play, gentle movement, and easy mantra-style songs. All levels wel-

Home delivery magazine subscription: 6 issues: $18 / 12 issues: $30 / 24 issues: $50 Covers postage and handling.

Visit our websites to subscribe NALancaster.com | NABerks.com or call 717-399-3187 Or read our FREE DIGITAL issue online. Lancaster-Berks

come. $42. The Yoga Place in Ephrata, 9 Hahnstown Rd, Ephrata. Tickets: TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com/workshops.

Saturday, September 27

Hope Noted Summit – 10am-2pm. Embracing the theme “Finding Hope in Light and Shadow,” the Hope Noted Summit is a unique retreat combining healing practices such as a sound bath, restorative yoga, forest therapy, and creative expression. Bring a yoga mat and an open heart. $60 includes lunch. Scholarships available. Held at Pineapple Manor, 417 Manor Ave, Millersville. To purchase tickets: Hope-Noted.ticketyleap. com/summit. 717-406-0148.

Seasonal Organic Dinner Series – See 9/25 listing for details.

Sunday, September 28

Sacred Alignment: A Gallery with Heather Hanko – 12:30-2:30pm. Experience the connection between the physical and spirit worlds. Receive messages that are intended for your highest good. A gallery is when people come together to receive individual messages in a group setting. $55. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster, 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

Introduction to Awakened Heart Yoga Teacher Training – 2-3:30pm. Your invitation to explore the heart of the Awakened Heart YTT program—meet inspiring teachers, experience their approach, and discover how yoga can transform your practice, teaching, and life. Free. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. 610-7631755. TheNestCollaborative.com.

Tuesday, September 30

Meet and Greet Open House – 5-7pm. Learn about Primary Care and Integrative Medicine at MiddleWay Wellness. Brief talks about the practice and health benefits will be provided by the medical providers, followed by a tour and time to ask questions. Free. MiddleWay Wellness, 101 Good Drive, Lancaster. 717-744-0532. MiddleWayWellness.net.

Plan Ahead

Saturday, October 4

Guts & Glory Digestive & Wellness Expo 11am-3pm. All-ages, pet-friendly event featuring nutrition, fitness & healthy living professionals, healthy food & drink for sale, live active demos, kid activities, holistic experts, massage tent, farmers market, local music, free health screenings and more. Free. Jim Dietrich Park, 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd, Reading. MyGutInstinct.org.

Sunday, October 12

Aquarian Sadhana for Gura Ram Das –4-7am. A transformative early morning practice of the Kundalini yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan tradition offers a space for self-reflection, connection and deep

| NABerks.com

spiritual awakening through chanting, meditation, and movement. Free. EveryBody Yoga & Wellness, 1245 Horseshoe Pike, Downingtown. 610-470-7614. EverybodyYogaAndWellness.com.

October 14-18

Self-Heal with Barbara O’Neill – 5-8:30pm weeknights, Saturday 8am-2pm. Known worldwide for her holistic approach to health, blending science, nature and scripture to help individuals understand the body’s innate capacity to heal. Lancaster Mennonite School, 2176 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster. For details and reservations, call 484-262-9020 or visit TwinValley HealthAndWellness.com/events.

Wednesday, October 15

Self Care 101 – 11:30am-1:00pm. Wednesdays thru 11/12. a mind-body-spirit program combining sustainable lifestyle shifts with an adaptable anti-inflammatory cleanse, helping you boost energy, reduce inflammation, and build lasting habits for wholebeing vitality. $145. The Nest Collaborative, 629 Court St, West Reading. 610-763-1755. TheNestCollaborative.com/Service-page/ Self-care-101-w-Freya.

Save The Date

Inner Peace Holistic Wellness & Gem Expo

Enjoy vendors of crystals and gems, wellness products, handcrafted soaps, jewelry, holistic pet care, plus foot detox, reiki, massage, mediums, acupuncture, sound therapy and so much more! Free lectures and giveaways all weekend. $10/weekend. Veterans always free.

