I identify with this month’s feature article, “The Burnout Reset: Whole-Body Recovery for the Season Ahead,” in that I’ve noticed my natural inclination in recent years to slow down as the weather cools and the days get shorter. I’d chalked this up to aging, so it is nice to learn another take: “Winter is an invitation to slow down,” according to Kari Liebowitz.
But more than just slowing down during the cooler months, I have craved slowing down, period (and maybe this is natural with age). Many of us have spent much of our lives getting an impossible number of tasks crossed off to-do lists at work and at home. Living a life of constant doing, and beating ourselves up for not getting everything done, takes a toll—and now it strikes me as madness. Looking back, I suspect this state of mind made me more reactionary to global and local events and feeling more frightened than empowered. So now I gravitate to the idea of balancing my demands with my resources, knowing that I’ll feel guilty, as it requires saying no sometimes. In fact, I just said no to a request, and I’ve been revisiting it for the last three days in a “How is this going to bite me in the end?” sort of way. While I don’t like thinking this way, I am happy to choose to say “no” and “yes” rather than feeling “no” isn’t an option.
I think it comes down to living life more mindfully, staying in the present moment, and being thankful for our many blessings. When we’re going for a walk, for example, we can be noticing birds chirping, the wind rustling in the trees, or deer crossing the road, instead of all the things we need to get done that day.
Wishing you a mindful and thankful month, Shannon
Sanctuary Imports to Host Yuletide Psychic Fair
Step into the magic of the season at a Yuletide Psychic Fair hosted by Sanctuary Imports from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on December 6. Attendees will experience mystical offerings, spiritual insights and winter solstice enchantment in celebrating the turning of the year.
Whether one is seeking clarity, healing or guidance for the year ahead, their talented practitioners will help in tapping into one’s higher self and embracing the energies of the season.
Their psychic fairs are first come, first served, so they recommend arriving at 11:30 a.m. to book sessions with chosen readers or energy workers. Sessions begin promptly at noon. Upon arrival, go to their sign-up table to choose practitioners and purchase sessions.
From looking for spiritual insight, energy healing or simply to celebrate the season, the Yuletide Psychic Fair has something for everyone.
Free admission; small fee for sessions. Location: 822 Lamar Ave., in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood, Charlotte. For more information, call 980-237-4780, visit SanctuaryImportsclt.com or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. See ad, page 9.
Discover Real Cannabis—Naturally
Apotheca cannabis dispensaries provide pure and natural cannabis products at more than 16 locations in the metro Charlotte area. From premium THCa flower and pre-rolls to edibles, seltzers, concentrates and topicals, they carry one of the widest selections in the Southeast. Their products come directly from the same cannabis that many know about, legally allowed under the 2018 Farm Bill. Apotheca, which has more than 50 locations in four states, relates that the only difference is in the label, not the plant. When properly understood, hemp-derived cannabis offers the very same cannabinoids—THC, CBD, CBN, CBG and more—that work together to deliver genuine, full-spectrum experiences.
The company attests that many of their products rival or even surpass those found in “recreational” states—without the high prices or red tape, and that every product is lab-tested, farm-bill compliant and selected for quality, safety and effect.
As the world of cannabinoids can be confusing, their knowledgeable staff makes education a high priority. They take the time to help customers find the right product for their needs, whether one is seeking rest, focus, balance or a natural way to unwind.
For more information on products and locations, visit Apotheca.org. See ad, page 3.
Kings Mountain Preserve’s Free Lunch and Learn Expands to Belmont
To make learning about its features and services even more accessible, Kings Mountain Preserve is broadening its Free Lunch and Learn program. In addition to the event that takes place on the third Thursday of each month at Trio Restaurant, in Charlotte, the same meeting is now also being held every first Thursday at the Honeycomb Café, in Belmont, North Carolina.
Attendees at both lunch settings can learn about the environmental and economic benefits of green burials provided by the facility.
Kings Mountain Preserve, the region’s only conservation green cemetery, has 55 acres and three miles of hiking trails as well as outdoor facilities including a pavilion, outdoor chapel and cabin with a fire pit. Clients and families often remark at the peaceful and comfortable landscape and environment.
Locations: Honeycomb Café, 31 North Main St., Belmont; Trio Restaurant, 10709 McMullen Creek Pkwy., Charlotte. For more information or to register (required) for events at either location, call 877-375-2495, email Amanda@KingsMountainPreserve.com or visit KingsMountainPreserve.com. See ad, page 14.
Sophia Offers Special Discount for Initial Intuitive Readings
Anna Sophia, a spiritual counselor, intuitive healer, guide, meditation coach and founder of Charlottebased Pure Sophia, specializes in helping people find their true purpose and achieve their greatest dreams. New clients can experience a powerful, 30-minute, intuitive phone reading with her for $75, a 65 percent discount off her regular fee, through January 2026.
Along with providing profound sensitivity in connecting the Spirit World with her clients’ higher selves and guiding them for making major life transformations, she also specializes in helping clients align major life events, whether personal or business-related, with divine timing as selecting the right date can make a significant difference in the outcome. With the support of Archangels, Sophia can bring clarity, confidence and purpose to life’s biggest decisions.
Since childhood, Sophia has effortlessly connected with the Spirit World and feels deeply blessed to guide others using this gift. Her practice blends breathwork, meditation, astrology and angelic guidance to help raise spiritual frequency and foster self-awareness. Certified in multiple healing modalities since 2004, she believes happiness, health and prosperity are everyone’s birthright. Sophia’s personalized sessions aim to heal, empower and align individuals with their highest path, always led by gratitude, devotion and universal wisdom.
For more information or to make an appointment (mention Natural Awakenings to receive the special discount), call 850-602-0526, email AnnaSophia10@comcast.net or visit PureSophia.com. See CRG, page 41.
The First of Faith Consciousness Three-Part Series: Now in Charlotte and Online
Dr. Leslie Wells, visionary bringer of Faith Consciousness—a growing global movement uniting science, scripture, and spirituality—shares a message that opens new ways of living, healing, and believing. She invites seekers and skeptics alike to explore a profound shift in perspective this month in the first event of the Faith Consciousness three-part experiential series.
Polarity Consciousness: Awakening the Divine Masculine is an interactive retreat inviting participants to experience how our earliest patterns of survival, control, and drive can be transformed into strength, clarity, and peace. Rather than seeing struggle as something to escape, Polarity Consciousness helps participants turn stress into fuel for positive change and life mastery.
Through groundbreaking teachings and energy recalibration by sound and guided breathwork, attendees will release tension from the body, quiet the mind, and engage their inner stability—what Dr. Leslie calls “embodied faith.”
The event is the first step in a larger journey exploring three stages of consciousness evolution:
Polarity Consciousness – where life happens to you, Christ Consciousness – where life happens for you and Faith Consciousness – where life happens through you
Polarity Consciousness: Awakening the Divine Masculine takes place on November 15 from 2–6 p.m. at HeartLight Spiritual Center, located at 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. in Charlotte. Cost: $140. For more information and to register, email info@FaithConsciousness.com or visit FaithConsciousness.com. See ad, page 10.
Anna Sophia
Discover Healing at Sacred Beginning s Psychotherapy
In the heart of our community, Sacred Beginning Psychotherapy, in Charlotte, is redefining holistic healing for women navigating life’s deeper layers. Founded and led by Liz Hudson, MA, LPA, MHt, a passionate therapist dedicated to integrative approaches, this practice blends psychotherapy and hypnotherapy to nurture mind, body and soul.
Specializing in modalities including inner child and shadow integration, somatic experiencing, breathwork, trance work and other transformative mind-body techniques, she guides clients to embrace profound self-awareness. Whether one is facing life transitions, unresolved traumas or a quest for inner peace, these sessions can empower to heal from within.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which may not uncover the unconscious, or techniques that might provide temporary relief, Hudson’s approach uniquely blends deeper work with psychotherapy and hypnotherapy for long-lasting change. This integration connects mind, body and soul, revealing and releasing stuck energy while guiding clients to reintegrate and reclaim their authentic self, ensuring a complete, transformative healing process.
