December 2024

Inside the December 2024 edition of Natural Awakenings Greater Boston/Rhode Island: Soulful Holiday Gifts, Healing Chronic Illness from the Inside Out, Reconnecting Through Experiences, Something To Smile, Healthier Holiday Cookies, Online Shopping Boosts Neighborhood Businesses and more.

Creating Meaningful Memories

As December rolls in, I’m reminded of how this season, even with all its hustle and bustle, still finds a way to offer moments for slowing down, reflecting and connecting. Between holiday gatherings and the quiet calm of winter evenings, Read More »

Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri Tour Comes to New England

Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Amma’s senior-most disciple, will conduct a free public program from 6 to 9 p.m. on December 7, 2024, at the New England Shirdi Sai Temple, in Groton, Massachusetts. Read More »

Celebrate the Season by Giving Back and Saving

Through Johnson Compounding and Wellness' sixth annual holiday toy and supply drive, running until December 10, 2024, those who donate items will receive a 15 percent discount on one non-sale item for each donation made. Read More »

Cleanses Are Temporary, but Cellular Health is Forever

In lieu of temporary, possibly detrimental cleanses and detoxes, there’s another option: ongoing cellular rejuvenation through nourishing foods and lifestyle. Read More »

Design Your Year to Thrive in 2025

Kim Childs, owner of Take the Leap Coaching, in Arlington, Massachusetts, will host Design Your Year to Thrive in 2025 from 6 to 7 p.m. January 5, 2025, via Zoom. Read More »

Dr. Darien Lesicko Joins Anasa Personalized Medicine

Dr. Darien Lesicko a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Craniosacral Therapy Level 2 practitioner, utilizes functional lab testing, homeopathy, nutraceuticals and botanical medicine to find and treat the root cause of disease. Read More »

Edible Rhody Seeks New Publisher

Edible Rhody covering the best of the state’s food culture, from farm-to-table features to local recipes and stories, is seeking a new publisher to acquire the license for the Rhode Island Edible territory.. Read More »

Fresh From Nantucket: Healthy Flavor With Every Bite

Fresh—a vibrant and innovative dining concept—will soon be joining CanalSide, the new food hall featuring waterfront views at 100 Cambridgeside Place in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Read More »

Healing Chronic Illness from the Inside Out

The truth is our bodies are homeostatic. This means that we have a self-regulating system that is always striving for balance, healing and to stay alive. Read More »

KMA Organizing: Clearing Space and Calming Minds

Katy Annulli, founder of KMA Organizing, knows firsthand how organization can transform mental health. With a compassionate, personalized approach, she helps clients create calm and control in both physical and digital spaces. Read More »

Naturepedic Claims Good Housekeeping 2024 Parenting Award

Naturepedic’s Breathable Organic Crib Mattress addresses the top concerns related to crib mattresses—breathability, certified organic materials, hygienic design, allergy-friendliness and a firm, flat surface. Read More »

Preparations are Underway for 2025 Empowering Health and Wellness Expo

The Rhode Island Holistic Healing Association (RIHHA) will present the 2025 Empowering Health and Wellness Expo on March 23, 2025, at Crowne Plaza, in Warwick, Rhode Island. Read More »

Rebalance Your Routine Accepts New Coverage Options for Functional Lab Testing

Jessica Liggero is now accepting Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) payments for most functional labs at her practice Rebalance Your Routine. Read More »

Reconnecting Through Experiences: Shifting the Holiday Focus from Gifts to Lasting Memories

This holiday season, shift the focus from expensive gifts to unforgettable experiences that create lasting memories. Read More »

Spread Holiday Cheer with Thoughtful Gifts from Nature’s Goodness

Nature’s Goodness Natural Food Store, in Middletown, Rhode Island, has handpicked treasures, from cozy treats to thoughtful finds for everyone you love this year. Read More »

INTERACTIVE: December 2024 Natural Awakenings Crossword Puzzle

Read This Month's Articles for Clues Read More »

pampering gifts

Soulful Holiday Gifts: Restorative Presents for Loved Ones

The holiday season can be stressful, but self-care is essential. From pampering spa days to thoughtful gestures, learn how to gift and prioritize peace this festive season. Read More »

Jean Shafiroff on A Philanthropist’s Calling

Jean Shafiroff, philanthropist and author of Successful Philanthropy, shares insights on giving back, inspiring others, and finding purpose through generosity. Read More »

holiday baking supplies

Healthier Holiday Cookies: Easy Switches That Don’t Compromise on Taste

Delight in holiday cookies with a healthy twist! Discover sugar swaps, gluten-free tips, and wholesome ingredients for festive treats that are indulgent yet nourishing. Read More »

