Picture Natural Approaches to Protect Your Vision Simple Tips for Pelvic Vitality The Joys of Birdwatching
General and Specialty Dentist
BioCompatible Materials
Integrative Holistic Care
Modified SMART Mercury Removal
SDS/Swiss BioHealth Practitioners
Patient-Centered, Relationship-Based
Containment
Disinfection Between Patients
Dr. Howard Robins has been helping people using Ozone Therapy for over 34 years. He is considered to be the foremost clinical expert in North America on bio-oxidative therapies for the safe and effective treatment of diseases and conditions and is published in peer-reviewed medical journals. His clinic has performed over 420,000 treatments, more than any other clinic in the world.
Intravenous Ozone Therapy has successfully treated Herpes (HSV) I and II, Lyme Disease, HIV, Diabetes including diabetic ulcers and neuropathy, Arthritis, Shingles, skin infections and skin conditions, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, All auto-immune diseases and CRPS - just to name a few.
Call to find out if your medical problem can be helped.
Listen to Dr. Robins podcasts on www.voiceamerica.com and on his www.YouTube.com channel “Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins”.
e Toxin Destroyer
INTRAVENOUS OZONE THERAPY
What’s Wrong with Me?
Lyme Disease and How to Overcome It
From the desk of Dr. Howard Robins at The Healing Center in New York City
The Answer
Michael came into the office taking short baby steps. His 19-year-old arms and hands were bent and twisted into a weird, spasmodic position. His head tilted to the side, eyes nearly closed, with his face in a strange grimace. He spoke in short three-or four-word sentences. He had been suffering since he was 13 years old, and his father was ready to institutionalize him for the rest of his life. Until he became ill, he was a normal boy and a computer whiz. One day, he developed what appeared to be the flu, except it was in the summer and not the flu season.
Numerous courses of oral and intravenous antibiotics failed to work. His symptoms worsened over the years, and several Lyme disease experts later left him in the state in which he arrived at our office. He had late-stage Lyme disease.
The Cause
The disease, a worldwide pandemic, is named after the towns of Lyme and Old Lyme in Connecticut, where a large number of cases of Lyme disease were identified in 1975. The infection is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected ticks. The ticks are extremely small and often fall off the body after feeding, thus masking the fact that you’ve been bitten.
The Symptoms and the Difficulty in Diagnosis
Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, depression and a characteristic circular skin rash, which has a “bullseye” (target-like) appearance. The “bulls-eye rash” is thought to occur in only about 80 percent of infected patients, adding to misdiagnosis. Patients often experience flu-like symptoms, such as headache, muscle soreness, fever and malaise, which can also confuse early diagnosis.
Lyme arthritis usually affects the knees and feet, and, in some patients, can occur in other joints, including the ankles, elbows, wrists, hips and shoulders. Pain is often mild or moderate, usually with swelling at the involved joint. In some cases, Lyme disease kills.
In many, but not all cases, antibiotics may eliminate the infection and its symptoms, especially if the illness is treated early. Unfortunately, even when caught early, antibiotics don’t always work. Many people are allergic to the drugs needed or develop sensitivity reactions and have to stop them. Delayed or inadequate treatment (often treating for too short a period of time) can lead to more serious symptoms, which can be disabling and even harder to treat—that is, unless medical ozone is used.
Over the past 22 years, intravenous medical ozone has been safely and effectively used to destroy and eliminate Lyme disease, even in late-stage infections. Often, when all hope is gone, even after years of suffering, medical ozone has proven successful. Usually in just a few weeks, symptoms begin to diminish, offering hope and finally giving relief. Intravenous medical ozone when it enters the body attacks and kills all Lyme disease-causing bacteria. It does it safely, with virtually no adverse reactions. In addition, it destroys all unwanted viruses, fungus, yeast, mold, harmful free radicles, and toxins, thus cleansing your body and boosting your own natural immune system. And did I say it does it safely and with virtually no adverse reactions?
More information about this amazing, safe and effective treatment is available at OzoneWithoutBorders.ngo and OzoneDoctor. net. Listen to Dr. Robins’ live and archived radio show on VoiceAmerica.com and the YouTube channel “Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins.” For more information, call 212581-0101 or email ozonedoctor@yahoo.com. Ask about online consultations. Treatments also available in Nassau County. See ad, page 3.
Partnered Editorial. Copyright 2026. All rights reserved.
Dr. Howard Robins
YOUR VISION IS PRECIOUS
Protect and Preserve
The Eye Health Summit™ 2026 Agenda
NEW in 2026: Public & Practitioner Tracks!
• Dry Eye Relief - Latest Treatments
• Fighting Ocular & Eyelid Inflammation
• Digital Eye Strain Management
• UV and Blue Light Protection
• Cataract Prevention
• Modern Cataract Surgery
• Premium Intraocular Lens Implants
• Dry & Wet Macular Degeneration
• The Gut-Eye Connection
• Diabetic Eye Disease
• Photobiomodulation - Red & Infrared Light
• Glaucoma Management
• Glaucoma Support - Nutrition & Lifestyle
• Migraine and Visual Aura
• Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
• Light Sensitivity
• Visual Snow Syndrome
• Concussion and Visual Symptoms
• Autoimmune Diseases & The Eye
• Ocular Nutrition
• Vision Supplements
• Functional Medicine and Eye Health
• TCM and Acupuncture for Vision
• Mind-Eye Connection
• The 5Bs of Eye Self-Care
• And many more...
Uday Devgan, MD Johanna M. Seddon, MD Ragha Madumbal, MD Deborah Friedman, MD Terry Wahls, MD
Alison D. Early, MD Richard Rosen, MD Rani Banik, MD Sui H. Wong, MD Neda Gioia, OD
Janelle Davison, OD Dimitra Skondra, MD, PhD Meenal Agarwal, OD Randy Schulman, OD Marc Grossman, OD, LAc
Anat Galor, MD Shalesh Kaushal, MD, PhD Michael Carter, MD Elena Gross, PhD Mickie Brown, RN
Michael and I have found ourselves increasingly drawn to the quiet rhythms of nature—especially the birds that return to our deck each spring. Without fail, a mother bird chooses our window box as the place to begin again. We watch as she carries tiny bits of grass and twigs, building her nest piece by piece with remarkable care and intention.
Each year, it feels like a small miracle when we spot the eggs—the fruits of her labor. If we’re lucky, we witness the arrival of baby chicks. Not all survive, as our area is home to predators like owls and hawks. Still, there is something deeply moving about the process itself. I check the window box daily, careful not to interfere, and am always struck by the mother’s patience and devotion. Her nest is more than a structure—it is safety, preparation and love in physical form. It takes me back to my own “nesting” days as we prepared for the birth of our boys.
One of the articles in this issue, “Wings of Wonder,” touches on the healing presence of birds and the calm that comes from simply observing them. In many ways, birds mirror the universal role of mothers—to protect, nurture, guide and, eventually, let go.
May is a fitting time to honor that spirit. As blossoms follow April showers and the world reawakens in color, we’re reminded that renewal and hope are always within reach. “Hope springs eternal” feels especially true as we watch birds take flight—free, resilient and full of life.
Our feature, “Strong, Centered and Whole,” celebrates the women who shape our lives and communities. They are not only raising families—they are leading businesses, teaching, healing, creating and opening paths for future generations.
Whatever their form—human or animal—a mother’s instincts and hopes carry forward through generations.
Empowerment takes many forms. Take a moment to acknowledge the person who brings that out in you—and don’t forget to look up. You may just find wings above that lift you higher.