Many women often find themselves at a crossroads—balancing careers, family and personal growth. At Sacred Beginnings, clients experience personal, heartfelt care that honors their unique journey, helping them reconnect with their authentic self.
Location: 1816 E. 7th St., Charlotte. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-774-6031 or visit SacredBeginningsPsychotherapy.com. See CRG, page 42.
Charlotte Energy Enhancement Makes Special Offer
Charlotte Energy Enhancement is providing a more affordable way for new clients to experience its widely hailed EESystem healing method. The first hour is free with a two-hour session; the regular cost is $75 per hour.
The clinically studied EESystem—made popular by interviews that went viral several years ago between Jason Shurka, inventor Sandra Rose Michael and Tony Robbins (who enthusiastically endorses it and installed a 24-unit system in his own home)—generates Scalar Energy or Zero Point Energy, a highly powerful energy that can create an ideal environment for the body to heal itself of disease.
The process safely promotes cell regeneration and natural detoxification, and shields against harmful electromagnetic frequencies. It helps stimulate cellular repair, improves immune function, reduces stress, relieves pain, supports detoxification and promotes deep states of relaxation and mental clarity. Users often report elevated moods, increased energy levels and a greater sense of peace and alignment. The center offers hourly, overnight sleep sessions and a pet section.
“There are people who are suffering and even dying, and the EESystem is a technology that can help them,” says Chuck Hipple, owner of Charlotte Energy Enhancement. “I really want people to know that some have experienced profound healing from cancer and many other diseases. My mission is to make Charlotte aware.”
Location: 1713 Cleveland Ave., Charlotte. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-334-5454 or visit CharlotteEnergyEnhancement.com. See ad, page 24.
Liz Hudson
Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.
—Hermann Hesse
Purefico MedSpa & Therapy Offers TruDOSE for Personalized Regenerative Care
by Randy Kambic
Purefico MedSpa & Therapy, with locations in Cornelius and Archdale, is one of the first providers in the Carolinas of TruDOSE, a cutting-edge method that can restore the body’s natural ability to heal by delivering personalized regenerative care that works. Already seeing extraordinary results from the treatment for chronic and complex conditions, the practice is offering $100 off initial consults and blood work for a limited time and are also available for information calls on TruDOSE throughout this month.
TruDOSE can be effective for treating chronic and systemic inflammation (the root cause of many chronic diseases); chronic infections like Lyme disease and Epstein-Barr; autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and POTS; neurological conditions such as autism, long Covid and migraines; joint degeneration and pain and chronic fatigue among other ailments.
TruDOSE uses our own blood to create a personalized platelet treatment designed specifically for each client to target inflammation, reset the immune system and activate the body’s natural healing process. Whether one is facing a chronic condition, recovering from illness or supporting a loved one, TruDOSE offers a science-backed path to real healing.
Precision and Standardization
TruDOSE guarantees accuracy of plateletrich plasma by using advanced technology to measure and balance the platelet concentration for the specific problem being treated. This precision ensures the ideal dosage for the patient which improves overall efficiency and healing.
Enhanced Healing and Results
The process allows for a higher quality of the platelet sample and supports fast and effective regeneration of damaged tissue. This approach can offer many benefits for a variety
of ailments which help patients achieve longlasting results.
Improved Purity
TruDOSE also focuses on removing impurities from the platelets before they are reintroduced into the body. This process helps to significantly enhance the outcome of the therapy and reduces risk of unwanted outcomes with less optimized methods.
Purefico Medspa & Therapy has been in the regenerative medicine space for nearly 15 years. Owner Melissa Lynch, MBA, FNP-C, has been using PRP treatments for over 10 years and is excited to offer TruDOSE at the practice to truly help patients get to the next level in their health and wellness journey.
Locations: 19401 Old Jetton Rd., Ste. 100, Cornelius, NC and 101 Bonnie Pl., Ste. H & I, Archdale, NC. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-655-2719, email info@Purefico.com or visit Purefico.com. See ad, page 13.
Healing Through Regulation of the Nervous System, Mind/Body/Spirit
by Martin Miron
Touch Light Chiropractic was founded by Dr. Ginni Gross in 2016 when she moved to the Charlotte area to be near family. Her dream has been to guide as many people as possible to better health and courageously step into the next best version of themselves through gentle chiropractic care and beyond.
Her credentials include a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Sherman College of Chiropractic, in Spartanburg; Level 3 certification in Network Spinal Care; developer of the BioEmotional Integration technique (liberating and integrating stuck emotions within the nervous system); Initiation into Level 4 Silvers Healing Modality (in-person and virtual modalities); certified in Torque Release Technique; member of and practitioner in the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association; and certified in Webster Technique (for pregnant women).
The practice provides state-of-the-art chiropractic care Network Spinal Care (NSC), Somato Respiratory Integration (SRI) classes, Torque Release Technique, Webster Technique, Silvers Healing Modality, pediatric care, red light therapy, homeopathics and supplements.
Gross shares, “Personal healing experience taught me the importance of addressing the mind and spirit, along with the body, as the way we think and feel emotionally/mentally affects our bodies. Our bodies speak to us in a language designed to get our attention, so that we may recognize the opportunity to look for the gifts that come with physical challenges and perhaps the changes we need to make in order to live a vibrant, peaceful life in congruency with our true self.”
She explains, “The Silvers Healing Modality is a quantum energy healing technique that has yielded what many describe as, ‘miraculous’, in that healing took place where healing seemed impossible. Network Spinal Care is the basis of all our treatment modalities. This is a gentle, holistic approach to chiropractic that helps your body and nervous system release tension, realign naturally and access higher levels of energy and awareness. Instead of forcing physical change, it works through precise touches along the spine that cue your brain to reorganize patterns of stress and defense.
“As your system becomes more connected and coherent, you experience greater ease, vitality and emotional resilience. Many people report improved posture, deeper breath, better sleep and a renewed sense of inner peace and possibility. Network Spinal Care isn’t about fixing what’s wrong, it’s about helping your body remember how to heal, grow and thrive from within.”
Aligned Wellness Workshops, open to the public, are designed to help people create a lifestyle that works for them, along with more in-depth information about the care available at 6:30 p.m. on November 10. Somato Respiratory Integration (SRI) class demonstrates breath techniques at 6:30 p.m. on November 20. Both are free of charge and held monthly.
Touch Light Chiropractic is located at 16405 Northcross Dr., Ste. D, in Huntersville. For appointments and more information, call 704-885-5770, email DrGinni@TouchLightChiro.com or visit TouchLightChiro.com. Gross explains network spinal care online at Tinyurl.com/NACLTGuestBlog. See ad, page 26.
Ginni Gross
Kate Lynn Imagery
Zodiac Signs Are Outdated
The ancient Babylonians believed the movements of the planets and stars were omens predicting the future, prompting them to track patterns in the night sky. They established the Western zodiac signs 2,500 years ago by naming the constellation behind the sun each day from Earth’s perspective. However, the constellations no longer align as they did 25 centuries ago. For instance, 2,000 years ago, September 16 was in Virgo, but today it is in Leo.
The Earth spins like a wobbling top, causing our view of the stars’ positions to shift by one degree every 72 years. Since Babylonian times, this has resulted in a nearly 35-degree change. Our current view of the constellations today will not be seen again for 2,600 years.
The Babylonians originally identified 17 zodiac constellations but reduced the number to 12 to match the number of months in their calendar year. However, the slices of the night sky are unequal. The sun spends twice as long in front of Virgo as in front of Cancer. This change also excluded Ophiuchus, which, when combined with Scorpio, only appears in front of the sun for a week. It may be time for astrologers to reconsider the zodiac signs.
Life Beyond Earth Is Highly Probable
Researchers from Durham University in England surveyed more than 1,000 scientists, both astrobiologists and non-astrobiologists, to assess their beliefs about the existence of basic, complex and intelligent life beyond Earth. Their findings were published in nature astronomy. Almost 87 percent of astrobiologists agreed or strongly agreed that at least basic extraterrestrial life likely exists in the universe, while less than 2 percent disagreed and 12 percent remained neutral. Similarly, more than 88 percent of other scientists concurred that other life forms exist.
