Natural Awakenings Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA (2025)

07/12/2025

THE POWER OF OUTDOOR PLAY: EXPANDING A CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT WITH THE HELP OF MOTHER NATURE

Children are naturally curious. They ask questions, dig in dirt and chase butterflies—not because they have to, but because they are wired to explore. The outdoors acts as a rich learning environment, brimming with sensory experiences, challenges and discoveries. Numerous studies corroborate what many parents and educators already sense: Outdoor play is vital to a child’s physical, cognitive and emotional development.

“The simple act of walking barefoot on the earth, feeling the breeze or placing hands in the soil anchors children in the present moment, calming racing thoughts and settling restless bodies,” says Tara Beall-Gomes, a therapist, certified school counselor and founder of Main Street Counseling, in Connecticut.

A 2019 study published in Frontiers in Psychology reported that children that spent more time in nature displayed improved executive functioning, which encompasses essential skills such as planning, decision-making and problem-solving. The researchers observed that even brief periods of unstructured outdoor play significantly boosted working memory and attention spans in young children.

“What I have found in my own life is that Mother Nature nurtures and heals,” says Terry Murphy, founder of The Healing Chickadee, a grief program for children. “The energy of the trees, flowers, shrubs and grass feeds our souls. My grandkids crave the outdoors, and it brings about a sense of wonder and a deep serenity.”

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07/11/2025

EDIBLE LANDSCAPES: CREATING REGENERATIVE SUSTENANCE

The world’s agriculture is largely reliant on the cultivation of single crops upon sizable tracts of land for staples like wheat, corn, soybeans and rice. Known as monoculture, this approach offers efficiency and low-cost produce, but it also carries significant ecological consequences, including the depletion of soil nutrients, ground pollution, increased carbon emissions, water scarcity, crop failures and the loss of pollinators due to degraded ecosystems.

One promising sustainable alternative is the development of decentralized food forests in small, local settings like rural backyards, urban parks, roadsides and vacant lots. Based on agroforestry—the practice of integrating trees and shrubs with diverse crops—food forests simulate the verticality of a forest while creating highly diverse ecosystems comprised of tiers of edible plants.

According to Science Mill, a Texas-based nonprofit that promotes scientific exploration and education, the ideal food forest is comprised of multiple layers, including a canopy of large fruit and nut trees, an understory of dwarf fruit trees, shrubs such as blueberries or currants, perennials and herbaceous plants, ground cover plants like creeping thyme, root crops and climbing vines.

These regenerative, edible landscapes replenish themselves, eliminating the need for annual replanting. Harmonious crops work as a symphonic whole, naturally repelling pests and fortifying the soil. The resulting benefits include water conservation, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, thriving pollinator populations, bolstered local economies and a reduction of food transportation costs.

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07/10/2025

UNDERSTANDING SPIKE PROTEINS THE LINGERING THREAT BEHIND LONG COVID

When COVID-19 swept across the globe, scientists quickly identified the “spike protein” as a critical component of the virus. This spike-shaped structure on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus enables it to attach to and invade human cells, particularly those with ACE2 receptors found in the lungs, heart, brain, gut and other organs. While the acute phase of infection may resolve, growing evidence suggests that spike proteins can persist in the body and continue to drive symptoms long after the virus is gone—a condition now commonly referred to as Long COVID.

Spike Proteins
Spike proteins are glycoproteins that protrude from the surface of the coronavirus. Their primary function is to bind to host cells, allowing viral RNA to enter and hijack cellular machinery to replicate. This interaction, while vital for viral replication, also sets off a cascade of immune responses that can lead to inflammation and tissue damage. Even after the body clears the active virus, fragments of spike proteins may remain lodged in tissues or continue circulating in extracellular vesicles. These remnants can act like splinters, irritating the immune system, creating oxidative stress and disrupting normal cellular function.

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07/09/2025

In a world that constantly pushes us to rush, perform, and produce, choosing to pause becomes a radical act of self-love. A warm cup of tea. The sound of birds in the morning. The feeling of sunlight on your skin. These small, quiet moments often hold the greatest magic.

