Vegas Wellness Magazine

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LINDSAY GAMBIT

CEO & Founder of Infusion Care 2023

Courage Ball Healthcare Provider of the Year

We combine decades of medical expertise with a whole-body integrative approach to health, wellness, anti-aging, illness, disease and more. Our experienced team of professionals at Infusion Care are here to help you redefine what health and wellness mean to you.

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Infusions and Injections formulated to help with: Immunity | Cognitive Repair/NAD+ | Stress Management Sports Performance | Hair, Skin & Nails | Jet Lag/Recovery Infertility and MORE

OCTOBER 2025

PUBLISHER

Bill Shehan // 702 589 1282

EDITOR

Stephanie Shehan // stephanie@vegaswellnessmag.com // 702 622 8001

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Jennifer Walker // jennifer@vegaswellnessmag.com // 775 375 0415

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrea Caple

Anna Ketron Cusano

Earl Mann

Gia Kubik

Hannah S. Grushkowsky

Ilona Pamplona

Jaden Rae

Janelle Ardizzone

COVER ART

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Jennifer Walker

Katie Peede

Manoj K. Sharma

Saba Tesfay

Sarah Schwefel

Shwa Laytart

Steven Dee Kish

Tsikki Thau

ADVERTISING SALES

Stephanie Shehan // stephanie@vegaswellnessmag.com // 702 622 8001

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COPY EDITOR

Effie Armstrong - info@vegaswellnessmag.com

Las Vegas’ One-of-a-Kind Wellness Studio

Just off the 95 at Craig Road sits something Las Vegas has never quite seen before: Be Well Studio. Opened this past April, it’s more than a spa, and nothing like a gym, it’s a wellness studio built around longevity, healing, and recovery. Here, wellness isn’t just about the body. It’s about restoring the mind and soul too. With more than 15 science-backed therapies all under one roof, and no appointments required, Be Well is designed for convenience, flexibility, community, and especially results. It’s a place where prioritizing your health and well-being feels natural, simple, and, most of all, possible.

Neither of Be Well Studio’s owners is a stranger to hardship. Nelson Tressler’s life began as the product of rape, and his childhood was marked by being at the center of the largest murder trial his small town had ever seen, an experience so defining that he later chronicled it in his bestselling book, The Unlucky Sperm Club

Adam Brown’s path was equally challenging. He spent much of his childhood in and out of foster care before finally being adopted as a teenager into a large, blended family.

Those early trials forged in both men an unshakable drive to succeed in life and business. Later, when Adam moved into Nelson’s neighborhood, the two met at church, quickly forming a friendship that deepened through shared values and experiences.

It was the more recent struggles within their families: Nelson’s fatherin-law passing away from cancer, his wife’s aunt being diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s, and Adam’s adopted father facing Parkinson’s disease that fueled their shared passion for health, wellness, and longevity.

“What started as a friendship quickly became a mission,” Nelson reflects. “We wanted to create a place people would actually use, a place I would use. At Be Well, you can come in and enjoy time to yourself when that’s what you need, or come in and be part of a supportive community when you want connection. It’s all about living a longer, healthier, more productive life, wellness truly on your terms.”

Unlike most wellness facilities, Be Well Studio isn’t built on volume, it’s built on connection. Memberships are intentionally capped at just 250 people, creating an intimate community where everyone feels seen and supported. Members enjoy unlimited daily access, guest passes that make it easy to bring family, friends, or clients, and flexible options like day passes and session packs. The philosophy is simple: no appointments, and everything you need in one place, wellness on your terms, shared with like-minded people.

Be Well Studio is also the perfect setting for a private celebration like

nothing you have ever experienced. The studio offers private wellness events that transform birthdays, bachelorette parties, corporate retreats, or team-building nights into unforgettable experiences. Guests can enjoy saunas, cold plunges, sound therapy, and more in a setting that blends luxury with community. Whether it’s about relaxation, recovery, or simply spending meaningful time together, Be Well’s private events deliver a oneof-a-kind way to celebrate health and connection in Las Vegas.

With more than 15 therapies under one roof, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why Be Well created its signature Be Well Experiences, carefully designed wellness circuits that guide you through a sequence of treatments for maximum results in only an hour. For example, the Red Aqua Flame of Wellness Experience blends red light therapy, sound vibration, sauna, cold plunge, and hot tub to target inflammation and muscle recovery. Or, if stress relief is your goal, the Serene BioBalance Experience combines the InHarmony sound lounge, red light, salt cave, oxygen bar, and BioCharger to calm the mind and reset the nervous system. Each experience takes the guesswork out of wellness, so all you have to do is show up and feel the difference.

Because nothing like this has ever existed in Las Vegas before, Be Well Studio is opening its doors with an exclusive promotion just for Vegas Wellness Magazine readers. For only $39, you can experience three different services of your choice and discover firsthand what this one-ofa-kind wellness studio is all about.

It’s the perfect way to see why Be Well Studio is redefining recovery, healing, and longevity in the valley. Call (702) 789-0008 or visit bewellstudio.life to claim your exclusive Vegas Wellness Magazine offer.

SERVICES OFFERED

Be Well Studio offers more than 15 wellness modalities to support recovery, stress reduction, immune health, mental well-being, and physical performance.

BioCharger NG

Modern life often keeps us indoors, limiting our exposure to the natural energies essential for optimal health. Be Well Studio’s BioCharger NG sessions bring those benefits to you in a convenient, relaxing setting. The BioCharger room accommodates up to four people at once, leveraging four key natural energies—light, frequencies and harmonics, voltage, and PEMFs—to enhance vitality.

Float Therapy

Be Well Studio offers float therapy to help you decompress and deeply relax, easing the stresses of everyday life. Also known as sensory deprivation pods, these salt-saturated tanks eliminate gravity’s pull on your muscles, joints, and nervous system for total body and mind relief.

Cold Plunge

Cold plunges are a powerful way to awaken your senses and boost overall well-being. At Be Well, you can safely reset and recharge with cold immersion known for its restorative benefits. Cold plunges help optimize both physical and mental performance, with temperature options at 40°, 50°, 60°, or 70°F.

Hot Tub

Be Well blends wellness with connection through a relaxing, rejuvenating hot tub experience. Whether you’re easing muscle tension, unwinding after a long day, or simply connecting with others, hot tub therapy helps you feel your best.

Compression Therapy

This non-invasive treatment improves circulation and speeds recovery, helping you feel rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready for what’s next.

Hyperbaric Chamber

Be Well offers advanced Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and support tissue regeneration. By delivering pure oxygen under pressure, HBOT enhances recovery and overall wellness.

Saunas

Be Well features three distinct sauna options, each with unique benefits:

• Infrared Sauna – Supports weight loss, detoxification, anti-aging, pain relief, and improved sleep.

• Workout Sauna – Enhances circulation, burns calories, lowers blood pressure, and boosts mental health while supporting arthritis and inflammation relief.

• Traditional Dry Sauna – Offers a classic, cleansing heat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Salt Cave Therapy

Step into the halotherapy room and breathe in microscopic salt particles released into the air. This natural therapy supports respiratory health, improves skin conditions, and promotes deep relaxation and mental clarity.

Red Light Therapy

This non-invasive therapy uses low-level red light wavelengths to stimulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. It’s ideal for smoother skin, faster recovery, and enhanced vitality.

Massage Chairs

Unwind in two state-of-the-art massage chairs, including a hydro massage option, designed to reduce stress, relieve sore muscles, and restore balance to body and mind.

InHarmony Sound Lounge

Recharge with this unique sound therapy experience, where vibrational healing and soothing frequencies promote relaxation, focus, and mental clarity.

Oxygen Therapy

The Be Well oxygen bar delivers a refreshing boost that enhances energy, improves mental sharpness, and speeds recovery after physical activity.

IV Therapy

Be Well provides advanced IV drips, NAD+ treatments, and vitamin shots to restore hydration, elevate energy, and accelerate recovery—leaving you refreshed and revitalized.

Be Well Studio // 7083 W Craig Road, Ste. 195, Las Vegas, NV 89129 (702) 789-0008 // bewellstudio.life // IG bewellstudio.life

TO WARM YOUR BODY AND NOURISH YOUR SOUL >>> 5 HEALTHY FALL DRINKS

When the air gets crisp, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a warm drink. But not all fall beverages need to be loaded with sugar and artificial flavors to feel comforting. In fact, some of the best seasonal drinks are packed with nutrients, natural spices, and ingredients that can boost your immune system, calm your mind, and support your health during the cooler months.

Here are five delicious, healthy fall drinks you can sip on guilt-free with quick recipes so you can whip them up at home.

Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

Golden milk has become a wellness favorite in recent years, and for good reason. This warm, golden-hued drink combines turmeric, a powerful anti-inflammatory spice, with milk (dairy or plant-based), ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. The blend not only tastes like fall in a cup but also helps soothe digestion, fight inflammation, and support immunity, perfect for the cold and flu season.

Recipe:

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

½ tsp turmeric powder

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground ginger

Pinch of black pepper (for turmeric absorption)

1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Heat the milk in a saucepan, whisk in the spices, and simmer for 3–5 minutes. Sweeten to taste with honey or maple syrup and enjoy warm.

Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Tonic

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a fall staple that goes beyond cooking. Rich in acetic acid, it supports gut health, helps regulate blood sugar, and may boost metabolism. Paired with warm water, lemon, and cinnamon, it makes a soothing yet energizing drink that can be enjoyed in the morning or afternoon.

Recipe:

1 cup warm water

1 tbsp raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp raw honey (optional)

Stir everything together in a mug. Sip slowly, ideally before a meal, to help aid digestion and balance blood sugar.

Chai Spice Herbal Tea

Chai tea is a fall classic, but store-bought chai lattes often come loaded with sugar. Making your own caffeine-free version with warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger gives you all the cozy flavor with added health benefits. These spices are rich in antioxidants, help improve circulation, and provide natural digestive support.

Recipe:

1 cup water

1 cinnamon stick

2–3 cardamom pods

2–3 whole cloves

2–3 thin slices fresh ginger

½ cup milk of choice

Honey to taste

Bring water and spices to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Add milk, warm through, strain, and sweeten lightly. This makes a fragrant, warming drink perfect for evenings.

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Pumpkin is not just for pies and lattes, it’s also a nutrient-dense superfood packed with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. A pumpkin spice smoothie is a great way to enjoy fall flavors in a lighter, more refreshing way while still fueling your body with whole foods.

Recipe:

½ cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling)

1 frozen banana

½ cup unsweetened almond milk

½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)

1 tbsp nut butter (almond, cashew, or peanut)

1 tsp maple syrup (optional)

Blend all ingredients until creamy. This makes for a nutritious breakfast or post-workout snack that tastes like dessert.

Warm Pear & Ginger Elixir

Pears are often overlooked in fall recipes, but they’re rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. When paired with fresh ginger, they make a soothing, subtly sweet drink that helps calm the stomach, ease inflammation, and keep you hydrated.

Recipe:

1 ripe pear, sliced

2 thin slices fresh ginger

1 cup water

½ tsp cinnamon

Honey to taste

Simmer pear slices, ginger, and cinnamon in water for 10–15 minutes. Strain into a mug and add honey if desired. This gentle elixir is perfect before bed for a calming, digestive-friendly drink.

Fall is the season of cozy flavors and warm drinks, but it doesn’t have to mean overindulging in sugarladen lattes or store-bought mixes. From turmericrich golden milk to a refreshing pumpkin spice smoothie, these recipes are simple, wholesome, and filled with ingredients that support your health.

Each drink offers its own unique benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, immune support, digestive aid, or simply nourishing comfort, and they all fit seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle. The best part? They’re quick to make, customizable, and delicious enough to replace those heavy seasonal treats we often crave.

So next time you’re reaching for a fall-inspired drink, skip the artificial syrups and try one of these instead. Your body will thank you while your taste buds still get the cozy, autumn vibes they love.

UNLOCK YOUR DNA >>>

The MTHFR Gene Test Everyone's Talking About

In the world of personalized wellness, few discoveries have been as intriguing as understanding MTHFR gene variants. This tiny genetic difference affects how your body uses folate (vitamin B9) and powers a crucial process called methylation, which is your body's master control system for everything from mood regulation to healthy aging.

The remarkable part? About one in four people worldwide carries an MTHFR variant, making it one of the most common genetic differences among humans. Yet most people have never heard of it.

