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As summer unfolds, it quietly reminds us: Healing doesn’t always come in bottles or appointments. Sometimes, it comes in birdsong, in dappled sunlight, in the stillness beneath a tree.
Nature has always been our oldest healer. Long before studies confirmed it, we knew it in our bones—how stepping outside could ease the weight of worry, how a walk among trees could slow the racing mind. Today, research affirms what intuition has long known: being in nature lowers stress, lifts mood, regulates blood pressure and restores clarity.
But nature’s gift is more than physiological. It’s philosophical. In a world that rushes, it asks us to pause. In a culture that demands constant doing, it offers permission simply to be. There is wisdom in the wind, in the arc of the seasons, in the resilience of roots.
You don’t need a mountaintop or a plane ticket. Start with your front porch. A park bench. A moment beneath the open sky. Let
the Earth remind you what balance feels like—not forced, not scheduled, but remembered.
For our family, nature is not just a sanctuary—it’s a lifestyle. Nearly all our free time is spent outdoors, whether walking wooded trails, sharing stories around a crackling campfire, or boating across our quiet lake. These moments don’t just refresh us—they root us. They remind us that life’s deepest joys are often the simplest.
This summer, make time for the kind of connection that doesn’t require a screen. Let the natural world recalibrate your senses and your spirit. Heal not by effort, but by surrender, by listening and by breathing.
Wherever you are, the wild waits with open arms. Healing may be closer than you imagined—quiet, grounded and just beyond your door.
With reverence for the healing that lives in the land,
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© 2025 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.
Equestrian Adven tures offers guided horseback riding tours through some of Central Florida’s most scenic land scapes. Operated by Jennifer Miko, tours are available yearround by appoint ment in Ormond Beach and surrounding areas.
Each ride explores Florida’s natural beauty on horseback— whether along the ocean’s edge during the beach tour or through forested trails in state parks and preserves. Visitors experience oak hammocks, winding paths, coastal bluffs and wide-open spaces rarely seen from the roadside. The gentle, well-trained horses accommodate riders ages 10 and up, with a maximum weight limit of 230 pounds. Groups are limited to five or six riders, ensuring a calm, intimate experience with nature.
Reservations are required and scheduled based on availability, weather and tidal conditions. Custom ride packages are also offered for special occasions or tailored adventures. Riders may schedule tours by phone or through an online inquiry. Text messaging is encouraged for the quickest response.
Miko’s love for animals and her personal passion for trail and beach riding inspired her to create this immersive equestrian experience. With every tour, she helps guests create memories that last, fulfilling bucket list dreams and sharing the unique peace that comes from time spent with horses.
Location: Bridle Path Lane, Ormond Beach. For more information or to reserve a ride, call 386-846-8386 or visit EquestrianAdventuresFL.com.
The Barberville Pioneer Settlement offers a richly immersive educational experience that brings Florida’s frontier history to life. Organized by the nonprofit Barberville Pioneer Settlement, the tours take place daily in Barberville, showcasing life in rural Florida during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
led by knowledgeable guides. The village, located within a mossdraped oak hammock in western Volusia County, features a preserved collection of historical structures that paint a vivid portrait of a bygone era. From wood-framed homesteads to working blacksmith shops, each stop offers a tangible connection to the past.
The site also serves as a vital educational hub, hosting school groups from more than 16 counties across Florida. With several hands-on programs offered daily, it provides students with direct, tactile encounters with pioneer life. Due to its popularity, preferred dates often book a year in advance, underscoring its value as a trusted destination for experiential learning.
Founded in 1976 by a collective of Volusia County teachers passionate about the arts and history, the Barberville Pioneer Settlement continues to inspire through folk life demonstrations and preservation efforts. Its mission is to instill knowledge and appreciation of early Florida lifestyles through authentic engagement.
Location: 1776 Lightfoot Ln., Barberville. For more information, call 386-749-2959 or visit PioneerSettlement.org.
Amethyst Wellness will host its 10th anniversary celebration, themed A Decade of Radiance, from 4 to 7 p.m., July 18 at its Palm Coast location. The event marks 10 transformative years of holistic care and aesthetic medicine in the local community.
Founder Amy Coopersmith
Guests can choose between self-guided strolls or curated tours
Founded and led by Amy Coopersmith, ARNP, Amethyst Wellness is known for its integrative approach to health—blending preventive care with advanced aesthetic treatments. The anniversary gathering offers an opportunity for patients, friends and newcomers to engage with the practice’s mission of nurturing both inner and outer well-being.
Guests will enjoy refreshments, exciting raffles and exclusive giveaways throughout the evening. The celebration also features onenight-only specials on select services, providing a unique chance to explore the practice’s offerings in a festive, welcoming atmosphere.
The event’s theme honors not just the milestone itself, but the enduring relationships and transformative results that have defined Amethyst Wellness since its founding. Attendees are invited to bring a guest and share in this joyful tribute to community and care.
Location: 50 Cypress Point Pkwy., Ste. B1 & B2, Palm Coast. For more information, call 386-283-4180 or visit AmethystWellness.com. See ad page 17.
Glowing Beauty and Skin Care, in Daytona Beach, provides specialized esthetic treatments that enhance natural beauty and foster confidence. Owned and operated by Kim Thoa Nguyen—a skilled esthetician, Phibrow artist and lash specialist—the studio is dedicated to precision, artistry and personalized care.
The services offered include eyebrow microblading, powder brows, nano hairstroke brows, lash extensions, lash lifts, henna brows, lip blush, eyeliner tattooing and more. Each treatment is tailored to highlight individual features and deliver long-lasting, natural-looking results. Clients benefit from Nguyen’s detailed craftsmanship and her commitment to high hygiene and quality standards.
At Glowing Beauty and Skin Care, clients experience more than routine beauty care. The salon emphasizes luxurious pampering, offering a peaceful atmosphere where every appointment becomes an opportunity for rest and renewal. From expertly crafted lashes to subtle brow enhancements, the services blend modern techniques with a client-first philosophy.
Whether seeking to refine your everyday look or prepare for a special occasion, Glowing Beauty and Skin Care combines innovation and elegance. With its boutique setting and trend-forward approach, the studio stands out as a go-to destination for high-quality, customized beauty treatments.
Location: 1898 S. Clyde Morris Blvd., Ste. 380, Daytona Beach. For more information, text 386-282-2978 or visit GlowingBeautyAndSkinCare.com.
Kale Café, in Daytona Beach, offers customers a family-driven experience centered around whole, plant-based foods and cultural heritage. The café embraces a Jamaican vegan tradition with meals made from scratch using fresh, organic, and non-GMO ingredients.
Omar and Camilla Brown, the founders behind Kale Café, moved
from Brooklyn to Florida and built a business grounded in resilience, love and their Jamaican roots. Their food honors the recipes of their grandmothers and mothers, featuring dishes that are as nourishing as they are heartfelt. The café is known for its vibrant smoothies, house-made sauces, fresh-cut vegetables and scratch-prepared vegan staples including seitan, quinoa bowls, raw desserts and more.
Kale Café does much more than serve food—it nurtures the local community. From early days at the farmers market to present-day cooking classes, smoothie demos, and school visits, the Browns have made community engagement a core mission. Their six children often join in, making the café a true extension of their home.
With a menu inspired by wellness, seasonal produce and what’s on sale or freshly available, the café evolves constantly—just like the family who runs it. Whether one is a longtime vegan or simply curious, Kale Café invites everyone to experience plant-powered living with love and intention.
Location: 110 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach. For more information, call 386-236-8593 or visit KaleCafeJuiceBar.com.
Mediumship with Angels, LLC, founded by angelic medium Dominique Lavoisier, shares a simple practice to help individuals feel more grounded and peaceful in everyday life. By sitting quietly and focusing on the concept of Earth’s vibration, people can deepen their sense of inner calm and connection to the world around them.
The practice is accessible anywhere and at any time. Individuals are encouraged to imagine the sound of the vibration of Earth, and then ask to connect with it. Many describe the experience as bringing lightness, peace and a deep sense of alignment. This gentle tip offers a path to serenity and clarity through conscious awareness of Earth’s nurturing presence.
Lavoisier emphasizes empowerment as central to his work with clients. “Everyone has the ability to feel good about their life, attract success and experience peace in relationships,” he says. Through intuitive support and spiritual insight, Lavoisier helps individuals reconnect with their purpose and potential.