Cyrece & Michael
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Bill Robert, formerly practicing in Atlanta, is now available for remote Spiritual Light treatments anywhere, for any reason. In NY, Bill is hoping to specialize with students of dance, acting, music and other artists. helping remove creative and emotional blockages. For repeat students/clients, Bill is available for in person treatments by coming to you within 30 minutes of the West Village.
Bill has been working by donation only for over 12 years and is here to help you start the journey of healing.
Questions? Call Bill at 770-990-9191 or visit www.bill-robert.com
Free Guide for Stubborn Weight
Dr. Jillian Finker
Weight loss often isn’t about willpower or discipline—it’s about biochemistry. When hormonal and metabolic imbalances quietly interfere with the body’s ability to burn fat, even the most consistent diet and exercise routines can fall short.
A common contributor to weight-loss resistance is a cycle of glucose and insulin imbalance. When blood sugar drops too low, it triggers anxiety and sugar cravings, leading to overeating. Also, a high-carbohydrate diet can overstimulate insulin production, which prevents efficient fat burning.
Many people experience initial success, only to plateau. This can be indicative of a myriad of issues such as impaired thyroid hormone conversion, estrogen-progesterone imbalance or a disrupted gut microbiome. These factors can influence metabolism, inflammation, mood and appetite.
“Weight loss resistance is rarely about a lack of effort, it’s often a sign that the body is out of balance,” says Dr. Jillian Finker. “Once identified, imbalances can be addressed through nutrient-dense nutrition, targeted supplementation and supportive lifestyle strategies. When the body regains balance, weight loss tends to follow more naturally.”
For those who are struggling despite their efforts, Finker is offering a
Virtual Event on Prevention of Vision Loss
The Eye Summit 2026, a fiveday virtual event focused on prevention and management of eye disease, is May 11 through 15. The event is free.
Hosted by Rudrani “Rani” Banik, MD, a board-certified neuro-ophthalmologist and associate professor of ophthalmology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the summit will feature interviews with ophthalmologists, optometrists, neurologists and neuroscientists discussing age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eye disease, migraine-related visual symptoms, concussion-related vision changes and lifestyle factors affecting eye health. There will be daily pre-recorded expert interviews. Optional VIP access includes live question-and-answer sessions, lifetime recordings and additional educational resources.
“The majority of vision loss worldwide is preventable or treatable with early detection and appropriate intervention,” Banik says. “The goal of The Eye Summit is to provide science-based information that helps individuals make informed decisions about protecting their eyesight.”
The 2025 Eye Summit drew more than 26,000 registrants from 84 countries, including approximately 10,000 health care professionals.
Register at TheEyeSummit.com. For more information, email Info. See ad, page 5, and cal-
Sagrada BioSkincare
Small Batch, Organic and Sustainable
Sagrada BioSkincare is a natural-luxe skincare line rooted in the belief that true skin health begins with integrity of ingredients, process and intention. Blending time-honored plant medicine traditions with modern skincare innovation, Sagrada creates formulas that are both effective and aligned with the body.
“Sagrada bridges the gap between inner wellbeing and outer care. Our formulations are rooted in the understanding that what we place on the skin is absorbed into the body, which is why we use only bioavailable, organic botanicals,” says co-founder Adriana Pickering, a lifelong student of herbalism and Ayurveda. It was her personal journey through herbalism, energy work and global healing traditions that resulted in Sagrada BioSkincare.
Each product is crafted in small batches using bioavailable, organic botanicals that the skin can recognize and utilize. Free from hormone disruptors, synthetic fillers and greenwashed ingredients, Sagrada prioritizes purity and performance. Advanced actives such as peptides are integrated to support visible results, while maintaining a clean, non-toxic foundation.
Mindful Mondays with Michael
FREE ONLINE Meditation Group
Hosted by Michael Lehrman, Co-Publisher, Natural Awakenings NYC & Long Island
Monday, May 18 • 6–7pm Google Meets
To register, email publisher@natural awakeningsny.com
Sustainability is central to the brand’s ethos. Ingredients are ethically sourced, and all formulations are housed in Miron glass to protect potency and reduce environmental impact.
The line is mindfully designed to deliver luxurious rituals for skin and spirit with a simplified ritual that delivers results in just minutes a day, supporting skin health without overwhelming it.
At its core, Sagrada is more than skincare; it is clean, effective and environmentally responsible. Each formula is developed with intention and infused with crystals and frequencies. Each product is designed not just to nourish the skin—but to support the nervous system, harmonize energy and create a sensorial experience that invites presence and connection.
“For those who value sustainability, transparency and holistic health, Sagrada offers not just skincare, but a refined, responsible way to care for the body and the planet,” says Pickering.
For more information, see SagradaBioskincare.com, call 805-423-8959 or email Info@SagradaBioskincare.com.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Natural Approaches to Protect Vision
by Rani Banik, MD
Vision is needed to carry out most aspects of daily life. Even so, most people take eyesight for granted—until something begins to change. May is Healthy Vision Month, a perfect time to focus on protecting eyesight for life.
Reading becomes a little harder. Night driving feels more stressful. Colors seem less vibrant. These subtle changes are easy to dismiss. But, over time, they can signal something serious.
For millions of people, vision loss is gradual and silent, developing over years and decades, eventually impacting independence and quality of life.
According to the World Health Organization, at least 2.2 billion people worldwide live with vision impairment, including conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Alarmingly, in almost half of these cases, vision loss could have been prevented with early awareness and intervention. Yet most people don’t know how to actively protect their vision.
As an integrative neuro-ophthalmologist, I see this gap every day. Patients often seek care only after symptoms appear, unaware that their daily habits have been shaping their future eye health.
Small consistent changes can make a profound difference to preserve vision and to support overall brain and metabolic health. The eyes are not isolated organs; they are deeply connected to the rest of the body.
Take Control of Eye Health
Nourish eyes through nutrition: Eyes have one of the highest metabolic demands in the body, requiring a steady supply of nutrients to function optimally. However, the modern diet often falls short, contributing to oxidative stress, inflammation and cellular dysfunction—key drivers of eye disease.
Prioritize foods rich in:
• Lutein and zeaxanthin, essential macular carotenoids (leafy greens, egg yolks, orange and yellow vegetables)
• Antioxidants and bioflavonoids, which combat free radical damage (berries, citrus, deeply pigmented produce)
• Omege-3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA and ALA), which support retinal structure and tear film health
A Mediterranean-style, plant-forward diet has been shown to reduce the risk of dry eye, macular degeneration and glaucoma, while supporting long-term visual and cognitive health.
Strategic supplementation: Even with a healthy diet, many individuals do not reach optimal levels of key nutrients. A targeted and personalized supplementation regimen can help bridge this gap.
Look for formulations that include:
• Macular carotenoids for retinal protection
• Omega-3 fatty acids for ocular surface and retinal support
• Antioxidants for protection against agerelated damage
• B vitamins for optic nerve support and energy metabolism
• Bioflavonoids to reduce inflammation
Lifestyle matters to long-term vision health. Smoking increases the risk of blindness; poor metabolic health contributes to diabetic eye disease; sedentary lifestyle reduces circulation to the eyes and brain; and excess screen time strains the eye-brain connection.
Conversely, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and practicing mindful screen habits can significantly reduce risks.
A New Vision for Eye Health
Vision loss is often preventable. Choices made today directly influence how well the eyes will function tomorrow. Your vision is not something to take for granted—it’s something to protect, nurture and preserve for a lifetime.