But here's what's crucial to understand: while MTHFR variants can be an important piece of your health puzzle, they're just that, one piece. Your well-being is influenced by countless factors, including hormones, thyroid function, gut health, nutrient status, stress levels, sleep quality, and environmental exposures. Understanding your MTHFR status can provide valuable insights, but it should never be viewed as the single answer to complex health challenges.

Methylation: Your Body's Master Control System

Think of methylation as your cellular housekeeping system. It's constantly turning genes on and off, clearing toxins, and maintaining the delicate balance that keeps you feeling vibrant.

When your methylation system is working optimally, you experience what wellness experts call "optimal vitality," that enviable combination of sustained energy, mental clarity, and emotional resilience that makes some people seem to effortlessly glow with health.

But when methylation is sluggish, the effects ripple through every aspect of your wellbeing:

• Energy crashes that leave you reaching for your third cup of coffee

• Mental fog that makes simple decisions feel overwhelming

• Mood swings that seem to come from nowhere

• Sleep that never feels truly restorative

Research also suggests that MTHFR variants may be associated with increased risk for:

• Depression and anxiety

• Autoimmune conditions

• Migraines and headaches

• Certain cancers (including increased stomach cancer risk)

• Autism spectrum disorders

• Pregnancy complications, miscarriages, and fertility challenges

• Birth defects and a higher risk for Down syndrome

• Cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, stroke, and blood clots

• Thyroid dysfunction

However, it's crucial to remember that having an MTHFR variant doesn't guarantee you'll develop any of these conditions. These symptoms and risks can also have many other underlying causes. Thyroid dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, chronic infections, or adrenal issues can all create similar symptoms. This is why a comprehensive approach to health assessment is so valuable.

The Surprising Upside of MTHFR Variants

Here's where the story gets interesting: having an MTHFR variant isn't all challenges. Research suggests that people with these genetic

differences often possess some remarkable advantages:

Enhanced focus and intensity – Many successful entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators carry MTHFR variants. The same genetic difference that can cause sensitivity also seems to fuel exceptional focus and drive.

Superior DNA repair – Your cells may actually be better at fixing genetic damage, potentially offering protection against certain diseases.

Heightened awareness – That increased sensitivity that can feel overwhelming can also translate to remarkable intuition, creativity, and the ability to read situations and people.

The Modern Challenge: Why Your Genes Are Struggling

Our ancestors never had to deal with the perfect storm that makes MTHFR variants so challenging today:

The Folic Acid Problem: Everywhere You Turn

Perhaps the most significant challenge for people with MTHFR variants is synthetic folic acid, and in the United States, it's virtually impossible to escape. Since 1998, the FDA has mandated folic acid fortification in an extensive range of products, creating a food environment that can be particularly challenging for those with MTHFR variants.

Synthetic folic acid is found in:

• All enriched flours, breads, cereals, and pasta

• Most packaged and processed foods

• Breakfast cereals and protein bars

• Even gluten-free products – rice flour, corn flour, and other gluten-free grain products are routinely fortified with folic acid

• Gluten-free breads, crackers, and baked goods

• Many plant-based meat alternatives and protein products

• Nutritional supplements and multivitamins

• Energy drinks and fortified beverages

The challenge is that synthetic folic acid can actually block your body's ability to use natural folate effectively. For people with MTHFR variants, this creates a double problem: not only do they have reduced ability to process folate, but the synthetic form may be actively interfering with the natural folate they desperately need.

This means that even health-conscious individuals following glutenfree diets may unknowingly be consuming significant amounts of synthetic folic acid daily. Reading labels becomes essential, as folic acid fortification is so widespread that it appears in products you'd never suspect.

Other Modern Challenges

Toxin tsunami – From air pollution to household chemicals, we're exposed to more toxins than any generation in history.

Stress epidemic – Chronic stress depletes the nutrients your methylation system needs to function.

Sleep deprivation – Poor sleep disrupts the cellular repair processes that depend on optimal methylation.

We're asking our bodies to run on premium fuel while filling them with regular gas. For people with MTHFR variants, this mismatch can be even more pronounced.

Your Personalized Wellness Blueprint

The beauty of understanding your MTHFR status lies in how it can inform your approach to self-care, while remembering it's part of a larger wellness strategy that should address all aspects of your health.

Nourish Your Genes

Green goddess foods – Make leafy greens like spinach, kale, and arugula your allies. These powerhouses contain natural folate in the exact form your body prefers.

Cruciferous champions – Broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower don't just provide folate; they support your body's detoxification pathways.

Protein perfection – Pasture-raised eggs and grass-fed liver (if you can handle it) offer folate alongside other methylation-supporting nutrients.

Bean there, done that – Lentils and beans provide gentle, sustained folate along with stabilizing fiber.

Lifestyle Alchemy

Movement as medicine – Regular exercise doesn't just build strength; it optimizes methylation by improving circulation and supporting cellular repair.

Stress transformation – Focus on practices that actually improve your stress resilience: meditation, breathwork, time in nature.

Sleep sanctuary – Quality sleep isn't a luxury for MTHFR variants; it's essential medicine. Create a sleep environment that supports deep, restorative rest.

Toxin detox – Choose cleaner personal care products, filter your water, and give your liver the support it needs to process modern life's chemical burden.

The Supplement Controversy: Why More Isn't Always Better

Here's where many people get tripped up: assuming that if folate is good, megadoses of methyl-folate must be better. Not so fast.

The Dangerous Oversimplification

Unfortunately, the growing awareness of MTHFR has led to widespread

misinformation, particularly on social media and in wellness circles. Many public speakers without medical backgrounds, and even some medical professionals, automatically recommend methylated vitamins the moment someone tests positive for MTHFR variants. This one-size-fits-all approach can be problematic and even harmful.

The reality is much more nuanced. Some people become overstimulated, anxious, or unable to sleep when taking high-dose methylated supplements, which is a condition known as overmethylation. This happens because methylation is a delicate balance, and flooding your system with methyl donors can push some people too far in the opposite direction.

The Missing Piece: Other Genetic Factors

What many practitioners fail to consider is that MTHFR doesn't operate in isolation. Other genetic variants and factors come into play, particularly COMT (which breaks down neurotransmitters like dopamine), dramatically influencing how your body responds to methylated supplements. Someone with both MTHFR variants and slow COMT variants may become severely overstimulated by standard methylated supplement protocols that work fine for others.

This is why genetic testing should ideally look at multiple pathways, not just MTHFR in isolation. The response varies dramatically from person to person, and other factors and gene mutations like COMT need to be taken into account, which is why working with knowledgeable healthcare practitioners who understand these complex interactions is so important.

Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a foundation of good nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and other healthsupporting practices.

The Epigenetic Revolution: Your Power to Rewrite Your Health Story

Perhaps the most exciting part of the MTHFR story is what it reveals

about your power to influence your own health destiny. While you can't change your genes, you have tremendous control over how those genes are expressed.

Scientists now know that only about 10% of your health outcomes are determined by your genetic inheritance. The other 90% comes from epigenetics – how your lifestyle choices turn genes on and off. This means that whether or not you have MTHFR variants, your daily choices around nutrition, movement, stress management, sleep, and environmental exposures have far more impact on your health than your genetic blueprint alone.

A Balanced Perspective: The Bigger Picture

While understanding your MTHFR status can provide valuable insights into your body's unique needs, it's essential to maintain perspective. Your health is influenced by an intricate web of factors:

• Hormonal balance – Thyroid, adrenals, and sex hormones all play crucial roles

• Gut health – Your microbiome affects everything from mood to immunity

• Nutrient status – Deficiencies in B12, vitamin D, magnesium, and other nutrients can create widespread symptoms

• Chronic infections – Hidden infections can drain energy and create inflammation

• Environmental toxins – Mold, heavy metals, and chemicals can overwhelm your system

• Psychological factors – Trauma, chronic stress, and mental health all impact physical well-being

The most effective approach to optimal health considers all these factors, using MTHFR information as one valuable piece of data rather than the complete answer.

Who Should Consider MTHFR Testing?

While MTHFR testing can benefit anyone seeking to optimize their health, certain groups may find this information particularly valuable:

For Prevention and General Wellness - Ideally, MTHFR testing provides valuable baseline knowledge that everyone should have about their genetic makeup. Since DNA testing is a one-and-done test that never needs to be repeated (for now), it's a worthwhile investment in your long-term health strategy. Understanding your MTHFR status allows you to make informed decisions about nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle choices from the start, rather than waiting for symptoms to develop. This proactive approach to wellness can help prevent potential health issues down the road.

Before Pregnancy Planning - MTHFR testing should be considered standard screening for anyone planning to conceive. Since MTHFR variants can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, miscarriages, and birth defects, knowing your status allows for proactive prevention strategies. Women with MTHFR variants may need higher doses of methylated folate rather than standard folic acid, and early intervention can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes.

Mental Health Treatment - Psychiatrists and mental health practitioners are increasingly recognizing MTHFR testing as a valuable diagnostic tool. Since methylation directly affects neurotransmitter production and mood regulation, MTHFR variants can influence how patients respond

to antidepressants and other psychiatric medications. This information can help clinicians tailor treatment approaches, potentially explaining why some patients don't respond to standard therapies and guiding more personalized mental health care.

Children with Behavioral Challenges - MTHFR testing can be particularly valuable for children experiencing behavioral challenges, attention difficulties, mood disorders, or developmental concerns. Since methylation affects neurotransmitter function and brain development, MTHFR variants may contribute to conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, or behavioral issues.

Understanding a child's MTHFR status can help parents and healthcare providers develop more targeted nutritional and therapeutic approaches.

Unexplained Health Issues - If you've been struggling with chronic fatigue, mood disorders, or other persistent symptoms that haven't responded to conventional treatment, MTHFR testing might provide insights into underlying genetic factors affecting your health.

Your Next Steps: From Knowledge to Transformation

Ready to explore whether MTHFR variants might be one factor influencing your wellness journey? Here's your action plan:

Start with awareness – Pay attention to how you feel after eating processed foods versus whole foods, or how stress affects your energy and mood.

Consider comprehensive testing – Look beyond just MTHFR to include hormone panels, nutrient status, and other relevant markers.

Find knowledgeable practitioners – Work with healthcare providers who understand functional medicine and take a whole-person approach. For pregnancy planning, discuss MTHFR testing with your OBGYN or fertility specialist. For mental health concerns, seek practitioners familiar with genetic factors in psychiatric treatment.

Experiment mindfully – Try incorporating more natural folate foods while reducing processed options, and notice how your body responds.

Think holistically – Address sleep, stress, movement, and other lifestyle factors alongside any genetic considerations.

The Bottom Line: One Important Piece of Your Health Puzzle

Understanding your MTHFR status isn't about finding the magic bullet for perfect health. It's about gathering valuable information that can inform your personalized wellness strategy. When combined with attention to hormones, gut health, nutrient status, and lifestyle factors, MTHFR awareness can be a powerful tool for optimization.

Your genetic blueprint is unique, and your path to vibrant health should be too. But remember: you are not defined by any single gene variant, and your potential for vitality extends far beyond your genetic inheritance.

The most empowering truth? Regardless of your MTHFR status, you have tremendous power to influence how you feel, how you age, and how vibrantly you live through your daily choices and comprehensive approach to wellness.

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>>> A Fall Survival Guide for Releasing What’s No Longer Serving You Let That Sh*t Go

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but there’s a distinct chill in the air and a color change in some of the foliage around town. The harvest season is upon us, a time that marks the natural end of many things. Farmers gather the last of their crops. Plants begin to wilt and retreat into dormancy. Animals migrate and begin hibernation. All around us, nature is letting go. Pulling back and conserving energy for the winter wind-down. Maybe we should, too.

For many, autumn might feel like the perfect time to stock up. And, in a way, gathering, preparing, and holding tight to what’s ours before winter settles in makes sense. But too often, we neglect the most important part of the season: the reckoning.

I know what you’re thinking. That sounds kind of threatening. We only really hear the word “reckoning” used by random horror movie harbingers alluding to something vengeful or foreboding. But in actuality, reckoning is the act of calculating or estimating, and the fall season is a time for just that- pausing and taking inventory. Not just of what we’ve gathered, but of what we’re still carrying that no longer serves us. It's time to ask ourselves, what’s actually nourishing and what’s just taking up space?

Harvest Time is Discernment Season

Consuming is easy. We do it all year long, and for many of us, fall is no exception. But harvesting doesn’t mean hoarding. It means carefully choosing what’s worth storing and letting the rest return to the earth. This concept applies to both recent additions and items that we’ve been holding onto for some time.

