i-am magazine July/August 2015 DISTINCTIONS by i•am magazine

unforgettable moments: ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA ~ and ~ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS THE INNOVATIVE DESIGNS of

JAMIE BECKWITH HENRY’S HOME a sanctuary for both horse and human

JULY~AUGUST 2015 • DISTINCTIONS

— statistics indicate —

women control 85% of household spending. Who are you targeting? i•am magazine speaks directly to women who have an interest in better living for themselves and their families. To INCREASE YOUR PROFITS, you need to REACH these WOMEN. To SPEAK DIRECTLY to these women, you need to be WHERE THEY ARE LOOKING. CAPTURE THIS AUDIENCE with your ad space in i •am magazine.

LARGER REACH i •am magazine’s circulation is larger than most other local publications, mailing to over 45,000 homes within The Woodlands and over 500 area businesses with client waiting areas in addition to online exposure.

MORE CUSTOMERS i •am magazine focuses on women, who control most of the household spending, resulting in your ad reaching more potential customers.

QUALITY CONTENT i •am magazine offers quality articles on topics that matter to women. We are read and not tossed, resulting in greater visibility of your ad.

LONGER EXPOSURE i •am magazine is enjoyed for two months vs. one month with other publications.

For more information, contact us at adsales@i-ammagazine.com or 512-739-0596.

TABLE of CONTENTS | distinctions 2015 • • •

What ’s Inside nurture 10

Finding Sanctuary Henry’s Home fosters healing journeys between horse and human.

protect 13

Holistic Healthcare for Children A holistic approach can put children on a path to wellness.

inspire 14

The Stand Against Gender-Based Violence Started at Home Stemming from her own experiences, local resident Indrani Goradia founded the Indrani’s Light Foundation to shed a much needed light on gender-based violence.

experience 16

Unforgettable Moments Make unforgettable vacation memories: Two life changing trips to add to your bucket list.

28 20

create & innovate 20

Playing with Dimension & Shape The innovative floor and wall designs of Jamie Beckwith.

achieve 24

Pain Management Just Might Begin with Posture: The Alexander Technique

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27 Looking Into Lymphatic Massage Stimulating the lymphatic system may promote healing.

28 Massage Therapy for Chronic Pain Relief Exploring myofascial release and craniosacral therapy as options for chronic pain.

connect 30

Giggles, Girl Talk...and Puberty? Learning about the birds and the bees is no longer as uncomfortable for kids and their parents. Moms and daughters share puberty facts and laughs at Girlology events.

31 Today, I’ve Come to the Conclusion That I’m Prettty One woman’s perspective on beauty.

business highlight 32

My Tummy Hurts Memorial Hermann offers advice to parents for children suffering from abdominal pain.

33 To Screen or Not to Screen: The Changing Landscape of Prenatal Testing Memorial Hermann discusses cell-free fetal DNA testing versus traditional screenings for prenatal testing.

“If you celebrate your differentness, the world will, too. it believes exactly what you tell it— through the words you use to describe yourself, the actions you take to care for yourself, and the choices you make to express yourself.” ~ Victoria Moran, Lit From Within: Tending Your Soul for Lifelong Beauty

Welcome to i•am magazine

magazine Suzanne Hirayama Founder & Publisher Editor In Chief Creative Director Patricia Ostholm Dianne C. Witter Copy Editors CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cathy Brown Stacey Brown Andrea Fedele Karen Kephart Dr. Mila McManus Michelle Schurman Dianne C. Witter CONTACT

6700 Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 230-281 The Woodlands, TX 77382 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

info@i-ammagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

adsales@i-ammagazine.com i•am magazine is a bi-monthly publication of Yama Media, LLC and is distributed, complimentarily, to residents within The Woodlands, TX. If you are not within our distribution area but would like to have i•am magazine delivered to you, subscriptions are available for $18.00 (six issues annually). To subscribe, send a money order for $18 payable to Yama Media, LLC, along with your full name and mailing address to Yama Media, LLC; 6700 Woodlands Pkwy., Ste. 230-281, The Woodlands, TX 77382. Please allow up to 8 weeks for delivery of first issue. Readership: 200,000+. ©2015 Yama Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the Publisher’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the Publisher. The publication of any advertisement or advertorial in this issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by this publication.

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ur mission for i•am magazine is to enhance and celebrate the incredible lives of women through a beautiful “better living” publication that serves as a prominent source of advice, knowledge and inspiration.

Within each issue you will find numerous articles pertaining to health and wellness, fitness and activities, personal finances, travel, personal spirituality and more. Each of the issues are devoted to a theme. We began the year with WELLNESS (Jan/Feb), which was the perfect time to set your goals for the year and chart a course for a healthier and happier 2015. We then followed with the WOMEN’S issue in March/April, which coincided with National Women’s History Month, a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society. This thought-provoking issue reflected on who we are and what we want as women. It aimed to inspire, motivate and educate on so many topics important to women. Our May/June issue is the ever-popular FAMILY & HOME issue. We highlighted various topics including organizing your life

spaces, healthy eating for all ages, enhancing family relationships, and more. This exciting issue (July/Aug) is the DISTINCTIONS issue. Here, we focus on unique services, inspirational life experiences, and creative products for the home. It doesn’t get more distinctive than that! CELEBRATIONS are the focus of our fifth issue (Sept/Oct), whether it’s a formal special occasion or a less formal social gathering. This issue will be loaded with helpful planning tips and recommendations to make your celebration a stress-free success – and to preserve memories of the big day. And last but not least, we close the year with our HOLIDAYS issue (Nov/Dec), where we’ll share creative ways to show your love or personalize your home for the holidays and show you how to make healthier holiday treats or find innovative gift ideas. We’ll also provide inspiration to honor family traditions or create new ones, advice in dealing with the loss of a loved one, and ideas to get into the spirit of the season. We hope you’re enjoying an amazing year of better living with i•am! And remember, this magazine is for you – an intelligent, amazing, modern woman!

I AM.

Two of the most powerful words; for what you put after them shapes your reality. ~ Unknown

I A M T H E I N T E L L I G E N T, A M A Z I N G , M O D E R N W O M A N

magazine

from the publisher

| distinctions 2015 • • •

i am

unique.

istinctions, as defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary, means “a difference that you can see, hear, smell, feel, etc.” My goal for the Distinctions issue is to highlight products, services and experiences that are unique or different, or challenge us to look at something a new way. With this issue, I hope you will discover new options, new opportunities and new experiences to consider and incorporate into your life.

“While we have the gift of life, it seems to me the only tragedy is to allow part of us to die whether it is our spirit, our creativity or our glorious uniqueness.” ~ Gilda Radner

We open with a story about an amazing new organization here in The Woodlands called Henry’s Home Horse Sanctuary, that is healing both horse and human. Henry’s Home offers new hope to rescued horses, which in turn provide companionship – and a comforting connection – to individuals who are going through difficult times. (pg. 10). For women struggling to manage aches and pains using typical treatments – whether it’s medicine, massage, exercise or surgery – why not try a completely different approach? New options that might be worth considering include the Alexander Technique (pg. 24), myofascial release and craniosacral therapy (pg. 28) and lymphatic massage (pg. 27).

To add artful distinctiveness to your home, check out our spotlight on the innovations of Nashville designer Jamie Beckwith. Jamie’s product line, The Beckwith Collection (pg. 20) presents a unique approach to creating an element of surprise in living spaces. Her hardwood flooring and wood accents collection use shape and dimension to create distinctive works of art in any room. And, last but not least, we feature two unique travel experiences that offer a sense of wonderment and awe for those in search of a highly memorable vacation (pg. 16). Both of these one-of-a-kind experiences will brighten and broaden your horizons (and they are definitely on my bucket list!) We hope this issue will inspire you to try new things, venture out to new experiences, and be open to new opportunities. We also hope it serves as a reminder of all the amazing uniqueness in our world, which includes each one of us. Cherish your unique talents and know that you are special in your own way. Celebrate all that makes you distinctively you!

Suzanne Suzanne Hirayama Publisher

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Helping Families Make Sense of the Puzzle At The Shape of Behavior, we understand how much the little things matter. It is our mission to provide treatment based on empirically validated ABA principles and shape behavior by celebrating small, everyday successes. The Shape provides ABA Behavioral Therapy to children with autism and all other special needs. We work to help improve the quality of life for the children and the families we serve.

Proudly serving children and their families since 2000.

