Natural Awakenings Houston April 2021 by Holistic Choice Publishing/Natural Awakenings Houston

E E HEALTHY LIVING FR

HEALTHY

PLANET

CLIMATE CHANGE

WHAT A WARMING PLANET MEANS TO YOUR HEALTH

Erin Thole on

What’s Up With Meditation

MAKE YOUR HOME A NURTURING HAVEN April 2021 | Houston Metro-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 50 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 9 The Benefits of Planting Trees

11 Healthy Home-How to Detox a Living Space 15 Climate Change & Our Health

18 Spring Cleaning the Body 19 Detox Delights ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 713-927-6540 or email: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com. Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Email articles, news items and ideas to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month. If you have missed the deadline ask about our “Red-Eye Special” and our digital placements.

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20 Eco-Athletes 23 Creating a Nurturing Nest

24 Beyond CBD & THCan Intro to Delta-8 26 Erin Thole on What’s up with Meditation 4 letter from the publisher

24 plant-based wellness

5 affirming naturally

27 calendar of events

9 eco tip

28 healthy living guide

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

letter from publishers

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Greetings! Spring is finally here and wow, this has been one “interesting” year. While I like to plan ahead, each month Cindy and I have had to focus on just getting through this month, this week, this day... It’s an odd way to live but it does force you to live in the “now” realizing that the past is gone and the future is not promised to anyone. With the coming of spring, the blue bonnets, Indian paintbrush and Indian blanket flowers have started to bloom up and down the hillside where The Cabin is located. Cindy has picked out the seeds and seedlings and I have begun planting firmly assured that we aren’t going to have another deep freeze this year. We are going to try our hand at planting some Gueje trees (see page 9) to hopefully replace some of the Yaupon that has taken over most of the property. I’ve also notice that business has begun to pick up and each month several new business are contacting us asking to be a part of the Natural Awakenings family.

HOUSTON EDITION PUBLISHERS

EDITOR & DESIGN Mike Hart CREATIVE

This month’s magazine has a variety of articles from the health effects of climate change to ways to detox your home and your body. Environmentalism can permeate every part of your life from how you work out to how you meditate, and why not? If we all work together and each do our part, we can become the change we want to see! So, until next month try to enjoy a little something each day because each day is really all we’ve got and you might as well enjoy it.

Cindy & Mike Hart

MAY

Top Women’s Health Concerns Plus: Sustainable Fashion

APRIL 2021

Cindy Hart

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Doyle Ward Linda Sechrist Dr. Nettie Ramsay April Thompson SALES & MARKETING Carmen Jules WEBSITE

Mike Hart

446 West 19th Street, Suite 419 Houston, TX 77008 713-927-6540 NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman COO/FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Lisa Doyle-Mitchell © 2020 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 weresponsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Coming Next Month

Cindy & Mike Hart

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

© 2020 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

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Today I take time to celebrate me by Doyle Ward You have more than 55,000 thoughts each day. Many are the same thoughts over and over again. Every single one is an affirmation; this also includes everything that you say. By reducing your negative thoughts and words and increasing the positive ones, you can reshape your life. Expecting a better day helps to create a better life. The only place we have to take action or make changes is the present.

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Today I take time to celebrate me. Spring is in full swing and there is no better time than now to celebrate all aspects of you. Be your most faithful cheerleader. What you think about yourself reflects in all areas of your life including what you believe about yourself. The only thing that you’re guaranteed in life is this moment. Working with positive affirmations can radically change your mindset. Say them and write them repeatedly with the feeling that they are your truth. You have the power to make great changes in yourself and the world. I know this is true because I have made huge changes in my life by changing my thoughts. Doyle Ward, Blissful Quests ® Doyle Ward is a successful life coach, workshop leader and lecturer in the field of personal development.

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Introducing Terra Life Power Greens Ken Lyons of Pompano Beach, Florida has been selling greens since 2001. He heard an interview Anthony Robbins did at that time about the importance of a plant based diet and incorporating green drinks into your daily regimen and the rest is history. For the health fanatics, you have probably heard of the term “green drink” and are aware of the benefits. For those who are not in the know, a green drink is a drink that uses vegetables and other green plants that work to make up the lack of nutritional values that are in our diets and help to keep your body in balance. Terra Power Greens unique formula combines 45+ organic and high quality wildcrafted grasses, leaves, vegetables, sprouts and herbs. These essential nutritional elements improve the body’s general health and well-being. This is a “power packed” greens powder. The Terra Power Greens Blend supports digestion, delivers a boost of antioxidants, aids in detoxification, helps with free radical damage, enhances the immune system and boosts energy levels. Ken says, “There are many green drinks on the market and Terra Power Greens is definitely a high-end, top of the list product and there are many reasons for this. In my opinion, the 3 main reasons why Terra Power Greens is the best green drink on the market are: 1) The concentration – Terra Power Greens is built in a 20:1 concentration so you’re getting a high concentration of chlorophyll in the greens powder. 2) The variety of ingredients. 45+ different grasses, leaves, vegetables, sprouts & herbs. 3) The taste is very “mild and pleasing” It shouldn’t take too long before you start feeling the effect of the green drink, Terra Power Greens. One day you will find yourself with increased energy, feeling fresh and energized in the morning, and do not be surprised if you start to wake up before the alarm clock goes off. You will feel clean, energized, mentally sound and just overall great! And to introduce you to Terra Power Greens, Ken offers you a FREE (you only pay for shipping) sample pack of their 4 best-selling products. Visit the website and order yours TODAY! TERRA POWER GREENS 954-459-1134 terralifestore.com See ad on page 29

APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

75th anniversary of Paramahansa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi In discovering the unity of matter and energy that pervades the universe, modern science changed the way we view ourselves and the world. Yet centuries before scientific evidence attested to the essential relation between matter and energy, the great yogis of India were demonstrating a still deeper component in the equation of reality: that of consciousness. By expanding their mental awareness beyond the limitations of the physical body, these masters of the science of yoga were proving the essence of human reality to be omnipresence. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of Paramahansa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi this year, we invite you to read this timeless work and learn for yourself how this world spiritual classic has changed the lives of so many – from Apple founder Steve Jobs to Beatle George Harrison to cricketer Virat Kohli, and to millions of yogis across the globe. SELF-REALIZATION FELLOWSHIP yogananda.org See ad page 10

Arlene graduated from Louisiana State University with a Master of Social Work Degree (Clinical) and worked for 14 years in a variety of settings, including psychiatric and physical rehab hospitals and private practices. In 1996, she put her career on hold to raise her two sons and participate in volunteer activities. Once her older son graduated from high school, she began to look into how she could work with people and help them to reach their goals and true potential. After a few months, Arlene discovered life coaching and enrolled in iPEC, an accredited life coaching program. As a former practicing psychotherapist, she was at ﬁrst skeptical, but quickly experienced the beneﬁts and results after delving into the intensive coursework and working with other professional coaches. Through coaching, she found her passion and wanted to share this passion with others.

Schneider Counseling Group Reset Your Mindset

“I’d love to work with you and help you see the changes and positive outlook coaching can bring to your life.” Arlene Schneider. SCHNEIDER COACHING GROUP Arlene Schneider, MSW, CPC, PCC, ELI-MP www.schneidercoachinggroup.com See ad page 23

Use Aunt Alberta’s Remedy for Fast Pain Relief C.E. Smith, a local entrepreneur, reminds you that when you get aches and pains from spring cleaning or spring gardening that you can turn to Aunt Alberta’s Remedy for relief. Her Aunt Alberta mixed natural herbs to develop remedies that “cured everything that ailed you.” Her Remedy is a homeopathic pain relief cream that penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues. Several time-tested ingredients, oil of wintergreen, iodine, and castor oil are combined to bring effective pain relief results. Oil of wintergreen is extracted from leaves of a small evergreen herb. The plant has been used for rheumatoid arthritis but is mainly employed for joint and muscular pain relief from conditions such as lumbago, sciatica, neuralgia, gout, and fibroblast.

