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Making Alternatives Affordable Getting Coverage for All Needs
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January 2017 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com January 2017 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center
Optimize Your Smile and Your Health! Whole-Body Dentistry® provides comprehensive oral health care using traditional and holistic approaches. We understand the “mouth-body connection.” Mark A. Breiner, DDS
Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry Fellow of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Speaker and best-selling author of Whole-Body Dentistry®
Mercury-free for over 30 years, Dr. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of biological and holistic dentistry.
WholeBodyDentistry.com 203-371-0300
501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
Doesn’t it make sense to see the authority?
The Natural Choice – The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center Caring Naturopathic Physicians Offering the Best in Holistic Healing
Our integrative approach treats a widerange of conditions including: ADD/ADHD Allergies Anxiety & Depression Autism Brain Injuries Candidiasis Chronic Fatigue (or Fatigue Concerns) Difficulty Concentrating Female Concerns Fibromaylgia
Gastrointestinal Concerns Healthy Aging Hormonal Issues Immune Disorders Lyme Disease RSD Sports Injuries Stress-related Symptoms Thyroid & Adrenal Issues Toxicities Weight Gain
Learn more about our approach. Watch our new therapy videos – all on our website!
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Dr. Adam Breiner, ND, Director Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND & Dr. David M. Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) EEG Neurofeedback Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Homeopathy Energy Medicine Electrodermal Screening Metabolic Typing
WholeBodyMed.com 203-371-8258
Functional Medicine Colon Hydrotherapy Natural Hormone Therapy Herbal Medicine Nutritional Assessment Allergy Desensitization FDA-cleared Phototherapy Detoxification Abdominal Manual Therapy
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501 Kings Highway East, Suite 108, Fairfield CT
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Whole-Body Medicine, LLC – The Natural Approach for Optimal Health
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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contents
2017
IS THE YEAR TO TAKE CHARGE OF GROWING YOUR BUSINESS It is essential for wellness professionals to have a strong presence both online and offline. That’s why Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT and Total Wellness Connect are partnering to offer you a cost-effective way to have both.
Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.
20 UPDATING THE
PHYSICIAN’S BAG Providers Grapple with
36
Old Tools, New Needs
by Yufang Lin
22 REDEFINING
MEDICAL CARE How the Changing Health
Care Paradigm Helps Patients
by Angela Pascopella
38
26 PHYSICIAN PROFILES
Launching Jan 15. Get a year’s membership to TWC’s powerful online networking & business education platform.
36 AFFORDABLE
Valued at $708 Benefits include: • Network with vetted wellness professionals • Learn through webinars from business and health experts • Get continuous business and marketing education
COMPLEMENTARY CARE Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less
by Meredith Montgomery
46
38 FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE FOR PETS
Why the Best Vets Use It by Shawn Messonnier Get up to 3 listings in Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/ Housatonic Valley, CT February Directory issue, which is distributed yearlong. Must sign up by Jan. 12 to be in the issue.
46 HOLISTIC DERMATOLOGY Inner Health, Radiant Skin by Linda Sechrist
52 TRANSCEND TRAUMA WITH EMDR Energy Psychology Helps
• Reach over 60,000+ readers per month!
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Boost Health by Judith Fertig
na.totalwellnessconnect.com 4
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
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58 FITNESS 2017
New Year’s Resolutions that Stick by Aimee Hughes
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7 newsbriefs 14 healthbriefs 16 globalbriefs 18 masteringyoga 19 wisewords 26 physicianprofiles 36 healingways 38 naturallyhealthypet 39 ecotip 43 petresourceguide 52 therapyspotlight 54 inspiredtable 56 consciouseating 59 calendar 63 classifieds 64 resourceguide 70 displayadindex
Natural Awakenings is now in the
HOUSATONIC VALLEY!
advertising & submissions HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 203-885-4674 or email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for News Briefs: the 12th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Visit eNaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for magazine calendar listings: the 12th of the month. Website calendar listings may be entered at any time. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
Send us your news, your advertising requests, and share our FREE monthly magazines at your place of business in Fairfield County and now also the
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letterfrompublisher
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contact us Publisher/Executive Editor Nicole Miale Editor Ariana Rawls Fine Design & Production Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills Contributing Writers Gwen Gangi, Yufang Lin, Stacey Lyons, Mary Oquendo, Angela Pascopella, Stacy Raymond, Kurt Waples Sales & Marketing Leslie McLean, Nicole Miale, Debbie Morgan Distribution Man in Motion LLC Natural Awakenings Fairfield County 54 Danbury Rd, Ste 323 Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-885-4674 Fax: 203-516-2392 NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com eNaturalAwakenings.com NAWebstore.com NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com © 2017 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.
vividly recall a conversation back in graduate school about the potential implications of the Affordable Care Act. We were asked what concerned us most about the legislation. My instant, instinctive response was, “It makes insurance access synonymous with healthcare, and they’re not the same thing.” I still believe that placing third parties—the government, insurance companies or others—in a position of authority over individuals’ healthcare choices and options is a terrible idea. It is my personal belief—not all will agree—that people should have open access to Nicole Miale any and all practitioners they think can help them and it should be between the patient and provider to determine appropriate compensation for the care provided. How would that be done on a grand scale? How do we, as a society, grapple with the rising costs of healthcare— or rather disease care—while expanding access for more Americans and widening the options of care delivery? I do not have the answers but I hope these questions and other related ones are honestly debated on Capitol Hill and in state legislatures as the healthcare situation in this country gets a fresh look in 2017. At a time when the conventional mainstream medical system is failing many, people are turning in droves to the so-called complementary and alternative modalities for relief of what ails them. In our area we’re fortunate to have many physicians who have been blazing trails for years and more are moving away from the conventional model. This month’s articles and profiles shine a light and a hopeful eye to a future where more people will be able to work in collaboration with their diverse, personally chosen healthcare team to achieve and maintain individual personal wellness goals. We asked area physicians with varied backgrounds how their beliefs about being a doctor are changing as the healthcare paradigm shifts; you may be intrigued by some of their responses. We also looked at alternatives to insurance for people who seek more non-conventional care; there are some interesting options available. In other news, I am very excited to announce that this edition of Natural Awakenings is spreading its wings and geographic territory! You may notice on the cover that we’re no longer confined to “just” Fairfield County. We will soon be the go-to natural health and empowerment resource for all of western Connecticut. We are excited about the potential this creates for new connections. Please be in touch soon if you’re a Litchfield county-based business or practitioner who would like to join the Natural Awakenings community; we can’t wait to meet you! Lastly, it’s not too late to be a part of our February Natural Living Directory, our biggest issue of the year, which will be distributed all year long in 2017. The final deadline approaches on January 12; do not delay if you want to be included in the reference guide kept all year by our more than 60,000 readers! Here’s to a peaceful, abundant and hopeful 2017 for us all. It begins with us as individuals. Do what you can to be what you want the world to be, in each moment. That’s all any one of us can do. With love and wishes for good health,
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $30 (for 12 issues) to the above address. Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
See our advertiser index on page 70. Making it easier to find the resources you need. natural awakenings
newsbriefs New Integrative Medical Practice Opens in Stamford
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new integrative medical practice called Integrative MD has been opened in Stamford by Tatiana Fleischman, a board-certified internal medicine physician who balances evidencebased modern medicine with the art of traditional healing practices. Her practice offers internal medicine and primary care services as well as nutritional evaluation and therapy, body weight and composition management, sleep and stress manTatiana Fleischman agement, holistic assessment with detox, and advanced laboratory testing. “Achieving true wellness requires an approach from many angles, such as lifestyle, home and work environment, family history, genetics, diet and exercise,” says Fleischman. She explains that she starts building a healing partnership with a comprehensive assessment of every patient’s unique life circumstances and health challenges. Together, they create a personalized wellness plan that not only addresses the current conditions, but also includes long-term goals focusing on prevention and healthy lifestyle. This roadmap to wellness is built upon proper nutrition, exercise, lifestyle changes and stress management. The office is open for appointments Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. For more information, visit IntegrativeMDCenter.com or call 203-275-6666. Location: 47 Oak St, Ste 110, Stamford.
Cupping Therapy Workshop
C
upping has been used for centuries by almost every culture to help heal, rejuvenate and invigorate. Passed down through generations by grandmothers and folk healers, cupping has played an important role in self-care in many settings. On January 21 from 1 to 4pm, a workshop in Norwalk will provide an opportunity to learn about traditional therapeutic cupping and how it can be applied to your own health care needs. Debra Diers, a licensed acupuncturist and registered nurse in Glastonbury, will teach the correct techniques for application; when and where to cup; and when, where and who not to cup. Learn how to help alleviate those everyday aches and pains, relax and loosen stiff muscles, and invigorate blood flow and synovial fluids in painful joints. Find out how to get rid of a cold in the early stages, and help alleviate menstrual cramps, carpal tunnel and tendonitis. There will be demonstrations as well as opportunity for hands-on experience. The workshop is $49 per person. Seating is limited. To register, call 203-216-2548. Location: Acupuncture Healing of Connecticut, 166 East Ave, Ste 201, Norwalk.
DBT: Dialectical Behavior Therapy Do you want to: Increase joy and happiness and decrease stress? Create a lifetime of fulfillment by learning how to establish and maintain meaningful relationships, while building mastery and skillfulness in all areas of your life. yoga • meDITaTIon • mInDfulneSS DBT InDIvIDual TheRapy • DBT gRoup TheRapy CognITIve BehavIoRal TheRapy
1-888-745-3372 5 Sylvan Road South, Westport, CT 06880 fax 203-307-5788 • www.ccbhtherapy.com
LET US TREAT
Y U to a free pilates class
Mind-Body Connection Pilates pilatesMBC.com | New Milford, CT | 860.350.3643
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January 2017
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newsbriefs
Ann’s Place Welcomes New President and CEO
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Chaski Fest Benefit for Standing Rock
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he World Conscious Pact presents Chaski Fest for Standing Rock at Danbury’s A Common Ground Community Arts Center on January 28 at 6pm. It’s a free concert to gather donations and raise awareness about the next steps regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). Attendees will hear first-hand accounts from those returning from Standing Rock, and enjoy live poetry by Danbury’s Atom Rush and traveling monk Atulananda Swami from Chile, followed by traditional sounds from the Ecuadorian Andes and more. The community is invited to enjoy the free public show to gather donations for Oceti Sakowin camp. Energy Transfer Partners has vowed to complete the pipeline and 575 water protectors are still facing charges. As conscious community members, now is the time to stand in solidarity and learn how we can ensure the protection of water and sacred lands. The battle for water is not over yet; learn what’s ahead and how you can support water protectors. Chaski is the indigenous Quechua word for messenger. Chaski Fests are worldwide gatherings of conscious artists and activists united as messengers for the rights of nature. For more information, visit WorldConsciousPact.org, email WorldConsciousPactNortheast@gmail.com, call 203-448 9886 or connect on Facebook with World Conscious Pact Northeast. Location: A Common Ground Community Arts Center, 33 Crosby St, Danbury. See ad, page 37.
nn’s Place’s board of directors announced Shannon Cobb as the organization’s new president and CEO, helping to expand the mission of providing comfort, support and resources to people living with cancer and their loved ones. Cobb, a resident of Danbury for the last 15 years, comes to Ann’s Place from United Way of WestchesShannon Cobb ter and Putnam, where she served as senior vice president of marketing, communications and community impact. She is a communications and program professional with more than 23 years of experience in nonprofit agencies across the country. “We are delighted to welcome Shannon as our new president and CEO. She brings a wealth of nonprofit experience, strong leadership skills and a personality that exudes her enthusiasm for our mission,” said David Nurnberger, chairman of the board of directors. Over the next year, Cobb will focus on increasing visibility for Ann’s Place, enhancing donor and volunteer engagement, and creating a long-term sustainability plan for the Danbury facilities. Celebrating 25 years in the community, Ann’s Place is a nonprofit community-based organization serving Connecticut and the lower Hudson Valley that offers counseling, support groups, wellness activities, referrals to community resources and educational programs, all at no charge. For more information, to donate or volunteer, visit AnnsPlace.org, call 203-790-6568, or connect at Facebook. com/AnnsPlace or Twitter.com/AnnsPlaceInc. Location: 80 Saw Mill Rd, Danbury.
Escape to a Pure, Organic Home for Beauty
Full Service Unisex Hair Salon Organic Way The world’s first professional beauty line handcrafted with pure essential oils, biodynamic botanicals and fair trade ingredients. Let us show you the benefits of choosing an all-natural alternative to conventional beauty care. We provide natural hair care for the entire family. 469 W. Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 900-1515 Bookings@salon469.com www.Salon469.com OW
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
OPeN
Ridgefield Physician Has New Offices
V
icki Sara Blumberg, MD, is boardcertified in internal medicine with 30 years of experience. In 2017, she will have a new office in Ridgefield in addition to a Vicki Sara Blumberg fresh collaboration with Elizabeth Jorgenson at Insight Counseling. Blumberg started her career in a large family practice in New Fairfield, followed by a solo Danbury-based practice where she cared for over 4,000 patients for many years. After developing an autoimmune disease, she took a detour from clinical practice to pursue clinical research. Blumberg opened a clinical research investigator site in Ridgefield and participated in over 20 clinical trials, including a landmark trial regarding the influenza vaccine for the elderly. She focuses on a more holistic way of looking at 21st century illnesses— especially allergic, autoimmune and chronic illnesses—the relationship between the immune system and the microbiome, and the field of low dose immunotherapy. Treatment of Lyme disease is a particular specialty of hers. Elizabeth Jorgensen, the founder and director of Insight Counseling, will work together with Blumberg to care for patients struggling with the emotional and physical binds of addiction. Blumberg will be sharing the treatment of patients suffering from opiate use disorder. As an additional service, she is able to certify patients for Connecticut’s medical marijuana program, only when deemed appropriate and in the patient’s best interest, according to the guidelines set by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. For more information, call 203-4033907. New location: 158 Danbury Rd, Ste, 3, Ridgefield. See ad for Insight Counseling, page 3.
eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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newsbriefs
Launch of Roots Rising Alchemy Coaching
Explore Energy Body Via Tibetan Yogic Movement
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H
tarting January 22 and ending March 26 at Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center in Washington Depot, Alex Boianghu will present a 10-week series exploring the map of the subtle body, which includes the chakras and energy channels. The practices of Tsa (channels) Lung (energy) were developed in Tibet during the 11th century as a way to support meditation practice. Since humans are energetic beings, Alex Boianghu stagnation and blockages in the energetic system also create physical and mental “dis-ease”. You will learn the nine breathings of purification, which prepare the channels for Tsa Lung. In addition, Boianghu will teach the five Tsa Lung movements and special breath retention techniques that help in clearing subtle body blockages. The class will be taught by Boianghu, who completed a five-year training program with Alejandro Chaoul of Ligmincha International. The series is $250 per person ($225 for early registration before January 15). For more information, call Alex Boianghu at 203-994-7295. Location: Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. See ad, page 21.
ealth coach Melissa Conroy, principal of Roots Rising Alchemy, is now offering 1-on-1 health coaching services, including The Total Transformation 90-day Program and the 14-day Cleanse Reset. “The average person makes the same resolution 10 separate times without success, [and that it is due to] lacking the right system, support and accountability a health coach provides Melissa Conroy to reach their goals and make lasting health transformations,” explains Conroy. To learn more about the new services, you can book a free Total Transformation Discovery Session to discover what has been keeping you from having the health and body you want. You will look at developing a powerful vision for what a total health transformation means for you and your life. In addition, discover which foods and lifestyle habits are sapping your energy and bringing your body down. Together, create a step-by-step plan to manifest a total transformation in 90 days. For more information or to schedule a free Total Transformation Discovery Session, visit RootsRisingAlchemy.com, email RootsRisingAlchemy@gmail.com or call 203-673-9491. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 65.
DID YOU REALIZE THAT
TOXINS Toxins drive neurological, metabolic (including weight gain), immune and cardiovascular illnesses – and any disease ending in “itis”. We have the knowledge and technology to help your body heal itself. For 25+ years, our patients have enjoyed remarkable success with naturopathic treatments which cleanse, detox, nourish, repair and balance. Call us to schedule an appointment:
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF
INFLAMMATION?
D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8
1 We s t p o r t A v e n u e Norwalk, CT 06851
Virtual Gastric Band Hypnosis Group Launches
Homegrown Plant Medicine & Self Care Products Made With Organic, Local Ingredients
I
s your New Year’s resolution to lose weight? Hypnosis Center of Connecticut’s Ryan Jett will launch a four-week, weightloss group program beginning on January 14 at 10am. The virtual gastric band is a five-session hypnosis program available in private or group sessions. It is a non-surgical technique which uses the power of hypnosis to retrain you to be satisfied with smaller amounts of food. This allows you to eat what you want, but causes you to take in smaller portions. One of the biggest benefits of this program is that you can make small, realistic changes you can actually live with. Whereas the actual medical procedure reduces the physical size of the stomach, the virtual gastric band can achieve the same result quickly and privately—without the lengthy delay of hospital waiting lists—and no costly invasive surgery, risks or need for ongoing medical treatment. The program is limited to 30 people with a cost of $149 per person. For more information and to register, visit HypnosisCenterofCT.com, email Ryan@HypnosisCenterofCT.com or call 203-490-4976. Location: Hypnosis Center of Connecticut, 346 Main St South, Woodbury.
Bath Salts | Body Scrub | Skincare Healing Salves | Smudge | Candles Flower Essences Gift Baskets & Kits Available
Heal Yourself Heal Earth
Something for everyone!
Sustainably handcrafted in Easton, CT mindfully & with love.
www.triplegoddessremedies.com triplegoddessremedies triplegoddessremedies
Our Thoughts Become Things
Learn how to create the thoughts, to have the life you want! Empowerment & Inspiration To Create What You Want In Life!
Darlene Alvarez Maddern
Life Coach, Speaker, Teacher, Mentor QSCA Certified Law of Attraction Coach MA, Sociology
1-860-488-2619 |damaddern@gmail.com www.createwithyourthoughts.com Private Coaching |Group Programs | Workshops | Webinars
Salon Offers Organic Way in Greenwich
A
fter 12 years serving the communities of New York’s Westchester County, stylist Patricia Tradito fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening Salon 469 in Greenwich in December. A full-service, unisex hair salon, 469 will appeal to those interested in an ammonia-free professional coloring experience in a spa-like environment. “We value the beauty of our clients, and want each customer to leave our salon completely satisfied and feeling gorgeous,” says owner Tradito. “For coloring, we use a product called Oway Simply Organic. The ingredients come from a farm in Bologna, Italy that hasn't been touched in over 100 years.” Organic Way says it’s the world’s first professional beauty line handcrafted with pure essential oils, biodynamic botanicals and fair trade ingredients. It is a professional line only, not available outside of salons. Tradito had to go through a certification process in Italy, in order to offer the products in her new salon. To make an appointment, visit Salon469.com, email Bookings@Salon469.com or call 203-900-1515. See ad, page 8.
Massage Therapy
The Gift of Relaxation Specializing in: Swedish • Pregnancy • Injury • Infant Trigger Point • CranioSacral Therapy
Robin Ordan, LMT 203-561-8535
www.robinordanlmt.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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newsbriefs The Center for Natural Medicine
Experts in Science-Based Natural Medicine • Women’s Health • Hormonal Imbalance • Abnormal Paps • Thyroid Disorders • Fertility • Insomnia
• Men’s Health • Cancer Support • Colds and Flus • Anxiety and Depression • Autoimmune Disease • Weight Loss
Dr. Ellen Lewis Dr. Andrew Cummins Dr. Mara Davidson Dr. Nadia Noori Tracy Pardo Alexandra Mason, LMT Beverly Lewis 8 Lincoln Street Westport, CT 06880
• Pediatrics • ADD/ADHD • Eczema • Allergies • Asthma • Food Sensitivities
Dr. Ellen Lewis
Medical Director
p 203.916.4600 f 203.916.4601
www.ShalvaClinic.org Info@ShalvaClinic.org
Naturopathic Medicine • Massage Therapy Classes & Workshops
Healing Arts Sanctuary A Feast for the Senses
Stimulate the fire of the mind, cultivate creativity and imagination, and restore the physical and spiritual self.
Crystal Light Therapy s Aromatheraphy s Sound Healing Specialty Massages s Energy Healing s Meditation Facials s Weekend Retreats s Lectures Literary & Interactive Programs A Banquet of opportunities to heal and replenish the physical body and inner self will be at your fingertips; a place to come to stimulate the mind with evening events ranging from talks about health to programs for children and families. Athena Hall is also available to “like minded” people who are part of the alternative and holistic community for rent by the hour, full or half day, or based on a series of weeks for an ongoing class. Visit our Specialty Store for a wide selection of products, original art, and jewelry to awaken the senses, inspire, and soothe.
203-586-1172
346 Main St. S s Woodbury, CT 06798 www.naturalsalthealing.com 12
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Natural Awakenings Continues Growth into Litchfield County
P
ublisher Nicole Miale is excited to announce that Natural Awakenings Fairfield County has expanded to include additional towns in Litchfield County, growing the limited presence the magazine has had in that area for the past few years. To mark this expansion, beginning this issue, the new name for the edition is now Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT. This allows us to distribute magazines and become an integral part of the holistic living communities in New Milford, Kent, Washington, Washington Depot, Bridgewater, Roxbury, Woodbury, Watertown, Bethlehem, Morris, Thomaston, Plymouth, Bantam and New Preston. Natural Awakenings Fairfield County was co-founded in 2004 by Lisa Jacoby and Mary Karnis with Marilee Burrell, who is currently the co-founder and publisher of the Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess, NY edition. In May 2013, Miale began her Natural Awakenings publishing adventure as the new owner of the Fairfield County edition. Since then, the edition has not only greatly increased the number of valuable and actionable local articles and resources, but it has also grown significantly in readership with magazines currently distributed to more than 1,200 locations throughout Fairfield County and southwestern Litchfield County. “We initially began some distribution into southern Litchfield County a few years ago to help meet the needs of our northern Fairfield County advertisers,” Miale says. “Over time, more people asked us to come to their locations and asked how they could get involved in the Natural Awakenings community. We are thrilled to now make that possible for them, serving a vibrant community hungry for the empowering information, education and inspiration we provide in each issue.” The first edition of Natural Awakenings was launched in Florida by CEO Sharon Bruckman in 1994. The company’s franchise owners publish over 90 local editions of the magazine, distributing more than 1.3 million total monthly copies throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information about the Natural Awakenings Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley, CT edition, visit eNaturalAwakenings.com.
natural awakenings
healthbriefs
COMING IN FEBRUARY 2017
OSTEOPATHY TO HEAL THE “BURNT OUT” HEALER
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ost physicians are teachers; certainly many in the holistic health profession give heart-centered time and energy to educate clients and make sure they understand how to better care for themselves. It is often assumed that health practitioners take the time to maintain a more balanced lifestyle in managing stress. However, as healers, we often struggle with maintaining our own balance. The reality is we can suffer burn out from the demands of a busy practice, the administrative burden of running a small business, the tension from different personalities of our staff, and the desire to give each and every client the very best we have to offer. Because practitioners in the health and wellness field have quite a number of people relying on them, time management can be difficult. According to surveys, burn-out and satisfaction with work-life balance in U.S. physicians worsened from 2011 to 2014. More than half of U.S. physicians are now experiencing professional burnout. And each year in the U.S., 300 to 400 physicians die from suicide, mostly stemming from undiagnosed depression. Recognizing that those of us who are physicians and healers give so much of ourselves to each client, it is imperative to acknowledge that we can become depleted over time. We are more vulnerable to everyday stresses and exhaustion, which in turn leaves us less for ourselves and to give others. Then we need to be sure to establish healthy boundaries with clients, friends and family. It is important to become empowered and maintain enough energy to be effective in our work and still feel the joy of helping others. Osteopathy is a gentle, noninvasive system in which we learn how to observe the body’s anatomy and cranio-sacral rhythm with the intent to restore health and balance to the nervous system with cranio-sacral manipulation. When gentle, relaxed, hands-on touch manipulates the bones of the skull, chronic strain patterns can be detected and restored to normal. The body has an inherent ability to heal itself and cranio-sacral treatment does exactly this. Cranial-osteopathy restores balance and health to the whole person—body, mind and spirit. This is important for the healer and the patient. David Johnston, DO, is a board-certified osteopathic physician in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine, and a Diplomate with the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine. He holds additional certifications in cranial osteopathy. He practices at the Osteopathic Wellness Center, located at 158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield. Contact him at OsteopathicWellness.net or 203-4389915. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 67.