Autism Services and Behavior Therapy

In Clinic Treatment Social Skills Shadowing Diagnostic Services

26315 Oak Ridge Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77380

832-358-2655

www.shapeofbehavior.com

nurture

| the healing sanctuary • • •

Finding Sanctuary Henry’s Home fosters healing journeys between human and horse. story | Dianne C. Witter

hey arrive at Henry’s Home stressed and worn out, depressed, sometimes abused or sick. The horses, that is. The humans who come to ride and volunteer often have similar problems – they’re dealing with a cancer diagnosis or divorce or anxiety. Many of the people who make their way to this Woodlands-based horse sanctuary are women who simply need an outlet for the stress of their busy roles at work and home. They want to drop the mask of perfection for awhile, feel the wind in their hair, get dirty, and be judged by no one but a horse. Henry, Tavi, Lexi, and the other gentle equine souls at Henry’s Home are only too happy to oblige. When they first arrived at Henry’s Home, they felt the same way, so they understand. Henry’s Home provides kind of a circle of serenity. Horses arrive, often from neglectful situations or on the brink of being sent to slaughter; they’re skittish, depressed, even starving. Here, they’re nurtured back to physical and emotional health by equine experts, and

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• • • the healing sanctuary | they in turn provide relief and release to those who come to ride. “The Woodlands is quickly becoming an affluent, high-end community, and along with that comes additional stress and the pressure to maintain the illusion of perfection,” says Donna Stedman, whose focused vision has made Henry’s Home a reality. “For the 50 to 75 women who regularly come out to ride and/ or care for the horses, Henry’s Home is an oasis of simplicity and honesty. “They tell me, ‘Finally, a place I can really relax and be myself; be real for awhile in an unrealistic world.’ Here, women dwell in nature awhile, meet other volunteers and become part of a tight-knit group, before returning to their own busy lives juggling homes, families and jobs.”

many of the people who come to ride are women who want to drop the mask of perfection for awhile, feel the wind in their hair, get dirty, and be judged by no one but a horse. “WE ALL NEED THIS PLACE.” The benefits of equine therapy are well documented and known to help people with a wide variety of physical, mental and emotional issues. There are many programs targeted to specific issues; equine therapy has been used with children and adults in the treatment of depression, autism, Alzheimer’s, developmental delays, behavioral issues, motor impairment, physical rehabilitation from injury or disability, PTSD recovery and much more. Horses are very attuned to human emotions, which may explain the special horsehuman bond that promotes healing from so many ills. And at Henry’s Home, the healing goes both ways. The horses need us riding and grooming them as much as we need them. “We started out planning to focus on providing an outlet for women, but our circle continues to grow wider,” says Donna. “We have veterans with PTSD coming out to ride now, and they find it really therapeutic. Horses can be the saving grace for so many people in so many circumstances, but at the end of the day, Henry’s Home seeks to be a place for everyday people to get out of their everyday lives and let go for awhile. “The truth is, we all need this place,” she concludes. “And the horses need us.”

MODEST DIGS; PASSIONATE VISION Currently, Henry’s Home is modest, but there are big plans in the works. In the small paddock that is their current space, the herd of seven rehabilitated horses is at maximum capacity. Many of the people who initially come to ride get hooked on the horses and become regular volunteers who care for the horses and accompany newcomers on trail rides. Trail rides in the current location take one through as-yet undeveloped areas a little off the beaten Woodlands path, as well as past cul de sacs of subdivisions, where residents are used to seeing a few suburban cow pokes meandering past and raise a hand in greeting. Donna’s plans for Henry’s Home are ambitious and impressive. Fulfilling them will benefit all of Houston and particularly The Woodlands. Henry’s Home is a tax-exempt non-proft organization run by volunteers, so it will require corporate grants, individual donations, community fund-raisers and more. Donna’s driving passion fuels her faith that the funding and the land needed to make the vision a reality will come. “When a community gets behind a dream, it becomes everybody’s reality,” she says. “Corporations, groups and individuals throughout The Woodlands and Houston will help build this center because it will help them. It will truly be a sanctuary for humans and horses.” While donations and grants will be neces-

nurture

sary to make the vision possible, the sanctuary will be self-sustaining after a couple of years. “Right now, I have to say ‘No’ more often than I can say ‘Yes,’ when someone calls about placing a horse in danger,” she says regretfully. “Until we have more land, I can’t take in more horses.” Nationally, up to 150,000 horses are shipped to other countries for slaughter each year, and others are confiscated from abusive owners or surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them. There will be no shortage of contenders for a place at Henry’s Home. HAVEN FOR HORSES AND HUMANS Picture, if you will, several hundred acres of property in the vicinity of The Woodlands serving as a sanctuary and rehabilitation center for up to 100 horses each year, working to match horses with adoptive homes when appropriate. The property will feature a community retreat center for corporate retreats, workshops and individual use, key to the sanctuary to become financially self-sustaining. Most importantly, the expanded space will allow more humans and horses to bond and gallop (or cantor) together along beautifully wooded trails. “Within the year, with the help of local

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the healing sanctuary • • •

How You Can Help Henry’s Home IMMEDIATE NEEDS: Pick-up truck and horse trailer – With the donation of a used truck and trailer, Henry’s Home could take the horses to community events to meet the public and give rides to attendees. Currently the organization has no way to transport the horses. Equine dental visit – It’s been well over a year for Henry, Lexi, Jinx and Tavi, and they don’t know when the last three taken in were last seen. To do all the horses it will cost about $2,000. Horse upkeep funding – Routine feeding and care costs about $500 per horse per month. Equine vetenarian visits are also required to keep the horses healthy. Funding to provide free lessons to veterans – Henry’s Home would also love to be able to take more military veterans out for free lessons and rides as part of their partnership with the Wounded Warriors Equestrian Program. T-shirt sponsors are needed for visibility as we move into fundraising mode. Volunteers willing to help care for the horses are always needed and welcome LONG-TERM NEEDS: Donation of land – The sanctuary and community retreat currently planned will require several hundred acres of undeveloped land within about 30 minutes of The Woodlands. When the land is secured, Henry’s Home will be able to start accepting and rehabilitating more rescues right away, before the complete center is built. Corporate donations – Building out the new facilities’ paddocks, barns, retreat center and facilities will require an estimated $3-4 million in corporate grants, sponsorships and partnerships. These partnerships can benefit for sponsors in many ways, and once the facilities are built, Henry’s Home will become self-sustaining through corporate and group retreats.

and national grant-makers, corporations and fundraising, we hope to have our land secured and developed enough to be taking in new rescued horses,” says Donna. “We envision pasture tracts modeled after ‘Paddock Paradise,’ Jaime Jackson’s revolutionary guide for safe, natural horse keeping, hoof care, and the healing and rehabilitation of lame horses. The premise of ‘Paddock Paradise’ is to stimulate horses to behave and move naturally according to their instincts.” Eventual plans call for four of these pasture tracts in a cloverleaf pattern with the retreat center and barns in the middle. This center will be completely surrounded by horses, mostly untouched nature and lakes. Beyond those pastures will be natural trails/obstacle courses through the forest and fields for riding and training purposes. It’s a vision that speaks of fresh air, natural beauty and incredible healing journeys

It’s a vision that speaks of fresh air, natural beauty and incredible healing journeys between human and horse. between human and horse. It makes “being put out to pasture” downright enticing! GETTING THE WORD OUT Right now, Donna is like a woman on fire, driven to get the word out and get people excited about having this type of haven in our community. And she’s succeeding; more and more people are delighted to learn about Henry’s Home and the exciting plans for its future. A pressing, current need is for the donation of a used pick-up truck and a horse trailer, which would allow the group to take horses to community events, schools, and

ABOVE: Donna Stedman, Founder of Henry’s Home, with Henry, the namesake of the sanctuary.

nursing homes. A t-shirt sponsor would be very helpful as well. “The horses love to give people rides, and we can help other non-profits by bringing our rescues out for people to meet once we have mobility. That also helps to get the word out about our mission.” Seeing these masterful, yet gentle, healthy horses first hand and hearing the stories behind their rescues really brings the message home for many. What can you do to help? Like and Share Henry’s Home horse and human sanctuary on Facebook and spread the word through social media. Learn more about the plans and fund-raising opportunities in the sidebar on this page or on www.henryshomehorsesanctuary.org. And even if you’re a “newbie” (age 12 and up) come take a trail ride, or just meet Henry and the gang. They love treats like watermelon rind, apples, and carrots, but most of all, they’ll love meeting you as much as you’ll love meeting them. As Donna is quick to say, “Come out and get dirty with us!”

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Dianne Witter is a Houston-based freelance writer and very amateur cow-poke who is grateful to Tavi for his patience during their trail ride.

BELOW: Volunteer, Shannon Novak, showing kids how to give love to the horses.

Fundraisers and individual donations – Funding for Henry’s Home is also dependent on community involvement. As the new center is developed, caring for and rehabilitating up to 100 horses will be expensive. Any donation, in any amount, is greatly appreciated. Contact Henry’s Home at 281-292-1110 or donate online at www. henryshomehorsesanctuary.org. i•am 12 www.i-ammagazine.com

At LEFT: Dianne Witter with Tavi. ABOVE: Donna Stedman feeding a favorite snack of watermelon to Chandler and Lexi.