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The Remedy combines oil of wintergreen with Atomidine iodine, a natural product that influences physical and mental growth and nerve and muscle tissue function. lt is easy to absorb into the skin and is an essential nutrient. The active ingredients are combined with castor oil to penetrate deep into tissues, to soften and enrich the skin cells for renewed pliable skin.

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If we did not have winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. ~Anne Bradstreet 8

APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

eco tip

The Benefits of Planting Trees More Foliage Means Lower Temperatures

Get Your Guaje On!

Planting more trees can slow down climate change. Science magazine reports, “The restoration of trees remains among the most effective strategies for climate change mitigation.” The Arbor Day celebrations this month make it an apt time for taking actions that benefit both urban areas and open spaces. More than 166,000 square miles of forest habitat—approximately the size of California—in the tropics and subtropics have been decimated in the last 13 years, and about 2.7 million square miles of forest worldwide remain threatened, according to a recent study by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Some major ways to take action include: Avoid buying products linked to deforestation.

Guaje, pronounced (GWA-heh) is a shrub tree that grows 22 up to 60 feet. Guaje are native to the West Indies, the Yucatan Peninsula and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in southern Mexico and the northern region of South America. It is suspected that it was first introduced to the Philippines in the 16th century as a feed for livestock then soon after spread throughout Southeast Asia, Central America, Mexico and Africa. Additionally today they can be found growing in California, Texas, Florida, Australia, Brazil and Hawaii. The trees are commonly used as a cover crop and have been celebrated for their use in erosion control as well as their ability to aid in water conservation, reforestation and soil improvement programs. The seeds of the Guaje can be used fresh when young and green but are most commonly used dried or roasted. In Mexico the dried seeds are roasted and salted and eaten as a snack that is also known as “cacalas”. Popular in Mexican cuisine they are often ground and added to salsas and guacamole. Their flavor enhances soups and sauces, particularly moles. Add ground Guaje seeds to rice dishes, curries, omelets, roasted root vegetables or batter for fritters. Roasting or frying the seeds prior to use will enhance their flavor and impart a subtle sweetness to the seeds. Like many legumes the seeds of the Guaje are high in protein. The Guajes is a perfect tree to plant this spring since it grows quickly, provides lots of shade, helps to conserve water and the soil, and it’s seeds are both nutritious and delicious. Want a free Baby Green Guajes Tree? Limit Two per person from: DragonHorse Organics 2420 Noble St. Houston TX 77026 @DragonHorseOrganics Call for appointment to 713-487-6450

Pressure lawmakers to make supply chains sustainable while balancing the need for regulation with the concerns of farmers and businesses. Urge policymakers to enact zero-deforestation policies and bolster the rights and control of forests for local communities and indigenous people, says the WWF. Donate spare change. By joining Plant Your Change for All (PlantYourChange.com), all debit or credit card purchases are automatically rounded up to the nearest dollar and the balance applied toward planting trees. Working together with the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation (ADF) (ArborDay.org) and Eden Reforestation Projects, the initiative has already planted more than 3 million trees, offsetting 5 million miles of vehicle carbon emissions. Become a member of the ADF and receive 10 free trees, along with tree nursery discounts; help to qualify a community to receive the Tree City USA designation; or get involved with National Arbor Day, generally celebrated on the last Friday in April, but observed on different days in some states. The organization’s website includes ideas for conducting virtual celebrations if local chapters are not holding public events due to the pandemic. Also consider participating in other ADF programs such as the Alliance forCommunity Trees and NeighborWoods Month.

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

75th ANNIVERSARY!

Celebrate Earth Day 2021 Virtually The COVID-19 pandemic may be with us for some time, but there are still many ways to participate in the 51st anniversary of the global environmental movement. The Biden administration will host world leaders at an Earth Day 2021 global climate summit on April 22. Many important environmental events have occurred on Earth Day since 1970, including the 2016 signing of the Paris Agreement, as Earth Day continues to be a momentous and unifying day each year. Be a part of this historic climate summit by taking action to restore the Earth. For more information, visit the Earth Day Network at EarthDay.org.

Additional Local Eco-Events Drawdown EcoChallenge April 1 – 30, online You choose “challenges”, from among 80 of the most substantive solutions to climate change, to implement in your life, forming new earth-care habits over the course of the month. Join the team or learn more at https://drawdown.ecochallenge.org/challenges Actions Faith Communities Can Take Sunday, April 11, 2 p.m., online Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer for the City of Houston’s Health Department, will discuss current Houston Health Department programming and policies directed toward reducing pollution and pollution-related health effects. Learn more/register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pollution-public-health-faith-communities-tickets-143588120935. The Causes & Effects of a Healthy Galveston Bay Sunday, April 25, 6 p.m. central, online Join Sasha Francis, Community Engagement Coordinator at the Galveston Bay Foundation, as she discusses the very significant links between the health of Galveston Bay, the health of people in the Galveston Bay watershed (50% of the population of Texas) and the economy in this region. Please register for this talk on www.eventbrite.com

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI

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green living

Healthy Home

How to Detoxify a Living Space by Yvette Hammett

s the world moves into its second year of a viral pandemic, many of us are still spending most of our time at home—working, exercising, hanging out with family and as with any other year, cooking and cleaning. There’s no better time to take stock of these surroundings and purge them of any toxins—gases, inhalants or fumes—that may be contributing to a harmful environment. Start with the air. Research shows that indoor air is two to five times more toxic than the air outside, due to inadequate ventilation. This condition, coupled with fumes from synthetic fibers, makeup, paints, cleansers or even a baby’s plastic toys, can contribute to health issues and a less environmentally beneficial abode. A straightforward solution—in addition to getting rid of the pollution-causing objects—is to open the windows and use fans to recirculate the air. A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can safely remove many contaminants, but don’t spritz a commercial air freshener: A University of Washington study found that eight widely used air fresheners released an average of 18 chemicals into the air, some of them hazardous, including the likely human carcinogen acetaldehyde. Purge plastics. Perfluorinated compounds PFAS and PFOS, known as “forever chemicals”, are found in nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, and products that resist grease, water and oil. They have been found to cause a wide range of health problems from kidney and testicular cancers to endocrine disruptions. Consider doing a clean sweep of the house to determine which of these can be replaced, paying special attention to plastics. “If you really limit plastics to a few things, you are fine,” says Heather Patisaul, Ph.D., a neuroscience and toxicology expert at North Carolina State University. Reconsider kitchenware. Eliminate all nonstick cookware, Patisaul advises. “Use ceramic and other materials that do not have perfluorinated chemicals.”

Debbie Steinbock, a nutrition counselor at Mindful Family Medical, in Boulder, Colorado, suggests replacing plastic storage containers, which can leach chemicals when heated. “Use a cast iron skillet and use glass jars and mason jars for food storage.” Chuck out toxic cleaners. Many commercial kitchen, bathroom and other cleaning products are loaded with chemicals linked to asthma, cancer, reproductive disorders, hormone disruption and neurotoxicity. They can be particularly toxic for children: A recent Canadian study found that repeated use of a disinfectant reduced beneficial gut bacteria in toddlers, probably contributing to obesity. A good place to start in cleaning out the cleaners is at the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website ewg.org; its Healthy Living Home Guide evaluates the health risks of 2,500 cleaning products. It also advises a simple strategy of using vinegar and water or baking soda. Get the lead out. Andrew Rooney, deputy director at the National Toxicology Program of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, sees lead, which causes brain damage and other serious defects, as a major risk present in water supplies and the paint of older homes. “The thing I want to emphasize is there is no safe level of lead exposure, so eliminating exposure sources is the best protection for your health,” he says. Drinking water contamination comes from the distribution lines and plumbing fixtures, with lead leaching out from repairs or adjustments. “Having your household water tested by a certified lab is the best option to determine if you have water issues,” he says. Consult state and local health agencies for guidance on lead paint or lead in the water lines and how to remove it. Also consider a water filter: ConsumerReports. com has a comprehensive rating of models from pitchers to under-sink setups. Take it a step further. The new EWG downloadable Healthy Living app makes it easy to use a smartphone to check out 120,000 products for toxic ingredients, including cosmetics and foods. “It has a barcode scanner to scan your favorite lipstick or shampoo, and it will pop up an ingredient list and give it a score,” says Patisaul. The database includes ingredients not found on packaging and scores products on a zero to 10 scale. “It pretty much has to be water to get a zero,” she says. Yvette Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. She can be contacted at YvetteHammettHull49@gmail.com.