Mediumship with Angels provides remote mediumship and oracle readings to support emotional well-being and personal transformation. The practice encourages people to trust their inner guidance and embrace a life of balance and fulfillment. For more information or to book a session, visit MediumshipWith Angels.com.
A recent study published in the journal Nature suggests a potential link between the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of developing dementia. To investigate this correlation, the researchers analyzed data from a population of Welsh individuals residing in the United Kingdom. Adults born after September 2, 1933, were eligible for a free vaccination, whereas those born before that date were not. Nearly half of the eligible individuals received the vaccine, compared to a negligible number that missed the cutoff date.
The researchers compared the dementia diagnosis rates of the two groups and found that the vaccinated subjects were 20 percent less likely to develop dementia in the subsequent seven years as compared to the unvaccinated group. Notably, the protective effect was more pronounced in women than in men. Hypothesizing why the shingles vaccine had this effect, the study’s senior author, Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer, told The New York Times, “Inflammation is a bad thing for many chronic diseases, including dementia, [so] reducing these reactivations and the accompanying inflammation may have benefits for dementia.”
The shingles virus, which is caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox, can remain dormant in nerve cells for decades before reactivating in older adults as their immune systems weaken. Symptoms include burning and tingling sensations, painful blisters, numbness and chronic nerve pain. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in three Americans will develop the condition in their lifetime, but only about onethird of adults over the age of 50 have been vaccinated.
By Stephany Levine
A study by Israeli researchers published in the journal reported that cellular structures known as proteasomes not only facilitate the breakdown of damaged proteins, but also generate small protein fragments, collectively referred to as peptides, that attack bacterial infections.
Using lab experiments and computer modeling, the scientists identified hundreds of thousands of potential antimicrobial peptides from normal proteasome activity.
The study demonstrated the enhanced ability of proteasomes to produce protective peptides when confronted with a bacterial infection. To test this, scientists inhibited proteasome production in one group of human cells and left another group unaltered. Both groups were then exposed to salmonella. The infection thrived within the cells lacking proteasomes but was eradicated in the control group. This discovery could lead to the development of improved antibiotics and other infection-fighting therapies.
While the Pap smear helps diagnose more than 13,000 cases of cervical cancer annually in the United States, nearly a quarter of American women are lagging behind in their screening regimen due to various factors, including discomfort, pain, invasiveness or even traumatic experiences associated with the procedure. Recently, Teal Health, Inc. received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for an alternative cervical cancer screening device that can be used at home.
The Teal Wand enables individuals to self-collect vaginal samples using a swab, which is subsequently mailed to a laboratory for testing purposes, where it is analyzed to detect the human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes nearly all cervical cancers. A clinical study demonstrated that the Teal Wand was as effective as a Pap smear in detecting early-stage cervical precancers. Among the study participants, 94 percent preferred the self-collection method over the Pap smear, and 86 percent expressed a willingness to main
chills, body aches, nausea and fatigue.
Historically, the disease has been reported in the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States. In this study, researchers collected more than 1,300 black-legged ticks from Virginia, Maryland and Delaware and discovered that 2.7 percent of the ticks carried the babesiosis parasite. Although the incidence rate is relatively low, these findings underscore the importance of healthcare providers in these states to be vigilant for the disease and provide appropriate treatment to affected individuals.
Aug 2nd, 2025 10am-4pm
Laughing Lotus Yoga & Wellness hosts an open-hearted series of yoga and meditation gatherings at its serene studio in Flagler Beach, just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. These events invite individuals of all levels to cultivate mindfulness, body awareness and community connection through a broad range of wellness offerings.
Founded with the intention of nurturing a spiritual community, or Sangha, Laughing Lotus welcomes everyone—from newcomers to longtime practitioners. The studio’s schedule reflects this inclusive mission, offering classes that cater to a wide spectrum of interests and needs. Foundational classes such as Intro to Yoga provide an accessible entry point for those just beginning their journey, while Yoga Nidra guides participants through restful, meditative states that support deep physical and mental rejuvenation.
Gentle modalities including Sacred Yin, Chair Yoga and Rest, Renew, Restorative Yoga emphasize ease and calm, creating space for
and play into the mix, encouraging expressive movement and joyful exploration.
Classes are designed to support each participant’s unique needs. Skilled instructors offer pose modifications, mindful guidance and the use of supportive props. Many sessions integrate complementary practices such as sound healing, trauma-informed yoga and cultural dance, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and holistic expertise of the teaching team.
Padma Michelle, an Amrit Yoga practitioner and the studio’s founder, leads with a heart-centered philosophy that shapes every aspect of Laughing Lotus. Alongside a passionate team, she fosters an atmosphere where individuals reconnect with themselves and others through the transformative power of movement, breath and stillness.
Each class is led by an experienced instructor with expertise across yoga, movement and holistic health.
flexibility and relaxation. In contrast, movement-rich offerings like Flow & Release, Power Flow and Yoga Sculpt integrate dynamic motion with breathwork, building strength and vitality. These invigorating sessions appeal to those seeking a more physically active approach to wellness.
Morning classes such as Rise & Shine and Gentle Flow Yoga invite reflection and connection with nature, with optional beach walks enhancing the experience. Other offerings—like Pilates Fusion, Go With The Flow and Belly Dancing—bring creativity
Flagler Beach residents and visitors are invited to explore this growing wellness community. Whether seeking inner calm, physical vitality or a renewed sense of connection, participants are encouraged to arrive as they are.
Mentioning this article or their ad provides the opportunity to receive one free class. Limit one per person. Location: 208 Moody Blvd., Flagler Beach. For more information, call 386-871-2504 or visit LaughingLotusFB. com. See ad opposite page.
WMother Earth.
“I think that microadventures are popular right now because we are short on time, and money is tight for many people,” says Humphreys, a National Geographic
Humphreys has traveled the globe experi encing extraordinary adventures such as rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, walking the length of the holy Kaveri River in India and traversing Iceland by foot and packraft. More recently, he dedicated a year to
“I focused on the single, small local map centered around my home, covering about five miles in each direction from my front
ried that this would be too small, too boring or too claustrophobic. But I realized that once I slowed down, paid attention and haded to discover new places close to home I’d never seen before—new streets, new parks, new patches of woodland, new places to run. I found fragments of wild places where I could sit with a cup of coffee, all within sight of the skyscrapers of the biggest city in my country.”
Humphreys encourages others to embark on a similar year of localized exploration, reminding them to establish realistic goals and remain open to novel experiences. He also suggests aligning activities with the seasons to harmoniously celebrate the natural order. Visit the same spot during each equinox and solstice, for example, to appreciate the way the landscape changes over the course of a year. A mountain view or shoreline feels and looks different in spring, summer, autumn and winter.
“Declare your intention and outline your plans,” Humphreys recommends. “Sleep outside one night. See a sunrise blaze across the sky for a romantic Valentine’s Day. Celebrate blue moons and other celestial events.” Natural splendor is all around us.
Kameron Stanton is the chief operating officer and event manager for Black People Outside, a Chicago-based organization founded during the pandemic to encourage people of color to get outside and explore. A weekend trip with his partner, Chevon Linear, to the Grand Teton National Park during lockdown was a memorable experience. “Seeing the stars so clearly at night unlocked something in us,” Stanton recalls. “We regained a respect for Mother Nature and what the beauty of the outdoors could do for your psyche.”
A microadventure in nature presents Stanton with unique survival challenges. “In the city, everything is zooming past you so quickly. When you are outside in the wilderness, you are often alone with your thoughts and have to fend for yourself in a different way,” he explains. “If you don’t build a fire, you’re going to be cold. If you don’t have the right equipment, you could get in trouble. There are little things the outdoors can teach you in a controlled manner. You learn lessons in planning and structuring your day, while still having fun and discovering new things about yourself and the world you’re in.”
“Activities like hiking help build strength, endurance, respiratory health, weight loss and so many other physical elements,” Stanton asserts. “Most people you meet who regularly spend time outdoors tend not to be angry and upset. They’re looking at the brighter side of things because they are literally around brighter things. Nature feeds you and helps you feel grounded with your thoughts and feelings.”
Microadventures can also be opportunities for social engagement. Stanton suggests joining a local club related to an interest such as fishing, running or birdwatching. “Once you start having microadventures, you’ll connect with like-minded people, and you never know where that may lead you,” he says.
There are myriad ways to enjoy a microadventure in almost any environment, including hiking, kayaking, biking, skiing, climbing, rollerblading and fishing. “Forest preserves and state and national parks offer incomparable views and trails year-round. They tend to have a low admission price, and most are accessible as long as you have a vehicle,” says Stanton, noting that a lazy afternoon fishing or tubing down a river may be just a short drive away.