Rani Banik, MD, is a double board-certified neuro-ophthalmologist and integrative medicine physician, Associate Professor at Mount Sinai, author of Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health A to Z and host of The Eye-Q Podcast and The Eye Summit (May 1115), a free online event on prevention, early detection and integrative eye care. See ad, page 5, and calendar listing, page 27.
Handy Heart-Risk Calculator
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and nearly everyone that experiences a heart attack, stroke or heart failure has at least one risk factor. The American Heart Association offers a free tool called PREVENT to estimate 10-year and 30-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk for people aged 30 to 79 without known CVD. Validated in a 2025 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the tool’s algorithms are based on 10 years of data from more than 6.5 million Americans without known CVD. It is the first tool to combine cardiovascular, kidney and metabolic health measures. To access the calculator, visit professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements/prevent-calculator.
The calculator aims to promote earlier consultation between doctors and patients when higher risk is detected. These conversations can lead to lifestyle changes in diet, sleep quality and stress, alongside treatment, to reduce CVD risk.
Hope, Healing & Wellness
Improving Self-Esteem
Self-esteem plays an important role in how people navigate daily life and has an impact on shaping confidence, choices and relationships. For women in particular, self-esteem is influenced not only by personal experiences but also by outside pressures such as beauty standards, social media and expectations about success and relationships.
Research in psychology shows that women often experience changes in self-esteem based on social feedback and how they believe others see them. In addition, interacting on social media platforms can increase comparison to others and lower self-confidence, especially among younger people. While it is widely recognized that society plays a significant role in these issues, and that promoting more diverse, realistic representations of women is essential to reducing pressure and supporting healthier selfesteem over time, it’s important to protect oneself.
To improve self-esteem, start with small, practical steps. These include setting realistic goals, practicing positive self-talk and limiting time spent online in order to reduce the urge to compare oneself to others. Building supportive friendships and, when needed, seeking professional help can also make a difference.
Griselle Phillips, LCSW, supports clients in overcoming feeling stuck and overwhelmed using holistic methods. For more information, see GoodMoodNow.com or call 917-245-5105. See listing, page 30.
Deeper Awareness Through Dance
5Rhythms is a movement meditation practice developed by Gabrielle Roth in the late 1970s. It combines elements of shamanic, ecstatic, mystical and Eastern philosophy, along with influences from Gestalt therapy, a humanistic form of psychotherapy. The practice is founded on the belief that everything is energy, moving in waves, patterns and rhythms. Roth described 5Rhythms as the connection of body, heart, mind and spirit. By moving the body, practitioners aim to quiet the mind and access deeper states of awareness and creativity.
The five rhythms of the practice correspond to different movements and emotional states, danced in a specific sequence: flowing represents grounding and being; staccato signifies clarity and direction; chaos encourages release and transformation; lyrical conveys lightness and joy; stillness brings integration and peace.
5Rhythms participants move through the five rhythms in 60 or 90 minutes. There is no set choreography; individuals are encouraged to move intuitively while barefoot in response to music that reflects the energy of each rhythm.
Cognitive Benefits of Caffeine
A study published in JAMA reports that caffeine protects against dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. The research followed nearly 132,000 American adults for up to 43 years, analyzing the effect of coffee and tea consumption on dementia risk and cognitive performance. Participants were free of cancer, Parkinson’s disease and dementia at the start of the study. After adjusting for demographic, lifestyle and healthrelated factors, a higher intake of caffeinated coffee significantly reduced dementia risk.
Those consuming the most caffeinated coffee had an 18 percent lower dementia risk than those consuming the least. Higher
caffeinated coffee intake also correlated with a lower likelihood of self-reported cognitive decline and modestly better performance on objective cognitive tests. Tea consumption showed similar patterns, while decaffeinated coffee did not reduce dementia risk or improve cognitive outcomes. The strongest effects were seen with moderate intake, about two to three cups of caffeinated coffee or one to two cups of tea daily.
Participants were drawn from the Nurses’ Health Study (started in 1976) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (started in 1986), two of the largest, long-running U.S. studies investigating risk factors for chronic disease.
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Strong, Centered and Whole
Women That Inspire Us To Thrive
by Marlaina Donato
Something in the air seems to change when a woman with strong vitality enters a room. Her undefinable life force draws us in, whether it is evident in her step or her smile. Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, poet Maya Angelou and anthropologist Jane Goodall are all iconic examples, but the capacity to thrive is
inherent in each of us through small, consistent investments.
Globally, women are leading the way in consumer choices, eco-forward initiatives and sociopolitical awareness for a more sustainable and compassionate world. Whether on the frontlines fighting for worthy causes,
supporting local farmers markets or putting healthy meals on the table, prioritizing selfcare and learning from each other is vital. Here, four inspiring women from different walks of life divulge how they thrive in chaotic times.
Finding Her Authentic Self
Behati Hart served her country for a decade, switching between logistics, computer analysis and paralegal positions in the United States Air Force. As a woman of color in a male-dominated environment, she says she survived by crafting a persona to hide her then-undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and anxiety.
Today, Hart embodies what feels like a more authentic role as a multidisciplinary creator and coach. The author of Just BE: A Memoir About Unmasking and Becoming Human Again designed The BETi Method (Becoming Empowered Through Intelligence) to guide people out of trauma and identity-focused ways of living that compromise the soul’s true calling.
“We allow the world to judge us, accept those judgments as fact and begin wearing masks, titles and labels that reflect others’ expectations of how they want to experience us,” she explains. “We become afraid to experience ourselves—the good, the bad and the ugly. Unmasking is embodying ourselves so that we feel safe with who we really are.”
Courtesy Behati Hart
Noting that trauma and passion are the same energy moving in opposite directions, she says, “Trauma turns fierce aliveness inward into hypervigilance, protection or freeze responses. Passion turns that same energy outward into creation, connection and joy.”
Numerous activities feed Hart’s soul. “My forever medicines—laughter and dancing—require no prescription and provide cathartic emotional release through physical expression,” she points out. “As an earth-oriented person, being outdoors nourishes my spirit the most. My sacred garden and porch are my grounding spaces where I practice earthing—direct skin contact with the Earth’s surface—because I believe that electrons from the earth may help reduce inflammation.”
Hart believes that we can learn from each other by sharing our experiences. “We don’t always celebrate our stories, especially the stories of other women—ancient and contemporary—who survived and taught us how to become who we are,” she says. “We need survivor stories, revolutionary stories and creator stories. To thrive, we must center the well-being of women and children, while embracing heart-led living—not feminine or masculine, but feminine and masculine, in sacred balance. That’s the future I work toward.”
Dr.
Enjoying a Wild and Interesting Life
Maria Rodale seamlessly moves from the boardroom to the garden and from science to spirituality, carving out a distinctly unique life while preserving an impactful family legacy. She served as chief executive officer of Rodale, Inc., the publishing company behind Prevention magazine and bestselling book titles, including An Inconvenient Truth, by Al Gore. As a passionate, third-generation advocate for health and Earth literacy, she has penned several books of her own, including Organic Manifesto: How Organic Food Can Heal Our Planet, Feed the World, and Keep Us Safe and Love, Nature, Magic: Shamanic Journeys into the Heart of My Garden.
“I have met enough rich and famous people to know that financial success or fame is no
Dr. Finker compassionately guides all of her patients back onto their path of well being.
guarantee of happiness or thriving,” she says. “I define success as a safe and warm home, a comfortable bed, good homemade food, happy and healthy kids, family and friends who love me, loving myself, the freedom to create and, of course, good health.”
Rodale prioritizes eating in-season, organic, local food, in moderation. “I also think we create the future by what we ingest—culturally and physically. Just like I avoid fast food and highly processed foods, I avoid horror movies and true crime stories,” she explains.