How do we begin? By asking ourselves one question: What am I carrying that no longer serves me?

And I’m not just talking about physical stuff. This season is an invitation to consider the value of your relationships, roles, habits, beliefs, efforts, expectations, behaviors, ideas, and self-identities. What feels expired? What no longer fits who you’re becoming? Some answers may pop into your mind immediately. That’s a pretty good indicator that it’s time to phase them out. Others might require more reflection, so be sure to take the time to really consider everything.

The Emotional Resistance to Letting Go

Of course, letting go is not always easy. There are several reasons why this process may be challenging: attachment to certain people, things, or dynamics, a sense of comfort in what’s familiar, or a fear of loss or the unknown. People-pleasing tendencies and an aversion to rocking the boat, even when it might be in our own best interest. A scarcity mindset that convinces us to hang onto things “just in case we need them”. And if this year has already been heavy for you, the idea of releasing anything else might feel like too much to bear, and that’s understandable. But just because something is difficult doesn’t mean it’s wrong. And just because we might be scared to let go doesn’t mean we’re meant to keep holding on.

We often talk about “letting go” like it’s surrender. But the truth is, it takes far more strength to release what no longer fits than it does to cling to something that’s quietly draining you. This isn’t failure. It isn’t weakness. It’s a conscious act of alignment and a way to make room for more of what actually serves you, be it better opportunities, beautiful relationships, healthier habits, a clearer mindset, great memories you wouldn’t make otherwise, or hell, just a sense of much-needed peace.

Yes, change is uncomfortable. The unknown is scary. But what’s even more frightening is losing years of your life to patterns that are unhealthy, downright toxic, or just a time-suck. Even trees know when to shed their leaves. There’s wisdom in the release. Let that be your permission.

Mini Release Rituals

Here are some small but intentional rituals to help you organize what stays and what goes.

• Start Small and Simple: Clean out one drawer in your house. The act of sorting physical clutter will get those discernment muscles flexing.

• Take Inventory: Carve out some time to sit down with a journal or notepad. Create two columns. One is titled “What’s Nourishing Me”, and the other is titled “What’s Draining Me”. Write down what fits in each category, and make it a point to be honest with yourself. This is a truthful inventory, one that may help you choose what to keep and what to release.

• Make a Maybe Box: Struggling to decide whether to let something go? Put it (or a note about it) in a Maybe Box and set an alarm on your phone for a month from now. If you didn’t reach for or utilize it by the time that alarm goes off, it’s probably ready to be released. This works for both thoughts and things.

• Meet With Your Future Yourself: Stand in front of a mirror and ask your future self (who lives in this time next year): What did I let go of that changed everything for the better? Take a moment to listen. Write down what pops up.

• The Sunday Night Shed: Every Sunday for the next four weeks, write down one thing you’re consciously letting go of and one thing you’re definitely keeping.

• Candle Burn Release: If you’ve decided on a particularly significant release, write it down on a piece of paper, light a candle, bid farewell to it, and then (safely) burn it. Allow the smoke to carry it away from you, and envision making space in your life for better things.

• Honor What Stays: Light a candle in honor of something you’re keeping, be it a boundary, a source of strength, or just peace. Sit with the flame and say: You’re staying. Thank you for what you bring to my life. I can’t wait to grow with you. Let it feel sacred, even if it’s simple.

Trusting the Die-Off

Nature doesn’t panic when the leaves fall, and neither should you. Endings are natural, and letting go is part of the cycle. Let this be the season you stop tending to what has already wilted.

Not everything you release has to be bad to be done. Some things fade out gently. Others require intention. But either way, you get to choose what stays. And once you do, remember that there’s no rush in replacing what falls away. Trust the pause. Making space is an invitation for better things to come your way.

Andrea is a Vegas-based writer, creative professional, and founder of Ruby Cat Creative, a boutique agency specializing in editorial content, digital storytelling, and general ghostwriting. Her work explores themes like emotional wellness, neurodivergence, self-reclamation, and modern burnout. When she's not writing, she can be found reading, thrifting, buying more plants than she has room for, or upcycling forgotten items into something worth keeping. Got a project, question, comment, or good antique store recommendation? Drop her a message at andrea@rubycatcreative.com

THE BEST SLEEP OF MY LIFE AT 1.2 HZ

Daily Living with the ALIGN Mat

There’s a rule at a good house party: you do not tuck yourself into a corner and talk about frequency medicine while the DJ is spinning something that makes the drywall breathe. Obviously, your Auntie Jaden broke that rule.

It was Zion. Scorching hot desert air with friends, new and old. That’s where I got to spend time with Mike and Alyssa, the hearts behind the ALIGN Mat. We should’ve been on the dance floor at the house party, but instead we found a quiet pocket and started geeking out about PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic fields) the way other people talk about their favorite taco spot. I know, I know. But when you meet your people, the conversation finds its own frequency.

Your Cells Are Tiny Batteries

Here’s how I explain it when your favorite Aunt is not in a lab coat: your body is made of tiny batteries. Roughly 37 trillion of them! Life drains the charge—stress, screens, bad sleep, too much of everything. PEMF is like the earth’s exhale, a gentle rhythm that reminds your cells how to hum again. Think: the planet’s heartbeat whispering, “Baby, breathe.”

ALIGN feels like a well-tuned instrument. You lie down, pick a setting, and your nervous system gets the memo: we’re safe, we’re home, we can rest.

They also tucked black tourmaline—an ancient, grounding stone—into the mat. Thirty pounds of the very best certified quality. You feel that weight, the way you feel a hug you didn’t know you needed, like a reverse weighted blanket. Heaviness, in the best way.

The Headache That Quietly Left the Room

Cut to the last morning of our trip: three days of pool, fireworks, 100-degree heat, and exactly zero electrolytes. I woke up with a screaming headache—the kind that makes sunshine too loud and coffee feel like a dare.

Mike and Alyssa rolled out their ALIGN mat and said, “Try this.” I plopped down, hit Recovery on the mat, and settled in, chatting with my friend Krys to pass the time. About twenty minutes later, the pain was… just gone. No fanfare. No “ta-da.” Like someone found a secret dimmer switch at the back of my neck and slid it all the way down.

Then I switched the mat to Rebalance. The best way I can describe it: a champagne-bubble hum under the skin—grounded and expansive at the same time. My mind cleared, my body felt solid again, and the static—worry, hurry, headache—shook loose like dust in a sunbeam.

Vibrate

Stress Off

I’ve tried plenty of mats and gadgets over the years. ALIGN felt human. Not “gadget-y,” not a spreadsheet of specs trying to impress me. It’s home ritual equipment that you use every single day.

The programs feel like moods you can choose on purpose—Sleep, Recovery, Rebalance, Focus. Ask yourself, “What do you want your body to remember right now?”

The warmth is quiet and cozy, not buzzy. Like a heated stone massage had a baby with a weighted blanket.

And yes, the right tourmaline matters. That mineral weight is a signal to your body: drop your shoulders, unclench your jaw, come back to earth.

If you want the short version: it’s exhale on command. And it works in my actual, messy, busy life between deadlines and dinner, dancing and dishwashing.

The Night They Delivered My Mat

A few weeks later, Mike and Alyssa came over for dinner with my brand-new ALIGN. It’s not a small purchase—I paid $2,500—and I had been talking my husband’s ear off about it like a woman possessed. But some things aren’t “nice to have.” Some things are the thing that helps everything else work.

We stood in the kitchen, swapping stories over sparkling water. Here’s what I love about Alyssa: she is gentle truth with receipts. She opened my garage fridge (a temple of wall-to-wall bubble water like a wellstocked Hollywood bodega) and smiled. “Not all bubbles are the same,” she said kindly. Then she explained how water is like a sponge for its environment. On its way to your lips, it soaks up light, heat, plastics, and even the mood of its container.

She reminded me of that famous Japanese experiment where water crystals shifted shape depending on the words, music, or intention they were exposed to. Whether or not you believe in the woo, the message is simple: water remembers.

When we drink it, we don’t just get hydration—we’re also sipping the story of where it’s been, and all of the toxins, chemicals, plastics, and energy that it’s picked up. That clicked for me immediately.

“Okay,” I told her, “I’m waiting for your Liquid LOVE water to drop.” We laughed, but I meant it. If anyone could make water taste like Earth’s most clean and nourishing hug, it’s her.

Health Is the Highest ROI

I’m 53. My knees and back occasionally write me long letters. Menopause— bless her chaotic heart—doesn’t always call before she visits. The Align mat was expensive, but I invested in my sleep, my recovery, and my sanity.

Here’s the brag: twenty minutes on the “Sleep” setting before bed and I slide into dreamland like it’s a moving walkway. My mind quiets. My limbs get heavy. I wake up actually rested—not fake rested, not caffeinated rested, but plugged-back-in rested. Morning energy that doesn’t yank me around. Just steady, bright, and mine.

On pain days, I hit Recovery. On big days, I tap Focus and write like I left the window open in my brain and a breeze wandered in. On loud days, I choose Rebalance and let the world turn the volume down while I turn myself back on.

Calming Little Brains

One of the things I keep hearing from parents is how children—especially highly sensitive ones or kids who get overstimulated easily—seem to unwind on the ALIGN Mat in ways nothing else quite reaches. Whether it’s after school chaos, screen overload, or sensory storms, lying on the mat seems to give their nervous systems a pause button. Imagine a kid whose legs are bouncing, heart racing from too many lights and sounds, suddenly softening into stillness. ALIGN’s extreme-low frequency modes (like Rebalance or Sleep) feel like safe signals to an overstimulated brain: “You’re okay and safe. You can settle.”

Because the mat is gentle—no jarring intensity, no buzzing—that softness helps children feel the support instead of dialing up fight or flight. Parents tell me that over time, after just short sessions, bedtime battles soften, meltdowns shrink, and their kids seem more anchored—less reactive to the world’s overload.

*Safety note: Always check that any PEMF use with children is appropriate—non-implantable devices, doctor’s OK, short durations, gentle settings. I believe ALIGN’s build lends itself to this kind of care.

Lovers on a Mission

Let me gush on these two new friends for a second.

Mike carries quiet power. He doesn’t push it, he doesn’t wear it—it’s just there, like gravity. When he’s in the room, you feel steadier, like your system finally gets permission to unclench.

Alyssa is my geeky lab sister—the engineer-healer hybrid who can read a controller and a circadian rhythm with the same devotion. She’ll rearrange your bubble-water shelf with kindness. She’s the friend who reminds you to bless your inputs because they become your outputs.

Together, they’re lovers on a mission. You can feel it in the product. Clean design. Thoughtful presets. A vibe that says, “We made this because we needed it, too.” When a tool is made by people who actually use it, your body knows.

The Best Part of My Day (Twice)

These days, the ALIGN mat bookends my life.

Morning ritual: I pour coffee, settle onto the mat for ten to twenty minutes, and knit a few rows. (Yes, knitting. It’s my moving meditation.) I roll off the mat feeling naturally awake—my joints cooperative, mind bright, mood sunny.

Night ritual: I watch my dogs play while the mat does its thing, then switch to Sleep. Heat medium-low. By the time I climb into bed, I’m toasty warm, enjoying the tingly buzz just beneath the skin, and already halfway to dreaming. On nights I skip it, I notice: more tossing, more brain chatter, less glory in my morning step.

Real Talk on the Price

Is it an investment? Oh, 100%. But let’s be honest: I’ve already spent a small fortune trying to hack my sleep. Watches that tell me I’m tired (thank you, I couldn’t tell), apps, white-noise machines, supplements, wine disguised as “nightcap therapy,” prescription meds, and yes—even that bougie machine that pumps chilled water through my mattress pad like my bed’s on life support.

The ALIGN Mat is different. The payoff shows up every single morning when I don’t have to bargain with myself just to be human. It shows up when my knees stop complaining. It shows up when I move through the day, less brittle, more bouncy. That’s ROI I can literally feel in my bones.

Control Your Own Emotions

Will a PEMF mat cure everything? No. And ALIGN doesn’t promise that. What it does for me is simple and profound: it changes my state on purpose. From wired to grounded. From achy to available. From busy-brain to bed-brain.

It’s now the first thing I sit on when I wake and the last thing I lie on before I sleep. Morning gives me clean energy. Night melts the day right out of my shoulders. Somewhere between those two sacred bookends is the life I’m trying to live: steady, present, playful, and well.