Day hiking has become a popular pastime, in part because it combines many of the advantages of microadventures. “It offers a perfect opportunity to break away from the routine, explore nature and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of being outdoors," says Jacqueline Kehoe, a journalist and expert advisor for Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), which provides a wide range of equipment, apparel, workshops and other resources for adventure seekers. Similar gear retailers include Backcountry and Sierra Trading Post.
“Whether you’re planning a short stroll through a local park or a longer trek up a nearby mountain, you always want to be prepared,” Kehoe advises. “Packing the right gear will help you make the most of your time on the trail, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out.” For most microadventures, a small hiking pack should suffice for carrying the necessary gear.
What to bring depends on multiple factors, including trail conditions, weather, the hike’s difficulty and the duration, which can range from a couple of hours to an entire day. Kehoe recommends bringing ample food and water to stay energized and hydrated, even on shorter hikes. A good starting point is one
liter of water per person per hour, but this amount should be adjusted based on individual needs and the intensity of the hike. “Once your hike is longer than a few hours or goes into unfamiliar or backcountry terrain, the essential gear list grows,” Kehoe counsels.
Weather-appropriate clothing can make or break an adventure. “Dressing in moisture-wicking layers can help you stay comfortable. The weather may change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for various conditions. Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes that provide good support and traction. Proper footwear can prevent injuries and make your hike more enjoyable,” says Kehoe.
Safety should always be the top priority. “If you’re going somewhere that is unfamiliar, having the right tools can help you stay on course and find your way back if you get lost. Whether it is a smartphone app or map and compass, orient yourself with your tools and your surroundings before heading off on the trail,” Kehoe suggests. “A basic first-aid kit is useful for treating minor injuries. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications. A knife or multitool can be handy for various tasks, from cutting food to making repairs.”
With a little creativity and planning, microadventures can become a joyful addition to an active lifestyle. Humphreys encourages people to step outside, even for short periods of time, asking, “What can you do in the evenings to relax rather than watching Netflix? Can you find a little patch of nature or even a tree to sit beneath when you eat your lunch? Maybe your kids would like to eat breakfast in the park this weekend rather than in front of the TV. Learn to identify a new bird. Forage for your own food. Sleep under a full moon. Share a microadventure with a child to create lifelong memories.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com. The Tomoka River
In Episode 004 of Energize and Revitalize with Dr. Amy, titled Clean Living Made Simple, Anita Calandra-May joins host Dr. Amy Coopersmith for a compelling exploration of how to reduce toxins in everyday life. The conversation is both practical and empowering, offering listeners a clear roadmap for transitioning to a cleaner, healthier lifestyle.
Calandra-May, a certified holistic nutrition practitioner and founder of Natural Wellness by Anita (NaturalWellnessByAnita.com), brings a grounded and relatable voice to the subject. She shares her personal wellness journey and the foundational belief that small, intentional changes yield lasting results. Her message is simple, but powerful: Clean living doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Listeners learn how everyday products—such as cooking oils, cleaning agents and personal care items—can contain hidden toxins that negatively impact health. Calandra-May recommends simple swaps, like using avocado or olive oil instead of processed vegetable oils, and replacing synthetic cleaners with natural solutions like white vinegar and baking soda. Her advice is clear: “Start small. Focus on one room, one product or even one meal at a time.”
Coopersmith guides the conversation with insight and empathy, skillfully balancing scientific credibility with genuine curiosity. When Calandra-May discusses switching to glass containers, Coopersmith asks, “What kind of difference can that make hormonally?”—a thoughtful prompt that opens the door to a discussion about endocrine disruptors and their cumulative effect on the body. Her questions consistently add depth, offering listeners not just practical advice but also the biological rationale behind it.
Calandra-May emphasizes progress over perfection. She encourages listeners to adopt a mindful approach to consumption, reading labels carefully and making informed choices without guilt or pressure. Her practical tips make clean living feel less like a strict regimen and more like an empowering lifestyle shift.
The episode balances science with simplicity, demystifying wellness trends and highlighting the power of informed decisions. For
instance, Coopersmith addresses the confusion around product labels by clarifying the difference between natural, organic and non-toxic, citing how regulatory loopholes can mislead consumers. This grounding in fact helps listeners approach their choices with clarity rather than fear, reinforcing the show’s educational purpose.
The chemistry between Coopersmith and Calandra-May creates an engaging dialogue filled with actionable takeaways. They discuss the emotional and logistical hurdles of change, from social pressures to budget constraints, offering realistic solutions and encouragement for listeners at all stages of their health journey.
Energize and Revitalize with Dr. Amy is a podcast dedicated to empowering individuals through education and honest conversation. Each episode tackles a new dimension of holistic health, from nutrition to hormone balance to mental well-being.
The podcast is hosted by Coopersmith, DNP, ARNP, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with nearly 30 years of clinical experience. She is the founder of Amethyst Wellness, in Palm Coast, Florida, celebrating its 10th anniversary this July and a practice that blends medical expertise with a holistic approach to aesthetic and integrative care. Coopersmith earned her nursing degrees from Georgetown University, the University of San Diego, and the University of Florida, and served as a Major in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps.
Through both her podcast and her practice, Coopersmith continues to offer guidance, support and inspiration to those seeking vibrant, sustainable health.
Location: 50 Cypress Point Pkwy., Ste. B1+B2, Palm Coast. For more information, call 386-283-4180 or visit AmethystWellness.com. Check out recorded podcasts at YouTube.com/@AmethystWellness2558. See ad page 17.
by Sandra Yeyati
Julian Hoffman is an award-winning fiction and creative nonfiction writer who explores the connections between humans and the natural world, underscoring an inescapable need for conservation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Carleton University, in Ottawa, Canada. Hoffman’s first book, The Small Heart of Things, won the 2012 Association of Writers & Writing Programs Award Series for Creative Nonfiction, as well as the 2014 National Outdoor Book Award for Natural History Literature.
In his book Irreplaceable, Hoffman celebrates the imperiled places that are increasingly vanishing from the world, including coral reefs, tallgrass prairies, ancient woodlands and meadows, along with the many species that live there such as nightingales, elephant seals, water voles, redwoods,
hornbills and lynxes. It was the Highly Commended Finalist for the 2020 Wainwright Prize for Writing on Global Conservation. His latest book is Lifelines: Searching for Home in the Mountains of Greece.
What was the impetus for writing Lifelines?
I wanted to tell the story of the remarkable Prespa basin, where my wife and I live in Greece. But I also wanted to tell a bigger story of the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, to explore how our lifelines are entwined. I wanted to see what we get right and what we very often get wrong, and how we might go about healing some of those divisions and building stronger and more resilient bridges between the two, because our lives are dependent on the wild world that we nest inside.
What are the most salient characteristics of the Prespa basin?
Prespa is a unique crossroads place where three countries come together around two ancient lakes that hold colonies of Dalmatian and Great White pelicans. While my wife and I live in Greece, on the other side of the borders are Albania and North Macedonia. This is also where Mediterranean species meet their Balkan relatives in these colder mountains and where a geological line down the middle of the basin separates limestone on one side from granite on the other. This geological collision means that different flora and invertebrate communities can coexist in the same place.
Because of the complex demographic and political histories of the region, and the borders that divide this watershed, it’s a place where conflict has often left terrible legacies that have been written into the landscape itself. But—and this is one of the key themes in the book—it’s also a place where bridges are being slowly and gradually built. Just like those other crossroads of geology and different communities of wild species, I believe borders are not only points of division, but also places of meeting and connection, if we choose them to be. The Prespa transboundary region is showing us a way forward, slowly and not without problems, that the key to change is to recognize that we are connected beyond borders. Climate change, for example, doesn’t recognize a line in the water but greatly affects us all.
You posit that humans need to reimagine their definition of home. Could you expand on that?
In Lifelines, I write of what happened to us when the chimney of our house caught fire here in Greece. I was frozen with fear and panic, not knowing what to do. There was smoke everywhere, making it hard to see, but through the smoke, suddenly people in our village came running to help extinguish the fire and save our home.
Not only were we deeply grateful, but that experience also got me thinking about how the world might look if we were able to extend our sense of home beyond the physical dwellings that we live in to the wider places
around us. What if we formed bonds with a greater landscape that were just as fierce and carried the same sense of obligation to protect it that our fellow villagers showed that day when they came out to save a house?