Above photo donated by Connie Mcnabb of Photos For A Cause

• • • a holistic approach to a child’s health |

protect

Holistic Healthcare for Children story | Dr. Mila McManus, MD

hronic ailments in children are at an all-time high these days. When you take your child to see his or her doctor for something other than a routine well check, chances are you’ll be leaving the clinic with one or more prescriptions for medication. Understandable, if visiting for a severe infection that requires an antibiotic. However, there are many conditions for which you may want to consider taking a more holistic approach. In my holistic practice, I treat children (as well as adults) with a range of conditions, from ADD/ADHD, asthma, allergies, autism spectrum, eczema, behavior problems, learning disabilities, mood disorders, reflux, chronic constipation, failure to thrive, and weight management. I do still prescribe medications when necessary – for symptomatic relief and to prevent illness from progressing until underlying factors can be fully addressed – but I feel that in many cases standard medications serve more as band-aids than a solution to the problem. The approach to illness that I’ve been practicing for over 10 years involves identifying the root of a problem and creating a solid foundation upon which the body can heal itself and thrive. I take into account the whole child – his physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual development – in evaluating illnesses and their root causes. In my practice, we work to set our patients on a path of good health and wellness, rather than a path leading from illness to illness, which we all too often see in conventional medicine. This solid foundation is built, in children, as in adults, with a healthy diet, detoxification, nutritional support with vitamins and supplements where needed, balancing hormones when needed, and restoring gut health. The reason that these are usually the first steps we take to heal whatever ails a person is that I believe the underlying causes of many, if not most, illnesses are based in food and nutritional issues. There may be undiagnosed food and/or chemical sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, toxic buildup, hormone imbalances, and an unhealthy gut (gastrointestinal tract). Once the foundation has been repaired, we expect success; however, if an ailment per-

sists, we must then continue the investigation into underlying causes, looking for the more uncommon factors such as rare infections, rare toxins, and genetics. This may also be the time to consider adding other alternative and complementary therapies such as chiropractic care and/or acupuncture. You may be wondering how long it takes to repair the foundation. It’s definitely an ongoing process that may take several months or even a few years depending on factors such as the nature and severity of the illness, financial circumstances, and ability to adhere to the regimen. A child’s eczema may clear up in 1 to 2 weeks, for example, if it’s discovered that he had a sensitivity to corn which was then removed from his diet, but the eczema may come right back upon reintroduction of corn to the diet if the foundation hasn’t been fully repaired. Stress is another factor that should not be overlooked, because stress makes everything worse! Numerous studies have shown that stress suppresses immune function. You may notice that your child’s mood is worse when stressed, or that his eczema is worse with stress or that he catches more colds. Children can’t articulate frustration and stress like adults can, so your child’s illness may be the first sign to you that he’s under stress. Being attuned to your child will help you identify whether stress is playing a role in his illnesses. If so, a component of his treatment should be stress management, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and/or counseling. Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician dubbed the “Father of

Western Medicine,” has many famous quotes including “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” I’d say that was a pretty good start, and to be clear, I assure you that he meant real, nutritious food. So, sorry kids, that doesn’t mean mom will treat your illness with cupcakes and candy!

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“it is the body that is the hero, not science, not antibiotics...not machines or new devices. the task of the physician today is... to help the body do what it has learned so well to do on its own during its unending struggle for survival‚ to heal itself.” — Ronald J. Glasser, MD

Mila McManus, MD is a board-certified physician in Family Medicine and also has certifications through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and the American Academy of Biologically Identical Hormone Therapy. She has also been voted “Best of” in local competitions for the past 4 years. She has been featured on episodes of Great Day Houston and The Business Makers Radio Show and published her book Highway to Health: A Nutritional Roadmap in 2008. She sees patients at her private practice, The Woodlands Institute for Health & Wellness, in The Woodlands, TX.

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inspire

| an i•am woman • • •

naware what the future was to hold for her, Indrani Goradia’s life as a child set her on a path to her life’s work today. At a young age, she grew to know violence in the home at the hands of her mother. She grew up thinking this is what every child endures and that abusive behavior was normal. It wasn’t until Indrani had her own child that she began to learn the depths of what was wrong with her upbringing. When her first born was only two weeks old, she became struck with the urge to harm her newborn son. Whether it was fear or a deeper understanding of what she was facing, she knew this wasn’t right and sought to get help. Fortunately for her and her children, the cycle of abuse was now broken. Fast forward 23 years. When Indrani became an empty nester after raising her two children, she began to search for a new focus in life. She contemplated some of the usual things women do when they have free time to enjoy – lunching with friends, learning the game of golf, traveling... But none of these hobbies or pastimes fulfilled Indrani and she had this urge that there should be something more meaningful in her life. There was a desire deep within her to set out to accomplish big, almost unattainable goals. At first, she set her sights on accomplishing goals, including an Olympic distance triathalon – she trained for it and succeeded, even if coming in last place. But then it was that burning desire, maybe a sense of “I can do anything,” that continued to lead her in a direction with bigger, more profound goals. Memories of her past kept coming back to mind and began to grow the desire to reach out and help other children in abusive situations. Though reaching these children directly proved more difficult than she had expected, she realized she could help these children by reaching out to the mothers in these abusive

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situations. From this passion, Indranis Light Foundation was created. In 2010 Indranis Light Foundation was established and obtained 501c3 status in 2014. The foundation is dedicated to ending gender-based violence and empowering women around the world with the tools to live healthy and meaningful lives. Through her foundation, Indrani has partnered with United Way in South Asia and the Caribbean to bring health, strength and wellness to women in need. She’s a tireless advocate for girls and women, leading empowerment training in several countries around the world. Indrani is a founding member of WIN, Womens Investment Network, which is an arm of a larger organization (PSI WIN) co-chaired by Mette Marit, Crown Princess of Norway and Melinda Gates. WIN’s goal is to transform the lives of girls and women and lift them out of poverty. Together with WIN and PSI, Indrani’s Light has begun anti-violence initiatives in India and Trinidad. She participated as a speaker at the World Women’s Health and Development Forum at the United Nations. She also recently participated on the keynote panel at the Nexus Conference in Jamaica, the UBS’s “It’s a Girl” conference in Switzerland, and Global India Fund’s Girl Rising Screening and panel in D.C. In October, she will be speaking at TEDxPortofSpain, taking place in Trinidad. At this conference, guest speakers will be discussing various taboo topics to shine a light on important issues. Indrani’s topic, naturally, will be about violence against children. Indrani is an exceptional woman who has already changed the lives of so many in a short amount of time through her work. I was in awe of her life story and was honored

to have met such an inspiring woman. i•am magazine, would like to shine a spotlight on this amazing local Woodlands woman and her foundation in hopes to help spread her vision and goal of eradicating gender-based violence in the world. Q: What led you to the work you do today? How did this become your passion? A: My own severe childhood abuse led me to my work. I did not realize that the abuse had so deeply affected me until I had my first child and I wanted to hit him when he was just an infant. The realization that I had such strong feelings of anger towards such an innocent child really shocked and scared me. I spent my whole life trying to learn how to be an effective human being without needing to be violent to get people to do things or be any certain way. Q: Why is your work with gender violence so important to you? A: The simple answer here is that the jails are filled with people who had been abused as children. Abuse warps minds and the ability to make clear headed decisions becomes a Herculean task. Abuse against women creates a home environment that is highly destructive for the child and very unstable for the woman. Her energies are invested in keeping the abuser even keeled and the kids learn very early that the abuser is the most important person in the family and they accept neglect and think it’s normal.

• • • an i•am woman | Q: How are you able to balance your personal life with your business life? A: I feel very lucky that when the kids were at home I was able to stay home. My husband traveled a lot so we decided one of us should create the stability. These days, I can check in with them from wherever I am and don’t feel disconnected. I am also able to meet them where they are and we spend some great times together. Our together time is very precious to me and I don’t waste a minute of it. Q: What is a typical day like for you? A: There is not really one typical day; when I am home I start my days with self care, which means exercise – either walking or doing Zumba or some other program. I practice yoga and keep a gratitude journal which reminds me to stay grounded and look for the good in my days. My meetings are usually taken over the phone so I rarely have to get dressed to be at work. When I am traveling the whole day is devoted to the work in whatever town or country I am in. I still try to begin with walking and simple yoga and also travel with my gratitude journal. I usually am given my schedule by the country teams and always happy to support what they need. Those are very long and intense days. We start with site visits and usually end with stake holder meetings over dinner. I love meeting people in the field and seeing the work on the ground taking place. Q: Highlight some of the things you and your foundation have accomplished in the fight to end gender violence. A: Our biggest accomplishment to date has been our training program being instituted in different countries. We believe that education is the key to victims and abusers alike making dif-

ferent choices and both parties trying to keep a culture of peace, not giving into violent urges or using threats of violence against the other. We believe that children stand a better chance for success. Q: What does your organization do for the community on a local level? And within the United States? A: I work with local shelters here in Houston conducting the classes. I am on the board of Harris County Domestic Violence Coalition Center and have done speaking engagements at local colleges helping to inspire young people. We have an active branch of the foundation in Portland where our head trainer lives and teaches. To date we have about 30 trainers spread through the United States and Canada. Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of, both personally and professionally? A: My ability to END gender violence in my life time. That I never abused my children physically and that I learned to not yell or scream at my children. I am very proud that at 50 I became a triathlete and have done 3 marathons. I began my foundation at age 57 and I’m doing the best work of my life. Q: What are your hopes and goals for the future as it pertains to your foundation and your mission? A: We want to help couples and parents to better communicate and to steer away from violence. We want to teach them the skills to negotiate with mutual respect, not mutual fear. I want my foundation to reach as many people as we can with our classes to help people be more proactive in life and less reactive. I want the foundation to have thousands of trainers spread around the world teaching on all continents, in all countries and cities.