When we allow ourselves to slow down, we reconnect—with our breath, our bodies, and what truly matters. We stop measuring our worth by how busy we are and start measuring it by how present we feel.

You don’t have to earn your rest. You don’t need permission to enjoy your life.
Every moment you slow down is an invitation back to yourself.
So take a deep breath today. Step outside. Put your phone down for a while. Savor the little joys that surround you—the ones that don’t cost anything but your attention.

Life is happening now. And sometimes, the most beautiful parts are the ones we almost miss.

07/08/2025

PROTEIN-FORWARD BREAKFASTS: STARTING THE DAY STRONG

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 85 percent of Americans aged 20 and older consume breakfast daily, with eggs being a common component. Eating protein during the first meal of the day can help us feel full longer, balance blood sugar levels and potentially alleviate chronic anxiety. In addition to complex carbohydrates, fiber and heathy fats, the Mayo Clinic recommends that a nutritious breakfast always include lean protein.

“Protein is the master synthesizer, essential in its role in muscle building, immune function and energy balance,” says Melissa Halas, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator in California. “Including protein early in the day helps prevent the common energy dip mid-morning and keeps satiety levels high, supporting healthy metabolism and preventing overeating later.” Protein requirements increase during periods of stress, recovery from injury or surgery, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and life stages such as childhood, adolescence and the golden years.

Thinking Outside the Cereal Box

Typical sweet cereals favored by kids often contain a high sugar content of 12 grams per cup, which is half of the daily recommended added sugar allowance for young children, as outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Replacing low-nutrient, high-carbohydrate choices like white-flour pancakes and sugary cereal with delicious, plant-based scrambles, naturally sweet or savory breakfast bowls and delectable fruit parfaits can be both simple and satisfying.

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07/07/2025

THE NEW CYCLE OF INNOVATION: HOW TECH IS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF BICYCLING

Cycling is more about the journey than the destination. Bikes are constantly evolving, offering more streamlined rides to engage cyclists of all ability levels. Recent trends include the rise of gravel bikes and electric bikes, advancements in tubeless tires and the increasing integration of technology. For riders that want to explore challenging terrain or upgrade their daily commute, there are numerous options for safer and more connected bikes that offer an enjoyable experience.

Gravel Bicycles
Multi-surface gravel bikes are built to explore unpaved roads, striking a balance between the lightweight feel of road bikes and the off-road capability of mountain bikes. Gretchen Brauer, general manager of Wheel & Sprocket, a cycling outfitter in Evanston, Illinois, attributes the growing popularity of gravel bikes to their enhanced versatility, increased safety and superior comfort on rough terrain.

“Gravel bikes can be ridden almost anywhere—on and off-road,” she explains. “The key features are slacker geometries, a longer wheelbase and higher stack heights, which increase the comfort factor and provide better visibility. Wider road tires enable riders to navigate over all sorts of surfaces.”

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07/06/2025

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 on July 26 and 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., 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 Master Choa Kok Sui 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 how to apply protocols for various physical and emotional ailments, and practice prevention and energy hygiene.

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

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07/05/2025

CRACK THE CODE TO PERSONAL GROWTH AT THE 5MQ INTELLIGENCE EVENT

Spiritual mentor and intuitive Dawn Ricci brings a surprising twist to the world of personal transformation: She’s a former private investigator. Years spent uncovering hidden connections and solving complex cases led her to a powerful realization—the same investigative methods could be applied to inner work with profound results.

Ricci developed the 5MQ Intelligence System to help others move beyond surface-level advice and into deep, lasting change. On July 17, she will share her signature method during a free virtual event designed for individuals seeking breakthroughs in health, relationships, business, finances or purpose-driven living.

The 5MQ Intelligence System combines principles of neuroscience and manifestation into a clear, step-by-step process that eliminates guesswork and delivers personalized, actionable guidance. Participants will learn how to access intuitive clarity, identify patterns that may be blocking progress and create forward momentum—without relying on trial and error.

“People struggle with generic advice that leads nowhere,” Ricci says. “My investigative background taught me to eliminate guesswork and follow what actually works.”