Where do you find glimmers of hope?
When I was writing Irreplaceable, I met people who were working day after day to save some wild place or species from destruction. Sometimes, it was a place as small and seemingly unimportant as an urban park, but for those local people, that place meant the world to them, and what amazed and fascinated me was that every one of the people I spent time with were just ordinary folks.
We all have a capacity for the extraordinary, to help bring about change through small actions, but the key to that is to stand together with other people. Through community and coalition, we become a much stronger force, no matter how small we might think ourselves to be, and in that sense, those glimmers of hope are absolutely everywhere, either in action today or in the potential for action tomorrow.
Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.
by Marlaina Donato
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 85 percent of Americans aged 20 and older consume breakfast daily, with eggs being a common component. Eating protein during the first meal of the day can help us feel full longer, balance blood sugar levels and potentially alleviate chronic anxiety. In addition to complex carbohydrates, fiber and heathy fats, the Mayo Clinic recommends that a nutritious breakfast always include lean protein.
“Protein is the master synthesizer, essential in its role in muscle building, immune function and energy balance,” says Melissa Halas, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator in California. “Including protein early in the day helps prevent the common energy dip mid-morning and keeps satiety levels high, supporting healthy metabolism and preventing overeating later.” Protein requirements increase during periods of stress, recovery from injury or surgery, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and life stages such as childhood, adolescence and the golden years.
Typical sweet cereals favored by kids often contain a high sugar content of 12 grams per cup, which is half of the daily recommended added sugar allowance for young children, as outlined by the
American Academy of Pediatrics. Replacing low-nutrient, high-carbohydrate choices like white-flour pancakes and sugary cereal with delicious, plant-based scrambles, naturally sweet or savory breakfast bowls and delectable fruit parfaits can be both simple and satisfying.
Even if our breakfast choices are already healthier, a little extra fortification can do the body good. “Many common breakfasts like oatmeal and avocado toast don’t have enough protein, so it’s a good idea to be diligent about meeting your protein needs at breakfast. It’ll set you up for better energy, focus and satisfaction throughout the morning, plus better metabolism. The key is combining protein with fiber and healthy fats to keep you full and fueled until lunchtime,” says New York City-based Samantha Cassetty, a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of Sugar Shock and founder of Sam’s Plate, an online nutrition and wellness source.
Whether we incorporate a tablespoon of unsweetened organic almond or peanut butter into oatmeal or layer smoked salmon and cream cheese on multigrain toast, an added source of protein can provide a boost of energy and vitality.
As a single mom, Cassetty understands the challenges of transitioning kids away from sugary foods and highly processed ingredients. She suggests making smart substitutions, such as serving whole-grain frozen waffles topped with berries and protein-rich Greek yogurt or breakfast nachos with whole-grain tortilla chips instead of breakfast tacos in highly processed taco shells. For a fun breakfast parfait, she heats frozen berries until they release their juices and then mixes the warmed fruit with plain Greek or plant-based yogurt. To enhance the texture and nutritional value, she adds a spoonful of chunky nut butter, a sprinkle of nutritious seeds or low-sugar granola.
An extra-hearty breakfast can be as simple as adding a scoop of whey or plant-based protein powder into a whole-grain waffle mix or blending grass-fed gelatin powder into a smoothie. Protein-rich tofu, which is virtually tasteless when unseasoned, not only absorbs any flavors added to it, but also transforms into a luscious pudding when blended with a dash of plant-based milk, cinnamon and dates.
For Halas, tofu scrambled in a pan as an egg substitute and served on a whole-grain tortilla with turmeric and vegetables offers a well-balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates. She also recommends multipurpose cottage cheese, a favorite of generations past, for breakfast bowls mixed with berries, flaxseeds and walnuts, or spread onto toast with avocado. Full- or reduced-fat ricotta can provide a healthy alternative, as well.
Nutrient-dense pseudo-grains like quinoa and amaranth offer versatility. “Quinoa is traditionally eaten for breakfast in countries such as Peru as a warm porridge known as pesque,” explains Halas. “You can cook quinoa or amaranth in cow or plant milk and top it with fruit, seeds and cinnamon for a warm cereal bowl particularly well-suited for vegetarian, gluten-free and anti-inflammatory diets, making it an excellent alternative to conventional grains at breakfast.”
Cassetty offers a savory variation, saying, “You can use quinoa to make a breakfast grain bowl with sautéed spinach, eggs and a seasoning like pesto.” She also encourages using dinner leftovers for morning nourishment.
Most of all, breakfast should feel doable. “I recommend making
breakfast nourishing, satisfying and practical—something you can prep ahead of time or whip up fast,” advises Halas.
Marlaina Donato is an author and artist. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp ghee, butter or vegan butter, unsalted
1 block firm tofu
¼ tsp smoked paprika
1 dash turmeric powder
Smoked salt to taste
2 Tbsp fresh salsa
2 Tbsp fresh guacamole
Drain water from tofu and pat dry, then crumble it by hand or smash it with a fork or potato masher.
Warm the olive oil and ghee or butter in a pan over high heat until melted. Add the crumbled tofu to the pan, moving it quickly from side to side with a spatula for about 2 minutes until it resembles the consistency of scrambled eggs.
Reduce the heat to medium and add smoked paprika and turmeric. Stir until spices are well distributed and the color is even throughout the scramble.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of smoked salt. Add fresh salsa and guacamole, if desired, on the side or spooned over the scramble.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat or fat-free)
½ cup papaya, diced ½ cup low-sugar granola
1 tsp honey
Add ¼ cup of yogurt to the bottom of a 12- or 16-ounce glass. Add most of the diced papaya and granola and a drizzle of honey to the glass. Layer on the remainder of the yogurt. Top with the remaining papaya, granola and honey.
Recipe courtesy of Melissa Halas, MA, RDN, CDE.
by Marlaina Donato
Summer presents a timely invitation to sip from a full cup, set aside todo lists and sink our toes into all that shimmers. Somewhere between keeping the kids entertained and weeding the flower beds is an opportunity to tend to our abandoned joys. It can be as simple as noticing the tinkling of ice cubes in a glass or planning an enchanted picnic at sunset with colorful cloths draped beneath a tree.
Summer comes but once a year, and as our backyard blooms in vibrant hues, so should we. Buying new, sultry spices for the cupboard, scenting the bed sheets with stress-reducing ylang ylang essential oil, placing fresh flowers into a tea pot instead of
a traditional vase or walking barefoot after a storm tells the nervous system that there is more to life than the chores. Inspiration is an unpredictable muse; waiting for her to notice us in our busy lives is most often futile. Combating the monotony of routine in small, daily gestures is easy and lights up our senses.
Relinquishing the common tendency to feel self-conscious is key. “Be brave enough to live life creatively,” says actor Alan Alda. Such courage may require that we break our own rules. If you usually prefer venturing out with company, make a point of going out solo for a backroad drive with no destination and a good playlist. If you haven’t drawn since childhood, buy some colorful
pens and doodle in a sketchbook. Host a fancy herbal tea party and invite a neighbor you’ve never spent time with.
Wear a breezy scarf and flowers in your hair, even if you’re just running errands. Ask someone you’ve long admired to go out on a date and attend a local free concert under the stars. Everyone that is accustomed to seeing you living life a little more low-key will get over it. Having a wild love affair with summer is good for the soul and might even change your life.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
by Maya Whitman
The world’s agriculture is largely reliant on the cultivation of single crops upon sizable tracts of land for staples like wheat, corn, soybeans and rice. Known as monoculture, this approach offers efficiency and low-cost produce, but it also carries significant ecological consequences, including the depletion of soil nutrients, ground pollution, increased carbon emissions, water scarcity, crop failures and the loss of pollinators due to degraded ecosystems.
One promising sustainable alternative is the development of decentralized food forests in
small, local settings like rural backyards, urban parks, roadsides and vacant lots. Based on agroforestry—the practice of integrating trees and shrubs with diverse crops—food forests simulate the verticality of a forest while creating highly diverse ecosystems comprised of tiers of edible plants.
According to Science Mill, a Texas-based nonprofit that promotes scientific exploration and education, the ideal food forest is comprised of multiple layers, including a canopy of large fruit and nut trees, an understory of dwarf fruit trees, shrubs
such as blueberries or currants, perennials and herbaceous plants, ground cover plants like creeping thyme, root crops and climbing vines.