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health briefs

HOUSTON METRO

Chiropractic Guide

Drink Beet Juice to Lower Blood Pressure

Innate Chiropractic Healing Arts Center Dr. Jackie St.Cyr, DC 8100 Washington Ave, #210 Houston, TX 77007 713-521-2104 n8chiro.com HealthPro Chiropractic & Acupuncture Dr. Alayna E. Pagnani-Gendron, DC 4101 Green Briar Dr. #135 Houston, TX 77098 281-506-0105 healthprochiro.com Franson Chiropractic Dr. Brett V. Franson, DC 1652 South Dairy Ashford Rd. Houston, TX 77077 281-701-1596 fransonchiropractor.com

Consider Curcumin and Nano-Curcumin for Heart Health

Nominate your chiropractor. Email their contact info to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com

APRIL 2021

Hypertension is a global disease that particularly affects people in low-income communities, but a new study by the UK University of Nottingham suggests that beetroot juice may be a practical solution for people with high blood pressure that have little access to diagnostic help or money for medication. Researchers divided 47 people between 50 and 70 years of age in Tanzania into three groups. For 60 days, one group drank nitrate-rich beetroot juice and folic acid; another was given nitrate-rich beetroot juice and a placebo; and the third drank nitrate-depleted beetroot juice. The researchers

Iranian researchers tested 90 patients undergoing elective heart angioplasty, giving one group 500 milligrams (mg) curcumin, the second group 80 mg nanocurcumin, and the third a placebo. After eight weeks, both types of curcumin significantly improved cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-C levels. They also boosted antioxidant levels, superoxide dismutase and glutathione, and reduced C-reactive protein levels, indicating less inflammation. The nano-curcumin, however, produced even better results in five of those indexes, leading the authors to conclude that the effects of curcumin on the nano formula may be more conducive for cardiac patients due to its high bioavailability. Nano-curcumin is made through a process that encapsulates the herb, allowing it to be metabolized better.

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

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APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

CLIMATE CHANGE AND OUR HEALTH

The Human Costs of a Warming Planet by Sandra Yeyati

lobal warming is not just threatening polar bears far away in the Arctic, and its effects are not somewhere in the distant future. With every new wildfire, hurricane and flash flood, people are understanding that the warming of the planet poses dire consequences for human health right here, right now. It’s personal, and while some sectors of the population are unfairly and disproportionately impacted, we are all in harm’s way. This is no time to panic, say climate and public health advocates, but rather a moment for preparation, adaptation and mobilization. Prospects are hopeful as we tackle new realities together and evolve our conversations about climate change so we can build resilient, thriving communities. The good news is that many of the individual and policy changes we need to make are exciting opportunities for positive transformation and justice.

Health Threats in Our Midst

The warming of the planet is becoming more noticeable. “That historic two weeks anywhere in the United States where it’s the heat wave of high summer is now six weeks to two months,” says Jay Lemery, M.D., professor of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado and co-author of Enviromedics: The Impact of Climate Change on Human Health. “There are parts of the Middle East now where you can’t be outside and meaningfully cool your body during certain parts of the day.” “With warming, we’re seeing drought, wildfires, hurricanes, extreme precipitation, flooding and sea level rise, all of which have health consequences,” says Surili Patel, director of the Center for Climate, Health and Equity at the American Public Health Association. “With rising temperature and heat waves, we’re seeing heat stroke, dehydration, diarrheal disease, cardiovascular distress and respiratory illnesses. Extreme weather like wildfires, hurricanes and flooding cause direct injuries, as well as vector-borne illnesses (Lyme disease carried by ticks or dengue fever and malaria by mosquitoes), mold and harmful algal blooms that happen when it’s really hot, but also show up in places that otherwise wouldn’t have because of the combination of heat and flooding.” Lemery notes that incidences of mosquitoand tick-borne diseases are moving higher in altitude and latitude, affecting historically naive populations that have not had levels of disease immunity, the infrastructure or cultural habits to protect them. “These are huge killers worldwide, and we’re seeing more and more of that,” he says. “When you have a warmer winter, spring starts earlier, trees bloom early and pollen season starts early too, and longer exposure to pollen increases your risk of having an asthma attack,” says Professor Amir Sapkota at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, adding that the Northeast is

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heavily impacted by this phenomenon. “Here in Colorado, in the summer heat, we have these huge swaths of wildfire smoke hanging over Denver, and people come in to the emergency department. Their inhalers aren’t working anymore, and they’re having chest pain and shortness of breath when they’re on oxygen at baseline,” says Lemery. “These are people normally able to walk across a parking lot with their walker and their oxygen, but now they can’t. We see this all summer long, and we admit them for asthma exacerbation, shortness of breath and COPD (i.e., emphysema), but what we don’t write down is that the air quality is the worst it’s been all year, or that it’s the hottest day of the year.” “Air pollution contributes to climate change, but it also gets into your lungs and irritates them, exacerbating chronic respiratory illnesses, and can even lead to a heart attack,” says Jennifer Roberts, director of the Path of Positive Communities program at EcoAmerica, noting that the biggest culprits are carbon emissions from coal-burning power plants, diesel fuels and ground-level ozone, which is created when pollution reacts to heat and sunlight. “With sea level rise, things are flooding more often and we get septic tanks overflowing, sending fecal matter into our drinking water supplies and exposing us to diarrheal diseases. We also see offices and industrial sites getting flooded and, whether it’s paint, fertilizers or other toxins, those get into our water and it’s very unhealthy,” Roberts says.

The Most Vulnerable Among Us Certain segments of the population are more at risk. “Lower socioeconomic groups are suffering more from extreme heat events. The urban heat island effect, which unfortunately correlates very well with poorer neighborhoods, means that they’ll have heat waves seven to 10 degrees hotter in their neighborhoods than surrounding places with more green space,” Lemery says. “You see the public health infrastructure less robust to be able to attend to communities of color—like you saw with COVID. There are also physiologic vulnerabilities. Climate change affects the very young, the very old and the very sick much more because of their preexisting vulnerabilities, and then we have geographic vulnerabilities—people who live on the coast without sea walls or in flood plains. As sea level rise proliferates, and that data is really straightforward, they’re going to be going under increased storm surge stress and flat-out flooding.”

APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Achievable Public Health Solutions

The experts agree that it’s important to frame climate change as a public health issue because it brings a sense of urgency to act. “If it isn’t a crisis, if it isn’t something we’re seeing every day on the front page, then you forget about it. And when you forget about it, the funding doesn’t come,” says Patel, whose work focuses on underprivileged communities that need special attention and funding. Sapkota advocates for the development of early warning systems so that local health departments can anticipate and adapt to impending extreme weather events, directing resources to the most impacted and vulnerable communities. In some cases, moving people out of flood plains and vulnerable coastal areas through eminent domain might be needed. Lemery believes that doctors are in a prime position to counsel their patients on preventive measures against climate hazards with “credible messaging repeated over and over again with clarity and no hedging: Wear a mask. Stay indoors during high-heat events. Don’t let children play outdoors when the air quality index is at a dangerous level.” There are many ways to mitigate threats. As experts point out, we know what to do, and it’s just a matter of putting our attention and resources on their implementation. “One of the biggest ways is let’s remove the sources of harmful spewing pollution—move away from coal, oil and gas—and invest in clean sources of energy, which will also create jobs in these new industries,” says Patel. Another big step would be to promote mass transit and active transportation—walking and biking—over individual, gas-guzzling vehicles. Patel advocates for local investments in bike lanes and sidewalks that encourage the switch. Both Lemery and Roberts express excitement about clean-running electric cars as potential game-changers in transportation. Planting trees and vegetable gardens are easy, community-building solutions. “Trees are very beneficial to everything from shade to water filtration to producing oxygen and taking up carbon,” says Roberts, who adds that much can be done to restore and protect streams, ponds and lakes from the ill effects of pollution and development. “You get volunteers to clean up the gunk and increase regulations for developers to keep stuff out of the