If you’re PEMF-curious, ALIGN is a beautiful entry point—earth’s heartbeat, modern body. Made by two people I trust, infused with a mission I believe in, and designed for real humans with full lives.

You can find Mike and Alyssa on Instagram at @myalignmat.

Jaden Rae is a Las Vegas resident, best-selling author of the Microdosing Guide And Journal, and founder of American Farmacy, a modern apothecary that empowers people to take control of their own health using Earth’s original medicines. She is also a two-time best-selling cookbook author, television chef and has been featured on the Today Show, The Early Show, Martha Stewart Radio, Fox Business News and more. You can find her on Instagram at @steamykitchen and @amfarmacy.

>>> BODY20 WELCOMES LOCAL GROUPS FOR ON-SITE

DEMO VISITS AND CORPORATE EVENTS

ON SITE DEMO VISITS

BODY20 recently launched on-site demo visits and encourage local groups and organizations to schedule a time to check out the facility. Groups with a minimum of 8 attendees tour the studio, participate in demos, and receive brief instructional training on electrical muscle stimulation (EMS.) There is no cost to schedule a group visit and membership specials will be available at the time of visit for those interested. BODY20 also offers accommodations for VIP events - please call the facility for details.

CORPORATE EVENTS

BODY20 brings wellness to the workplace. The team at BODY20 has the ability to bring the EMS experience to your employees. From small business “Lunch & Learns” to large corporate presentations - BODY20 trainers will arrive with equipment and offer arm demos along with an educational presentation and employee discounts.

ABOUT BODY20

BODY20 is not your typical gym. Workouts are fast-paced and last just 20 minutes. Each session, a personal trainer guides the member through a personalized, one-on-one program focused on either strength, cardio, or a mix of both. Prior to beginning the session, the member is outfitted with a lightweight, adjustable, electrode-enabled suit which provides their body with over 150 times more muscle contractions than a typical workout. Workouts are guided and may include the use of light hand weights, bands, and weighted balls. Each workout burns calories, reduces cellulite, tones the body, increases blood circulation and builds lean muscle. By following the guidance of professional trainers at every stage, members typically see improvements in posture, core strength, and even back discomfort while addressing muscle imbalances.

BODY20 MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES

Refer 4 Pay No More: An active member who refers four friends that become active members at BODY20, will receive their membership for no cost (lowest cost of membership apply and referrals must be active members).

Free Restore Session: Active members that bring a friend to do an in studio demo, will receive a Restore Session for no cost.

InBody Challenge: The next InBody Challenge starts September 15th and runs for six weeks.

Dietician Live: Members receive their first session free. Work oneon-one with a remote dietician for advice on nutrition, sleep, stress management, relationships and more.

BODY20 BENEFITS

Maximum Results in Minimal

Time: Each 20-minute BODY20 session equals hours in the

conventional gym.

Minimize Strain on Musculoskeletal System: The lack of heavy weights in training sessions enables a high-intensity workout that is lowimpact on joints, bones, nerves, and muscles.

Fat Reduction: Like with most strength training, BODY20’s strength training sessions prompt a higher level of metabolic activity both during and after workouts, causing the body to burn more fat longer.

Build Muscle (Hypertrophy): The extra stimulation given to muscles during each session leads to a quicker increase in muscle mass. Studies have also shown that EMS is effective at speeding muscle rebuilding postsurgery.

Improve Strength and Endurance: A typical gym workout recruits anywhere from 30-70% of a person’s strength potential depending on fitness level. By improving how muscles work together and increasing muscle contraction intensity, Body20 sessions recruit up to 90%.

Relax Muscle Tension: Sessions promote the circulation of blood throughout the muscles, which can significantly help to release muscular tension and knots.

Correct Muscular Imbalances: BODY20 sessions can be customized to target selective muscle groups or sides of the body, which can play a vital role in correcting imbalances.

Optimize Posture: Sessions are particularly effective at improving core strength, fostering good posture and preventing injuries.

Enhance Sports Performance: Through maximizing the capacity and strength of muscles, and correcting posture and other imbalances, BODY20 is a proven performance enhancer and the ultimate body hack.

Complete Customization: Your BODY20 plan, sessions, and settings will be customized and personalized for your body and wellness goals.

BODY20 is located at 4280 S Hualapai Wy, Las Vegas, NV 89147. To sign up for a free trial class, call (725) 218-3270. For more information, visit them online at body20.com.

Facebook: body20summerlinsouth

Instagram: @body20summerlinsouth

$399 ACCELERATOR SPECIAL

12 sessions per month

3 sessions per week

(with a 6-month commitment)

>>> FALLING BACK INTO HEALTH

VEGAS CHIROPRACTOR OFFERS HACKS FOR AUTUMN

Fall in Vegas hits like a jackpot: sudden, unpredictable, and gone before you know it. One minute you're sweating buckets on the Strip, next thing, you're shivering through a Golden Knights game wondering why your back feels like it just arm-wrestled a slot machine. Blame the wind gusts off the desert, those endless hikes at Red Rock, or yeah, that one too-many pumpkin spice lattes weighing you down. Either way, if you're creaking like an old casino door, it's time for chiropractic care.

Dr. Michelle Binkowski at Back in Action Chiropractic has spent over twenty years fixing spines, blending laser therapy, offering adjustments, and providing massage at her Fort Apache spot. She's like your body's personal bouncer, kicking out pain before it ruins the party.

Look, chiropractic isn't some woo-woo myth, it's spine science. Your nervous system's the boss, dictating everything from your hike stamina to the reasons you can't sleep after bingeing Netflix. Have a misalignment in that vertebrae? Suffering from headaches, stiffness, or a nagging why does my neck hate me feeling? Dr. Binkowski gets it; her holistic vibe treats the whole you, not just symptoms.

At Back in Action Chiropractic, they use fancy tech like cold laser to zap inflammation, think microwave for aches, but without the popcorn smell. She customizes plans: pain relief for desk jockeys glued to craps tables, performance tweaks for gym rats, or wellness boosts to survive holiday feasting without turning into a human burrito. Ever tried yoga in Vegas heat, only to face-plant because your lower back's throwing a tantrum?

Tip 1: Stretch Daily

Start with knee-to-chest pulls while lounging by the pool; loosens hips faster than a blackjack dealer shuffles cards.

Tip 2: Posture Like a Pro

Slouching through fall festivals? Stand tall and imagine Dr. Binkowski's eagle eye spotting you clear across the Fremont Street Experience. Core work is gold; try bird-dogs on a mat to stabilize everything. Hydrate too-desert air's a sneaky dehydrator, turning muscles into jerky.

Back in Action Chiropractic also throws in nutrition advice, 'because nothing screams wellness like ditching candy corn for kale smoothies without rioting. For active types, fall means pickleball tournaments and canyon scrambles - fun until a tweak sidelined you. Dr. Binkowski's team handles whiplash from I-15 pileups and/or sports strains. They're faith-driven, treating you like family, not a revenue stream. The bottom line, don't let fall knock you flat. Dr. Binkowski and Back in Action Chiropractic keep you moving, laughing, and Vegas-vibrant. What's your go-to autumn activity that'll test your physical endurance and flexibility this year?

When you get knocked down and you want to get up again, call Back In Action Chiropractic. They accept Culinary insurance and speak Spanish too!

Back in Action is located at 5552 S Fort Apache Rd, Ste 110, Las Vegas, NV 89148. Call 702-970-4325 to book an appointment. Learn more at BIACLV.com and follow on Instagram @BackInActionChiroLV and on Facebook @Michelle Binkowski, DC.

The Bone Health Link in Breast Cancer Awareness STRENGTHENING MORE THAN SPIRITS

As the neon lights of Las Vegas flicker to life each evening, October brings a softer glow to the Strip: a sea of pink ribbons, survivors' stories, and community events united in the fight against breast cancer. This month, designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month since 1985, isn't just about early detection and support, it's a powerful reminder of the ripple effects of this disease on the entire body. In the City of Lights, where wellness is as much a lifestyle as a luxury, we're shining a spotlight on an often-overlooked connection: how breast cancer awareness illuminates the critical importance of bone health. And at the heart of this intersection lies OsteoStrong, a revolutionary approach to skeletal strengthening that's as efficient as it is effective,perfect for survivors, thrivers, and anyone committed to long-term vitality.

The Hidden Toll: Breast Cancer's Impact on Your Bones

Breast cancer affects one in eight women worldwide, with over 2.3 million new cases annually, and in the U.S. alone, about 168,000 live with metastatic disease. But beyond the emotional and physical battles of diagnosis and treatment lies a stealthy side effect: accelerated bone loss. Treatments like aromatase inhibitors (AIs), which block estrogen production to halt cancer growth, can slash bone mineral density (BMD) by up to 5-10% in the first year alone. Chemotherapy-induced ovarian failure (CIOF) and ovarian suppression mimic early menopause, plummeting estrogen levels and increasing osteoporosis risk by 68% among survivors compared to cancer-free women. Even tamoxifen, a staple hormone therapy, carries fracture risks for some.

The stakes are high. Osteoporosis, the "silent thief" that weakens bones until a fracture strikes, leads to debilitating breaks, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life. Breast cancer often metastasizes to the bones first, in over 50% of advanced cases, complicating recovery further. Yet, here's the silver lining: Awareness Month spotlights these risks, empowering women to act. By raising the alarm on treatment-induced bone loss, it bridges to proactive strategies for skeletal strength strategies that can prevent fractures, boost mobility, and enhance overall resilience. In essence, focusing on breast health naturally draws attention to bone health, turning survival into thriving.

Enter OsteoStrong: Biohacking Bones in Just 15 Minutes a Week

What if you could fortify your skeleton without hours at the gym, heavy weights, or endless supplements?

That's the promise of OsteoStrong, a global network of skeletal health centers now thriving in wellness hubs like Las Vegas. Unlike traditional exercise, OsteoStrong harnesses "osteogenic loading", brief, high-intensity pressure on bones to trigger natural growth, much like how astronauts combat muscle atrophy in zero gravity. Sessions involve four specialized devices that target the spine, hips, and wrists: You stand or sit in optimal positions, exert force for seconds at a time (think pushing against a platform as hard as comfortably possible), and voila, your bones respond by rebuilding denser tissue.

The science is compelling. A 2023 study in the Journal of Clinical Densitometry found women with osteoporosis who did weekly 10-15 minute OsteoStrong sessions saw statistically significant BMD improvements in the lumbar spine after 12 months.

Users report not just stronger bones but better balance, reduced joint pain, and enhanced posture which is key for post-treatment recovery. At 15 minutes once a week, it's ideal for busy Vegas lifestyles, with no sweat, or soreness. Local centers, like the one in South West Las Vegas, tailor programs for all ages, from athletes to seniors, and even offer complimentary consultations.

Why OsteoStrong Shines for Breast Cancer Warriors

For breast cancer survivors, OsteoStrong isn't just a workout, it's a wellness weapon. The bone-muscle crosstalk disrupted by cancer therapies? OsteoStrong's mechanical signals help restore it, promoting mesenchymal stem cells to favor bone over fat and reducing inflammation in the bone microenvironment. Preclinical research suggests this could even lower metastasis risks by stabilizing the skeletal landscape. Plus, it complements lifestyle pillars: Pair it with weight-bearing walks (hello, Strip strolls!), calcium-rich diets (think leafy greens and almonds), and vitamin D from our sunny Nevada skies.

Imagine a survivor fresh from the Making Strides walk, slipping into an OsteoStrong session to build the foundation for pain-free adventures, hiking Red Rock or dancing at a pink-themed gala. It's empowerment in action, aligning perfectly with Awareness Month's call to holistic care.

Your October Call to Strength

This October, as Vegas paints the town pink, let it inspire you to think deeper: Awareness of breast cancer is awareness of the body's full story, including the bones that carry us forward. Whether you're a survivor safeguarding your gains, a caregiver supporting a loved one, or simply someone investing in longevity, OsteoStrong offers a simple, sciencebacked path to skeletal superpowers. Visit the local center for your free session, lace up for a run, or light a pink candle in solidarity. Because in the fight for health, every step and every push counts.

For more on OsteoStrong in the Vegas Valley, scan the QR code or visit osteostronglv.com Stay tuned to Vegas Wellness for our full event calendar.