2017 Natural
Living Directory Increased Year-round Circulation! Be in the community’s go-to natural health annual reference guide!
LAST YEAR’S EDITION
Natural Awakenings Fairfield County Let our health conscious readers learn about your business all year! Be part of this special annual issue, a complete Natural Living Directory our readers reference all year.
Call to ask for our special combination rates with New Haven/Middlesex NA Final Deadline 1/12/17
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January 2017
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Ayurvedic Program Improves Blood Chemistry
Autism Risk Linked to Banned Chemicals
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Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com
study from Drexel University, in Philadelphia, has linked autism spectrum disorder with prenatal exposure to organochlorine chemicals. The researchers examined 1,144 children born in southern California between 2000 and 2003 with mothers that had enrolled in a state-sponsored prenatal screening program. Blood tests were taken during their second trimester of pregnancy, a critical time for neurodevelopment, to measure exposure to organochlorine chemicals, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and pesticides such as DDT. These compounds were banned from production in the U.S. in 1977, but remain in the environment. It’s well known that they can cross the placental barrier, impacting neurodevelopment in fetuses. The researchers selected participants based on previous health diagnoses: 545 children with autism spectrum disorder and 181 with intellectual disabilities, plus 418 free of both issues as a control group. They found a 50 to 82 percent increased autism risk in children with the highest levels of four identified PCB compounds in utero, based on which ones were present. “The results suggest that prenatal exposure to these chemicals above a certain level may influence neurodevelopment in adverse ways,” says Kristen Lyall, Sc.D., assistant professor in the university’s A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, promising further related studies.
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clinical trial from the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that participants in a six-day, ayurvedicbased, well-being program showed metabolic improvements in blood tests for inflammation, cardiovascular disease risk (CDR) and cholesterol levels. Study participants consisted of 119 healthy men and women between the ages of 30 and 80. Sixty-five experienced a panchakarma program, a detox and rejuvenation protocol involving a vegetarian diet, meditation, yoga, massage, herbal therapy and other healing therapies. The other 54 served as a control group. Blood was analyzed before and after the test period. The researchers, led by Dr. Deepak Chopra, found measurable decreases in 12 phosphatidycholines (cell-membrane chemicals) associated with cholesterol, inflammation, CDR and Type 2 diabetes risk. They acknowledge that due to the short duration of the trial, the immediate changes were likely attributable to the vegetarian diet; more research is needed to determine the complementary role of the other therapies. “It appears that a one-week panchakarma program can significantly alter the metabolic profile of the person undergoing it,” remarks Chopra.
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Celebration Service Sundays at 10:30 am Open Mic Night - Jan 21st at 7 pm Thought Exchange 101 - Sunday’s Jan 8th - 29th at 1:15 pm
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Movie: The Twelve Powers
Celebrating the meaning of the 12 Divine Mind Powers created by Charles Filmore, Co-founder of Unity. Jan 20th at 7pm, Jan 21st at 12:30 & 3pm, Jan 22nd at 4pm Cost: $10
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N E W I N 2 01 7 EMERGING PRACTITIONERS For pracitioners just launching their practice or recently relocated to the area.
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Protecting Pollinators
News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Maryland is the first state in the nation to pass strict restrictions on pesticides thought to be responsible for significant reductions in bee populations with enactment of its Pollinator Protection Act. Maryland lost more than 60 percent of its hives in 2015, each containing up to 20,000 honeybees, making it one of the states with the highest recorded declines. The national average is about 42 percent, yet across the country, farmers and gardeners are still using pesticides linked to colony collapse disorder. Globally, more than one-third of the world’s food supply could be a risk if these and other pollinators are lost. Neonicotinoids are one potent class of systemic pesticides introduced to agriculture in the 1990s that have been linked to bees’ demise. In recent years, pesticides such as Knockout Ready-to-Use Grub Killer, Ortho Bug B Gon, and All-In-One Rose & Flower Care have been made available to consumers and beekeepers have noticed a corresponding increase in bee deaths. The Maryland law bans the use of neonicotinoids by everyday consumers that have been spraying home gardens and trees with these deadly pesticides. Farmers and professional gardeners are exempt from the law. A similar law is awaiting the governor’s signature in Connecticut. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not officially recognized the well-researched link, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing it.
Reforesting India
Massive Tree-Planting Against Climate Change
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Indian officials report that volunteers planted more than 49 million trees on a single day in 2016, surpassing the 2013 world record of 850,000 in Pakistan. An estimated 800,000 volunteers worked for 24 hours planting 80 species of saplings raised in local nurseries along roads, railways and other public land. The effort is part of the commitment India made at the Paris Climate Conference in December 2015. The country agreed to spend $6 billion to reforest 12 percent of its land and bring the total forest cover to 235 million acres by 2030, or about 29 percent of its territory. Trees sequester carbon dioxide from the air and reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. India has experienced substantial loss of its forest cover in recent centuries as people cut down trees for firewood, pasture and development. Still, saplings need water and care and are susceptible to disease. Mortality rates can reach 40 percent after such massive tree plantings. Other countries are also replanting trees. Last December, African nations pledged to reforest 100 million hectares (386 square miles). A wide range of stakeholders from countries to companies also signed on to the non-binding New York Declaration of Forests that month, with the goal of halving deforestation by 2020 and ending it by 2030.
Source: BeyondPesticides.org
Source: National Geographic
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We request the pleasure of your company for this exclusive Goddess You event January 26, 2017 • 7:00 pm Inspirit Healing Studio Jeanne is excited to meet you in person and sign your book!
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ancEnlight’s mission is dedicated to fostering the arts through excellence in dance, education and artistic collaboration in a tapestry of Eastern and Western culture & ideas. Through artistic collaboration, dancEnlight works with local and global artists to create lasting, high quality works of art embraced by audiences around the world. Founded by Lorelei Chang and Mai Nakanishi in 2008, dancEnlight is currently in residence at Connecticut Concert Ballet. dancEnlight is a professional modern dance company that performs under the direction of Lorelei Chang (US) and Mai Nakanishi (Japan). Chang and Nakanishi draw inspiration from their Asian background and create cross-cultural works with inventive ideas. Their idea of combining dance and the ancient art form of Chinese calligraphy has uniquely set the company apart from others. To Chang, dancing is beyond physical and mental challenges and enjoyment; it is ENLIGHTENMENT. It is with this spiritual inspiration that the company was formed. On January 28 from 5-7 pm, in celebration of the first day of Chinese New Year, Chang and dancEnlight will perform in Washington Depot, sponsored by Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2017 is the year of Yin Fire Rooster starting January 28, 2017 (called the Lunar Chinese New Year or Chinese Spring Festival) and ending February 15, 2018. For more information about dancEnlight, visit dancEnlight.org. For more information about the event on January 28 in Washington Depot, contact Valley Spirit Cooperative, 860-619-2788 or visit ValleySpiritCoop.com.
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1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT Mindbodytransformation.com 203-595-0110
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Mastering Yoga
The yoga community in Fairfield County and the Housatonic Valley has never been more vibrant! This section provides connections to studios and teachers in the area, as well as helpful editorial to support your efforts to improve your practice.
yogabrief Workshops to Inspire Your Yoga Teaching Healing The Mind, Body & Spirit with: • Yoga • Barre
Pilates • Zumba Flow • Core Strength • TRX Training • Meditation
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Call for more info. 203-885-4674
T
he Yoga Teachers Association (YTA) of the Hudson Valley’s next workshop, Connecting to Source Through Meditation, Mantra, and Sound, will be presented by Jeff Migdow on January 21 from 1:30 to 4:30pm. Join to experience various yogic practices, such as postures, pranayama, mantra and sound vibration, and much more. Ways to integrate these yogic practices and deep benefits into daily life and yoga teaching will be discussed. A former director of Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training, Jeff Migdow, MD, is an Usui Reiki master who has explored yoga, health and consciousness since 1969 in India, Nepal, Japan, Brazil, Colombia and Peru. He currently develops and directs Prana Yoga teacher trainings in New York City. On February 11 from 1:30 to 4:30pm, the association will offer LifeForce Yoga to Manage the Mood with Deborah Lubetkin at Club Fit in Briarcliff Manor, New York. Based on the work of Amy Weintraub and her books, Yoga for Depression and Yoga Skills for Mental Health Professionals, LifeForce Yoga helps us to meet the mood on the mat and to release what is no longer serving us. Deborah E. Lubetkin, PsyD,
LFYP-2, RYT-200, the mentoring director at LifeForce Yoga Healing Institute, is also a licensed psychologist. She will introduce the theory and practice of LifeForce Yoga. Lubetkin will share practices for managing anxiety, depression and trauma that are appropriate for home practice, yoga classes and yoga therapy, as well as for clinical mental health and medical settings. This will be an interactive, experiential workshop. Participants will be guided through a practice on the mat that integrates the key elements of a LifeForce Yoga class, including bhavana, pranayama, asana, bija mantras, mudras, meditation and yoga nidra. The cost for each workshop is $45 for YTA members and $65 for non-members who register in advance ($55 and $75, respectively, at the door). Preregistration is requested at YTAYoga.com. Ample parking is available. Bring a yoga mat and arrive early to check in and set up. For more information, visit YTAYoga.com, or contact Audrey Brooks at YTAPresident@gmail.com or 914-5827816. Location: Yoga Studio at Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
Ayurveda s Meditation sTeacher Training
New Student Special 30 days Unlimited Practice $59 Guided and Mysore-style classes offered daily. All levels welcome. Join our compassionate community! 49 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield, CT 203-544-8811 www.theyogashalact.com 18
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wisewords
sclerosis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and Parkinson’s, because all of them have an autoimmune component if they are not directly autoimmune diseases. Similarly, the ketogenic diet is now being studied as a treatment for cancers, especially brain tumors, brain injuries, autism, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Intravenous alpha lipoic acid is also used to address autoimmune diseases, some cancers and other conditions.
Julia Schopick on Effective, Affordable Medicine by Randy Kambic
What are some of the most significant natural alternatives you report on in Honest Medicine? The ketogenic diet is one standout because it was the standard of care for children with epilepsy in the 1920s—until pharmaceutical companies began to produce lucrative anti-seizure medications; then its use
diminished through a lack of proponents in the medical field. Its use was revived in the 1990s due to the efforts of Jim Abrahams, a Hollywood writer/director, father of a child with epilepsy and one of my heroes. I found small studies that proved that the ketogenic diet successfully stops children’s seizures nearly 70 percent of the time. This highly effective alternative has none of the negative side effects of antiseizure drugs. Most doctors aren’t in favor of the diet approach and instead often prescribe affected children up to three or four meds as an easier option. The diet follows Hippocrates’ dictum, “Let food be thy medicine.” Another standout is intravenous alpha lipoic acid, pioneered since the 1970s by Dr. Burt Berkson, who used it mainly for end-stage liver disease and diabetic neuropathy. He saved many people from needing liver transplants with infusions of this powerful, versatile antioxidant. photo by Keith Peterson
F
ollowing up on the success of her bestselling book Honest Medicine: Effective, Time-Tested, Inexpensive Treatments for LifeThreatening Diseases, Julia Schopick plans to spread awareness of the efficacy of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) in treating autoimmune and other ailments later this year with a new book co-authored with professional writer Don Schwartz. Her first book, endorsed by many leading integrative health practitioners, earned the top National Indie Excellence Award for Alternative Medicine. It taps into nearly 200 scientific studies, with her research into innovative treatments driven by a quest that she and her late husband both believed added 15 years to his life after a terminal prognosis at age 40. The former English teacher at Long Island University and Virginia State University, now an Oak Park, Illinois resident, has contributed to the American Medical Association publication AM News, writes online and print guest columns and shares her journey in media interviews.
Did anything surprise you? I chose to include effective treatments that are non-toxic and inexpensive. I didn’t realize that several of them were effective for many different conditions. For example, LDN has been used since the mid-1980s to treat autoimmune diseases, of which there are more than 100; it also treats some cancers and AIDS. Research shows good results for conditions as varied as multiple
Are you finding that people are increasingly moving away from drugs and, if so, why? Yes. The norm used to be that patients followed their doctors’ orders without question, which routinely entailed prescription drugs. Today, people are realizing that drugs often come with horrendous side effects. Consider, for instance, that ads for some injectible treatments for autoimmune diseases caution against side effects of cancers, including lymphomas. A side effect of some multiple sclerosis drugs is a serious brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, or PML. People are listening closely, reading and researching their health issues, and don’t want risky side effects, especially when safer options are available.
In dealing with chronic illnesses, how crucial is it for caregiver and patient to maintain a positive, optimistic attitude? Multiple studies, like those referenced in Mind Over Medicine, by Dr. Lissa Rankin, and Radical Remission, by Kelly Turner, Ph.D., show that a positive state of mind is crucial to healing. One of the benefits I report in my book is that patients and caregivers will do even more research looking for alternatives when doctors tell them nothing else can be done. And many find healing treatments; there are many such cases reported in my book. I like the African proverb, “When you pray, move your feet.” Randy Kambic is a freelance writer and editor in Estero, FL, and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine.
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January 2017
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Updating the Physician’s Bag Providers Grapple with Old Tools, New Needs
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by Yufang Lin
s health care about the care of health or the treatment of disease? If we take the words literally, health care should be about the care of one’s health to maintain health and wellness. However, in today’s medical system, health care is dominated by treatment of chronic diseases with ever-increasing costs to the people involved. The United States spends the most in medical costs at $9,990 per person in 2015, or 17.7 cents per dollar spent; yet our country ranked 37th in health in a World Health Organization survey. Compared to 10 other developed countries, the U. S. came in last as reported in 2014 by the Commonwealth Fund. The primary reason for this disconnect is that the majority of chronic medical problems in our society stem from lifestyle issues, including nutrition, exercise, stress management, and habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol. However, these issues are rarely discussed in depth in a medical office encounter. Allopathic medical schools focus on anatomy, physiology, diseases and pharmaceuticals, but spend very little time, if any, on nutrition and stress 20
management. While protein, carbohydrates and fats may be discussed, the quality of nutrients is not discussed in depth. While they learn that stress kills, medical students are not also taught tools to help themselves or patients. This trend can continue into residencies, where doctors learn how to prescribe parental nutrition—nutrition through intravenous lines—but still have to refer patients to a nutritionist for nutritional advice about common ailments such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Despite realizing the importance of lifestyle management, most physicians become increasingly adept at diagnosing diseases and prescribing drugs while still having little knowledge about how to prevent or alleviate illness via lifestyle management. For healthcare providers, this can be frustrating. Physicians care about patients and want to help them heal, but are not given enough tools in their medical “toolkit” when they emerge from medical school. In addition, the healthcare system has changed in ways that further reduce the time doctors spend with patients, along with ever-in-
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
creasing restrictions from non-medical entities such as insurance companies and corporate overseers. But there are a growing number of doctors who agree that our medical system needs a drastic overhaul. In the 1980s, Dr. Jeffrey Bland and Dr. Andrew Weil independently started movements to look at health in a more holistic, integrative and functional manner. The basic premise of their approaches is that, in order to heal a person, we have to look at individuals as a whole, not just a sum of their diseases. We need to find the root cause of illness and address each imbalance with personalized plans. The “whole person” evaluation starts with a full health history—prenatally to the present—genetic disposition, environmental exposure, and diet and exercise patterns. Since the practitioner also understands that emotion plays a huge role in our health, they look at critical life events, have they been joyful or traumatic. In addition, the physician examines how we cope with stress. Do we tend to sweat it out with exercise; talk it over with friends; or bury it with food, cigarettes and/or alcohol? Consider a hypothetical example. Let’s say “Joe” has high blood pressure and he smokes. He knows he should quit smoking. He may even have had transient success, but something always seems to triggers him to smoke again. If smoking is his way of coping with stress—and he hasn’t found another way to cope—a stressful event will most likely push him to fall back to what worked in the past. He may replace it with another habit, such as food or alcohol. In this scenario, the root problem (stress) of his disease (hypertension) has not been addressed, and the symptom was only controlled by the medicine. The likely consequence is that the hypertension will continue or progress, requiring more and more medication with time; Joe may continue to smoke off and on—and/or put on weight because he ate instead—and whatever pushes his button and creates his stress will continue to do so. How would a “wholistic” healthcare provider look at this example differently? We may start with Joe’s diet. How much salt is in his diet? Does he have enough potassium and magne-
sium? How much plant-based nutrition does he get daily? We may examine Joe’s sleep patterns as sleep deprivation increases blood pressure, blood sugar and stress hormone levels. What healthy stress management skills does he have now? The healthcare provider might then work on broadening that skillset. What kind of genetic predisposition exists for this condition? We may consider supplements and herbs to support him in this process. At the end of the day, Joe may still need some medication to help control his blood pressure, but it may be less in number and in dosage. The added benefit may be that he learns to deal with stress better, and may have been able to finally stop smoking altogether. This type of healthcare approach is not a passive process, but rather a team approach. A doctor acts as teacher and coach to guide us in this healing journey, but only if an individual can make the necessary changes. This may not be as easy as “a pill for every ill”, but every positive step gets us closer to an authentic health and wellness that we deserve. Connect with Yufang Lin, MD, at WCMG IntegrativeMedicine.Org or 203-920-1603. See Community Resource Guide listing, page XX.
RESOURCES
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Upcoming workshops and events: Jan. 6th 5-9pm ( FREE )
First Fridays in Washington Art Opening featuring the prints and paintings of Nancy Lasar & Photographs of Kristin Flagg. Music, Food & Drink, Dancing. Jan. 20th-22nd ( $275 / early reg $250 )
Microcosmic Orbit Meditation w/ Jampa Stewart Jan. 22th-Mar 26th Sundays 10-11:30am ( $250 / early reg $225 )
Tibetan Yogic Exercise & Meditation w/ Alex Boianghu Jan. 28th 5-7pm ( check website for details, pricing & location )
Lorelei Chang & dancEnlight of Hartford, a Chinese New Year Celebration
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hen we are ready to reach out, there are resources to find doctors who can help us as whole beings. Start with the ads, articles and Community Resource Guide listings in Natural Awakenings. Widen your search beyond your local area. Look online at the following organizations that either train or certify integrative, functional medicine physicians, including Institute of Functional Medicine (Functionalmedicine.org), American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine (ABIHM.org/ Search-Doctors) and University of Arizona Center of Integrative Medicine (IntegrativeMedicine.Arizona. edu/Alumni.html). eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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necessary with various medical ailments, many patients want to rely less on medications if and where possible, Hoffman adds. Some patients may also tend to seek out alternatives in frustration because Western medicine either failed them, or at least did not treat their illnesses but instead just masked the symptoms for a period of time. “I don’t agree with this [Western medical] system—basically it’s a very dysfunctional system,” says Dr. Tatiana Fleischman. She just opened a clinic in Stamford, but received her initial medical training in Russia, her homeland. “Many times, doctors are spending just minutes with patients during appointments. The advances of science and especially pharmacology have shifted many doctor-patient interactions, to drive-through medicine where the doctors only have enough time to quickly evaluate symptoms and prescribe a pill that is supposed to quickly make them go away. This has become dissatisfying for patients and doctors. Integrative medicine offers an alternative. Being a doctor in the integrative paradigm means to me: being a healer, a patient advocate and a guide to better health and true wellness.” Fleischman does not consider herself anti-Western medicine, but instead believes some problems can be healed more naturally and without medication. In Russia, she worked as a physician in an area called Novokuznetsk, near mountains nicknamed the “Siberian Switzerland” on the border of Mongolia. She noticed that the indigenous peoples living there, called Shors and Altay, were more attuned to the healing powers of the natural environment, such as a healthy diet without processed foods. “Their lifestyles and diets were healthier than those of the residents of polluted urban centers nearby,” Fleischman recalls. “I think that experience kept me open-minded toward different healing practices despite me formally receiving conventional medical education and training.”
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TIME & MONEY IMPLICATIONS
Redefining Medical Care
How the Changing Health Care Paradigm Helps Patients by Angela Pascopella
I
t’s a new year with a new president and the potential for a new health care system for the nation. These days conventional mainstream medicine is mainly driven by what health care insurance companies will cover or not in terms of dollars and cents; but the changing system may be good news for patients. While conventionally trained doctors still may resist the healing potential of other modalities that don’t conform to Western medicine norms in the same way as medication and surgery, a slowly increasing number of physicians are opening up to the fact that more patients are seeking and are increasingly
knowledgeable about other solutions. And this integrative paradigm is a winwin for patients and physicians. “Much of the public wants a more integrative approach, such as talking about diet and nutrition, should I take this supplement, and how I canI reduce my reliance on drugs and medication?,” says Kenneth Hoffman, medical director at Brookfield’s Sophia Natural Health Center, who has studied Asian therapies and Western medicine. “Many more conventional doctors are now able to counsel patients on integrative therapies.” Although medication and surgery certainly have their place and may be
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In health care, as in any industry, markers of efficiency and productivity are frequently factored into decision-
making at the macro level. Health care spending is expected to reach $4.3 trillion in 2017, according to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reports. Non-conventional physicians, such as Fleischman, agree the Western medical system is overbooked with less time for patients during appointments. Sometimes, they spend more time looking at a computer or reviewing a patient’s medical history, instead of really listening to the patient’s needs or ills that day. It’s very important in a patient’s healing process to give them attention and empathy, Fleischman explains. But health insurance drives much of what patients can and can’t do when it comes to solutions. And that presents a challenge for people who would prefer an integrative approach because insurance companies haven’t yet caught up with the value of providing integrative care for their clients. Hoffman illustrates the point with the case of a patient who was pre-diabetic but his insurance company wouldn’t cover nutritional counseling to help him from becoming diabetic. Only when he was diabetic, would insurance cover nutritional counseling. “It’s backward,” Hoffman says. Dr. Tamara Sachs of New Milford uses functional medicine in her practice. Functional medicine is a growing sub-specialty for conventional physicians interested in taking a different approach. Like naturopathy, functional medicine prevents and treats chronic illness by seeking to address the underlying root causes rather than the symptoms. She explains that U.S. health insurance companies don’t include the word “inflammation” as a code that would be covered in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). The classification is the standard diagnostic tool that doctors use to state what is wrong with a patient and how insurance companies should pay for it. “They still don’t have a code for systemic inflammation, which is the underlying cause of every disease we have. And I can’t be reimbursed for it. …They are completely out of touch with what we do. Functional medicine cannot [and should not] become just the medicine of the rich.”