Eco-Anxiety and Making Positive Change

Jessica Schiff, a second-year master of science student at the Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, struggles with eco-anxiety—the depression, anxiety or dread associated with climate change. She says, “It impacts the decisions I make for my life and the future, just trying to think about overall impacts. Where is my food coming from? Do I want to have kids or adopt? Should I live in the suburbs or the city because of transportation and fossil fuel consumption? This all adds a layer of unease or uncertainty about the future. Sometimes I look at Greta [Thunberg] and how far she’s taken things, and feel guilty about not taking things to such an extreme. Is it hypocritical for me to care about climate change but still eat meat occasionally or take a plane to explore the world?” Schiff deals with eco-anxiety by taking action. “We’re not going to reverse climate change at this point, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t take steps to slow it down or reduce emissions. There are many small things we can each do, like biking or walking instead of taking a car or bus and reducing our use of plastic. It’s a process. You can’t do it overnight, but if you make a lot of small changes, and if everybody makes small changes, that has a bigger effect.” Roberts acknowledges the power of small, individual actions, but stresses that we should not let the big polluters off the hook. “We need to continue to press for policy changes, holding polluters accountable, passing regulations based on protecting human health and climate, requiring cleaner cars and buildings, and more. That’s the only way we will get to the scale of change needed to truly bring global warming to a halt.” Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

This beautiful planet is out only home. ~The Dalai Lama

waterways.”

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

conscious eating

Spring Cleaning the Body Simple Ways to Detox Naturally by April Thompson

s we shake off the sluggishness of winter, many of us feel an urge to “spring clean” our bodies with a detox or cleanse. Yet health experts say such programs should help jumpstart new healthy habits and not necessarily be seen as a short-term fix. “The air we breathe, the water we drink, the cosmetics we use, the materials we build with and most notably, the food that we eat, are loaded with chemicals that are toxic to our metabolism,” says Alejandro Junger, a Los Angeles cardiologist, author and founder of CleanProgram.com. “The systems in the body designed to clear toxicity are overwhelmed, and this leads to the imbalances and damage that is at the root of most diseases today.” Detoxification functions are performed by many different organs and tissues, including intestinal flora, the immune system, the nervous system and the liver, so its imbalances can manifest in diverse ways, according to Junger. “Symptoms of detox imbalance include sleep and mood disorders, anxiety, rashes, lack of energy and libido, autoimmune disorders, inflammation and cancer.” While some health professionals say that detoxes are unnecessary because the body is capable of cleansing itself, others make a compelling case for the need to help it along, given our heightened exposure to manmade toxic elements. Information of varying repute swirls around the internet, offering approaches ranging from juice cleanses to total fasts.

Everyday Toxin Cleaners

Simple dietary strategies can help sweep out toxins, explains Robin Foroutan, an integrative dietitian and nutritionist in New York City. She points to cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, collards and kale, which promote cytochromes P450, a family of enzymes critical in helping toxins clear the body. She also recommends foods high in fiber that can bind to toxins and bile, and transport them out of the body through the

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HOUSTON METRO EDITION

stool. Berries, green tea and turmeric are also helpful for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; even water facilitates the excretion process, supports the lymphatic system and replenishes fluids lost through sweat. Using a water filter and eating organic foods when possible also reduces incoming toxins, she says. Healthy smoothies are a great way to get water, fiber and easily digestible nutrients into our body at the same time, according to Junger. “When using a good, clean, protein powder in addition to fruits and leafy greens, healthy fats such as nuts, and coconut or cashew milk, a smoothie can provide us the nutrients needed to support our energy for hours,” he says. Adding herbs like mint or holy basil (tulsi) and spices like turmeric and cinnamon elevate both flavor and healing. Liquids such as celery juice provide highly concentrated nutrients and hydration, but lack the fiber of a blended drink. Both juices and smoothies give overtaxed digestive systems a needed break.

Deep Detox

Fasting (occasionally for a prolonged period, such as three days without food) and intermittent fasting (abstaining from food for a shorter period, such as 16 hours per day on a regular basis) are great tools for deeper detoxification, says Junger. “Digestion takes energy and resources from the detox functions, so eating less, eating less often and allowing time for digestion to stop so that detox can intensify is crucial.” For a comprehensive detox, experts recommend working with a health practitioner to assess toxic burdens and develop a personalized plan. Russell Jaffe, a physician in Ashburn, Virginia, crafts a detox program based on four self-assessments, including digestive transit time, urine pH, hydration levels and vitamin C levels. Jaffe claims our bodies are burdened by excess acid, rendering them less resilient to stress and resulting in fatigue, illness and infection risks. “When we enjoy a diet rich in greens, fruits, vegetables, minerals and antioxidants, our cells become more alkaline and more resistant to everyday stress,” he states Experts emphasize that a short-term program must be part of a longer-lasting lifestyle and diet shift. “It is not enough to do periodic detoxes if you go back to old habits. I offer these programs as a jumpstart in hopes that participants feel so much better that they never want to go back to what they were doing and eating before,” says Junger.

Detox Delights Sweet Mango Smoothie Sweet fruit paired with spinach for an extra dose of fiber, vitamins and super-green-detoxifying antioxidants won’t change the taste of this beloved fruit smoothie. 1 cup fresh or frozen mango 1 to 3 cups spinach ¼ cup packed mint ½ cup coconut water ½ cup coconut milk 1 Tbsp chia seeds 1 serving dairy-free protein powder Handful of ice Skin and chop mango. Wash spinach. Remove mint leaves from their stems and rinse them with water. Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high until smooth (30-60 seconds). Pour and serve immediately. Sprinkle chia seeds on top if desired. Recipe by Kaitlyn Noble of the Clean Program.

Vegetable Yum Soup Soups help provide the body with nutrient- and fiber-rich vegetables in an easy-todigest format, while soup broths help supply water for detoxification and a sense of satiety. Yield: 4 to 6 Servings 1 Tbsp vegetable oil 1 garlic clove, minced 2 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated 1 stalk lemongrass, minced ½ tsp crushed red pepper ¾ cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped 5 to 6 cups vegetable stock 1 (14-oz) can coconut milk 2 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce 3 Tbsp cilantro or parsley, chopped Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté garlic, ginger, lemongrass and crushed red pepper. Stir in the mushrooms, sweet potatoes and bell pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the stock, bring to boil and then reduce heat. Simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the coconut milk and soy sauce, and stir. Serve sprinkled with cilantro or parsley (optional). NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

fit body

Eco-Athletes

Working Out with the Planet in Mind

by Marlaina Donato

rom human-powered gyms that generate electricity to Earth-friendly activewear, professional and recreational athletes alike are increasingly working out with the planet in mind. Taking a recycled yoga mat to class, nixing the plastic water bottle and going “plogging”—picking up litter while out for a run—are just a few examples of eco-fitness in motion. “We believe that movement and nature go hand-in-hand, yet the world of sports isn’t as green as it should be, with plastic bottles at events, junk food in canteens and monotonous movement in the gym,” says Saraï Pannekoek, co-founder of the Sustainable Athlete Foundation, which strives to create a sustainable sports environment through coaching, workshops and campaigns.

Supplementing the usual gym routine with self-powered workouts and outdoor activities like gardening, sustainable charity races and hiking are sound choices that can help to buffer climate change. “Being eco-centric enriches life and enhances health, but while it’s personally gratifying, it also makes you keenly aware of just how far the world is from taking action sufficient to keep climate change in check. We all need to do more,” says Bruce Rayner, founder and chief green officer at Athletes for a Fit Planet, in Portland, Maine, who was enlightened to the problems firsthand at a half-ironman distance race. “When I got to the finish line, I was given my obligatory plastic water bottle. I looked around for a recycling bin, and all I saw was an overflowing trash bin.” Founded in 2008, Rayner’s organization partners with pro-environment races like the TD Beach to Beacon 10K, in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, recently named the most sustainable 10-miles-or-less race in the country.