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inspire

How You Can Help in the Fight Against Gender Violence Donate to Indrani’s Light Foundation Your donation will be used towards eradicating gender violence, training community leaders and sharing behaviour-change tools with people who are ready to leave violence behind and create a brighter, more peaceful world. Your donation to Indranis Light Foundation can help in many powerful, lasting ways, for example: $50 – Buying Books: help ILF purchase the resource books that the Live a Brighter Life curriculum is based on and distribute these books to the women who need them. $100 – Connecting to shelters: help ILF trainers reach out to women’s shelters, schools, and other locations and spread the Live a Brighter Life message and curriculum. $500 – Training a Trainer: the ILF team has big plans to train more and more people around the world to teach the Live a Brighter Life curriculum; help fund this training. Donation of your choice: Whether it is $1 or $10,000 feel free to donate any amount that feels right. ILF has tremendous gratitude for any amount received. Every little bit helps turn the dream of eliminating gender-based violence into a reality. ILF has partnered with Bank of America and its matching gifts program for corporate gifts. To begin your partnership or to learn more, contact ILF at corporate@ indranislight.org. Donations can be made by visiting www.indranislight.org or by mailing a check made payable to the foundation to: Indranis Light Foundation 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands, Texas 77380 Phone: 1-844-2ENDGBV or 1-844-236-3428 Indranis Light Foundation is a registered 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Indrani Goradia and Andrea Lee of Indrani’s Light Foundation (pictured centered with children) visited a village in India where they spoke to women about violence in the home.

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experience

| unforgettable moments • • •

Unforgettable Moments makE unforgettable vacation memories: Two life changing trips to add to your bucket list.

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Alaska

• • • unforgettable moments |

experience

When was the last time you experienced a vacation that inspired you to see the world differently? Experience the thrill of flight in a hot air balloon or marvel at the glorious colors of the Aurora Borealis. Here, we offer insider tips and creative ideas for planning a truly unforgettable vacation you and your family will never forget. story | Stacey Brown THE GREATEST LIGHT SHOW ON EARTH

eeing the Aurora Borealis or Aurora Australis is a thrilling and mystical experience that should be on every traveler’s “bucket” list. Known as the Aurora Borealis in the North and Aurora Australis in the South, NASA called it “the greatest light show on earth.” Auroras are curtains of colored light that are visible in the earth’s hemisphere when gases and electrons collide in the Earth’s atmosphere. The collision creates a celestial light show, with multi-colored arcs, bands and coronas lighting up the night sky. WHEN AND WHERE The auroras occur in rings spanning 2500 miles around the earth’s magnetic poles (Source: NASA), making Alaska, Canada Greenland, Scotland, and Russia prime viewing locations. You can see the southern lights in remote areas of Southern Australia, New Zealand and Chile, but travel is arduous and costly. Alaska and Canada, situated above 60 degrees north, are prime aurora viewing spots. March and September, late at night, are ideal times to see the northern lights. To receive regular aurora Twitter alerts, follow @spaceweather. SpaceWeatherLive.com also posts regular auroral OVATION updates worldwide. FAIRBANKS, ALASKA Ask the locals, and they’ll say auroras are a fairly common occurrence here. Fairbanks is an ideal location for northern lights viewing because it offers comfortable lodging amenities and regular opportunities for aurora sightings. Many Fairbanks lodges offer northern lights packages that may include a trip to Chena Hot Springs, dog sledding, a tour of the Ice Mu-

Iceland

seum or crossing the Yukon River and Arctic Circle. FAIRBANKS SIGHTS When you are not chasing the northern lights, Fairbanks offers a plethora of winter activities for all ages. You can pan for gold at Gold Dredge 8 and discover Fairbanks’ gold mining heritage. Take a trip to breathtaking Denali National Park on the McKinley Explorer railroad. At the Chena Hot Springs Resort, guests can swim in a rock lake, attend dog mushing school, tour the Aurora Ice Museum or fly across the arctic circle. Take the kids to see the Golden Heart Revue at the Palace Theatre, a musical celebration of Fairbanks. www.akvisit.com For more information on these activities, visit www.chenahotsprings.com. Tails of the Trail with Mary Shields is another “don’t miss” sightseeing tour with real life dog musher Mary Shields. www.maryshields.com For detailed descriptions of tour types and availability, visit www.alaska.org. FOOD DELIGHTS Fresh seafood and comfort food are plentiful in Fairbanks. The Crepery serves up

Norway

delicious seafood crepes and great coffee. (535 2nd Avenue, Fairbanks 907-450-9192) Tip: the smoked salmon crepe is a favorite. Lavelle’s Bistro (575 1st Ave., Fairbanks 907-450-0555) is a popular Fairbanks bistro offering seafood, steaks and prime rib near the Chena River. For a memorable Alaska experience, take the kids to Alaska Salmon Bake at Pioneer Park (2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks 907-452-7274). At this local favorite, you can learn about pioneer life, eat salmon, crab legs and prime rib and make new friends. WHERE TO STAY Where you stay will depend on your budget, time and choice of activities. Options abound in Fairbanks. You can stay in a chain hotel, a log cabin or a specialty resort. The northern lights are visible during the late evening hours (10 – 2), so you’ll want to explore Fairbanks’ numerous attractions, especially if you are traveling with children. The Chena Hot Springs Resort (907-451-8151), located 60 miles outside Fairbanks, offers four-day packages that also include viewing the Aurora Ice Museum, soaking in the hot springs, and outdoor winter activities. Another option is www.i-ammagazine.com

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experience

| unforgettable moments • • •

the Riverbend Log Cabin B&B (410 Nordale Road, Fairbanks 907-490-6613). Here, you can stay in an authentic log cabin and view the northern lights from your balcony. ....................................................... ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA With its stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity, Albuquerque, New Mexico is an exciting destination for travelers. Situated in the heart of New Mexico and nestled in the Sandia Mountain Range and Rio Grande River Valley, Albuquerque offers travelers contemporary Southwestern charm among ancient monuments. Each October, in the temperate autumn climate, visitors and locals converge on Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park in celebration of hot air ballooning. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta boasts 9 days of breathtaking sights, exciting local entertainment and delicious New Mexico cuisine that is sure to delight discriminating taste buds. i•am 18 www.i-ammagazine.com

Launched in 1972 with just 13 balloons, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the premier hot air balloon event in the world. At one point, the number of balloons reached well over 1,000 but eventually had to be limited to the first 600. The cornerstone of the festival is the mass ascension, but in recent years, additional events have been added to the schedule. For early risers, the Dawn Patrol affords guests the opportunity to see the inflation and launch in the early morning hours. The Special Shapes Rodeo event showcases over 100 cartoon shaped balloons, delighting children and adults alike. After viewing the balloon launches, visitors can learn about hot air balloon flight at the 7-Eleven Discovery Center, enjoy musical performances at the Sandia Resort and Casino, satisfy food cravings at Main Street concessions or take in the stunning fireworks show each evening. National Geographic recently recommended the International Balloon Fiesta as one of its “best fall trips.” 2014 Balloon Fiesta attendee Graciela Honzik agrees. “It is one of those things you just need to see once in your lifetime. The different styles and colors of these balloons are amazing. I thought it was

really wonderful to see how they glow from within. There is nothing like being there in person, and I would like to do it again with my grandchildren,” Graciela remarked. “We took great photographs. It is really awesome!” ALBUQUERQUE SIGHTS After viewing hot air balloons up close, you’ll want to experience the thrill of ascending in your own hot air balloon. Visitors can book a private hot air balloon ride through Rainbow

Ryders. It offers sunrise, sunset and private rides every day, and it is the only company authorized to launch hot air balloons during the Balloon Fiesta. Reservations are required, and availability is limited. For more information, visit www. rainbowryders.com. The kids will also enjoy visiting the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque Balloon Museum to learn about the history of hot air ballooning. For hours and admission fees, visit www.balloonmuseum.com. Looking for more exciting Albuquerque sights? See 15,000 pre-historic and Native American petroglyphs carved into the landscape at Petroglyph National Monument. It is one of the largest sites in North America. For hours and admission fees, visit www.nps.gov. FOOD DELIGHTS New Mexico cuisine has a distinctive flavor all its own. A blend of Native American, Spanish and Mexican cuisine, New Mexican cuisine is a fusion of flavors and spices. Eat like the locals during your Albuquerque visit and try some authentic New Mexican food. A local Albuquerque favorite among locals and food bloggers alike, the James Beard award winner Mary & Tito’s Café (2711 4th Street NW, ABQ 505-344-6266) serves authentic New Mexican cuisine in a casual environment. Patrons can enjoy chicharrones, carne adovada with beans and burritos and Mary’s daily specials. Be sure to try the combo plate with the Chili Relleno and Red. Cecilia’s Café (230 6th Street, ABQ 505243-7070) is an Albuquerque favorite that turns out “real, southwestern cooking” according to Guy Fieri, host of Diners, Dives and Drive-ins. Another New Mexico standout is the green chile cheeseburger. If you don’t have time to follow the green chili cheeseburger trail, stop by the 66 Diner to order this New Mexico classic (1405 Central Avenue, Albuquerque 505-247-1421). WHERE TO STAY Lodging options abound in Albuquerque. Book a suite at the family and pet-friendly Staybridge Suites North (from $106.00 per night) directly across from Balloon Fiesta Park or check into luxury Hotel Parq Central (from $230.00), located in the center of Albuquerque, about 7 miles from Fiesta Park. Or, stay off the beaten path at the Spy House B&B, the site where spies David and Ruth Greenglass sold American atomic secrets to the Soviets (from 89.00). Continental breakfast is included. RV sites are also available, and reservations are a must. For more information on lodging and guest services, visit www.balloonfiesta.com.