Saturday, November 1 · 10am – 6pm Sunday, November 2 · 10am – 5pm Hamburg Field House, Pine St, Hamburg InnerPeaceHolisticExpo.com

Sunday, November 2

Good Food Fest 2025 – 11am-4pm (10am VIP hour). An epic farmers market and celebration of local agriculture with 100+ producers, culinary demonstrations, a pouring room with local drinks, food trucks, live music, kids’ activities, live farm animals and more. $5-10. Growing Roots Partners at Kimberton Fairgrounds, 762 Pike Springs Rd, Phoenixville. 484-753-6363. GoodFarmsGoodFood.com.

Wednesday, November 5-9

Mount Shasta Retreat – “Awakened on the Mountain.” An intimate retreat filled with yoga, grounding vortex hikes, intentional meals and time to reconnect with your truest self. $1,800 includes transportation while in CA, lodging, meals, yoga and all group activities. Flights to SMA not included. Space limited to six. Register: EverybodyYogaAndWellness.com.

Ongoing Events

Sundays

Fascial Integration Flow – 8-9am. A flow yoga class focuses on releasing stuck tissue, emotions, trauma, and beliefs that have stagnated into the fascia tissue that weaves and covers the entire body. A multifaceted practice. $18 or membership option. West End Yoga, 221 West Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEnd YogaStudio.com.

Sunday Morning Flow – 9-10am. Start your Sunday with 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. 717617-2128. WillowYogaStudio.com.

Mat Pilates – 10-11am. A core-focused, low-impact workout that builds strength, stability, and flexibility using controlled movements on the mat. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Restorative Yoga – 5-6pm. A gentle, calming practice that uses props and longheld poses to relax the body, quiet the mind, and restore balance. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Mondays

Chair Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. 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. WestEndYoga Studio.com.

Chair Yoga at Willow Yoga Studio – 1111:45am. Gentle, accessible yoga using a chair for support—perfect for those with limited mobility, recovering from injury, or seeking a safer practice. $15 drop-in or 10-class card $120. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave., Willow Street. 717-617-2128. WillowYogaStudio.com.

Cosmic Breath Kundalini – 6-7pm. Online. Reconnect with your inner light through breath, movement and stillness and awaken the energy within. Beginners welcome. $25. Registration required. CosmicBreathKundalini.com.

Tuesdays

RDG Fresh Market – 11am-2pm. Fresh produce at affordable prices. Listen to a 5-minute nutrition lesson and receive $2. SNAP, cash, card and Food Bucks accepted. Offering bulk orders, CSA and farmstand requests. Farm Traveler at 145 N 6th St, Reading. ReadingCentralMarket@ gmail.com.

Community Acupuncture – 2:15pm and 3pm. Group acupuncture to treat anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic

pain, insomnia, vertigo, smoking cessation and drug addiction/recovery. Registration required, space limited. $40 per session. Register at Omella.com/67hg1. Walnut Grove Family Medicine, 3100 Willow St Pk, Willow Street, PA. Walnut GroveFamilyMed.com.

Nervous System Regulation Lab – 4:305:30pm. A gentle, powerful class weaving together polyvagal theory, somatic release techniques, vagal toning, fascia work, limbic retraining, and embodiment practices to help you shift from survival mode into safety. $18. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

Chair Yoga at Willow Yoga Studio – 5:306:15pm. See Monday listing for details. Cosmic Breath Kundalini – 6-7pm. See Monday listing for details.

Qigong – 6-7pm – Onsite and via Zoom. Slow, rhythmic movements and focused breathing promote stress reduction, improved flexibility, and balance. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-2197163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Yoga at the Wall – 6-7:15pm. The wall is fit with special hookups and harnesses that are used as props to empower students to discover greater alignment, strength, stability, and freedom in the pose. Space limited, registration required. $15. Kula

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.

For Rent

ROOM

a room

for lease for healthcare providers, massage therapists, counselors, acupuncturists, etc. For info: 610-2080404.

For Sale

HYDRO-SAN PLUS colon therapy system for sale in Berks County area. $1,000. Like new and works great. Comes ready to go with numerous supplies included. Call 610208-0404.

Opportunity

SEEKING LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST & ESTHETICIAN – Busy day spa is in need of a licensed massage therapist for individuals, couples and occasions. Also seeking a licensed esthetician. Send inquiry and resume to: GLSwans1@aol.com.