Fueling Up, Protecting Natural Resources

Working Out Green

Links between personal fitness and environmental toxicity are critical. Sixty percent of clothing is manufactured with fossil fuel-derived plastics, and activewear rates highest for eco-toxic fibers. Choosing workout clothes made from sustainable bamboo and cotton can soften the impact. With name brands like Adidas offering sustainable footwear, staying fit doesn’t need to increase the toll on the environment. Pannekoek, who hosts the Sustainable Athlete Podcast with co-founder Paul Venner in Amsterdam, emphasizes personal responsibility. “We believe that there isn’t a quick fix. It’s all about habits and conscious behavior, while still being able to peak perform.”

A pillar of the eco-fitness movement is eating clean and going plant-based for the health of people and planet. “Diet is a big part of being eco-fit. The best action you can take is to support local farms, specifically organic farms,” emphasizes Rayner. To minimize global greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, eating more nutrition-packed produce, whole grains, legumes and nuts instead of animal products supports sustainability. For Adam Layzell, sports therapist, nutritionist and author of How to Train Your Vegan: The Comprehensive Guide to Plant-Based Fitness, going vegan is a win-win situation. “A vegan diet encourages fat loss, improves endurance and recovery and has plenty of all the necessary components such as protein to build strength and muscle.” Layzell underscores that the vegan diet preserves animals and their ecosystems, prevents deforestation and destruction of wild land and lowers the impact on climate change and global

warming.

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Athlete Engagement

For Lewis Blaustein, managing editor of GreenSportsBlog.com, climate change action and sports are an ideal marriage. He recently launched EcoAthletes.org to encourage sports figures to speak up about global warming. “Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Sport has the power to change the world.’ EcoAthletes aims to show that athletes are the agents of that change and that they, by mobilizing millions if not billions of fans, can do so on climate.” Blaustein sees a surge of climate-concerned athletes leading radical changes. “There will be many different looks—from athletes endorsing green products à la solar power, electric vehicles, etc., to athletes speaking out for environmental/climate justice in a similar fashion to WNBA and NBA players on Black Lives Matter.” Pannekoek concurs, “All small steps taken still go a great distance. Elite athletes are role models. If they would support more conscious brands to influence the youth, we believe that they can make such a difference.” Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

WHAT WE CAN DO

Bruce Rayner: n After pandemic restrictions lift, when signing up for a race, pick one that’s local and carpool with friends.

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n Washing polyester clothing means microplastics are in the wastewater, which means they make their way into the environment. Consider getting a filter for your washing machine that catches microplastics.

n Tell race directors that you appreciate their efforts to be more sustainable.

Adam Layzell: n Reuse clothes to lower the carbon footprint and plastic production. Go to the charity shop, borrow, repair and buy second-hand.

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n Choose reusable water bottles. n Exercise in nature, a great way to appreciate what we need to be protecting.

n Litter pick when exercising in nature. Have a small backpack and clean up as you run. Saraï Pannekoek: n Consume intentionally and more mindfully. Think and act long-term instead of going for quick fixes.

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n Change your move-

ments instead of doing simple repetition over and over again.

n Replace sugary snacks

with quick, energizing exercises throughout the day. (We call this “movement snacks”.)

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inspiration

Create a Nurturing Nest by Marlaina Donato

ore than being a roof over our heads, home is where we live, love and heal. This past year, we all have been reminded of the importance of having a refuge; a place that shelters not only our physical beings, but our souls, too. With ongoing pandemic restrictions, we have more time on our hands, and with this comes a blessed opportunity to catch up with our bliss. Living space should be inspired space. Creating a haven doesn’t require remodeling the kitchen or buying new furniture, only distilling new joy from the mundane. Adding a luxurious throw to a sofa or putting books to read in a pretty basket by an easy chair invites us to tend to the much-neglected inner life. Putting cut flowers at the bedside or turning a chair toward the sunlight says, “Yes” to life and renewal. Playing uplifting, infectious music on laundry day rouses an element of fun. Practicing easy principles of feng shui—the art of placement—can get previously stagnant energy moving. Repositioning furniture for optimal flow and creating more open space are simple actions that can lighten heavy thoughts or memories. Home is a harbor of habit, and breaking out of the usual routine can be transformative. Here are some activities to try. n Reserve an evening every week for an old-fashioned “Sunday supper” by candlelight or have a rainy-day indoor picnic on the floor in the living room. n Add one item per day for a month to a bag intended for a local thrift store and then follow through by dropping it off. n Tidy the desk every other day and keep it uncluttered. n Hang new art prints, photos or paintings to set a new mood. Consider bright splashes of color—a set of red cups, a turquoise pillow or sunny yellow bathroom towels. n Bring the seasons in; hang a garland of faux ivy, roses or autumn leaves over the showerhead. n Buy or adopt low-maintenance indoor plants like philodendrons and snake plants for a spot of lovely green, even in deep winter. In a world that fosters a “grass is always greener on the other side” mentality, cultivating soul-nourishment is a sure way to turn the humblest space into a castle.

Marlaina Donato is the author of Spiritual Famine in the Age of Plenty: Baby Steps to Bliss. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

ARE YOU LIVING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST? Pursue your dreams Achieve a new attitude Find a new love of life Schedule a call with Arlene Schneider today www.schneidercoachinggroup. Arlene Schneider, M.S.W. Professional Certified Coach

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plant-based wellness

Looking Beyond CBD and THC

An Introduction to the Hemp Derivative Delta-8 by Meredith Montgomery

s a seemingly endless supply of cannabidiol (CBD) products have flooded the U.S. market in recent years, many experts in the industry are looking beyond CBD to the many other beneficial components of the cannabis plant. More than 480 chemical entities (including over 100 canna-binoids and over 100 terpenes) occur naturally in this complex plant, and when they interact with various receptors within our body, a wide gamut of psychoactive and medicinal effects are elicit-ed. “Of the 489 chemicals in cannabis, delta-9-THC is the only one listed as a federally controlled substance,” says Jennifer Boozer, owner of CannaBama (CannaBama.com), in Mobile, Alabama. “Everyone knows it as the one that gets you in trouble—the one that gets you high.”

Get to Know Delta-8-THC

While many consumers are familiar with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as the plant’s primary psy-choactive component, most are not aware that there are several forms of THC in cannabis. Delta-8-THC is an analog of the well-known delta-9-THC, and a slight molecular difference between the two makes delta-8 significantly less potent. Users report a smoother, less anxious psychoac-tive experience that leaves them functional, plus it seems to have more medicinal effects. “Even in low quantities, people love it for anxiety and pain relief, and it’s very effective for nau-sea and as an appetite stimulant,” says Boozer, who’s experienced a higher demand for delta-8 than CBD this year. “It can energize you or relax you depending on the terpene profile, but it’s more of a body high—it makes you feel good and helps you focus, and there’s no paranoia.” A well-known study on delta-8-THC involved eight children, ages 8 to 13, who were being treated with various drugs and chemotherapy for hematologic cancers in Jerusalem. The patients were given delta-8-THC two hours before each session of chemotherapy and then every six hours for 24 hours. With this treatment, “vomiting was completely prevented” and “side effects ob-served were negligible.” Boozer witnessed the medicinal effects of delta-8 when a friend was diagnosed with terminal stomach, lung and brain cancer. “The delta-8 gummies I gave him kept him from losing his mind. It was the only comfort he had to manage his pain and keep him from getting sick from the treatment,” she says.