These regenerative, edible landscapes replenish themselves, eliminating the need for annual replanting. Harmonious crops work as a symphonic whole, naturally repelling pests and fortifying the soil. The resulting benefits include water conservation, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, thriving pollinator populations, bolstered local economies and a reduction of food transportation costs.
“By creating a regenerative edible garden in whatever space you have available, you are creating habitats and food for the preservation of nature that allows all life—wild and tamed, present and future—to thrive. No plot of land is too small to start a magic garden,” says Maria Rodale, a master gardener and board member of Rodale Institute, as well as the author of several books, including Organic Manifesto. “For me, it’s not regenerative unless it’s organic, and it’s especially regenerative if we are gardening with and for nature, rather than just for ourselves.”
The first step in planning an edible paradise is consulting a resource such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map (PlantHardiness.ars.usda.gov) to determine which plants thrive in the local climate zone. Choosing native, food-bearing
plants and using organic mulch year-round will enhance the garden’s resilience against extreme weather conditions, and annual rotation of plant families will help prevent disease. In urban or small areas, vertical gardening, which is most easily achieved by adding trellises to raised beds, will maximize the available space for additional plants.
“It’s absolutely not necessary to own a lot of land to create a food forest,” says Rodale, noting that edibles can be grown in pots on windowsills, in the front or back yard, and even on rooftops. She recommends planting an understory of edible berries, as well as herbs and vegetable crops at the ground level. Root vegetables such as purple sweet potatoes “make a beautiful ground cover, and the leaves are even more delicious than spinach. Other roots like horseradish make beautiful and productive landscape plants,” she explains.
According to New Jersey horticulturist and certified arborist Melinda Myers, “Containers are great options for everyone. You can increase growing space and keep the plants handy for easy planting, care and harvesting. I like to invite my guests to pick their own salad ingredients, herbs for seasoning or fresh tomatoes for snacking from containers on my patio.”
Myers, an instructor in The Great Courses series How to Grow Anything and the author of several gardening books, incorporates edible plants with flowers in her garden beds and containers. “‘Bright Lights’ Swiss chard has colorful stems and makes a nice vertical accent in containers. It combines nicely with pansies and colorful lettuce in the spring and fall,” she says. “I love to grow asparagus at the back of my perennial gardens. I harvest the spears in spring, and once the greenery appears to replenish the plant’s energy, I have a nice, ferny backdrop for the flowers.”
Sharing a garden surplus with neighbors, senior centers and other organizations that need nutritious produce can have a far-reaching positive impact. Collaborating with fellow gardeners to swap helpful hacks or share garden chores can also be a blessing. “People are so busy these days that working with others provides lots of benefits,” says Myers, praising the round-robin approach “where you help each other tend your gardens, share food and drink and have some time to socialize.”
Creating a food forest aims to foster a thriving ecosystem and a sense of community that extends to nature. “Let the weeds be part of your garden,” exclaims Rodale. “Many common weeds are habitats for the bugs that feed birds and are edible and medicinal. I noticed that groundhogs and rabbits preferred the weeds to my vegetables when I stopped weeding so heavily.”
Maya Whitman is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.
by Megy Karydes
As summer’s longer days encourage outdoor activities, we face heightened exposure to solar radiation and other environmental irritants. Skin protection becomes a priority, and conventional options often employ synthetic ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin and cause adverse environmental effects. Natural alternatives offer a gentler and more sustainable approach to maintaining healthy and resilient skin all season long.
Summer protection extends beyond aesthetic and physiological considerations. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, individuals of all ages are susceptible to skin cancer, with about one in five Americans developing the condition during their lifetime. Because solar radiation can cause burns, skin cancer and premature aging, avoiding the most intense rays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., seeking shade, applying sunscreen and wearing wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing are some of the easiest safeguards.
During the summer months, the skin takes a beating from heat, sweat, sun exposure and frequent washing, so using products that both soothe and restore balance is important. Natural ingredients, including oatmeal, honey and lavender, offer gentle yet powerful options for protecting and soothing skin.
Oatmeal locks in moisture, eases inflammation and soothes irritation caused by sun exposure or sweat, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When finely ground into what is known as colloidal oatmeal, its efficacy is amplified, forming a protective barrier that hydrates and calms sensitive skin. Its popularity in creams, lotions and sunburn treatments stems from inherent anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
Honey serves as a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Recent research published in Pharmaceuticals indicates that products with higher concentrations of the sweet nectar provide improved skin hydration and reduced wrinkle depth. Floral honey, rich in natural sugars, is more effective at boosting moisture than
forest honey. Even with different variants or quantities, honey-infused products feel luxurious and gentle on the skin.
Rachel Sloan, a Chicago-based beekeeper and founder of Nature’s Trace Company, frequently incorporates ingredients from her garden and hives into small-batch, nature-inspired soaps designed for gentle cleansing and nourishment. She uses both raw honey and finely ground oatmeal in many of her soaps.
Renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, lavender essential oil is another popular ingredient. When diluted in a carrier oil, it may be effective in soothing minor burns due to its pain relieving and antimicrobial qualities. Julie Williams, a medical herbalist and founder of Leaf People, based in the Colorado Rockies, is drawn to lavender essential oil’s healing properties. It is a key ingredient in some of her products that offer fast, natural relief from sun-exposed skin.
According to both Williams and Sloan, when it comes to summer skin care, most people focus on protection—sunscreen, hats and long sleeves—but what often gets overlooked is replenishment. Even with the best preventative measures, exposure to sunlight can leave the skin depleted and vulnerable due to heat, ultraviolet rays and environmental stressors. It is essential to thoroughly rinse off not only sweat and sunscreen, but also the toxins released by the body through heat and exertion.
“Following that cleanse, replenishing the skin with antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamin E, vitamin C, green tea, ginkgo biloba or gotu kola helps restore what’s been lost and supports cellular recovery,” says Williams. “For those in persistently hot climates, cooling botanicals like rose, burdock root, cucumber and chamomile can soothe mild irritation and bring down surface heat. Incorporating these into your evening routine allows your skin to rest, regenerate and recover while you sleep.”
Taking care of our skin does not have to involve a complicated daily routine. “A lot of people stress out because they’re not sure if they’re using the right product or doing the right things; half the recommendations on social media conflict with each other,” says Williams. Instead of dwelling on product choices, she suggests that people find what works best for their skin and incorporate it into their daily routine, so that it becomes a constant, like other regular self-care activities.
“If you want to keep it simple in the summer, find one solid, hardworking bar that does it all: shampoo, body wash and exfoliant,” says Sloan. “Your summer skin protection routine should be focused on feeling clean, refreshed and nourished, without the fuss.”
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
Organic microgreen teas packed with antioxidants & flavor. Earthy or fruity—find your perfect cup. Just steep, sip & feel good. Pick your TEA-riffic tea!
Microgreen teas are gaining attention for their unique ability to reset and strengthen the immune system through dense, plant-based nutrition.
Harvested just days after germination, microgreens are young vegetables and herbs that offer up to 40 times the nutrient concentration of their mature counterparts. Studies show they contain exceptionally high levels of vitamins C, E and K, as well as potent antioxidants and phytonutrients such as carotenoids and polyphenols. These compounds play critical roles in reducing inflammation, enhancing immune signaling and supporting cellular repair.
Cruciferous microgreens—especially broccoli—are particularly rich in sulforaphane, a compound associated with detoxification and immune system modulation. Sulforaphane activates the Nrf2 pathway—a built-in system in the body that turns on protective genes to help reduce inflammation, fight off toxins and keep cells functioning well. This cellular defense mechanism helps the body
better manage oxidative stress, one of the key factors that can weaken the immune system.
When brewed as tea, microgreens deliver these nutrients in a warm, easily absorbed form that also supports hydration—a crucial yet often overlooked element of immune resilience. Unlike supplements or raw greens, microgreen teas offer a simple, comforting ritual that nourishes the body while engaging the senses.
Scientific literature also supports the use of tea-based compounds in immunity. Catechins found in green tea, particularly EGCG, have been linked to improved T-cell function and reduced viral load in clinical studies. Combining these compounds with dehydrated microgreens can offer synergistic effects: antioxidant activity,
inflammation reduction and enhanced immune readiness.
For those seeking a convenient and science-backed way to integrate microgreens into their daily wellness practice, MicrogreensECT offers a thoughtfully curated line of microgreen teas. Their blends prioritize nutrient preservation through freeze-drying and are designed to provide targeted support without unnecessary additives or artificial flavors.