SEPTEMBER

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 column. Fit Body

Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation.org/calendar.

The Art of Meditation – 7-8pm. A creative, trauma-informed meditation class that nourishes the nervous system through music, poetry and drumming. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Ste B, Lancaster. 717-2197163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Wednesdays

Chair Yoga at Willow Yoga Studio – 1111:45am. See Monday listing for details. Chair Yoga – 3:30-4:30pm. Yoga poses in the comfort of a chair under twinkling lights and wooden beams of a cozy barn. Come and take seat with your Zen. $5. Dunn Community Center, 4565 Prestwick Dr, Exeter. 610-781-4254. OTherapYoga.com.

Hatha Yoga w/Elise – 6-7pm. A gentle, eclectic, hatha yoga practice cued for friends of all ages, all bodies and all abilities. Breathwork, asana, chanted mantra. No registration required. Bring a mat or borrow one at the studio. $10. Bumbling Circus Workshop, 40 N Third St, 2nd Fl, Columbia. BumblingCircusWorkshop.com.

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, Landisville. 717-530-5555. HeathChiropractic AndWellnessCenter.com.

Thursdays

Chair YoChi – 11-11:30am. Looking for a fun way to stay active from the comfort of your chair? Chair YoChi is the perfect blend of gentle Chair Yoga and flowing tai chi—all done seated, all done at your pace. $2 with membership. Berks Encore Mifflin Wellness and Activity Center, 30 Liberty St, Shillington. 610-781-4254. OTherap Yoga.com.

Creative Power Vinyasa – 5-6pm. Intermediate-advanced standing flows that build flexibility, balance, strength, and coordination. Each class includes deep seated stretches, core work, arm balances or inversions, pranayama or meditation, guided relaxation, and yoga philosophy. All levels welcome; previous experience helpful. $10 cash or $12 PayPal. 323 W James St, Lancaster. CampusYogaPA.com.

Aerial Yoga – 6-7:15pm. A gentle therapeutic practice using a silk hammock. Can help reduce low back pain, support greater flexibility, and enhance a sense of both adventurousness and relaxation. Space limited, registration required. $15. Kula Kamala Foundation, 17 Basket Rd, Reading. KulaKamalaFoundation.org/calendar.

Cosmic Breath Kundalini – 6-7pm. See Monday listing for details.

Fridays

Qigong – 9-10am. Onsite and via Zoom. See Tuesday listing for info. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com.

Embodied Liberation: A Somatic Integration Circle – 10:15-11:15am. A weekly, trauma-informed somatic practice circle that offers gentle movement, breathwork, and nervous system support, centered on presence, not performance. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plz, Ste B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Yoga Wall: Lengthening – 12-1pm. All levels. Find length in your spine and muscles and explore movements and poses in ways not accessible on a yoga mat. Register online. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

Cosmic Breath Kundalini – 6-7pm. Online. See Monday listing for details. 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.

Saturdays

Gentle Hatha Yoga w/Stormy – 9-10am. A gentle, eclectic, hatha yoga practice cued for friends of all ages, all bodies and all abilities. Breathwork, asana, chanted mantra. No registration required. Bring a mat or borrow one at the studio. $10. Bumbling Circus Workshop, 40 N Third St, 2nd Fl, Columbia. BumblingCircusWorkshop.com. Qigong – 9-10am – See Tuesday listing for details.

Puppy Start Right Program – 10-11am. Includes four classes, a book, videos and a training treat pouch. Taught by Nicole Weersing, Karen Pryor Certified Instructor. Rotating start, registration required. $175. Godfrey’s Welcome to Dogdom, 4267 New Holland Rd, Mohnton. 610-7775755. GodfreysDogdom.com.

Tarot – 10am-3:30pm. 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. HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com.

Hatha Yoga: Ground, Breathe, Restore –10:15-11:15am. A gentle class that invites moving with intention and reconnecting with breath. No performance, just presence. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plz, Ste B, Lancaster. 717219-7163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Astrology Readings by Leo – 11am. 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.