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Ensuring Quality and Legality

Like the CBD market, there isn’t much quality control of delta-8 and the scientific research, while promising, is limited. The legality of it can also be murky when products are not sourced from a reputable retailer. While delta-8 derived from hemp—a cannabis variety that is high in CBD and low in THC—is federally legal, synthetically altering CBD into delta-8-THC or sourc-ing it from a THC-potent cannabis plant, is illegal. Additionally, some states have more restrictive laws about hemp products, including Mississippi. Boozer also warns that many delta-8 vape cartridges being sold have illegal amounts of delta-9-THC and that researching brands to ensure transparency and quality is paramount. “You have to check the certificate of analysis (COA) and make sure the company is transparent by testing aggressively for purity and residuals like pesticides, heavy metals or solvents,” says Jon Bonds, the Sales Director of the delta-8 product line Hii Stick (HiiStick.com). He notes that a lot of brands from the tobacco industry are entering the market and trying to make quick money. “If a product is only 70 percent pure and nothing else is listed on the package, what is that other 30 percent?” Price points can also be a quick indication of quality. Hii Stick Marketing Director Ian Bush says, “Because the CBD conversion process is expensive and time consuming, the price [for delta-8] shouldn’t be too low—you get what you pay for.”

Comparing Delta-8 to Other Cannabinoids

Unlike spice or other synthetic cannabinoids, delta-8 naturally occurs in hemp. It has been around as long as cannabis, but only recently has it been identified and isolated from other compounds. It’s growing in popularity partly because it can serve both medicinal and recreational consumers. “People think of CBD as the nonalcoholic beer of the cannabis world because they can’t feel its effects as significantly as they can feel THC. The long-term effects of THC consumption is that it’s a part of the entourage effect—including it in a full-spectrum oil is great,” says Boozer. “But THC alone, in any form, is not going to get rid of inflammation and reverse symptoms like CBD can.” For many people, taking delta-8 at the end of the day is like drinking a glass of wine, but when combined with CBD, it helps bring the body into balance for overall well-being. Delta-8 can also be used to prolong the therapeutic effects of CBD, especially in cases involving pain or anxiety.

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“I had fallen out of love with cannabis the older I got. I take CBD, but more as a supplement be-cause it didn’t do it for me recreationally,” Bush says. “After my daughter was born I learned about delta-8 and now [at Hii Stick] we’re trying to be innovators in this market because we see applications for it for so many types of people suffering from so many different things.” Boozer is excited about the growing popularity of delta-8 because every time producers learn how to isolate a new trace compound of cannabis, it represents a higher level of product customi-zation that is available. “I think the future of cannabis is isolated compounds—I envision cus-tomers sitting at a bar and working with a mixologist to make a custom tincture of cannabinoids, terpenes and other herbs. We can keep that recipe on file for them and tweak it depending on their current needs—add echinacea if they feel a cold coming on, or increase the delta-8 if they get injured and need pain relief,” she says. She also thinks we need to stop referring to cannabis as a drug. Boozer says, “Cannabis is the most bioavailable plant that we know of. There’s more chemicals in cannabis that are identical to the human body and usable than any other plant. It’s a superfood and food is medicine.” Meredith Montgomery is the publisher of the Gulf Coast edition of Natural Awakenings. Connect at HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com.

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wise words

Erin Thole on What’s up with Meditation? T

by Erin Thole, CNHP

here are a lot of science-based benefits of meditation in both adults and children. As a long time meditator I think that it’s super cool that some schools are now starting to implement mindfulness, meditation and yoga. Kids learning these skills at a young age will help them to be better parts of society as adults. Mindfulness and meditation help us to slooooooow down a bit, get centered, grounded and reconnected to our emotions, our desires, our roadblocks and how to get past them, our motivations and more. It also helps to reduce stress and blood pressure. And who doesn’t need help with stress relieve after 2020?! There are different types of meditation. The most popular are: 1. Focused meditation - where you are zoning in on one thing and not thinking of anything else - like your breath or a gong. If the mind wonders, you just pull yourself back to focusing on the breath. Slow, deep breath in, slow exhaul out. 2. Spiritual Meditation - similar to prayer. You are really just focusing on the silence and the greatness that is around you and seeking to strengthen your connection to God, the Universe, Source, nature, Earth, etc. Often times essential oils are used to open up this connection. Like: frankincense, myrrh, sage and cedar. 3. Mindfulness Meditation - this is the most popular type of meditation. Basically you are sitting quietly and noting your thoughts as they pass through your mind and then releasing them. You are simply

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observing and noting any patterns or trends. Many people try to focus on their breath as they also note any feelings, sensations or thoughts that come up.

4. Moving or Active Meditation - This could be a walk in the woods, yoga, gardening, qigong, or any peaceful activity that allows the mind to wonder off and “take a break.” 5. Mantra Meditation - This is focusing on a word or affirmation. It can be very empowering as you feel the words vibrating through you. Om is often used. It is the “perfect” sound and helps to calm the nervous system as it vibrates through your body. You can also use a phase like “I am at peace.” …. or whatever you would like. Mantras help you to focus and keep the mind from wondering.

My all time favor app for meditation is Insight Timer App. You can choose the length of time you want to meditate and you also choose your topic, and they have a TON: sleep, stress, health, anxiety, addiction, abundance, love and many, many more! Once you choose length and topic it will spit a list of meditations that fit your criteria back at you. I love the guided meditations. It is a great way to get centered and refreshed. Often times the mind wonders to our to-do list when we are trying to be still and meditate. Having something tot focus on is very helpful. Many of my clients love the sleep meditations. There are also prayers and spiritually based lectures and workshops you can attend on the app. One of the really cool things is that it will tell you how many people around the world are also meditating at the same time you are and it will keep track of how many days in a row you have meditated. It’s time to get zen! Erin Thole, CNHP has been working in Functional Medicine for over 12 years. To learn more and request a free consultation: www.erinthole.com - thole. erin@gmail.com See ad on page 6

Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud. ~Maya Angelou

6. Transcendental Meditation - This is the most popular type of meditation around the world and the most studied. It uses a series of mantras that are specific to the practitioner. Studies show that meditating, even just 10 minutes a day, has great benefits. It can: 1. Reduce stress and anxiety 2. Promote emotional health and well being 3. Enhance self awareness 4. Lengthen your attention span 5. Reduce age related memory issues 6. Generates kindness 7. Helps fight addictions 8. Improves sleep 9. Helps control pain 10. Decreases blood pressure

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MAY

Coming Next Month

Top Women’s Health Concerns Plus: Sustainable Fashion

calendar of events April 2021 ALL MONTH - APRIL 1-30th

Drawdown EcoChallenge-Online. You choose “challenges”, from among 80 of the most substantive solutions to climate change, to implement in your life, forming new earth-care habits over the course of the month. Join the team or learn more at https://drawdown.ecochallenge.org/challenges

SUNDAY APRIL 11th

Actions Faith Communities Can Take 11 am Loren Hopkins, Chief Environmental Science Officer for the City of Houston’s Health Department, will discuss current Houston Health Department programming and policies directed toward reducing pollution and pollution-related health effects. Learn more/register at: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/pollution-public-health-faith-communities-tickets-143588120935.