MicrogreensECT operates exclusively online, making their teas accessible to individuals looking to fortify their immune health through food-based strategies. With a growing interest in natural wellness, their offerings provide a bridge between modern nutritional science and timeless herbal traditions.
Location: Palm Coast, FL. For more information or to place an order, call 904-377-8669 or visit MicrogreensECT.com. See ad page 25.
Wednesday, July 9
Meditative Drumming Hour – 6-7pm. With Elaine Charles. Reduce stress, promote emotional release, foster social connection, and enhance overall well-being through physical activity and rhythmic engagement. Free. Persephone Healing Arts Center, 485 6th Ave N, Jacksonville Beach. RSVP: 904-246-3583. DrPautz.com.
Thursday, July 10
Open House: Persephone Healing Arts Center – 6-7pm. Gives new and potential patients and their family members to meet Dr. Pautz and learn about the unique medical services offered at the center. Free. 485 6th Ave N, Jacksonville Beach. RSVP: 904-246-3583. DrPautz.com.
Saturday, July 12
Personal Vibration Seminar – 12-3pm. Join us for a powerful and transformative seminar on vibrational health, led by our own vibration intuit, Ted Skorman. We’re excited to welcome Jennifer Barnds, from the world-renowned Vesica Institute, as a special guest teacher. Learn how to test objects, materials, and more so you can accurately identify what supports your well-being and what may be detrimental. $100. Mehta, 1 Purlieu Pl, Winter Park. 321203-4688. Tinyurl.com/578dc8yt.
Thursday, July 18
A Decade of Radiance: Amethyst Wellness 10th Anniversary Celebration – 4 to 7 p.m. Join Amy Coopersmith, ARNP, and the Amethyst Wellness team for an uplifting evening celebrating 10 years of holistic health and aesthetic medicine. Guests will enjoy refreshments, raffles, exclusive giveaways and one-night-only specials on select services. Free. Amethyst Wellness, 50 Cypress Point Pkwy., Ste. B1 & B2, Palm Coast. 386-283-4180. Amethyst Wellness.com.
Wednesday, July 23
Open House: Persephone Healing Arts Center – 6-7pm. Gives new and potential patients and their family members to meet Dr. Pautz and learn about the unique medical services offered at the center. Free. 485 6th Ave N, Jacksonville Beach. RSVP: 904-246-3583. DrPautz.com.
Sunday, July 27
Sacred Stillness Experience: A Restorative Yoga & Sound Bath Journey – 2-4pm. Immerse in the healing frequencies of a live sound bath with crystal singing bowls, chimes, singing pyramids, Tibetan bowls, gong and other calming instruments.
Reiki energy healing offered throughout. $40. Laughing Lotus Yoga & Wellness, 208 Moody Blvd, Flagler Beach. 386-871-2504. LaughingLotusFB.com.
Free Online Programs – Practical Buddhism, Healing and Compassion Meditation, Group Practice, White Tara Guided Healing Meditation, Sunday Talks. Jewel Heart Tibetan Buddhist Learning Center: JewelHeart.org.
Thursday, July 18
A Decade of Radiance: Amethyst Wellness 10th Anniversary Celebration – 4 to 7 p.m. Join Amy Coopersmith, ARNP, and the Amethyst Wellness team for an uplifting evening celebrating 10 years of holistic health and aesthetic medicine. Guests will enjoy refreshments, raffles, exclusive giveaways and one-night-only specials on select services. Free. Amethyst Wellness, 50 Cypress Point Pkwy., Ste. B1 & B2, Palm Coast. 386283-4180. AmethystWellness.com.
Mobile Therapeutic Massage Services in Palm Coast – With Cheryl Debitetto. Offers an array of massage services, including Deep Tissue, Gentle Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release and Manual Lymphatic Drainage. To schedule an appt: 386-2643433 or MassageForWellness.info.
Purify Life 21-Day Purification Program – A holistic detox regimen designed to cleanse the body and promote long-term well-being. Comprehensive program combines dietary and lifestyle recommendations with natural detox supplements, offering participants the tools to adopt a sustainable, toxin-free lifestyle. For appt: 386-585-5637 or PurifyLife.org.
Private Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy Sessions – 10am-4pm. With Mikki Milligan. Experience deep relaxation and mental clarity on the state-of-the-art InHarmony Sound Lounge. This private session combines the power of music with Solfeggio frequencies, BrainTap blue light therapy, and Inharmony Sound Lounge vibrations to promote mind-body wellness. $60/30 mins, $100/60 mins. Keybi Hypnosis, 415 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 107, Port Orange. Register: 386-267-2122 or KeybiCoach.com.
Pregnancy, Childbirth, Postpartum, and Newborn Classes – 6-7pm. Virtual classes with engaging activities and visual aids on pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and newborn care. $35/class. ChildbirthClasses.com.
Farmers Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm-fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices, gourmet coffee and teas, honey, jams, salsas and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach. DaytonaFleaMarket.com.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp: Sunday Adult Lyceum – 9:30-10:15am. Anyone having the desire to learn more about the science, philosophy and religion of spiritualism may wish to attend. A different teacher each week will provide an instructive format in which one may learn the truths of spiritualism and other related subjects. Colby Memorial Temple, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. 386-228-2880. Cassadaga.org.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp: Sunday Church Service – 10:30am. Service consists of hymns, a guided meditation healing, a lecture by a different speaker each week, a musical interlude and messages. Colby Memorial Temple, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. 386-228-2880. Cassadaga.org.
Your Great Awakening: 7 Chakra Playshop – 10:30am-1:30pm. An interactive journey that explores each of the 7 chakras. Playshops are centered around awareness and connection to mind, body and spirit and emotion in relation to each chakra. $35. Soul Needs a Community Space, 216 N Wooldand Blvd, DeLand. 386-873-7707. JoeDrogo.com/workshops.
Men’s Group – 11am-1pm. 2nd Sun. This gathering offers a supportive space for men to connect, reflect and grow together. Through guided discussions and holistic techniques, gain tools for emotional balance, stress relief and overall well-being. $44. EneRay Temple of Healing, 3440 U.S.-1 S, St Augustine. 904-2170660. Tinyurl.com/mr4rjvf8.
Unitarian Universalist Service – 11am12pm. Join our welcoming, inclusive community to explore diverse beliefs, grow spiritually, and promote a world that affirms these aspirations. Community Unitarian Universalist Church. 403 West St, New Smyrna Beach. dbcuuc.org.
Senior Discount Day – 12-6pm. Seniors save 10% off all regularly priced items. Debbie’s Health Foods, 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City. 386-775-7002. Debbies HealthFoods.com.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp: Sunday Message Service – 12:30-1:30pm. A
message service where mediums and students demonstrate the continuity of life in a public setting. Several certified and student mediums work together to bring short messages from spirit to as many people as possible. Colby Memorial Temple, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. 386228-2880. Cassadaga.org.
Online: Yoga Therapy Certification Program – 1st Sun/Fri/Sat. Meets monthly: Fri (6-9pm), Sat & Sun (11am-7pm). IAYT Accredited Clinical Yoga Therapy Certification for yoga teachers to use yoga therapy for health improvement. Zoom. AumHomeShala.org.
Mondays
Energize Yoga – 7-7:30am. Mon-Thurs. Designed for the busy human. $42/6 classes. Zoom. 386-846-9255. Nur Yoga1018.com.
PiYo – 8:30-9:30am. Adynamic, low-impact fusion of Pilates and yoga that brings together the core-strengthening, sculpting principles of Pilates with the flexibility, balance and mindful flow of yoga. Laughing Lotus Yoga & Wellness, 208 Moody Blvd, Flagler Beach. 386-8712504. LaughingLotusFB.com.
Tuesdays
Rainbow Tuesday – Save 20% off regular price 1st Tues every month. Debbie’s Health Foods, 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City and 3850 S Nova Rd, Port Orange. DebbiesHealthFoods.com.
Healthy Movements: Tai Chi and Yoga Fusion – 10-11am. Use chair or mat. A unique fun class that focuses on yoga and tai chi movements. Enhancing balance, stability, strength, relaxation and mindfulness. With Annie Barreiro. $5. New Smyrna Beach Gym, 1000 Live Oak St, New Smyrna Beach. NurYoga1018.com.
Chair Yoga – 5:15-6:15pm. With Yana. A harmonious blend of gentle movements and deep stretches, from the comfort of your chair. $15. Soul Needs a Community Space, 216 N Wooldand Blvd, DeLand. 386873-7707. paypal.com/paypalme/soulneed.
