Inspirational Thought for Today
Hope is here for me every day
We've Moved!
- Center Point Healing7309 Baltimore Avenue
Suite 120
College Park, MD 207401-301-277-9020 Hours
MonClosedTue10:30 am – 6:00 pmWed10:30 am – 6:00 pmThu10:30 am – 5:30 pmFri9:00 am – 4:00 pmSat9:00 am – 4:00 pmSunClosedI work alternate Fridays and Saturdays.
- Testimonials
I heard about Susan at Center Point Healing from a Doctor for natural medicine all the way in Florida. I was in so much pain all over from my neck down. Taking 1,000 mg of Tylenol daily for two months. I have always been a healthy eater. My para thyroid was out of balance and I was told that that it had to be removed surgically. A friend told me about trying Natural medicine and Acupuncture. It has been a
... Read more »Elizabeth is an outstanding acupuncturist. I saw her two years ago for specific physical problems and am continuing to work with her as I address larger life issues. As a movement analyst and teacher, I admire the effective blend of professional skills and personal qualities that Elizabeth brings to her work; and, as a patient, I deeply appreciate the results. Her ability to be warmly receptive and genuinely present with me, and at the same time to also be keenly
... Read more »Elizabeth is WONDERFUL! I have been seeing her for a little over one year. As she promotes on her website, she is present with you and where you are. She loves her practice, is kind and smart and funny and oh-so-caring about your situation without breaching any professional boundaries. Elizabeth has soft hands and a very gentle touch. She is one of the MAJOR BLESSINGS in my life. Her office is a calm oasis and I look forward to EVERY
... Read more »Elizabeth is truly a gem. I have struggled with an auto-immune disease for about six years. After meeting so many “challenging” people in the medical community, she is a HUGE breath of fresh air. She genuinely cares, and she simply knows what she is doing.
I have felt much better, and my “western” doctors have been amazed with my standard progress-according-to-blood-tests. She is not extreme or out there, but securely down to earth and logical. And I can’t emphasize her
... Read more »It is with a very high praise that I recommend Elizabeth Fellows to you, I have had in the past, some experience with acupuncture and I can say that working with Elizabeth has been a pleasure, and her competence in this field has been demonstrated to me in the course of my treatments. She not only has demonstrated a high degree of technical competence but also her willingness to be present during all of my treatments as a fully human
... Read more »I love Center Point Healing. I have been a patient here since April 2007. From the time I first walked through the doors at Center Point Healing, Elizabeth Fellows has made me feel as if I was her only patient. Before she begins treating you , she sits with you each visit from approximately five minutes and discuss your issues, symptoms, your week’s major points, and/or whatever is on your mind. With this information she tailor’s your treatment to what
... Read more »Elizabeth Fellows is a wonderful acupuncturist. She has helped me with several health issues as well as just gaining a feeling of general well-being. My treatment times have been the most relaxing time of the week for me.
S.M., Springdale, Maryland
Elizabeth provides great service. She asks questions to ascertain any medical issues you have and really listens to what you say. Her treatment plan is holistic and I can say that the overall quality of my health has improved. I will continue to use her services.
S.B., Hyattsville, Maryland
Acupuncture has been a godsend to my life. Prior to coming to you for treatment, I was one of the biggest skeptics around. I had been on medication after medication and even tried herbal teas and foot soaks but nothing has compared to the relief that I’ve gotten from acupuncture treatments. Though I have a long way to go, I would rather do it safely and this has proven to be just that. Your positive and caring attitude has taken
... Read more »I have been seeing Elizabeth for over a year. She is a highly intuitive, thoroughly professional practitioner. Her office is warm and inviting. Her acupuncture treatments have served me well in many ways, physically and emotionally.
There have been a number of immediate improvements to my well being along the way, and the long term benefits have been remarkable. I would highly recommend her.
P. S., Hyattsville, Maryland
Like us on Facebook!
Follow Us!
-
Latest Articles:
- • The Best Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun This Summer •
- • Savoring Summer with Recipes Using the Best Summer Ingredients •
- • Top 5 Best Staycation Ideas for Summer •
Health Well News
The Best Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun This Summer
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no denying the allure of summer. Whether you’re planning beach vacations, poolside hangouts, or outdoor adventures, spending time in the sun can lift your mood, boost vitamin D levels, and create lifelong memories. But with all that fun comes a serious responsibility: protecting your skin.
Sun exposure, especially during the intense summer months, is the number one cause of premature aging and the leading cause of skin cancer. The good news? With a few smart habits and the right tools, you can enjoy the sunshine safely. Here’s how to protect your skin from harmful UV rays without sacrificing your summer plans.
Use a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Every Day
Let’s start with the golden rule: wear sunscreen daily, even if it’s cloudy or you’re spending time indoors near windows. UV rays can penetrate clouds and glass, meaning your skin is still exposed.
What to look for in a sunscreen:
- Broad-spectrum protection: Shields against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs block slightly more, but no sunscreen blocks 100%.