Her self-care habits include saying a prayer and 30 minutes of meditation in the morning, before doing anything else, lifting weights twice a week, going for walks and adding to her gratitude list before bed. “The direct relationship we each have with our true, ‘higher’ selves and with God is unique for every person and part of our life journey to figure it out,” she says. “I listen to my own inner voice, trust my gut, not getting distracted by rage bait, not dwelling too much on the horrors that I can’t fix or control, and focusing on the things I can do.”
These are mantras she lives by and offers to others: “Stop worrying about what other people think. Treasure your weirdness. Get over your fears and get out there. Do what you, and only you, were born to do.”
Courtesy Maria Rodale
Modeling a Wholesome Lifestyle
Dr. Rebecca Hunton has always wanted to make a difference, and after dedicating two decades to functional medicine, her tireless efforts shine at Radiantly Healthy, her direct-care practice in central Florida, where patients benefit from unhurried appointments, advanced diagnostics and a collaborative partnership with their healthcare team. By listening closely to her patients—mostly women—she has been able to create a responsive, personalized standard of care that conventional institutions are slow to follow.
“Our culture—especially our workplace culture—is not designed for health or wholeness,” she remarks. “We’re beating ourselves up for failing to achieve something that’s genuinely impossible. Many of my female patients are burned out and demoralized—not because they’re failing, but because the target was never reachable. Step one is that awareness. Step two is adding one small, achievable action, and then another. That’s where momentum starts.”
In her integrative practice, one concept emerges with great regularity: there is no health without good mental health. “You can't separate emotional health from physical vitality. I make it a non-negotiable priority, which is part of my ‘just-10-minutes’ philosophy. When time is tight, I commit to
planking, the indoor bike or functional fitness, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. I maintain an affirmation and gratitude practice, and get outside on most days for some form of physical activity, often cycling.”
Because she believes that food is medicine, and one of the chief contributors to well-being, Hunton practices what she preaches to her patients. “I love to cook,” she explains. “I’m plant-forward, but not vegetarian, and legumes and beans find their way into nearly every dish I make.”
The healing power of community is also top of mind. “I’m thriving when I’m living in close alignment with the personal vision for my life, and that includes physical activity with friends, playing duplicate bridge to keep my mind sharp, as well as teaching and leading others for growth and fulfillment,” she says. “I try to be that person now for the younger women in my life—reaching back rather than just reaching forward.”
Teaching and Learning
Sarita-Linda Rocco’s journey into wholeness was forged from a crucible of deep grief, motherhood and a life-altering neardeath experience during her mid-20s. These rollercoaster life events left her with debilitating panic attacks, and her search for stability led her to Ayurveda and yoga. Today, Rocco is a renowned teacher and
founder of The Nest Collaborative, a holistic haven in West Reading, Pennsylvania.
She is also an innovator and entrepreneur, continually searching for ways to help her students thrive in their body-mind fitness journey. One invention, The Original Superblock, is a specialized prop used to support students during yoga practice.
Rocco’s way of life is straightforward but powerful. She prioritizes foods that keep her blood sugar balanced, minimizing simple carbohydrates and focusing on clean proteins, healthy fats and seasonal vegetables. “I love cooking and find great joy in building meals around our weekly CSA [community supported agriculture] from a local organic farm,” she says. “Ayurveda spices and herbs are central in my kitchen, and hydration is foundational.”
According to Rocco, “Self-healing begins with setting boundaries with people and situations that deplete energy. I hope women remember their divine feminine power, shakti, from which their creative intelligence and life-generating energy flows. It does not compete. It creates. When women fragment that power through comparison and social pressure, something sacred is lost.”
Even now, hers is a journey of self-discovery and transformation. “Thriving is not perfection. It is honoring my energy moment to moment, knowing when to work with strength and when to rest without guilt,” she explains. “Conscious breathing stabilizes my nervous system more reliably than anything else. I practice regulating my nervous system and building resilience, not using yoga as a workout. I incorporate strength training with bands and weights to support bone health. I walk my dog twice daily most days. One of my most important rituals is fasting after dinner and going to bed by 9 p.m.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
Courtesy Sarita-Linda Rocco
Courtesy
Dr. Rebecca Hunton
Another Leap Forward in Dental Healing: WHY “GOOD ENOUGH” DENTISTRY COSTS MORE
Most patients assume that if dental work looks acceptable and feels fine, it was done correctly. But dentistry rarely fails in obvious ways. It fails gradually, without symptoms, until the damage is advanced. The absence of pain is not proof of health and “good enough” can be a long-term liability.
Many treatments appear successful: a filling feels smooth, a crown sits comfortably and an X-ray shows no concern. But failure in dentistry is typically incremental. Microscopic gaps allow bacteria to reenter. Subtle bonding deficiencies lead to leakage. Bite imbalances create stress. Minor compromises in disinfection allow bacteria to persist. Over time, these small deviations compound and simple restoration evolves into a cycle of intervention. A filling becomes a larger restoration. That restoration becomes a crown. Eventually, more invasive procedures become necessary. Many patients believe this is inevitable, but it reflects dentistry that was not designed with long-term biologic success in mind.
At Integrative Dental Specialists this cycle is prevented. Under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Etess, every decision is guided by long-term stability, preservation of natural structure and respect for the connection between oral health and overall wellness.
Time is one of the most critical and most overlooked elements in clinical dentistry. Precision requires time. Diagnosis requires thought. Execution requires focus. When care is rushed, steps are compressed or omitted. Isolation may be compromised. Materials may not be handled with the level of control required for optimal performance. The result may appear acceptable, but the biological foundation is weakened. At Integrative Dental Specialists, dentistry is performed deliberately, with intention and control. Each step is executed to support what can only be described as unrivaled dentistry, where outcomes are designed, not hoped for.
A comprehensive approach evaluates how each tooth functions within the entire system, how forces are distributed and how treatment will perform years from now. This level of thinking is central to the philosophy of Dr. Jeffrey Etess and is reflected in every aspect of care. With three decades of advanced clinical experience, his approach emphasizes biologic compatibility, precision execution and preservation whenever possible. It is a philosophy shared by the entire team.
Execution is intentional. Isolation is exact. Disinfection is comprehensive. Materials are selected for their ability to integrate with the body and perform over time.
Integrative Dental Specialists consistently delivers a higher standard of care. Patients may not see each step, but they experience the result: strength feels natural; comfort remains consistent; stability eliminates the expectation of recurring problems. This is the outcome of unrivaled dentistry.
The true cost of dentistry is not measured at the time of treatment. It is measured over years, in durability, function and its impact on overall health. A higher level of care is not about doing more. It is about doing it once, with precision, intention and respect for the biology that supports lasting health.
If you are seeking the finest, safest, healthiest and most predictable results for your dental needs, supported by the latest technology, contact Integrative Dental Specialists to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Etess today.
Jeffrey Etess, DMD, NMD, IBDM, graduated in the top 10% from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. An IVY LEAGUE trained Certified Endodontic Specialist/Implant Specialty Surgeon with a dual degree in Dentistry and Board Certified in Naturopathic & Integrative medicine & certified in biomimetic cosmetic dentistry to provide a broad array of biological dentistry covering all facets of restorative, cosmetic, prosthetic, surgical, endodontic, pediatric, periodontal and implant dentistry for his patients for almost 29 years. Visit idsli.com. See ad, page 15.