CELEBRATING

BOYHOOD,

SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNITY

ParkerJoe Debuts at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

ParkerJoe, an upscale boys’ boutique, has arrived at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, filling a long-overlooked gap in children’s fashion. While racks for girls often overflow with options, boys have historically had limited choices. Founded by a mother-daughter team, ParkerJoe was created to change that narrative, giving boys their own dedicated space in fashion, with a focus on sustainability, comfort and style. Already a favorite in Houston, Texas, the boutique now brings its thoughtfully curated concept to Las Vegas.

One of only three clothing stores in the world devoted solely to boys, ParkerJoe is a distinctive addition to the global retail landscape. Its collections range from newborn to size 16 and are crafted with organic bamboo, Pima cotton, and other sustainable materials selected for softness, durability and environmental responsibility. Premium labels such as Nola Tawk, Lev Baby, and Saltwater Boys Co. are among the standout offerings, selected for their elevated quality and classic-meets-cool aesthetic. Beyond apparel, the boutique also features accessories, toys, and books, creating a space that celebrates boyhood in all its forms.

The Las Vegas opening was marked by a two-day celebration that combined fashion with community impact. In partnership with Peggy’s Attic, the donation center of Clark County Family Services, ParkerJoe hosted a clothing drive benefiting local children in foster care.

More than a store, ParkerJoe reflects a commitment to wellness, confidence and family values. Its playful, welcoming environment is designed to make boys feel comfortable and parents feel inspired, while the carefully curated collections emphasize quality, practicality and individuality. From tiny newborn onesies to bold, adventurous styles for tweens, ParkerJoe is a love letter to boyhood and a stylish new addition to Las Vegas’ luxury retail scene.

Visit ParkerJoe on the third level of The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, or explore the collection online at parkerjoe.com.

OXYGEN IS LIFE Healing Under Pressure

Performance Is Everything

For nearly two decades, my life revolved around two worlds: luxury cars and motherhood. Working with Aston Martin taught me that performance isn’t just about speed, it’s about balance, beauty, precision, and the right fuel. Just like a high-performance vehicle, the human body only thrives when all systems work in harmony.

Today, that same lesson guides my work at Desert Moon Wellness. Only now, the “performance vehicles” I work with aren’t cars, they’re people. And instead of horsepower, we measure human potential.

The fuel that matters most? Oxygen.

Healing Under Pressure

HBOT works by delivering oxygen under gentle pressure, allowing it to dissolve directly into the plasma. This means oxygen can reach tissues, joints, and even the brain in ways normal breathing cannot.

At Desert Moon Wellness, we see HBOT help to:

• Fuel mitochondria (the “engines” of your cells)

• Reduce inflammation and swelling

• Accelerate healing and recovery

• Support brain healing and mental clarity

• Balance mood and regulate the nervous system

• Strengthen the immune system and longevity pathways

Our Process: How to Begin Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy with Us

We ensure every client is safe and supported before beginning therapy.

Step 1 – Intake

We start by emailing intake forms and consents through our system. Once those are complete, you’ll also receive a welcome email from Katana explaining the process in detail, with another link (Desertmoon_O2) to complete.

Step 2 – Consultation Options

• Option A: If you already have a current prescription and protocol from an M.D., D.O., or APRN (for 1.3–2.8 ATA), or from an N.D. (for 1.3–2.0 ATA general wellness clearance), we’ll schedule a mini consultation to focus on your hyperbaric plan and get you started.

• Option B: If you don’t have a prescription, you’ll begin with our in-house process. This includes completing our intake forms as well as a separate link to Desert_Moon.O2 Provider. Please take your time with these forms, accuracy matters. You will then be scheduled to review your assessment and complete an initial consultation. Based on the information, you may be scheduled with one of our nurses or moved directly to Dr. Sharma.

• Option C: Consultation with Dr. Sharma for a medical hyperbaric prescription and a full-spectrum protocol. This is the best option for anyone considered higher than low risk, or for anyone interested in precision medicine and longevity-focused care. He has limited availability for new members to Elite Med. Diving deeper into your health is wellness. The ultimate self-care upgrade: guided by our precision longevity expert.

Step 3 – Meet with Elite Med, Dr. Sharma

Option C can also serve as your first step if you choose. You may bypass Options A and B and begin directly with Dr. Sharma, or you may be referred here after completing the first two steps. Either way, this option ensures you have the highest level of medical oversight and personalization available.

Please allow 60 minutes for all consultation options. In most cases, clients are able to begin their first hyperbaric session immediately following their consultation. Please refrain from smoking 2 hours before treatment.

Why Our Process Matters

We require all clients, even those entering ambient air at 1.3 ATA to go through our complete intake and clearance process.

Even at the lowest ambient pressures, there can be risks. For safety, no electronics or battery-operated devices (including insulin pumps, glucose monitors, or wearables) are permitted in our chambers. If you have a medically implanted device, we will need a pressure certification. These are usually simple for us to call in directly with the manufacturer and device specifications. This ensures that every session is as safe as possible.

How Our Chambers Work

At Desert Moon Wellness, our hyperbaric chambers are pressurized with clean, fresh ambient air, not oxygen. Once the chamber reaches pressure, clients may choose to add supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula or mask, with most preferring the non-rebreather mask for comfort and ease.

This oxygen comes directly from our state-of-the-art ON2 Aura® Oxygen Plant, providing a reliable, medical-grade source. Supplemental oxygen is an added benefit that enhances the therapeutic effects of each session, while the chamber itself remains a safe, clean, and comfortable environment.

Our Gift to You

• A Neural Chek scan to assess your nervous system

• A 20-minute BrainTap session stacked with mild PEMF on the Align Mat

The Foundations Come First

At Desert Moon Wellness, we remind every client of one truth: more important than advanced tools is your foundation.

These five pillars are freely available to all of us and once they’re in place, advanced tools like hyperbaric oxygen therapy amplify the results exponentially:

Sleep – Aim for 7–9 hours in a dark, cool room. Rise with the sun, reduce blue light at night, and protect your circadian rhythm. We love turning to red light in the evenings to naturally signal to the body that it's time to rest.

Mindset – Prayer, meditation, gratitude, and breathwork regulate the nervous system and literally reshape the brain. A calm mind sets the stage for a healthy body.

Nutrition – Food is information. Choose whole, nutrient-rich foods. Prioritize protein and healthy fats, and hydrate with mineral-rich water to fuel your cells.

Movement – Walk daily, stretch, load your muscles, and don’t forget to dance. Movement oxygenates tissues, strengthens resilience, and even supports healthy protein folding within the cell.

Nature – Ground barefoot on the earth, soak up morning and evening sun, and breathe deeply in fresh air. Nature itself provides PEMF and light therapy, the original healing frequencies.

These practices cost nothing, yet they change everything. At Desert Moon Wellness, this is where we start: building on the foundation to unlock your body’s full potential.

Biostacking for Exponential Healing

HBOT is our foundation, but at Desert Moon Wellness we’ve built an entire ecosystem around it. We call this biostacking, or layering therapies that amplify one another for exponential results:

• BrainTap: resets the nervous system and primes the brain.

• ARRC Light Bed: delivers photobiomodulation for cellular repair.

• Pulse PEMF: charges cells with magnetic energy.

• NanoVi: counters oxidative stress and supports protein repair.

• Omniwave: precision acoustic wave therapy that delivers targeted relief and healing.

• Compression & Circulation Tools: prepare the body for deeper recovery.

• Hydration Support: hydrogen water and electrolytes replenish minerals and fuel cells.

When therapies are combined, the body responds more efficiently. It’s not about doing more — it’s about doing smarter.

From Guessing to Precision: Enter PNOE

This month we are launching a new dimension of precision: PNOE Breath Analysis

PNOE measures how your lungs, heart, and cells use oxygen, tracking VO₂ Max and 23 other biomarkers tied to metabolism, fitness, and cellular efficiency. And with our Desert Moon–branded app, every client will have access to personalized, around-the-clock support:

• Nutritional Guidance tailored to your metabolic needs

• Customized Bio-Stack Recommendations connected to modalities

• 24/7 Progress Tracking so you can see how you are moving the needle

This means you're supported inside, outside, and all around the clock.

Consistency Is the Real Power

One chamber dive is powerful. But true transformation comes with consistency. Following a personalized protocol gives clients the ability to see progress, make adjustments, and stay accountable in their wellness journey. Inside Desert Moon Wellness, clients dive, stack, and recover with advanced therapies. Outside the center, the app provides guidance for daily choices such as food, movement, and mindset so momentum keeps building. And, all around the clock clients have tools in their pocket to stay supported and consistent. This is wellness, optimized.

Our Commitment to Safety & Growth

This year has been one of recalibration. Today, our medical team is deeper and more robust than ever. We’ve refined our protocols, strengthened physician partnerships, and recommitted to putting safety first for our community.

By the time you read this, our team will have just returned from the International Hyperbaric Association Conference. We attend every year to learn from the best, expand our certifications, and bring cutting-edge knowledge back to Las Vegas.

Our commitment is simple: we never stop growing, because your journey deserves nothing less.

Take a Moment, Change Your Life

October is my birthday month, and every year it reminds me that the greatest gifts are often the smallest moments: a walk at sunset, a deep inhale of fresh air, a laugh with loved ones.

Life is meant to be enjoyed. Oxygen is life’s greatest luxury. One more breath, one more chance to heal, one more opportunity to thrive.

Here in Las Vegas, October also carries the weight of remembrance. October 1 marks the anniversary of the largest mass shooting in North America, a day our city will never forget. Eight years later, our world has shifted, and with it, so many lives have changed. There has been loss, yes, but also resilience and growth. Little did we know then how much more change was ahead, and how vital tools for healing and resilience would become. Today, sharing these resources is not only our mission, it is our responsibility to the community we love.

At Desert Moon Wellness, we offer a place for anyone and everyone to reset, repair, and rediscover what’s possible when your mind and body have the support they deserve. Call 702-901-9812 to schedule your consultation today. Want to know what a session is really like? Follow us on YouTube and social media for behind-the-scenes videos, tips, and real client experiences inside our chambers. Hope to see you soon!

Photos: Robert Grubbs (cars), Tracy Lee (hyperbaric oxygen chambers)

>>> Biohacking with JohnXD

VISITING KAQUN

Welcome back, Biohackers! We've reached the fall of 2025, and what an incredible year it’s been. I’m thrilled to continue sharing my biohacking journey and the innovative modalities I’ve explored here in Las Vegas. Thanks to our Biohacking Las Vegas meetups, I’ve discovered even more cutting-edge biohacks, and I’m excited to dive into one today: Kaqun (pronounced “cocoon”).

You might recall the 1980s movie *Cocoon*, where a group of seniors discovered a pool that acted like a fountain of youth, leaving them vibrant and rejuvenated. Thanks to scientific advancements and the pioneering work of Dr. Robert Lyons, we now have Kaqun—a modern take on that concept. Dr. Lyons began researching Kaqun in 2004, with his efforts intensifying in 2009 after his daughter, Anikó, was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer. Her remarkable response to Kaqun therapy fueled further validation of its potential. Anikó, now a dear friend, shared her inspiring story at our August Biohacking meetup, and you can watch it on YouTube. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

What is Kaqun?

Kaqun is a brand of oxygenated water and wellness products that use proprietary technology to stabilize high levels of bound oxygen in purified spring water. This allows for enhanced oxygen absorption by the body, addressing hypoxia (oxygen deficiency in tissues). Unlike typical oxygenated waters that quickly lose their oxygen content, Kaqun maintains elevated oxygen levels (16-18.5 mg/L dissolved oxygen and 400-550 mmHg partial pressure) even at higher temperatures, without external oxygen or chemical additives. With a neutral pH of 7.1-7.4 and low mineral content (180-220 mg/L), it’s ideal for daily consumption.

How to Experience Kaqun

Kaqun offers two primary ways to benefit: drinking the water or bathing in it. Here in Las Vegas, we’re fortunate to have a stunning Kaqun location on South Rainbow Boulevard, just south of Windmill. The moment you step inside, the desert fades away, replaced by a serene, spa-like atmosphere that feels warm

and inviting. The staff is exceptional—welcoming and treating every visitor like family. I had corresponded with Anikó via email, but meeting her in person was a highlight. Her vibrant spirit and passion for helping others align perfectly with my mission to share transformative biohacks. Hearing her story firsthand inspired me to spread the word about Kaqun.