These results align with mathematical reasoning. With an estimated 100 billion galaxies in the universe, each containing billions of stars, and our understanding of habitable planets and moons, the probability of no other life forms existing is less than one in a billion billion (1,000,000,000,000,000,000).
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Yoga’s Role in Preventing Memory Loss
Kundalini yoga focuses on personal growth and spiritual connection through movement, breathing, meditation and sound in the form of mantras or chants. A 2024 study in Translational Psychiatry examined its potential to help older women at risk for memory problems and dementia.
The study involved 63 women aged 50 and older that were experiencing early memory decline and increased dementia risk due to conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned to either a kundalini yoga group or a memory enhancement training (MET) group. The MET group performed verbal and visual memory-building exercises. All of the women met weekly with an instructor and practiced for 12 minutes daily at home over 12 weeks.
The yoga group reported greater improvements in how they felt about their memory. Gene testing showed beneficial changes in biological pathways linked to aging and inflammation in the yoga group, which were absent in the MET group. Additionally, levels of a harmful inflammation-related protein rose in the MET group but remained stable in the yoga group.
Brain scans of a subset of participants indicated that the yoga group experienced increased brain size linked to memory, as well as enhanced connectivity between memory-related brain regions, while the MET group showed shrinkage in these areas.
Meditation for Pain Relief
Researchers at the University of California San Diego and Dartmouth College used advanced brain imaging and artificial intelligence to study how various interventions influence the brain’s perception of pain. The 2025 study, published in Biological Psychiatry, analyzed data from two previous trials involving 115 healthy adults randomly assigned to one of four groups.
The mindfulness meditation group was taught breathwork and how to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. The sham-mindfulness group did not receive proper mindfulness instructions. The placebo cream group received a cream without active ingredients. The control group listened to an audiobook. Each group completed four, 20-minute sessions of their assigned activities, followed by brain scans while pain was applied to their leg.
The researchers discovered that mindfulness meditation significantly reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness more than the other groups. Brain scans revealed that mindfulness meditation decreased activity in neural patterns associated with both physical pain and emotional response to pain.
These findings suggest that mindfulness meditation reduces pain by directly altering sensory and emotional pain processing in the brain, whereas the placebo effect changes pain expectations. Further research is needed to confirm that mindfulness meditation can produce similar results for people with chronic pain.
FatCamera
Pesticides and Pregnancy Outcomes
Pesticides disrupt endocrine function, potentially interfering with reproductive health. A 2018 study in JAMA Internal Medicine investigated the impact of pesticide exposure on pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization and sperm injection.
The study included 325 women that completed diet assessments and underwent 541 ART cycles over 10 years. Researchers discovered that women consuming more than 2.3 servings daily of highpesticide-residue vegetables had an 18 percent lower chance of clinical pregnancy and a 26 percent lower chance of live birth compared to those eating fewer than one serving daily of the same vegetables.
Remarkably, women consuming more high-pesticide-residue vegetables had lower pregnancy and live birth chances than those eating fewer servings of any vegetables, highlighting the need to consider pesticide content in foods, not just their nutritional value, when trying to conceive.
Improving Indoor Air Quality Ways to Spot and Deal with Mold
As studies relate that we spend more than 90 percent of our time indoors, the quality of the air we breathe is a major factor in determining our health. Ailments and conditions including asthma, allergies, respiratory problems and weakened immune systems can be caused or exacerbated by mold. Knowing how and where it might grow and ways to deal with it are vitally important.
The best mold prevention strategies are to be diligent about any wet or damp areas from leaks that create an environment where mold will grow, which takes place in one to two days after the leak and continue until the area completely dries. Any more water or moisture will reactivate the mold. The source should be properly repaired to avoid chronic mold growth.
Much of the mold that’s not visible is caused by roof leaks, air conditioning condensation, drain clogs and condensation around windows and doors due to inadequate insulation and caulking. Checking such areas and systems is recommended.
Carpets made of wool, cotton or other natural materials are a food source for mold. Vacuum regularly and clean up any spills quickly and thoroughly. Bathroom mats should be washed regularly and entrance mats should be on the outside or made of non-organic material.
Adequate ventilation can thwart mold growth, so use fans in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, crawl spaces and basements. Regular inspection of these areas can catch mold growth early.
The condensate drain of a central heating or cooling system can get clogged and overflow, saturating the floor, walls and
nearby carpet. The unit itself and/or the ductwork could have mold and be circulating it throughout the home. Undergo regular maintenance and filter replacements; if there’s a leak, immediate clean-up and drying may require a restoration company. A certified mold specialist can inspect and recommend additional work which may entail duct cleaning.
Crawl spaces or basements should be regularly inspected. The outside grade should drain water away from the house and not create standing water next to the foundation. Check gutters and downspouts for proper removal of rain water. Make sure there’s adequate ventilation through foundation vents. If necessary, install some fans to circulate the air and dry out the moisture.
Daniel Smith is the president of Smith Environmental Solutions. For more information or to schedule an indoor air inspection, call 704-964-7681, email Daniel@SmithEnvironmentalSolutions.com or visit SmithEnvironmentalSolutions.com.
TorchBearer Tachyon Hosts Monthly Group Manifesting Events
TorchBearer Tachyon, based in Cornelius, will lead two group Manifesting Event Circles from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on November 30 and December 28 at Bright Haven Farm, in Huntersville, North Carolina. This is an ongoing event held on the last Sunday of each month. A total of 12 participants will experience the power of meditating with tachyon (meditating in a field of the “God Particles” under their double-stack pyramid tachyon field generator) and then adding the aligned experience of the group consciousness to amplify and accelerate the manifesting powers of each attendee.
For the first half hour, the group will connect in a circle—heart to heart and mind to mind—to share a little bit about their souls’ stories and what they are all manifesting. Then they’ll recline on yoga mats for a 30-minute guided group meditation with some quiet time to allow everyone’s own consciousness to explore all parts of the cosmos. A half-hour period of reconnecting to share highlights from everyone’s personal experiences will conclude the event.
Tachyons are source energy in particle form. They are tiny (subatomic) and they travel faster than the speed of light. Spending time in a tachyon-rich field helps the human body (cells, tissues, organs) hold more chi (prana, life-force, zero-point energy) which helps remove any blockages and harmonize our own life experiences on four levels—physical, mental, emotional and energetic. These group events are being offered to allow people to get a taste
of the tachyon experience for a fraction of the price. Additionally, each attendee will have the opportunity to leverage the power of the group to amplify and accelerate their own powers of manifestation. Further, all attendees will receive a limited-time deep discount to book their own personal one-hour experience at Charlotte’s first and only tachyon chamber, at TorchBearer Tachyon, in Cornelius.
Adrienne Craighead, the host of the events and owner of TorchBearer Tachyon, began her spiritual awakening at the age of 4, in Hawaii, when she realized she could talk to animals. Despite being raised in a small-town Southern Baptist Church, she expanded her views by taking a world religion class in college. Studying overseas to earn her masters degree in New Zealand connected her to the beauty of the Maori people, and their cultural and spiritual traditions expanded her horizons ever further.
TorchBearer Tachyon is a powerful portal for the world and serves clients from across the cosmos as remote sessions are as powerful as local experiences.
Tickets are $33 in advance and (if spots are still available) $40 at the door. Event location: 10020 Hambright Rd., Huntersville, NC. TorchBearer Tachyon Location: 19900
S. Main St., Unit 4, Ste. E, Cornelius NC. For more information or to register, scan the QR, call 980-689-1803 or visit TorchBearerTachyon.com. See CRG, page 39.
The Burnout Reset
Whole-Body
by Hannah Tytus
Recovery for the Season Ahead
It’s six o’clock in the evening, and the sun has already set. The body is whispering for a warm cup of tea and rest, yet the to-do list stretches on: emails and carpools, fundraisers and school practices, appointments and dinner still to be cooked. The desire for rest is overridden by our self-imposed need to get it all done. The colder season, however, brings an opportunity to shift how we see rest and productivity, inviting us to move in harmony with the cycles of nature.