Strength Training – 11am-12pm. Build strength and mobility with dumbbells and resistance bands in this fun, supportive class. All levels welcome—no experience needed. Equipment provided. $15. Willow Yoga Studio, 25 Nolt Ave., Willow Street. 717-617-2128.

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.

Acupuncture

LANCASTER ACUPUNCTURE

Beverly Fornoff

Eden Natural Care Center

600F Eden Rd • Lancaster 717-381-7334

LancasterAcupuncture.com

Discover your body’s natural ability to heal with the 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 25.

Ayurveda

EVERYBODY YOGA & WELLNESS

1245 Horseshoe Pike • Downingtown 484-593-4075

EveryBodyYogaAndWellness.com

We are known for our transformative Ayurvedic bodywork and treatments using herbal-infused oils, customized to restore balance and vitality. Also offering detox, reflexology, reiki and yoga—holistic services designed to support your physical, emotional and energetic wellbeing. See ad, page 31.

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 33.

THE SPA AT WILLOW POND

1487 Old Lancaster Pike Sinking Spring 610-406-5733

TheSpaAtWillowPond.com

Escape to Berks County’s top spa and experience total renewal. From stressrelieving 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 15.

Chiropractic

A THERAPEUTIC EFFECT

Dr. Andrew Ashton 313D Primrose Ln • Mountville 717-285-9955 • ATherapeuticEffect.com

Providing an array of 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 specific adjustments to support the body for benefits that will last.

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 your health again. Also 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 Technique, Quantum Neurology, Nutritional counseling, traditional Chiropractic and other cutting-edge techniques. See ad, page 28.

LINK CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Dr. Thomas B. Wachtmann, DC 3130 Pricetown Rd • Fleetwood 610-944-5000

DrWachtmann.com

High-quality, patientfocused 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 45.

Clinical Aromatherapist INSHANTI

Debra Stoltzfus 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd • Kinzers 717-587-3990 • Inshanti.com

Trust a nationally certified aromatherapist specializing in clinical consultations. Deb can work directly with your 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 from the farmers, half- and full-day education courses with certification are offered. See ad, page 20.

Coaching (Health)

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

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

FH-Lancaster.com

Elizabeth is a certified functional medicine health coach and a certified neurolinguistic programming practitioner. She gently guides clients to curate a personal vision, lean into their strengths, find meaning and purpose, identify obstacles, cultivate new habits that create health, set short-term and long-term goals, and create lasting change. Coaching sessions are remote for convenience. See ad, page 18.

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 self-awareness, 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 Animal Assisted Therapy, Chelsea provides a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and navigate life’s challenges.

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams

—Eleanor Roosevelt

ELEMENTAL WELLNESS

60A Werner St • Wernersville 610-750-9447

•

ElementalWellnessLlc.com

Elemental Wellness offers traumainformed counseling rooted in EMDR, IFS, DBT and somatic practices. Focused on nervous system regulation and emotional healing, sessions guide clients toward balance, self-discovery, and lasting wellbeing through a compassionate, integrative approach. See ad, page 30.

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, selfworth, ADHD, autismspectrum, trauma, behavioral issues, spirituality, family issues and overall mental health and well-being. We empower families and individuals from children through adulthood to find hope, healing and wholeness through therapy sessions with trained clinicians and the intuitive partnership of horses. See ad, page 29.

Cuddle Therapy

HEALTHY HUGZ

Tara Leigh, Certified Professional Cuddler Cuddlist.com/TaraLeigh

Platonic cuddling and therapeutic touch nurtures connections, relieves stress and supports emotional wellbeing. By adhering to a code of conduct, fostering trust, honoring boundaries, and promoting relaxation, this form of touch enhances overall health, reduces loneliness and encourages a deeper sense of comfort and belonging.

Dentistry

DAVID A. SCHWARTZ, DDS, PC 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 35.

SUSQUEHANNA DENTAL ARTS

100 S 18th St • Columbia 717-684-3943 • 717-285-7033

SusquehannaDentalArts.com

We are a fullservice family dental practice providing 100% mercury-free restorations, quality non-surgical periodontal care, INVISALIGN, implant-retained dentures and partials. See ad, page 40.