- Water resistance: Especially important if you’re swimming or sweating.
Application tips:
- Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Use one ounce (about a shot glass full) for your entire body.
- Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Don’t forget: Ears, feet, hands, back of the neck, and scalp (especially along hair parts) are commonly overlooked spots.
Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories
Clothing is your first physical barrier between your skin and the sun. The more skin you cover, the better protected you are.
Opt for:
- Long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven fabric.
- UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing, which is specially designed to block UV rays. A UPF rating of 50+ is ideal.
- Wide-brimmed hats that shade your face, neck, and ears. Baseball caps are popular, but they leave your neck and ears exposed.
- UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them. Look for labels that say “100% UVA/UVB protection.”
Many brands now offer fashionable, lightweight summer clothing with built-in sun protection that’s perfect for the pool, beach, or hiking trail.
Seek Shade During Peak Hours
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce exposure.
When outdoors during peak hours:
- Stay under umbrellas, trees, or pop-up tents whenever possible.
- Use portable sun shelters at the beach or park.
- Position strollers or picnic areas in shaded spots for children and babies, whose skin is especially sensitive.
Avoid Tanning (Even Indoors)
There’s a persistent myth that a “base tan” can protect you from sunburns. The truth? Any tan is a sign of skin damage. Tanning increases your risk of premature aging, sunspots, and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Indoor tanning beds are particularly harmful. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, people who use tanning beds before age 35 increase their risk of melanoma by 75%. Want that summer glow? Choose a sunless tanning lotion or spray tan. These products provide color without harmful UV exposure.
Stay Hydrated and Support Your Skin from the Inside Out
While sun protection is mostly external, your body’s internal health plays a role in how well your skin responds to sun exposure.
Tips for inside-out skin health:
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and resilient.
- Eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and carrots. These help combat free radical damage caused by the sun.
- Supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids may also support skin health, though they shouldn’t replace physical sun protection.
Perform Regular Skin Checks
Even with the best sun protection habits, early detection of skin changes is key. Get into the habit of performing monthly skin self-exams, looking for new or changing moles, freckles, or spots. Use the “ABCDE” rule as a guide:
- A – Asymmetry
- B – Border irregularity
- C – Color variation
- D – Diameter over 6mm
- E – Evolving (changes in size, shape, or color)
Additionally, schedule a full-body skin check with a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you have a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, or skin cancer in the family.
Bonus: Sun Protection for Kids and Babies
Young skin is extremely sensitive and requires extra care.
- Babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight entirely. Use shade and protective clothing.
- For older kids, use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are gentle and effective.
- Make sun protection fun by letting kids pick out colorful UPF shirts or wide-brimmed hats.
Sun protection isn’t about avoiding the outdoors; it’s about being smart and proactive. By using sunscreen correctly, dressing wisely, and staying aware of your exposure, you can soak up the joys of summer while keeping your skin healthy and radiant for years to come. So, this summer, as you grab your beach towel or hiking boots, don’t forget the SPF. After all, your skin is with you for life, so how will you protect it?
Savoring Summer with Recipes Using the Best Summer Ingredients
Summer is the season of abundance with vibrant colors at the farmer’s market, the sweet smell of fresh herbs, and the juicy crunch of sun-ripened produce. It’s the perfect time to lean into seasonal eating, where ingredients are at their flavorful peak and need little to no fuss to shine. Whether you’re cooking for a backyard BBQ, a lazy Sunday brunch, or a solo weeknight dinner, these top three recipes showcase the best summer ingredients in delicious and refreshing ways so let’s dive into the tastes of summer.
Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad with Basil Oil
Star Ingredients: Heirloom tomatoes, burrata cheese, fresh basil.
There’s nothing quite like a vine-ripened tomato in the heart of summer. Paired with creamy burrata and fresh basil oil, this salad is both rustic and elegant. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 ball of burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the basil oil: Blend basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh if you prefer a clearer oil.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange sliced tomatoes on a serving platter. Tear burrata gently and place over the tomatoes.
- Drizzle: Spoon the basil oil over the salad and finish with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
Why it works: The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the burrata, while basil oil adds aromatic freshness. It’s the taste of a sunny Italian garden on a plate.
Grilled Peach and Corn Tacos with Lime Crema
Star Ingredients: Fresh peaches, sweet corn, limes.
If you’ve never grilled a peach, prepare for a revelation. The heat caramelizes its sugars, intensifying the sweetness and adding a subtle smokiness. Combined with juicy corn and zesty crema, this taco is summer in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Small corn or flour tortillas
- Cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Grill the produce: Brush peaches and corn with olive oil. Grill over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes per side until lightly charred. Remove and let cool.
- Cut and mix: Chop the grilled peaches and slice kernels off the corn. Mix with red onion, jalapeño, and a pinch of salt.
- Make the lime crema: In a small bowl, combine sour cream and lime juice. Season with salt.