For my first Kaqun bath, I opted for a tub with red light therapy, combining the benefits of oxygen and photobiomodulation. The experience was seamless: the tub was pre-filled with warm Kaqun water, jets gently flowing, and red lights glowing. You can connect to a TV for entertainment, but I chose soothing spa music from my phone. The process is simple—submerge your body for 50 minutes, occasionally dunking your head to maximize oxygen absorption through the skin. It’s an effortless biohack: relax in a tub and let oxygen flood your cells. After the session, the tub automatically drains, and I stepped out feeling energized, vibrant, and eager to return. The sensation was both relaxing and invigorating—a perfect blend for biohackers.

I also took home Kaqun water to drink, consuming 8-10 ounces daily for a few days. Unlike typical water that hydrates, Kaqun oxygenates, delivering a noticeable boost in energy. It’s a unique experience that complements the bath perfectly.

Why Kaqun Matters for Biohackers

Kaqun is a game-changer for biohackers and longevity enthusiasts. We know oxygen is critical for cellular health, which is why therapies like hyperbaric oxygen are so effective. Kaqun offers a simpler alternative—just soak in a tub or drink a few ounces daily to enhance oxygen delivery to your tissues. The benefits may include improved energy, immune support, and recovery, making it a versatile addition to any wellness routine.

If you haven’t experienced Kaqun yet, I highly recommend visiting Anikó and her team at their beautiful Las Vegas location. Treat yourself to something new and transformative. Whether you’re soaking in a Kaqun bath or sipping the water, this biohack is worth exploring for anyone seeking vitality and longevity.

PAUSE, RECHARGE, RENEW A New Destination for Stress Relief in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a city known for its vibrant energy that never stops. Between the bright lights of the Strip, demanding work schedules, and the constant pull of 24/7 entertainment, locals are always on the move. It’s no surprise Nevada was recently ranked the second most stressed state in the nation, according to WalletHub. This October, Pause Studio, a modern wellness destination with 25 locations across 11 states, is bringing its first Nevada location to Rampart Commons (10470 W. Charleston Blvd.), offering locals a much-needed solution to stress with science-backed therapies designed to restore balance and resilience.

Rising living costs, long hours and family responsibilities only add to the strain. The American Psychological Association reports that more than three in four adults experience health impacts from stress, including headaches, fatigue and sleep issues. Pause Studio’s mission is to counteract those effects by giving locals a space to recharge and care for both body and mind.

At its core, Pause Studio blends science-backed recovery tools with deeply restorative therapies. Guests can reduce tension, boost energy, improve sleep, and strengthen immunity, all within a thoughtfully curated modernized environment. By offering multiple modalities under one roof, Pause makes proactive, preventative care accessible, helping clients build resilience before stress and fatigue take their toll.

Services at the new Summerlin location include floatation therapy, infrared saunas, cryotherapy, LED light therapy, contrast therapy, guided breathwork, IV drips and naturopathic care. Each therapy is carefully curated to enhance relaxation, accelerate physical recovery and support mental clarity. For athletes, services like cryotherapy can speed muscle recovery. For busy professionals, float pods and infrared saunas offer relief from tension and fatigue. For anyone struggling with burnout, guided breathwork and LED light therapy restore focus and calm.

Pause Studio is among the first concepts in Nevada to unite such a wide range of services in one space. Float pods simulate weightlessness, reducing cortisol levels and allowing the body to relax deeply. Infrared saunas aid detoxification and improve circulation. IV therapy delivers hydration and essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream for

immediate results, while LED light therapy helps reduce inflammation and boost skin health. Even one session can leave guests feeling recharged, showing how accessible wellness can be when it’s built into daily life.

To introduce itself to the community, Pause Studio will host a multi-day grand opening celebration this October. Guests can tour the studio, try signature services like float pods and cryotherapy, and explore the restorative amenities that have made Pause a national wellness favorite. The first 50 guests each day can spin a prize wheel for branded merchandise or complimentary treatments, while all attendees can take advantage of exclusive introductory packages and discounted memberships available throughout the first month.

The grand opening also reflects Pause Studio’s commitment to community wellness. By offering hands-on experiences and education, the event provides residents with tools to manage stress, recover faster and prioritize holistic health. It’s not only a showcase of services but also an invitation to see how consistent self-care can improve balance and wellbeing long term.

Fast, holistic, and accessible, Pause Studio makes wellness approachable for everyone. By giving people the tools to restore both body and mind in one convenient location, it becomes easier to build self-care into everyday routines. From immersive floatation pods to nutrient-rich IV drips, Pause Studio is redefining what it means to invest in yourself.

This fall, Las Vegas residents can step into a space designed for recovery, resilience and renewal, taking their first step toward a healthier, more balanced life. Pause Studio Las Vegas is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pre-sale packages are available at pausestudio.com/lasvegas.

For more information on services and updates, follow @pauselasvegas on Instagram and Facebook.

LIFE-CHANGING BENEFITS OF MASSAGE >>> A Path to Lasting Health and Wellness

Massage therapy has long been seen as a luxury - something you treat yourself to on vacation or during a rare self-care day. But in reality, massage is far more than a pampering indulgence. It’s an evidence-backed wellness practice with physical, mental, and emotional benefits that become even more powerful when received regularly. From improving circulation to supporting mental health, the effects of routine massage can touch nearly every aspect of your well-being.

Enhanced Circulation and Muscle Recovery

One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits of massage is improved circulation. By applying pressure and movement to the body’s muscles and soft tissues, massage stimulates blood flow, helping oxygen and nutrients reach cells more efficiently. This process not only aids recovery after physical exertion but also supports overall organ health. And, for those who engage in regular physical activity, massage helps flush out metabolic waste such as lactic acid, which can build up in muscles after intense exercise. The result? Less soreness, faster recovery, and better performance in the long run.

Reduction in Chronic Pain and Muscle Tension

Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, whether from repetitive strain, postural imbalances, arthritis, or chronic conditions. Regular massage can be a game-changer for pain management. By loosening tight muscles, lengthening connective tissue, and improving range of motion, massage can reduce the discomfort that builds up from daily wear and tear. For many, the benefit is not just physical; it’s also psychological. Living with pain can heighten stress levels, which in turn can cause further muscle tension, creating a cycle that’s hard to break. Massage interrupts this loop by calming both the body and mind, allowing the nervous system to shift from a constant state of “fight or flight” into a more relaxed, restorative mode.

Lower Stress Levels and Improved Mental Health

The mental and emotional effects of massage are often just as profound as the physical ones. Research has shown that massage therapy can lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, while increasing serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of well-being. For people juggling demanding schedules, work pressures, and personal responsibilities, a massage can provide a rare moment of stillness. Over time, that mental reprieve can translate into improved mood, better emotional resilience, and even a reduced risk of stress-related health issues such as hypertension or weakened immunity.

Improved Sleep Quality

Another notable benefit of regular massage is its impact on sleep. The combination of reduced muscle tension, lower stress levels, and improved circulation creates optimal conditions for deeper, more restorative rest. This is especially valuable for individuals with insomnia, chronic pain, or anxiety, as these conditions can often interfere with the body’s ability to relax at night.

Stronger Immune Function

The connection between stress and immunity is well documented. Chronic stress can weaken the body’s natural defenses, making it harder to fight off illness. By reducing stress and improving circulation, massage supports immune function in multiple ways. Studies have found that massage can increase lymphatic flow, which helps the body remove toxins and transport immune cells more effectively. For those who seem to catch every cold or feel run-down during high-stress seasons, regular massage may be a helpful preventative measure.

Better Posture and Body Awareness

Modern lifestyles often involve long hours at a desk, in front of a screen, or in repetitive motion tasks. These habits can gradually pull the body out of alignment, leading to neck pain, back pain, and other posture-related issues. Massage works to release tension in overworked muscles, lengthen shortened muscle fibers, and bring the body closer to its natural alignment. But beyond the structural adjustments, regular massage can improve body awareness. As tight areas are released, clients often become more conscious of how they hold themselves throughout the day. This increased awareness can inspire healthier movement patterns, which in turn prevent future discomfort and injury.

The Power of Consistency

While even a single massage can leave you feeling refreshed, the benefits truly compound when treatments are received regularly. Think of it like exercise: the more consistent you are, the more your body adapts and improves. A routine massage schedule, whether weekly, biweekly, or monthly, helps maintain muscle health, keeps stress in check, and supports ongoing physical and mental wellness. Massage therapy is not just a treat; it’s a proactive investment in your health. By making it a regular part of your wellness routine, you can enjoy a ripple effect of benefits that touch nearly every aspect of your life, from your physical comfort to your emotional resilience.

Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind >>>

The Path to Becoming Your True Self

We all carry stories beneath the surface—old beliefs, fears, habitual thoughts—that play through our minds and shape what we expect, what we allow, and what we even dream to be possible. But here’s the good news: you can reprogram those inner recordings. You can shift the invisible parts of you, so they create joy, freedom, and expansion.

Why the Subconscious is Your Superpower

The subconscious is like fertile soil where everything inside you—beliefs, feelings, memories—takes root. If what has been planted there by default doesn’t uplift you, it’s time to gently till that soil. You deserve to plant seeds that nurture you: belief in your worth, confidence, peace, and purpose.

When you reshape that inner garden, your external life changes. New habits flow more easily. You respond from alignment rather than fear. Things you once resisted begin to fall into place.

The Heart and Science of Change

• Neuroplasticity shows us that our brains are never stuck. With intention and repetition, new neural pathways are created.

• Energy psychology and breathwork remind us that every belief is charged with energy—and we can shift that charge.

• Spiritual wisdom affirms that you are the creator of your inner world; shifting what’s inside shifts what you attract.

Tools to Reprogram

Here are practices that I often teach my clients—tools to tenderly and powerfully rewrite your internal programming:

Daily Affirmations and Declarations

Pick powerful, positive statements (in the present tense) such as “I am worthy of love, abundance, and peace.” Say them with emotion and clear intention. Let them radiate through your day.

Visualization

Close your eyes. See your desires as already lived. Feel the emotions as if they are happening now—joy, gratitude, relief. Let those feelings saturate your body. When your subconscious “feels” it, it begins to believe it.

Meditation + Deep Breath

When you slow down your breath and quiet your mind, you can contact the subconscious —the hidden stories. You can gently observe those stories, release what no longer serves you, and invite in new ones.

Be grateful

"Gratitude is the best attitude." When you are grateful for what you have, you open the doors for more blessings to come into your life.

Consistent Repetition + Small Dedicated Actions

Whether it’s journaling, meditation, or gratitude practice —small, consistent acts over time rewire deeply. What you repeat, you complete. Journaling is another useful tool to get out all the thoughts and put them on paper, so they no longer take energy from you.

Emotional Release and Healing

Sometimes beliefs are attached to old wounds, shame, or unhealed emotions. Working with breath, tears, therapy, or safe sharing can allow

those beliefs to dissolve so new ones can emerge.

How to Anchor This Work in Your Everyday Life

• Begin each morning with an intention: what do you choose today? What thought, what energy, what belief do you wish to carry? My children grew up being reminded to "Make good choices."

• When an old limiting belief pops up (and it will), don’t judge yourself. Notice it. Send it kindness. Then choose: do I continue with that or shift into a belief that empowers me?

• Keep reminders around—notes, alarms, objects—that signal your new beliefs. These nudges anchor the change.

A Manifesting Mindset Shift

Remember this: reprogramming is not about forcing. It’s about tuning in, aligning, and allowing. It’s not “fixing” something wrong—it’s revealing what’s always been possible. You are stepping back into the full glowing version of yourself.

Now, Let’s Put This into Action!

Take a moment now. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. See one limiting belief you carry. What if you could gently release it? What if you could replace it with something kind, true, expansive?

You are worthy of this work. You are capable of doing anything you set your mind to. As you begin to reprogram your subconscious mind, you are aligning with the life that’s been waiting for you all along.

Bonus Tip

Design a perfect day for yourself by making good choices, no matter the obstacles you must face. Command yourself to be productive by choosing three action steps to take daily. For example, when you awaken, command yourself to be aware of your breath and heartbeat. This awareness lets you know that you are alive. Next, decide what time of day you are willing to incorporate movement, i.e., walking, yoga, the gym, your choice…and make sure to follow through. Final step, incorporate an act of service every daycall a friend, offer to help anyone in need, step out of your comfort zone by spreading kindness.

This allows you to distract yourself from yourself and get out of your habitual patterns of dwelling and the “downward spiral” feeling. This will shift your mindset into a positive state of mind. You will then feel achieved and content.