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07/04/2025

This Independence Day, let’s celebrate more than fireworks and freedom—let’s celebrate the power of living with purpose, wellness, and joy. Whether you're spending today at the beach, hosting a family picnic, or taking a quiet walk in nature, may this day remind you of the simple pleasures that make life meaningful.

Freedom is more than a word—it’s the ability to choose how we nourish our bodies, protect our planet, and connect with each other.

Let’s honor that freedom with gratitude, mindful moments, and a renewed commitment to our health and the health of our communities.

07/03/2025

SUN-KISSED, NOT STRESSED: KEYS TO PROTECTING AND REPLENISHING SUMMER SKIN

As summer’s longer days encourage outdoor activities, we face heightened exposure to solar radiation and other environmental irritants. Skin protection becomes a priority, and conventional options often employ synthetic ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin and cause adverse environmental effects. Natural alternatives offer a gentler and more sustainable approach to maintaining healthy and resilient skin all season long.

Summer protection extends beyond aesthetic and physiological considerations. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, individuals of all ages are susceptible to skin cancer, with about one in five Americans developing the condition during their lifetime. Because solar radiation can cause burns, skin cancer and premature aging, avoiding the most intense rays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., seeking shade, applying sunscreen and wearing wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing are some of the easiest safeguards.

Protective Ingredients
During the summer months, the skin takes a beating from heat, sweat, sun exposure and frequent washing, so using products that both soothe and restore balance is important. Natural ingredients, including oatmeal, honey and lavender, offer gentle yet powerful options for protecting and soothing skin.

Oatmeal locks in moisture, eases inflammation and soothes irritation caused by sun exposure or sweat, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When finely ground into what is known as colloidal oatmeal, its efficacy is amplified, forming a protective barrier that hydrates and calms sensitive skin. Its popularity in creams, lotions and sunburn treatments stems from inherent anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.

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07/02/2025

THE MICROADVENTURE MINDSET: FINDING NATURAL SPLENDOR CLOSE TO HOME

While many of us dream of epic journeys to faraway places, humbler excursions can also provide unforgettable memories and experiences. British adventurer and bestselling author Alastair Humphreys coined the term “microadventure” to describe a brief and inexpensive outdoor jaunt close to home. From a weekend getaway on a nearby hiking trail to an afternoon visit at a local park, microadventures offer flexible scheduling, budget-friendly options, health benefits and a deeper connection to Mother Earth.

“I think that microadventures are popular right now because we are short on time, and money is tight for many people,” says Humphreys, a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year. “We are ridiculously busy in our daily lives, but we are also craving the physical and mental respite of time in nature—fresh air, exercise and time away from our cursed phones. It’s great to have the adventure of a lifetime, but until that lucky opportunity comes around, why not try to have a lifetime filled with tiny little experiences squeezed around the margins of busy daily life?”

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07/01/2025

𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗨𝗕𝗟𝗜𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗥

Have you ever noticed how much the weather can set the tone for our moods? This summer, it’s been especially apparent. With what felt like a record number of rainy weekends to kick things off, many of us were starting to feel a bit… well, waterlogged. And then—just like that—the sun appeared, and suddenly everything shifted. The world looked brighter, spirits lifted and plans (finally) moved off the “weather permitting” list.

There’s something undeniably powerful about stepping outside and feeling that first true stretch of sunshine. Sidewalk cafés buzz to life, trails and parks fill with energy and even the daily commute seems a little less daunting. Nature has a way of recalibrating us—reminding us to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what matters.

This month, we’re embracing all the goodness the outdoors has to offer. Our feature story, “The Microadventure Mindset: Finding Natural Splendor Close to Home,” introduces the concept of small, local adventures that can bring just as much joy and meaning as a faraway vacation. Coined by British adventurer and bestselling author Alastair Humphreys, the term “microadventure” refers to those brief, accessible getaways—like a walk in a new park or a night under the stars—that reignite our sense of wonder without requiring a suitcase or passport.

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Natural Awakenings Philadelphia

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