“Our culture has fed us the myth that we can grow and achieve ceaselessly,” explains Kari Leibowitz, Ph.D., a psychologist, speaker, workshop facilitator and author of How to Winter. “The idea that this growth is linear and steady, with no breaks, is a myth and a fantasy. So much of the winter woes and the burnout of the season comes from a mismatch between our natural rhythms, our expectations and the demands of the world. Winter is an invitation to slow down.”
Lost Wisdom of Seasonal Living
As with every other living being, we are intimately connected to nature’s cycles. “We are animals, and we live on a planet. And almost every other living thing on this planet changes its behavior with the seasons,” observes Leibowitz. “Because we have electricity, artificial light and calendars, we have deluded ourselves into thinking that we can—and should—maintain the same routines and productivity levels year-round.”
This spirit of connectedness is echoed by Shamini Jain, Ph.D., adjunct professor at the University of California San Diego, founder of the Consciousness and Healing Initiative, and author of Healing Ourselves: Biofield Science and the Future of Health. “When we own that we’re part of a universe that has its ebbs and flows, we pay attention to the seasons,” she notes, adding that Indigenous medicine and wisdom have long honored natural cycles, seeking to answer
the same question we ask ourselves today: “How can I show up and be most efficient in my service?”
This ancient orientation toward seasonal rhythms is not just a philosophical concept. Anthropological studies suggest that our ancestors likely slept more in the cooler months, falling asleep soon after sunset and rising before dawn. They got the most sunlight in the morning, aligning their body’s cycles with temperature and light cues provided by nature. Contrast this with modern life, where we stay active well after dark, are exposed to sleep-disrupting blue light, wake with alarms and regulate our environment with thermostats that erase natural temperature shifts. By structuring our lives around modern demands, we resist nature’s rhythms. The result, says Jain, is chronic stress, fatigue and burnout.
Modern Stressors
As autumn transitions into winter and the holidays approach, many of us face greater demands to cook, shop, perform, travel or coordinate complex schedules, yet our resources of time and energy remain the same—or even ebb—as daylight hours shorten and our bodies naturally slow down and produce less vitamin D because of a decrease in sunlight exposure.
“Whenever demands exceed resources, we become stressed,” says Dr. Sharon Grossman, physician and author of The Burnout
Solution. Chronic stress has a cumulative effect on our bodies, causing what is known as an allostatic overload, which, according to Yale Medicine, can lead to emotional exhaustion, cynicism, detachment, reduced creativity, brain fog, disrupted sleep, physical aches and pains, or even social withdrawal.
Improving Our Mindset
“We often think of stress as a thing that lives ‘out there’, but stress is actually an internal perception that we have. It’s not always about the circumstances themselves; it’s about what you’re telling yourself about the circumstances that creates the stress,” explains Grossman.
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A 2016 study in Anxiety, Stress, & Coping examined the effects of altering our perspective on stress. Participants were encouraged to see it as a potential source of energy and resilience, rather than harmful. Those that applied this change in mindset reported better moods, enhanced cognitive performance and healthier physiological responses during a stressful task.
Try this psychological exploration: Identify limiting beliefs by journaling about the specific fears and guilt that come with saying “no” to a request for help. Next time someone asks for something, politely decline and observe the outcome. Check if expectations of conflict or hurt were unfounded. This approach challenges limiting assumptions and helps us set healthier boundaries, thereby reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
We often have countless ideas about how we should behave, and many of these beliefs hold us back. Grossman emphasizes that every “yes” adds to our demands. “If you’re going to say ‘yes’, understand why you’re saying it,” Grossman cautions. “It should serve a purpose, because our resources are limited.” In practical terms, we have to either lower the demands we accept or increase our resources, such as time or support, to meet them.
For Leibowitz, setting boundaries becomes easier when guided by values. If we want Thanksgiving to feel lighthearted and memorable, that might mean skipping elaborate dishes, accepting a less-than-perfect home and prioritizing rest so we can be present and joyful.
When a new request comes in, pause and reflect on how it aligns with personal values. Consider whether we are acting out of pressure. Release such commitments to make room for a new, betteraligned invitation.
Dean
Breathing Out the Stress
Simple breathing practices can profoundly calm the nervous system. “The point is to breathe—nice inhales, long exhales—and in letting out a long exhale, make a sigh of relief,” Jain advises, suggesting that sounds like “ooo” or “ahh” during exhalation enhance emotional release.
Just five minutes of intentional breathing can make a measurable difference. Studies have demonstrated that longer exhales stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the rest-anddigest system, while calming the fight-orflight response. This reduces heart rate and blood pressure and signals the brain to relax.
Try this breathing exercise: Sit or recline comfortably. Inhale gently through the nose, then exhale through the mouth, allowing sound to escape—this can be a sigh, a groan or a vowel tone. With each round, allow the exhale to lengthen naturally, releasing tension.
Transformative Singing
According to Jain, “Singing, whether by yourself or in groups, helps harmonize the body’s rhythms, decreases inflammation and activates the nervous system’s rest-and-digest response.” A 2016 study by London researchers, published in ecancermedicalscience, demonstrated that just one hour of group singing reduced stress and improved mood, with saliva tests indicating lower levels of cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone) and changes in immune markers associated with resilience.
Bringing the benefits of song can be as simple as singing or humming a tune while washing dishes, showering or driving to work. Knowing the lyrics isn’t necessary; the vibrations alone create a positive resonance in the body.
Nature Therapy
Every breath we take is a dance between humans and plants. The oxygen they expel fuels us, and our exhaled carbon dioxide sustains them. This exchange is part of the
deep bioelectric communication connecting us to the natural world.
“Fresh air, movement and connecting with nature are all natural antidepressants. Even a few minutes outside can be a powerful way to shift your experience,” says Leibowitz. A 2016 review of 52 Japanese studies found that spending time in nature measurably relaxes the body. Being around
forests, plants or green spaces calms the nervous system, improves brain function, balances hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Try this outdoor palliative: Find a patch of earth and stand barefoot. With eyes closed, imagine releasing the day’s energies down into the ground. After a few breaths, visualize energy flowing back up, reinvigorating the body.
Calming Movement
Mind-body-spirit practices offer powerful ways to find inner serenity. “They are effective in harmonizing the nervous system, reducing inflammation and opening our connection with heaven and Earth,” asserts Jain. Tai chi and qigong, which blend flowing movements with focused attention, breath and relaxation, have been shown in studies to pacify the overactive sympathetic nervous system and promote deep relaxation. Yoga offers similar effects. A 2020 review of 12 studies with nearly 675 healthy adults found consistent reductions in perceived stress, confirming yoga’s power to ease everyday tension.
Practicing these modalities under the guidance of a professional helps reduce risk of injury. Look for a tai chi, qigong or gentle yoga class in the community. Many studios offer a free first class or sessions in a local park.
Rest as Wisdom
In a culture that glorifies hustle, reclaiming rest is an act of healing. Jain asserts, “We can move through the winter of our mind and body, allowing it to deeply rest so that when spring comes, we can move forward with more energy—for the right things, as opposed to everything.” Nature offers a model for this wisdom. Although
"We are animals, and we live on a planet. And almost every other living thing on this planet changes its behavior with the seasons."
—Kari Leibowitz, Ph.D.
the natural world seems to be still in winter, vital work occurs beneath the surface. Just as fruit trees need a cold dormancy period to bloom again, we also require periods of quiet renewal. Our cycles of stillness are as essential to growth, creativity and productivity as our cycles of action.
Rest is more than sleep; it is a way of tuning in. “When we slow down, it’s not just about regeneration,” explains Jain. “It’s about listening to the body’s wisdom, slowing down enough to access deeper intuitions and guidance about our next steps.” Our cycles of rest serve as a teacher. By slowing down, we gain the wisdom, focus and resilience to fully embrace a life renewed.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health.
Alina Matveycheva from
turkey slices in the afternoon. For an evening boost, she recommends “something light and protein-forward like half a cup of cottage cheese with cinnamon and berries.”
Stoppa supports high-quality protein and naturally low-glycemic index foods like wild blueberries, blackberries and chickpeas, which provide polyphenols and saponins that slow glucose absorption.