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Stacey Brown is a freelance writer who resides in The Woodlands with her husband, twin boys and their rat terrier. She enjoys traveling with her family, digital photography, cooking and writing poetry.

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create & innovate

| the jamie beckwith collection • • •

Playing with

Dimension & Shape T H E I N N O VAT I V E D E S I G N S O F J A M I E B E C K W I T H

story | Suzanne Hirayama

hen most of us think of hard wood flooring, we think of long rectangular planks of wood in various lengths running across the floor. But have you ever contemplated hardwood flooring shaped like a puzzle piece, playfully interlocking across your gameroom floor? Or swaying in long elegant curves, spooning the plank on either side? Or even thought to apply it in a vertical fashion on the wall – maybe in various depths – to play with light and shadow, creating an artwork all its own?

Jamie Beckwith, the mastermind behind the Jamie Beckwith Collection®, has mastered the art of shape, texture, color and design when it comes to hardwood flooring and wood accents for vertical spaces, ceilings and counters. In her interior design business, Beckwith was challenged to create custom, creative solutions for many of her high-profile clients. The result was an innovative line of hard wood flooring and surface accents, inspired by travel, fashion, and the arts. The Jamie Beckwith Collection® is composed of 4 product lines: Enigma®, Mosaic®, Projection®, and a brand new line called Etched®.

The back wall of this en suite is beautifully designed with Projection®. This collection consists of a series of blocks in six thicknesses, that add dimension to any surface and play with light and shadow, becoming a work of art all its own. Shown here is Projection® in Ash Split Block with the Burnished Bark finish.

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The collection has garnered numerous awards including Interior Design Best of the Year 2014 and NWFA Wood Floor of the Year Award. The Jamie Beckwith Collection® has been featured on 3 episodes of HGTV’s “Candice Tells All”, HGTV Canada’s “The Expandables”, and DIY Network, as well as featured in Interior Design Magazine. Contact your local interior design firm to find out how you can create an innovative and creative custom space that will stand apart from the ordinary. To view the entire collection online, visit www.jamiebeckwithcollection.com.

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This powder room wall is creatively designed with the pattern Stretcher™, from the Enigma® collection. A classic subway tile shape, it can be organized in a variety of patterns to create a unique and compelling space. Shown here is Stretcher™ in Plain White Oak with the Golden Topaz finish.

• • • the jamie beckwith collection

create & innovate At left: Dice from The Enigma® collection featured in Plain White Oak & Walnut with Polished Amber and Smoky Quartz finish. Below, from top to bottom: From the Enigma® collection – Crescent in Quarter Sawn White Oak with Smoky Quartz finish; Jigsaw in Quarter Sawn White Oak with Golden Topaz finish; Jacks in Plain White Oak with Golden Topaz & Smoky Quartz finish; and Wave in Plain Sawn White Oak with Golden Topaz finish. This collection encompasses a total of 14 patterns.

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Below, from top to bottom: Chat, from the Etched® collection, an innovative wood surface treatment for vertical and ceiling applications. Shapes, text symbols, emojis, music notes, company logos or any script can be custom created for a one of a kind art installation. Shooter, from the Etched® collection Rustic Projection® in a matte finish that showcases the simple beauty of the wood.

At left: Whether used as wall to wall flooring – adding grace and elegance to a room – or used as a wall or ceiling accent, the Enigma® flooring collection makes a dramatic and elegant statement. Shown above left is Sextant in Quarter Sawn White Oak with Smokey Quartz finish. Shown at immediate left is Sextant in Walnut with Polished Amber finish.

wise woman’s guide to divorce

A Woman Only, Informative Day for Those Getting or Contemplating a Divorce

July 18, 2015

8:30am – 2:00pm

You will walk away with information to help you make well informed decisions regarding your divorce –

Hyatt Place – The Woodlands, 1909 Research Forest Drive Bruce Buskirk

Attorney at Law Buskirk & Associates, P.C. Bruce is a 23 year experienced trial attorney & experienced mediator. He has provided legal counsel to over 3,000 divorcing clients in his career.

1. Legally – tips and tools to help you with your legal proceedings 2. Financially – areas of concern in divorce & mistakes to avoid 3. Emotionally & physically – tools to help you cope during divorce

Denise French

Divorce Financial Analyst Divorce Strategies Group, LLC Denise is a 19 year experienced financial professional. She is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and has over 13 years helping people work towards preserving their assets, estates and wealth.

Robin Roberts

Personal Coach The Clarity Guide Robin is a 7 year experienced life coach helping people cope in times of transition.

$125 registration fee which includes a continental breakfast, buffet lunch and an afternoon coffee bar. Early bird fee before July 11th is only $99. Seating is limited. RSVP today! To register please call Denise French at 281-292-9555 or email at Denise@DivorceStrategiesGroup.com For more information please visit www.divorcestrategiesgroup.com 22592945_0715

Divorce strategies and services are offered independently through Divorce Strategies Group, LLC and Denise French and are not provided through Voya Financial Advisors, Inc. Neither Voya Advisors nor its representatives offer tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax and legal advisors regarding your individual situation.

achieve |

the alexander technique • • •

Pain Management Just Might story | Andrea Fedele

ow many doctors, therapists, or instructors have you consulted in your attempt to eliminate nagging pain and discomfort? Do you find that the pain returns between appointments? Each of these healers may play an important role in helping us feel better, but often the relief is temporary and doesn’t solve a very common underlying problem: the way that we move, sit and stand during our daily lives is often a major contributor to our pain or discomfort. That’s right, our habits are persistently undoing our therapist’s good work. Between massage appointments your shoulders tighten again; between chiropractic appointments the lower back pain returns. Maybe you are concerned whether these therapies can keep you comfortable and mobile as you age. The Alexander Technique is a method that specifically addresses what is working against you between therapy appointments or yoga classes: the habitual way you move, sit and stand in your daily life. It helps people with a wide variety of physical discomforts or challenges, interests, hobbies, and workplaces. The Alexander Technique is able to benefit almost anyone because most people today spend a lot of time slouching, which hurts them. Even when people appear to have good posture, they are often tense and uncomfortable. Lessons in the Alexander Technique improve the way a person uses her body, no matter what she’s currently doing, resulting in poised posture that feels effortless and in fluid, easy movement. The benefits of the Alexander Technique are now becoming more widely realized with the general public, but it is already well-established in the performing arts. Frederick M. Alexander, who developed the Technique around 1900, was an actor who overcame problems with hoarseness through the changes he made in his body mechanics. Many schools, including the Juilliard School, offer the Technique to their students. Well-known performers have studied the Technique, including Hilary Swank, Paul Newman, James Galway and Sting. REPLACING BAD POSTURE HABITS Good posture is essential to feeling your best and moving efficiently. When people learn I’m an Alexander Technique teacher and that it has to do with improving posture and body mechanics, they always comment that their own posture isn’t great. We all know that good posture is supposed to be better than collapsed or tense posture, but we find that when we try to have

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• • • the alexander technique |

achieve

Begin with Posture: The Alexander Technique good posture, our posture returns to business-asusual as soon as we stop thinking about it. This happens because our normal lessthan-ideal posture is a strong habit which is constantly and unconsciously being reinforced. Something habitual feels “right” to us and that which is non-habitual feels “wrong.” To get an immediate feel of this concept, try crossing your arms across your chest, noticing which arm is on top, then cross them with the other arm on top. The first way feels right, the other doesn’t, and we don’t typically do what doesn’t feel right. Some muscles are chronically overused in our habitual posture and others are not doing the job they are meant to do. I compare this to driving a car with the emergency brake on (excessive tension in the body) and somewhat deflated tires (a lack of appropriate tone where needed). The result is that the vehicle doesn’t function or perform as well as it should. We drivers then compensate in various ways, which adds to the problem. Our bodies have been in that compromised state for so long that often we don’t notice it.We don’t realize it’s not normal or necessary – we feel normal (“I have a bad back”) or we attribute what we feel to something else (“that’s what happens with age”) that is out of our control. We don’t realize that the way we are using our bodies could be contributing to the difficulty. But we aren’t as helpless as we think! With the Alexander Technique, you can consciously replace bad habits with new, efficient habits that become “normal” and lasting A MULTITUDE OF BENEFITS It is hard to imagine how good we can feel if we take off our “emergency brake” and learn more efficient body mechanics. Our sense of well-being greatly increases, and our discomfort or pain, if at all caused by or exacerbated by our old habits, is reduced or eliminated. Poised posture is effortless, and movement is efficient and easier. Poised posture is also perceived as more flattering and confident.Your posture affects everything, so when you improve it, many seemingly unrelated complaints or activities can improve. (See sidebar) With Alexander lessons you learn a method that gives you more control over how you feel or how well you perform your activities. My students have experienced all of the above, and more. Recently, a man who came to me

