Dear Readers: Here’s a quick round up of some of our favorite articles from this month! As always, we look forward to presenting you with up to date news and information about holistic events, health and well being from both the scientific and the spiritual perspectives, nutrition, vegan lifestyles, and more.

This Month’s Recommended Merlian News Articles:

Merryn’s Musings by Merryn Jose
Earthing: Reconnecting to the Power of the Earth

I first heard of “Earthing,” the concept of connecting to and gaining energy from direct contact with the Earth, several years ago. I learned that the ancient yogis and Christian mystics knew about this great source of power and for that reason developed practices that involved going out into caves or the desert and sleeping on the ground. It not only improved their meditations but reportedly healed sickness and extended longevity.

Liminal Moments by Cheryl Shainmark
The Booming Market for Meat Alternatives

White Castle and Fat Burger now feature Impossible Burgers, Del Taco has Beyond Meat on the menu, and Burger King is about to roll out a Beyond Meat Whopper. Hard Rock Cafes in Europe carry a veggie burger now, (though you’d have to skip the cheese to make it a vegan meal), and they expect to offer it in their US locations next year. Even if you’re not a vegan or a fast food fan, the variety of meat alternatives is great news as many grocery stores and regular restaurants have also added plant based options to meet growing customer demand. According to Market Insider, the $14 billion dollar meat alternative industry is expected to grow to $140 billion over the next decade.

Wellbeing & Healing
A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing: Practical Strategies to Feel Your Best Every Day by Dylan Foster

True well-being isn’t just about hitting the gym or eating clean—it’s about nurturing your entire self: mind, body, and soul. A holistic approach means considering all aspects of your life, from your daily habits to your emotional landscape. It’s about balance, not perfection. The key is weaving small, meaningful changes into your routine that create a lasting impact. When you address well-being from multiple angles, you unlock a deeper sense of vitality, clarity, and joy. Here’s how to bring holistic wellness into your everyday life.

Meditation
Merlian News Podcast with Teresa Hale on Meditation 

Teresa Hale began teaching Meditation and Yoga over 40 years ago. Her exploration in this field led to the creation of The Hale Clinic – the world’s leading complementary health center, where she continued to deepen her understanding and practice of Meditation and Yoga. Teresa has had direct experience of how Meditation can be applied to a whole range of situations including Health, Creativity, Mental Ability, Reduction of Stress, the Workplace and Scientific Research. She also has a deep interest in the Philosophical and Spiritual aspects of Meditation.

Website of the Month
www.holdenqigong.com

Books
Ready, Set, Slow by Lee Holden 

Ready, Set, Slow – How to Improve Your Energy, Health, and Relationships Through the Power of Slow is truly inspirational. The author, Qi Gong master Lee Holden, makes a strong case for his methods, and the transformational benefits that come from incorporating these changes into our lives. From the book we read: “There’s too much at stake not to slow down. By slowing down, you’ll gain time, energy, focus, and clarity.” The idea that slowing down can lead to more productivity may sound too good to be true, but research confirms it does this and more―if only we can figure out a way to apply it in our everyday lives.

Thank you once more, for your positive feed back and support!

Merryn Jose – Editor In Chief & Publisher
Cheryl Shainmark – Senior Editor