We are grateful for the hundreds of practitioners and providers of natural living, holistic health and inspired living services and products in our area. After more than 10 years of being with Natural Awakenings, we have had the great opportunity to get to know most of them—and we’ve come to consider them our teachers. 

The second Emerald Coast Holistic Health Expo on March 11 and 12 gives everyone in the community the same opportunity to mingle with local natural health experts, sample cutting-edge services and the newest products, and simply enjoy a fun day.

We will begin the weekend by giving back, as we’re hosting the PUSH Challenge supporting the Boot Campaign, an organization that provides veterans state-of-the-art healing services. From 8:30 a.m. to noon in Ross Marler Park, you can participate in any of the four PUSH challenges offered, competing as an individual or together with your team. Register ahead of time, ask your friends and family to help you raise funds as you compete, and then choose your challenge: compete in a CrossFit relay; hold a specific yoga pose as long as you can; or do as many Pilates mat movements or push-ups as you can in 90 seconds.

Inside the expo, you can learn about the latest advances in holistic health by attending sponsored presentations provided by functional medicine MDs and natural medicine specialists, or take part in hands-on activities by purchasing a pass for unlimited workshops. Create essential oils for reflexology enhancement, animal care, daily living and a better night’s sleep. Explore advances in natural pain care, experience acupuncture’s balancing benefits or learn how a naturopath can change your health. Participate in an award-winning yoga and meditation program or some of the most unique fitness programs offered on the Emerald Coast, like calming yoga for kids, trauma recovery yoga, creative dance movement, and qigong for sexual health. Find out the latest information on gut health and hormone balancing. Learn how water can help you achieve your dreams. Plus, discover the medicinal benefits of massage and a simple way to adjust your spine and open your body to wellness.

Plan to taste some delicious and nutritious food; try the highest cannabinoid and terpene products; check out the benefits of infrared sauna; peruse an assortment of natural makeup, jewelry and crystals; and sample a variety of skin-care products. Learn about thermography, and make sure you book your comprehensive health screening. Step outside to pick up some organic produce, coffee, tea, honey, fermented veggies or kefir to go. Or just relax while you enjoy a massage or Healing Touch treatment. 

Be sure to register early for your free fast pass; the first 500 attendees receive a complimentary eco-tote! Outdoor activities begin at 8:30 a.m., presentations and workshops start at 9:30 a.m., and the exhibit hall and market area open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday. Keep up with the most current details on our website, ECHHExpo.com, and check out the program guide starting on page 47. It’s going to be a fun-filled day. 

This event is truly where Natural Awakenings comes to life! 

Scott and Daralyn Chase