DNA 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 alcohol-testing services, vitamin B12 injections and more. See ad, page 5.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

HUGHES HOME SERVICES

Green Cleaning & Laundry Service

Samantha Hughes

SamanthAnneHughes@yahoo.com 717-538-6383

We offer weekly, bi-weekly or monthly services, as well as deep cleaning, organizing and next-day laundry services 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 29.

Energy Enhancement System

TWIN VALLEY HOLISTIC HEALTH

Britt Stratton, Traditional Naturopath 2403 Main Street, Suite B • Narvon 484-262-9020

TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com

This revolutionary technology uses custominstalled units that generate a bio-active energy field of “scalar waves”, facilitating a healing environment to allow for higher cellular millivoltage and regeneration, improved immune function, pain relief, detoxification, and elevated energy, mood and consciousness. See ad, page 12.

End-Of-Life Care

KUHN FUNERAL HOMES

Laura Adamo, LFD

Specializing in Green Burial

Energy Healing

beU COMPLETE

Tansy Rodgers

Lancaster • Virtual 717-281-1102 • TansyRodgers.com

Tansy understands the impact that energy healing has on your health, happiness, and selfconfidence. Using a variety of holistic modalities, she specializes in burnout, gut health, ADHD, chakra work, energy balancing, emotion release, mobility work and self-confidence.

QHHT LANCASTER

Keysha Koy Whitsel

45 Brandt Blvd • Landisville 717-201-2350

QHHTLancaster.com

Activate deep transformation through Quantum Healing, Breathwork and the Gene Keys. Explore the hidden patterns of your DNA, release old wounds, and awaken your highest potential—through gentle guidance towards greater clarity, purpose, and emotional freedom.

Farm/Farmers Markets

HOMEFIELDS

150 Letort Rd • Millersville 717-572-2719

Homefields Care Farm, Lancaster County’s longestrunning CSA, is Pennsylvania Certified Organic, offering 300+ vegetable, fruit, and herb varieties May–Nov. Celebrating 30+ years, Homefields 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 717-327-6817

LivengoodFamilyFarm.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 alternatives at end-of-life –whether traditional, cremation or home funerals. See ad, page 4.

PRESENTED BY PRESENTED BY Laura Adamo Licensed Funeral Director and Green Burial expert in Berks County.

SIMPLE FUNERALS

40 N Charlotte St • Manheim 717-664-1500

SimpleFuneralsPA.com

At Simple Funerals, we pride ourselves on serving families with dignity, respect and compassion, offering affordable funeral services that focus on simplicity and value. Planning, pre-planning, cremation, traditional and green burial services are available. See ad, page 43.

RESTORE YOUR ENERGY

Deb Gallagher, RN, AP Lancaster 717-203-9666

RestoreEnergy12@gmail.com

RestoreYourEnergy.org

Come learn about green burial Come learn about green burial options for natural interment. options for natural interment.

Discover how you or your loved ones can be laid to rest with nature. can be laid to rest with nature. See which cemeteries offer this See which cemeteries offer this option locally. option locally.

Discover how you or your loved ones

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

It’s a good idea to always do something relaxing prior to making an important decision in your life.

—Paulo Coelho

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 transparent 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 31.

Our regenerative farm offers organically grown produce and pasturedraised meat & eggs and feature intensively rotated grazing. Our ruminants 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.

RODALE INSTITUTE

611 Siegfriedale Rd • Kutztown 610-683-1400

RodaleInstitute.org

Rodale Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through rigorous research, farmer training, and education. Over our 75-year history, we have proven that organic farming is not only viable, but essential to humanity’s survival. Our visitors’ center includes a wide selection of gifts and goods for the farm and plant enthusiast. See ad, page 19.

Fertility

FUNCTIONAL THERAPY & WELLNESS

3413 Harvest Dr., Ste 1 • Gordonville 717-929-0950

FunctionalTherapyAndWellness.com

We specialize in holistic fertility support through Mercier Therapy, as well as pelvic floor therapy and myofascial release therapy. Our multidisciplinary approach empowers our patients to experience fertility, enhance wellbeing, and achieve optimal quality of life with consistent, compassionate care. See ad, page 7.

