Natural Awakenings South Jersey

Natural Awakenings South Jersey We're your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. There are several ways businesses can benefit from Natural Awakenings.

Our mission is to provide insights and information to improve the quality of life physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In each issue of Natural Awakenings magazine readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle. The South Jersey Natural Awake

nings magazine is part of a growing family of locally owned magazines reaching over 3.3 million readers in more than 80 cities and Puerto Rico. By being part of a larger network of magazines, we can provide the latest health and wellness information available through feature articles written by nationally-recognized authors, as well as articles by local experts. You can find Natural Awakenings Magazine in locations including local health food stores, fitness centers, book stores, health care facilities, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally available. Some of the obvious ways are as a distribution point, an advertiser or even a contributing writer.

Ever notice how your to-do list never ends, but you somehow get left off of it? The world glorifies being ‘busy,’ but ne...
09/27/2025

Ever notice how your to-do list never ends, but you somehow get left off of it? The world glorifies being ‘busy,’ but neglecting ourselves comes at a cost—our energy, our peace, our joy.

🌿 How often do you put your needs at the bottom of the list? We call it productivity, but sometimes it’s really forgetting that we matter too.

Self-care isn’t about bubble baths or luxury getaways—it’s about presence. It’s pausing long enough to ask, “What does my body, my heart, my mind need right now?” and then honoring that answer.

That might mean saying no to something that drains you, giving yourself permission to rest without guilt, or choosing to nourish your body with wholesome food. These small, intentional acts aren’t selfish.

They’re essential.

Because the better we care for ourselves, the more energy, clarity, and compassion we have to pour into the people and things we love most. 💜

When was the last time you truly listened to what your body and soul needed and said yes to yourself?

SWEET AND TART: THE JOYS OF HOMEMADE FRUIT SHRUBSA fruit shrub is a sweet and tart syrup made by combining fruit, sugar ...
09/26/2025

SWEET AND TART: THE JOYS OF HOMEMADE FRUIT SHRUBS

A fruit shrub is a sweet and tart syrup made by combining fruit, sugar and vinegar. Used for centuries as a way to keep nutrients alive, these tangy, fermented syrups are becoming popular again as irresistible additions to cocktails and mocktails, while also contributing to gut health.

Long before fruit shrubs became a trendy addition to modern beverages, fermenting fruits in alcohol or vinegar was one of humanity’s oldest preservation techniques potent elixirs that captured the fleeting abundance of summer harvests in shelf-stable form.

When winter’s grip tightened and fresh produce became scarce, these preserved fruits provided delicious flavors and vital nutrients. Today’s food enthusiasts celebrate fruit shrubs for their complexity and versatility in everything from sodas to salads and other inventive side dishes.

Health Benefits
Each ingredient in a fruit shrub plays a distinct role in both preservation and nutrition. “The vinegar component in shrubs is what helps preserve the fruits and keep them from spoiling,” explains Lea Ann Chen, assistant professor of gastroenterology at the Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. “However, the total amount of fruit in shrub recipes is relatively modest. Thus, the benefits of eating fresh fruits would be much higher. For example, fresh whole fruit contains fiber, which has many health benefits, but this is mostly missing in shrubs.”

Chen notes that the fruit in shrubs is nevertheless a source of certain vitamins, such as vitamin C in citrus fruits, while berries are also high in polyphenols, which offer anti-inflammatory properties. A 2021 Stanford University study published in the journal Cell found that consuming fermented foods may increase gut microbiome diversity and decrease inflammation, so the fermentation of fruit shrubs may be part of a gut-healthy diet.

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WILD RICE SIDE DISHYield: 6 to 8 servingsFor the vinaigrette 2 Tbsp pomegranate shrub2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil2 Tbsp...
09/25/2025

WILD RICE SIDE DISH

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

For the vinaigrette

2 Tbsp pomegranate shrub

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp shallots, finely chopped

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tsp honey or liquid sweetener

½ tsp fresh ginger, grated

½ tsp ground coriander

Kosher salt, to taste

Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

For the salad

1½ cup cooked wild rice

1 cup pomegranate arils (about one large pomegranate)

1 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped

½ cup parsley, coarsely chopped

In a small bowl, combine pomegranate shrub, olive oil, shallots, lemon zest, honey, ginger, coriander, salt and black pepper. Set aside.

Combine wild rice, pomegranate arils, pistachios and parsley in a serving bowl. Add dressing and toss to combine. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.