Herbal Help
Ribaudo emphasizes that blood sugar-supportive herbs can smooth out fluctuations. “Using herbs for blood sugar balance doesn’t have to be complicated. A little cinnamon can be stirred into oatmeal, blended into a smoothie or sprinkled into roasted vegetables or
beans. Fenugreek seeds work beautifully in soups, curries and lentil dishes, while moringa leaf powder blends smoothly into salad dressings, sauces or soups.”
Ribaudo also recommends Gymnema sylvestre tincture for pancreatic support and long-term glucose balance, making sugary foods less tempting. Stress-reducing holy basil (tulsi) tea is beneficial during afternoon slumps. She stresses the importance of consulting a professional, especially for those on blood sugarlowering medications or prone to hypoglycemic dips, as effects can accumulate.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowersAndWoodSmoke.com.
VELVETY SWEET POTATO BISQUE
YIELD: 2 TO 3 SERVINGS
5 medium-sized, organic sweet potatoes
3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1 13.5-oz can unsweetened Thai coconut milk, well-stirred before use
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp regular or vegan ghee
1 to 2 tsp Grade-A maple syrup or increase coconut sugar, below
1 tsp coconut sugar (2 to 3 tsp if omitting maple syrup)
¼ tsp powdered cinnamon ¼ tsp powdered ginger
½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp salt
OPTIONAL TOPPING
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Smoked salt, to taste
Coconut sugar, a sprinkle to taste
½ tsp curry powder
½ cup raw pumpkin seeds
Chop sweet potatoes into 2-inch chunks and add to a mediumsize pot; cover with broth. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, approximately 15 minutes.
Place the cooked sweet potatoes, hot broth, half a can of coconut milk and all other ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour the sweet potato bisque into bowls until half full. Spoon a tablespoon of coconut milk in a swirling pattern into the soup. Serve immediately.
For the optional pumpkin seed topping, heat olive oil in a pan with the smoked salt, coconut sugar and curry powder. Add pumpkin seeds to the hot pan and toss around until they are browned but not burned. Remove from heat and sprinkle a tablespoon or more of the toasted seeds on top of the sweet potato bisque.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
ASIAN SALMON POWER BOWL
This delicious, nutrient-dense meal is packed with healthy fats, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
4 oz salmon
½ cup whole grain brown rice
½ cup edamame
½ cup carrots, shredded
½ cup cabbage or bok choy, shredded
½ Tbsp sesame seeds
1 Tbsp coconut liquid aminos
1 Tbsp rice vinegar
1 Tbsp scallions, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Cook the rice according to package instructions. Steam and shell the edamame. Sauté the cabbage or bok choy, if using. Grill the salmon and season to taste.
Layer cooked rice, edamame, carrot and cabbage or bok choy in a bowl. Add salmon.
Whisk coconut aminos and rice vinegar together then pour over the contents of the bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Top with scallions and cilantro.
Recipe courtesy of Jacqui Garrison.
OVERNIGHT CINNAMON DATE OATS
This is a perfect late-autumn breakfast or snack with protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
YIELD: 1 SERVING
½ cup organic rolled oats
1 Tbsp ground flaxseeds
¼ cup organic, unsweetened peanut, almond or sunflower butter
1 to 2 Medjool dates, finely chopped
¾ cup unsweetened coconut, almond or soy milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp powdered Ceylon cinnamon
Place all ingredients in a bowl or Mason jar and stir well. Store overnight in the refrigerator for cold oats or on the counter for room-temperature oats in the morning.
Recipe courtesy of Marlaina Donato.
GenAI/CanvaPro
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE
YIELD: 1 SERVING
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 scoop collagen powder
2 Tbsp basil seeds
½ cup water
½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
¼ cup frozen mango
¼ cup frozen pineapple
1 cup frozen greens
½ cup cauliflower, riced
Combine all ingredients in a blender and whip until smooth.
Recipe courtesy of Jacqui Garrison.
Patrick Hanaway
on The Healer’s Journey
by Sandra Yeyati
Patrick Hanaway is a functional medicine family physician and educator. For more than 25 years, he has maintained a clinical practice with his wife, Dr. Lisa Lichtig, in Western North Carolina. He is board-certified in family medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Practice, as well as the American College of Nutrition.
After serving as chief medical officer at Genova Diagnostics for 10 years, Hanaway became the chief medical education officer at The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) in 2013, where he oversaw the development and implementation of IFM programs worldwide. In 2014, Hanaway helped establish the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, where he was the founding medical director and later research director.
Hanaway has been initiated as a Mara’akame (traditional healer) by the Huichol people of the Sierra Madres, in Mexico. He holds community fires, leads ceremonies and offers traditional healing sessions around the fire. He serves as the board chair of the Blue Deer Center, in the Catskill mountains of New York.
One of Hanaway’s newest roles is as chief medical officer of KnoWEwell, P.B.C., a digital community that bridges the knowledge, access and insurance gaps to address the root causes of chronic disease, as well as the owner of the Natural Awakenings magazine franchise system.
How did you become interested in shamanism?
In 1999, I was introduced to a teacher working with the Huichol people in the western Sierra Madres, in Mexico. I was invited on a vision quest and later on pilgrimages to their sacred places, asking for help on my journey. In 2009, I was initiated as a traditional healer by the Huichol elders.
Since that time, I have been bringing more of my focus on helping individuals find balance by connecting to the whole world, to all the beings—human and non-humans—who are present, and listening and accepting the help we get from them.
For me, the exclamation point came when I was diagnosed with stage 4 laryngeal cancer in 2018. As I integrated radiation, chemotherapy, diet and nutrition to optimize my health and well-being, I also listened to the cancer and what it was telling me about transformation and being able to ask for help and receiving help not only from my community and my family, but also from all the beings and gods in the world. It made a huge difference.
How do the insights appear in your shamanic practice?
It’s difficult to describe, but I’ll make an attempt. When I am really opening myself up to listening and I’m with a tree, I find that there’s not really a big difference between the tree and me. We’re all part of the same world. There’s almost a merging and knowing that all the beings on this planet are connected with each other. Feeling that connection changes the way I relate to the world and—this is the tricky part—it changes the way in which the world relates to me, because I’m deepening relationships.
Are you talking about relationships not just with people but with all beings, all of nature and all of everything? Yes, every being. That’s exactly right. They’re not things. Iain
Courtesy Patrick Hanaway
McGilchrist, the renowned neuropsychiatrist and author of The Matter With Things, says that if we make every aspect of the world a thing, we make it an object, and that means we’re actually apprehending them and using them as a resource for our advantage as human beings, rather than comprehending them to develop a relationship. If we’re working to be in relationship and recognize them as persons, non-human persons that have rights, that changes the nature of how we move in the world.
It’s a humbling experience for the western mind, isn’t it?
Very much so. During my cancer journey, one of the things that I found that made the biggest difference for me was spending time in nature. My stress levels decreased, and my heart rate variability improved significantly when I spent time in nature. It also helped me in the process of being able to listen to the cancer and learn what the cancer was trying to teach me. Cancer was there because something in my life was out of balance, and I needed to learn how to bring the right balance back to the system. I’m still working on that.
How did you cope with the emotions
of your cancer journey?
Within the uncertainty, there was an alive ness, like, wow, anything is possible. I have no idea what’s going to happen in the world or with my life and my body, and yet the uncertainty made me feel really vibrantly alive. Even though I remember that whole experience vividly, there are times now when I forget, and I need to remember my connection to all of life. I need to re member gratitude. I need to remember the aliveness in uncertainty and allow myself to connect to life through curiosity and won der and awe.
Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit TinyURL.com/Hanaway2CLT or scan the QR code.
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Tired but Wired
Rebalancing the Cortisol-Sleep Cycle
by Hannah Tytus
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, plays several important roles in human physiology. Produced by the adrenal glands, this multifunctional messenger operates on a 24-hour clock, peaking in the moments just before waking from sleep in the morning, slowly tapering off throughout the day and returning to low levels at night to support rest.