BEYOND MEDICATION Dr. Vicki Blumberg, an internist and primary care doctor in Ridgefield, spends up to an hour with each patient during an office visit. She now treats several patients with autoimmune and chronic infectious diseases, which she says are likely an overreaction of the immune system. These patients often come to her after undergoing multiple courses of antibiotics that did not work. “One patient with Lyme disease was almost intermittently bedridden for a year and a half,” Blumberg recalls. She started treating him with low-dose immunotherapy, or LDI, first discovered in England in the 1960s and then brought to the U.S. in the 1990s. Her patient was nearly cured. “He’s nearly symptom-free aside from needing a dose or two at a higher amount,” she says. “He isn’t seeking Western medicine for his chronic Lyme anymore.” It can take time to feel better using a non-conventional approach. Blumberg suggests to her patients to give it a year to see if it’s really working, which she finds is necessary, especially for eczema and allergies. Patients who want more than medication and surgery treatment plans are also visiting chiropractors with advanced training, such as Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care’s Dr. Mark Joachim in Norwalk. “They are not going to the MD as their first source for treatment because they know it would eventually mean medication,” Joachim says. “They want to use medication as a last resort.” Some patients are in a gray area in terms of conventional measures, where they are not feeling well because of nutrition or because of back pain. They haven’t responded to medication or physical therapy, yet they are not bad enough for surgery. “That’s where we can come in and can restore normal joint function and teach them stretches,” Joachim says. “Let’s take headaches,” he gives as an example. “Some people will live on Advil every day because it gets rid of the head pain. But what is causing the head pain? You can have misalignment in the neck, which is irritating the nerve that wraps around the skull; that also causes the muscles of the neck and
Choosing a Physician: Conventional or Integrative
T
o find the best conventional doctors, some integrative physicians suggest patients should call the local hospital. Talk to the head nurse in the intensive care unit or emergency room. “They are a great resource for the best physicians—how they work under stress and their own medical styles,” Blumberg says. Fleischman says a doctor should be caring, knowledgeable, easy to talk to and affordable. “An integrative doctor is essentially a primary care physician but with an expanded bag of tools and options whose role is to get to know the patient very well and guide him or her to wellness,” she explains. Most allopathic physicians don’t know about LDI, according to Blumberg, but social media and the internet have made it easier for physicians of all kinds to connect and educate each other, raising the bar for all. For example, pioneer physicians Drs. W.A. Shrader and Ty R. Vincent are making themselves more available via social media—including on Facebook—to patients and other physicians. Doctors are using YouTube videos to help patients who don’t have the time or access to get to a doctor’s office miles away or in another state. “They want to teach each other,” says Blumberg. “We want to share experiences.” Sachs recommends people look at testimonials online and consider the reputation of the doctor’s medical school. “Honestly, there are some very talented healers out there. People should assemble a team of people to help them. A red flag is a practitioner who is exclusionary… a good healer is always respectful and can communicate with you.”
eNaturalAwakenings.com
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shoulders to tense up. You have joints in your spine and if those joints aren’t lining up properly and moving the way they should, over time it can irritate the nerves and cause pain. Or people could get headaches from not eating properly.”
COLLABORATIVE MEDICAL CARE But medical doctors’ gap in knowledge about alternative therapies still creates a hole and challenge for patients. Joachim says many conventional doctors still don’t know what integrative physicians do and that can create a mutual antagonism. An ideal situation would be a partnership where primary care doctors and other conventionally trained physicians would refer patients who suffer from various chronic conditions—such as hypertension, gastrointestinal issues and tick-borne illnesses—to non-traditional physicians to find a solution. “In an ideal world, we would work together in a symbiotic relationship as equals,” Hoffman muses. “A patient would not need a referral, and a patient can see me as a first line of any health
“Integrative medicine offers an alternative. Being a doctor in the integrative paradigm means to me: being a healer, a patient advocate and a guide to better health and true wellness.” ~Dr. Tatiana Fleischman problem. If a patient needs medication or needs to have further evaluation from a specialist—such as to treat cancer—we can happily refer them to our conventional colleagues to consider a disease consult. I’d work together with them and we’d have an open dialogue to evaluate and treat the patient.” Joachim adds that prevention is key as patients might think they are healthy when they don’t have symptoms. “What we have now is sickness care,” he says. “We encourage people
to be more proactive to take care of themselves, and hopefully not end up with a disease or chronic issue.” Priding herself on being a teacher, Sachs teaches patients how their own body works and how to navigate the sometimes “crazy” medical system. “It’s my job to find that line where this is not healable by just herbs and resting, and that’s when you might need medication or even need the hospital,” she adds. Over time, Sachs says, the system will change because patients will demand the more natural and integrative approach to medicine. “It will take a patient revolt. It will be driven by patients who will consistently demand more information about supplements, and more information about nutrition, and about what other options they have. That’s what’s happening now. I’d like to see functional medicine be called good medicine. That’s what it is.” Angela Pascopella is a 26-year journalism veteran and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. She resides in Fairfield County and is the editor of a national, monthly trade publication.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
Doctoring st in the 21 Century Lifestyle Medicine Focus Prevents Chronic Illness by Kurt Waples
I
t is an unpleasant reality that the “doctor of the 21st century” is dealing with issues for which many are unprepared. Today’s medicine has become mostly the management of chronic disease, in which lifestyle plays up to 95 percent of the causative role. Yet in medical school most doctors are taught how to manage acute situations, not lifestyle-induced chronic disease states that are presenting in their offices. This can be clearly seen with objective outcome measures: diabetes is out of control; obesity and weight-related problems plague upwards of 66 percent of the population; heart disease and strokes are rampant; and if one of those issues doesn’t get us, it is likely cancer will. If modern-day doctors’ treatment protocols do not include proactively addressing lifestyle factors, they are greatly missing the point. To fight 21st century diseases, we must plan ahead. It may take years and sometimes decades for something to show up as a diagnosable disease; however, it is much easier to catch something early if doctors know what to look for. There are four basic lifestyle issues every doctor should test or ask about at every visit (unless the patient doesn’t smoke). Smoking: Smoking is still one of the top killers in the U.S. Around half of the people who smoke will die from it. However, it is still unknown how many people who smoke will die from another problem caused by their smoking, whether directly or indirectly. Exercise: Exercising in some way every day is key; it doesn’t have to be a CrossFit workout to be effective. A doctor needs to ask and record what we are doing. Everyone needs to do something daily, whether it is weight training,
stretching, walking for 20 minutes after a meal, yoga or another form of exercise. Lean Body Composition: This is more multi-factorial. In the past, being lean was enough. Nowadays, we have a phenomenon called “skinny fat”, which is major hormonal imbalance and deficient muscle in relation to our frame mass. This is something that can be measured and quantified. This is in addition to the 66 percent of the population that is overweight or obese. Obesity, excess fat and hormonal imbalances contribute to almost all disease processes. Diet: Diet has to be addressed; the standard American diet is pro-inflammatory. Inflammation is the underlying cause of many chronic conditions, if not all of them. The 21st-century doctor needs to be able to read through all the diet research and guide people to a healthy lifestyle. For some people, this will be a more ketogenic diet while other patients need a more Paleo or plant-based diet. There are a number of ways to address these areas with each individual patient. Labs and detailed physical assessment are a great starting point for developing an effective and preventive lifestyle protocol each individual can live with. To deal with the escalating numbers of chronically ill people in our society, it should be incumbent upon all doctors to become proficient in these four categories. Kurt Waples, owner of Bluestone Health Group in Stamford, is a chiropractor who uses applied kinesiology and clinical or functional nutrition. Connect at BluestoneHealthGroup.com or 203220-6488.
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physicianprofiles Shalva Clinic
SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine
Mara Davidson, ND, MS, MBA 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 DrDavidson@ShalvaClinic.org ShalvaClinic.org/DrMaraDavidson Facebook.com/DrMaraDavidson
501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 Info@SlowMedicine.org SlowMedicine.org
Practice Summary: I see patients of all ages for acute, sick visits as well as chronic conditions. I focus part of my practice on anxiety, depression, anti-aging, neurodegenerative diseases and adjunctive cancer care. What led you to become a physician? While in film school, I had an interest in medicine. Halfway through the program, I began volunteering at a local hospital and took pre-medical coursework. My love of medicine grew and deepened from there. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? Since beginning in practice, there is a true deepening and ever-growing appreciation of the combination of medicine as both a science and an art. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? Along with my doctor of naturopathic medicine degree, I also obtained my master of science in human nutrition and have a master of business administration in health care management. What should a patient expect from working with you? A thorough and in-depth visit as well as personalized health and lifestyle recommendations specifically tailored to each patient. There is no “cookie cutter” approach to naturopathic medicine. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? There are many exciting things coming in this new year! I am working on developing a podcast, giving talks throughout Fairfield County, and fully launching a diabetes educational monthly series at Shalva Clinic.
SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine, a center for integrative medicine and wellness, is owned by life partners Robin Queen Finkelstein and Dr. Michael Finkelstein. It houses their private consultative practices and holds workshops, special events and talks. The center is dedicated to teaching people about holistic living as a lifestyle, and nurturing their health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Services offered: Integrative medicine, counseling for individuals and couples, family lifestyle counseling, cooking workshops and classes, financial abundance coaching, astrology readings and coaching, Jungian-oriented dream work, Garden Co-Op CSA, addiction counseling (12-step support), community building, grief counseling, trauma healing, yoga and other movement classes. Areas of specialty: Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, cancer, heart and gastrointestinal disorders, anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, PTSD, chronic fatigue, migraines and neurological conditions, infertility, nutrition, addiction. Philosophical approach: Dr. Michael Finkelstein founded Slow Medicine and its philosophy, which teaches us that in this fast-paced world which promotes a constant “fight or flight” reaction, we must learn to slow down and rebalance, connecting with ourselves, nature and other people. “The Slow Medicine principles of Reflect, Honor and Love teach us how to live in the present instead of reacting to the past, how to own feelings instead of projecting them, how to attain a healthy balance between I and we, and how to communicate lovingly,” he says.
The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them. ~Ernest Hemingway 26
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
Associates In Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, P.C. Dr. Risa Sloves & Dr. Mark Joachim 156 East Ave, Norwalk • 203-838-1555 CTChiropractic.com • CTSpinalPainCenter.com, AllergyEliminationNorwalk.com • KeyEssentialNutrients.com RSMJChiro@sbcglobal.net Practice Summary: Dr. Risa Sloves and Dr. Mark Joachim are a husband and wife team offering natural chiropractic and wellness care for over 25 years. Sloves is one of only nine chiropractic physicians in Connecticut who is board certified in pediatric and maternity care, including certifications in the Webster and Bagnell breech techniques and in scoliosis care. Joachim is the only physician in the state with advanced certification in The BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique, a non-invasive, drug-free and shot-free health care method to eliminate food and environmental allergies. They also offer non-surgical spinal decompression, acupuncture and nutrition. Dr. Joachim is the developer of the Key Essential Nutrient line. What drew you to health and wellness as a profession? Since childhood, we have both been interested in health, wellness, nutrition and competitive athletics. What we can provide with chiropractic care and the other services that we are experts in is really basic anatomy and allowing the body to function optimally and healthier! Areas of specialty: We offer chiropractic care for all ages and abilities; specialized care for pre- and post-natal and pediatrics; cranial sacral therapy; newborn/infant feeding issues pertaining to lip tie/tongue tie/cheek tie; BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique; spinal decompression with Axiom DRX 9000; acupuncture with and without needles; nutrition and enzyme therapy; and functional medicine.
145 Grassy Plain St. Bethel, CT
Soul Focus Mela Rispoli 203-570-3868 mrispoli2@aol.com
S&SF NaturalAwakenings_Jan2016_3.5x2_Layout 1 12/17/15 3:52 PM Page
Moss Mountain at
STICKS & STONES FARM A family farm hosting healing, educational, and musical events for the community.
sticksandstonesfarm.com or call 203 270 8820
How has your practice evolved and/or what changes do you have planned for 2017? We have been fortunate over the past 24 years to build strong relationships not only with our patients, but also with other health care providers in Connecticut. One of our goals for 2017 is to continue to strengthen and bridge the gap between traditional medical approaches and natural, alternative health care.
Family and Child Psychotherapy
What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about you and your work? Now more than ever before, parents are searching for proactive lifestyle habits that will nurture their children’s health. Chiropractic awareness is shifting from being an intervention not only for pain relief, but for a more proactive, wellness-oriented healthcare choice.
Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535
Support and Guidance • Divorce Anxiety • Parent/Child Conflict Attachment and Bonding • Trauma • Grief Professional/Executive Coaching www.robinordanlcsw.com Located on the Old Greenwich/Stamford Border eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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physicianprofiles Shalva Clinic
Debra Gibson, ND
Ellen Lewis, ND 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 Info@Shalvaclinic.org Shalvaclinic.org
100 Danbury Rd, Ste 102, Ridgefield 203-431-4443 DrGibsonsOffice@sbcglobal.net DebraGibsonND.com
Practice summary: I’m a licensed naturopathic physician and medical director at Shalva Clinic, offering natural, comprehensive family health care and diagnostics. I also serve as academic faculty at the University of Bridgeport. What led you to become a physician: I began as an athletic trainer, where I realized human potential was firmly connected to health care and lifestyle. I earned a doctorate in naturopathic medicine to foster proactive health. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? I see more clearly that naturopathic physicians are truly the first functional medicine doctors. We heal by looking for the root cause of illness, never content to just treat symptoms. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? I’ve completed a two-year mentorship in integrative women’s health, offering natural treatment for cervical dysplasia and HPV, in addition to an apprenticeship in midwifery and pediatrics, and biotherapeutic drainage. What should a patient expect from working with you? I use both conventional and natural modalities with sciencebased diagnostics, treating patients with nutrition, botanical medicine and lifestyle counseling for care that may be the most personal ever experienced. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? More health-based education for our patients, including a focus on women’s health issues, rheumatology and pain management, and support for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Practice Summary: A naturopathic physician for over 25 years, I educate and motivate people to transform unhealthy behaviors and limiting attitudes and move from illness and imbalance to well-being and vitality. I have a “functional” perspective: how does a very healthy person function and how can that higher level of wellness be created? I combine thorough and insightful assessment with nutrition, herbal medicines, homeopathy and lifestyle change to safely promote healing. What led you to become a physician? I have always enjoyed participating with people in rediscovering the “joy of life,” well-being and wholeness that I believe is our most natural state. Areas of specialty: Allergy and food intolerance, overweight/unhealthy body composition, healthy and positive aging, gastrointestinal disorders, fatigue, sleep issues, autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? As an experienced provider of Therapeutic Lifestyle Change, in the coming year I look forward to coaching more people toward health, well-being and real prevention of chronic degenerative disease using this effective program. What should a patient expect from working with you? Finding the causes for illness, rather than merely treating symptoms, using natural methods that work in harmony with the body and encouraging the powerful wisdom of the body, mind and spirit—these principles guide my approach to healing and empower people to take charge of their health and live their best lives.
natural awakenings
Marvin P. Schweitzer, ND
Whole-Body Medicine
Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 Info@DrMarvinSchweitzer.com DrMarvinSchweitzer.com
Adam Breiner, ND Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 Info@WholeBodyMed.com • WholeBodyMed.com
Practice Summary: We have over 30 years of family practice experience with cutting-edge, highly individualized approaches to help unleash your body’s healing power. During each office visit, we work on nourishing, balancing, repairing and cleansing your body, as well as working on stress and epigenetics. Wellness services offered: Electrodermal screening, homeopathy, Brainpaint EEG Biofeedback, Ondamed PEMF Therapy, nutrition programs, energy medicine, botanicals, oxygen therapies. Areas of specialty: Allergies, anti-aging, arthritis, candida, cholesterol, digestive health, environmental sensitivities, fatigue, headaches, heavy metal detox, hormone/menopause support, Lyme disease, non-drug ADD/ADHD alternatives, stress, weight optimization. Philosophy of healing: We are enthusiastically committed to doing what it takes to help you get well by addressing underlying causes. We take the necessary time, make the necessary effort, and have experience, expertise and amazing technology. When you share this commitment and desire to be a partner in this quest for wellness, outcomes are greatly improved.
Practice Summary: We offer an individualized, integrative, holistic approach for treating a range of conditions. Our naturopathic physicians—Drs. Adam Breiner, David Brady and Elena Sokolova—each bring Adam Breiner, Elena Sokolova, a unique set of skills for diagnosing and treating their David Brady patients. Our health center also has available holistic dentistry and chiropractic care. Wellness services offered: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), EEG neurofeedback, Chinese medicine, homeopathy, energy medicine, electrodermal screening, colon hydrotherapy, detoxification, allergy desensitization, healthy aging. Areas of specialty: Lyme disease, female concerns, thyroid and adrenal issues, brain trauma, ADD/ADHD, gastrointestinal concerns, healthy aging, immune disorders, toxicities, sports injuries. Philosophy of healing: As naturopathic physicians, we seek to remove the obstacles to a cure. We combine state-of-the-art science with centuries-old healing modalities to correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself.
Hunter Healing Hands
Integrative & Intuitive Shamanic Wellness Jessica Hunter
Integrative & Intuitive Healing Sessions
Quality Holistic Healing Education that is Personal, Professional, and Passionate!
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Drum & Rattle Making Sessions
Shamanic Teacher, Practitioner, Shamanic Medium, Crystal Healing Teacher, Melody Certified Crystal Healing Practitioner, Reiki Master, OM, Circle of the Sacred Earth
Shamanic Healing, Shamanic Mediumship, Melody Crystal Healing, Acupressure, Reiki, Shamanic Spiritual Counseling
Legal Sacred Ceremonies
203-916-8381 | www. hunterhealinghands. com | hunterhealinghands@hotmail. com eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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physicianprofiles Natural Health and Wellness Center
Dr. Michael E. Doyle, MD Stamford Integrative Medicine 22 Fifth St, Ste 201, Stamford 203-324-4747 MEDoyleMD@optonline.net StamfordIntegrativeMedicine.com
Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, #2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com Practice Summary: We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. We specialize in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. What led you to become a physician? A strong interest in science and 10 years of experience in the field of medical research, combined with some personal health challenges, led me to explore many questions about health, healing and wellness. Areas of specialty: Acute and chronic illnesses, preventive health and healthy lifestyle practices to support optimal health, adrenal, thyroid, women’s health, diabetes, insomnia, stress-related illnesses, infertility. weight loss difficulties, digestive disorders, pain management, chronic fatigue, allergies, asthma, eczema, acupuncture, and more. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? People are busy and stressed. We try to understand what is really going on in their lives and provide solutions that address their health concerns and fit in with the other aspects of their life, schedule, work and family.
Practice Summary: Dr. Michael Doyle says his practice goes above and beyond simply treating symptoms and numbers. “My goal is to identify and treat the root causes of illness by focusing on nutrition, hormones and lifestyle,” he says, noting that undetected nutritional and hormonal disturbances, in particular, are at the root of many common illnesses. “By focusing on these core issues, I have helped many patients dramatically improve their health and quality of life.” Wellness services offered: Conventional and alternative medicine, including bio-identical hormones, nutritional and herbal therapies, IV nutrients and more. Areas of specialty: Thyroid and adrenal problems, fatigue, depression, anxiety, insomnia, weight gain, allergies, menopause and female hormone deficiencies, male hormone deficiencies, fibromyalgia, digestive problems, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, much more. Philosophy of healing: Listening carefully and focusing on natural solutions are crucial steps in finding the safest and most effective ways to help our patients improve their health.
What should a patient expect from working with you? We provide a caring, compassionate environment where we take the time to really listen to our patients concerns and offer safe, effective solutions and comprehensive healthcare to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for the body, mind and spirit.
NA Fun Fact: Natural Awakenings is published in 96 U.S. markets, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. To advertise with us, call 203-885-4674. 30
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
Heather Ehinger, EdD, LMFT
Shalva Clinic
1071 Post Rd East, Ste 201, Westport 25 West 45th St, Ste 401, New York, NY 203-438-3139 HeatherEhinger@gmail.com HeatherEhinger.com
Andrew Cummins, ND 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org ShalvaClinic.org/Andrew-Cummins-ND
Practice Summary: I am a marriage and family therapist. I work with couples and families dealing with divorce, trauma, illness, life changes, addictions, sexual identity issues and teens with actingout behaviors. My method is a systemic solution-focused approach. What first drew you to this profession: My high school psychology class was my “ah ha” moment. I realized the only thing that matters is relationships! The more I learn, the more I realized I had to become an expert in helping others build and sustain strong and meaningful relationships. How your work is different from that of others in your profession: I am a systemic family therapist. You must realize you are part of an all-encompassing and dynamic system. We will develop tools to improve your family systems outcome.
Practice Summary: Naturopathic physician. A few of my areas of specialty and focus are autoimmune disease, digestive conditions, chronic pain, ankylosing spondylitis, chronic fatigue, low-back pain and athletic performance. What led you to become a physician? After almost 10 years living with chronic pain, chronic fatigue, digestive problems, insomnia, severe back pain, ankylosing spondylitis—and seven years dependent on painkillers—I was told no more could be done for me. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? Definitely. I now see the effectiveness of functional lab testing in discovering the underlying cause behind a patient’s symptoms and guiding individualized treatment. This has led to powerful results!
What should a client or patient expect from working with you: I will join you on the journey to find the answers you seek for a better life. We will be partners taking responsibility for the outcome. My goal is to resolve your issue and then let you go.
Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications (ie. acupuncture, nutrition, etc)? I became a certified Foundation Training instructor because of the dramatic impact this exercise program has had in reducing my back and hip pain.
What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? I will be formalizing my experience as an MFT to develop a graduate training program to educate therapists in the area of divorce and family reconfiguration.
What should a patient expect from working with you? A detailed intake and functional lab testing to discover the underlying cause of her/his health concerns and a personalized supplement plan based on these results to correct imbalances to achieve each patient’s goals.
What do you most want Natural Awakenings’ readers to know about your work? I am a phone call away. My job is to guide through the process of you solving your own challenges. Then I’m gone until you find another challenge we can solve together.
What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? More speaking engagements for the new year educating the public about functional medicine. I have also begun writing my first book based on my life experience with chronic pain and painkiller dependence.
If you don’t like the road you’re
walking, start paving another one. ~Dolly Parton eNaturalAwakenings.com
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physicianprofiles Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC Yufang Lin, MD David Johnston, DO 158 Danbury Rd, Ste 8, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 Info@OsteopathicWellness.net OsteopathicWellness.net
173 East Ave, New Canaan 203-594-9520, 203- 920-1603 Info@WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org WCMGIntegrativeMedicine.org
Practice Summary: Dr. Johnston provides gentle, intuitive, hands-on osteopathic and craniosacral treatment to release restrictions in fascia, muscles and joints, and restore circulation and balance of the nervous system. Effective for inflammation and pain, concussions, birth trauma, sports injuries, stress/anxiety, headaches and fibromyalgia. Detoxification, nutrition and specialized bloodwork also offered. Complimentary wellness consultations for newborns, children and adults. What led you to become a physician? From an early age, I observed my parents struggle with chronic health issues, which gave me a deeper appreciation for prevention of disease. Osteopathic medicine provided the perfect tool, combining holistic and traditional approaches for healing the whole person. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? Health and wellness is not just about the absence of disease and treating the patient’s symptoms. To experience true health and wholeness, a person must be empowered on their life journey to care for and nurture their body, mind and spirit. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? Board certified in neuromusculoskeletal medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine. Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and Nutrition. Associate faculty for the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation and Osteopathic Cranial Academy. What should a patient expect from working with you? As you enter our serene wellness center, expect to be empowered on your healing journey. Forty-five minutes of healing hands-on osteopathic treatment with Dr. Johnston will provide you with results you can feel immediately.