Fibromyalgia

RESTORED BALANCE CENTER

Tracey Ramirez, DC 2227 Dutch Gold Dr • Lancaster 717-363-0045

RestoredBalanceCenter.com

We provide exceptional, personalized care for fibromyalgia, chronic pain, ehlersdanlos syndrome, and chronic fatigue in a warm and welcoming environment. Dr. Tracey focuses on helping you achieve optimal health and overall wellness through customized treatment plans designed to meet your individual needs. Begin your journey to better health today. See ad, page 29.

Functional Medicine

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Dr. Mary Regan, DNP, CRNP, IFMCP 2207 Oregon Pk, Ste 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text)

FH-Lancaster.com

Are you seeking a deeper, more meaningful evaluation of your overall health? Dr. Regan is a certified functional medicine and adult primary care practitioner providing in-person and remote care to Pennsylvania and Maryland residents. Our services involve comprehensive assessment and treatment of various health issues through mind-body therapy, nutritional medicine, IV supplement therapy, health coaching, thermography and personalized medicine. See ad, page 18.

KULP NUTRITION & WELLNESS

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 biochemistry, health history, genetics, lifestyle, exercise, and stress to create customized wellness programs for all body systems, including the immune, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems. See ad, page 27.

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 29 and 41.

Herbalism/ Herbal Medicine

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 small-batch herbal 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 34.

Holistic Wellness

BE WELL LIVING

Molly Kauffman AYS, C-IAYT, CPT

610-462-9994

BeWellLiving.net

An experienced ayurvedic practitioner, certified yoga therapist, herbalist, certified personal trainer and 3Wisdom Traditions wellness coach, Molly will support you in developing your personalized healthy routine, yoga practice or meditation journey, building an herbal connection and integrating natural remedies through seasonal living.

CIRCLE OF LIFE MASSAGE & WELLNESS

918 N Reading Rd • Ephrata 717-335-2338

CircleOfLifeWellness.com

Experience holistic 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 33.

ELEMENTAL WELLNESS

60A Werner St • Wernersville 610-750-9447

ElementalWellnessLlc.com

Blending ancient wisdom with modern practices, the practitioners at Elemental Wellness offer reiki, Ayurveda, sound bowl healing, trauma-informed yoga and Akashic Records readings. Individual and group sessions support energetic alignment, inner peace, and deep mind-body-spirit healing for sustainable wellness and personal transformation. See ad, page 30.

Homeopathy

RUTA HOMEOPATHIC & COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE

Toll House Shoppes • 4453 Penn Ave, Suite 8 • Sinking Spring 646-204-9199 • RutaComprehensive.org ChildrensDestinies.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. Tele-health appointments available.

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

AQUA BLUE WELLNESS

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

AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

Dr. Hurtubise offers integrative family medicine in Lancaster County, blending over 23 years of medical expertise with holistic care. He provides tailored IV therapy plans, acupuncture and lifestyle management, emphasizing personalized, non-pharmacological, and modern medical approaches to wellness. See ads, pages 9 and 21.

MIDDLEWAY WELLNESS

Comprehensive Holistic Primary Care

Mary Ellen Francescani, CRNP, IFMT

Jane Snyder, CRNP, IFMT 101 Good Dr • Lancaster 717-744-0532

MiddleWayWellness.net

At MiddleWay Wellness, we combine conventional, integrative, and functional medicine to deliver a holistic, patient-centered 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 6.

STRASBURG HEALTH ASSOCIATES

Brenna Osmolinski, F-NP 181 Hartman Bridget Rd • Ronks 717-687-7541

BrennaOsmolinski@gmail.com

A dedicated family nurse practitioner, Brenna blends traditional medicine with integrative therapies to support the overall wellbeing of her patients. Her services include family medicine, nutritional counseling, emotional wellness strategies and personalized care plans for all ages. Her hands-on, wholeperson approach ensures patients feel supported and empowered in their journey to optimal health.

STRASBURG HEALTH ASSOCIATES

Nick D’Orazio, MD

181 Hartman Bridge Rd • Ronks 717-687-7541

DrNickDorazio@gmail.com

Physician board certified in integrative and holistic medicine employs a wide variety of treatment modalities including Ayurveda, IV 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.