- Assemble the tacos: Warm tortillas and fill with the peach-corn mixture. Top with lime crema and fresh cilantro.
Why it works: This recipe layers smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that celebrate peak-season produce. It’s also highly customizable—try adding grilled chicken or black beans for extra protein.
Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup
Star Ingredients: Cucumbers, avocado, fresh dill.
When the mercury rises, nothing cools you down quite like a chilled soup. This one is ultra-refreshing, creamy without being heavy, and packed with nutrients thanks to the combination of cucumber and avocado.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cold water (more to adjust texture)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil and microgreens for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend: Combine cucumber, avocado, yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Season and chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish: Drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh dill or microgreens for a pretty finish.
Why it works: Cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch, avocado provides silky richness, and lemon juice brightens it all up. It’s the perfect no-cook meal for steamy afternoons.
Why Seasonal Ingredients Matter
Seasonal eating isn’t just about taste, it’s also better for your body and the planet. In summer, our bodies naturally crave hydration, lighter meals, and foods rich in water and nutrients. Many summer ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peaches are high in water content and antioxidants, keeping you cool and energized. Plus, buying in-season and local produce supports small farms, reduces carbon emissions from transport, and often means you’re getting food at its nutritional peak.
You don’t need a complicated recipe or fancy tools to enjoy the beauty of summer produce. These three dishes celebrate simplicity, freshness, and the joy of eating with the seasons. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a garden party, or just enjoying dinner on the porch, these recipes are sure to make your summer meals memorable.
Top 5 Best Staycation Ideas for Summer
With rising travel costs and busy schedules, more people are turning to staycations as the perfect way to unwind without the hassle of long flights, packing stress, or planning logistics. And let’s face it, sometimes the best adventures are right in your own backyard. If you’re looking to make the most of Summer, here are five top-notch staycation ideas to help you relax, recharge, and rediscover your local surroundings.
Backyard Glamping
Who says you need to book a national park to get a camping experience? Glamping (aka: “glamorous camping”) brings the thrill of the outdoors with a touch of luxury. Set up a canvas tent or pop a stylish canopy in your backyard, throw in a few comfy blankets, LED string lights, and cozy pillows, and you’ve created a dreamy escape just steps from your door.
What to do:
- Roast marshmallows over a firepit.
- Play classic board games or stargaze with an app like SkyView.
- Set up a Bluetooth speaker and enjoy a playlist under the stars.
Pro Tip: Rent a projector and host your own outdoor movie night for an unforgettable summer vibe.
Local Foodie Tour: Taste the Town Like a Tourist
Turn your hometown into your own personal food festival. Research restaurants, food trucks, farmers markets, and cafes you’ve never tried and dedicate a weekend to exploring new flavors. You might be surprised at what hidden gems are just around the corner.
What to do:
- Create a theme for each day (e.g., “Taco Tuesday,” “Brunch & Brew Saturday”).
- Visit local spots featured in blogs or social media reviews.
- Take photos and rate each place for fun (bonus: share your tour on Instagram!).
Pro Tip: Consider booking a guided local food tour. Many cities now offer curated culinary experiences for locals and tourists alike.
At-Home Spa Day
Imagine a spa day where you don’t have to leave your house, wait for an appointment, or pay premium prices. A stay-at-home spa day can be just as refreshing as a professional one if you set the right mood.
What to do:
- Start with a DIY facial, essential oil bath, and herbal tea.
- Try a guided meditation or gentle yoga session (YouTube is your friend!).
- Use soothing playlists and candles to create ambiance.
Pro Tip: Grab a friend or partner and take turns giving each other hand or foot massages for a bit of connection and pampering.
Tourist-in-Your-Own-City Day
When was the last time you visited your local museum, botanical garden, or historic landmark? Often, we forget the gems sitting right under our noses. This summer, pretend you’re seeing your town for the first time.
What to do:
- Book a local tour (ghost tour, art walk, boat ride; anything unique to your area).
- Use a tourism website or app to find top-rated activities nearby.
- Snap photos like a tourist and create a memory album.
Pro Tip: Some cities offer “City Pass” discounts for locals so look out for those bundled experiences!
Creative Retreat
Have you ever wanted to write a short story, paint a canvas, or learn how to make pottery? Summer is the perfect time to dive into a passion project or learn something new without leaving town.
What to do:
- Take an online workshop in art, music, writing, or design.
- Dedicate a weekend to a DIY home project or garden makeover.
- Host a “creative day” with friends, each bringing their favorite hobby.
Pro Tip: Set goals for your creative retreat like completing a poem or painting by Sunday and share your progress on social media or with friends for accountability.
Whether you’re relaxing under backyard fairy lights or finally checking out that local trail you always drive past, a staycation can be just as fulfilling as a faraway getaway. The key is to be intentional: carve out the time, put away your work notifications, and treat it like a real vacation.
Are you ready to create summer memories without leaving home? Which staycation idea will you try first?