Practice Summary: I aim to help patient achieve health and wellness using a holistic approach, including, but not limited to, herbal medicine, nutrition evaluation and support, stress management, functional medicine, integrative medicine and energy medicine. What led you to become a physician? I hated to see people suffer and wanted a meaningful career. It was a natural step to become a physician. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? I worked as a traditional Western medical doctor for many years. I quickly realized there are many limitations in this system. The biggest shift occurred when I realized that doctors and medicines don’t heal the patients; indeed, the healing comes from within the patients themselves. My job as the physician then is to teach and guide the patient to health and wellness. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? I am board certified in integrative medicine and have additional training in functional medicine, herbal medicine, Reiki, qigong healing and homeopathy. What should a patient expect from working with you? We will work together to examine your health concerns, get to the root cause of the problem, and address the imbalance in a holistic manner using all the tools and resources that are available. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? I plan to host workshops on herbs, nutrition and supplements. Stay tuned!
What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? As we update our website and social media presence, we will be sharing about upcoming events on wellness and detoxification, nutrition and osteopathy with those who want to be empowered to take charge of their health and restore their quality of life. 32
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Only do what your heart tells you. ~Princess Diana
Functional Medicine & Integrative Care, LLC Tamara Sachs, MD 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 Mail@TSachsMD.com TSachsMD.com Practice Summary: Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by addressing the underlying causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness and complexity that make us human. She develops individualized, simple, affordable personalized wellness plans that are safe and powerfully effective. What led you to become a physician? I wanted to do clinical research to prove that natural medicine works. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? My beliefs have certainly evolved over the decades but the bigger change is how I do what I do. Technology and functional medicine becoming mainstream has made it easier to teach more people about how their bodies work and what they can do with diet and lifestyle to support that. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? I have been practicing functional medicine exclusively since my training with IFM in 2003. I also have advanced training in frequency specific microcurrent, or FSM. What should a patient expect from working with you? Patients should expect a comprehensive evaluation of their health, then a focus on their goals with respect for their beliefs and limitations. I use food, supplements, movement, rest and restorative treatments in addition to working with other specialists and conventional medicine if needed. Patients should expect to feel better and be empowered with knowledge about their bodies, minds and spirit. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? In 2017, we are expanding our work with my health coach, live and online webinar and workshop offerings, and telemedicine options for those at a distance.
Forza 5
Holistic Fitness & Healing Center Lisa Tenore
Yoga, Personal & Group Fitness Trainer Certified Reiki Practitioner Natural Health Consultant Shamanic Healer
203-247-4175
forzafive1047@gmail.com 26 Cannon Road, Cannondale Village, Wilton, CT
Positive & Nature Based Psychology Promoting well-being and resilience.
Happiness • Strength • Hope • Wisdom • Coping • Flourishing
Ann C. Reeves, Psy. D, CAPP Licensed Psychologist
203-451-6208
annreevespsych@optonline.net • www.annreevespsychology.com Offices in Newtown & Wilton, CT
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Deana Paqua, MA, LMT
spiritual teacher, holistic health educator, shamanic healer and reiki master teacher
Spiritual, cross-cultural and holistic health education for healers and spiritual seekers... transform trauma into triumph, heal yourself and make a difference.
ridgefield & new milford ct
www.embodythesacred.net
deana.paqua@gmail.com Ph. 203.994.5045
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physicianprofiles
Bluestone Health Group Kurt Waples, DC 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 Info@BluestoneHealthGroup.com BluestoneHealthGroup.com
True Health Chiropractic Peter Braglia, DC 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 DrBraglia@TrueHealthCT.com TrueHealthCT.com Practice Summary: Our focus is unique. Structural optimization focuses on specifically addressing structural shifts in the spine that commonly cause secondary conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, herniated discs, ear infections and immune and digestive problems. What led you to become a physician? I have always been interested in natural health and nutrition —and when I was introduced to chiropractic care I knew it was right for me. My allergies in the springtime were nearly debilitating and I went the standard pharmaceutical route with prescription antihistamines, eyedrops, you name it; nothing helped. And then I went to chiropractic school and started getting adjusted on a regular basis. I haven’t touched an allergy pill since. It was amazing to say the least. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? I’ve been a chiropractor for eight years and for the last three years I’ve been in my own practice in Stratford. As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, I’ve received advanced training in pediatric adjusting and prenatal care, including being certified in the Webster Technique—a specific analysis and adjustment used for pregnant mothers. How has your practice evolved since it started? Our focus has always been on pregnancy, pediatric and family care. However, what we have noticed is that the majority of our patients are referred to us by other healthcare practitioners, friends and family members. What should a patient expect from working with you? There is no such thing as “one size fits all” in our office. The reason we conduct such a thorough examination on the first visit—using only objective measurement—is so we can recommend to the patient exactly what they need. At True Health, you will always get customized chiropractic care based on your individual needs.
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Practice Summary: Bluestone Health Group is a lifestyle medicine-focused clinic, specializing in total body detoxification, hormone balancing, advanced body composition assessment and neurology-based structural care. What led you to become a physician? Conventional medicine seems to be missing the point. Treating symptoms as a means to be healthy never clicked with me, even when I was a kid. Treating the whole person and creating a better state of health drove me to do what I do today. Have your thoughts/beliefs about doctoring changed since you first began? People are more toxic and stressed than ever. It continues to amaze me how using basic detoxification strategies, always personalized to each client, totally changes their biochemistry. There is no way to gauge this while in school. You have to see it to believe it. Do you hold any additional credentials/certifications? I am a certified applied kinesiologist. I also am a year away from three additional degrees, two in nutrition and an advanced degree in applied kinesiology. I have over 1,000 hours of nutritional school post graduate. What should a patient expect from working with you? Patients should expect a complete body composition assessment and real honesty. We do not accept anything less than optimal. Being in the absolute best health possible is always the goal. Being in the “normal ranges” is not acceptable for me. Expect absolute excellence. What changes do you plan for your practice in 2017? 2017 is very exciting because we are expanding our testing to include even more in office tests. Dr. Kurt is also looking to start teaching other doctors his program so clinical detoxification and lifestyle medicine can be expanded on the East Coast.
natural awakenings
Choosing a Healer Use Discernment; Emphasize Self-Care by Jeanne Street
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hen it comes to the world of holistic care, there are many amazing options now available for us to choose from. But with so many, it is easy to get lost and feel confused and wonder how to choose the right type of holistic care to best serve our individual needs. With modern medicine now offering alternative care treatments at major hospitals and facilities, we are seeing a boom in many types of healing services being offered. Like every other industry, there are some that are good providers and others that are at a different level. Each plays a role and serves a valuable need. It can be hard to discern how to best choose where and to whom to go to for our care. Not all practitioners are connected to their work in the same way; some are still connected more to ego, while others may be more divinely based. The practitioners connected to ego are feeding off of the work in a way that serves their ego lower vibrational energy. The “job” of this type of fear-based
ego, which is typically unconscious, is to feed us fear and fill our minds with fearful thoughts. It is the opposite of love; it is our free will whether to choose a love tone or to flow in fear. Fear is judgment, anger, resentment, hate, anxiety, depression and dwelling on the past. When we are in alignment with our divine source, we work within a higher vibrational energy flow—to be of service rather than to be served. When seeking healing from a more divinely based practitioner, we will feel the love flowing through the practitioner and feel relaxed, safe, supported and cared for. We should not feel fearful, anxious, intimidated. When we need a helping hand, a healing touch, a massage or other holistic alternative care, choose wisely and seek care from those who truly make you “feel better”.
True Healing Emanates from Within Healing comes when we choose to
be healed and not a moment sooner. Healing can only happen when we align to divine energy and take responsibility for the life lessons we are here to learn. We must decide to be an active participant in our own healing and care. Making choices that align with loving ourselves and our bodies by listening to divine guidance is what puts us on the path to healing. No healer or doctor can heal us; holding onto a false sense that a person, a doctor or a healer can magically cure us is turning away from the divine. We align to the miracle of love by choosing it over fear. The world is in a heightened time of low energy. From politics to religion, Facebook to Twitter, so much energy is flowing around it is sometimes hard to break free of the fearful energy that is constantly coming at us. How can we disconnect ourselves from this low vibrational energy that alters our well-being? • Take time to be in nature. This restores the body, mind and soul. • Walk away from electronic devices for at least two hours a day. Do not have them on or nearby when sleeping. • Take a salt bath or shower with a non-perfume-based salt scrub. This draws out the toxins in the body and clears the energetic body. • Eat high vibrational foods; organic diet with lots of vegetables will pro- mote a healthy body and clear mind. • Self-love. By loving ourselves, we will reflect love into our lives. Self-loathe and we reflect that into our lives. Very simply, our thoughts become our lives. • Set a clear intention within our prayers to open your connection to the divine and miracle moments. • Forgive. Forgiveness is the pathway for all healing. • Compassion without compromise heals the soul and invites love to flow freely. Jeanne Street is a spiritual medium, healer, author and the founder of Inspirit Healing Studio in Woodbury. She offers classes, workshops, group reading events and client healing sessions. See ad, page 16.
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ents value coverage that includes annual wellness exams, phone or virtual appointments and educational classes, plus follow-ups and urgent care at minimal costs. The U.S. mainstream fee-for-service approach, whether paid by insurance or cash, has been criticized for encouraging unnecessary tests and procedures because doctors are paid for services performed. To maintain income, they typically shorten appointments to increase the number of patients they see. Lewis emphasizes, “Time is the valuable factor in DPC—healthy lifestyle changes, which can prevent or reverse 70 percent of health concerns, cannot be communicated in 10 minutes.”
Medical Cost-Sharing
AFFORDABLE
For generations, Christian communities have operated health care sharing ministries (HCSM) to collectively share the cost of each other’s medical bills as an alternative to outside insurance. Members are exempt from current Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA) mandates. Liberty HealthShare, a nonprofit HCSM chartered by the Mennonite church, believes that everyone has the right to practice religion as they see fit. Their members share a commitment to personal health and sharing in the burden of health expenses with others that have these values. “Many in the functional and integrative medical arenas also believe in these principles,” says Tom Blue, of Richmond, Virginia, a director with The Institute for Functional Medicine. “Cost sharing feels very familiar; you present your card to your provider, but there’s no set network of providers, which is favorable for those seeking more progressive forms of care.” Expanding upon this model, Blue worked with the company to create its Liberty Direct program (LibertyDirect. org). Individuals pay an annual membership fee plus a monthly share amount. After fulfilling their annual unshared amount of out-of-pocket expenses (similar to a deductible), participants’ healthcare costs—including approved naturopathic and alternative treatments—can be submitted as expenses to be shared by the group. Liberty Direct provides financial advantages to DPC practitioners and patients by subsidizing membership fees; it favors nutrition over chronic prescription dependence by reimbursing physician-prescribed nutritional supplement and pharmaceutical expenses under the same terms. Members must be in good health with a lifestyle that helps sustain wellness, including good nutrition, exercise and abstinence from tobacco use and drug and alcohol abuse. The program also accepts approximately 7 percent of applicants on provisional terms when pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes can be improved through lifestyle changes. They pay an extra fee per month to cover the cost of a health coach; when they achieve their
Complementary Care Alternatives to Insurance Cost Less by Meredith Montgomery
T
he latest National Health Interview Survey available, from 2012, shows an annual expenditure of $30.2 billion in out-of-pocket costs for complementary health approaches, benefiting 33 percent of adults and 12 percent of children, and representing about 10 percent of out-of-pocket U.S. healthcare costs. Insurance rarely covers complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in full. As provider networks shrink, premiums rise and the future of healthcare reform remains uncertain, health-conscious consumers yearn for innovative ways to afford this kind of care.
Membership-Based Care
When Dr. Chad Krisel worked at an urgent care center, he saw up to 55 patients a day. Since opening Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville (IntegrativeAsheville.org), in North Carolina, with Dr. Brian Lewis, he averages 12 patients a day. His team provides a membership-based practice in a payment model known as direct primary care (DPC). Endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians, DPC is broadly accessible. By applying simplicity, sustainability, quality and collaboration, their integrative practice provides comprehensive care for less than what many pay for phone service. “DPC removes traditional financial incentives and conflicts of interest because membership fees fund us. Our only incentive is to help and heal patients,” Krisel explains. Paying for memberships out-of-pocket (often electing high-deductible plans) or via a health-sharing plan, cli36
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goals, they become full members paying regular rates. “The economics are staggering,” says Blue, who used to pay $760 a month for insurance with a $12,400 deductible and now pays a monthly share of $449 with a family unshared amount of $1,500. HCSMs are affordable because of restricted overhead budgets. Plus, they appeal to naturalhealth conscious clients and can decline unsuitable applicants. “This concept of communal cost sharing works— Liberty’s share amounts decreased in 2013 and have not changed since,” comments Blue.
“Cost sharing feels very familiar; you present your card to your provider, but there’s no set network of providers, which is favorable for those seeking more progressive forms of care.” ~ Tom Blue, The Institute of Functional Medicine GreenSurance
Told she was past medical hope, Kari Gray, of Kahului, Hawaii, sought to heal from cancer using natural medicine. “When thousands of dollars spent for natural protocols were denied reimbursement by my insurance company, I saw that the system needs to change,” Gray recalls. CAM therapies still deemed “unproven” by traditional insurance companies gave Gray a second chance at life. Following remission, she began a 20-year search for alternative medicine insurance. Finding none, in 2014, she created GreenSurance (MyGreenSurance.com). Serving people that proactively care for their health and prefer natural medicine as primary care, GreenSurance developed an evidence-based and science-backed list of 40-plus covered CAM modalities, including thermography, energy therapy, biofeedback, essential oils and homeopathy. It also covers conventional medical and emergency care. Enrollees of the member-owned organization are supplied third-party payer information for provider direct billing once the member’s out-of-pocket amount is met. They use any state-licensed provider and the program is often more affordable than traditional insurance. GreenSurance is currently investing resources to broaden consumer access to the tax advantages of a health spending account (HSA). H.R. 1752 would allow enrollees in any healthcare-sharing program to open an HSA. “Simply, we’re a co-op whose members empower us to create an exempt program that protects members from ACA penalties and traditional health insurance,” says Gray. “More, we’re a grassroots movement for change.” Krisel notes, “Doctors too, are livid about the current status of America’s healthcare system. Be vocal about what’s important to you. The more voices heard in Washington, the more change we’ll see.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).
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naturalpet
Why the Best Vets Use It by Shawn Messonnier
M
News, articles, resources, events— all dedicated exclusively to happy, naturally healthy living for our furred, feathered and scaled animal companions For information on how you can be a part of a future issue, call
203-885-4674 or email NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com
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any pet owners have chosen functional medicine for their own care, so they logically turn to it for their four-legged family members, as well. Most veterinarians are still unfamiliar with this approach to pet health care and may even discourage its use because they see it as being out of synch with conventional ideology. Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging patients and doctors in a partnership designed to improve health. This evolved practice better addresses individual needs than a traditional approach that focuses on illness and treating disease rather than restoring overall health. By shifting from an allopathic platform to a more holistic, patient-centered one, functional medicine addresses the whole pet, not just a set of symptoms.
Why Functional Medicine
The system of medicine practiced by most vets is geared toward acute care of a severe trauma or a climax in illness that necessitates urgent diagnosis and treatment. They typically apply specific, prescribed treatments such as drugs or perform surgery to treat the immediate problem or symptom. This approach works well for pets experiencing a crisis, but isn’t appropriate for restoring health when animals have chronic disorders. It also doesn’t help them to at least live comfortably with incurable problems without the side effects often caused by extensive administration of medications.
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Conventional veterinary science lacks the proper tools for preventing and treating complex, chronic disease. In most cases, it doesn’t take into account an individual’s unique genetic makeup or exposure to toxins such as too many vaccines, drugs or environmental chemicals. Functional medicine always focuses on the unique nature of the patient; there is no “one treatment fits all” mentality. Functional medicine vets are specifically trained to assess the underlying causes of complex, chronic disease and to apply strategies such as nutrition, diet and naturopathic remedies to both treat and prevent these illnesses. They can ably help the increasing number of pets suffering from complex, chronic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, allergies, arthritis, seizures, bowel and bladder problems and immune system disorders. Functional medicine best addresses these concerns because it involves understanding the origins, prevention and treatment of ailments and emphasizes customized care. The goal is to promote health as a positive force well beyond the absence of disease. It’s possible for many pets to appear to be healthy while specialized, noninvasive testing shows underlying issues that must be addressed if illness is to be prevented. Conventional medicine either doesn’t offer such testing or ignores minor abnormalities, placing the pet at risk for developing serious and potentially irreversible problems.
Ermolaev Alexander/Shutterstock.com
The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!
Functional Medicine for Pets
Integrative Approach
An integrative, science-based healthcare approach considers interactions in the pet’s history, physiology and lifestyle that might lead to problems. All of the diagnostic and treatment modalities are based upon proven scientific principles and follow evidence-based medicine to yield the best results in terms of total function. Functional medicine integrates traditional Western medical practices with what are sometimes considered “holistic” or “complementary” healing methods. The focus is on prevention through nutrition, diet and exercise; use of the latest laboratory testing and other diagnostic techniques; and prescribed combinations of botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets and detoxification programs, using drugs only when necessary as a last, rather than a first, resort. This whole-pet approach allows doctors to choose whichever therapies are best for each patient. Holistic vets see many patients for which conventional medicine has proven ineffective. Sometimes conventional doctors back away from offering treatment, either because the pet is “too old,” the treatment is “too expensive” or the results are unlikely to be “satisfactory.” Functional medicine can help many of these so-called hopeless cases, return pets to health and often heal disease after principles of functional medicine have been consistently applied to the pet’s everyday lifestyle. Finding a functional medicine vet is challenging, but worth the effort. Focusing on the individual needs of a pet ensures the optimum chance for achieving and sustaining proper health.
ecotip Bird Buffet
Making Feeders Safe for Wild Birds Feeding wild birds helps fuel them and provides viewing pleasure, yet a communal feeder may hold hidden risks, reports a recent study in Ecology Letters. In reviewing 20 published research papers on host/pathogen interactions in human-fed wild populations, researchers at the University of Georgia’s Odum School of Ecology, in Athens, found that intentional feeding changed their behavior and diet enough to foster potentially harmful growth of parasites and viruses. “Feeders can bring unexpected species and more birds together more frequently than normal, facilitating conditions for parasites and other contaminates,” says lead researcher Daniel Becker. Birds crowding into tight spaces to reach tasty morsels also makes it easier for pathogens like house finch eye disease and respiratory ailments to be passed among them. Maintain cleanliness. Stephen Kress, director of the National Audubon Society’s Project Puffin, advises that safe bird feeding includes completely scrubbing out feeders with a 10 percent non-chlorinated bleach solution at least a few times a year, and certainly between seasons. Be food-specific. While using bird seed mixtures to attract a wide range of species is cheaper, such food usually includes fillers like milo that most birds quickly pass through, making a mess under the feeder that can make birds sick. Kress suggests, “Buy specific seeds for specific feeders—like cracked corn and millet in one and only sunflowers in another. This decreases interactions between species that eat the different seeds and dramatically cuts waste.” Creative option. Try some peanut butter and other healthful ingredients, suggests Julie Craves, supervisor of avian research at the Rogue River Bird Observatory at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, in a recent edition of BirdWatching magazine. “It’s high in fat, protein and calories.” Avoid nut butter made with the artificial sweetener xylitol, as it can kill birds. She recommends mixing one part organic peanut butter with four or five parts plain, non-GMO (genetically modified) cornmeal and add oats and raisins. Plain or chunky works. “The dough can then be shaped into portions that will fit in suet feeders or logs, or just placed in feeding trays.”
Shawn Messonnier, a doctor of veterinary medicine practicing in Plano, TX, is the author of The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats and Unexpected Miracles: Hope and Holistic Healing for Pets. For more information, visit PetCareNaturally.com. eNaturalAwakenings.com
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Referral to a qualified practitioner is needed to help a pet benefit from functional medicine.
must contain 95 percent beef exclusive of water, while Beef Dinner For Dogs only needs 25 percent. If the label lists “With ‘XYZ’” ingredient, then “XYZ” must be at least 3 percent. Ingredients are also listed by weight, not volume. It is the exact opposite for human product labeling; that’s where a lot of confusion occurs. Then there are special names for ingredients that sound good, but really aren’t. A good resource can be found at DogFoodProject. com/?page=badingredients. A quality pet food is one that is: 1. grain-free, 2. has a whole specific protein as the first ingredient (such as beef, turkey or chicken), and 3. uses human-grade ingredients.
GET AHEAD OF HIGH VET BILLS Healthy Lifestyle Lowers the Cost by Mary Oquendo
L
ast month we established why veterinary treatment could be costly. But what are our options to reduce those possible expenses? There are two avenues to pursue: prevention and preparation.
PREVENTION Prevention has everything to do with maintaining health.
DIET Are we feeding our pets a quality diet or the equivalent of fast food? Many of us already read labels but confusion often occurs because most people read pet food labels as if they were people food labels. They are not the same. Pet product names are dependent upon a certain percentage of the named ingredient. For example, Beef for Dogs
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natural awakenings
It should not contain corn and soy products, meat by-products or digests, artificial colors or flavors, and sweeteners. BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin and proply gallate should not be listed as preservatives. Ethoxyquin is banned from human consumption. However, it may be used in fishmeal before it arrives at a manufacturing facility and therefore does not have to be listed on the label. The manufacturer will add a disclaimer to the package or website; look for it when buying products with fish. Moisture content is also important. Dogs and cats need a diet that is 70 percent moisture. If they are not getting it from their food, we must ensure that they are drinking sufficient amounts of water. If not, their organs will be in a continual state of dehydration, which will lead to premature organ failure and other chronic medical conditions. Some holistic vets advise cooking for dogs the same way we cook for ourselves, with meats and vegetables stewed in broth or liquid in a slow cooker, for example. For those who feel intimidated about cooking for their pets, Paul Gallant of Paul’s Custom Pet Food (PaulsCustomPetFood.com) in New Milford works with numerous pet owners and veterinarians, pet nutritionists and herbalists to develop recipes and prepare gently cooked and customized meals for pets’ unique dietary needs. His business began as a way to combat his dog’s cancer and
has evolved into much more, benefiting many pets and owners along the way. The most natural diet for our pets is raw. A good resource to learn more about raw diets can be found at KeeptheTailWagging.com. EXERCISE Regular exercise keeps our pets’ bodies in peak condition. Exercise benefits every bodily system and may reduce destructive behaviors. Destructive behaviors have the potential to result in injuries. WELLNESS VISITS Early detection means early intervention. Not only do wellness visits have the ability to extend the life of a pet, but the costs associated with early treatment may be less than with a later diagnosis. ENERGETICS Keeping a pet’s energetic system free from blockages keeps their physical body healthier. Schedule regular sessions with an energetic practitioner before a crisis happens. Choices include Reiki, crystal integrated energy, T-touch, acupressure, massage and acupuncture.