Tsikki Thau is an internationally acclaimed stress management expert and manifestation coach with more than 30 years of experience transforming lives worldwide. Celebrated Author of Attract It All: The Real Secret to Manifestation. Creator of the S.N.A.P. method and Vibe-Up technology, Tsikki blends science with energy psychology to help clients overcome obstacles. She has been featured on numerous TV shows and received multiple accolades for her innovative work. Visit her at TsikkiThau.com. Follow on Instagram @TsikkiThauOfficial.

BROOKLYN BOWL LAS VEGAS

A Proactive Approach to Breast Health THERMOGRAPHY

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on proactive steps for early detection and prevention of breast cancer, which affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S. While mammography remains a cornerstone of screening, thermography is gaining attention as a complementary, non-invasive tool for monitoring breast health. This innovative imaging technique offers a unique perspective, empowering women to take charge of their wellness with cutting-edge technology.

What is Thermography?

Thermography, also known as digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI), is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging method that detects heat patterns and blood flow changes in the body. Using advanced infrared cameras, thermography captures subtle temperature variations on the skin’s surface, which can indicate physiological changes. In the context of breast health, these thermal patterns may highlight areas of concern, such as inflammation or abnormal vascular activity, often before structural changes are visible on traditional imaging like mammograms.

Unlike mammography, which uses X-rays to detect structural abnormalities, thermography focuses on functional changes. It’s painless, requires no compression, and poses no radiation risk, making it an appealing option for women seeking a holistic approach to breast health monitoring.

Why Thermography for Breast Health?

Breast cancer awareness is about early detection and prevention, and thermography offers a proactive tool. According to the American Cancer Society, early detection significantly improves breast cancer outcomes, with a 5-year survival rate of 99% for localized cases. Thermography’s ability to detect physiological changes, sometimes years before a tumor forms, makes it a valuable addition to a comprehensive screening plan.

Benefits of Thermography

• Non-Invasive and Safe: No radiation or compression, ideal for frequent monitoring.

• Early Detection Potential: Identifies heat patterns associated with angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth) or inflammation, which may precede tumor development.

• Accessible for All Ages: Suitable for younger women with denser breast tissue, where mammograms may be less effective.

• Holistic Monitoring: Tracks changes over time, empowering women to address lifestyle factors like diet or stress that may influence breast health.

Thermography and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October’s focus on breast cancer awareness makes it an ideal time to explore thermography. While not a replacement for mammography, it serves as a complementary tool, especially for women with dense breasts, a family history of breast cancer, or those seeking radiation-free options. The FDA recognizes thermography as an adjunctive tool for breast cancer screening, emphasizing its role alongside other methods.

What to Expect During a Thermography Session

A typical thermography session is quick and comfortable. Patients enter a temperature-controlled room, disrobe (for breast imaging), and allow their body to acclimate for about 15 minutes. A certified thermographer then uses an infrared camera to capture images, which are analyzed by trained professionals. Results are typically reviewed with the patient, highlighting any areas of concern and recommending follow-ups, lifestyle changes, or additional tests if needed.

Limitations and Considerations

While thermography is a powerful tool, it’s not a standalone diagnostic method. It cannot detect tumors directly and should be used in conjunction with mammography, ultrasound, or MRI as part of a comprehensive screening plan. Interpretation requires expertise, so choosing a certified provider is critical. The American College of Radiology notes that thermography’s sensitivity and specificity vary, underscoring the need for integrated care.

Taking Charge of Your Health

This October, as we honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, consider adding thermography to your wellness toolkit. Its non-invasive nature and focus on early physiological changes make it a forward-thinking choice for women prioritizing prevention. In Las Vegas, a hub of innovation and wellness, thermography is accessible through trusted providers who align with the city’s commitment to holistic health.

To learn more, visit a local wellness center or check out resources from organizations like the American Cancer Society (cancer.org) or the International Academy of Clinical Thermology (iact-org.org). Take a proactive step this month; your health is worth it.

We encourage readers to consult healthcare providers to determine the best screening methods for their needs. For more information about thermography here in Southern Nevada, call Las Vegas Thermography at (702) 553-0331.

>>> H-WAVE A

Breakthrough in Pain Relief, Swelling Reduction, and Healing Through Angiogenesis

Since its introduction in 1981, H-Wave® therapy has been transforming the way patients and clinicians approach pain management and recovery. Unlike traditional electrical stimulation devices, H-Wave is evidence-based, drugfree, and FDA-cleared, offering a safe and effective solution without the risks or side effects associated with opioids, narcotics, or invasive procedures.

Pain Relief Without Drugs & No Negative Side Effects

One of H-Wave’s most well-known benefits is its ability to deliver immediate pain relief in as little as 30 minutes. Peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated that H-Wave can provide relief lasting hours to days after a single session, taking pain off-line, delivering an analgesic effect. This makes it a powerful alternative for individuals struggling with chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or those who have not responded to conventional treatments. H-Wave is cleared by the FDA for electronic anesthesia, meaning it can block or significantly reduce pain pathways, helping patients regain mobility, independence, and quality of life without the need for medication.

Reducing Swelling and Inflammation & Activating your Lymphatic System

Beyond pain relief, H-Wave is unique in how it addresses swelling and inflammation, two of the body’s biggest barriers to healing. The device produces a non-fatiguing, non-tetanizing muscle contraction that mimics the body’s natural movements. This action promotes:

Lymphatic drainage: By creating a tissue fluid shift, H-Wave stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps clear toxins, waste, and excess fluid.

Reduction of edema: This makes it particularly effective for patients recovering from injury, surgery, or those suffering from chronic swelling conditions.

Decreased inflammation: The combination of improved fluid movement and circulation helps calm the inflammatory process, leading to faster recovery

and less pain.

Promoting Angiogenesis and Long-Term Healing

One of the most exciting aspects of H-Wave is its role in angiogenesis, the body’s process of creating new blood vessels. After just three weeks of consistent use, studies show H-Wave can stimulate angiogenesis, which is critical for:

• Peripheral nerve repair – improving function in cases of neuropathy or nerve damage.

• Bone health – supporting recovery in conditions like fractures, osteoporosis, and osteopenia.

• Wound and ulcer healing – improving circulation to compromised tissues and accelerating recovery.

By increasing nitric oxide production, vasodilation, and circulation, H-Wave provides the conditions the body needs to heal itself naturally.

Preventative and Long-Term Wellness

H-Wave isn’t just for recovery, it is also recommended to be used as a preventative wellness tool. Simple protocols, such as a full-body lymphatic flush, can be incorporated into a weekly routine to promote detoxification, reduce systemic inflammation, and maintain healthy circulation.

H-Wave is a game-changing therapy for individuals seeking pain relief, reduced swelling, and enhanced healing without drugs or invasive procedures. With over 22 published, peer-reviewed studies validating its effectiveness, it stands apart as a proven, safe, and versatile modality.

H-Wave is now available at OsteoStrong in Las Vegas for demonstrations. H-Wave is designed to be a home treatment, and it is recommended to treat in the comfort of your home with the available rental devices. Call 702-5519412 to inquire about a FREE 30 minute demonstration and treatment. Rental devices are limited due to demand. H-Wave rentals include unlimited free virtual support from the specialists at H-Wave.

Don’t let pain affect the quality of your daily life. Get back to doing the things you like, pain free.

Photo: KrisO.

COOKING WITH CHEF CHRIS Salt-Free Series:

Gina's Zucchini Bread from the McGill Garden

This month's recipe is dedicated to the famous McGill Family. Generations of cowboys and cowgirls. Champions, ropers, and ranchers. The family has been running the Zephyr Coves Stables for over 40 years now. The zucchini came from their garden. In the summer, imagine a home surrounded by tons of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. A little slice of heaven if you ask me! Not to mention all the animals too, even a couple miniature bulls. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them, thinking of them like family, just like everyone at Shakespeare Ranch. Now, here's a recipe straight from the garden.

Ingredients

1 cup shredded zucchini

3 cups ap flour (self rising for fuller lift)

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

3/4 cup oil

6 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract

2 cups of crushed nut mix. (I used pistachio and walnut.)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp all spice or Chinese

5 spice

1 cup maple syrup

How To Make

• Mix dry ingredients together, minus nuts *Separate bowl*

• Mix wet ingredients together, minus zucchini

• Mix both together… trust me. There's a reason you do it separately first. If you want to sift the flour, by all means do so, but this is a ranch ok?

• Mix in zucchini and then the nuts. Make sure you have your oven set to 375°f. Take batter and put into big muffin pans, filling 3/4 of the way. The way the batter falls will truly affect the balance on the rise of your muffins. Just know that. Or, fill a 200 series hotel pan that's buttered or oiled and slam it on a

counter to level Yeah, I said that.

• To make designs in the finished product, use maple syrup as your pen. After baking it will be that design. Or just leave it alone and glaze as desired. That's after baking for 20 minutes @ 375°f. Use a tooth pick or bakers tester to see if completely cooked. If not, continue cooking in 5 minute intervals.

• Finish and glaze it!

*You can substitute for other sugar types and such but this is solid. Remember one thing, if you want more batter, this is a 1:1 recipe so it never changes if you add more helpings. If you double or triple it, you use the same recipe. Even if you add an extra cup of shredded zucchini.

Chef Chris Rodarte is a multi-talented Chef and has cooked for some amazing people. Recipient of a Certificate of Achievement from The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and a Special Congressional Award from The US Senate. Thanks Jacky! Look for more on social media. If you like this recipe please give a like and follow, it helps: Instagram: @chef_chris_ rodarte, Facebook: @ Chef Chris Rodarte & @ Christopher Rodarte.

Shoot For The Stars, Because The Sky’s Not The LImit! Wait till you see what happens next….

THE TEMPLE RADIANCE LIFESTYLE with Gia

What is Joy?

When was the last time you truly experienced it? What about the word glee? When was the last time you even uttered the word glee unless it was that old TV series? Why do we explore this today? Adults are bad at joy. For the most part, adults don’t acknowledge joy as something to experience regularly; they think it’s a vacation or scheduled “play date” with a friend or spouse. This is not joy, per se, this is “I’m so burnt out I need to schedule myself some time to play”. You can certainly do this. Odds are, this places most adults in the category of needing a reality jolt before they decide to look at what joy can actually mean for them, but even those jolts (divorce, illness, death, etc) don’t lead us directly into joy.

According to Bronnie Ware and her hospice research over a decade it appears the single biggest regret people have when dying is that they wish they’d live a life true to themselves not what other people expected of them.

Here’s your KNOCK.

I invite you to use joy as your compass for just one day. Can you allow yourself to find joy in the mundane of brushing your teeth or doing dishes? You’d be surprised how one little act of joy begets another and so forth. Using joy as your compass does not bypass responsibility; that’s where people make the mistake of thinking joy is a holiday emotion or that we must schedule it. There is a place within me I call Joyland. Joyland is open 24/7. My heart is willing to find joy in the mundane.

So I ask you, dear friends. Do you want to finish this simulation with regret because you forgot about joy? Start today. Let joy be your compass; ask yourself “what’s the most joyful thing I can do right now?” feel a pure intention in your joy and take the leap of joy. You will be “caught” and supported in realms unimaginable. Trust.

Gia Kubik helps individuals evolve their consciousness. Temple Radiance is a lifestyle that supports living from our original blueprint of perfection; our divinity. Gia is a Midwife of Remembrance. Temple Radiance will increase your core vibration, and you will align with your infinite potential. Come explore a call with me. IG - @Gia.Kubik www.Giakubik.com.

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Sip Tea with Saba

What's the Tea on: Slippery Elm Bark

The statements in this editorial are simply for informational purposes, entertainment, and objective research and do not represent the views or policies of the publication, or any other organization with which the author may be affiliated. They are also not to be viewed as personal medical care, but rather for the purpose of general knowledge. The author is not a medical professional. The reader is strongly encouraged to speak to his/her own physician for medical advice.

What’s the Tea on Slippery Elm Bark?

Think the Age of Revolutions 1775 and onward: The room was dimly lit, the only illumination coming from a flickering candle on a small wooden table, casting shadows against the rough-hewn walls of the makeshift surgical quarters. A single window with a tattered curtain alongside the scent of antiseptic mingled with musty air. The silence is broken only by the sound of breathing and the occasional rustling of the surgeon’s hands shifting between instruments. The patient lay on the worn operating table, unconscious, his body vulnerable after a delicate abdominal century. It is before and during the 19th century, a time when medical science was still in its infancy in the West. The tools were simple, rudimentary, and the stakes high as ever. There are no sterile bandages, no advanced surgical equipment, just the courage of the surgeon and the trust of the patient. Amidst this uncertainty, one unusual resource had found its way into the hands of American doctors: the bark of the slippery elm tree. An invaluable tool passed on from the wisdom of the Native Americans.