Milkos/DepositPhotos.com
Rethinking Weight Loss
A Smarter, More Sustainable Path with THINNR
by Dr. David Pollack
For years, the weight loss conversation has been dominated by quick fixes, restrictive diets and more recently, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. While these medications have certainly changed the landscape of obesity treatment, they also come with significant concerns—high cost, potential side effects, muscle loss and, for many patients, they become a lifetime commitment.
At Pollack Wellness, true wellness is defined as being sustainable, accessible and rooted in whole-body health. That’s why programs like THINNR are gaining so much attention.
THINNR offers a science-backed, clinically guided alternative to traditional GLP-1 medications by focusing on what the body actually needs to lose weight effectively: metabolic balance, detoxification, blood sugar regulation, appetite control and longterm behavioral change.
Rather than relying solely on injections that suppress appetite, THINNR uses a multi-step protocol that supports the body naturally. Its system includes FDA-registered homeopathic OTC formulations, nutritional guidance and a lifestyle-focused AI-powered app designed to help patients build habits that last.
Studies show that as many as 26 percent of GLP-1 patients discontinue treatment within three months due to cost or adverse reactions. Even more concerning, research suggests that 25 to 40 percent of the weight lost on GLP-1 medications may come from lean muscle mass rather than body fat. When patients stop treatment, weight regain is
THINNR is different. Its protocol emphasizes losing body fat while preserving muscle mass and supporting healthy hormone function. The system includes targeted formulas like Detox, which supports liver and kidney function during fat loss; Regulate, which helps stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity; and Boost, designed to assist patients transitioning off GLP-1 medications while helping manage cortisol and metabolic function.
This is particularly important because fat loss is not simply about calories—it is deeply connected to stress hormones, inflammation, gut health and insulin regulation. When these systems are out of balance, the body resists weight loss no matter how motivated the patient may be.
The THINNR program also focuses on compliance. The companion app is like a pocket health coach, offering meal planning support, AI-driven food recommendations, progress tracking, reminders, scale syncing and direct
provider communication. This helps patients stay engaged and accountable—two of the biggest predictors of long-term success.
But the most compelling difference is affordability. While GLP-1 medications can average over $11,000 annually, THINNR offers a significantly lower-cost model that supports both active weight loss and long-term maintenance without requiring lifelong injections.
Obesity is not just a willpower issue—it is a metabolic health issue. Nearly 70 percent of Americans are clinically overweight, over 40 percent are clinically obese and most are metabolically unhealthy long before disease shows up on lab work.
Solutions that do more than temporarily suppress hunger and systems that teach patients how to restore health are needed.
THINNR represents that next step: a more holistic, practical and sustainable way to approach weight loss—one that helps patients not only lose the weight, but keep it off while feeling stronger, healthier and more in control of their future.
Because real wellness isn’t about short-term results. It’s about creating a body that can thrive for life.
Dr. David L. Pollack is the founder of Pollack Wellness, located at 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com. See ad, page 7.
common and often with less muscle and a slower metabolism than before.
Milkos/DepositPhotos.com
Pelvic Power
Restoring Strength, Function and Confidence
by Hannah Tytus
The pelvic floor holds the key to vitality, confidence and even pleasure. According to Dr. Anna Cabeca, a holistic gynecologist and bestselling author of The Hormone Fix, “Pelvic floor health is essential for overall health. The pelvic floor is a sling of muscles supporting our critical organs, from the uterus to the bladder to the rectum. Everything is held within this bowl of muscles and connective tissue.”
Pelvic floor disorders are prevalent. A 2022 study in Scientific Reports examined more than 25,000 medical records and found that one in three people had a pelvic floor disorder. These included urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse (displacement) and bowel dysfunction, with incontinence and prolapse being the most frequent. Such conditions can significantly alter daily life. A 2021 survey of 4,556 women with pelvic floor symptoms showed that 46 percent stopped exercising due to pain or leakage, potentially leading to numerous other issues over time.
Dynamic Exercises for Foundational Integrity
Kim Vopni, a pelvic floor fitness educator and author of Your Pelvic Floor, has dedicated more than two decades to raising awareness about pelvic floor health through her global online community, The Buff Muff Method. Vopni states that the pelvic floor is not just
a single muscle but a complex network of muscles in three layers. The first layer mainly affects the sexual response, the second helps with continence and the openings of the urethra, vagina and anus, and the third, deepest layer primarily supports the organs. “Like the biceps or hamstrings, the pelvic floor can be stretched and strengthened and conditioned,” Vopni points out.
The pelvic floor works in synergy with the diaphragm to create a natural sump pump action that moves fluids, massages organs and supports lymphatic circulation. “The pelvic floor has to work when we are upright—moving, lifting, coughing, sneezing, pushing and jumping. When we inhale, the diaphragm contracts and widens, and ideally the belly expands and the pelvic floor lengthens,” Vopni explains. “With the exhale, the pelvic floor contracts and lifts as the diaphragm recoils upward. We harness this relationship when we want to prevent or overcome pelvic floor symptoms.”
This explains why the clench-and-release movements known as Kegel exercises, to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, are best done with coordinated breathing. According to Vopni, a proper Kegel includes a squeeze and lift on the exhale and a full, blooming release on the inhale. Aim for three sets of 10 repetitions per day, holding each contraction for about 10 seconds.
“People often think the only thing to do for pelvic floor optimization is Kegels, and that tight means strong. The goal is to move beyond isolated squeezes and train the pelvic floor dynamically within whole-body movement, where the breath and pelvic floor coordination are incorporated into exercises such as bridges, squats and lunges,” says Vopni, who recommends consulting a pelvic floor physical therapist for individualized assessment and guidance, particularly after pregnancy or childbirth.
Vopni highlights key habits that support pelvic floor function, such as staying well hydrated, preventing constipation and engaging in pelvic release work to relax chronically tight muscles. Posture is crucial; high-heeled shoes can misalign the pelvis and shorten the calves and hamstrings, leading to involuntary clenching of the glutes and pelvic floor muscles, which impairs optimal function. Vopni recommends wearing “zero drop” shoes whenever possible, where the heel and toe are at the same distance from the ground, mimicking a natural barefoot position.
H_KO/shutterstock
The Vaginal Microbiome
“The vagina has its own microbiome, and many people don’t realize that,” says Cabeca. “When the vaginal microbiome becomes unhealthy, we start to see problems with fertility, sexual function, dryness and infections.” Unlike the gut, which benefits from bacterial diversity, the vaginal microbiome thrives with fewer dominant species. A healthy vaginal microbiome is typically dominated by Lactobacillus species. Cabeca recommends a microbiome-supportive, “keto-green” diet rich in bitter greens, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, high-quality proteins and fermented foods, as well as vaginal probiotics taken in capsule form.
“Many vaginal hygiene products can disrupt the microbiome. Because the pelvic floor has so much vascularity [blood vessels], those tissues absorb chemicals very easily. That exposure can affect the glands and tissues that help keep the vaginal environment healthy,” Cabeca cautions. She recommends choosing organic menstrual products over conventional tampons and menstrual pads; avoiding heavily fragranced cosmetics; and using gentle cleansers such as olive oil–based soaps.
Knowing Our Bodies
Body awareness is a powerful tool for prevention and early intervention. “One of the most important things I tell patients is: Get a mirror and look down there,” Cabeca says. “You need to know your normal anatomy— what it looks like and what it feels like.” Understanding what is typical for our bodies can make it easier to recognize changes.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, former writer at the National Institutes of Health and host of the Root Shock podcast, exploring the cultural underpinnings of health.