REDUCING HOUSEHOLD STRESS According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 75 percent of all doctor visits are related to stress. When we are stressed, our bodies secrete hormones—such as adrenaline—that our pets can smell. That, in turn, stresses our pets and may cause the same distress on their bodies as it does to ours. PARASITES, FLEA AND TICKS PREVENTATIVES Flea, tick and mite bites can cause serious and life-threatening disease and illness. Prevention is key. There are all-natural products containing essential oils for dogs, not cats. Please don’t use essential oil products on cats. In addition to monthly spot-on products, we can also treat our yards with natural products containing cedar oil or food-grade diatomaceous earth.
PREPARATION Thorough maintained wellness while planning for the unexpected is ultimately the best way to keep veterinary costs down.
We can’t always plan for the unexpected. There are many pet insurance companies; they all have their fine print. Research and decide on a company that best suits needs.
A walk-through of the home and yard at pet level can help to spot and remedy hidden dangers that may result in injury. Mary Oquendo is a Reiki master, advanced crystal master and certified master tech pet first aid instructor. She is the owner of Hands and Paws Reiki for All. She can be reached at HandsandPawsReiki.com. See ad, page 39.
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basis, we begin to think in a different way over time and we begin to take into consideration what they are thinking. We begin to look at situations and circumstances in a different light. This is possible because we have trained our brain to expect to see something else.
The Reticular Activating System (RAS)
Perceptions of Animal Communication Limitations Are in Our Minds by Gwen Gangi
O
ne way or another, everything in life boils down to our perceptions, or the light through which we view our world. Is it bright, light, spacious and airy? Has a bank of clouds obscured the light completely? Or is there a thin, dark veil that cast a shadow over all that we see? We view the world as we expect to see it. We project our perceptions of what we expect to see out ahead of us. Then the world that we see is what we expect. Even if there is another perspective easily discernible, we are conditioned to see what we have told our brain to expect. Animal communication changes our perceptions. The very essence of communicating telepathically with another being is simple acceptance that energy bridges exist between beings. We then choose to use them to achieve a union of consciousness where thoughts can be exchanged. It is an activation of something that already exists. In the case of communicating telepathically with an animal rather
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than another human, we must be aware of any thoughts we have about them being inferior in intelligence or awareness to ourselves. If we think of them as less than us in any way, then we limit our ability to understand them and perceive them as they truly are. If we think of them as substandard, then we are projecting that perception into our interactions with animals. Our own expectations get in the way of experiencing our animals in the way they truly are. That is, amongst other things, a beacon of telepathic communication. Animals’ perception of things, more often than not, is not the same as ours. We can go through the same series of events and have a very different experience. Sometimes these differences of perception come down to very practical living circumstances. Dogs who are aggressive with guests may feel they have to protect their domain. A cat may suddenly stop using the litter box because the living room furniture was rearranged. When we communicate with our animals on a day-to-day
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The reason for this change—particularly when animal communication is used often and over time—is because of an area of the brain called the reticular activating system (RAS). It is a loose network of neurons and neural fibers located in the brain stem. It has numerous functions but one is to act as a portal through which almost all information—except smell—enters the brain. It then acts as a filter for the volume of information you are receiving every second. If we didn’t have a filter in place the amount of information would be overwhelming. This filter affects what gets our attention, and what we do not pay attention to. The information it filters out does not get the attention of our brain. If something is familiar, we expect the stimuli, then we pay attention to it. If something is new or a novelty, we will also pay attention. If we hold the expectation, consciously or unconsciously, that something cannot be, then we do not pay attention to that piece of information. “Perhaps the most important function of the RAS is its control of consciousness: it is believed to control sleep, wakefulness, and the ability to consciously focus attention on something. In addition, the RAS acts a filter, damping down the effect of repeated stimuli...preventing the senses from being overloaded,” WiseGeek.org mentions. We can think of the RAS as an information matchmaker in our brain. It takes our belief system, our perspectives, and it matches them with stimuli from the outside world. However, the RAS filters according to our conscious and our unconscious beliefs. It does not differentiate between our conscious belief in animal communication and our unconscious belief that only crazy people talk to animals and hear voices in their head. We are all exposed to this way of thinking by our society, consis-
tently and over a long period of time. It becomes part of the fabric of our unconscious belief system. But that is not to say that we cannot change how our RAS filters information. The RAS responds to repetition and also to visualizations and images. It also plays a role in dreaming. It has low activity when we are sleeping, but when we dream the activity raises up to similar levels as wakefulness. As we accept the possibility of communicating with animals we become more aware of the animals, around us and their behavior. As our awareness grows, we notice things like them making eye contact, or turning to face us just as we send a thought their way, or asking a question and “hearing” or “feeling” an answer. The more we accept, think about and visualize these things, the more we are training our brain to see more of this. It’s a newly created perspective and it’s OK to see things related to it. Visualizing and thinking about our animal communication experiences before sleep and upon waking is very effective as well. Animals are eager for us to be receptive to their communications. They want us to shed our cultural programming that has us believing they are less intelligent and don’t experience life in the fullest. Now more than ever, animal voices are meant to be heard. We need to let them educate us. We begin this by believing the images, thoughts, impressions and perceptions we receive from them. We accept our moments of clarity and acknowledge our flashes of inner knowing. The more often we use this, the more opportunities we will have to use it. We will begin to see it everywhere we look. The results of our change in perspective will speak for themselves. As we begin to live more harmoniously with those around us, we will feel more at ease and will be able to enjoy what’s around us every day. And by doing so, we open up even more space for positive changes in our life and our world. Gwen Gangi, an animal communicator all her life, lives in Monroe with her husband, son, three dogs and two parrots. Gangi also owns a local pet sitting business. Connect at FurtoFeathers. com, FurtoFeathersPets@gmail.com or 203-610-2444.
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VETERINARY SERVICES A HAND FOR A PAW
FRIENDS OF FELINES INC PO Box 8147, Stamford • 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org
PO Box 389, Bridgeport 203-258-3069 • Info@AHFAP.org AHandForAPaw.org
LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram NFSAW • 223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS) 504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org PET PROTECTORS 2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR) 45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org STRAYS AND OTHERS PO Box 473, New Canaan • 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com TAILS OF COURAGE 1 Pembroke Rd, Danbury 877-63-(TAILS) • TailsOfCourage.org WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA) 1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org
ANIMAL COMMUNICATION/ PET SITTING GWEN GANGI
Fur to Feathers Pet Services Monroe • 203-610-2444 (call or text) FurToFeathers.com FurtoFeathersPets@gmail.com Gwen Gangi has been an animal communicator all her life and has been doing consultations for the past 23 years. Practical for any situation, you enter into a 3-way conversation to get and give information needed. Consultations done over the phone or in person, including home visits.Workshops on animal communication available.
A Hand for a Paw, Inc is a local non-profit dedicated to keeping animals home. Programs include mobile clinics providing pet families with affordable vaccines, micro-chipping and pet food pantry. Visit Animal Artisans at 187 Ferry Blvd, Stratford to support our cause.
NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org
The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs; the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services during the spay/ neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families and offers further lowcost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 41.
PET ASSISTANCE, INC
PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.
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January 2017
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healthykids
tions like insight, judgment, impulse control and empathy, fully mature last; it’s no coincidence that teens struggle in these areas, according to Jensen. The plasticity of the teenage brain is optimal for learning and adaption, but without the frontal lobe feedback, it’s a challenge for them to moderate the heightened emotions, novelty seeking and sexual impulses adolescents are also experiencing. “We expect teenagers to act rationally, but there are many reasons why their brains aren’t taking them there,” says Jensen. “Acknowledging this can lower frustration levels for everyone.”
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TEEN BRAIN
What Kids Need from Us to Grow Wise by April Thompson
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eer pressure and body consciousness are universal challenges facing teens and their parents. Experts find that by modeling healthy habits and maintaining open lines of communication, adults can help foster healthy independent thinking and responses to inevitable situations.
Respect Developing Capacities
Some teen struggles are literally all in their heads, according to Dr. Frances
Jensen, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, in Philadelphia. “The brain is the last organ to mature, and isn’t fully complete until young people reach their late 20s. This allows the brain to adapt to its environment, which can be both good and bad,” says Jensen, author of The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults. Compounding the challenge, the frontal lobes, responsible for higher func-
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Teens learn more from experience than lectures, so parents should facilitate positive experiences and influences at home, advises Carla Atherton, director of The Healthy Family Formula, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, which fosters family well-being by holistically addressing root causes of poor health. Such activities can include regularly preparing meals together and going for family walks, rather than eating dinner in front of the TV. “Doing everything you can to connect with kids while they are in an environment you can control gives them a good foundation they can take into the world,” says Atherton, the mother of three teens. Parents have to give trust to gain kids’ trust stresses educator Naomi Katz, of Galilee, Israel, author of Beautiful: Being an Empowered Young Woman. “Create an environment where kids feel like they don’t have to hide or lie about anything,” Katz says. She also encourages parents to empower adolescents in decision making: Rather than telling them not to try drugs or alcohol “because I said so,” provide them real facts to help them draw their own conclusions.
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Create a Safe Haven
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In today’s hyper-connected world, Katz observes, “Social dynamics can get really confusing and painful and impact kids in far-reaching ways. We used to come home from school and be away from those issues until the next day; now that break doesn’t come because of social media and smartphones.” Katz recommends encouraging
journaling or other forms of self-expression to help teens unplug and reflect. Breathing exercises can help calm nerves and allow them to think more clearly in tough social situations before they react. Katz also suggests teens set aside time each week for a feel-good activity like playing sports or music, to give them a reliable source of pleasure and accomplishment, no matter what else is going on in their lives.
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Stay Alert to Signs
Despite a parent’s best efforts, kids can and will make unhealthy choices, and parents need to be prepared to manage the consequences. If a child is suspected or found to be engaging in dangerous or addictive behaviors like self-harming or an eating disorder, it’s important to address these immediately, seeking professional help if needed, counsels Katz. Jensen remarks that it’s easier to learn unhealthy patterns when the brain is malleable, and addictive behaviors are harder to eliminate than if they are acquired as an adult. The signs of unhealthy behaviors can be subtle, so it’s important to recognize cues without making flash judgments or placing blame, says Atherton, For example, a parent that notices her teen eating differently or obsessed with working out should consider initiating a conversation with him or her about body image. Talking to teens about images in the media can help them gain a more balanced and positive self-perspective. “You can tell your kids, ‘These advertising images are trying to sell you someone’s idea of a perfect look, but it’s not reality,’” says Atherton. For whatever issues teens are trying to cope with, parents need to cultivate their own sense of inner calm; to be the rock that they can cling to. “Caring adults need to give teens a periodic frontal lobe assist,” says Jensen. “It helps when we share more details and insights about how we organize our lives and make decisions. Modeling the rationality and empathy that teenagers may lack can be an effective counterbalance.” Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, of Washington, D.C., at AprilWrites.com.
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greenliving
Holistic Dermatology Inner Health, Radiant Skin by Linda Sechrist
Holistic skin care practices are simple, healthy and sustainably good for people and the planet because they follow nature’s example.
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edical Doctor Alan M. Dattner, a 35-year pioneer in the field of holistic dermatology, faithfully follows nature’s principles in supporting skin health. His book Radiant Skin from the Inside Out: The Holistic Dermatologist’s Guide to Healing Your Skin Naturally maps out how skin reflects the body’s healthy or unhealthy organs and systems.
Finding the internal root cause of problems on the skin, the body’s largest organ, takes time to investigate. Dattner, who practices in New York City and New Rochelle, New York, and considers himself a “skin detective”, says that although his forensic work continues to expand, he still begins his sleuthing by compiling a detailed and comprehensive history
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Mikel Bensend Certified Advanced Rolfer 203-216-9770 mikel@westportrolfing.com natural awakenings
that yields clues for solving health puzzles and points him in the direction of what’s causing problems. Some patients with acne also have symptoms of bloating, gastrointestinal issues or chronic bowel disease. Others may have traveled to another country where they contracted diarrhea from a parasite or foreign bacteria that upset their intestinal microbiome. Skin outbreaks can also be the result of food sensitivities or food allergies. “I make patients aware of the issues underlying their skin problems so that they understand the connection between internal health and skin. Then they can make conscious food choices,” says Dattner. Diet is a critical aspect of healthy skin. Food sensitivities can cause inflammation that can show up on the skin, he explains. Dattner incorporates several diagnostic techniques and remedies from other medical traditions, including herbal, homeopathic and ayurvedic. A tongue diagnosis he uses is taken from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). He uses Applied Kinesiology to refine his therapeutic choices as the results align with his knowledge of dermatology, immunology and integrative medicine. Janice MacKenzie, acupuncture practitioner, teacher and author of Discovering the Five Elements: One Day at a Time, views the skin as a third lung, because it breathes. “If the organs of elimination aren’t working well—large intestine, liver and kidney—then toxins leave through the skin, another organ of elimination,” says MacKenzie, who practices in Perkasie, Pennsylvania. “When constipation leaves toxins to be reabsorbed into the blood and recirculated through the liver, the body, out of desperation, seeks ways to get rid of toxins through the skin. This can result in eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils and acne,” notes MacKenzie. In TCM, the facial redness of rosacea originates in a heating of the blood caused by toxicity. An inflammatory condition of excess energy and toxicity in the stomach travels upward
through the stomach energy meridian that runs from the eye to the second toe. It’s supposed to flow downward through the mouth, throat and intestines and out. Elina Fedatova, cosmetic chemist, aesthetician, owner of spas in Chicago and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and formulator of Elina Organics, addresses skin as an aspect of a whole healthy body. Her product line is created wholly from organic plant extracts and essential oils, made in batches every two weeks. These purely natural products can be ingested without harmful effects. “Formulas are made using holistic principles and adjusted for each season,” says Fedatova.
“Protecting skin from the inside with a nutritious diet that benefits the entire body is vital, as important as keeping the skin’s surface clean.” ~ Elina Fedatova She agrees with Dattner, “Protecting skin from the inside with a nutritious diet that benefits the entire body is vital, as important as keeping the skin’s surface clean.” In caring for skin from the outside, a gentle exfoliation that can be done at home three times a week using a honey mask is the first step. Skin cells produced in the deepest layer gradually push their way to the epidermis every 30 days and die. Dead cells pile up unevenly and give the skin’s surface a dry, dull appearance. Treatment serums, moisturizing lotions and eye and neck creams are necessary elements of a complete facial skin care regimen, as is a natural sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “Using skincare practices and products that follow nature’s example are the perfect external complement to good internal health,” says Fedatova. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings. Connect at ItsAllAboutWe.com.
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struggles. What avenues can we take and where can we even start?
Meditation and Holistic Tools
Healing the Healers’ Mind, Body, Soul and Spirit Use Holistic Tools, Support and Connections by Stacey Lyons
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his past year saw so many deep issues come to the forefront. These affect us all. As healers, we often forget or are unsure what to do when it comes to making sure we receive heal-
ing as well. We spend all day working or helping others while trying to protect our own energy; even when we ground ourselves, there is energy that can creep in, or stir up emotions, fears and
Meditation is a common practice for not only for adults, but is becoming quite popular for children. The benefits have long been studied and are now being widely accepted for overall health and well-being. There are many different ways to practice meditation, whether it be in a studio, group setting, or done individually on our own time in our home. It doesn’t matter how it’s done, just that the time is found to do it. Often we think, “Well I don’t have the time,” “or I can’t clear my mind that way, I just think of all the things that have to get done.” The truth is that we should look at meditation as one of the things we have to get done. We need to view it as a daily routine. If a few minutes is all that we can do, we still reap the benefits. We may even gain guidance into our lives, or melt away stress or worry. Some people choose to make their meditation customized by having a special room dedicated to the practice, playing music, or using stones or crystals to aid in the healing. Some may find it beneficial to go on a meditation retreat to help focus solely on physical, emotional and spiritual health. Other methods that will assist the healer in healing include acupuncture, chiropractic care, Reiki, other forms of
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bother them. The truth is most of us have The truth is most of us Shamanic Healing Retreat also been in situations where we needed have been in in situations Redding help at one point or another. Knowing oin shamanic and that we are not alone in and accepting Forgiveness help practitioners 7eFit Spa Open House where we needed the healing process can have a great teachers Deana Paqua and Jessica This is one of the hardest things to do impact on the mind, body and spirit. in Stamford Hunter for a day of shamanic healing at one point or another. for most people. As healers, we think By sharing our struggles, we open for gratitude, transformation, abuntamford has we should be able to easily forgive. Yet Knowing anddance, accepting ourselves up to other methods of healdiscovery and enlightenment. a new option we replay situations, conversations and ing that perhaps we were previously This all-day healing retreat is open for those seeking more over and over again. Our ego is that we are not alone in unaware of and creates pathways of to anyone and all levels who wish to look and feel on overload just holding on. Eventuconversation and connection where they the healing process can to learn more about shamanism and their best during ally, we have to forgive whatever it may ™ might not have existed before. Maybe shamanic healing practices and techthe holiday seabe, not necessarily for the other people have a great impact oncan thebe incorporated someone close about someniques that intoopens upDeana son and beyond. 7eFit Spaselves. has opened on High Ridge Road, involved, but for our own Paqua thing going on with their lives and learns A new way to looking daily life for transformation and posioffering a variety of aesthetic services and non-invasive mind, techbody and spirit. of a healer who specializes in that. We energy healing, herbal supplements, exercise, yoga and healthy eating.
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Fit Spa
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and feeling good.
tive changes. The event will be held at know the synchronicities we experithe sanctuary at The all Redding Center ence when recommends a for Meditation on November 14someone from tant to any healing process. It can be Many people think healers have it all certain person that usually has a long Relax while our technology 10am to 5pm. brief demonstration sessions during the open house—include made up of our guides, animals, together and that nothing bothers us or waitingand list, teachbut an opening appears for .power does the work A variety of techniques anti-aging and oxygen facials with oxygen Torc Plus biopassed loved ones, angels and any dei- therapy, affects our energy—and even if it does, us or instances Noelectric surgery or invasive procedures. ings will be incorporated throughoutwhere multiple people stimulation for targeted (also available ties we may work with alreadymuscle or feel activation a we have the power to make it better. give us the same name or information. Infrared Saunato. • Micro-dermabrasion with oxygen therapy) and weight loss, infrared sauna for detoxifi- the day, including shamanic journey connection Call them in every day. Although true on some levels, we are Those arecrystal signs from the Universe letting Myolift •toTorc Body Waxing work, shamanic ceremonies, cation, Reiki and• the DietMaster personal loss program. Ask them help ground you and help weight human first; it is hard to do healing us know we are where we are meant to Diet Master •open Oxygen Bar • Reiki The Torc Plustohas been FDA-cleared and is known to be healing, various spirit medicine healing you remain hearing them or work on ourselves while dealing with be. Open the UniDermalogica Facials • Oxygen Facials teachings and shamanic techniquesmind for and allow the effective muscle toning, reduction Hunter seeing anyforsigns theytightening, are sending. The cellulite any personal issue that arises. There is verse to guide and assist Jessica in the journey Teeth Whitening clearing and manifestation practices. and inch loss. with them, the stronger more we work a saying by Vine Deloria Jr.: “Religion is of healing ourselves. And remember, the Paqua and Hunter bring a unique and informative combinaSave Now with Founder Tracey Scalzi, a long-time Stamford resident the connection will become and the for people who’re afraid of going to hell. darkest hour is just before dawn. Introductory tion of shamanic healing and teachings to their gatherings. and business owner, decided toOur open 7eFitSpa because she level of trust will bePrices! enhanced. Spirituality is for those who’ve already Paqua specializes in Andean and South American shaCall 203-356-5822 wanted ahelp new dedicated to helping people DST can usbusiness stay sane during the been there.”look We experience something Stacey Lyons, owner of Elysian Life manic traditions, while Hunter focuses on North American and feelprocess. their best.isThe spa soft opening in June but healing easy to had feel aalone very difficult in our lives and then, all of Design, is a certified life force energy 1092 High RidgeItRoad | Stamford, CT 06905 shamanic traditions. Together, they provide educational and was fully operational with| all equipment and services when we are going through a heala sudden, weavailcome across people who 7efitspact1@gmail.com www.7efitspa.com healer and medium. Her spiritual writinspirational shamanic gatherings that encompass a variety ablecrisis in mid-September. ing of some kind, but the truth need help healing the same things. Most ings and readings have reached more of teachings connection of a variety of Shais the divine is always there to help healers know other healers and can and go a global than 90 countries. Lyons also creates manic Healing practices. Forthrough. more information, visitto7eLLC.com andtovisit the us We may have ask for them in a time of need. But sometimes spiritual-based herbal products. Conhealing, and guidance; even if it Stamfordhelp location, email 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com or call we convince ourselves that we can heal nect at ElysianLD.com and Contact@ morewith information, visit EmbodytheSacred.net and doesn’t come instantly, our1092 request will 203-356-5822. Location: High Ridgeourselves Rd, Stamford or others are For dealing their ElysianLD.com. See Community HunterHealingHands.com. See ads, pages 10 and 20. be heardSalon and itCheveaux). will come.See ad, page 15.own issues and healing so we won’t (inside Resource Guide listing, page 68. niques toSupport support mind Divine Teamand body wellness. An open house is scheduled for November 22 from noon to 7pm. The divine support team (DST) is imporAsking for Help The regular service offerings—which will be available as
transformative natural healing are you ready for a change? Naturopathic Family Medicine For over 25 years, Dr. Debra Gibson has provided caring, personal treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment to support healing transformation of body, mind and spirit. Her thorough, wellness-oriented approach investigates the root cause of chronic health concerns, and uses effective natural therapies to heal imbalances underlying conditions such as fatigue, overweight, allergy and autoimmunity, hormonal imbalance (thyroid, PMS, menopause), gastrointestinal disorders, and children’s health issues. (thy
100 Danbury Road, Suite 102, Ridgefield, CT Ph. 203.431.4443 12
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Debra Gibson, ND
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January 2017
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The Eyes Tell Our Story
How Integrative Doctors See Into Whole-Body Health by Linda Sechrist
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o poets, the eyes have long been known as windows to the soul. Systemically trained ophthalmologists, optometrists and functional medicine doctors see these organs as a potential indicator of high blood pressure, diabetes, stress-related effects and nutritional deficiencies, as well as sites for potential glaucoma and macular degeneration. The connection between overall health and eye health is rarely addressed during conventional eye exams, which are based on standard protocols for
prescribing eyeglasses, drugs or surgery. Conventionally trained optometrists and ophthalmologists, lacking education in nutrition and alternative approaches, treat the eyes as isolated organs. In contrast, systemically oriented, holistic eye experts treat them as integrated parts of the whole body. Eye doctors like Marc R. Grossman, doctor of optometry, a co-founder of Natural Eye Care, Inc., of New Paltz, New York, and Edward C. Kondrot, a medical doctor and founder of the Healing the Eye & Wellness Center,
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
in Fort Myers, Florida, take such a preventive and integrative approach. They recommend good whole foods nutrition, supplemented with antioxidants and plant-based formulations of omega-6 and omega-3 oils, together with adequate sleep and exercise. Key complementary treatments can be effective in improving sight and reversing some conditions. Grossman, also a licensed acupuncturist, explains in his book Greater Vision: A Comprehensive Program for Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Clarity how he incorporates the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of vision into his philosophy of eye care. At Somers Eye Center, in Somers, New York, he uses a full range of mind-body therapies, combined with conventional methods to address dry eye syndrome, nearsightedness, farsightedness, macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Kondrot, a leading board-certified homeopathic ophthalmologist, uses a slit-lamp binocular microscope to examine the complex living tissue of the eyes. The author of 10 Essentials to Save Your Sight, he’s experienced in regeneration nutrition and maintains that our overall health impacts our vision. His toolbox includes multimodal protocols like homeopathy, detoxification, oxygen therapy, low-level microcurrent to stimulate cellular activity, palming (using the hands over closed eyes) and other alternative methods to reverse visual loss. He regularly uses the Myers’ cocktail, an intravenous therapy with a high concentration of B-complex and C vitamins, taurine (an amino sulfonic acid), trace minerals and zinc. “Regardless of your eye condition, regular eye exercises can increase eye muscle flexibility and support circulation for better delivery of oxygen, essential nutrients and the flow of energy to the eyes,” says Grossman. He notes that “Aerobic Exercise Protects Retinal Function and Structure from Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration,” a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience in 2014, was the first of its kind to link physical exercise with improved retinal health and prevention of common eye diseases. While Kondrot emphasizes that vitamins A, C, D and E are essential to eye health, particularly in preventing
macular degeneration, he cautions that taking a supplement is no substitute for expanding the diet to include foods such as kale, spinach, parsley, collard greens, cooked broccoli, green peas, pumpkin and Brussels sprouts. All include lutein and zeaxanthin, two types of important carotenoids contained within the retina and found in the leaves of most green plants. Digestive enzymes, probiotics and the amino acid betaine are also necessary to facilitate better absorption of nutrients.