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BLANKET ANGELS AND KRISTY MCADAMS RETURN TO CENTER FOR LIVINGThe Center for Living, in Medford—formerly The Center, Life...
09/24/2025

BLANKET ANGELS AND KRISTY MCADAMS RETURN TO CENTER FOR LIVING

The Center for Living, in Medford—formerly The Center, Life in Balance—is bringing back the Blanket Angels program with the return of longtime co-host Kristy McAdams. After a near-death experience and a three-year recovery from head trauma, McAdams has resumed co-hosting Blanket Angels and leading new spiritual workshops at the center.

McAdams joined the center in 2013, offering psychic medium readings, crystal singing bowl meditations, mandala and canvas painting classes, angel workshops and co-hosting Blanket Angels—a community initiative making fleece-tie blankets for chemotherapy patients.

“Often in soul-centered work, the path can be a little unconventional because ‘not everyone gets it,’” says McAdams. “But the center provided a supportive community of people eager to encourage, learn and grow together.”

Reflecting on her recovery, she adds, “Those years taught me how precious our connections are and reminded me to focus on what truly lights up my soul.”

McAdams says Blanket Angels continues to guide her: “That simple act of giving—wrapping someone in warmth and kindness—still inspires me.”

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LEARN PRANIC HEALING: A KEY TO FULFILLMENTGolden Light Pranic Healing Center invites participants to discover the transf...
09/23/2025

LEARN PRANIC HEALING: A KEY TO FULFILLMENT

Golden Light Pranic Healing Center invites participants to discover the transformative power of energy healing at a two-day Pranic Healing class from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on November 15 and 16 in Cherry Hill. This no-touch healing system is open to anyone with a loving heart and a willingness to heal, providing an opportunity to learn energy anatomy, measure chakras and correct energy imbalances.

Developed by Master Choa Kok Sui, modern Pranic Healing is a comprehensive system that synthesizes both ancient and modern healing methods. Senior instructors personally trained by the founder will facilitate the class in a relaxed, retreat-like environment, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking and real-world examples. Attendees will gain practical skills in pranic first-aid, self-healing and distant healing. They will learn breathing exercises to generate energy, explore protocols for addressing physical and emotional ailments, and practice energy hygiene and prevention techniques.

A highlight of the class is Meditation on Twin Hearts, which aims to bring planetary peace and illumination. Students will leave feeling empowered to use their newfound skills to heal themselves and others.

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BALANCING THE GUT: INVESTING IN OUR INNER ECOSYSTEM“The gut is the first to encounter the universe, and it is the first ...
09/22/2025

BALANCING THE GUT: INVESTING IN OUR INNER ECOSYSTEM

“The gut is the first to encounter the universe, and it is the first line of defense between you and the universe,” says Dr. Madiha Saeed, a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell. Home to trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes, the digestive tract forms a complex ecosystem known as the gut microbiome, which influences many aspects of health.

Microbes perform numerous functions. They help break down food, produce essential nutrients, support the immune system and influence mood, cognition and overall well-being. Diet, stress, sleep, medications and environmental exposures shape the makeup of our gut microbiota, which, in turn, impact the body’s propensity for health or disease. Efforts to restore and nurture gut health offer opportunities for us to enhance our well-being through simple lifestyle changes.

Gut Microbiome Basics

The intestinal environment is constantly changing, with new microbes entering and others disappearing daily, creating a dynamic community of tiny organisms that is unique to every individual. Different species have specialized roles. For instance, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii lowers inflammation by nourishing gut cells, while Akkermansia muciniphilamaintains the gut lining by breaking down mucus and supporting helpful bacteria. Each person hosts approximately 1,000 distinct microbial species, while humanity collectively harbors more than 10,000 species.

Like a garden, the gut microbiome contains a mix of helpful and harmful organisms. Beneficial microbes behave like healthy plants, supporting digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function. When cared for, these helpful organisms thrive, while also helping to keep harmful microbes (weeds) under control.

Our intestinal garden is shaped by ho

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DR. KEVIN MCMENAMIN JOINS HEALTH GOALS CHIROPRACTICHealth Goals Chiropractic and Wellness Center, in Marlton, recently w...
09/22/2025

DR. KEVIN MCMENAMIN JOINS HEALTH GOALS CHIROPRACTIC

Health Goals Chiropractic and Wellness Center, in Marlton, recently welcomed Dr. Kevin McMenamin, an experienced chiropractor specializing in care of active individuals and sports-related injuries. With five years of clinical practice in South and Central New Jersey, McMenamin is highly skilled in diversified, Thompson drop, flexion-distraction, spinal decompression and soft tissue therapies. He is dedicated to helping patients move better, feel stronger and stay active through personalized treatment plans.

McMenamin earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida, following his undergraduate studies in health and exercise science at Rowan University, where he also played four years of baseball. His athletic background allows him to understand the unique physical demands faced by athletes and active patients alike.