When in balance, cortisol helps regulate inflammation, blood pressure and blood glucose, allowing the body to adapt to life’s changing demands. This rhythm is intimately connected to the circadian rhythm, or sleep-wake cycle. But when sleep is irregular or stress becomes chronic, cortisol levels can fall out of sync—too high at night, too low in the morning or fluctuating unpredictably.
“Stress is neither good nor bad. It gets us out of bed in the morning. Cortisol is part of that natural rhythm,” says Dr. Sharon Grossman, a burnout recovery strategist and author of The Burnout Solution. “When cortisol becomes imbalanced, it can affect memory, sleep and even immune function. The key is to find the sweet spot.”
Shamini Jain, Ph.D., an adjunct professor at the University of California San Diego, founder and president of the Consciousness and Healing Initiative, and author of Healing Ourselves: Biofield Science and the Future of Health, explains, “If we have dysregulated cortisol
rhythms because we don’t have regular sleep, or we have too much stress and we’re not handling the origins of the stress, then we could create chronic inflammation in the body, and we could have mental health issues as a result.”
Restoring Evening Serenity and Morning Clarity
The seasons affect our circadian rhythm. The sleep-wake cycle becomes more stable in autumn and winter, with longer time spent in bed, slightly more total sleep time and higher daytime activity compared to warmer months. While cooler weather often encourages more rest, it can also intensify feelings of sluggishness if cortisol and sleep cycles are not aligned. Jain recommends these simple practices that help keep cortisol and circadian rhythm in balance, even as the seasons change.
• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking at the same times each day helps the body reset. Ayurvedic wisdom, the ancient science of life originating in India, recommends being asleep before 10 p.m. and rising before 6 a.m. to align with the body’s natural cycles.
• Create wind-down rituals. Just as children benefit from bedtime routines, adults can cue the body for rest through calming activities like reading, journaling or reflecting on the day’s positive aspects.
• Establish bedroom boundaries. Reserve the bedroom for sleep and intimacy and practice a digital detox in the evening to reduce stimulation. Avoiding blue light from screens before bed allows melatonin, a sleep hormone, to rise naturally. “But it’s not just about the light,” Jain points out. “It’s about the activation of the mind. Consider a book instead.”
• Add simple relaxation practices. A warm foot soak or shower before bed, deep breathing exercises or restorative yoga asanas like waterfall pose can prepare the body for rest.
• Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Supplementing with this inhibitory neurotransmitter may ease an overactive mind before bed.
• Beverage Swaps: Replacing late-day coffee with alternatives such as herbal tea, a mushroom-based latte or ginseng can reduce cortisol spikes that interfere with sleep.
• Herbal Allies: Adaptogens like ashwagandha help modulate cortisol levels, while calming herbs such as chamomile or passionflower promote relaxation and better sleep quality.
Incorporating these strategies can help synchronize cortisol rhythms and encourage deep, restorative sleep. As the days grow shorter and colder, honoring the body’s natural rhythm becomes even more important. Slow down, embrace rest, and work with the cycles of light and dark.
Hannah Tytus is an integrative health coach, researcher and content creator for KnoWEwell, P.B.C., as well as a former writer at the National Institutes of Health. Waterfall pose
• Curb caffeine. Limiting caffeine in general, and particularly after noon, can help ensure a more restorative sleep.
• Start the morning well. Exposure to natural sunlight shortly after waking can reset the circadian rhythm, prompting alertness and energy.
Inviting Sleep With Natural Ingredients
Certain supplements, herbs and lifestyle swaps can help calm the nervous system and prepare the body for restorative slumber.
• Magnesium Glycinate: This highly absorbable form of magnesium is gentle on the stomach and has been shown to improve both the quality and onset of sleep.
coka/Shutterstock
Mark Your Calendars
Overeaters Anonymous Weekly Meetings
Program of recovery from ompulsive overeating, food restricting, and other obsessive food behaviors using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of OA; fellowship and support.
Through a foundation of nonjudgement, forgiveness, and selfawareness, the Course illuminates the path to peace, joy, and love.
Sundays · 9:30am Unity of Charlotte 3200 Park Rd, Charlotte UnityOfCharlotte.org 704-565-9626
Green Burial Lunch and Learn
Join Kings Mountain Preserve for lunch and learn more about the environmental and economic benefits of green burials. Advanced registration required.
Nov 6, Dec 4 (1st Thurs of month) 11am · Free Honeycomb Cafe 31 N Main St, Belmont
Nov 30 (3rd Thurs of month) 11am · Free Trio Restaurant 10709 McMullen Creek Pkwy, Charlotte KingsMountainPreserve.com 877-375-2495
Political Impact Support Group
Political stress has become an unexpected source of anxiety, grief and relationship strain. Learn to set healthy boundaries, pause before reacting and focus on our shared humanity versus differences.
Nov 8-Jan 17 (every other Sat) · 9:3011am · $195 Creative Perspectives 1010 S Main St, Mount Holly info@CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com
Faith Consciousness Series Half-Day Retreat: Polarity Consciousness
Activate the masculine current of focus, structure, and directed energy that brings form into being- through drumming, breathwork, meditation, and energy practices. Restore clarity, direction and confidence for creating a purposeful, inspired life. Presented by Dr Leslie Wells. Advanced registration required.
Nov 15 · 2-6pm · $140
HeartLight Spiritual Center 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte FaithConsciousness.com
Healing Your Grieving Heart Therapeutic Book Club
Learn to live with loss while others are celebrating. Healing activities to express grief and mourn naturally and that help reduce the confusion, anxiety and huge personal void so that living can begin again..
Dec 4-Feb 19 (every other Thurs) 6:30-8pm · $225
Creative Perspectives
1010 S Main St, Mount Holly info@CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com CreativePerspectivesTherapy.com
Classifieds
Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $40 for up to the first 20 words and $1.50 per word thereafter. To place a classified, email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte. com. Deadline is the 9th of the month.
Home Services
MAJOR APPLIANCE REPAIR – high quality repair at reasonable rates, service all major brands, call/text 336-539-1766.
Jobs
PART TIME MAGAZINE Delivery – needed primarily for Mecklenburg County delivering Natural Awakenings magazine. Fuel-efficient/ Hybrid/EV vehicle preferred. Work 1-2 days per month, paid per stop. Must be available during business hours. Info: 704-499-3327.
Seeking Rental
PHYSICIAN TO SUBLET – Room with space for exam table, small desk and 2 chairs with convenient parking for part-time use. 704-561-1302.
Into a Business Turn Your Passion
Own Your Own Natural Awakenings Magazine!
Make a meaningful impact in your community by becoming the owner of a Natural Awakenings magazine.
Empower others with current, valuable insights and resources to enhance their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
As a franchise owner, you’ll inspire positive change, provide readers with tools for healthier living and connect local businesses with an audience eager for transformation.
Why Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine?
n Create a Healthier Community: Be the go-to resource for wellness and personal growth in your area.
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n Enjoy a Flexible Lifestyle: Work from home while pursuing a fulfilling, dynamic career.
What We Offer:
n A proven business model with low startup costs.
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Join a thriving network of passionate franchise owners reshaping the future of holistic health and wellness.
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Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
FIERY SAGE HEALING
11220 Elm Ln, Ste 200 910-444-1893
fsHealing@gmail.com
fsHealing.com
Feel your best naturally through the power of acupuncture. Ballantyne location includes Traditional and 5 Element Acupuncture, cupping, electronic stimulation, herbal medicine, nutrition support, sound therapy. Complimentary consultations. Insurance accepted, including Medicare Advantage C Plans.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Ashley Paraiso, a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, specializes in fertility, pain management, women’s health, and chronic conditions, promoting self-healing through Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Bodywork
BRITISH MASSAGE
2210 Coronation Blvd, Ste C 704-572-1310
BritishMassage.com
Originally from London, Jessica is highly intuitive, has a natural healing touch and loves to help people feel better physically and emotionally. Medical Reiki Master and offers Reiki classes. Book massage/reiki today.