Herbs are Nature’s Medicine
with Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H. (Certified Herbalist)
Vitality Her Way
Whole Womban Wellness
The most vital part of a womban is her womb. It is the very vortex of her existence and divine universal connection. At the very beginning of the menstrual cycle, yoga, regular exercise and herbs can facilitate a harmony and rhythm within the reproductive system, and leading to comfort and ease of pregnancy and labor and as well as into pre- and post-menopause.
Because womben’s bodies go through such profound changes during pregnancy and childbirth, the comfort and ease of pregnancy and labor can be facilitated with herbs specifically suited for the womban's feminine essence.
Red raspberry leaf (tea) is a specific herb for the entire reproductive system, regardless of age (after the initial onset of the menses). Lifelong spiritual practices and herbs can also bring some harmony and peace at the pause of the cycles.
The stem and root bark of Black Haw is excellent for easing painful menses and many other gynecological disorders. It helps ease menopausal symptoms, treats excessive bleeding, prolapsed uterus and morning sickness. Black Haw is an antispasmodic, a uterine tonic (prevents miscarriage), a nervine and antidysentery herb.
Breast-feeding moms can find relief from engorged breasts by dipping a cloth in parsley tea and applying as a hot compress to the breasts. This immediately causes the milk to draw down and flow freely. This same effect can be had by gently drawing the teeth of a comb down over the breasts.
Here are a few herbal tea suggestions for a womban’s various stages. To tone uterine muscles, use red raspberry leaf, apple peels, mint, blackberry and peach leaves (also reduces morning sickness). To alleviate symptoms of jaundice, anemia, constipation and toxemia, alfalfa and red raspberry leaves can help. To reduce acidity and help with iron assimilation, try borage, nettle and clover leaves. Take comfrey root tea as a general tonic.
Join our next Master Course cycle (June 6th), to discover how to use natural healing, herbs and meditation to create a more balanced and harmonious lifestyle. This course is designed with you in mind, to facilitate an opportunity for personal health transformation.
Zakiyyah Madyun, Certified Herbalist, teaches virtual herbal education classes twice monthly. For more information, visit her blog: HerbsAreNaturesMedicine.blogspot.com; for a consultation call 347-407-4312 or email theherbalist1750@gmail.com. See ad, page 15, and calendar listing, page 27.
Wings and Wonder
The Healing Effects of Birdwatching
by Sheryl DeVore
Amale northern cardinal sings “cheer, cheer, cheer” from a maple tree in a suburban neighborhood. Those that have heard or seen the common red bird know how such experiences can uplift the spirit. Birdwatching can help heal the mind and body, as well as enhance cognitive function, according to researchers. The activity, which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service states has 96 million participants in the United States alone, also fosters connections with community, science and the natural world.
The Song of Healing
Holly Merker is a team leader for Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird.org, an online database for reporting avian observations. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32, she had already been an avid birder, traveling extensively to add new species to her list. Her birding style changed after the diagnosis.
“I sought solace in the birds,” she explains. “When I was bald from chemotherapy, I knew that the birds weren’t going to judge me. I could show up and be myself and not be the cancer patient. Birds became my wellness companions.”
On one Mother’s Day during her cancer journey, when she could barely lift her arms to hold her binoculars, Merker found strength at a nearby birding spot. Hearing a familiar birdsong, she spotted the crooner in its nest. “In that moment, I identified what feats of survival that cerulean warbler had gone through,” she recalls. “They spend their winters in South America and fly thousands of miles north through wind and rain to nest. These birds are survivalists to the utmost degree. We were no different from each other.”
Merker co-wrote Ornitherapy: For Your Mind, Body and Soul with acclaimed birder Richard Crossley and his daughter Sophie Crossley. The book champions mindful birdwatching as a form of nature therapy that enhances sensory awareness, relieves stress and improves mental and physical well-being. Now 56 and in good health, Merker offers mindful birding workshops through Ornitherapy.com.
“One thing that really helped me in the first year after I finished my cancer treatment was tending to bluebird nest trails,” she remarks. “It got me walking and moving again. It gave me purpose. It was incredibly therapeutic. All the work I do with conservation, serving on boards and leading walks is because birds helped save my life, and now hopefully I am helping save them. I believe that when we start tuning into birds, we become better stewards of the environment.”
Finding Calm and Cognition
Birdwatching can be a balm for the anxious mind. “Instead of worrying about those problems that keep repeating themselves on a loop inside your head, watching birds can focus you outside yourself, as you search intently for a small movement in the trees, or a hint of color,” says Douglas T. Kenrick, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Arizona State University who began birding in earnest when he was 50.
For John Elliott, the beauty of birds, whether seen from the window or in the wild, exudes a calming effect. “Studies have shown that adding birdwatching to a walk in nature increases positive feelings and decreases distress,” says the Chicago Bird Alliance board member and retired naturalist and education manager for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, in Illinois.
A 2022 study published in Scientific Reports found that everyday encounters with birdlife were associated with lasting improvements in mental well-being in both healthy people and those diagnosed with depression. Another study, published in 2023 in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, reported that birdwatching among nursing home residents led to positive effects in mobility, cognitive function and mental health.
“When we are birding, we are actively engaging our minds and adding to our brain’s neuroplasticity,” Merker remarks. “I tell folks, instead of downloading brain games, watch birds.” A new study published in The Journal of Neuroscience suggests that expert birdwatchers possess superior brain cognition and structural brain differences compared to beginners, which may help protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Tips for Beginners
“Birding on your own is just fine if that suits you, but you can also visit a nature center, which may offer opportunities for birdwatching, including guided walks and feeder observations,” Elliott suggests. “You can also attend free bird walks led by local bird club members or buy a feeder and watch from your window.”
Fancy equipment isn’t necessary. “It’s just about noticing the birds around you and paying attention,” Merker says. “If people want to take it to the next level, a pair of binoculars will enhance their experiences. You’ll get a closer view from a distance. You can get a pair of binoculars on eBay for a good price, and lots of groups let you borrow some.”
Merker suggests finding a place to sit outside—in the backyard, a local park or near a pond. “Then let the birds come to you,” she says. “Whatever bird shows up is enough for you to find joy.”
An outdoors columnist and photographer for the Chicago Tribune, Sheryl DeVore has authored several books on nature. Reach her at sheryldevorewriter@gmail.com.
Stop Trying and Start Doing
A Conversation With Carla Ondrasik
by Sandra Yeyati
Carla Ondrasik is a motivational speaker, life coach and author of Stop Trying!: The Life-Transforming Power of Trying Less and Doing More. Her book, along with one-on-one sessions, workshops and keynote talks, inspire people to shift their mindset from passivity, anxiety and regrets to action, learning and achievement.
She served as the vice president of creative writer development for EMI Music. During her 25-year career in the entertainment industry, she placed hit songs with chart-topping artists and iconic performers, including Barbra Streisand, Johnny Mathis, Mariah Carey, Cher and Christina Aguilera. She lives in Southern California with her husband, musical artist John Ondrasik, who she discovered, signed and developed under the moniker Five for Fighting, known for soft-rock hits like Superman, 100 Years and The Riddle
Could you elaborate on the main premise of your book?
The dictionary defines “trying” as an attempt or an effort to do something. We believe trying is brave, that it’s a first step, but it’s merely a half-hearted attempt. There is no physical action for trying—it’s more of a mental exercise. You’re thinking or talking about a goal or writing it on a to-do list. In a car, you shift to neutral when you’re idling. Trying is like keeping your brain in neutral.
If somebody tells you to touch your nose, you’ll probably put your index finger on it—that’s “doing”. But what if someone tells you to try touching your nose? Do you put your finger on your nose or not? There is no action for trying. Our brain responds the same way when we think about trying—it’s a form of decision paralysis.