WALNUT GROVE FAMILY MEDICINE & WELLNESS CLINIC

Mary Tierney, MD

3100 Willow Street Pk • Willow Street 717-723-9104

WalnutGroveFamilyMed.com

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 wellbeing. Providing family and sports medicine, acupuncture, infrared therapy, hyrdomassage, discounted labs, medications and supplements and more. See ad, page 30.

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 support hydration, weight loss, increased energy, improved immunity, address nutrient deficiencies and more. See ads, pages 9 and 21.

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. Membership plans available. See ad, page 18.

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 alcohol-testing services, vitamin B12 injections and more. See ad, page 5.

Markets

KIMBERTON WHOLE FOODS

Wyomissing, Douglasville, Kimberton, Downingtown, Ottsville, Collegeville, Malvern

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 from our over 150 local producers, as well as healthy take out, eat-in and to-go items. See ad, back cover.

LEMON STREET MARKET

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 14.

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.

Med Spa

BLOSSOM MED SPA

101 N Queen St, Ste 93 Lancaster 717-299-9000

Blossom-MedSpa.com

Blossom Med Spa offers luxury beauty and body care from the inside out, with wellness services such as acupuncture (new!), infrared sauna and halotherapy, reiki and more, and expert aesthetic services including medi facials, laser treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and cosmetic enhancements. See ad, page 18.

Mind-Body-Spirit

SACRED ALIGNMENT

Heather Hanko

Online and in-person 717-693-0224

HeatherAlignment@gmail.com HHSacredAlignment.com

Connect with loved ones in spirit, find balance and receive gentle guidance through life’s challenges. Heather creates a sacred alignment, helping you access the guidance you need to live a more peaceful life. Invite healing through readings, reiki and supportive coaching.

Mind-Body Therapy

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Angelique Canonico, CMC, PVT, C-IAYT 2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster

Info@FH-Lancaster.com

717-490-6227 (call or text)

FH-Lancaster.com

Angelique is a certified yoga therapist, polyvagal therapy practitioner, reiki practitioner and menopause coach. Her unique modalities focus on regulating the nervous system, repairing painful pathways and reestablishing a healthy balance between the body and mind. See ad, page 18.

Native/Ecological Gardening

COLORGARDEN LLC

Marcella Hostetler

717-413-7054

ColorgardenLlc@gmail.com

ColorgardenLancaster.com

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 restore balance in our 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, low-maintenance haven for you and the wildlife you love. Mayapple provides design and installation of pollinator-loving gardens, rain gardens, native meadows, natural stonework and more. Visit the website to book a consultation.

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-being and support dwindling wildlife populations. We work 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 design, install and steward 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 14.

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).

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 significant, but not separate from the others. See ad, page 12.

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 18.

NUTRITION FOR LIFE

Lori Borja, RN, MS, CNS 3933 Perkiomen Ave • Reading 610-779-4588 • SpineAndWellness.org

Clinical nutrition service based on a comprehensive assessment, each client receives a personalized treatment plan to help them re-balance and restore the body. Lori will provide specific recommendations for the client’s individual needs. One-on-one support is given to help clients reach their goals and live healthier lives. See ad, page 13.

Pelvic Health Therapy

PELVIC FOUNDATIONS

Home-Based care in Berks and Lancaster Counties 717-723-9270

PelvicFoundations.com

We provide expert pelvic floor therapy, restoring wholebody 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.

Personal Development

THE HAPPY HUMAN BEING

Danielle Stewart

Hello@TheHappyHumanBeing.com

The Nest Collaborative • 629 Court St West Reading TheHappyHumanBeing.com

Your Life Awaits—Claim Your Experience. Through carefully crafted transformational workshops, classes and oneon-one coaching sessions, learn to align with your purpose, manifest with intention, and step fully into the life you’ve imagined.

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 17.

Pilates

CMB PILATES

484-214-2987 (Text) Info@cmbpilates.com CMBPilates.com

Experience inclusive, lowimpact virtual Pilates designed for every body and mind. Whether you're new or experienced, neurodivergent or not, these supportive online classes help you feel calm, confident and connected—right from the comfort of home.