with pain because of scoliosis told me his lessons are helping him with his golf game. A woman who came to me with shoulder pain also found she is falling less often because of her improved coordination and balance. An Alexander Technique lesson is very different than therapies, chiropractic, yoga, or other ways of making changes to the body. The Alexander Technique is an educational method that changes total body habitual patterns, and the influence of the whole body’s patterns on individual parts is not ignored. Your role in Alexander lessons is not a passive one, and you won’t need to take Alexander lessons for life. Instead, you are an active participant in your learning of an educational method for identifying and changing your habitual way of using your entire body. With Alexander lessons, you learn the method and can then be independent of the teacher. FINDING THE RIGHT INSTRUCTOR The Alexander Technique has been taught for over 100 years. Alexander began a formal teacher training course in 1930 and there are now dozens of training courses and thousands of Alexander teachers around the world. Here in the United States, training courses approved by the American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT, www.amsatonline. org) are most closely modeled after the rigorous training course Alexander developed. To become an AmSAT-certified teacher of the Alexander Technique, the trainee must complete 1600 hours of training in an AmSATapproved training course which meets daily for over a minimum of three years. For information about research that has been done or is being done on the Alexander Technique, please go to www.amsatonline.org/research. I first encountered the Alexander Technique myself years ago, when I experienced its fundamental importance for me in overcoming much of the chronic pain I had developed from my training as a professional oboist. I went on to become a certified teacher and now help others learn this technique to overcome pain and improve participation in life’s activities. I invite you to consider trying the Alexander Technique. See what might be possible for you when you unravel tension patterns you’ve had most of your life, and regain your poise and fluidity of movement. I think you will be pleasantly surprised!

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Benefits of Lessons in the Alexander Technique • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Reduces or eliminates excessive tension Improves comfort at work and in daily activities Often reduces or eliminates nagging pain and discomfort (headaches, backaches, shoulder tension, knee pain, etc) because most is, to varying degrees, caused by or exacerbated by poor posture Improves quality and ease of performance in many activities: sports, the performing arts, public speaking Increases coordination and balance Provides lasting changes Gives more control over pain and tension to the individual Helps recovery from injury Has a protective effect against injury due to the increase in coordination and balance Improves range of motion Relieves stress Maintains or improves mobility in older adults Improves breathing Creates poised posture and fluid movement

FOR OLDER ADULTS: • Reduces or eliminates the aches and pains that are connected with lifelong tension patterns • Increases coordination and stability • Improves balance and reduces falls • Makes getting up from a chair, sofa, or toilet much easier • May allow a pleasurable continuation of or return to beloved activities such as gardening, playing with grandchildren, knitting, exercising • Preserves mobility and independence • Improves posture and maintains it over time

“see what might be possible for you when you unravel tension patterns you’ve had most of your life.”

Andrea Fedele is an AmSAT-certified teacher of the Alexander Technique with over 15 years of experience. To learn more about the Alexander Technique with Andrea, visit www.andreafedele.com or contact Andrea at anewfedele@yahoo.com.

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• • • lymphatic massage |

achieve

Looking Into Lymphatic Massage Stimulating the lymphatic system may promote healing. story | Michelle Schurman

hen it comes to all of your body’s systems, the lymphatic system often seems like the poor cousin – it doesn’t get a lot of attention and, some would say, the respect it deserves. A growing number of alternative health practitioners believe that taking special care of the lymphatic system – in the form of a massage – is an important way to support your immune system and overall wellness. It isn’t glamorous, but our lymphatic system works hard to support our immune system by clearing our body of cellular debris, metabolic waste and other toxins. It does this through a vast network of vessels and capillaries. They carry lymph fluid to our nodes – where waste is filtered out and white blood cells, called lymphocytes – attack invading organisms. Then, the vessels carry the fluid out of the nodes and back into circulation. Usually, this system works well on its own, with lymph fluid circulating in the body naturally through muscle contraction and regular exercise. But, what happens when the system becomes blocked, or even sluggish? The most obvious sign of impaired lymphatic function is swelling. A DELICATE FORM OF MASSAGE The idea of stimulating lymph flow was first introduced by Danish physiologist Emil Vodder in the 1930s as a treatment for chronic sinusitis. “Just think of the drainage in a pool. If everything gets clogged up, you…clean the filter. It’s the same with (lymph) drainage, you’re improving the flow and allowing it to drain and process in a natural way,” says Dr. Chaitali Nangrani, a physician and owner of Vedas Medical Spa and Wellness Center in the Woodlands. After years of working as a physician and ER doctor, Dr. Nangrani saw many patients who needed more than traditional medicine could provide. At Vedas, there are several different methods of lymphatic massage, all of them tailored to the client’s individual needs. To reduce facial swelling and bruising after cosmetic treatments, clients can receive lymphatic massage with the aid of two devices. The Hydrofacial delivers a gentle suctioning action to the face and neck, where

a large concentration of nodes are located.Dr. Nangrani says adding heat – with the help of a radio frequency device called the Venus Freeze – also helps to open up the glands, decrease swelling and improving the appearance of the skin. “The lymphatic system in our body is delicate, and lymph flows at a very slow rate. You are just trying to increase that rate with gentle pressures or direction changes,” says Dr. Nangrani. When lower extremities are involved, such as limbs or the abdomen, a massage therapist may perform manual lymphatic drainage. She says this is particularly beneficial after abdominal surgeries, such as liposuction. “(After surgery) all these lymphocytes go to target tissue where they need to do work in the body, but it takes longer for them to be drained from the area. That’s why there’s swelling and edema post surgically.”

“The body is smart, it’s doing its job...we are just helping improve the speed of lymphatic drainage, because we all want to be better soon, right?” — Dr. Nangrani OTHER HEALING BENEFITS OF LYMPHATIC MASSAGE? The American Association of Massage Therapists cautions consumers to be wary of sweeping claims that lymphatic massage will cure everything from migraines and eczema to chronic fatigue and arthritis. Dr. Nangrani agrees, adding that beyond the surgical patient, there is limited evidence of efficacy. However, she does recommend lymphatic massage for people with chronic infections, such as ear and sinus issues. She suggests these people have “congested lymphatics,” and even after the infection is treated with antibiotics, it keeps recurring because of stagnant fluid or “debris” which needs to be cleaned out. “The body is smart, it’s doing its job…we are just helping it so that it does it a little bit faster and improve the speed of lymphatic drainage, because we all want to be better soon, right?” In Europe, lymphatic massage is often

recommended before and after surgery and in India, pregnant and nursing women get lymphatic massages to improve drainage and balance hormones. Some cancer patients find manual lymphatic drainage helpful in reducing swelling and improving nerve pain after radiation. And, it may have applications as well in the field of sports medicine. A 2009 review of studies in the Journal of Manipulative and Manual therapy showed that lymphatic massage can help reduce pain and swelling and help speed the recovery of muscle cells after exercise. Dr. Nangrani believes we’re only beginning to understand how this treatment may contribute to immunity, detoxification and overall wellness. “(Years ago) your system was much more clear, now there is so much load on our system from all these chemicals that we are having to take care of it in a better, more unique way…there needs to be more awareness on the healing benefits of lymphatic massage,” says Dr. Nangrani. You should consult with your health professional if you are considering lymphatic massage and make sure your therapist is specially trained in this technique.

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Michelle Schurman is an award-winning journalist and freelance writer based in The Woodlands. She is a mother of three, who enjoys writing about health, nutrition, parenting, relationships and lifestyle topics.