Why do we so frequently say, “I’ll try”?
We’re taught to try by our parents and teachers who say, “Try your best” or “Try harder.” Trying creates a safety net of excuses so you can say, “Well, I tried, but . . .” and fill in the blank. We also like to blame outside forces: “I tried, but they didn’t have that tool I needed.” When you do something, there’s a built-in accountability, but saying, “I’m going to try” removes any accountability.
We say, “I’ll try,” because it’s hard to say, “No,” especially for women. Trying is also a clever form of procrastination. We say, “I’m trying to do it,” instead of admitting, “I’m going to procrastinate for six weeks” or “I’m never going to do it.”
Subconsciously, we know that trying isn’t the best choice. If you have driving-age kids, you don’t say, “Try to stop at stop signs.” You can’t try to pay your rent or you’ll be evicted. These examples are everywhere, yet we’re not fully conscious of them. I want to restore awareness so people can actually achieve these goals.
How can we make the switch from trying to doing?
At my local park, I asked a man who always wore headphones on his walks, “What are you listening to?” He replied, “Self-help audiobooks, because I have a lot I’m trying to get done.” Hearing “try” caught my attention, so I asked, “What’s one thing you’re trying to do?” He said, “I’m trying to get back into swimming because I need the exercise.” I told him, “Stop trying to swim and just swim.”
The following day at the park, he approached me excitedly, saying, “I did it! I swam! I didn’t try!” This perfectly illustrates what trying
Courtesy of Jake Isham
looks like—reading books, listening to podcasts, seeking motivation, thinking, worrying, talking, but not doing. Jumping into that pool transformed his life.
I’m not saying that when you stop trying success is guaranteed and all your dreams will come true. However, when you stop trying, you increase your chances of success. Taking action activates your brain. It’s neuroscience. You speak more assertively, sit up straighter and your eyes shine brighter. You become more confident and feel more motivated and positive.
“Doing” is diving into the deep end of the pool and figuring it out. If swimming a certain way isn’t working or you need a life preserver, you figure it out. Maybe you need to pivot. You may not know if it will work when you start, but that’s when you discover the best path. If you stay stuck in the trying place, you’ll never truly know. Don’t retreat when it gets uncomfortable or scary. Dive in. Taking action is empowering and exciting. Trying leaves you with regrets of things left undone.
How can we overcome our resistance to a more active lifestyle?
Perfectionism can keep us stuck in a cycle of trying. Don’t wait for the perfect time to start something because it’s never going to be the perfect time. Begin now. I suggest starting with something small and manageable. And when you complete it, feel proud of your accomplishment. That small action will motivate you to do the next task and the next, eventually tackling bigger goals and accomplishments.
People complain, “I just can’t get motivated. I’ve been trying so hard, but nothing is happening.” We think that motivation comes first, but actually, action comes first. When you start to do the thing, then you become motivated to keep going.
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/OndrasikWW or scan the QR code.
Sacred Healing 7 Herb Center
Complete Integrative Master Course
Join Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H., for a yearlong curriculum in Herbs, Essential Oils, Chakra & Crystal Healing. Learn to create safe and effective formulas, explore plant medicine and crystal healing and study healing traditions from Ayurveda, African Healing and the Chinese Five Elements.
Starting June 2026 (through May 2027)
1st & 3rd Saturdays
10am–noon EST
Virtual (all sessions recorded) $200/month
Contact: theherbalist1750@gmail.com 347-407-4312
Mindful Mondays with Michael
Free Meditation
Group
Hosted by Michael Lehrman Co-Publisher, Natural Awakenings NYC & Long Island
The free sessions are open to ALL, with no experience and no expectations necessary, honoring a collective coming together of Natural Awakenings readers.
Monday, May18
6–7pm • Google
Meets
To learn more or register, contact publisher@naturalawakeningsny.com or call/text: 212-726-1420
The Eye SummitTM
The 2nd Annual Eye Summit™ 2026 spotlights preventative eye care
Discover strategies from 20+ world-renowned eye care experts to help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for life.
Join The Eye Summit™, a free global event where leading experts share practical tips for better eye health. Featuring public and practitioner tracks, attendees can also choose an optional upgrade for extended access and bonus content.
May 11-15
Monday - Friday
Online, worldwide - Interviews released daily at 9 am
Contact:
Dr. Rani (Rudrani) Banik, MD, FMCP-M info@rudranibanikmd.com TheEyeSummit.com
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Go to the Home page and click on the “In This Issue” image in the right column.
Travel as Wellness
Why More Women Are Choosing Experiences That Restore
Hip Health in Just Minutes a Day
A Simple, Empowering Practice
Lessons for Young Female Athletes
How To Support Resilience, Agency and Joy
Giving an Old Bike New Life
More Than Soup
Lentils as a Modern Wellness Staple
Holistic
Weight Management for Cats
Tips to Improve Nutrition and Encourage Physical Activity
Rediscovering Fun
COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Dr. Robins Dr. Pollack
Jean McClelland
Community Resource Guide
Alexander Technique
JEAN MCCLELLAND, MMUS., MAMSAT
JeanMcClellandVoice.com
Private lessons and workshops: voice, breathing and Alexander Technique. Jean McClelland has more than 40 years’ experience as a performer and teacher. She has helped thousands of students free their bodies, strengthen their breathing and uncover the natural beauty of their voices. See ad, page 10.
Certification Course
THE CALM MONKEY
Mindfulness Facilitator Training & Certification
Wendy@TheCalmMonkey.com TheCalmMonkey.com
Become a certified mindfulness facilitator through a self-paced online course with resources, peer support and tools to bring mindfulness into workplaces and community settings. See ad, page 9.
Chiropractic
CENTER FOR THE ALIGNMENT OF BODY, MIND & SPIRIT
Dr. Gina Marino 2213A Wantagh Ave, Wantagh 516-221-3500 Align-Me.com
Dr. Marino utilizes a combination of gentle chiropractic spinal adjustments, Reiki and bodywork to reduce pain, lessen the effects of stress on your system, restore flexibility and ensure optimum vitality. See ad, page 13.
New York City | Long Island community Can't find what you're looking for?
More businesses, organizations, services and practitioners are listed on NaturalAwakeningsNY.com
Clinical Nutrition
BEAUTY & THE GREENS
MDC NUTRITION & WELLNESS
Mabel Del Castillo Guccione, MS Mabel@BeautyAndTheGreens.com BeautyAndTheGreens.com
Guiding individuals to break free from dieting, reclaim confidence around food, and foster an abundance mindset. Learn to eat empowered, reconnect with your whole self through mindful eating, and adopt a balanced, sustainable approach to nutrition, unlocking a vibrant, joyful and healthier version of yourself. See ad, page 25.
THE BIAMONTE CENTER FOR CLINICAL NUTRITION
Michael Biamonte, CCN 2185 34th Ave, Ste 14D • Astoria, NY 866-240-8651
Info@Health-Truth.com Health-Truth.com
Michael Biamonte has been in practice for over 30 years, is the author of “The Candida Chronicles” and is a world recognized candida elimination expert. His office has proprietary software developed for NASA that helps identify and treat all nutritional deficiencies. Offering both online and in-person appointments.
Conscious Centers
AUM SHANTI BOOKSHOP
230 E 14th St, NYC 212-260-2866
AumShantiBookshop.com
Aum Shanti Bookshop is a community-oriented spiritual gallery providing offerings that inspire clarity, guidance and inspiration on one’s journey. They offer high-vibration, reikicharged and spiritually energized items such as a semi-precious gems and tumbled stones, one-of-a kind rare crystal specimens and clusters, beautifully hand-crafted jewelry made with love and empowering energy. Join for tarot, psychic and astrology readings.