Group Hypnosis for Transformation –5:30-6:30pm. Also Wed. With Mikki Milligan. Whether you’re seeking to overcome personal challenges, boost confidence, or enhance your well-being, this guided hypnosis experience is designed to facilitate profound change and personal growth. $20. Keybi Hypnosis, 415 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 107, Port Orange. Register: 386-2672122. KeybiCoach.com.
Nicotine Anonymous – 6-7pm. 12-step support group. Free. Cafeteria, Annex Conference Rm, AdventHealth Hospital Daytona Beach (Main Entrance). 301 Memorial Medical Pkwy, Daytona Beach. Nicotine-Anonymous.org.
Peaceful Mind in a Crazy Time – 6:30pm. Meditations and teachings to help us keep a balanced and peaceful mind in any situation. Teachings and meditations with Kadam Carol Lutker, resident Teacher of Maitreya Kadampa Buddhist Center, Jacksonville. $13. Laughing Lotus Flagler beach, 208 Moody Blvd, enter from 2nd St N, Flagler Beach. 386-793-3013. MeditationInJacksonville.org.
Psychic Development Class – 6:308:30pm. Enhance your psychic abilities with practical techniques and expert guidance. $11/wk. Harmony Haven Meditation, 3930 S Nova Rd, Port Orange. 386255-1120. HarmonyHaven.Life.
All-Level Belly Dance – 6:30-7:40pm. With Yana. Join our all-level belly dance class for a journey of authentic self-expression and self-love. $20. Soul Needs a Community Space, 216 N Woodland Blvd, Deland. 386873-7707. Tinyurl.com/yd9ypph4.
Let’s Talk Tarot – 7-9pm. 2nd Tues. With Laura Hampton. For anyone who wants to learn to read tarot cards, but also for anyone who wants to get a tarot reading. $20. Mystic Light Center, 2825 N Tenth St, Ste A-2, St. Augustine. 503-660-8610. Tinyurl.com/mr4ymd67.
Yoga Therapy for Life Changes, Trauma, Education – Learn, practice and retain with yoga therapy using mind, body and your inner resource. Hidden trauma in the body may reveal itself causing disease and dis-comfort. $60. Nur Health/ Nur Yoga, 208 Booth Rd, Ste D, Ormond Beach. 386-846-9255. NurYoga1018.com.
Energize Yoga – 7-7:30am. Mon-Thurs. Designed for the busy human. $42/6 classes. Zoom. 386-846-9255. NurYoga 1018.com.
Energy Tune-Ups – 12:30-1:30pm. A guided meditation designed to rebalance your chakras, reset your nervous system, and refocus your connection to inner wisdom. All levels. $44. EneRay Temple of Healing, 3440 S U.S. Hwy 1, Ste 202, St Augustine. 904-217-0660. EneRay.org.
Breathwork – 1pm. Learn the breathing technique. Practice deep breathwork and meditation. Relax, heal and enjoy the benefits. No previous training required. Free. Zoom. Tinyurl.com/26npmk9m.
Transformative Group Hypnosis – 5:306:30pm. Whether you’re seeking to overcome personal challenges, boost confidence, or enhance your well-being, this guided hypnosis experience is designed to facilitate profound change and personal growth. $20. Keybi Hypnosis, 415 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 107, Port Orange. Register: 386-267-2122. KeybiCoach.com.
Waveform Sound Sessions – 6-6:45pm. Weekly sound bath led by Intuitive Energy Practitioner, Marie, featuring live crystal singing bowls and chimes. $20. Hotel Cassadaga, 355 Cassadaga Rd, Cassadaga. HotelCassadaga.com/event/ waveform-sound-sessions.
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp: Wednesday Message Service – 7pm. A demonstration of Spirit Messages. Greetings from Spirit are delivered from mediums and student mediums to as many people as possible. $5 donation. Colby Memorial Temple, 1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga. 386228-2880. Cassadaga.org.
Oneness Wednesdays – 7:30-9pm. Find your happy place as we connect, ground, explore, have fun, heal and laugh. Building more strength, stability and security within ourselves from the inside out. $10 minimum donation. Soul Needs A Community Space, 216 N Wooldand Blvd, DeLand. 386-873-7707.
Ormond Beach Farmers Market – 8am1pm. Fresh produce, local honey, fine crafts and yummy treats. City Hall Plaza, 22 S Beach St, Ormond Beach. OrmondBeachMainStreet.com/farmers-market.
Senior Discount Day – 9am-7pm. Seniors save 10% off all regularly priced items. Debbie’s Health Foods, 862 Saxon Blvd, Orange City. 386-775-7002. Debbies HealthFoods.com.
Christina Phipps Foundation Yoga – 9:1510:45am. Kim teaches a live CPF Oncology Yoga. Free. AdventHealth Daytona Beach, 301 Memorial Medical Pkwy, Daytona Beach. 386-679-1496. ChristinaPhipps Foundation.com.
Bhagavad Gita Study – 10:30am-12pm. Be uplifted by study of the universal teachings of India’s most famous scripture, the Bhagavad-Gita, for inspired living, emotional clarity and spiritual fulfillment, ultimately leading to realization of our own highest Self and oneness with all creation. Led by Sw. Radhikananda. Donations accepted. Center for Spiritual Living, 1795 Old Moultrie Rd, St Augustine. cslstaugustine.org.
Canal Street Nights – 5-8:30pm. 3rd Thurs. Fun-filled evening with expanded streetside dining, vendors, kids’ zone and specialty food vendors. Canal Streetnsb.com.
Divine Healing – 6:30pm. 4th Thurs. Experience the presence and healing energies from Divine Love, God Source, Archangels and Masters as they envelope you within healing grace for the mind, body and soul. Suggested donation $11. 56 N Halifax Dr, Ormond Beach. AscendingConsciousness .square.site.
Heart-Centered Breathwork – 6:30-8pm. Be guided through conscious breathing techniques in the immersive energy of the EESystem, fostering emotional release and deep self-awareness. $44. EneRay Temple of Healing, 3440 S U.S. Hwy 1, Ste 202, St Augustine. 904-217-0660. EneRay.org.
Belly Dance – 7-8pm. Elevate your belly dancing performance with the vibrant sounds of finger cymbals. This specialized class is designed to teach belly dancers how to seamlessly integrate finger cymbals, also known as zills or sagat, into their routines. $20. Soul Needs a Community Space, 216 N Wooldand Blvd, DeLand. 386873-7707. paypal.com/paypalme/soulneed.
Farmers Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm-fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices, gourmet coffee and teas, honey, jams, salsas and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach. DaytonaFleaMarket.com.
Chair Yoga – 9:15-10:30am. Accessible and available for everyone. All ages. Beginner or advanced. Great for the sedentary worker, physical worker, student, retiree, or persons with limitations. Free, suggested donation $5. New Smyrna Beach Gym, 1000 Live Oak St, New Smyrna Beach. 386-846-9255. NurYoga1018.com.
First Friday Garden Walk – 10-11am. Join a ranger for a garden walk and learn the history of Washing Oaks while exploring the formal gardens. Washington Oaks, Palm Coast. FloridasHistoricCoast.com.
Aysana Meditation – 10:30am-12pm. Guided meditation for all. Relax and unlock the power of inner peace. $25/day of, $20/advance. Soul Needs a Community Space, 216 N Wooldand Blvd, DeLand. RSVP, Andreas 407-801-8803 or MyCoach Happy@gmail.com.
Legit Angel Tribe – 11:30am-1pm. A transformative gathering designed specifically for young, high-functioning adults on the autism spectrum. Fosters a safe and inclusive space to explore spirituality, deepen self-awareness, and build meaningful connections. Through guided activities and open dialogue, cultivate
social wellness, form lasting friendships, and celebrate personal growth. $20. EneRay Temple of Healing, 3440 U.S.-1 S, St Augustine. 904-217-0660. momence. com/s/108825419.
Ecstatic Dance – 8-9:30pm. 1st Fri. An improvisational meditative movement experience that starts in stillness, builds like a wave, and crashes into deep receptive rest. An opportunity to be present and embodied, to release stuck energy in the body, and potentially experience the bliss of life force energy flowing unobstructed as healing occurs. $22. EneRay Temple of Healing, 3440 U.S.-1 S, St Augustine. 904217-0660. momence.com/s/107543704.