Brain/Mental Health
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Rachel Crawford Oruko, MA, is a double board-certified art therapist and counselor supporting healing from trauma, grief, burnout, and reproductive challenges through compassionate, personcentered care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Karen McKinney, LCMHCA, holistic counselor specializing in trauma, PTSD, mood disorders, and crisis intervention, integrating body, mind, spirit, and nutritional psychology in her therapy approach. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Cannabis/CBD/Hemp
APOTHECA CANNABIS DISPENSARY 15 Charlotte Area Stores Apotheca.org
TORCHBEARER TACHYON
19900 S Main St, Cornelius Unit 4, Ste E · 980-689-1803
TorchBearerTachyon.com
Stop suffering and elevate your experience with a transcendent 45-minute tachyon therapy session tuned to target your specific chronic condition. Read our reviews and book your experience for optimal balance and alignment today.
Compulsive Eating/ Spiritual Recovery
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
Meetings throughout Charlotte Area
Piedmontintergroup.org
Shop trusted and tested cannabis, kratom and mushroom products in a welcoming environment. Edibles, flower, drinks, powders and other natural goods, and friendly, educated staff. No medical card required. $5 off in-store with coupon. See ad, page 3.
The Best in the �ueen City
Chiropractor
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Jeffrey Dunnigan, DC, brings over 20 years of experience combining chiropractic and acupuncture to treat pain, injuries, and restore balance through holistic, patientcentered care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Chronic & Difficult Cases
HAAS WELLNESS CENTER
3315 Springbank Ln, Ste 102
704-837-2420
HaasWellnessCenters.com
Specializing in chronic and difficult cases and holistic and wellness care. We identify and treat the root cause of your health issues. Call today for a free 15-minute consultation. See ad, page 4
Helping compulsive overeaters/ food restrictors find recovery through Twelve Steps, patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous. Free in-person and online meetings in Charlotte area provide fellowship, support and anonymity. Meetings open to everyone. Join us today.
Craniosacral Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Relieve stress and migraines, recover from trauma, restore palate deformation, address tinnitus, and improve sleep with IVY Integrative's craniosacral therapists. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Dentistry
GENTRY DENTAL
5950 Fairview Rd, Ste 16 704-554-1007
GentryDentalCharlotte.com
Providing the highest quality biological/holistic dental care with compassion and understanding. Modern, spa-like office, state-of-the-art equipment and individualized care and attention. In-office dental savings plan. Call today to schedule appointment.
Biologically minded family dental office offering 3D digital dentistry, preventative dentistry, safe mercury removal and sleep apnea screenings. In a relaxed and caring environment, all patients are given devoted time. Call the office today to request a new patient consultation. See ad, page 6.
Direct Primary Care
BENTON INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 16415 Northcross Dr, Ste B, Huntersville 972 NC-16 Bus, Stanley 704-775-6029 • BentonIntegrative.com
Affordable convenient direct primary care from a personalized holistic perspective. Thorough and efficient care with nutrition as the foundation. We want to get and keep you healthy. Schedule a new patient consult today. See ad, page 33.
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Supports a 360˚ from your yard to our facility and back again. Mecklenburg County upcycles your yard waste to create high-quality STA approved compost and beautiful mulch at a very affordable price See ad, page 27.
SUSTAINABLE INTERIOR DESIGN
Claudia Josephine Design
860-796-3415
ClaudiaJosephineDesign.com
Proving that sustainable, ecofriendly design can still be stylish, Claudia creates classic, functional, and beautiful interiors. Certified Green Accredited Professional. Specializing in new residential construction and full-service interior design.
EESystem
CHARLOTTE ENERGY ENHANCEMENT 1713 Cleveland Ave 704-334-5454
CharlotteEnergyEnhancement.com
Discover the remarkable power of scalar technology to safely promote cell regeneration and naturally detoxify, shield from harmful EMFs and create ideal environment for body to heal itself of disease. Charlotte’s only 24-Unit center. See ad, page 24.
When you enter the Scalar Health Enhancement Center, you enter a healing zone where the 5th Dimension isn't just a theory, it is a functioning reality! Call for appointment today.
See ad, page 4
Energy Healing
THE NEW YOU MIRACLE BAND
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Change your frequency, change your life. Our products have an integrated charged disc to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover.
Functional Medicine
BENTON INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 16415 Northcross Dr, Ste B, Huntersville 972 NC-16 Bus, Stanley 704-775-6029 • BentonIntegrative.com
The Carolina's only Integrative practice offering membership based Direct Primary Care and Functional Medicine wellness programs. Wellness programs are individualized to the patient and address the root cause of illness. See ad, page 33.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Marissa Boyd, a naturopathic doctor, hydrotherapist, and craniosacral therapist, blends science with natural therapies to support men’s health, stress, and gut issues—meeting patients where they are with empathy and expertise. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Yelena Okhotin, a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, and craniosacral therapist, specializes in women’s health, stress management, hormones, and pain relief using holistic practices. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Address the root cause of neurological issues and optimize overall brain & body health at Charlotte’s Human Optimization Center. Non-invasive diagnostics and safe and effective treatments. Wellness memberships available. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 31.
Chiropractic neurology facility that is dedicated to helping patients with complex neurological conditions such as dysautonomia, migraine, dizziness, movement disorders, concussions and neurodevelopmental disorders. Schedule your $50 consult today. See ad, page 25.
MASTER NEUROHEALTH
1701 First Baxter Crossing, Ste 201F Fort Mill, SC · 803-992-2473
DrMichaelMaster.Health
Compassionate, caring, Carricktrained chiropractic neurologist with 25+ year’s experience, including functional neurology and child neurodevelopment credentials. Holistically attending children and adults with complex health conditions without use of drugs or surgery. Schedule your consult today. See ad, page 23.
Gardening
AMERICAN BEAUTY GARDEN CENTER
4400 E Independence Blvd
704-334-8651
ABGardenCenter.com
Charlotte’s organic gardening supply store for over 17 years. Knowledgeable staff that answers your questions and makes recommendations. Natural/ organic products, hydroponic solutions, greenhouses, grow lights, and more. Visit us today.
Herbal Medicine
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Chelsea Birch, naturopathic doctor and registered herbalist, formulates personalized botanical medicine to empower those with chronic conditions seeking effective, natural, and alternative healing solutions. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Holistic Wellness Care
PRIMARY HEALTH-CARE OF CHARLOTTE, P.A
508 Beatties Ford Rd
704-347-1172 • GetWellnessCare.com
Serving Charlotte for 39 years with continuous low-cost holistic health care for uninsured and under insured. Physicals, first aid, TB and other tests. Certified by NC Board of Medical Examiners and NC Board of Nursing. By appointment.
Hormone Health
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Stephanie Hendershot is a functional naturopathic doctor that blends modern science with natural medicine to treat hormones, digestion, skin, and fertility—empowering patients to heal from the root. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Hydrotherapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Marissa Boyd integrates a therapeutic use of water that dates back thousands of years to gently and effectively address digestion, chronic pain, detoxification, and immune support. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Hyperbaric Therapy
NIRVANA HYPERBARIC INSTITUTE
146 Medical Park Rd, Ste 110 Mooresville • 704-471-4100
NirvanaHBO.com
Dedicated to healing, forwarding the science of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and providing patients a tranquil place to heal. Highly effective in treating many conditions, some covered by insurance. See ad, page 21.
Integrative Healer
KATIE SUTTON
Intuitive Channel, Guided Meditation Coach
828-246-3335
ZenWithinAcademy.com
Katie synthesizes a unique blend of healing modalities with selfactivation techniques–from sound and vibrational therapy, to intuitive channeling, to guided meditation–in order to deliver healings tailored to each person's needs.
Intuitive Advisor
SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, HEALER & MEDITATION COACH
Anna Sophia 850-602-0526
PureSophia.com
Anna offers guidance on ideal dates for marriage, promotions, and major life choices. Enhance your health and happiness with Archangels support and personalized meditations tailored to your needs. Discover peace and purpose with Anna.
Intuitive Healer/Advisor
INTUITIVE CHANNEL & HEALER
DavidHarrisSpirituality@gmail.com 704-577-8977
DavidHarrisSpirituality.com
David offers clear, channeled guidance and healing energy— through spoken messages, Akashic Records insight, and healing light language—to facilitate deep healing, release blocks, and help you find clarity and align with your highest self.