NAMASTE BOOKSHOP & HEALING CENTER
2 W 14th St, NYC
212-645-0141
NamasteBookshop.com
Namaste Bookshop and Healing Center offers a unique and large selection of Eastern and Western philosophy books, tarot cards, crystals, pendulums, calendars, wind chimes, incense, greeting cards, yoga accessories, meditation cushions, instructional and music CDs and DVDs, salt lamps, and 20 sections of books – including Spanish. The event space above the bookshop holds classes, workshops and book signings, and provides rooms for regular readers and practitioners.
Energy Healing
ANN KORONOWSKI
Cert. Soul Realignment Practitioner By online appointment/ Schenectady AnnEnergyHealer.com
Allow me to access your soul's divine blueprint through your Akashic Record to discover your true gifts and why your current patterns of choice may not be in alignment with your soul’s intentions. Learn actionable steps to create the life your soul intended. Other services, energy healer, psychic readings.
BILL ROBERT
Remote Lightworker
Based in Manhattan
770-990-9191
InmateHealing@gmail.com
Bill-Robert.com
Remote spiritual Lightwork offers emotional and creative healing, especially for artists. In-person sessions are available for returning clients near the West Village. See ad, page 9.
Energy Healing Center
ASCENTIAH HEALING CENTER
122 E 55th St 5 Fl
New York, NY 10022
646-476-4847 • Info@Ascentiah.com Ascentiah.com
Located in Midtown NYC, Ascentiah offers holistic healing to support clarity, emotional balance and nervous system regulation. Through energy work and intuitive guidance, we help you realign with your authentic self and reconnect to a deeper sense of well-being.
Health Food Store
WHOLE FOODS
MARKET
8 Locations in Manhattan WholeFoodsMarket.com
Whole Foods Market is an eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products. We support local communities & agriculture, practice and advance environmental stewardship, support & rewards team member excellence and encourage and educate on all aspects of healthy living. See ad, page 27.
Herbs & Natural Medicine
SACRED HEALING 7 HERB CENTER with Zakiyyah Madyun, C.H. Since 1985
TheHerbalist1750@gmail.com 347-407-4312 • NYC
For over forty years, the Sacred Healing 7 Herb Center has offered naturopathic, experiential curricula that educate you about various alternative healing modalities so that you can heal yourself physically, emotionally, and energetically, restore your health, and raise your vitality. Available for private/group workshops, seminars, and other events in local NYC locations. See ad, page 15.
Holistic Dentistry
CARIODONTAL
A Place for Dental Wellness
Jonathan Richter DDS, FAGD Specializing in Periodontics and Implantology Periodontal Prosthesis, and Fixed Prosthodontics 525 West End Ave, Suite 1G, NYC 212-874-2880 • Cariodontal.com
We welcome you to come in for a comprehensive exam of teeth, gums, early detection, and oral health problems. We offer the following services: holistic dental care, mercuryfree dentistry, TMJ disorder and treatment, treatment for sleep disorders, Invisalign and orthodontics, dental implant, sleep apnea. Payment plans available. See ad, back cover.
GOLDEN DENTAL WELLNESS
444 Community Dr, Ste 204, Manhasset 516-627-8400 • GoldenSmile.com
A practice that cares for you like family. The philosophy of our dental wellness center is a whole-body approach working closely with your healthcare practitioners that you already have a relationship with. The practice incorporates the teaching of Huggins, IOAMT, and much more. See ad, page 2.
INTEGRATIVE DENTAL SPECIALISTS
Long Island: 245 Hillside Ave, Williston Park, NY • 516-253-1800 Manhattan: 120 E 56th St • 212-845-9740
DrJeff@idsli.com
IntegrativeDentalNY.com
Dr. Jeff created Integrative Dental Specialist to provide the best comprehensive dental care today. There is always an emphasis on biocompatible and holistic dentistry to create a natural and beautiful smile you can be proud of. Dr. Jeff has achieved a highly professional, relaxed, caring, and pain-free environment for his patients, with sedation dentistry available if required. See ads, pages 15 and 19.
It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority.
— Mandy Hale
Holistic Education
OMEGA INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC STUDIES
150 Lake Drive
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
800-944-1001 • eOmega.org
Open from May to October, we offer a wide variety of workshops and retreats, led by world-class teachers on our beautiful 250-acre campus, just 90 miles north of New York City. Can’t make it to Rhinebeck? Join us for a livestream.
Integrative Coaching
GOOD MOOD INTEGRATIVE LLC
2248 Broadway # 1789, NY, NY 10024 917-245-5105
Griselle.GoodMood@gmail.com
Griselle Phillips, LCSW, helps clients overcome feeling stuck and overwhelmed using holistic methods. She offers single sessions or a 12week program. Prospective clients may schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss their needs and goals.
Naturopathic Medicine FINKER WELLNESS
Bellmore
516-765-3272 • DrFinker.com
Utilizing Naturopathic Medicine to help her patients feel better naturally. Many illnesses can be treated by nutrition, botanicals, and nutraceuticals. Dr. Finker provides personalized health care solutions for her patients. See ad, page 17.
POLLACK
WELLNESS
66 Commack Rd, Commack, NY 631-462-0801 • PollackWellness.com
Dr. David L Pollack specializes in functional nutrition which is the science of helping repair and restore the body naturally without the use of drugs and surgery. Many of his clients were frustrated with their past health care; conventional or holistic. Most seek help with their thyroid, weight loss, digestive disorders, hormone imbalances including infertility, menstrual & Low T. We accept those with or without diagnosis, complex and simple disorders. Most insurance policies accepted for many services. See ad, page 7.
Nutrition
OPTIMAL FRUITS & VEGGIE PLUS
939 Eighth Ave, Third Fl, Ste 307 New York, 646-320-8999
M4hf.com
Whole food supplements rich in phytonutrients are shown to support joint health, heart health, cognitive function, and overall vitality through natural antioxidant protection.
Dr. Banik is a board-certified Ophthalmologist specializing in Integrative and Functional Medicine. She helps prevent vision loss from common conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes, and cataracts, naturally, without drugs or surgeries. A holistic approach using eye-smart nutrition, botanicals, supplements, and lifestyle choices. See ad, page 5.
Ozone Therapy
DR. HOWARD ROBINS
The Healing Center
200 W 57th St, Ste 807, NYC 212-581-0101
DrHowardRobins@gmail.com OzoneDoctor.net
If you have a disease or condition that you haven’t been able to get rid of, Ozone Therapy will most likely be the answer, even for people that have suffered for years and have lost all hope. If you are questioning if your condition can be treated, call or email Dr. Robins today. See ads, pages 3 and 4.
Pyschotherapy
PRESENT CENTERED THERAPIES
Michael Mongno, MFT, Ph.D, LP Upper West Side • 212-799-0001
Michael Mongno MFT, Ph.D LP is a licensed psychoanalyst, marriage and family therapist, and holistic counselor based in Manhattan. Committed to creating a real difference in the world, his “Real change in real time” describes the dynamic, effective synthesis of personal growth and spiritual transformation
Skin Care
MASSAGE FOR HEALTH AND FITNESS
Nigel Hunt, LMT New York, 646-329-8999 M4hf.com
Offers an Anti-Aging Face Lift Massage, blending acupressure and massage to rejuvenate skin, boost circulation and reduce wrinkles naturally. Find out who you are and do it on purpose.