Skincare

GSL ORGANICS

216 S Church St • Quarryville 717-844-1444

GSLOrganics.org

With over 25 years of experience, owner Candy St. MartinePack, a certified aromatherapist, 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 22.

Sound Healing/Music

RESONATE YOU

Jen Lobo Rose Lititz/Lancaster ResonateYou@gmail.com ResonateYou.com

—Priyanka Chopra

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 well-being 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 massage, ReikiSound, ReikiVoice, and hospice CareSound. Also offering sixmonth 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.

Specialty Foods

KWEE-JACK FISH CO

Wild Alaskan Salmon, Halibut & Cod 717-842-0180

EatWildSalmon.com

Sustainably harvested wild Alaskan seafood available, fisherman-direct. Preorder online seasonally for local pick-up of sushigrade delicious nutrition, deep-frozen at the peak of freshness to enjoy throughout the year. See ad, page 42.

LINDEN DALE FARM

LindenDaleFarm@gmail.com

LindenDaleFarm.com

Linden Dale Farm produces various fresh and aged cheeses, goat milk yogurt, bottled milk, as well as pasture-raised goat meat. Find their excellent products at Lancaster Central Market, Lemon Street Market and Swarthmore, Riverwards and Headhouse farmers markets and distinguished farm-to-table restaurants in Lancaster County, Harrisburg and Greater Philadelphia.

MISTY CREEK GOAT DAIRY 43 W Eby Rd • Leola 717-656-4628

The Miller Family Farm offers milk, caramel, 15 varieties of quality cheeses and liquid, and bar soaps made from nourishing goat’s milk, known to be easier to digest and gentle on the skin. See ad, page 43.

Therapeutic Writing

WRITE FROM THE HEART

Creative Writing Workshops

Melissa Greene • Lancaster 717-393-4713 • WriteFromTheHeart.us

Our uplifting, be-who-youare workshops awaken the creative spirit, gently, without intimidation. Taught in an atmosphere of warmth, 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 7.

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 infrared sauna, nutritional education and more. Thermal imaging is a safe, non-invasive procedure for early detection of sources of pain, injury and disease. See ads, pages 9 and 21.

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 28.

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.

BUMBLING CIRCUS WORKSHOP

at Switchboard Studios & Gallery

40 North Third St • Columbia BumblingCircusWorkshop.com

The Bumbling Circus Workshop offers a weekly one-hour hatha yoga class on Saturday mornings at 9am. Taught by Albert Storm, a fitness trainer, volunteer firefighter and retired soldier, accommodations make this class accessible to anyone looking to add yoga to their wellness routine. Private instruction also available.

COSMIC BREATH KUNDALINI

Elizabeth Pierce

Info@CosmicBreathKundalini.com 334-788-7519

CosmicBreathKundalini.com

Awaken your energy and elevate your spirit with the transformative practice of kundalini yoga. Offered online, kundalini harmonizes mind, body and spirit–guiding you toward greater awareness, balance and vitality from the inside out. Visit the website to register. See ad, page 31.

EMBODIED WISDOM INSTITUTE

845 Silver Spring Pl, Ste B • Lancaster 717-219-7163

EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com

Our personal holistic wellness sessions and small group classes will help you foster balance, relaxation, and a renewed sense of wellbeing. Whether you seek the flow of yoga, the energy of qigong, or the healing touch of massage therapy, our dedicated practitioners will guide you every step of the way. See ad, page 35.

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, nonviolence, unity, and healing. Our public and professional programs serve people from all walks of life. No matter who you are, we have something special for you. OM. Peace. See ad, page 4.

OTHERAPYOGA, LLC

Elizabeth Bentz, OTD, OTR/L, SIPT, RYT-200

610-781-4254

OTherapYoga.com

OTherapYoga offers personalized care through occupational therapy, therapeutic yoga, and Tai Chi for Rehabilitation. Beginning with a professional evaluation, services aim to restore balance and well-being by integrating physical rehabilitation with holistic, spiritually grounded practices.

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 30.

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 virtual. 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 9.

WILLOW YOGA STUDIO

25 Nolt Ave • Willow Street 717-617-2128

WillowYogaStudio.com

Offering 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. See ad, page 34.

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