“Trying to sustain good health and avoiding toxins such as tobacco and excess sugar can definitely help in maintaining good vision.” ~ Dr. Connie Casebolt
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Dr. Connie Casebolt, board certified in family medicine and founder of GFM Expanding Possibility Through Vision Wellness, in Greenville, South Carolina, practices with a whole body-mind perspective and incorporates suppleEyecare Associates, PC é Comprehensive Eye Exams for All Ages ments in patient disease prevention and Dr. Randy Schulman, M.S., O.D., FCOVD é Solutions for Dry Eyes, Computer Use & Sports wellness plans. “As the eye is bathed in Dr. Stephen Carr, O.D. é Exceptional Treatment for Eye Diseases the same chemicals and nutrients as the é High Quality Eyeglasses & Specialty Contact Lenses Dr. Narvan Bakhtiari, O.D. rest of the body, eye conditions can be é Iridology, Vision Therapy & Preventive Vision Care Dr. Brian Rodrigues, O.D. affected by problems affecting the rest Dr. Jason Rutherford, O.D. www.cteyecareassociates.com of the body,” she says. “Low adrenals Prep Work • Sanding • Taping Prep Work • Sanding •2600 Taping Post Road 444 Westport Avenue 6515 Main Street can contribute to macular degeneration. Patching Patching •• Repairs RepairsSouthport, Carpentry •• Carpentry Norwalk, CT 06851 CT 06890 Trumbull, CT 06611 Environmentally Friendly Friendly Additionally, disruption of the energy Environmentally 203-840-1991 203-255-4005 203-374-2020 flowing through acupuncture meridians related to teeth affected by root canals can also affect the eyes. “ She likes the book Whole Body Call Phil Today! Dentistry, by Mark Breiner,We a will doctor Gladly Provide Provide We will Gladly of dental surgery, because it includes References References numerous case histories of CT systemic CT Lic. 55081C 55081C Lic. Fully Insured Insuredthat Fully illnesses, including eye disorders, improve with better oral health. “TryCommercial Green Cleaning Available for HOME! ing to sustain good health and avoiding toxins such as tobacco and excess sugar SNO = Safe-Natural-Organics can definitely help in maintaining good Safe enough to clean Appliances, Counters, Stainless & Chrome. vision,” explains Casebolt. Tough enough to Remove Dirt, Oils & Pet Stains from Carpeting, Sensitive, complex and composed Floors & Blankets. SNO works great to remove Wine & Coffee Stains from Linens, Clothing & Laundry. SNO gets rid of all odors. of more than 2 million working parts, Use for Pets Carriers, Diaper Hampers & Pails, Gym - Diaper Bags. the eyes are their own phenomenon. SNO is Safe Around Children & Pets. Annual eye exams are important at 100% Plant Based Kosher Certified Ingredients. every age to help us do what’s needed Made from Citrus Essential Oils Free of Dyes & Perfumes. to maintain our precious gift of sight. Manufactured in USA FDA Food Grade Facility.
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therapyspotlight
Transcend Trauma with EMDR Energy Psychology Helps Resolve Painful Memories by Stacy Raymond
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ye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a quick, effective energy psychology technique used for resolving painful memories. EMDR is a mysterious name for a technique discovered accidentally in 1987 by Francine Shapiro, PhD. She was upset one day, went for a walk, and found it soothing to scan her eyes back and forth across the horizon. After the walk, she noticed she was no longer upset; she decided to formally study and standardize what she had experienced. Knowing that we process issues during REM (rapid eye movement), or dream sleep, Shapiro hypothesized that by moving the eyes back and forth during the wake state, the same natural healing tendency of the psyche was being activated while simultaneously focusing on an upsetting memory. EMDR helps to access and activate the intrinsic healing mechanism of the mind. Unlike talk therapy, EMDR is a way of neutralizing even the most embarrassing or overwhelming memories without discussing or dwelling on the details. It’s not uncommon for people to dodge seeking help in order to avoid feeling shame or emotional overwhelm so EMDR is a good option for those who do not want to or cannot discuss the details of a painful memory.
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HOW IT WORKS
When a person experiences an upsetting event, they enter a state of fight or flight and the body releases cortisol and adrenaline. The traumatic memory is laid down in a raw and fragmented form; it remains under the command of the emotional brain, or limbic system. Disjointed images, smells, sounds and sensations are recognized as part of the incident, but do not congeal into a coherent story. The irritation remains in undigested form in the mind, almost like a “splinter” in a finger. EMDR essentially removes the “splinter”. Alternating eye movements stimulates both hemispheres of the brain, activating the cortex, which holds a lifetime of wisdom and positive experiences. The emotional brain settles down as the memory is reorganized, consolidated and put into perspective for the first time. EMDR helps the client become unstuck and continue processing the memory until resolution, which is attained when the client no longer reports emotional distress while recalling the incident. It was discovered later that other forms of bi-lateral stimulation (BLS) were just as effective as alternating eye movements. If a client is not comfortable with eye movements, they may wear headphones and listen to alternat-
Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
natural awakenings
ing tones, or hold tappers that buzz left and right. Two other hypotheses then emerged to suggest why EMDR works: desensitization and dual attention. When a soothing back and forth stimulus—think of a baby in a cradle—is repeatedly paired with an upsetting memory, the disturbance is eventually neutralized. Lastly, when a client is maintaining dual attention simultaneously on an internal upsetting memory and an external soothing stimulus, the mind begins to distinguish the two events. One is safe and calming, happening now, while the other was unsafe, disturbing and happened in the past. Resolution occurs when the client fully realizes, “That was then, this is now, and I’m safe now.” Much faster than talk therapy, EMDR typically takes about three sessions to work through a single traumatic memory in an otherwise psychologically healthy adult. Therapy with adults who suffered chronic abuse as children understandably may require many more sessions. Whereas some forms of therapy —such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy—require a client to repeatedly discuss and/or write about the details and their feelings pertaining to a traumatic incident, EMDR proves to be less humiliating and overwhelming for clients. Discussion is particularly uncomfortable if the trauma involves sexual abuse, rape, witnessing a murder or military combat. The client’s dignity and need for control are respected as they are given the option to discuss the details or simply give it a title, such as “the bathroom incident”.
THE PROCESS
First, the client chooses which form of BLS feels best (eye movements, audio tones, or the hand-held tappers). Next, a “safe place” is established whereby the client thinks of a place they feel calm and stress-free. (Therapy is not effective if the client does not feel safe and grounded.) Then a “target” memory is chosen by the client. It is up to the client either to describe or to simply think about the worst part of the incident. They are then asked a series of questions including what emotion they are currently feeling, where in their body they feel the emotion, how
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intense do they rate the emotion from 1-10, and what negative belief do they have about themselves regarding the incident. It is not uncommon for someone to believe, “It was my fault,” or “I should have stopped it from happening”. As the client thinks of the worst part of the memory, the therapist offers sets of BLS that last one to two minutes. The emotion and quality of the scene quickly begin to shift away from being raw and upsetting. Once the memory is desensitized, it will no longer present itself as an intrusive images, sounds, nightmares or flashbacks. It has been reprocessed and filed in the cortex as “something bad that’s over now.” Spontaneously a positive belief emerges, such as, “I did my best,” or “I’m safe now”. The client has a renewed sense of empowerment. EMDR is known to successfully treat PTSD, panic disorder, anxiety, depression and many other conditions. It effectively alleviates unpleasant memories, big or small. EMDR can help free a person from the negative feelings and beliefs that haunt them and erode their self-esteem. In a sense, EMDR is “organic” because the mind’s natural healing tendency is activated with BLS and the therapist allows it to safely unfold to resolution without interfering. It is important for all therapists to monitor the effect of job stress on their own emotional and physical well-being. Due to their tendency to be highly sensitive and empathic, therapists are quite vulnerable to the impact of the upsetting material clients bring to them. It may be in the therapist’s best interest to seek a brief course of EMDR therapy for themselves as well in order to remain healthy, grounded and present for traumatized clients.
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TLC Center • 152 East Ave • Norwalk, CT 203-856-9566 • TLCcenter.com
otal Life Care Center was founded in 1997 by Beth Leas on the premise that a single candle burns brighter in a gathering. Today TLC is Fairfield County’s largest holistic health network, with more than 90 independent members. Total Life Care Center is dedicated to holistic health by providing you with highly trained and experienced integrative health care practitioners.
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Practicing EMDR requires proper training. For a list of trained therapists and/ or to access the wealth of research supporting EMDR, go to EMDRIA.org. Dr. Stacy Raymond is a clinical psychologist, certified in EMDR, who specializes in trauma from her office in Ridgefield. Connect at DrStacyRaymond.com, DrStacyRaymond@gmail.com or 203-493-0344.
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INSPIRED
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TABLE
THE OTHER SIDE OF GLUTEN-FREE LIVING Most People Benefit from Gluten by Judith Fertig
S
ales of gluten-free products reached $973 million in 2014 and are projected to grow to $2.34 billion in 2019, according to Packaged Facts, a market research publisher. Many such products cost more than their gluten-based counterparts.
Gluten Sufferers
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203-885-4674 54
The latest study, published in the American Medical Association publication JAMA Internal Medicine, found that the number of Americans with celiac disease remained relatively stable from 2009 through 2014 at about 2.7 million. Meanwhile, marketers for gluten-free products report about 40 million consumers. Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which ingesting gluten causes issues such as intestinal damage, anemia and fatigue. Those afflicted improve when gluten is removed from their diets and their intestinal tracts heal, according to the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital, in Boston. Those with a non-celiac gluten
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sensitivity or wheat allergy also experience a range of symptoms, including bloating, brain fog and joint pain, when they ingest gluten. According to the Center, as many as 7 percent of Americans, or 18 million people, fall into this vague category, due to a far less understood immune response distinct from what’s linked to celiac disease.
Gluten Beneficiaries
The many Americans unaffected by gluten may want to avoid gluten-free products, says Dr. Michael Greger, a Washington, D.C., physician specializing in clinical nutrition. The bestselling author of How Not to Die, Greger founded the educational nonprofit NutritionFacts.org and is a founding fellow of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. “Just because some people have a peanut allergy doesn’t mean everyone should avoid peanuts,” says Greger. “Some evidence suggests that a gluten-free diet may adversely affect gut health in people without celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy.” He cites a small study published
in Gut Microbes which found that a one-month, gluten-free diet may hurt gut flora and immune function, potentially precipitating an overgrowth of harmful intestinal bacteria for those on gluten-free diets. The gluten components that cause problems for the wheat-sensitive may act as prebiotics and feed good bacteria for the rest of us, says Greger. “Wheat bran contains the important wheat-based prebiotic arabino-xylan-oligosaccharide,” explains Case Adams, a Morro Bay, California, naturopath and author of The Gluten Cure: Scientifically Proven Natural Solutions to Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivities. “It feeds the probiotics that produce enzymes which help break down gluten and gliadin proteins.” Researchers from Pennsylvania’s University of Reading conducted multiple studies showing that arabino-xylanoligosaccharide derived from wheat bran increases beneficial bifidobacteria populations in the guts of humans. It is disappointing that a number of highly publicized studies done on celiac patients have been inappropriately applied to the general population, notes Adams. Gluten may also boost immune function. In a study published in the journal Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, researchers found that after less than a week on a diet with added gluten protein, subjects experienced significantly increased natural killer cell activity, which could improve their ability to fight cancer and viral infections. An earlier study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that high-gluten bread improved triglyceride levels better than regular gluten bread. Plus, Greger says, avoiding gluten means missing out on all the fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients from whole grains like wheat, barley and rye. A whole-grainrich diet has been repeatedly shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and some forms of cancer in studies from such institutions as the University of Minnesota and Lund University, in Sweden. “Most gluten-free processed foods are not made with nutrient-rich, health-protecting whole grains,” adds Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., registered dietitian, nutrition coach and author of Diet Simple. Ingredients such as potato starch and cornstarch with little nutritional value typically help take the place of wheat flour. “The gluten-free label has little to do with nutritional value.” French fries and many candies, for example, are naturally gluten-free.
Impact of Self-Diagnosis
Self-diagnosing a gluten issue can delay a doctor’s accurate assessment, cautions Greger. “We diagnose celiac by looking for the inflammation caused by gluten in celiac sufferers. If they haven’t been eating a lot of gluten, we might miss diagnosing the disease. Thus, instead of being on a gluten-free diet, we want celiac suspects to be on a gluten-loaded diet, such as four to six slices of gluten-packed bread daily for at least a month before they come in for a diagnostic exam.” Studies are ongoing and information continues to evolve regarding the pluses and minuses of a gluten-free diet. Judith Fertig writes food health articles and cookbooks from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).
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ROOT VEGETABLE AND POTATO SKILLET CAKE
(Serves 8) Parsnips and carrots give this potato pancake-style dish wonderfully sweet flavor. Taking the extra step to make clarified butter ensures a beautifully browned crust.
INGREDIENTS:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 parsnips, shredded 2 carrots, shredded 1/2 cup finely diced red onion 1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 3/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1 large egg white, lightly beaten 2 (8-ounce) russet potatoes, peeled, shredded and squeezed of excess moisture • Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, until it begins to sputter and is covered with a layer of foam, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and wait until sputtering stops. Skim off and discard foam; pour clarified butter into a small bowl, leaving behind any milky liquid. • In a large bowl, combine the vegetables and onion. Sprinkle with flour, salt, chili powder and nutmeg, and toss to coat. Stir in egg and egg white. • Brush a large skillet with clarified butter and line just the bottom with parchment paper. Brush the paper and sides of the skillet generously with 1 tablespoon more clarified butter. Heat the skillet over medium heat until hot. Pour in vegetable mixture and press gently. Cook, running a spatula around the edges of the skillet occasionally, until bottom is very brown, about 12 minutes. • Place a round platter upside down over the top of the skillet. Grasp sides of the skillet and platter with oven mitts and invert pancake onto the platter. Press back in any stuck bits of pancake. Wipe the skillet clean, place parchment back in the skillet and brush generously with clarified butter. Slide pancake back into the skillet (browned-side up) and continue to cook over medium heat, loosening edges with a spatula and shaking the pan occasionally to loosen the bottom. Cook until bottom is browned and crisp and pancake is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Invert the skillet again to remove pancake. Cool 5 minutes before cutting into wedges.
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Find Jo Robinson’s free Wild Side Shopping Guide at Tinyurl.com/WildSideProduceList.
Born to Eat Wild Why Ancestral Diets Boost Health by Judith Fertig
I
n The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals, Michael Pollan surmised that we’d be healthier if we ate the way our great-grandparents did. It would mean sticking to regularly scheduled meals instead of impulsive snacking, having a meat or protein item comprise only a quarter of our plate, adding fresh vegetables and eliminating junk food. We must look further back than our immediate ancestors, counters Jo Robinson, a food journalist who surveyed more than 6,000 scientific research studies before writing her bestselling Eating on the Wild Side: The Missing Link to Optimum Health. She has also co-authored several other books, including The Omega Diet: The Lifesaving Nutritional Program Based on the Diet of the Island of Crete.
Narrowed Field of Foods
“Many believe we have dumbed down the nutrition in our food over the past 100 years,” says Robinson, who lives and gardens on Vashon Island, Washington. “Research shows we have been breeding out proteins and minerals and most importantly, antioxidants, for much longer.” She points out that the hunter-gatherer diet encompassed many wild foods that tasted more bitter, astringent, sour and earthy than the sweet blandness in today’s fruits and vegetables. Wild foods offered a wider variety of phytonutrients, but came at a cost—the time required to hunt and gather enough food for a day, let alone a season. “Then, 12,000 years ago, we had a better idea—gardening,” says Robinson. “We evolved to 20 varieties in a garden versus 150 in wild plants.” First, farmers chose sweet, starchy, mild-tasting, oil-rich foods such as figs, dates and olives. “We’re hard-wired to choose high-calorie foods because they’re directly connected to the pleasure centers of the brain,” she adds. 56
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After that, the trend to grow sweeter-tasting, less nutritious plants snowballed. Robinson cites research that found adding one Golden Delicious apple to the daily diet of a small group of overweight men led to higher levels of undesirable low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides due to its high-fructose content and low levels of antioxidants (International Journal of Preventive Medicine).
Wilder Options Even organic farming methods, in which the soil is naturally enriched, can’t return all those lost nutrients to our food. Rather than advocate that we return to eating wild foods, Robinson suggests finding wild equivalents. Even those that follow a paleo diet—presumably eaten by early humans and consisting chiefly of meat, fish, vegetables and fruit, excluding dairy, grain products and commercially processed items—could use further refinements in the produce they choose. She recommends specific varieties of fruits and vegetables and explains the benefits of “wild” foods such as meat, eggs and dairy from livestock and poultry fed on grass on her website, EatWild.com. We can make smarter choices, seeking wilder-type varieties of foods at the grocery store, farmers’ market and garden seed companies. In general, they are more vividly colored, especially from red to purple, and less sweet. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables indicate a botanical sunscreen the plant produces to protect itself from ultraviolet light and other external threats, notes Robinson; it’s an indication of a higher antioxidant activity. “Find as many purple foods as possible because they have anthocyanins, known to fight cancer and inflammation,” suggests Robinson. “The original carrot from Afghanistan is purple. It’s only been orange for the past 400 years when it was bred to salute the royal House of Orange, in the Netherlands.” According to Robinson, we can also prepare our foods in ways that maximize their phytonutrient content. Eat fresh-picked asparagus and broccoli immediately or their natural sugars and antioxidants disappear. Let chopped or pressed garlic sit for 10 minutes before using so its pungent allicin—the healthy compound that benefits our health—will increase. Tear fresh lettuce the day before eating and keep it fresh in a plastic bag with poked holes, to allow the stillliving lettuce to rally its healthy compounds as if its battered leaves were repelling an insect attack. This emerging science of polyphenols, the technical term for phytonutrients in our food, will be explosive, predicts this pioneering research-based author. “There’s a new study just about every month,” she finds. It can all lead toward breeding and growing more nutritious foods that are more readily accessible to everyone. Judith Fertig writes cookbooks and foodie fiction from Overland Park, KS (JudithFertig.com).
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The best drinks are festive and taste great. They should also be easy to fix. Here are five to get us started.
a Gluten-Free, Plant-Powerful, WholeFood Lifestyle; YumUniverse.com/ fresh-peppermint-tea.
agave nectar, 1 thinly sliced Meyer lemon and 1 thinly sliced pear in a pitcher. Add ice and stir. Pour into glasses to serve.
Meyer Lemon Hot Toddy
Fresh Hot Ginger Tea
Yields: 1 serving In a champagne flute, pour a jigger of gin, the juice of half a blood orange and a squeeze of Meyer lemon juice. Top up with champagne. Courtesy of Kathryne Taylor, a whole foods and vegetarian blogger; Search CookieAndKate.com.
Holiday Sangria Yields: 8 servings Combine 1 liter of cabernet sauvignon, a quart of pomegranate juice, ¼ cup
Yields: 2 servings
Yields: 1 serving
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, and then add 1 small knob of fresh ginger, precut into thin slices. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain out the ginger slices and serve in a mug.
Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Remove from the heat. Stir in the juice of half a Meyer lemon, a tablespoon or two of honey and a jigger of whiskey. Serve hot in a mug.
Courtesy of Judith Fertig, Alfresco FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
Courtesy of Judith Fertig, Alfresco FoodAndLifestyle.blogspot.com.
Fresh Hot Peppermint Tea Yields: 1 serving Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. While it’s boiling, place 7 to 10 fresh organic mint leaves in a tea cup. Pour the hot water over the mint leaves and let them steep in the cup for 5 minutes. Strain out leaves as desired, and enjoy. Courtesy of Heather Crosby, author of YumUniverse: Infinite Possibilities for
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Blood Orange French 75
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Seasonal Drinks that Revitalize
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FITNESS 2017 New Year’s Resolutions that Stick by Aimee Hughes
E
very January, we rally our hopes, vowing that this time our New Year’s resolutions will finally stick. However, “If you don’t have a plan, plan to fail,” says Kansas City, Missouri, personal trainer Jake Albracht. We can make our health and fitness goals for 2017 a reality instead of just wishful thinking. Find a good trainer. “A personal trainer provides a helpful base of knowledge because the hardest part for most people is a lack of planning and diligence in following up. Trainers can step in to help a client achieve their goals,” says Albracht. Jeanne Rankin, assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Kentucky, in Lexington, adds, “A personal trainer can also help you set lofty goals that you wouldn’t have considered on your own due to fear of failure in achieving them.” Secure personal attention. Individual attention is invaluable. Albracht notes, “There’s nothing like the instant feedback with technique, information and support that one-on-one training provides.” Rankin adds, “In ongoing individual evaluation, a personal trainer can see exactly what’s going well and what
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isn’t, providing a better assessment than in a group.” “Group settings can also be positive and mimic a team environment, but a one-on-one relationship allows for a deeper bond of trust. Sometimes that can make all the difference in the world,” Albracht explains. Ask questions. If engaging a personal trainer isn’t in our available budget, they are often willing to answer a few burning fitness questions. Most of us have had volunteer teachers at some point in our lives that expected nothing in return because they loved sharing what they know. It’s a slower process, but can be a viable option. Set realistic goals. “I tell clients that structuring a program of specific goals will always trump a non-structured program,” says Albracht. “They need to fill out a goals sheet and develop a personal model that is repeatable, sustainable and successful. We use the SMART acronym for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely.” Sometimes writing things down is just what’s needed to make them actually happen. “When you look at pictures of famous people in magazines, realize
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fitbody
that the images have been Photoshopped. They also have access to the best and most expensive resources in the world, and looking good is their job,” reminds Rankin. “Set a goal, and then set a bunch of small, achievable, measurable and quantifiable steps along the way that’ll push you towards that bigger goal.” For example, If the goal is to lose 50 pounds in a year, then maybe shoot to lose 30 pounds in the first six months and 20 in the second six months. “Breaking it up into what feels doable for you is key,” says Rankin. Establish intentions. Krysten Clark, a Los Angeles personal trainer, yoga teacher and founder of Yogva Nutrition, uses the SMART elements along with establishing an intention for each session. She states, “It’s important to recognize what ‘being healthy’ means to you. I always have my clients set an intention for their workout in the moment, which allows them to be fully present with what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. Connecting with their ‘why’ proves powerful in a day-to-day practice.” She also strives to bring mindfulness into any fitness workout that evolves from a mind-body connection. The accompanying sense of self-compassion furthers progress in the neverending process of personal growth and healthy living. Acquire a fitness posse. An accountability partner can be a friend or a personal trainer—someone that’s only a phone call away. Rankin observes, “If you know that you are letting someone down by not working out, then you are more likely to stick to a plan, especially if you’re paying that person.” Hit the reset button if needed. “Set a deadline to attain a goal and work backwards from there to achieve it,” advises Albracht. “If the goal is missed, reassess and plan again.” Be patient and forgive yourself as often as necessary if slip-ups occur. The ultimate results of feeling good and healthier provide their own payoff. Aimee Hughes, a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO, is a doctor of naturopathy and consultant for the Yandara Yoga Institute. Connect at ChezAimee@ gmail.com.