Lifestyle Optimization
IVY INTEGRATIVE 1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Katherine Lanning, OTD, OTR/L, occupational therapist helping individuals with chronic health concerns optimize routines, habits, and environments for better health and life satisfaction. Mindfulness, functional goal setting for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, chronic pain. See ad, page 2.
Massage Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Unwind with Chey Nichols, LMBT — IVY Integrative’s renowned massage therapist — offering cupping, Swedish, deep tissue, and athletic therapies. À la carte options, packages, and memberships available. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
MetaPhysician
KOKAYI HEALTH SERVICES
726 East Blvd, 2nd Floor
310-713-5764
KokayiHealth.com
The MetaPhysician- Yale trained MD combining cutting edge medical therapies with the wisdom of traditional medicine. Extraordinary holistic, integrative medical care, supporting optimal health and effective treatment alternatives. 38 Years Holistic Primary Care. See ad, page 35.
Naturopathic Doctor
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228
704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Caitlan Readhead, a licensed naturopathic doctor, specializes in treating tick-borne illnesses, mold toxicity, chronic fatigue, and underlying viruses naturally. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com
IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Kellyann Tomko, a naturopathic doctor and health coach, specializes in metabolic health, gut health, menopause, cognitive health, and holistic approaches to chronic conditions and wellness. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today See ad, page 2.
Nutrition
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Elena DiPerri, CNS, combines science and compassion to help clients balance hormones, boost energy, and improve metabolic health through personalized, sustainable nutrition and Bowen therapy. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Ozone Therapy
PUREFICO MEDSPA & THERAPY
19401 Old Jetton Rd, Ste 100 Cornelius · 704-655-2719
Purefico.com
Full line of noninvasive wellness/ beauty services including only
local provider of cutting edge Eboo Ozone IV Therapy system. Treats autoimmune disorders, infections, viruses, chronic fatigue, Lyme disease and more. Call and mention Natural Awakenings discount. See ad, page 13.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE
1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Mièka Bryan, DPT, specializes in pelvic floor therapy, empowering patients of all ages to overcome pain, dysfunction, and restore wellness through expert, compassionate care. A la carte, packages, memberships. Book a free consult today. See ad, page 2.
Physical Therapy
IVY INTEGRATIVE 1520 South Blvd, Ste 228 704-569-5489
info@IVYIntegrative.com IVYIntegrative.com
Dr. Sarah Kingsley, PT, DPT, combines physical therapy, myofascial release, Bowen Therapy, and yoga to help clients of all ages relieve chronic pain, reset the nervous system, and reconnect with their bodies for lasting wellness. See ad, page 2.
Psychic
PSYCHIC MEDIUM KELLE
4371 Charlotte Hwy, Ste 22, Clover, SC 978-420-8213 ·PsychicMediumKelle.com
PsychicMedium@verizon.net
Psychic medium +18 years, author and radio show host. Private readings, psychic investigator on missing person cases. Helps those at a crossroads, experiencing unresolved issues or dealing with loss. Call for appointment today.
Psychotherapy/ Hypnotherapy
SACRED BEGINNINGS PSYCHOTHERAPY
1816 East 7th Street
704-774-6031
SacredBeginningsPsychotherapy.com
Liz Hudson, LPA, MHt, holistic psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, specializing in transformative modalities to uproot, release and re-integrate. Blends integrative psychotherapy and hypnotherapy, breathwork, somatic healing, subconscious/ trance work and mind body approaches. Schedule your appointment today.
Regenerative Medicine
NEOGENIX
16147 Lancaster Hwy, Ste 140 19475 Old Jetton Rd, Ste 102, Cornelius 704-727-6551
NeoGenixStemCells.com
All natural, non-surgical treatments for joint, muscle, tendon and ligament pain performed by experienced, board-certified medical doctors 100% dedicated to stem cell and PRP treatments. Schedule your free consultation today. See ad, page 5.
Retreat
SACRED GROVE RETREAT
15750 Collie Rd, Gold Hill, NC 704-299-5124
SacredGroveRetreat.com
Soul-nourishing sanctuary nestled in nature, offering transformational experiences, healing energy, a vortex, a labyrinth, and starlit skies— where clarity dawns and miracles take root. Available for personal stays and organized retreats. Reserve your visit today.
Scalar Energy
SCALAR FREQUENCY HEALING
704-490-5483
CS@ScalarFrequencyHealing.com
ScalarFrequencyHealing.com
Scalar energy wellness and spiritual awareness aids. Simple, practical, inexpensive, and imprinted with targeted scalar frequencies to help the body repair itself or work with your consciousness. Free shipping. 15% discount with NAM522. See ad, page 4.
Sound &Vibrational Therapy
SPIRIT AND SOUND
Barbara Griggs, LSH, CVSMT
Barb.griggs04@gmail.com
704-603-7759
SpiritandSound.net
Sound and vibration, primary elements of creation. Clear and balance your mind, spirit and body through vibrations of tuning forks. Licensed spiritual healer, intuitive and Certified Vibrational Sound Master Teacher. Call for free consultation.
Spiritual Centers
AWAKEN SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY
7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte Info@AwakeningCarolina.org AwakeningCarolina.org
Awaken is not your average church—we teach ancient spiritual truth, including biblical wisdom, through the empowering lens of Science of Mind and New Thought. Come as you are. Leave empowered, inspired and awakened.
HEARTLIGHT SPIRITUAL CENTER
Rev David Hulse, Spiritual Guide 7300 Mallard Creek Rd 704-669-7300 HeartLightCharlotte.org
We are a spirit-guided, heartcentered Christ-conscious, loving family providing an empowering, universal, Christ-centered message grounded in the teachings of metaphysics. Meditation 10:30am. Sunday service 11am. Email Shine@HeartLightCharlotte.org.
UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP OF L AKE NORMAN
Quaker Meeting House
625 South St, Davidson UULakeNorman.org
980-689-0630
We are a welcoming, inclusive spiritual community, united in worship, friendship, and social action. All are welcome to visit and connect. Sundays at 3pm.
UNITY OF CHARLOTTE
3200 Park Rd
Sundays at 11am UnityofCharlotte.org
Vibrant, inclusive Sunday Celebration at 11am, led by co-ministers Revs Lisa and Jim. Inspiring messages/ upbeat music support your spiritual growth, well-being, and abundant living. Shared space with St. Luke’s Lutheran Church on Park Rd.
Integrative healing combining Thai massage, sound therapy, energy work, and stress reduction coaching. Transform anxiety into calm through personalized sessions and sustainable wellness practices. Charlotte's Oakhurst neighborhood. Book your appointment today. See ad, page 9.
Sustainability
SUSTAIN CHARLOTTE
SustainCharlotte.org
A nonprofit organization working to inspire choices that lead to healthy, equitable and vibrant communities across the Charlotte metro region for generations to come. Become a member today.
Weight Loss
CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS INSTITUTE
Gastonia • 704-271-9757
Matthews/Ballantyne • 704-243-8560
CWLI.net
Developer of the “40 Day Transformation” system, a physician designed and administered functional approach with programming tailored to the unique metabolism needs of each individual, to provide safe and sustained weight loss. Call for a free consultation.
gaston county natural guide
Connecting Gaston County to leaders in natural health, wellness and green living. To find out how you can be included in the Gaston County Natural Guide, email Ads@AwakeningCharlotte.com.
Organic Market & Supplements
ORGANIC MARKETPLACE
1012 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia 704-864-0605
OrganicMarketplaceNC.com
9am -7pm M/F, 9am6pm Sat. Reliable community partner, local source for education, organic foods, personal care, products, supplements, aromatherapy, organic wine/beer and pet products.
See ad, page 7
Weight Loss
CAROLINAS WEIGHT LOSS INSTITUTE
Lidia Adkins, CFMP, DC, PKT 216 S. New Hope Rd, Gastonia 704-271-9757 • CWLI.net
Developer of the “40 Day Transformation” system, a physician designed and administered functional approach with programming tailored to the unique metabolism needs of each individual, to provide safe and sustained weight loss. Call for a free consultation.