The surgeon deep in concentration (with a bit of sweat running from his forehead), reached for a bundle of the bark. He had learned through experience and necessity that this bark, discovered and used by the Indigenous peoples long before European settlers arrived, held a secret to healing. It wasn’t just a remedy for digestive stress, as the settlers had quickly discovered; it was also a crucial tool in the operating room. The slippery elm’s inner bark, with its unique gel-like mucilage, was an ideal material to help control the fluid that spilled from the patient’s wound, similar to gauze. As the surgeon carefully packs the delicate incision, the absorbent, soft substance provides internal padding which reduces the risk of infection.

A Surgeon's Tool

This practice rooted in Indigenous wisdom, was not only effective but also well-documented in medical sources, such as its listing as a household remedy in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1820 to 1960, as well as The American Journal of Surgery in the 1940s, which noted its significant role in early surgeries. Though eventually replaced by more modern materials, the use of slippery elm bark in these early procedures underscored the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the era’s practitioners. In the dim light of that surgical room, the tree’s humble bark became a symbol of survival, bridging the gap between ancient knowledge and the evolving knowledge of the operating room.

Before the arrival of European settlers, Native American tribes such as the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Algonquin had already discovered the healing powers of the bark of slippery elm trees. The inner bark was carefully harvested, dried, and ground into powder for use in treating a variety of ailments. This versatile remedy is most famously known to ease digestive

issues, soothe sore throats, and treat skin irritations. In addition to its practical issues, the slippery elm also held spiritual significance for many tribes. They believed the tree could communicate with the spirit world, offering guidance and protection, further elevating its status as a healing gift of nature.

Bioactive Compounds

The medicinal benefits of slippery elm lie in its mucilage, as it absorbs water and becomes gel like. When consumed, this mucilage acts as a demulcent, forming a protective layer over irritated mucous membranes in the digestive system, throat, and respiratory tract. It has long been used to soothe conditions like acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and sore throats, offering relief through its protective and soothing properties.

Studies have confirmed slippery elm’s effectiveness in managing digestive issues. A study published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology found that slippery elm’s mucilage creates a barrier that helps alleviate heartburn and symptoms of GERD, offering a natural alternative to overthe-counter antacids. Additionally, its bioactive compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, arthritis, and even cancer. One important note is that if you are taking slippery elm powder in a capsule, it has the potential of slowing the absorption of other drugs, hence it is usually recommended to take slippery elm hours before or after other medications.

Slippery Elm and Cancer

In addition to its digestive and respiratory benefits, slippery elm has gained attention for its potential role in cancer treatment. A notable historical application of the tree’s bark is in Essiac tea, a formula developed by Canadian nurse Rene Caisse in the 1920s. Essiac tea, a blend of burdock root, sheep sorrel, slippery elm, and Indian rhubarb root, was used by Caisse to treat cancer patients, and many anecdotal reports

suggest that it helped reduce tumor size and alleviate symptoms. A fun fact is that the word Essiac is actually her name Caisse spelled backwards.

Research on slippery elm’s individual role in cancer treatment is still in its early stages. However, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties suggest that it may support overall health during cancer treatment.

Martindale: A Complete Drug Reference outlines that compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids may play a role in reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to cancer progression and metastasis. While more studies are needed, slippery elm’s legacy as a cancer-fighting supportive herb endures, thanks to its long history of medicinal use.

Drink Herbal Tea! A Loving Suggestion

So as you know, I’m the “tea lady”, which is funny because none of our best-selling High Tech Healing premium loose leaf tea blends are true teasthey are all herbal blends, which is why every month I focus on highlighting different herbs. Herbs are my passion, and sharing these historical and medicinal benefits are my joy, and a way that I have found that the general public is able to easily receive this joy and passion is through the form of a cup of tea. So it is only right that I outline the way to steep this legendary herb, Slippery Elm Bark, which is also one of the main features in our Trust Your Gut blend…

In preparing any sort of tea you will be using about 1 teaspoon per cup. In the case of slippery elm, if you would like to get the maximum access to its benefits, the powdered format is the best (and we in fact use the powdered version in Trust Your Gut). Steeping this blend for about 5-12 minutes to allow the mucilaginous properties of the tea to coat the throat and digestive tract, offering relief from sore throats, digestive upset, and even mild coughs. It is the absorption of water that this bark is able to obtain in its slippery manner. The benefits include both soluble and insoluble fiber. Its most notable property as a mucilage is soluble, however if you ingest the herb whole you will get the insoluble parts of fiber which provide bulk that supports digestion. The interesting part of the slippery manner that happens when adding water to this bark is that it is both soluble and insoluble fiber. It’s most notable mucilage is soluble, while if you ingest the herb whole you will get the bulking agent as an insoluble fiber. So try it as a tea or try it as a shot (drink it before it gets too bulky, and wash it down with lots of extra water)!

We are deeply grateful for the enduring gift of slippery elm bark, cherished through generations and rooted in tradition. May its legacy inspire you to explore its gentle support for yourself.

Visit us High Tech Healing at the Downtown Summerlin Saturday farmers market every week (two stalls down from Pahrump Honey), or online at www.hightechhealing.org.

PLANT MAGIC & MEDICINE

Liver Detox: Dandelion, Milk Thistle & Burdock

Your liver works tirelessly every day to filter toxins, metabolize nutrients, and keep your body in balance. But with today’s world of processed foods, alcohol, environmental toxins, and stress, your liver can become overburdened. Supporting your liver with gentle herbal allies not only helps detox and restore balance but can also improve digestion, boost energy, and support clearer skin. A happy liver truly means a healthier you.

The Healing Benefits of Liver Detox Herbs

• Dandelion Root – Stimulates bile flow, supports digestion, and helps the liver flush toxins.

• Milk Thistle – Rich in silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that protects liver cells and encourages regeneration.

• Burdock Root – Cleanses the blood, reduces inflammation, and supports both liver and kidney function.

• Ginger – Aids digestion, reduces bloating, and enhances circulation.

• Lemon – Alkalizes and provides vitamin C to boost detox pathways.

TIP: Support your liver daily by drinking plenty of water, eating bitter greens (like arugula, kale, and dandelion leaves), and reducing alcohol, processed foods, and sugar.

DIY Liver Detox Tea

What You’ll Need:

1 tsp dried dandelion root

1 tsp dried burdock root

1 tsp dried ginger root

½ tsp dried milk thistle seeds (lightly crushed)

Juice of ½ lemon (add after brewing)

2 cups hot water

How to Make It:

Combine the herbs in a teapot or heat-safe jar. Pour 2 cups of boiling

water over them, cover, and let steep 15–20 minutes. Strain, add fresh lemon juice, and enjoy warm.

How to Use It:

Drink 1–2 cups daily for gentle liver support.

DIY Liver Detox Tea

What You’ll Need:

Equal parts dried dandelion root, burdock root, and milk thistle seed 80–100 proof vodka (or glycerin for alcohol-free)

Glass jar with tight lid

Dark tincture bottles for storage

How to Make It:

Fill a clean jar halfway with dried herbs. Cover completely with vodka (or glycerin), ensuring herbs are submerged. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 6–8 weeks, shaking every few days. Strain and bottle in dark glass tincture bottles.

How to Use It:

Take 1–2 dropperfuls in water or tea up to 3 times daily to support liver detox and protection.

*DISCLAIMER: While these herbs are powerful liver allies, they aren’t for everyone. Avoid liver detox herbs if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on certain medications (especially blood thinners, diabetes meds, or those processed through the liver). Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any herbal detox protocol. DM me @hippiesoulhealing to grab one or learn more!

No More Masks >>> THE HAUNTING OF MY YOUNGER SELF

Halloween has always held a special place in my heart. It wasn't about the candy or even the costumes; it was about transformation. On that one day of the year, I could become anyone other than myself. I could be Superman, someone invincible, free from the emotional baggage I carried. But the mask wasn't just for Halloween— it became a way of life for me. Every day, I wore a mask, pretending to be someone stronger, someone capable of handling the pain. But deep down, I knew I was broken, and no mask could hide that.

If only there were a time machine so I could talk to my younger self. But what would I say? Staring into those innocent eyes, I'd know all the hurt hidden behind them. It would be like sitting across from someone who knows your deepest secrets, but I would have to tell him the harsh truths of our future, and I don't want that little boy to hurt more than he already does.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize how many emotions I buried deep inside. I used to think my childhood didn't matter, that it didn't shape who I became. But now, I see it did—shaping every decision, every choice I avoided, every attempt to numb myself. The pain and abuse from those years became a shadow that followed me, even as I tried to outrun it. I thought I could outsmart it, but I couldn't. The truth is, there was no escaping the damage I carried inside.

Why did I keep those emotions hidden for so long? I thought it was the right thing to do at the time. But it ruined me in ways I didn't understand. If I had learned to love myself back then—truly understood the power of selfcompassion—my life might have turned out differently. "Love yourself" sounds simple, yet for many of us, it was never taught, making it seem like a distant dream.

Looking back, I realize how my lack of self-love impacted every aspect of my life. It destroyed relationships, locked me in patterns I couldn't break. I tell myself I should have gotten help, but what 7-year-old seeks a therapist? I didn't. I chose to ignore the warning signs and kept pushing forward, as if nothing was wrong—my theme of adulthood. In doing so, I failed myself. I allowed myself to walk through life with pain; I never thought to stop and heal. Instead, I buried it deeper, pretending it didn't matter. But trauma doesn't stay hidden forever.

The choices I made in my youth were driven by my desperate need to escape the pain. I desperately wanted to be "normal," to fit in, to not feel different. But in trying to escape, I lost myself—the inner child who never had the chance to heal. What I once thought were survival mechanisms have now become the things that haunt me.

I wish I could tell my younger self there's no shame in asking for help. At 19, intrusive thoughts and actions landed me in the hospital, but my mother never spoke of it. I convinced myself it was a phase, a lie that led to a second hospital visit in my late 30s for the same thing. I eventually realized that I couldn't keep avoiding the pain. Healing required facing it head-on. I had to take off the mask and show the world who I truly was—a broken person in need of help and healing.

Today, I walk around hurting, but it's different. It's not the suffocating pain it once was. I'm learning to live with it, healing piece by piece as I let the pain surface and acknowledge it. It's okay to hurt. But sometimes, I find myself thinking, "I deserve this pain," which is a toxic mindset masquerading as survival. I've got to stop thinking that way.

I wish I could love myself, despite everything. I still cling to the hope that one day I'll look in the mirror and see something different. I long for the day when I see something good instead of the failures that have defined me. I want to see beauty, not the horror that's lived inside me for so long. I want to be able to look at myself and feel proud, to see someone who has overcome, someone who is whole again. It's a dream I hold close to my heart. But here's the thing about dreams—they don't always come true, and they certainly don't come without effort. The reality is that I may never fully heal. I may always carry these scars, and I may always feel like a compilation of my life's mistakes.

So, what would I tell my younger self? I would say to him that the masks are no longer needed. The costume you wear for Halloween doesn't have to be the mask you wear every day. The pain will always be there, but it doesn't define you. You are more than your trauma, more than your mistakes, more than your fears. And one day, you will look in the mirror and see someone you can be proud of. Someone who finally learned to love himself, not just on Halloween, but every day.

Let's be honest, sometimes I'm not sure if I'll ever get there and take the advice I would give to my younger self. Sometimes, I wonder if I'm destined to repeat the mistakes of my past. Maybe I will always feel like I'm living with the weight of my parents' choices, carrying the sins of their failures as if it were my responsibility. I don't know the answers, and sometimes I wish I did. But that's the thing about healing—it's not always about having all the answers. It's about the willingness to keep going even when you don't know where the road will lead.

When I think about what I would tell my younger self, I realize it's not just about warning him of the pain to come. It's about teaching him the power of resilience, the importance of asking for help, and the value of self-compassion. I would tell him that the road ahead will be filled with challenges, but if he learns to love himself through it all, he will find peace. I would remind him that healing is a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time.

I wish I could go back in time and change things, but I can't. I can't undo the hurt, the mistakes, or the choices that brought me here. But what I can do is continue to move forward. I can continue to learn, heal, and try to love myself—even when it feels impossible. Because, in the end, the most important thing we can ever do is learn how to love the person in the mirror without a mask.

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