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Magazine calendar events must be received by January 12 (for February issue) and adhere to our guidelines. All calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page. SUNDAY, JANUARY 1 Burning Bowl Celebration Service – 10:30am. During this service, we take the opportunity to find all the good in the past year and plan to see the presence of God in each day of the upcoming year. Wear white. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Create a Vision Board for 2017 – 1-3pm. Jack Canfield says Vision Boards are one of the most valuable visualization tools because they represent your dreams, your goals, your ideal life. Create your own Vision Board for 2017- which will lead you to the hidden side of your authentic self. $50. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com. New Years Day Drum and Dance – 1-3pm. Supriya Swerdlick creates a safe and non-judgmental environment that frees both movers and musicians to play, experiment, and shake things up. $28/adults, $7/teens, students, seniors and children. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Free New Year’s Day Meditation – 3:30-5pm. Who doesn’t love a new beginning? This is a TLC Salute to the New Year! Join Beth Leas for a guided meditation as we step into the portal of a new beginning together; harness the collective energy as we release 2016 and step fully in 2017. Free. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@ gmail.com. TLCCenter.com.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 3 Angel Light Healing Initiation – 7-8:30pm. Invoke the Healing Light of the Angels for purifying, balancing and integrating the chakra centers and to align the energetic bodies with the higher realms of angelic consciousness. Wear white clothing. Free. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney. com. SoulHealingJourney.com.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 6 Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki master (20 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. 2 manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.
Spiritual Psychic and Healing Fair – Noon-5pm. Gifted readers and healers available for appointments. 30 minutes or 1 hour. Reiki Healing sessions also available. $45 and up for readings; $30 for healing. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. My10cats@optonline.net. AlbertsonChurch.org. Cultivating Inner Joy Dance, Dream and Fly in 2017 – 2-5pm. With Jojo Keane, Journey Dance Leader and Shamanic Healer. Uncover your blind spots, release blocks, wake up on a cellular level. Cultivate inner wisdom, focus and passion for 2017. Wear comfortable layers, bring journal and water bottle. All other supplies provided. $45/ by 1/3; $55/after. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 New Year Manifestations – Noon-4pm. Start the year in right relationships to all living beings with collective prayer of love and unity for self and planet. Experience plant medicines, mantras, flower essences, essential oils and guided sivasana water journey and a shamanic cleansing ceremony. $63. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com/events. Restorative Yoga Workshop – 1:30-3pm. With Shannon Aleksa. Experience gentle movement, restorative postures, soft music, light meditation, pranayama, aromatherapy and deep relaxation. Fully supported yoga postures with the aid of blocks, bolsters and blankets. No experience needed. $30/ by 1/5; $35/by 1/7. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@ LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net.
MONDAY, JANUARY 9 Men’s Group Open House – 7-8:30pm. Embrace and celebrate the full spectrum of our authentic beings, as we reflect on and develop the true meaning and purpose of our lives. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 Wise Woman Wednesday – 6:30-8:30pm. Women only this month. Monthly herbal healing circle: learn about the Ancient Art of Herbal Steams for Women (Yoni Magic). With Caity Flanagan. Take-home healing remedy included. $25/pre-registration;
AWAKEN WELLNESS FAIR …Awaken to Your Best Self… Sunday, January 29 • 10am-5pm Hotel Pennsylvania Penntop Ballroom 401 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 Speakers, Healers, Vendors and Readers Over 100 exhibitors, 1000 guests! AwakenFairs.com Exhibitor spots available $30/at door. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-460-2854. BekahTwinStar@ gmail.com. TwinStarTribe.com/events. Holistic Moms Network Meeting – 7:30pm. With Lorena Seidel, author of The Purposeful Child. Create a more positive relationship with your children and create a more peaceful home for your families. Lorena uses approaches such as Montessori and Waldorf and principles of Social Emotional Learning (SEL), positive discipline as well as the latest brain research. Free. Associates in Family Chiropractic, PC 156 East Ave, Norwalk. RSMJChiro@ sbcglobal.net.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12
The Conversation – 7-9pm. Come join our lively and meaningful discussion on life and death. RSVP. Free. Alliance for Conscious Transitioning @ The Liphe Balance Center, 36 Michaels Way, Weston. 203-556-9521. Info@AllianceFCT.com. AllianceFCT.com. Full Moon Meditation – 7-9pm. Full Moon Meditation and Drumming. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton.
markyourcalendar CELEBRATING LIFE AND BEYOND Alliance For Conscious Transitioning Presents:
End-of- Life ‘The Conversation’ Thursday, January 12 • 7-9pm Free - Open to All - RSVP Moment of Death With Patricia Shelton, author, teacher, founder of the Clear Light Society. Learn how to meld the consciousness of yourself, that of the person in transition and family members into a powerful clear unity leading up to the moment of transitioning. March 4 & 5 • 9am-5pm Call for details RSVP Call: 203-912-2791 Email: Info@AllianceFCT.com Visit: AllianceFCT.com Liphe Balance Center, Weston
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 13
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19
SATURDAY, JANUARY 14
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20
Full Moon Ceremony – 7-8:15pm. With Regina Snyder. Bring your mental, emotional, and physical bodies into balance. Let go of unhealthy patterns, sending healing to places in need and opening yourself to receive Divine Love. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Conscious Communication Workshop – 2:305:30pm. With Greg Barringer, ShaktiAnanda Center for Energy and Bliss. Workshop consists of meditation, breathwork and movement, dialogue practices and discussion. Come for this exploration of more effective conversations and fulfilling experiences with others. $45/through 1/7. Yoga For Everybody, 27 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. 203-7222025. Greg@ShaktiAnanda.yoga. Yoga4Everybody. net/workshops. Self-Defense Workshop – 4-5:30pm. With June Fagan, 4th Degree black belt. Family self-defense workshop. $25/per person; $75/family of 4 or more. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 15 New Year’s Intention Setting: Life Coaching Workshop for Women – 11:30am-1:30pm. Through group discussion, movement, journaling, vision boarding, mind/body tools and more, you will be inspired and empowered to move toward greater fulfillment, passion and purpose. $40/by 1/12; $45/by 1/14. LifePath Yoga & Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-354-7070. Nina@ LifePathYoga.net. LifePathYoga.net. Mediumistic Message Circle – 1-3pm. With Verline Eldridge. Receive a message from your loved ones in spirit. Gifted medium who shares messages from the other side in witty, humorous and ultimately compassionate ways. $20. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org. Restorative Yoga with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 4:30-6:30pm. With Marie-Anne Gajdosik and Judy Vuozzo. Revitalize, heal and renew your body, mind and spirit. This is a practice to experience deep rest and healing. $35/before, $40/day of. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 17 Make Your Own Herbal First Aid Kit – 6-9pm. Learn how to naturally treat cuts, bumps, bruises, colds, stomach aches, itchy skin and more. Each participant will go home with their own fully stocked herbal first aid kit. $75, pre-registration required. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com/events.
Birth Your New Life – 7-8:30pm. With Eilis Philpott, Rebirthing breath-work practitioner. Learn how Rebirthing breath-work, or Conscious Connected Breathing, can help you clear and integrate challenging emotions and release stuck patterns. $30. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com. SoulHealingJourney.com. Movie: The 12 Powers – 7pm. Based on Charles Fillmore’s classic book. First in a series of three documentaries entitled A Sound Called Unity, all of which are based on the primary teachings of the Unity spiritual movement founded by Fillmore and his wife Myrtle in 1889. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 Dark Moon Astrology Webinar: Bob Dylan – Noon-1pm. With Michele Leigh. Explore the natal chart of Bob Dylan, an American songwriter, singer, artist and writer. Join from home or phone at tinyurl.com/BobDylanChart. Available for download later if you can’t join at scheduled time. Free. Online. DarkMoonAstrology@gmail.com. DarkMoonAstrology.com. Movie: The 12 Powers – 12:30pm & 3pm. Based on Charles Fillmore’s classic book. First in a series of three documentaries entitled A Sound Called Unity, all of which are based on the primary teachings of the Unity spiritual movement founded by Fillmore and his wife Myrtle in 1889. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Connecting to Source with Jeffrey Migdow – 1:30-4:30pm. Learn how to use yogic practices, such as meditation, postures, pranayama, and mantra/ sound vibration, to facilitate healing and expand consciousness. $45/YTA members; $65/nonmembers in advance; $55/$75 at the door. The Yoga Studio at Club Fit, 584 North State Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY. 914-582-7816. YTAPresident@gmail. com. YTAYoga.com. Making Divination Cards with Zellie – 2-4pm. With Zellie. Make Divination Cards. Forza 5. $25. Forza 5, 26 cannon Rd, Wilton.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 22 Movie: The 12 Powers – 4pm. Based on Charles Fillmore’s classic book. First in a series of three documentaries entitled A Sound Called Unity, all of which are based on the primary teachings of the Unity spiritual movement founded by Fillmore and his wife Myrtle in 1889. $10. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
MONDAY, JANUARY 23 Men’s Group Open House – 7-8:30pm. Embrace and celebrate the full spectrum of our authentic beings, as we reflect on and develop the true meaning and purpose of our lives. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com Guided Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls – 7-8pm. With Linda Fiske and Judy Vuozzo. Last Friday of each month. Relaxing guided meditation with the live playing of Tibetan singing bowls. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 Reiki Second Degree – 9:30am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki master/teacher (20 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. 2 powerful energy connections from my short Japanese/Usa Linage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Angel Light Healing Initiation – 11am-12:30pm. Invoke the Healing Light of the Angels for purifying, balancing and integrating the chakra centers and to align the energetic bodies with the higher realms of angelic consciousness. Wear white clothing. Free. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney. com. SoulHealingJourney.com. Empowerment Class – 1:30-3:30pm. With June Fagan and Tracy Mignone. Learn techniques to living a healthier life. $45. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. New Moon Celebration – 7-8:15pm. With Regina Snyder. The new moon is the best time to manifest and bring in all things new, health, abundance and prosperity. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 29 Saving Grace Workshop – 1-2:30pm. With Rev. Jordan Taylor. Mother Mary channeled workshop on the power of forgiveness, love, acceptance, peace and oneness to illuminate our lives. To allow us to live in a greater state of peace and grace in our daily lives. $25. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. AlbertsonChurch@gmail.com. AlbertsonChurch.org.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Chakra Workshop – 2-4:30pm. Explore the entire chakra system with Reiki Master Berta. Learn how healing can be possible on all levels. $45. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-3457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.
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ongoingcalendar sunday New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually-minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Come together to share thoughts, experiences and wisdom in a supportive environment. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program (Kids and Teens) – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Introducing kids to meditation, metta, yoga, art practice, a discussion of ness in everyday life, generosity, compassion, letting go of negative mind states and other basic Parents can meditate in the main building. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-noon. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfoldment with thought provoking, soul healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Albertson Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Includes an inspirational talk from caring ministers, guided meditation, time to receive healing energy and spirit messages from those we continue to love. Free. Albertson Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Ups and Downs – 4:30-5:30pm. Three sets of weights, different weights bring it up and bring it down, then continuing for muscle exhaustion. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton. Bliss Out! Dance to Live Drumming – 7-8:30pm. Dirst Sunday. With Jojo. Find your tribe. Open Sky Yoga Barn, 95 Cross Hwy, Redding. Keane.Jojo@ gmail.com.
monday Tai Chi – 9:30-10:30am. With June Fagan. $17 or class pack. Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@Naam YogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com.
2017
meditation, mantras (sound), yantra (sight), and slow motion movement. $100/5-week series. TLC Center, 152 East Ave, Norwalk. 203-856-9566. TLCBethLeas@gmail.com. BethLeas.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Free Guided Meditation – 7:30pm: second Monday. 1pm: first and third Wednesday. With Dr. Allen Levy. Session is catered towards providing information about the way in which meditation can assist with specific social, emotional and physical health need. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Monday Meditation for Everyone – 7:30-9pm. This is Meditation Guided Imagery for relaxation and stress reduction. It also helps you move forward on your spiritual path. No experience necessary. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.
tuesday
editorial calendar JANUARY
Redefining Doctor Healing the Healer FEBRUARY
Natural Living Directory Patient Empowerment and Advocacy Positive Psychology MARCH
Trees & Human Wellbeing Food Sensitivities APRIL
Lyme Disease Complications and Coinfections Eco-Yards MAY
Women’s Health Mind-Body-Spirit JUNE
Healing Chronic Pain Medical Marijuana Hybrid Vehicles JULY
Toastmasters – Noon. Interested in public speaking? Monroe-Trumbull Toastmasters is a chartered club of Toastmasters International dedicated to improving members’ communication and leadership skills. Meets alternate Tuesdays. Body Smart, Crescent Village, 115 Main St, Unit 11, Monroe. 203-459-6773. Franny. Hannigan@charter.com. ToastMastersClubs.org. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/dropin, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690.
Summer’s Bounty Detoxification Natural Beauty AUGUST
Autism Spectrum Children’s Dental & Eye Health SEPTEMBER
Rethinking Cancer Yoga OCTOBER
Life Design Medical Massage NOVEMBER
Metabolic Imbalances Silent Retreats DECEMBER
Community Connections True Prosperity
Monday Morning Meditation — 11:30am12:30pm. With Beth Leas. Practical approach and individualized support. Great for those new to meditation and sage meditators. Explore different meditation techniques including breathwork, guided
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ongoingcalendar The Art of Meditation – 6-7pm. Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned, this class will help you access inner peace and experience more clarity, purpose and joy. Chairs available. $10/ suggested donation. Any offering, large or small accepted. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, (Rt. 6), Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com. Yoga – 6-7pm. Yoga with Julia. $20. Forza 5, 26 Cannon Rd, Wilton. Meditating Holistically – 6:30-8pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. ah Yoga, 168 New Milford Tpke, New Preston. 860-868-6707 or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Angelic Healing Group – 7-9pm. First Tuesday. Experience the healing energy of the Angelic Realm. Your energy body will be infused with the love and light of the Divine through meditation and hands-on touch. $20. Stevens Memorial Church, 8 Shady Ln, South Salem, NY. 203-438-4893. Yoga Class or Yoga/Float – Yoga: 7-8pm. or Yoga/ Float package: 7-9pm. Enjoy the benefits of yoga in the beautiful PuREST relaxation room. $15/yoga only. $65/yoga and float package. PuREST Float Center, 35 Corporate Dr, Trumbull. PuRESTFloat.com. Reiki Shares – 7:30-10:15pm. First and third Tuesdays. Gigi Benanti Usui/Karuna Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Exchange ongoing since 1996. Instructions included. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150.
Darkness cannot
drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. ~Martin Luther King, Jr.
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wednesday Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares – Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions and if you are a trained healer: Reiki or otherwise share and practice your gift. $10. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311. Apothecary Hours – 10am-1pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com. Women’s Wisdom Group – 10:30am-12:30pm. Women support each other through the process of recognizing and embracing one’s full, authentic beings and, in doing so, nurturing their highest potential. $30. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org. Free Guided Meditation – 1pm. First and third Wednesdays. With Dr. Allen Levy. In 20 minutes, you will be meditating for the first time. Please RSVP. Free. Sabita Holistic Center, 3519 Post Rd, Southport. 203-254-2633. Sabita@SabitaHolisticCenter.com. SabitaHolisticCenter.com. Reiki Share – 6:30-8:30pm. First Wednesday. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $15. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. High Powered Healing – 7pm. First Wednesday. Easy ways to well heal on all levels. Intuitive insight, easy methods for daily wellness, how to determine quality foods and abundance. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Trinity@TrinityProduction.org. TrinityProduction.org. Meditation – 7-8pm. Transform you by healing the chakras through the release of long-held negative thoughts and beliefs, stagnant emotions, and discordant vibrations. Active-style meditation. All faiths and cultures welcomed. Perfect for all levels. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 755 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. A Course In Miracles – 7-8:30pm. Study group where anyone can come without fear of being judged, a place where feelings can be shared in a loving, accepting atmosphere and above all, a place to enhance fun and inspire a sense of joy and laughter. $10/suggested donation. Soul Healing Journey, LLC, 40 Livingston St, Fairfield. 203-767-5954. Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com. SoulHealingJourney.com Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Stamford Positive Living Forum – 7-8:30pm. Second Wednesday. Meetings feature inspirational speakers who aim to introduce you to happiness boosters and techniques to lead to emotional and physical well-being, happiness and an overall sense of
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positivity. Free. Innovation Center of Stamford, Old Town Hall, 175 Atlantic St, Stamford. 203-962-1062. Donna.M.Vella@gmail.com. HappinessClub.com. Learn to Love Yourself – 7:30-9:30pm. Second Wednesday. With Ginny Brown and Ellen Kratka. Little-known spiritual truths applied to everyday life. Let go of negative judgment and unconditionally accept yourself. $40. By phone or internet. 203-263-2643. E.Kratka@sbcglobal.net. Results-BeyondBelief.com. Journey Group – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. With Cindy Miller. If you are looking to get unstuck, learn more about self-empowerment, becoming a healing facilitator, than this is the group for you. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-426-9448. Cindy@TrinityProduction.org. TrinityProduction.org.
Sacred Spirit’s Reiki Shares — 7-9pm. Second and fourth Wednesday. With Valerie Tarangelo R.M. Mini healing sessions. In healing others healers are also healed themselves. All welcome. $10. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-344-9311. Using Smart Body (Kinesiology) for Everyday Situations– 7-9pm. Third Wednesday. Learn how to sense the energy of foods, supplements, books, places and more. Learn how to change energy. Presentation and discussion. $20. Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St, Newtown. 203-377-6162. Bruce.Zboray@yahoo.com. TrinityProduction.org. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and educrcation for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.
thursday Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. Simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Thursday Morning Meditation for Moms – 9:3011am. Come and unwind with a Guided Meditative Journey geared to release stress and a healthful more positive understanding of self. $20. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plain St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. EFT/Meditation for Parents and Caregivers – 10-11am. With Lauren Wolfe. Feeling drained by daily life? Come join other parents and caregivers and make time for self-care. Learn how to decrease stress and ground your energy using these simple techniques. $20/session. The Office of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, 898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ste #6, Ridgefield. 203-438-4848. DrRoseannInfo@att.net. DrRoseann.com. Tai Chi Classes – Noon-1pm and 6-7pm. With Tai Chi Master Rich. For all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance. Focus
is on purposeful work to improve well-being and self. $25/drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. Kung Fu Classes – 1-2pm and 7-8pm. With Sensei Rich. The ancient of art of Kung Fu is known for its ability to increase mental focus, strength, flexibility and balance and for its self defense moves. $25/ drop-in, $85/1 class per week-month. $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 59 Ledgewood Rd, Redding. 203-938-3690. EFT Tapping Circle Meetup – 7-8:30pm. Second and fourth Thursdays. Come learn about your energy body. Every month will be a different topic or exercise. No experience needed, all are welcome. $15. Location given with RSVP. 203-247-1318. Robin@ RobinFriedman.net. EnergyToolsForDailyLiving.com. Meditating Holistically – 7-8:30pm. With Urgyan, a Western Buddhist lama sharing a rich practice of traditional meditation guidance directed toward holistic integration. Group meditation and discussion, devoted to our mutual innermost truths. $15. YogaSpace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-YOGA or Danbury Area Vajrayana Buddhist Meditation on Meetup.com. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. Second Thursday. All welcome. Non-Reiki and Reiki practitioners share and experience Reiki. See details on Unity website. Hosted by Gigi Benanti Reiki master/teacher. $20. Unity Center for Practical Spirituality, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGiGiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
friday Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Free Mommy and Me Yoga – 10am. With Brooke de Weaver. We supply water and mats - just bring yourself and your kids. Free. Yogasmoga Townhouse, 68 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich. Somatics – 10:30-11:30am. With Darlene Carman. The practice of body awareness and using the body to heal itself. Class Pack or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-7302400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Women’s Wisdom Group – 10:30am-12:30pm. Women support each other through the process of recognizing and embracing one,s full, authentic beings and, in doing so, nurturing their highest potential.. $30. SunRaven, 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford. 914-218-3113. SlowMedicine.org. Student Massage Therapy Clinic – 11am-noon. Relax and enjoy a 50-minute, full-body massage for only $20 at our Danbury Campus public clinic. $20. 44 Shelter Rock Road, Danbury. KMCCaffrey@ Ridley.edu. Ridley.edu. Apothecary Hours – 11am-4pm. Meet like-minded folks and learn about what we do at Twin Star Herbal and Energetic Studies. Free. Twin Star Herbal Education, 65 Bank St, New Milford. 203-313-7883. Info@TwinStarTribe.com. TwinStarTribe.com. Gentle Naam Yoga – 3:30-4:45pm. With Darleen Driver. Gentle introductory class to learn about the special benefits of the Naam Yoga practice. Class Pack
or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave, Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Teen Meditation – 5-6pm. This is an enjoyable approach to the understanding of self and how you fit into the world in which you can grow with confidence. Come and explore a guided meditative journey that helps to melt away stress and anxiety. For teens and up. $15. Soul Focus, 145 Grassy Plains St, Bethel. 203-570-3868. Vinyasa Flow – 5:30-6:30pm. With Patricia Voorhees. Class guides you through classical yoga poses with attention to breath and mind-body awareness. Class Pack, or $17 (+tax). Naam Yoga Connecticut, 164 Greenwood Ave. Bethel. 203-730-2400. Info@ NaamYogaCT.com. NaamYogaCT.com. Guided Meditation Series with Crystal Singing Bowl – 7:15-8:15pm. Five-part meditation series. Using guided imagery and the crystal singing bowl, each meditation examines one topic from the perspective of the three different levels of body, mind and spirit. $30. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr. Norwalk. 203-952-6272. MegReilly360@gmail.com. Discussion with Spirit – 7:30-9:45pm. Last Friday. An evening of messages from Spirit and loved ones. Bring questions, receive channeled information specifically geared to you. Receive help in empowering yourself to navigate this lifetime. $40. Call or email for location. EarthAndHealing@hotmail.com.
saturday Angelic Reiki Meditation with Essential Oils – 8-9am. Receive short, hands-on Angelic Reiki, experience powerful techniques to reduce stress and relax. $10. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave (in the back, downstairs), Norwalk. Pre-register: 203-852-1150. Love Yourself Fit Meetings – 8:30am. Support for your sacred journey of real weight loss. Meetings offer you a place to be accountable to your highest vision for your healthiest self. $15. Insights Wellness Center, 458 Monroe Tpke, Monroe. 203-260-9353. ChrisGuerrera@me.com. InsightsWellnessCenter.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life, and discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Dr. Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Kids and Tween Yoga – 11:15am-12:15pm. K-5th. Sara Kate Venison. 4-week series. LifePath Yoga and Wellness, 430 Main Ave, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203354-7070. NAntolino@aol.com. LifePathYoga.net. Open Mic Night – 7-9 pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Flr, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.
classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com. FOR RENT OFFICE SHARE FOR HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER available at Ridgefield wellness center. Large treatment room with windows and a peaceful waiting room. Email for details: Info@OsteopathicWellness.net. OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE IN QUAINT, PEACEFUL SPA in the charming village of Georgetown, CT (next to Elevation Spin and across from Wire Mill BBQ). Prefer a practitioner or business that focuses on holistic wellness. Rent depends on amount of time/days wanted. Please contact Susi Laura at 203-438-2900. SOUTHBURY, CT. TWO OFFICES FOR RENT: (1) Private, new, quiet with waiting room. $650 per month. (1) Office for Share: New, quiet, furnished. Available on Tuesdays and weekends. Call 203-966-5509.
HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Would you like to help spread the word about natural health and personal empowerment? Contact Publisher Nicole Miale today about becoming a Community Street Team member to represent the magazine at some of our many upcoming community events. NicoleM@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.
PRODUCTS HOME OF THE $10 YARD STATUE. Pet memorials, Angels, Buddha statues, Bird baths. Many dog breeds. Shipping worldwide. 75 Laura St, Tiverton, Rhode Island. 401-314-6752. SpringhillStatuary.com. Open year round.
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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide (CRG) in print and online email FFCAdvertising@ NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our advertising rates. ACUPUNCTURE INGRI BOE-WIEGAARD, LAc
Fairfield, Wilton, Bethel 203-259-1660 • CTAcupuncture.com 25-year full-time practice Ingri treatments help alleviate pain, depression, neck and back, anxiety, headaches, stress, allergies, asthma, arthritis, digestive, menstrual, infertility and smoking and weight loss issues. See ad, page 22.
JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc
Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com Concierge care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more. Facial rejuvenation/cosmetic acupuncture also offered. See ad, page 21.
JODY EISEMANN, LAc
Offices in Norwalk, Southport and Trumbull 203-216-2548 • AcupunctureHealingCT.com High-quality acupuncture for all. Benefit from the centuries-old and highly effective science of acupuncture and TCM. 25+ years of experience; acupuncture offered in private sessions as well as a ff o r d a b l e g r o u p s e t t i n g s . Specializing in treating all kinds of pain and general health issues.
ASTROLOGY
BEHAVIORAL THERAPY THE CENTER FOR COGNITIVE & BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (CCBH) 5 Sylvan Rd South, Westport 888-745-3372 • 203-307-5788 CCBHTherapy.com
The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health (CCBH) provides individualized mental health services in a warm, holistic environment. Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) teams offer individual, group, and family sessions, as well as skills coaching for all age groups. Our CCBH team offers these therapies along with yoga, mindfulness, meditation and naturopathic services. See ad, page 7.
BIOFEEDBACK OPTIMAL MIND
Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net Biofeedback/neurofeedback for ADHD, enhanced focus, peak performance, test stress, anxiety, chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, anger, meditation, mindfulness training and more. Dr. Edwards is board certified and NYS licensed. Physician and self-referrals welcome.
BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC
Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com
DARK MOON ASTROLOGY Michele Leigh LLC DarkMoonAstrology.com
Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, non invasive, FDA regisE tered. LAK
Providing birth chart analysis, synastry readings, progressions and solar returns. A practitioner of OWF N ancient astrology and planetary S magic, Michele is an active MALSLECTION T S I R member of the International H CO C Society of Astrological Research (ISAR). She is the author of the fantasy novel, Tales of the Deer Witch and produces a monthly podcast to coincide with the full moon. See ad, page 33.
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CANCER SUPPORT THERAPIES DORETTE LEWIS-SENIOR, ND, MSAC, BS-RN, LCM Yale New Haven Health, Integrative Medicine 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull 855-735-2533 • Drs2Health.com
Dr. Lewis-Senior has been a Naturopathic physician and healthcare provider for more than thirty years combined. Her focus is on womens’ health, especially cancer, diabetes, weight and pain. She is experienced using multiple modalities to establish health and bring about healing. Some Insurance accepted.
KERRY HARDY RN, HNB-BC, RMT, CCH Holistic Heaven 203-895-5134 HolisticHeavenWellness.com MyDoterra.com/HolisticHeavenWellness
As a holistic nurse, I understand the importance of balancing traditional medicine with alternative complementary therapies to heal the mind, body and spirit. Offering health and nutritional counseling as a Certified Holistic Cancer Educator, Reiki, pranic healing and crystal therapy, aromatherapy w/doTERRA essential oils. Specializing in working with patients experiencing chronic pain, chronic disease and cancer. See ad, page 15
CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC
True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care.
RISA SLOVES, DC
Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 • CTChiropractic.com Dr. Risa Sloves is 1 of 12 Chiropractic Physicians in Connecticut with Board Certification in Maternity and Pediatric Care including Webster and Bagnell Turning Techniques . Also provided: acupuncture, BioSET Allergy Elimination Technique and the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression. See ad, page 37.
COLONICS COLONICS
914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC
501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Ready to start feeling healthier? Take your first step with this gentle cleansing procedure. Watch our colonic and detoxification videos on our new video website located at WholeBodyMed.com. Call for Free CD on detoxification. See ad, page 2.
CRYSTALS MOTHER EARTH GALLERY
449 Danbury Rd, New Milford 203-775-6272 • MotherEarthCrystals.com The area’s finest crystal shop for natural, polished and tumbled gemstones for healing or collecting. Hand-crafted gemstone jewelry, candles, chimes, books as well as a showcase for local artisans.
EDUCATION WESTBROOK NATURE SCHOOL 7 Long Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-664-1554 Info@WestbrookNatureSchool.org WestbrookNatureSchool.org
At the Liphe Balance Center of Weston 203-912-2791 AllianceFCT.com
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Our mission is opening the conversation and providing resources, programs and services, to support and embrace end-of-life transition. The Alliance was born out of a deep desire to honor, respect and meet the needs of individuals and their families at the end-of-life. See ad, page 47.
MARY GILBERTSON, MS, BSN,CHHC
Dr. Joachim has been in private practice since 1990, specializing in nutrition, natural allergy elimination and functional medicine. Through specialized testing, he identifies subtle changes in individual physiology which may be at the root of troubling symptoms. Addressing the underlying dysfunction can help you feel better, for good.
Working 1:1 in groups and corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. You receive tools to optimize your health through nutrition, disease management, exercise, weight loss and stress reduction. 28 years of experience supporting teens and adults in healthy lifestyle. Available for speaking engagements and health events.
TAMARA SACHS, MD
ROOTS RISING ALCHEMY
Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 156 East Ave, Norwalk 203-838-1555 CTNutritionCenter.com
Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Monroe Tpke, Monroe • 203-521-4733 GilbertsonMary@yahoo.com Prescription4Wellness.com
Functional Medicine & Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 Mail@TSachsMD.com Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illness by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity, and intuitions that make us human. She develops individualized, simple, affordable Personalized Wellness Plans that are safe and powerfully effective.
KURT WAPLES, DC
Bluestone Health Group 47 Oak St, Ste 250, Stamford 203-220-6488 BluestoneHealthGroup.com Specializing in clinical detoxification, fat loss, nutritional medicine, applied kinesiology and neurological-based chiropractic care. Stateof-the-art body composition analysis and physical assessment. Call today to experience the power of natural medicine.
HAIR LOSS & TRICHOLOGY LISA PRIMPS, TRICHOLOGIST, HLP, AT The Primping Place Spa 500 Newfield Ave, Ste 9, Stamford 203-325-9565 • ThePrimpingPlace.com
Melissa Conroy, CHC 203-673-9491 RootsRisingAlchemy@gmail.com Offering 1:1 health coaching services including the “The 90 Day Total Transformation Program” & “14-Day Cleanse Reset”. Book your FREE Total Transformation Discovery Session now at rootsrisingalchemy.com to discover what has been keeping you from having the health & body you want, develop a powerful vision for what a total transformation means for you & your life, discover which foods & lifestyle habits are sapping your energy & bringing you down (and what to do about it!), & get crystal clear on a step-by-step plan to create a total transformation in 90 days or less. Change your Habits, Change your Life.
HOLISTIC DENTIST MARK A BREINER, DDS, FIAOMT 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com
Dr. Mark A. Breiner is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he is a soughtafter speaker and lecturer. His popular consumer book, Whole-Body Dentistry, has been sold worldwide. See ad, page 2.
Fairfield County’s first location offering the XTC Multi Theraputic Hair Growth System including non-invasive low level laser therapy- clinically proven and shown to be safe & effective at regrowing hair and creating a healthy scalp. The Primping Place also offers electrolysis & clinical skin care since 1992.
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A nature-based education on six acres of trails, streams and meadows, with an organic garden and natural playscapes. Our curriculum builds physical and emotional resilience, moral awareness and the foundation required for intellectual growth. See ad, page 44.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
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HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM
Thea Litsios, CHy, 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-693-1493 HealingTreeWisdom.com Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups. See ad, page 9.
MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com
Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ad, pages 17 and 51.
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN
SOULBYRD THERAPIES, LLC
Sherrylee Dickinson, MLSW, LMT 203-984-6042 SherryLeeDickinson.com US.NYROrganic.com/Shop/SherryLee
SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER
Ken Hoffman, DAc, (RI), LAc, CCH, Medical Director Chris Maslowski, LAc, Resident Practitioner 31 Old Rt 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center
Stay grounded and on track with life coaching sessions, including vision board work, boundary and goal setting, and wellness workshops.
Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.
DARLENE ALVAREZ MADDERN
“Create With Your Thoughts” Life Empowerment Coach, Teacher, Speaker & Mentor QSCA Certified Law of Attraction Coach, MA Sociology 860-488-2619 CreateWithYourThoughts.com
INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY
I empower my clients to move beyond their limiting beliefs, strengthen their sense of self worth and confidence to create the happiness, abundance, home, health, & relationships they have always wanted. Create the life you want! See ad, page 11.
EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC
Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Stephen Carr, OD, Narvan Bakhtiari, OD Brian Rodrigues, OD, Jason Rutherford, OD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 CTEyeCareAssociates.com
MASSAGE & BODYWORK
We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 51.
MICHAEL FINKELSTEIN, MD, FACP, ABIHM SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineDoctor.com
Insightful health evaluations with customized medical guidance. Consultation and holistic-lifestyle teaching and coaching aimed at attaining enhanced health and wellness on every level.Uniquely qualified to offer a second opinion from a Holistic Perspective. See ad, page 45.
LIFE COACHING
INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER
2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 18.
INTERFAITH MINISTRY REV. DR. CHRISTINE VILLANI 203-823-3453 RevVillani@gmail.com Loving-Memories.com
HENRY C. SOBO, MD
Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Practitioner Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLMT.com
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Dr. Sobo provides Natural Hormone therapy, weight reduction programs, IV vitamin/minerals treatments, allergy evaluation and treatment, fibromyalgia care and treatment for a wide variety of problems utilizing an Integrative Medicine approach.
ROBIN ORDAN, LMT, LCSW, CICMI
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Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com
Reverend Villani is an ordained Interfaith Minister. She performs weddings for all denominations and belief systems. She also performs baby namings and funerals. She is certified in Reiki and is a medium who gives readings.
Robin has been providing massage and Reiki for over 15 years. Specializing in Swedish, Pregnancy, Trigger Point, Injuries and Infant/Child Massage Instruction. SessionsKE A FLad, are individualized to meet your needs. See W O N page 11. SS
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Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com
272 N Bedford Rd, Mount Kisco, NY 914-241-7363 FLSM.com
Adam Breiner, ND, Director Elena Sokolova, MD, ND David Brady, ND, CCN, DACBN 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Using state-of-the-art science combined with centuries-old healing modalities, our caring naturopathic doctors correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment protocols or therapies include: Abdominal Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Allergy Desensitization, Chinese Medicine, Colonics and other Detoxification Protocols, Electro-Dermal Screening, Energy Medicine, FDA-cleared Phototherapy, Functional Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Hormonal Balancing, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Metabolic Typing, Nutritional Assessment, Real-Time EEG Neurofeedback and other therapies. See ad, page 2.
6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 ValleySpiritCoop.com Meditation can be easier to master than you think. Taoist, Buddhist and generic meditation. Beginners and experienced practitioners both welcome. See ad, page 21.
NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com
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Non traditional holistic sessions to free and empower yourself on your path of healing and awakening with a blend of psycho-spiritual therapy, energetics and universal wisdom.
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SunRaven: The Home of Slow Medicine 501 Guard Hill Rd, Bedford, NY 914-218-3113 SlowMedicineTherapist.com Offering a whole-being, integrative approach to wellness, nurturing clients into health on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical levels. Following one’s heart to Re-envision life in order to flourish. See ad, page 45.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
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MARIA C CASTILLO, MSW, LCSW 238 Monroe Tpke, Ste B, Monroe 203-445-8966 • Msisi@aol.com LifeBetweenLivesTherapy.com
Past-Life Regression, trained by Brian Weiss, MD. Life Between Lives Hypnotherapy, trained by TNI and Michael Newton, PhD. Traditional psychotherapy with a spiritual approach; Reiki. Connect with your soul self and let your inner wisdom guide you.
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PsychoSpiritual Therapy and Coaching 203-260-9353 ChrisGuerrera@me.com InsightsWellnessCenter.com
WHOLE-BODY MEDICINE LLC
VALLEY SPIRIT WELLNESS
We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions, restore balance and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 15.
CHRISTINE GUERRERA, LMFT
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We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.
PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL COUNSELING
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9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org
Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support. She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, page 12.
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REDDING CENTER FOR MEDITATION
Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org
Dr. Johnston has been providing gentle, holistic hands-on osteopathic manual treatment and nutrition for over 20 years. Excellent for newborns, birth trauma, concussions, headaches, sports injuries, neck and back pain, digestive issues, brain support, stress, fibromyalgia, detoxification and weight loss, specialized bloodwork.
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158 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-438-9915 OsteopathicWellness.net
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Join us for a transformative experience as you develop your intuitive and scientific abilities to heal through therapeutic touch. Classes taught to auditory, visual and kinesthetic learners. Financial aid available for full and part-time programs.
DAVID L. JOHNSTON, DO
Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, Chinese/ Western herbs, allergy/toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/ enzyme therapies. See ad, page 10.
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TURNING POINT REIKI LLC
PSYCHOTHERAPY
JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield 203-438-3050 TurningPointReiki.com TurningPointShare.com
NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW
Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Re-discover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs.
OPTIMAL MIND
Lawrence Edwards, PhD, BCN, LMHC 2 Byram Brook Pl, Armonk, NY 914-219-8600 OptimalMind.net Integrative psychotherapy: depression, anxiety, addictions, relationships, and more. Dr. Edwards is a NY lic. psychotherapist with 40 years of experience compassionately working with adults to realize their goals. Meditation and mindfulness training are also offered.
ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW
Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/ bonding, child development and parenting. See ad, page 27.
REIKI
JoAnn uses intuition, experience and a deep spiritual connection in her Reiki, IET and Reconnective Healing sessions. Specializing in care for individuals with Cancer, Lyme disease and Back Pain. All Reiki levels taught.
JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER
2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui & Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki Classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 18.
ROLFING/STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION WELCOME TO GRAVITY
Yoni Hormadaly, LMT 109 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-550-6888 StructuralTransformations.com Yoni has been practicing Structural Integration since 2002. Specializing in improving the relationship between the human body and gravity. Flat feet, chronic pain and discomfort, improvement in athletic pursuits, general self improvement, are some of the reasons clients of all ages have sought out this work. Free phone consultation.
GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com
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Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/ Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.
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Providing Rolfing Structural Integration to Fairfield County. We provide soft tissue manipulation and movement re-education for postural, functional and chronic pain issues with offices in Westport and Fairfield. See ad, page 46.
natural awakenings
SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER HUNTER HEALING HANDS
Jessica C. Hunter 203-916-8381 HunterHealingHands@hotmail.com HunterHealingHands.com Healing sessions in shamanic healing, Melody crystal healing, Reiki, shamanic intuitive readings. Accredited and certification training programs in Reiki, crystal healing and shamanic healing. See ad, page 29.
SPIRITUAL CONSULTING ELYSIAN LIFE DESIGN Stacey Lyons 914-336-7693 Contact@ElysianLD.com ElysianLD.com
Stacey Lyons is a Certified Energy Healer and Certified Medium who has performed international medium readings. Specializes in Spiritual Consulting, Space/Land Clearing, Energy Healing, Herbal & Essential Oil based spiritual products & more. Start your spiritual journey with us today.
TAI CHI/QI GONG JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAc
Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 • ValleySpiritCoop.com
Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using ancient Chinese arts. Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats. See ad, page 21.
TRANSFORMATIVE HEALING BETH LEAS
Transformative Healing • Tarot Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 53.
SPIRITUAL ARTS LLC
Richard Wlodarski, RMT 2505 Main St, Ste 209B, Stratford 203-605-0773 Rich@SpiritualArts.info SpritualArts.info Richard is a Reiki Master/Teacher and intuitive reader. He specializes in home and property cleansings. Come and experience the healing attributes of Reiki and discover spiritual guidance and awareness, with over 30 years of experience.
WELLNESS CENTER 7eFIT SPA
1492 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-356-5822 7eFitSpaCT1@gmail.com 7eFitSpa.com 7eFit Spa offers a variety of aesthetic services and noninvasive techniques to support mind-body wellness. Services include antiaging and oxygen facials with aromatherapy, Torc Plus bioelectric stimulation for muscle activation and weight loss, infrared sauna and the DietMaster weight loss program.
LIFEPATH YOGA & WELLNESS
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COMING IN FEBRUARY 2017
Natural Awakenings’ Annual Directory Issues Save Now with Introductory Prices! Fairfield & New Haven Editions Double Directory Special Call 203-356-5822 Reach more than 100,000 readers in the Fairfield/Housatonic Valley and New Haven/Middlesex, CT regions! Advertise your business year-round in two Natural Awakenings annual directory issues!
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Final Deadline: January 12, 2017 Fairfield Edition • 203-885-4674 | New Haven Edition • 203-988-1808 eNaturalAwakenings.com
January 2017
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COSMIC RHYTHMS displayadvertiserindex
J
Alliance for Conscious Transitioning
by Alethea Hunt
anuary begins with Mars in contact to Neptune with an excellent vibe for all restorative or meditative activities. Dreams can become very active with this influence; make sure you get good rest while identifying what might be conflicting with your ability to rest. This combination can also generally indicate a “tired and cranky” type of vibe. Though a prescription sleep aid may be tempting, you might wish to address the issue through a gentler, natural means first. At the same time, be proactive in addressing how things like alcohol or other substances can potentially interfere with circadian rhythms. Or perhaps it is simply time for a new mattress. Mercury resumes direct motion on January 8 after weeks of retrograde movement. As it comes to a standstill in the sign of its detriment (Sagittarius) on this date, it’s a good policy to censor your mouth a bit around this time rather than just blurt things out indiscriminately—especially if you are tempted to “talk some truth”. There may also be some rethinking of your philosophies, whether they be political, moral or otherwise; perhaps, more specifically, it relates to career and/or parenting philosophies with Mercury receiving influence from serious Saturn. In a broader sense, it is good advice to put things into context—information, knowledge and gossip especially—and to also make sure you are looking at all situations over a long enough timeline to get perspective. The Cancer Full Moon on January 12 is locked into a cross involving Pluto, Jupiter and Uranus, potentially making familial support tough to come by around this time. Power struggles are possible, especially with parents and authority figures in general. If you struggle with feeling whether your family has your back, this might be a good time instead to connect to the energy of your ancestors; pray for spiritual support and/or guidance from those further back in your lineage. Building an “ancestor altar” may be one way to help you connect. In other Cancerrelated areas, know as well this moon can potentially prompt an unexpected relocation/change of residence. There are four celestial bodies traversing through Pisces this month and, as such, it will be important to be aware of escape fantasies. It will be super easy to tune out and get swept up in addictive behaviors; they can run the gamut from substances to daydreaming that someone will come riding in on a white horse to rescue us, to retail “therapy”, to getting lost in a relationship. It is understandable to long for a respite, but with most of these bodies eventually running into a square with Saturn, a big reality check is needed. The Aquarius New Moon ionizes the air around January 27, thanks to its electric vibes. There can be some degree of unrest for stale social paradigms. If you find your “crew” isn’t aligning with you, this would be a good time to set an intention to meet a different crowd with more harmonious views or beliefs. On that note, think about attending a few Meetup groups or getting outside of your standard, confining “comfort zones” for connecting with others. A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-9176312, Alethea@EmpoweredDestiny.com or EmpoweredDestiny.com.
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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition
Natural Awakenings’ Franchise Sales
71
Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care 37
Natural Health & Wellness Center
15
The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical
2
Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market
57
The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental
2
The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Health
7
Chamomille Natural Foods
55
CT Acupuncture Center/ Ingri Boe-Wiegaard
22
Dark Moon Astrology/ Michele Leigh
33
Alan Dattner, MD
47
Michael E. Doyle, MD/ Stamford Integrative Medicine
21
Noreen Ehrlich
47
9
Nature’s Way Natural Foods
27
Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic
41
Olivette
57
Robin Ordan, Coach
45
Robin Ordan, LMT
11
Robin Ordan, LCSW
27
Organic Sleep at Sleep Etc
48
Julie Punishill
53
Ann Reeves
33
The Sacred Spirit
11
Salon 469
8
Salon Aponte
21
Saltana Cave
45
51
Salt of the Earth Healing Arts Sanctuary
12
Final Journey LLC
40
SeaBear Wild Salmon
72
Forza Five Holistic Fitness & Healing Center
33
Shalva Clinic/Ellen Lewis, ND
12
Debra Gibson, ND
49
Victoria Shaw, PhD
17
Hands and Paws Reiki for All
39
The SNO Company
51
Harbor Harvest
17
Soul Focus/Mela Rispoli
27
Sticks & Stones Farm
27
Sun Raven, the home of Slow Medicine
45
Hilda Swaby
53
Total Life Care Center
53
Embody the Sacred
33
Janet Ettele
25
Eyecare Associates
Healing Tree Wisdom/ Thea Litsios
9
Holistic Heaven/Kerry Hardy
15
Hunter Healing Hands
29
Insight Counseling Inspirit Healing Studios
3 16
Total Wellness Connect/ NA 2017 Directory
4
Jiiva Yoga and Wellness Center 18
Touch of Sedona
15
Keller Williams/Miale Team
50
Triple Goddess Remedies
11
Kure Spa
24
Beth Leas
53
Unity Center for Practical Spirituality
14
Darlene Alvarez Maddern
11
Valley Spirit Cooperative & Wellness Center
21
7
Wellness Institute/Marvin Schweitzer, ND
10
17
Westbrook Nature School
44
Westport Farmers Market
55
Westport Rolfing
46
Whole Fit Studio
18
Whole Health Thermography
25
World Concious Pact
37
The Yoga Shala
18
Mind Body Connection Pilates Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center
51
Money Coaching/Bill Donaldson 47 Naam Yoga CT
18
Natural Awakenings’ 2017 Natural Living Directory
13
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