A passionate supporter of Philadelphia sports, McMenamin enjoys golf, spending time with his family at the shore and maintaining an active lifestyle outside of his professional work.

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THE GUT MICROBIOMEDigestive disturbances such as constipation or diarrhea are issues most individuals experience at some...
09/18/2025

THE GUT MICROBIOME

Digestive disturbances such as constipation or diarrhea are issues most individuals experience at some point. On one end of the spectrum, one may feel uncomfortably backed up—unable to have a bowel movement. On the other, one may find themselves dealing with persistent urgency and frequent trips to the restroom.

While there are many potential causes, one often overlooked factor is the type and dosage of mineral supplements—particularly calcium and magnesium.

Avoiding Constipation

A common contributor to constipation is the use of calcium carbonate, a widely available and convenient form of calcium supplementation. While effective, calcium carbonate alters the pH of the digestive tract. In high doses, it can cause calcium salts to precipitate in the gut, slowing down movement and leading to constipation.

To help prevent this “traffic jam”, consider using a different form of calcium, such as calcium citrate, or divide daily intake into smaller doses taken throughout the day. Taking calcium with meals may also improve absorption and ease digestion.

Curbing Diarrhea

Magnesium, another essential mineral, can have the opposite effect. Magnesium citrate, in particular, is known for its laxative properties and is often used to prepare the bowel for procedures like colonoscopies. In high doses, magnesium can accelerate gut motility, leading to loose stools or diarrhea.

To minimize this effect, try taking smaller, more frequent doses of magnesium throughout the day, preferably with meals. This not only helps with absorption, but may also reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

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No matter what challenges you’re facing, giving yourself time to pause, recharge, and reconnect is essential. Life moves...
09/17/2025

No matter what challenges you’re facing, giving yourself time to pause, recharge, and reconnect is essential. Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in stress, routines, and responsibilities. But when you create space for the things you’re passionate about — the activities that ground you and bring you back to the present moment — you invite balance and clarity back into your life.

A reset day isn’t wasted time. It’s a powerful reminder that your well-being matters. Whether it’s reading a book, practicing yoga, walking in nature, journaling, or simply breathing deeply in silence — these small rituals are what keep you aligned.

So take your reset days without guilt. You deserve them. Because when you come back to the now, you come back to yourself.

THE CENTER FOR LIVING: CORY TAPPERNestled in the heart of Main Street amid the colonial charm of historic Medford Villag...
09/16/2025

THE CENTER FOR LIVING: CORY TAPPER

Nestled in the heart of Main Street amid the colonial charm of historic Medford Village, a quiet yet meaningful evolution is underway. In a building that has long served as a haven for rest, ritual and renewal, a new steward has arrived to carry its legacy into the future.

Cory Tapper—guided by intuition, fueled by purpose and shaped by years of experience—is stepping into the circle of a cherished wellness community, lovingly cultivated by the respected healer Susan Drummond.

“The Center has always been a place of profound healing and transformation, thanks to Susan’s vision and the love she poured into Life in Balance as its founder,” Tapper says. “As I take on this role, I do so with deep respect for all she created. Renaming it The Center for Living represents both
continuity and growth—a way to honor the soul of Susan’s work while opening space for new energy, ideas and possibilities. I’m so grateful that she will continue to be an integral part of this journey as a healer and guiding presence.”

Tapper’s vision for The Center for Living begins with a fresh digital presence—launching a new, user-friendly website that will streamline registration, simplify payments and make it easier than ever to explore the center’s rich lineup of workshops and events. She also plans to welcome a diverse group of new practitioners specializing in somatic healing, voice movement, life coaching, Kabbalah study along with both book and lyric clubs.

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CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION AT LIVE IN JOY’S BIRTHDAY BASHLive in Joy Yoga & Wellness, in Audubon, will celebrate...
09/16/2025

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION AT LIVE IN JOY’S BIRTHDAY BASH

Live in Joy Yoga & Wellness, in Audubon, will celebrate another year of community and healing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 27 with a free gathering featuring healing sessions, classes and an exciting announcement.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., guests can enjoy free mini-sessions and sample classes offered every half hour, including tai chi, yin yoga and more. The festivities continue from 1 to 4 p.m. with tarot readings, mini Thai bodywork, angelic reiki, light refreshments, community games like Pin the Tail on the Ganesh and door prizes.

“We’re inviting the entire community—past and present—to join us for a day of connection, healing and a special announcement you won’t want to miss,” says co-owner Sharon Plower. “It’s a great chance to explore different styles, meet our teachers and practitioners, and just have fun.”

She adds, “Whether you’re a current student, a yoga teacher training graduate, a former instructor or brand new, this is a chance to reconnect and celebrate the heart of our studio.”

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Marlton, NJ

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