Molasses Cookies with Dates

Molasses Cookies With Dates

Indulge in these spiced molasses cookies. Made with almond flour, ginger, cinnamon, and sweetened naturally with dates and molasses, they’re a wholesome holiday favorite. Read More »

Thumbprint Cookies with Jam

Thumbprint Cookies With Jam

Savor these delightful vegan thumbprint cookies. Made with almond and whole wheat flour, they're filled with fruity preserves for a festive and wholesome treat perfect for sharing. Read More »

Chocolate Coffee Cookies

Chocolate Coffee Cookies

Enjoy these rich, vegan chocolate nut cookies. Packed with dark chocolate, pecans, and hazelnuts, they're a decadent treat perfect for the holidays or any occasion. Read More »

Chewy Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies

Chewy Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies

Indulge in these guilt-free, vegan chocolate chip cookies with a nutty twist! Packed with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, oats, and dark chocolate, they're perfect for holiday baking. Read More »

fireworks sparklers held by a group

From Melancholy to Sweet Remembrance

The holidays can stir nostalgia for what never was, yet healing comes through creating new traditions and finding joy in the present. Explore ways to soothe the holiday blues. Read More »

woman holiday shopping

Click Local: How Online Shopping Boosts Neighborhood Businesses

Support your community while enjoying online convenience. Discover how local businesses combine personal service with digital tools to thrive in today's shopping landscape. Read More »

12 Ways to Fitness

These exercises, you can develop strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance, making them a well-rounded routine for overall fitness. Read More »

teeth whitening at dentist

Something To Smile About: A Look at Non-Toxic Dental Products

Natural dental care is transforming oral hygiene. From fluoride alternatives to microbiome-friendly practices, explore a healthier, eco-conscious smile revolution. Read More »

baby girl walking on a tactile mat

Practicing Sensory Skills at Home: How To Teach Kids the Senses

Boost your child's sensory skills with fun games and activities. From "Eye Spy" to sensory bins and interoception exercises, discover ways to nurture confidence and curiosity. Read More »

cat and dog looking out a window

Caring for Anxious Pets While We’re Away: How To Choose the Right Kennel or Pet Sitter

Discover expert tips on easing anxiety in pets when you're away, from choosing experienced sitters to holistic calming strategies like CBD and soothing scents. Read More »

service dog with veteran

Service Dogs Benefit Veterans With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A study of veterans with PTSD found those with trained psychiatric service dogs showed reduced symptoms, lower anxiety, and better social functioning. Read More »

acupuncture needles

Acupuncture for Shingles

Acupuncture shows promise as a safe, effective treatment for shingles, easing pain and reducing skin lesions, according to a review of 59 trials with nearly 4,000 patients. Read More »

wet cupping therapy (WCT) for asthma

Wet Cupping Therapy for Asthma

Wet cupping therapy may improve respiratory symptoms in mild to moderate asthma, offering a complementary option alongside standard treatments, a Turkish study suggests. Read More »

stem cell in lab test tube

Stem-Cell Treatment To Reverse Type 1 Diabetes

A phase 1 trial shows promise for reversing Type 1 diabetes: a patient produced insulin independently after stem-cell therapy, remaining injection-free for a year. Read More »

Mindfulness App Helps Intensive Care Patients

A mobile app-based mindfulness program, including guided meditations and symptom management, significantly eased psychological distress in ICU survivors, a study finds. Read More »

Artificial Beaver Dams Protect Wildlife

Artificial beaver dams, mimicking nature’s designs, are revitalizing the Northern Great Plains, restoring ecosystems, improving soil and water, and even attracting real beavers. Read More »

person sweating after exertion

Sweat Monitor Measures Overexertion

A smart elastic band from Northwestern University tracks muscle exertion by analyzing sweat acidity, helping users optimize workouts and prevent soreness. Read More »

insect-eating bat

Linking Biodiversity to Human Health

Biodiversity loss has human costs: a study links declining bat populations to increased pesticide use and higher infant mortality, highlighting nature's role in health and agriculture. Read More »

little boy funny scientist

Funny but Serious Science

The Ig Nobel Prizes celebrated quirky science: researchers showed mammals can breathe through their anuses, and a plant that mimics plastic leaves, sparking laughter and curiosity. Read More »

natural soap bars

Benefits of Bars

Switch to shampoo, conditioner, and dish soap bars for a greener routine. Cut plastic waste, save money, and enjoy natural ingredients with these eco-friendly, long-lasting alternatives. Read More »

SOLUTION: December 2024 Natural Awakenings Crossword Puzzle

Find the solution key to December 2024's Crossword Puzzle here. Read More »