Saturday Silent Sitting Meditation –9-10am. In-person or online. Meditation is the foundation of Buddhist practice, and we hope that you can take advantage of this opportunity for Shamata Meditation that can bring peace and tranquility to our lives. Free. Karma Thegsum Choling Jacksonville, 4168 Herschel St, Jacksonville. 904-357-0663. ktcjax.org.
Farmers Market and More – 9am-5pm. Shop rain or shine for farm-fresh produce, plants, trees flowers, herbs and spices, gourmet coffee and teas, and more. Daytona Flea Market, 1425 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach. DaytonaFleaMarket.com.
Original Strength Training – 9:15-10:15am. Natural Concepts Revisited is a retail store dedicated to health, wellness and sustainable practices. 142 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach. Natural ConceptsRevisited.com.
A Course in Miracles – 10:30am. Weekly reading and discussion of the lessons and text of A Course in Miracles. Donation. Unitarian Universalist Church, 403 West St, New Smyrna Beach. 386-308-8080.
Tai Chi Class – 10:45am-12pm. With Laurie Gomon-Ring. Natural Concepts Revisited, 142 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach. NaturalConcepts Revisited.com.
EAST COAST ACUPUNCTURE AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Lisa Sweeters, Acupuncture Physician 99 Old Kings Rd S, #4, Palm Coast 386-302-5363
EastCoastAcupunctureFL.com
Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine, additional TCM studies in Guang Zhou, China. Individualized holistic care for fertility issues including IVF, chronic & accute pain, digestive issues, anxiety, insomnia, prostatitis, sports injuries. Celluma Low-Level Light Therapy for arthritis, muscle & joint pain, acne, skin tone, edema. In-network provider for VA patients. See ad on page 13.
LORENZO PHAN, DOM, AP 725 W Granada Blvd, Ste 15, Ormond Beach 386-615-1203
Dr. Phan has great success in promoting fertility with acupuncture and herbal supplements. Non-surgical modalities for natural pain relief include acupuncture, trigger-point therapy, Chinese herbal remedies, cupping, neuromuscular therapy and cold laser for neck injuries, chronic lower back pain, sciatica, hip/ knee arthritis and migraines and more. MM20928. See ad on page 9.
BE WELL CHIROPRACTIC
515 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach 386-402-8997 • BeWellNSB.com
Drs. Wendy and Christian Edwards are dedicated to providing holistic patien-centered care. In addition to chiropractic, they offer Class IV laser Frequency Specific Micro-current, functional medicine, pregnancy care and pediatrics. Through specific testing they locate imbalances and recommend natural natural approaches. See ad on page 13.
BIG BOX OF ROCKS CRYSTAL SHOP
328 N 2nd St, Flagler Beach
407-212-5013
Facebook.com/BigBoxofRocks
Retail store offering beautiful crystals at affordable prices followed up with exceptional customer service to shoppers either in-store or from the comfort of their homes. Our Facebook Live show has become a welcoming community of friends. $5 OFF with this ad (purchase of $20 or more).
KEYBI HYPNOSIS
Mikki Milligan
415 Dunlawton Ave, Ste 107, Port Orange 386-267-2122
KeybiHypnosis.com
Mikki Milligan is a consulting hypnotist, certified life coach, and sound therapy practitioner in Port Orange, FL. She incorporates biohacking techniques to enhance and balance mental and physical well-being. Her authentic and personalized approach has guided many individuals to achieving personal and professional transformation.
HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH
David W. Edwards, DMD 541 N. Palmetto Ave, #101, Sanford 407-322-6143
HolisticDentalHealth.com
Since 2007, I specialize in Holistic (Biological), Cosmetic, Mercury-Free Family Dentistry and offer safe Amalgam Removal. Enjoy our relaxing view overlooking Lake Monroe in Sanford. See ad on page 17.
LOVE WHOLE FOODS CAFÉ & MARKET
• 275 Williamson Blvd, Ormond Beach 386-677-5236
• 1633 Taylor Rd, Port Orange 386-767-6543
LoveWholeFoods.com
Open Monday-Friday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 9am6pm and Sunday, 11am5pm with friendly, knowledgeable staff. Get involved in your community, shop local and support organics. Save more with our “Get Healthy, Get Rewarded” program.
NATURE’S GARDEN NATURAL HEALTH FOODS
2405 Enterprise Rd, Orange City 386-774-1222
Open Monday-Friday, 10am–6pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. Quality vitamins, minerals, herbs, body building and dietary supplements, personal care, children and pet products, essential oils, books and mail-order available. 20% discounts every day.
SPICE OF LIFE HERBS
214 Beresford Ave, DeLand 386-734-0035
SpiceOfLifeHerbs.net
Visit us Wednesdays-Saturdays, Noon-5pm., or shop onine Herbs by the ounce. teas, infusers, specialty collector teapots, and more. Essential oils and diffusers for home and auto, aromatherapy books and jewelry, soy candles in many sizes and scents. Visit and like SunSpirits Tea Room on Facebook. Serving wine, beer, tea and coffee.
LIST YOUR BIZ IN THIS WELLNESS DIRECTORY!
Text Now for Special Rates! 386-736-3838
ENERAY TEMPLE OF HEALING
3440 US-1 Ste 202, St. Augustine 904-217-0660
EneRay.org
Experience the transformative power of the Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) and scalar wave technology in a space dedicated to healing the mind, body, and spirit. We believe that when hearts come into coherence within a supportive community, profound individual and collective healing emerges, creating a brighter future for all.
SOLAR-FIT
1523 Ridgewood Ave, Holly Hill Volusia • 386-441-2299 Flagler • 386-445-7606
Solar-Fit.com
Relax and let the sun do the work for you. Solar-fitting your home or business is a smart, economical and environmentally sound investment. We offer a wide range of options to make your home more energy efficient. We are making America energy-independent one home at a time.
CASSADAGA SPIRITUALIST
CAMP & BOOKSTORE
1112 Stevens St, Cassadaga 386-228-2880
Cassadaga.org
Established in 1894, our community has mediums, healers, classes, workshops, tours and events year-round. Seekers are welcome and self-exploration is encouraged. Check out our large Spiritual Book & Gift store. More info on website. See ad on page 9.
LAUREE MORETTO
Soft Tissue Specialist
321-271-1678, Flagler & Daytona Beach LaureeMoretto.com
90% of pain is linked to structural misalignment. Your pain is really just a symptom. My work addresses the cause to give you lasting relief. Get your life back now. 25 years experience. MA20965.
FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY
June Drennon, CCT 2008 JuneDrennon@FloridaMedical Thermography.com 727-729-2711
FloridaMedicalThermography.com
Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.
NUR HEALTH
NORA ALY, 500 RYT
YOGA THERAPIST
208 Booth Rd, Ste D, Ormond Beach 386-846-9255 NurYoga1018.com
Yoga therapy eases the mind and body through breath, movement and meditation. Personal yoga therapy sessions available in office or online. Nur Health provides six, live, online yoga classes to keep you motivated and moving during the week. Check out the 30-minute, 7am live classes. Meet me at our Community Chair Class, free, donation only, in New Smyrna Beach Gym. Become at member and let's meet up at our Chair Recovery Yoga Class or Yoga Mat Class in Edgewater, New Smyrna Beach and Ormond Beach. Become a member and access the online classes and live classes, yoga how-to tips, events and videos.
LAUGHING LOTUS YOGA & WELLNESS
208 Moody Blvd, Flagler Beach 386-871-2504
LaughingLotusFB.com
Classes for every body and experience level. Welcoming, judgment-free space blends ancient yoga traditions with the soothing energy of the sea. Variety of packages and memberships, including Full Lotus Unlimited option. Every visit is a step toward inner peace, balance and joyful connection. See ad page 11.
OASIS INTEGRATIVE
Alanna Sockow
582 N Volusia Ave, Orange City
407-485-4349
OasisMassage-Therapy.com
A community based, conscious healing center. Offering massage, facials, herbal remedies, and Pranic healing. Also offering holistic plant based skincare, Green Envee, a natural skincare you can trust to clean, hydrate, and nourish your skin from the inside out.
PURIFY LIFE 21-DAY PURIFICATION PROGRAM
Sarah Stein, MTCM, L.Ac Sarah.Stein@PurifyLife.org 386-585-5637
PurifyLife.org
This is a 21-day wellness program that includes an initial Telehealth consultation, a detailed detox regimen, nutritional & lifestyle recommendations, and a 21-day supply of detox supplements. In addition, in-home TCM bodywork treatments and hair analysis are offered to powerfully support the detoxification process.