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achieve

| easing the pain • • •

Massage Therapy for Chronic Pain Relief story | Michelle Schurman

any of us enjoy getting a massage purely for relaxation – cue the calming nature sounds, spa-like atmosphere and a set of skilled hands. For most, it’s an hour away from the stress and pressures of our everyday lives. But what if your massage could have a more lasting and therapeutic effect? Mindy is a 31-year-old mother of two in The Woodlands, who suffered from severe neck pain and headaches. She attributes much of the tension in her neck to carrying around two heavy toddlers. “I would pretty much take a muscle relaxer almost every day just to get enough relief to go to sleep. My pain was a 7 or 8 out of 10 on a fairly regular basis, even with regular massages,” she says. At that point, she knew she was ready to try something different. Mindy decided to try two specialized forms of massage known as Myofascial Release (MFR) and Craniosacral Therapy (CST). “Most of the clientele that come for these two therapies have tried regular massage, regular physical therapy, they’ve done cortisone shots, they’ve had back surgeries. They are looking for answers,” says Anjali Gadre, the owner of Inner Bliss Yoga and Wellness Center in Creekside. Gadre has been practicing both of these techniques for over 20 years – first as a physical therapist in New York, and now at Inner Bliss in The Woodlands as a certified massage therapist and yoga instructor. MYOFASCIAL RELEASE EXPLAINED Myofascial release is a form of bodywork which targets the “fascia,” the connective tissue that holds our bodies together. Running from head to toe, it surrounds and attaches to all structures, including muscle. It may help to think of it as our “internal skin.” Problems arise when the fascia becomes tight or restricted due to injury, trauma, surgery or inflammation. This may cause pain and limited mobility in other parts of the body. “Even though a client may come here for shoulder problems, we may find that the problem originates right here,” she says, pointing to the lower back. “The problem starts here, but it goes like a spider web throughout the body, because fascia is continuous,” says Gadre. To find these areas of tightness, Gadre gives her clients a complete evaluation, both visually and then by palpating the muscle to see i•am 28 www.i-ammagazine.com

myofascial release is emerging as a strategy with a solid evidence base and tremendous potential. resource: Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies

how it feels. “No MRI or CT scan can show you fascial restrictions, it is all done by feel. The fascial build-up is bigger at the primary site than it is at the secondary site (where the pain arises),” says Gadre. To relieve the tightness and provide relief, a therapist specially trained in myofascial release will apply gentle and sustained pressure into the fibrous tissue until it becomes elastic. It is less aggressive than a deep tissue massage, because the therapist actually waits for the body’s response. “If there is a knot, you only go in as deep as the fascia allows. You cannot force it… it is very strong. The only way to stretch it is time. When you hold a stretch for longer than one minute, you can really stretch the fascia. In myofascial release, if I see a knot I push into the muscle and wait, wait for the fascia to melt down, let it go, then I go deeper.” It is interesting to note that there are no creams, oils or devices used in myofascial release because it is so important for the therapist to feel the true state of the fascia. Gadre says it isn’t painful, but clients may have a strange sense of muscle looseness when they first stand up, especially if they’ve suffered with the condition for years and are finally starting to feel relief. A number of studies have shown myo-

fascial release to be effective in the treatment of orthopedic issues, plantar heel pain, and chronic low back pain, when combined with specific back exercises. A 2014 comprehensive review of these and other studies, published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, found that, “Myofascial release is emerging as a strategy with a solid evidence base and tremendous potential.”

studies have shown myofascial release to be effective in the treatment of orthopedic issues, plantar heel pain, and chronic low back pain, when combined with specific back exercises. WHAT IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY? Much less is known and understood about the benefits of Craniosacral Therapy – some argue it is based more on a belief system

rather than actual scientific evidence. This therapy focuses on the central nervous system – practitioners believe that very subtle “holds” at selected points on the body can influence the pressure and circulatory rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the brain and spinal cord. “I will start with your feet, and I am looking for the rhythm. Then, the pelvis, the diaphragm and the head. It is a series of holds, but there is no pressure - no more than a nickel sitting on your head. If you press too hard, then you don’t feel the rhythm,” says Gadre. By balancing the rhythm of the central nervous system, it’s thought that all of the body’s other systems can relax and self correct, releasing the body from pain and restrictions. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is currently supporting research into craniosacral therapy as a preventative tool for migraine headaches and as a complement to conventional care. To date, there is little scientific evidence to suggest it provides more than a very relaxing, noninvasive way to relieve stress and tension. Gadre says the two techniques work well together. “Optimally, the cranial system needs to be balanced before I do myofascial work on a client. Sometimes, at first, they can’t even tolerate pressure on the fascia, it’s too painful. Once their nerves calm down then I can work on the muscles. So, they go hand in hand,” says Gadre. This approach seems to be working for Mindy, who now comes once a month for “maintenance” massages, and is working hard to better manage the stress in her life. “I live without pain most of the time, which is completely different from where I was before,” she says. At Inner Bliss, clients can also take advantage of a complete wellness team – consisting of a physical therapist, yoga instructors, a Reiki practitioner and a health and nutrition coach. Gadre says combining regular massages with “homework” in other areas of wellness can help clients feel better, longer. “If you come to me for one hour of treatment, but you don’t do anything for the other 6 days…you will come back to me tight again. So, what you do in between sessions is as important as what you are doing in the sessions. “ The wellness center also offers monthly meetings to help support clients on their journey to inner bliss.

Heal your body! Transform your life! Our team of specialists can help your mind, body and soul find the path to Inner Bliss.

Authentic Hatha Yoga

Specialized programs and private instruction

Massage

Swedish, prenatal and for cancer patients

Craniosacral Therapy Myofascial Release Physical Therapy Health Coaching Meditation Reiki Free yoga classes offered during the summer. Call or visit our website for more information.

•

www.innerblissstudio.com • (832) 610-5564 25420 Kuykendahl Rd., Suite F 600, The Woodlands

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| girlology • • •

Giggles, girl talk...

AND PUBERTY? MOMS AND DAUGHTERS SHARE PUBERTY FACTS AND LAUGHS AT GIRLOLOGY EVENTS. story | Michelle Schurman

ou might be forgiven if you think you’re at a Tupperware or Stella and Dot party. As guests arrive, they are given nametags, offered snacks and invited to take a seat in the comfortable living room of this Woodlands home. About 16 mothers and their daughters are attending a private invitation-only party, led by Woodlands ob-gyn and Girlologist Dr. Emma Sims. Welcome to a new way of delivering educaA NEW TYPE OF SEX EDUCATION tion to girls about their changing bodies. Girlol Girlology, and its counterpart Guyology ogy is a program to jump start the dialog between for boys and their dads, is an age-appropriate mothers and daughters in a fun, informal way sexual education program founded by two docand encourage these talks to continue. tors in South Carolina in 2002. Since then, it “Let’s say puberty and just shout that has grown into a national brand with “girloloword out loud!” she says excitedly to a room gists” and “guyologists” in 10 states including full of 9 and 10-year-old girls. “If you can Texas, Alabama, Florida, Illinois and Idaho. survive the next ten minutes as we go The first installment of the Girlology through these words and not pass out, program, Something New About You, is then you will get through the next a puberty program aimed at 4th and two hours!” And with that, she 5th graders. The younger, the better, reveals Girlology’s Top 10 list of according to Girlology co-founder giggle-inducing words. Laughter Dr. Melisa Holmes. “Puberty is fills the room, as moms and their starting earlier for girls and boys today daughters chuckle over words like so we know, scientifically, if a young Dr. Sims boobs, buttocks, panties and periods. girl is not experiencing puberty herself, “It’s about opening up that somebody in her class is,” she says. conversation. Right now it’s puberty, but in the Dr. Holmes, an ob/gyn, and pediatrifuture it’s drugs, sex and bigger topics than we cian Dr. Trish Hutchison partnered to develop can cover at this age. [The idea is to help girls] the program because they kept hearing from open up and know that their mom is someone mothers who wanted help approaching their they can come to,” says Dr. Sims, who operated daughters with this type of information. She her own practice in the Woodlands for nine says schools do the best they can, but are often years. These days she’s taking her passion for limited by religious and political concerns. adolescent gynecology and education, along Physicians are limited too – by the time conwith her affable bedside manner, on the road straints of a typical office visit. A 2013 Duke – delivering talks in homes and public venues University study showed that development and throughout the Woodlands. sexual health were not discussed in one-third i•am 30 www.i-ammagazine.com

of routine “well child” visits with adolescents. And even when that conversation happened, it only lasted for 35 seconds. She says parents wanted an alternative. And even though we may feel more comfortable talking to kids about such matters than our parents ever did, many moms are relieved to have a fun, group “ice-breaker” like Girlology to start an ongoing conversation with their daughters. “We can give factual information as health care providers and let the parents impart their values,” says Dr. Holmes. “CRINGE-FREE” DISCUSSIONS IN A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE At this Girlology party, the girls seem to be genuinely excited and curious about the changes their bodies will soon be going through. The two-hour talk is a “cringe-free” discussion that doesn’t talk about sex, but simply demystifies puberty. It touches on breast development, bra shopping, hair growth (a.k.a a visit from the “Hairy Fairy”), hygiene, menstruation, moods and emotions. Dr. Sims keeps things light and funny with her vagina puppet named “Gina” and a stuffed uterus! All kidding aside, Girlology is catching on as the U.S. continues to face the highest adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted

disease (STD) rate of all developed countries. “Science has proven that kids who have close relationships with their parents, who talk openly and honestly about sexuality and other things…they are [more] protected,” points out Dr. Holmes. “They have their ‘sexual debut’ later than other kids, they have fewer sexual partners and they’re more likely to protect themselves when they do become sexually active.” Many of the moms in attendance appreciated the frank nature of the information and feel more confident addressing the topics with their daughters. “I enjoyed the appropriate amount of humor mixed in with it, so you just got it all out there and it was ok to laugh,” says Lynette, one of the moms at the party. “When I was growing up, you listened to a speech, you weren’t allowed to laugh, it wasn’t supposed to be funny and you weren’t allowed to talk about it,” Girls go home with a goody bag and a book published by Girlology – it’s one of four available for girls and there’s also one for boys. The organization’s appealing and informationrich website, www.girlology.com, offers further information for both moms and daughters to learn more and keep the dialogue going long after the party is over.

•

Today, I’ve Come to the Conclusion that I’m Pretty... story | Cathy Brown

I hate the whole “beauty” thing. I am not one to be fou nd at a store like Sephora.