THURSDAY APRIL 22th

SUNDAY APRIL 25th

The Causes & Effects of a Healthy Galveston Bay. 6pm. Join Sasha Francis, Community Engagement Coordinator at the Galveston Bay Foundation, as she discusses the very significant links between the health of Galveston Bay, the health of people in the Galveston Bay watershed (50% of the population of Texas) and the economy in this region. Please register for this talk on www. eventbrite.com Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs. lrc@gmail.com with any questions.

plan ahead TUESDAY MAY 4th

2021 Houston’s Heroes Award Luncheon 11:30 am The Annual Houston’s Heroes Award Luncheon honors individuals and organizations who have given exemplary services to make Houston a safer place to live, work, learn and play. Royal Sonesta Houston 2222 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 For ticket purchases or more information please visit https://crime-stoppers.org/get-involved/2021CSLuncheon.

tuesday Core Focused Yoga 6:30-7:30 pm Strengthen your body, relax your mind and find your center with this dynamic flow yoga sequence with John Tran. Discovery Green 1500 McKinney St.Houston, TX 77010. discoverygreen.com

wednesday YIN With Lin 9:30 am Yin yoga targets the deep connective tissues: fascia, ligaments, joints, and bones. It’s slow and meditative, facilitating the space to turn inward and tune into both your mind and the physical sensations of your body. RSVP Required. 713.858.8595 Lin Weiss - Certified Yoga Therapist linweiss@conscioushealingnow. com Blissful Quests® with Doyle Ward-The Pocast. 1:00pm.Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Maybe the real question to explore is not IF you are intuitive, but HOW you are intuitive. Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive medium, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach. Call in during the show at: 1-760-456-7277, access on-demand episodes or listen live! blissfulquests.com/podcast/ Healing Meditation at First Spiritualist Church of Houston. 7:30 pm Livestream on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FirstSpiritualistChurchofHouston/ People of Earth. 7:00 pm. Hosted by Jacquelyn Battise. A program created to provide Native American and non-Native people with timely news and information about culture, news and realities. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

thursday Living the Change Weekly Online Discussion Group 6 pmThis 12-week program focuses on making personal lifestyle changes in three areas: transportation; energy; and food. The Interfaith Environmental Network of Houston invites you to join us on this journey, via a weekly online discussion group. . Please register for this event on www.eventbrite.com. For more information, please contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail. com.

friday Brith Shalom 6:15 pm Shabbat Online https:// www.brithshalom.org

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HOUSTON METRO EDITION

saturday Integrative Hatha Yoga 9:30amTherapeutic and flowing asana practice focusing on heart and hip openers, twists, postural alignment, the energetic subtlebodies and meditation.Lin offers the wisdom of many traditions to address each student’s goals, whether beginner or advanced. RSVP Required. 713.858.8595 Lin Weiss - Certified Yoga Therapist linweiss@conscioushealingnow.com

sunday Houston Zen Center 8”20 am Sunday Sangha. https://houstonzen.org/cloud-zendo Grace Episcopal Church & School. 10 am. Sunday Worship Livestream. https://www.facebook.com/GraceinHouston/ Unity Spiritual Center of Greater Houston 10:15 am Sunday Service. Facebook Live https://unityspiritualcenterhouston.org First Spiritualist Church of Houston 10:30 am Sunday Healing & Spirit Greetings Facebook Live First Unitarian Universalist Church 10:30 am Sunday Morning Worship Livestream. https:// firstuu.org/ Unity of Houston. 11 am Sunday Morning Service Livestreaming. https://unityhouston.org/ Creative Life Spiritual Center 11 am Sunday Celebration. Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/creativelife.org/ Unitarian Fellowship of Houston 11 am. Sunday Program. Click on Sunday Program to access the Zoom link. https://ufoh.org/ Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism 12 noon. Sunday Meditation & Dharma Talk. https://www.youtube.com/user/dawnmountain ISKCON 5 pm Sunday Feast Class Livestream https://www.mayapur.tv/ YogaMass® Online 5-6:30 pm. In YogaMass, we remember and embody the promise of Jesus, “The Kingdom of God is within you.” YogaMass® is a unique worship experience engaging and integrating all of our dimensions -- physical, psychological, emotional, mental, energetic, social, and spiritual. It reconnects us, through sacred ritual and practices, to the divine presence among us, within us, and in the sacred meal that we share as we seek to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. Donations accepted. Via Zoom. Go to yogamass.com to register. Whole Mother. 7:30 pm. Hosted by Pat Jones. A show that discusses the political and practical aspects of being a mother today. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

healthy living guide ACUPUNCTURE Houston Integrative Health, Acupuncture and Mindful Movement 716 Chelsea Blvd. Houston, TX 77006 832-304-0149 facebook.com/drlance houstonintegrative

Whether you are looking to optimize your health or take care of an injury, pain or a chronic medical problem, let Lance Westendarp ND, LAc, BCB, CKTP, E-RYT200, help. Lance is a graduate of Bastyr University with a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and a Masters in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. He has also been teaching yoga and movement since 2003, is board certified in biofeedback and mind-body medicine. Follow him on Facebook and call him today for a FREE phone consultation. See ad on page 5

BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY MARILYN K. JONES, DDS Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 713-497-1355 houstonbiologicaldentist.com

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment. See ad on page 22

BRAIN BALANCING

COLONICS

COACHING BLISSFUL QUESTS

Positive change starts now! 832-628-4113 blissfulquests.com Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach. Tune in to his weekly PodCast, Wednesdays at 1 pm on inflowradio.com See ad on page 8

SCHNEIDER COACHING GROUP

Arlene Schneider, MSW, CPC, PCC, ELI-MP Is it time to resent your mindset? www.schneidercoachinggroup.com Are you living life to the fullest? Are you who you want to be? If not, and you would like to have a new perspective to pursue your dreams, coaching with Arlene can help you achieve a new attitude and love of life. With 14 years as a licensed therapist, and as a Professional Certified Coach, Arlene uses a blend of cognitive/behavioral and intuitive coaching to help her clients achieve their goals with confidence. Now accepting clients from teens to adults. New clients will receive guided meditation journal prompts to supplement their journey. Contact: schneidercoachinggroup.com or arleneschn@gmail.com See Ad on page 23

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE 1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com

Established 1989. Call to schedule any of the following services: massage therapies, lymphatic drainage massage and facials, reflexology, infra-red sauna, ion cleanse foot or hand baths, Chinese cupping or colon hydrotherapy (prescriptions only- yours or ours). By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

URBAN COLONICS

Barbara Ellis, Retired RN 5042 Briscoe St. Houston, TX.77033 713-738-8199 urbancolonics.com Serving Houston and the surrounding area since 1979. We continue to irrigate with State Of The Art Equipment (closed colonic systems cleared by the FDA). We utilize totally disposable colonic set-ups and sterile water. A prescription is required for this procedure. Our Medical Director at a different location will make an assessment and write a prescription for OUR clients only. Visit our website to learn more details. Please call us to schedule an appointment. See ad page 5

CERESET™

Galveston, Texas cereset.com 409-599-7268 The Cereset™ Gavston location is part of a national network of client centers focused on next-generation brain wellness - helping you relax your brain to manage restful sleep through patented BrainEcho™ technology, which empowers the brain to reset itself as it hears and “sees” its own reflection. To schedule an appointment call: 409-599-7268.

MAY

Sustainable Fashion Plus: Top Women’s Health Concerns

See ad on pages 6 & 8

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Secure this ad spot!

ERIN THOLE, CNHP ErinThole.com Thole.erin@gmail.com Get to the Root Cause of your Health Conditions. Erin has been working in the health and nutrition field for over 11 years specializing and working extensively with those suffering from: autoimmune, digestive, hormonal and inflammatory disorders. She works with each client’s unique biochemistry to determine what dietary, supplementation and lifestyle changes will work best for them as an individual. There is NO one-size-fitsall program. All appointments are conducted via phone! This makes it very easy and convenient to receive care from any location. If you want to reach your true health potential, Email Erin today to schedule your FREE 45 minute initial phone consultation. Hours until 5 pm Fridays. See Ad page 6

GREEN POWER DRINKS

TERRA POWER GREENS 954-459-1134

terralifestore.com Feeling Tired and Need More Energy? Wake up with increased energy, feeling fresh and energized in the morning, and don’t be surprised if you start waking up before the alarm clock goes off. You will feel clean, energized, mentally sound and just overall great! Terra Power Greens is an amazing and great-tasting superfood drink. Our unique formula combines 45+ organic and high quality wildcrafted vegetables, grasses, leaves, sprouts and herbs. In the “greens” business since 2001. Get samples of four of our best selling products, greens powder, clay, electrolytes & colon cleanser FREE as a new customer. (Pay only shipping) Visit our website TODAY and start bringing your body back into balance!

HAIR DESIGN VENUS HAIR DESIGN

361 West 19th Street Houston, TX 77008 713-868-4725 venushairhouston. com Venus and her staff can do any age with any style, from a trim to a Mohawk. She is a wizard at color! If you are in The Heights, drop by, check out her art car, The Hairse, and say Hi! Now OPEN by appointment only. Call me!

APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

HOLISTIC HEALTH PRIMARY CARE HOUSTON HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY CENTER “Better Health Naturally” Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991 HoustonHolisticHealthClinic.com

Have you spent years in hope for finding answers to your symptoms or illnesses? We offer people an alternative solution to conventional medicine by determining the specific nutritional needs of your body so that it can to heal itself. We now also offer medical thermography useful in early diagnosis of cancer and chronic inflamatory pain. Call today to schedule an appointment.

HYPNOSIS CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST (by appointment only) 281-849-4610 ca@claudiaautry.com claudiaautry.com

Want to stop smoking or lose weight? Looking for ways to relax, find balance and increase the joy in your life? Hypnosis can help you. Call SOON to book your appointment. Let’s work together to create the life you want!

INDIVIDUAL NUTRITIONAL PROTOCOLS LINDA ISAACS, MD 2500 W. William Cannon Dr., Suite 603 Austin, TX 78745 737-208-0831 DrLindaI.com/NAHTX For more than 20 years, Dr. Linda Isaacs and the late Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez offered individualized protocols involving diet, nutritional supplementation, and detoxification for cancer and other degenerative diseases. They published multiple articles in peer-reviewed medical journals about their results. The work is based on that of the Texas orthodontist Dr. William Donald Kelley. Dr. Isaacs is currently seeing new patients.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com/ Health conditions can interrupt the normal flow of lymph, causing lymph fluid to build up in a particular area of the body, often in the arms or legs, where it can causing swelling. Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

MEDITATION

GREEN IS SEEN when you advertise with us. 713-927-6540

clairevillarreal.com

Online meditation classes to help you bring your practice into your daily life. Whether you are an experienced meditator or just beginning to meditate, Claire Villarreal, PhD offers online classes to help you make a lifesytyle of Coming Home to Your Mind. The free mini-course is available on her website and the full course

See ad on page 22

APRIL

Coming Next Month Healthy Home Plus: Climate Change Health Impacts

APRIL 2021

ODYSSEY EMPORIUM 123 Midway St, Bldg C Spring, Texas 77373 888-492-3584 odysseyemporium.com

We are a retail shop and also have an online store. We can also custom-make many of our product lines. Our products include a range of metaphysical items, clothing, books, stones, jewelry, candles, soaps, teas, incenses, herbs, blades, and accessories for spiritual work. We also have some unique renaissance festival and gothic clothing and accessories. We carry some wonderful and unusual products some of which are artisan made. Check out our gaming and sci-fi themed products as well. We offer daily in-house Tarot reading and conduct private Old Town Spring Ghost tours. Open 7 days a week.

Claire Villarreal: Meditation Instruction for Transformation

During this time of added stress when in-person meditation communities are closed, take advantage of this opportunity to receive timeless teaching and practice in the comfort of your home.

METAPHYSICAL SHOP

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188 Services: nHormone Rejuvenation nVaginal Dryness nUrinary Incontinence nLow Libido nErectile Dysfution nLow Stamina nWeight-Loss nSexual Dysfunction(men & women) nHair Restoration nNatural Face Lift Call today to schedule a consultation

OPTICIAN FACTORY EYEGLASS OUTLET 7921 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 713-468-5665 factoryfineeyewear.com

Factory Eyeglass Outlet provides the ultimate services for all your eyecare needs. Whether you’re looking for premium or standard eyewear, we have something for you. As part of our superior services we offer complimentary consulting and frame styling. Next time you need you need new eyeglasses or need a repair choose Factory Eyeglass Outlet. Better sight- Better Life.

PERSONAL TRAINER

MAY

Top Women’s Health Concerns Plus: Massage & Bodywork Sustainable Fashion Homeopathic Medicine

JOEY DIEGO, PERSONAL TRAINER 917-402-8664

Build your beach body, now! Erase 20 years from your body and quit looking sick and old. Prevent or reverse high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Lose weight. Live longer and better so you can enjoy your children and grandchildren. Remember, muscle knows no age. What are you waiting for? Call JoeyDiego TODAY! See ad page 21

PAIN RELIEF AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream 973-715-9097 info@AlbertasPainRelief.com albertaspainrelief.com

JUNE

Integrative Approaches to Men’s Health Plus: Treating Depression Naturally Travel for the Planet Tips for Eating Vegan on Vacation

Need Relief from Arthritis? Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease muscular aches andjoint pain. Her Remedy is a homeopathic pain relief cream that penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues. Get beneficial relief from sciatica, fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuralgia, gout, and more. All-natural ingredients! Do you want to feel a real difference from the nagging aches of arthritis? Feel less pain & have more range of motion? Use Aunt Alberta’s Pain Relief Cream! Get relief today! Great buy, get a 4oz jar for $15! See website for other options. See what people say about Aunt Alberta’s Remedy and Purchase Now on our website. albertaspainrelief.com. See ad page 13

SELF-HEALING

JULY

Food as Medicine

Plus: Better Sleep The Ethics of What we Eat Benefits of Urban Gardening

Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at: 713-927-6540

Ching Chi Institute

Life energy education and research Kun Wu, Ph. D. Integral chi healer Chi H Wu, L. Acupuncturist 832-654-2885 chingchiinstitute.com

CHING CHI

Do you want to learn how to use your body’s own chi energy to decrease your chance of becoming INSTITUTE ill, increase your chance of recovering more quickly from illness, prevent a minor illness from becoming a major one, and improve your overall health? We have live and prerecorded classes online to teach you the principles and techniques of self-healing. We will be resuming in-person classes this month. Look for our new offering on the Corona Virus. Visit our website for more information.

SPIRITUALITY GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH 4040 West Bellfort Street Houston, TX 77025 713-666-1408 GraceInHouston.org

We are a welcoming, inclusive and affirming Christian community, committed to abundant, holistic living in the way of Jesus of Nazareth. Guided in our life together by the Episcopal Church tradition, we are committed a way of love. Come walk on our Tree of Life Labyrinth by appointment anytime. Grace: you are welcome here.

FIRST SPIRITUALIST CHURCH OF HOUSTON 2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Texas 77093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org

Spiritualism is a common sense religion, one of knowing and living. We accept all truths and endeavor to prove their validity. Truths are found in nature, in other religions, in writings, in science, in philosophy, in Natural Law and are received through spirit communication. We are a growing family and would love for you to visit us LIVESTREAMING ON FACEBOOK Sunday Healing & Spirit Greetings 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Open Healing Service 7:30 p.m.

THERMOGRAPHY Thermal Imaging Services

24550 Kingsland Blvd. Katy, TX 77494 713-621-4406 info@thermalimagingtexas.com thermalimagingtexas.com Thermography views what cannot be seen by the naked eye using a high definition infrared camera. It senses temperature patterns and changes which provide information for evaluation. Offering Full Body, Health with abdominal and Breast Study at our Katy location as well as limited dates in our satellite offices. Visit us online at thermalimagingtexas.com or phone us at 713-621-4406 See ad on page 13

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

WE GROW WHAT WE SELL ... organically and sustainably! This is the only way that we can be sure of the quality that goes into the products we sell and you should insist on nothing less. family owned and operated fully licensed hemp farm regenerative farming completely organic just outside of College Station Hemp Flower -Vape Products - Isolates -Tinctures HoneyHills TX products are available at the following area locations: Houston, TX: Smoke Envy - Yale, Smoke Envy - Nasa Rd 1, Amsterdam Coffee - W. 19th Galveston, TX:Hazy Days - Seawall Blvd, Hazy Days - The Strand, Hazy Days - 3802 Cove View Blvd , Smokees Vape & Smoke Shop - Seawall Blvd Caldwell, TX: Cotten’s Care CBD - Caldwell

Honey Hills TX

Est. 2019 - Caldwell, Texas 832.868.9452 honeyhillstx.com 32

APRIL 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Natural Awakenings Houston April 2021

Articles inside

plant-based wellness

calendar of events

letter from the publisher