I like pretty things, but I don’t think I am pretty. I look in the mirror and wish I was thinner…like those Victoria’s Secret models. I see a whole lot of gray hair, age spots, and wrinkles where none u sed to be. I wish I were taller…I’m 5’2”. I don’t like my body proportions…too long here, too short there, too rou nd here, and too flat there.

I struggle with my image. Which, I am su re, is no different than anyone else. A s

a woman, I see magazine ads, television shows and movies that portray to me what a woman should look like. I tell myself, like every good person should, that I’m made

PROGRAMS OFFERED IN THE WOODLANDS: GIRLOLOGY PROGRAMS: Something New About You 4th and 5th grade girls and their moms Body Talk 6th and 7th grade girls and their moms Going Out 7th and 8th grade girls and their moms It’s Complicated 9th and 10th grade girls, no moms GUYOLOGY PROGRAMS: Just the Facts 4th and 5th grade boys and their dads Aww Man 6th and 7th grade boys and their dads Going Out 7th and 8th grade boys and their dads It’s Complicated 9th and 10th grade boys, no dads To schedule a program, visit

www.girlology.com

u niquely and don’t need to change a thing. Blah, blah, blah. It doesn’t change the fact that I still feel inadequate.

I don’t think I can recall a time in my life where I didn’t want to change some

aspect of my image...whether it was my hair, makeup, weight, or clothes. At what point do we finally throw in the towel and like ou rselves?

I’ve decided that despite what I see on screen or in magazines, I’m going to give

myself a break…show myself a little grace. I’ve come to the conclu sion that I’m pretty ju st as I am. I’ve spent many years trying to look like what I thought was pretty but I can’t seem to get there. I guess I’m tired of trying to look like anything other than myself. All this being said, I know my brain is going to see my mirrored reflection and continue to harp on how I should change. In the Psalms, David said, “You made me in the secret place…” (Ps 139:15) I love that. I love that in a secret room, known only to God, he made this girl. He put blue eyes on her and dark hair. He designed her DNA for prematu re gray hair. He gave her long legs but a short body. He made her perfectly.

I’m going to believe God knew what He was doing when He made me. I’m going to

believe that when I see my reflection in a mirror, I am made in His image. I am going to release the death grip on the image I have in my mind of beauty and believe that ju st as I am, I am beautiful.

•

Cathy Brown is a wife and stay-at-home mom with one son. She was formerly a consultant in the market research industry until being diagnosed with MS and leaving the corporate world behind. Today Cathy enjoys blogging about her passions and beliefs through her site www.deepbreathes.wordpress.com.

www.i-ammagazine.com

i•am

My Tummy Hurts SPECIAL BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

lmost all children have abdominal pain “Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is comat one time or another. In fact, pain in mon among children and adolescents, especially the gut is one of the most common at the end of the summer, the beginning of the complaints seen by pediatricians. school year and after the holidays,” says Amanda Other relatively benign conditions can lead to Schuck-Phan, D.O., a pediatric gastroenteroloabdominal pain, including gas, food allergies gist affiliated with Children’s Memorial Heror intolerance, heartburn or acid reflux, colic, mann at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands. stomach flu or food poisoning. Pain may also be “IBS tends to be worsened by anxiety or any caused by anxiety or depression. major change in the environment. The condiThe best advice for parents is to ask the tion can be very distressing for children, because child to describe the pain and point out where they’re in pain, and for parents, who aren’t sure it is located, keeping track of when it may what’s causing the problem.” be worse. Generalized pain or pain that While there’s not a single comis present in more than half the belly mon cause for IBS, the new thought is may be caused by a stomach virus – that the condition may result from a or more commonly by constipation. change in the bacterial microenvironOnce kids are potty trained, parents ment of the gut, leading to overgrowth are not as aware of their bowel habits of certain bacteria. That change may Dr. Schuck-Phan unless they ask regularly if they’ve gone be caused by treatment with antibiotics, to the bathroom. Constipation is easily recent infection or sudden variation in a treated with changes in diet, increased exercise child’s diet. and over-the-counter medications. The diagnosis of IBS is made by exclu Fortunately when tummy pain seems sion. After infection, celiac disease and allergies to be taking over a child’s daily routine, present in the GI tract are ruled out, it’s most Children’s Memorial Hermann at Memorial likely IBS, which is related to hypersensitivity Hermann The Woodlands Hospital is close by of the GI tract. and equipped to care for premature babies in When kids suffer general abdominal its Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and pain that is not localized, home care remedies children through adolescence in its dedicated may help relieve the pain. Offer sips of water Pediatric Unit and two area emergency rooms. and other clear liquids. Avoid solid food for a Pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists affew hours, and then try small amounts of soft filiated with Children’s Memorial Hermann foods – applesauce or crackers. Do not give include specialists in pediatric gastroenterology aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen or similar for digestive issues in children. medicines without first checking with your

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child’s healthcare provider. If pain does not improve within 24 hours, gets worse, becomes more frequent or is localized, it may be a sign of appendicitis, gallstones, stomach ulcers or hernia. See your doctor immediately. IBS is a concern for kids who come in with pain, diarrhea, weight loss and blood in the stool. When these symptoms are present, the condition is diagnosed by endoscopy and colonoscopy. Typically, a pediatric gastroenterologist is then looking for ulcerative colitis, a chronic disease that causes inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining of the large intestine, or for Crohn’s disease, which can cause inflammation that affects the entire gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the colon. While only ulcerative colitis is curable with removal of the colon for very severe cases, both conditions are treatable. Pediatric gastroenterologists also treat celiac disease, an immune disorder in which foods containing gluten cause inflammation in the small intestine. Symptoms may occur in the digestive system and include abdominal pain, diarrhea and poor growth. Most kids with celiac disease do well on a gluten-free diet. In general, to prevent many types of abdominal pain, make sure your child avoids fatty or greasy foods, drinks plenty of water every day, exercises regularly, avoids foods that produce gas and eats a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. For a physician referral, call Memorial Hermann at 713.222.CARE (2273).

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SPECIAL BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

To Screen or Not to Screen: The Changing Landscape of Prenatal Testing

story | Karen Kephart

efore the availability of cell-free fetal DNA testing, expectant mothers at high risk of delivering babies with genetic or chromosomal disorders relied on the first-trimester and/or serum screening, which detect between 80 and 95 percent of cases of Down syndrome and a lower percentage of trisomy 18 and trisomy 13. Now, the cell-free fetal DNA test, used primarily for women age 35 or older or those who have other risk factors, has been found to be much more accurate in screening, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) in 2014. “The cell-free DNA test provides expectant parents with increased confidence that these three chromosomal disorders are not present, when compared to prior methods,” says Amber Samuel, M.D., a maternal-fetal medicine specialist affiliated with Children’s Memorial Hermann at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital. “However, an abnormal result on the new blood test still needs to be confirmed by either chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis. In the study reported by NEJM, in more than half the cases in which the cell-free DNA test predicted a chromosomal disorder, it was absent. Additionally, all noninvasive screens detect only some of

the genetic abnormalities that may be present.” Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) can be performed safely between 11 to 13 weeks of gestation, as opposed to amniocentesis, which is most safely performed after the 15th week of pregnancy. Formerly, mothers in Montgomery County who were concerned about their baby’s genetic information – and wanted answers earlier than 15 weeks – had to drive to Houston for CVS. The test is now available in The Woodlands. “The first decision for expectant parents is whether or not they want to know genetic information about their pregnancy,” says Dr. Samuel, who performs Dr. Samuel chorionic villus sampling every week. “They should consider this question before they undergo the first blood screen. For parents who want to have all the information about the genetics of the pregnancy that modern medicine can provide early in pregnancy, CVS is the best choice. Although the risk of miscarriage is less than 1 percent, the decision to move forward with genetic and chromosomal testing is a very personal one.” CVS is an invasive test that can determine chromosomal or genetic disorders in the fetus using a sample of the placental tissue, also known as the chorionic villi, to evaluate the baby’s chromosomes. The test can be done through the cervix, known as transcervical CVS, or through

the abdomen – transabdominal CVS. An abdominal ultrasound is performed to determine the position of the uterus, the size of the gestational sac and the position of the placenta within the uterus, and to guide the procedure. “The approach high-risk pregnancy specialists use depends on the location of the placenta,” Dr. Samuel says. “If the placenta is high and in front, transabdominal CVS is more appropriate. If the placenta is low in the uterus or toward the mother’s back, transcervical CVS is the preferred approach. The transcervical procedure is performed by inserting a thin plastic tube through the vagina and cervix to reach the placenta. The physician uses real-time ultrasound images to help guide the tube into the appropriate area and then removes a small sample of chorionic villi. The transabdominal approach is performed by inserting a needle through the abdomen and uterus and into the placenta under direct ultrasound guidance. “When expectant parents with babies at high risk for genetic disorders face decisions during the pregnancy,” Dr. Samuel says, “high-risk pregnancy specialists are here to guide them.” The Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands provides care for babies delivered at any gestational age. For a physician referral, call Memorial Hermann at 713.222.CARE (2273).

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www.i-ammagazine.com

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